If you are a heart-centered conscious co-creator, who is ready to amplify your soul’s gift in the world, and embody the next level of ease, flow and prosperity, then join us for this richly transformational retreat, where you will come away with an expanded awareness of your dream for yourself and the world and be ready to fully live it!
Being surrounded by the vastness of the luscious green jungle and breathtaking azure blue ocean waters has all of your senses brimming with pure joy and aliveness. As you step outside to greet the day, your bare feet feel the lush grass and the temperature is astonishingly perfect, The warmth feels good on your skin as the sun is just making its debut.
As you sit down on your own private terrace, the smell of the fresh orchids and the ocean air delights your senses. The chirping birds, delightful butterflies, and playful monkeys are all wonderful and welcome companions in the midst of your peaceful thoughts and inner stillness.
You start to feel an immense sense of gratitude and something powerful stirring within you that says now is the time to shine like you never have before with open hearted fierceness!
You know that NOW is the time to uplift, uplevel and unleash your collective energy and intention into the world!
So tell me, is this you?
- You yearn for experiences that are awe-inspiring, soul-stirring, heart-opening, and above of all… LIFE-changing.
- You know beyond a shadow of a doubt your energy is the expression of your spiritual evolution.
- You’re driven to BE the change you want to see in the world.
- You feel called to inspire and empower others.
- You naturally steer clear of mediocrity and conformity.
- You crave freedom and time to recharge and nurture your creativity.
- You desire adventure and the space to connect with other like-hearted creators to exchange ideas and possibilities.
- You have a deep desire to be the fullest expression of who you are so that you can whole-heartedly share your gifts to help co-create the world you know is possible.
If you answered YES to even one of these points, then this retreat is for you!
This Sounds Amazing...
What you will gain from this trip…
During our journey together, you’ll receive the keys to knowing, without a doubt, your innate value and worth so you can go full speed ahead with what you know you came here to do.
How awesome would it feel to fully trust in your creative vision because you’ve finally said good-bye to self-sabotaging beliefs?
When you have unwavering confidence in your vision, mission, and purpose there is nothing you cannot do! We cannot wait to share with you some of our favorite tools to help you fully believe that your wisdom and light are needed now more than ever!
We know you’re a heart-centered empath who has a lot to give! One of our specialties is helping you share your gifts in a way that doesn’t burn you out.
How awesome would it feel to move through life with flow, ease, and prosperity? Imagine what that would do for your visionary leadership!
During our retreat, you’ll understand, perhaps like you never have before, that you are ALWAYS supported. Deeply knowing this, you allow yourself to relax, open to the flow that is always there, and become a wide-open receiver for all your dreams.
Imagine being able to confidently embody your visionary leadership, knowing that your out-of-the-box ideas are exactly what’s needed now during this epic, evolutionary time!
We cannot wait to gather with all of you visionary leaders, to hear your far-sighted, creative, and imaginative ideas for the new world emerging. We’ll be creating an incredible vortex of energy to catalyze deep and joyful transformation. During our week together you will engage and connect with other conscious heart-centered leaders that will inspire, understand and support you.
I want to confidently embody my visionary leadership...
The Venue
We will be staying at La Cusinga, a retreat center immersed between the lush jungle and the vast ocean. Here you will be able to deeply connect to your embodied wisdom in the expansive, yet quiet & grounding atmosphere. Not only will you feel you are living Pura Vida (the pure life), you will feel as if you are in paradise! Every square inch promotes relaxation and well-being.
You will have your choice of four different room types, and every room feels like an extension of the natural elements channeling positive energy. You will feel like you have stepped into a sanctuary made just for you.
“The retreat provided thought provoking sessions and quiet space in a beautiful setting for purposeful time to examine my life’s path. I formed deeper connections with the retreat group and found my quiet support was welcomed and appreciated. I expected an “inner journey” and found a group journey as well. I am at peace and now have a clear path to make changes in my life for deeper happiness.”
– Trina O.
There is plenty for you to explore during your stay. You can check out the hiking trails that wind all around the property and end at the beach. Perhaps you feel like getting pampered at the spa with a deep tissue coffee scrub or a comforting massage.
There are two swimming areas for you to enjoy the cool refreshing waters of the pool during the heat of the day.
