Guide of Tradition and Temachtiani
María Guadalupe Retiz Yáñez, known in the tradition as Grandmother Tonalmitl, was born in the state of Guanajuato and has lived in Mexico City since her childhood. At 81 years old, she identifies as Mexica Chichimeca, bearer of "me cate en la frente," an expression that symbolizes the living ancestral memory present in her being.
Since the age of 27, she began her journey in the Mexicayotl tradition, guided by her husband, Grandfather Cenyaotl, with whom she shared a deep dedication to the rescue and preservation of ancestral teachings. Together, they studied the Borgia and Boturini codices in depth and promoted Mexica dance and spirituality.
In 1992, she participated in the founding of the Dance of the Moon Xochimeztli, a ceremony based on visions and studies from the Borgia Codex, aimed at raising women's awareness about caring for Mother Earth and dignifying their path through respect, love, and harmony.
Currently, Grandmother Tonalmitl is the guide of the Mother Circle of the Dance of the Moon Xochimeztli, considered the largest in the world, with nearly a thousand women participants. She has established over 30 women's circles in countries such as the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Argentina, Chile, Austria, France, and in cities in the United States like Houston and Austin, as well as in various locations in Mexico, including Querétaro, Milpa Alta, Nayarit, Cancún, Morelia, Puebla, and Oaxaca.
In addition to her ceremonial work, she is recognized as a specialist in the interpretation of codices, particularly the Tonalamatl, and is a fervent advocate for the Rights of Mother Earth. Her participation in international events, such as the Environmental Talks in the Legislature of Mendoza, Argentina, highlights her commitment to environmental awareness and the role of women in caring for the planet.
Grandmother Tonalmitl continues to be a central figure in the transmission of ancestral wisdom, inspiring generations of women to reconnect with their essence and to walk with love and respect towards life and Mother Earth.