Michelle Fajkus is a Texas-born, Guatemala-based yoga teacher, retreat leader, writer, and sacred Mayan calendar guide. She has been practicing yoga since 1993, teaching since 2002, and leading retreats since 2010.
In 2012, Michelle made her home on the shores of Lake Atitlán in the Guatemalan highlands, where she began a deep study of Mayan cosmovision that has shaped her teaching ever since. She is a trained interpreter of Mayan fire ceremonies and offers personal Mayan day sign readings in addition to her yoga work.
Michelle weaves together yoga, mindfulness, ceremony, and the wisdom of the sacred Mayan calendar into transformative retreat experiences. Her classes blend hatha, vinyasa, yin, pranayama, meditation, and deep relaxation in a way that is intentional, accessible, and grounded — resonating with students at every level.
Friday 4:00–5:45pm
Weaving Yoga Asana, Pranayama, and the Sacred Mayan Calendar
A practical workshop introducing the 20 energies of the Sacred Mayan Calendar and how to integrate them into daily yoga practice. As humans, we carry all of these aspects within us and can draw on them to connect with the elements of nature, the cardinal directions, and our own gifts and challenges, in alignment with the energy of each day. Through guided discussion and an active asana practice woven with pranayama and meditation, you’ll leave with a fresh lens for understanding your practice — and yourself.
Intensity of Practice: 6-7 – All Levels
20% Discussion, 50% Asana, 10% Pranayama, 10% Meditation
Saturday 4:15–6:00pm
Leading a Yoga Retreat: What It Takes
A discussion-based workshop for yoga teachers considering — or already leading — retreats, whether domestic or abroad. Drawing on real experience leading retreats internationally, we’ll cover how to choose the right facility, price your retreat appropriately, market it effectively, and navigate the logistics of bringing students to a new country. Expect an open conversation and plenty of room for Q&A, so come with your own questions about what it really takes to plan and run a successful retreat.
Intensity of Practice: 1 – Yoga teachers
60% Discussion, 20% Asana, 10% Pranayama, 10% Meditation