You will find a top-notch restaurant right on site that prepares organic, fresh, local and delightfully yummy meals.
“The biggest benefit of coming on this retreat was having the time, space and support to return to joy. This retreat gave me a safe and supportive environment to heal some very old wounds.”
– Jenny B.
The Cuisine
Healthy and vibrant meals are a big deal to us! Lucky for us local, organic, fresh and exquisite dishes are made right on site at the Aracari restaurant. You will enjoy healthy mouth watering gourmet Latin inspired cuisine, in an open-air dining area surrounded by beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife.
You can relax and enjoy the stunning sunset over the ocean with a glass of fine wine as the butterflies and hummingbirds dance around you. You will feel as though you are in paradise as unforgettable moments are made as the peace and tranquility set in.
You will be inspired by the restaurant’s chef, Gustavo, as he delights your taste buds with locally grown delicacies. “I attempt to give a twist to the food so that people will remember it when they leave,” Gustavo said. “In every dish I make, I want my food to transmit happiness, with satisfied customers leaving the table with a smile on their face.”
* The chef is happy to accommodate any dietary need with vegan, dairy free, gluten free and vegetarian options available.
I'm ready for Costa Rica...
Welcome to your Journey of Transformation!
Magic occurs when you retreat from your everyday life to a place of wonder and awe. A true container for transformation enfolds.
This retreat is your opportunity to reset yourself, cultivate your deep inner-wisdom, connect with your sacred heart and embrace your own magnificence. It’s 7 days of adventure, delicious food, culture, nature, rejuvenation, spirituality, and FUN!
This immersive experience will be dedicated to awakening the inner self to a higher consciousness and will include daily Kundalini yoga sessions, journal prompts, meditations, group sharing, Qigong and deep heartfelt connections. Each day we will be guiding you toward your inner peace, power and open hearted fierceness!
We’ll gather for an amazing dinner and then have our Welcome Circle to get grounded and centered in this tropical paradise.
After lunch, through experiential exercises, you’ll understand that keeping your frequency high, especially with joy, is by far the most important fuel to manifest your dreams. You’re invited to cap off the day with a sharing circle and an evening of dance as we celebrate and dance our collective visions and dreams into reality with a special playlist we’ve created with your input.
After lunch, we’ll gather for a “group-mind” experience – where everyone will be invited to generously share their expertise with YOU and your mission in the world! In the evening we’ll gather for our Sharing Circle.
The incredible local beauty and power of nature will be your guide. In the evening we’ll have our Sharing Circle to share the messages received from our hearts.
We’ll share tools to balance and strengthen the 5th chakra and take short hike to the beach to gather in a magical cave to collectively chant our dreams/visions into reality, and then do some qigong on the beach. After dinner, we’ll gather for a sharing circle.
When we return, we’ll have a nice break and then gather late afternoon to begin our closing circle. In the evening, we’ll have our final sharing circle.
What YOU are Going to Walk Away With…
Imagine having a deep knowing of how to fully embody your next level of visionary leadership so you can offer your gifts with ease, flow, prosperity, and confidence.
Your great big beautiful heart will be balanced and fortified with open-hearted fierce compassion so you can lead with inspiration, joy, and ample energy.
Imagine leaving the retreat with an expanded vision of who you are and what you’re capable of. At the retreat, you’ll experience the unlimited power of who you are and receive tools to help you maintain your expanded frequency after you leave the retreat.
You will feel a new charge of energy running through you and once the retreat is over, you’ll have tools and techniques to help you maintain your new frequency.
Take advantage of this rare opportunity to amplify your strengths, create new connections, and receive clarity about the next uplevel in your mission, purpose, and vision . . . all within an empowering and safe community of heart-based conscious co-creators.
You carry wisdom needed now. The truth is you’re a leader at your core. Your gifts of intuition, sensitivity, and vision are pioneering. You understand the power of this epic, evolutionary time!
Bonuses
You’ll also receive:
- Access to a Private Retreat Facebook Group – so we can connect pre-trip and then we’ll stay connected post-trip – and post our photos to share!
- Pre-Trip Group Call – you’ll have the chance to meet and greet everyone in the group, share your intention and learn how to best prepare yourself
- Post-Trip Group Call – we’ll gather to check in and remind each other how to tap into our fullest potential after we return home
Can you imagine how wonderful it would be if you could truly uplift your energy on a moment-to-moment basis? Wouldn’t it feel great to drop the sinking feelings of lack and unworthiness?
