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!

Waking up to the call of the tropical birds and howler monkeys, you remember your own vibrant wildness inside, as a spark has been re-ignited. You already feel the magic of the day unfolding as your spirit becomes truly engaged.

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…

Wouldn’t it feel amazing to embody your next level of leadership and success because you have unshakable confidence in who you are and freely express your gifts?

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!

Imagine having unbounded energy and feeling wholly inspired because you know you’re in alignment with what you came here to do?

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.

From your own private balcony, you will be able to watch birds and monkeys play every morning. Imagine having your coffee while enjoying expansive views of the rich green rain forest and the vast turquoise ocean.

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.

 

You will experience the term “Well-being” on a whole new level as the healthy balance of mind, body, spirit and nature all merge into the truest expression of Pura Vida.  La Cusinga is the ideal place to activate your greatest expression and honor your deepest purpose.

“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!

Something amazing happens when a group of like-minded, like-hearted people come together to share energy, support one another and connect on a deep level. Friendships form easily and often last a lifetime.

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!

You have arrived at La Cusinga, our beautiful retreat center! All you have to do is relax and settle in.

We’ll gather for an amazing dinner and then have our Welcome Circle to get grounded and centered in this tropical paradise.

 

 

We’ll start the day with Kundalini Yoga to nurture your spirit and fire up your dreams.  We want to know your dreams for yourself and the world! So after breakfast you’re invited to share your vision, dreams and personal intention for the week.

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.

We’ll start the day with inspired movement to amplify your 3rd chakra and release any self-limiting beliefs. After breakfast, we’ll share some of our favorite tools to help us get out of our heads and into our hearts.

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.

 

We’ll start the day connecting to the unlimited intelligence of your heart. In the morning, we’ll share tools to help you balance, strengthen and fortify your heart center. After lunch you’ll have the whole afternoon where you’re invited to go on a mini-vision quest into the intelligently vast and loving nature of your heart.

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 start the day connecting to our 5th chakras. When fully activated, open, and balanced, it’s easy to stand in the highest expression of our personal power.

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.

 

We’ll start the day activating our 6th chakras. In the morning, we’ll gather to discuss the highest vision for ourselves and how to nurture this vision after we return home. In the afternoon, you’ll be guided on a powerful meditation to help you fully embody and anchor into every cell of your being the truth of who you are. In the evening we’ll come together to set our intention for tomorrow’s Whale and Dolphin Tour in one of the most biologically diverse habitats in Costa Rica.

 

We’ll start the day with Kundalini Yoga and Meditation to activate our 7th chakras. Then we’ll embark on the Whale and Dolphin Tour. Whale spirit can teach us the balance of diving deep within ourselves, connecting to Spirit, and then expressing ourselves fully in the world in order to live our true purpose. The Dolphin Spirit teaches us the power of self-love, joy, and so much more! You’ll have the option to snorkel.

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.

* Please note, itinerary is subject to change.

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

Hi I’m Jessica! I am where I am today because of my love for well-being! I truly believe that being well brings rewards in every aspect of my life!

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!

Hi, I’m Joan! Like you, I’ve always been a sensitive, empathic type with big, bold dreams for myself and the world. Early on, though, I was overcome with anxiety and self-doubt, so much so that even though I knew what I had to say was important, I literally couldn’t open my mouth. Talk about frustrating! I knew I had a message, gifts to share, and I deeply wanted to be of service.

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?

This retreat is right for you if you are ready to unleash, uplevel and uplift a brand-new version of your life as your highest self, awakening to your full potential!

What is the itinerary?

You will spend 7 nights at the beautiful La Cusinga Eco-Lodge. Each day will include Kundalini yoga sessions, meditation, qigong, ceremony, personal coaching, fabulous meals and plenty of down time for yourself. Other special events include a Whale and Dolphin Tour where you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel, a short hike to one of the magical caves for chanting, and a personal journey that will change your life!

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?

We will match you with a roommate if you have not made previous arrangements. If we cannot match you with a roommate, we will switch you to a single occupancy room which you will be required to pay for, however if you sign up early you will most likely get your desired choice.

Can I bring my kids/partner?

As much as we love kids, this retreat is for adults only. Partners are welcome if they are attending the retreat.

Where do I fly into?

Fly into San Jose International Airport Costa Rica

Juan Santamaria Airport (SJO)

Is there transportation from the airport to the retreat venue?

Yes, transportation will be provided from San Jose International Airport at on November 30th and return to the airport on December 7th.

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes, the restaurant on site can accommodate several dietary restrictions, including gluten free, vegetarian, vegan, and other request.

Is it safe to travel to Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is a very friendly country. We will be monitoring the pandemic response and updating all participants accordingly.

Costa Rica Entry Requirements (COVID-19).

Do I have to be vaccinated to go to Costa Rica?

No, the Government of Costa Rica does not require tourists entering by air, land or sea to present a negative COVID-19 test, nor quarantine upon arrival.

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?

In November into early December, the weather will be pleasant and warm. Expect 70 – 80-degree temps during the day and around 60 degrees in the evenings. This time of year can be humid due to the end of the rainy season.

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?

I would highly recommend you purchase a traveler’s insurance that includes Trip Cancellation and Medical Insurance. Worldnomads.com has a standard plan starting around $70.00 that covers things such as emergency accident & sickness medical expenses, emergency evacuations, trip cancellations (would not include non-refundable deposit), lost baggage, trip delays and other mishaps. You can get a quote in minutes on their website.

How can I offset the impact of my traveling by plane?

You can purchase “Carbon Offsets” for your trip to neutralize your carbon footprint.

What is your cancellation policy?

A $500 deposit is required at time of registration. Deposits are refundable until 120 days before departure, August 2, 2023. Less than 120 days (August 3, 2023 or after) before departure deposits are 100% non refundable. Any cancellation made between February 1, 2023 and September 1, 2023 will result in a loss of 50% of the trip price. Any cancellation made between: November 1 and the trip departure will result in a total loss of funds. We reserve the right to cancel the trip if it is not meeting the trip minimum (if we do so your deposit is refunded in full). Trip cancellation insurance is always recommended whenever making travel plans. You can use our suggested Travel Guard Insurance online and choose from several policy options.

Still have a question?

Reach out to me at Jessica@newmoonyogastudio.com – OR  joan@joandargo.com – We’re here to help!

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