On the Pacific coast of Nicaragua, where the pace of life slows and the ocean sets the rhythm, Akaru Residency has taken root. Founded by Isabella Arguello, the beachfront retreat in Poneloya sits at the intersection of wellness, art, and conscious living. The name akaru means "to illuminate" — a fitting foundation for a space designed to help people reconnect with what matters most. Below, Isabella shares the story behind Akaru.
How did you discover yoga, and what led you from student to teacher to founding Akaru?
I discovered yoga while I was in college. It wasn't easy at first; I would try to skip most of class because I couldn't even hold a downward-facing dog. But something inside kept calling me back. Over time, I began to notice subtle yet profound changes: my mood shifted, my reactions softened, and I started to respond to life with more ease.
I wanted to share that feeling with others, so I began teaching family and friends who supported me and encouraged me to keep going. At the time, I was unhappy in my corporate job and craving a life that felt more aligned with who I was. I started teaching part-time while still working full-time, and little by little, yoga became more than a practice; it became a path.
In 2024, I decided to fully commit to that path. I left my corporate career and took a sabbatical, traveling to Greece for artist residencies, to Bali for a yoga teacher training, and to Barcelona for a drawing course. Nothing went exactly as planned, but life has a beautiful way of guiding us where we're meant to be. That journey led me to open this space — a retreat where I can share my love for yoga, art, and conscious living. It's a place for people to disconnect from the noise, reconnect with themselves, and realign with what truly matters.
How would you describe the energy of Akaru, and what do you want people to feel when they arrive?
The energy here is grounding, warm, and real. It's inspired by the simple life, where movement, community, and creativity come together naturally. When people walk in, I want them to feel like they can exhale. To feel seen, welcomed, and connected to themselves, to nature, and to the community around them.
What is Akaru's mission?
Our mission is to create a space where wellness, art, and conscious living meet. Akaru exists to remind people that healing and creativity can coexist, that movement, breath, and stillness all have a place in our daily rhythm. We want to nurture a community that lives more slowly and more intentionally, guided by presence and purpose.
What do you hope students take away from their time at Akaru?
I want them to leave feeling more connected to themselves. Yoga is not just about the poses. It's about softening into who you are, listening deeply, and finding clarity through movement and stillness. My hope is that everyone who practices here leaves with a lighter heart and a clearer sense of what truly matters to them.
What has the early chapter of Akaru looked like?
Akaru opened in late 2024, and from the start, the vision has been to host both artist retreats and yoga retreats. The artist retreats offer time and space for creative exploration and inspiration, while the yoga retreats focus on movement, mindfulness, and clean eating. Both share the same foundation, one leaning toward artistic expression, the other toward embodiment and flow.
A key moment that shaped our growth was our first retreat, which exceeded all expectations. From the incredible people who joined us to the local brands that collaborated — offering natural, locally made products — it was a beautiful reminder of what can happen when community and intention come together. It set the tone for everything we hope to continue building at Akaru.
Why did you choose Manduka as your equipment partner?
I chose Manduka because it's been part of my yoga journey from the very beginning. When I started practicing regularly — sometimes two or three times a day — I decided to invest in a Manduka mat. Five years later, it's still with me. The quality, durability, and grip have never let me down.
As I began leading retreats and creating spaces for others to practice, I knew I wanted to offer that same level of trust and excellence. Especially practicing by the beach, I needed equipment that could stand up to the elements while maintaining the integrity of the practice. Manduka represents everything I value in yoga: consistency, quality, and a deep respect for the journey.
Try the Class: Sunset Unwind
A calming, down-regulating evening practice designed to close the day and ease the body into rest. Isabella guides you through slow, supported movement to release tension, quiet the mind, and transition from effort into stillness.
The Playlist: Manduka x Akaru Residency
Isabella curated this playlist to carry practitioners from the energy of the day into the quiet of the evening. The music moves like the practice itself: from warmth and rhythm into stillness and breath.
Connect with Akaru Residency
Website: www.akaruresidency.com
Instagram: @akaru.residency
Location: Poneloya, Nicaragua
Interested in bringing Manduka into your retreat, resort, or wellness space? Learn more about our Hotel & Spa Equipment Program and how to partner with us.