While we’re together, through heart coherence coaching and spirited group sharing, you’ll gain the tools you need to uplift and uplevel your energy, and you will know how to do it anytime, anywhere, on the go, even in the midst of chaos.
Wouldn’t it also feel great to know, without a doubt, you can lead with a fierce open heart?
It sure would! On this retreat, through Kundalini yoga, qigong, deep meditation, and invigorating forest adventures, you’ll release the emotions of stress and reboot your energy so you can return home feeling inspired, uplifted and awesomely alive!
How amazing would it feel to know that you can show care and compassion for others while maintaining your own energy 100% instead of feeling drained?
On this retreat, you’ll learn the power of neutral compassion and why it’s a superpower for empathic visionaries. During our journey, through guided meditations, special ceremonies and grounding communion with nature, we’ll show you how to embody your own deep, powerful presence that will engage and uplift others whenever you’re around!
“Because of this trip I felt reconnected to parts of myself that been dormant without having to ‘think’ about it. I have a template for how to walk in the world of chaos without becoming a part of it. I remembered that I am the sculptor of my life experience, this retreat reminded me that I hold the chisel.”
– Katrina F.
Yes! I’m ready to dive into this amazing adventure!
The Location
There’s something about the magical energy of this location that will inspire you and your imagination. It is the perfect place to gather, amplify our collective energy, and empower each other to soar in life with open hearted-fierceness!
Costa Rica is known worldwide for its biodiversity, both in species and ecosystems. It has even been called “the happiest country in the world” “a paradise for peace” and a “beacon for environmental stewardship.” Uvita, Costa Rica has been called the “Perfect relaxed beach destination”.
“Pura Vida” is a term you will hear often repeated in this country. It translates to “pure life” or “simple life”. In Costa Rica it goes beyond a saying, and is embodied as a way of life. Costa Rica is very rich culturally, and Costa Ricans are known as “Ticos”, Ticos have a very relaxed, simple way of looking at life, an innate ability to be present in the moment, reflect gratitude to all they have, and not worry or stress about the negative.
What’s Included
- Pre-trip Preparation Call to have the chance to meet everyone in the group, share your intentions for the retreat, and learn how to best prepare for this epic experience
- Daily Group Kundalini Yoga Sessions, Qigong, Wisdom Teachings & Nightly Powerful Share Circles, including but not limited to guided meditations, chanting circles, and ceremony.
- All Meals: Breakfast every morning (7 total), Mid-day Meal/Lunch (8 total), & Dinner every evening (8 total)
- LUXURY Accommodations at La Cusinga Eco Lodge. These are double occupancy, and yes there are 2 beds in the rooms. SINGLE OCCUPANCY is an option if you choose to room alone for an extra cost.
- Transportation to and from SJO airport; November 30th & December 7th (designated times only!)
- Whale & Dolphin watching expedition
- Excursion to one of the magical caves
What’s Not Included
- Your airfare
- Alcoholic beverages
- Other non-included items would include souvenir shopping, personal phone calls, extra spa services, personal taxis, laundry, tips for room service.
- Personal, medical or trip cancellation insurance
Your Guides
You have probably heard the sentiment “fake it until you make it”, but walking the heart path cannot be faked or phoned in. It is a conscious path, and as I learned to follow my heart it led me to a more fulfilling life.
I feel like I have led many types of lives I am a war veteran, and a corporate world “walk out” (ethically and peacefully, of course.) I never quite felt like I was living my truth in those roles. Back then my default mode was depression, I was rarely present, and I became addicted to stress, which morphed into substance abuse and other negative habits. Additionally, I had to watch close members of my family transition into a life of dis-ease.
It was heartbreaking, and I felt like I could not help them as they slowly degraded. I decided to be the change in my family that I wanted to see and to commit to a life of health and vitality. After my dad passed away in 2017, I stepped into the role of yoga teacher to help others live healthier and more mindful lives, and that was just the beginning!
My opening to the magic of life started when I committed myself to intentional transformation with a focus on wellness. I started to breakthrough my blocks (and addictions) when I started meditating and practicing Kundalini Yoga.
