In her book, Chakra Gardens: Opening the Senses of the Soul, author Carol Cumes writes about the power of the plants and cultural lore that thread through Peru’s Sacred Valley: “In the Andes, Mother Earth is referred to as Pachamama. Throughout the world, healers, shamans and sages hear Pachamama’s cry to restore the planet to balance. ‘First heal the world, by healing yourself, ‘ She whispers, while extending an invitation to mankind to return to Her gardens. Go where Nature draws you. Breathe in the energies. Inhale the fragrant perfumes. Listen deeply, with your eyes closed, as Pachamama works with you to provide all you need.” Cumes is the founder of Willka T’ika, a beautiful eco-retreat near Machu Picchu, pictured. Willka T’ika features gourmet vegetarian dining, authentic Andean healing arts, tranquil yoga studios and meditation cottages, in a region considered by the Incas to be sacred geography. willkatika.com