Why AYANUKA
AYANUKA is a space for movement, sound, and stillness.
The name is inspired by sounds connected to spirit and self.
“Aya” is associated with spirit or soul in Indigenous traditions, while “Nuka” reflects the self.
Together, AYANUKA represents a connection between both — a return to balance, presence, and inner awareness.
The symbol of the three moons reflects cycles — of growth, release, and renewal.
Our Mission
To create a space where people can reconnect with themselves through movement, sound, and shared experience.
AYANUKA brings together practices that support both grounding and expansion — from yoga and meditation to sound healing and conscious gatherings.
WHO WE ARE
AYANUKA was founded by Yalisa, bringing together years of experience in movement, music, and holistic practices.
Created with the support of close collaborators and a growing community, AYANUKA continues to evolve as a space for connection, creativity, and presence.
The story behind AYANUKA
AYANUKA was born from a journey of movement, music, and exploration.
Yalisa’s path began in the world of dance, training in classical ballet at the conservatory and later performing with dance companies internationally. This foundation led her to travel and work in different parts of the world, deepening her connection to movement as a form of expression and presence.
She lived in Spain for over 17 years, where she created and ran her own yoga and movement studio. During this time, she guided classes in yoga, barre, and dance, while also offering sound healing sessions, kirtan, meditation practices, and ecstatic dance experiences.
Alongside her teaching, she continued expanding into holistic practices. She studied Thai massage in Thailand and worked as a massage therapist in Spain, and later trained as a Reiki practitioner. Her approach naturally evolved into a more integrated way of working with the body, energy, and sound.
With a deep connection to music, she also developed her work as a DJ and music producer, studying music production and creating her own sound as part of her practice and expression.
She has also spent time in retreat and meditation centers around the world, immersing herself in different practices and approaches that continue to inspire her work today.
She also created her own yoga clothing brand, reflecting a passion for aesthetics, movement, and conscious design.
The move to Bocas del Toro marked a new chapter. Surrounded by nature, ocean, and a slower rhythm of life, AYANUKA began to take shape as a space that brings together all these elements.
Today, AYANUKA reflects this journey — a place where movement, sound, and stillness meet, and where people can reconnect with themselves in a natural and open environment.
What began as a personal journey has evolved into a space to share, connect, and grow with others.