My negative habits started falling away, along with negative people in my life. I felt a sense of renewal for the first time. I started to make different choices, and my internal environment started to be reflected in my external environment. Synchronicities started to occur, I became clearer, focused and started to redirect my energy into a life I love to live! You can too!
As mentioned, I am a decorated war veteran, I also hold a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Sustainable Management, and an Associate’s degree in Supervisory Management. I am a 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance with 400 hours in Kundalini Yoga Teacher training specifically. Additionally, I am certified by HeartMath as a Mentor & Coach.
I step forward with enthusiasm, clarity, and commitment to help you become the best version of yourself! Let’s do this!
When I began sharing my gifts as an international Greenpeace campaigner, I felt like I had found my path. But while there, my entire world revolved around the mantra of “work, work, work” and the mission to “give, give, give.” I was learning the hard way.
After ten years of this exciting but draining routine, I left totally burnt out. I couldn’t sustain my own energy, much less believe in my ability to contribute to a more harmonious and sustainable world. Cue up the inevitable personal identity crisis. I was left asking, “Who am I?”
Something needed to change. To own my gifts, I embarked on a healing journey to clear my doubts and insecurities. I released self-limiting beliefs handed down by my parents, society, and past lifetimes. I learned what it meant to believe in and stand in my own light.
Today I am an international healer, coach, and spiritual guide. I am known as the creator of the Wise Woman Initiation, a unique way to activate ancient codes of wisdom held within you. (We all have a Wise Woman Within, no matter how we identify.)
In my business called Dare to Shine, our specialty is helping visionary empaths attain unshakable confidence so they can live their dream of owning a wildly successful healing business. As a certified soul coach and certified Akashic Records reader, I love helping you own your vision, power, and purpose so you can live the life you were meant to . . . one that brings you great joy and prosperity, without burning out!
Today, one of my greatest joys is public speaking and facilitating transformation through group experiences, no small feat for someone who was afraid to speak!
I am grateful to live in an 88-acre intentional community in northern Michigan. This land occupies the ancestral land of the Anishinabek known as the three fires confederacy of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi. I share this land with chickens, goats, and nine families. Together, we placed 45 of those acres into a conservation easement.
Jess and I are so excited and cannot wait to help you uplift, uplevel, and unleash your dreams and visions with open-hearted and fierce compassion!
“Joan is a generous and insightful guide. She met me where I am and encouraged me to trust myself and give myself Permission to Be. She opened up a path of light for me today.”
– August B.
“Joan’s energy is one of love and compassion, and this is not only felt during our time together, but before and after our sessions as well. She has an extensive tool box of methods to guide and empower, and readily shares all she knows.”
– Karen C.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this retreat for me?
What is the itinerary?
What is included in my registration?
Your room for 7 nights. All meals; breakfasts, lunches and dinners. Transportation to/from the airport at designated times. All entrance fees for special events. Personalized coaching. Daily Kundalini Yoga sessions, Qigong, and meditation sessions.
I need a roommate – how do I arrange that?
Can I bring my kids/partner?
Where do I fly into?
Is there transportation from the airport to the retreat venue?
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Is it safe to travel to Costa Rica?
Do I have to be vaccinated to go to Costa Rica?
Tourists visiting Costa Rica are requested to abide by the sanitary protocols in place when participating in tourist activities throughout the country.
What is the weather like?
What do I pack?
- Your Passport
- Yoga mat is optional – resort has some to borrow if needed
- Flashlight or headlamp
- ONLY biodegradable soaps, shampoos, etc.
- Slip on shoes/flip flops
- Hiking/walking shoes (closed toed)
- Sunscreen (bio-degradable)
- Sun Hat
- Feminine Hygiene Products (Tampons are difficult to find in CR)
- Light jacket or wrap for the unusual chilly night
- Journal/Diary and pen
- Bug repellant (biodegradable)
- Non-disposable water bottle (metal or glass recommended)
- Cash (U.S. dollars are accepted in Costa Rica)
- Computer and cellphones are safe to bring, although we can never guarantee against theft
- Please, NO disposable plastic bottles or bags
LEAVE YOUR VALUABLES AT HOME!
Do I need travelers’ insurance?
How can I offset the impact of my traveling by plane?
What is your cancellation policy?
Still have a question?
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