Finding Balance (and the Best Food Ever) at Jane Bauer’s Huatulco Retreat

If you ever find yourself in Huatulco, Mexico — this beautiful, peaceful corner of the world where ocean, jungle, and sunshine meet — you need to know about Jane Bauer.

Jane is one of those rare people who seems to do everything with heart. She hosted me during my stay for her yoga retreat, and from the moment I arrived, I could feel the warmth, kindness, and passion she brings into everything she touches. Whether it’s leading yoga, creating the most delicious meals, or managing her many creative businesses, Jane does it all with a grounded, soulful energy that instantly makes you feel at home.

The Retreat: Calm, Connection, and Ocean Views

Her Yoga Huatulco retreat is honestly something special. Picture waking up to the sound of waves, practicing yoga on an oceanfront terrace, and sharing meals that feel like they were made just for you. Each day had this perfect balance — mindful movement, deep relaxation, connection with others, and moments of reflection that felt effortless.

Jane has this calming energy that keeps you present, but she’s also real and down-to-earth — we laughed, we shared stories, we ate so well. One of my favorite memories was a temazcal ceremony where our experience was guided by a shaman and including an emotional release that I had never experienced before. It felt like everything I came for — rest, clarity, inspiration — arrived all at once.

The Food: Pure Love on a Plate

Let’s talk about the food — because wow. Jane is an incredible cook (and that’s no surprise once you realize she also runs Café Juanita, Huatulco Food Tours, and a cooking school!). Every meal at the retreat felt like an experience — colorful, flavorful, nourishing, and made with so much love.

One day she served tortillas smothered in black bean sauce, filled with sautéed spinach and topped with crema, avocado, onion, queso and scrambled eggs that I’m still thinking about. Everything she makes feels vibrant and intentional — you can taste the connection to the local ingredients and the people who grow them.

A Woman of Many Passions

Outside of her retreats, Jane somehow manages to run Café Juanita (a must-visit spot if you’re in town), organize Huatulco Food Tours, host wine and food pairing events with her Salt Company, and publish The Eye Magazine, a thoughtful English-language publication all about life and culture in Mexico.

She’s not just an entrepreneur — she’s a creator, a connector, and someone who builds community everywhere she goes. Whether through food, travel, writing, or yoga, she has this gift for bringing people together in the most authentic way.

What I Took Home

Leaving the retreat, I didn’t just feel relaxed — I felt renewed. There’s something about being in Jane’s world that reminds you what really matters: slowing down, eating good food, laughing often, moving your body, and connecting with people who fill you up.

If you ever get the chance to join one of her retreats or simply stop by Café Juanita, do it. You’ll feel cared for, inspired, and probably leave with a full heart and a very happy stomach.

Thank you, Jane, for your warmth, your hospitality, and your magic in the kitchen. My time with you in Huatulco is something I’ll always carry with me — sunshine, sea breeze, yoga mats, and all.