The Imiloa Institute, Puntarenas Province, Savegre de Aguirre, Costa Rica
Up to 15 in group
October 15 - 20, 2024
About this Retreat
Laura Weber Garrison, Ph.D., is an author, educator, and holistic health counselor who specializes in trauma recovery.
Dr. Garrison holds a Ph.D. in Holistic Health, is Certified as a Yoga Therapist by the International Association of Yoga Therapists, is a Yoga Alliance Certified Educational Professional (YACEP), an E-500RYT, a past educator for AFAA, IDEA, and ACE, and is Board-certified by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. As a Trauma Recovery Specialist, Laura has over two decades of experience working with challenged and at-risk populations. In addition to facilitating Retreats and workshops, Laura sees clients in her private offices in Sarasota and St Petersburg, Florida. Laura specializes in holistic, integrative yoga-based therapeutics with an emphasis on restorative modalities and is also the author of numerous training manuals and publications. Her most recent book, Damaged Rudders: Healing Trauma through Yoga, Creativity, and the Connections to our Divinity, is due in late autumn, 2023.
Details of this retreat
THE EMPOWERED TRANSITIONS RETREAT to RECALIBRATE: UPLEVEL PROGRAM
Facilitated by Trauma Recovery Specialist, Laura Weber Garrison, Ph.D., The Empowered Transitions Retreat to Recalibrate: Uplevel Program is the "Next Step" in the Empowered Transitions Retreat Programs. Merging some of the best of the world's finest personal development programs with psychotherapeutic-based accelerated learning, this program is all about positive, sustained self-growth in a safe, secure, supportive, eco-luxury environment.
Please note that this Retreat is designed for those who have either participated in a prior Retreat to Recalibrate with Dr. Garrison, are currently part of the Better Wellness Naturally family, and/or have a background in healing, wellness, and coaching.
The Empowered Transitions Retreat to Recalibrate: Uplevel Program is part group therapy, part individual work, and part Mastermind group. Incorporating many aspects of psychotherapy, accelerated personal development, and comprehensive holistic healing techniques, the Program is experiential, fun, transformational and, if you commit yourself to fully immersing yourself in the Program and doing the work, can be incredibly life-changing. It is truly a 'retreat within a retreat' with some of the very best support in the retreat industry.
We intentionally limit the number of participants to honor the privacy and cohesiveness of the group, the Program, and the Retreat experience.
THE LEARNINGS OF THE EMPOWERED TRANSITIONS RETREAT PROGRAMS:
Why you're stuck or stagnant and what the next best steps are
Somatic integration - what it really means for you
Why the body takes over - and how to mitigate the hijacking
The impact and effects of trauma on the brain- and how to best navigate the challenges
The relationship between trauma, chronic pain, and various illnesses
Reconnecting with the body’s intelligence through restorative yoga and mindfulness practices
Relearning to trust the ‘body’s barometer’-- and yourself!
Breaking free from destructive coping mechanisms and unhealthy patterns
Letting go of shame, guilt, toxic feelings, chronic sadness, and anger
Shifting into a life of peace, happiness, and loving connections
Setting big goals and moving forward with transitions
The power and necessity of FUN and PLAY in the healing process
THE PRE-PROGRAM: PREPARATION and PRE-RETREAT SUPPORT
We'll work with you ahead of time to help map your Intentions for your time in retreat!
The Pre-Retreat homework and Pre-Program expectations are rather extensive and there are several written assignments. You'll also be meeting with the Facilitator in person, via phone, or by Zoom for a Clarity Session before admittance to the Retreat Program.
We want you to dive in and get the most out of your Program and your Retreat experience.
Not only will this Pre-Program help our team better assist you in integrating your learnings while 'on campus,' it will also help you to gain greater insight and will make navigating your transitions Post-Retreat easier and more productive.
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT
All Retreats also include the option for extended pre and post-counseling and small-group coaching at a discounted rate.
WORKSHOPS and PLAYTIMES WITHIN THE RETREAT PROGRAM
We'll work with habit loops, patterns, trauma, emotional regulation, behavioral changes, somatic integration, and the sustainable formation of new ways of being. You'll also be given a Workbook and a binder (and a great swag bag of goodies!) We're here for you before and after the retreat!
SOMATIC RECONNECTION, and INTENTIONAL CREATIONS
The construction--and reconstruction-- of your life story from past, to present, to future is pivotal in creating a new level of self-understanding. While we cannot change the past, we can, indeed, change our subconscious and somatic responses to those matters which no longer serve us and begin intentionally living a purpose-filled and purpose-driven life.
RESTORATIVE YOGA and MEDITATION
Our Retreats include daily practices to help improve your ability to navigate your day-to-day life outside of the Retreat. New to yoga, mindfulness, and meditation? No problem! Dr. Garrison breaks the practices down into super easy-to-follow components. New to personal development programs? We'll make it easy for you. Dr. Garrison takes an "education forward" stance and makes learning fun.
NOURISHMENT
Gourmet plant-based meals, snacks, and beverages throughout the Retreat. As a participant in The Empowered Transitions Retreat: Uplevel, you'll also have unlimited access to the Wellness Bar for incredible local coffee and signature smoothies if you wish.
RITUALS, EXPERIENCES, ACTIVITIES, CONNECTIONS
We'll incorporate some amazing experiences including extended Sound Healing sessions, a Blue Clay Waterfall experience, and other immersions, activities, and ceremonies. We'll also have an incredible closing ceremony. Our itinerary also includes fabulous multi-course, plated meals, mocktails, and very special occasions.
WEATHER and TERRAIN
Join us for an unforgettable retreat experience--a "retreat within a retreat" in Costa Rica, where the weather and terrain offer the perfect backdrop for your rejuvenation journey.
Costa Rica's climate boasts warm days and slightly cooler evenings, providing a welcome escape from the heat. With temperatures reaching highs around 85°F and lows around 75°F, you'll find the conditions ideal for relaxation and exploration.
Our retreat takes place during the "winter" season, with intermittent rainfall in the late afternoons and optimal outdoor adventure times in the mornings. Nestled in the breathtaking Savegre mountains, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rugged terrain while surrounded by pristine nature.
Prepare to traverse jungle paths adorned with varying inclines, stairs, rocks, and exposed tree roots. We recommend wearing sturdy footwear such as sneakers or strapped sandals like Chacos, Keens, or Tevas for stability and comfort. While the trails cater to a range of fitness levels, a basic level of physical capability is recommended to fully appreciate the experience.
During your stay at Imiloa, expect to be embraced by nature's elements, including gentle breezes, geckos, lizards, and yes, even the jungle insects! Immerse yourself in the incredible symphony of wildlife sounds, from the playful chatter of monkeys to the melodies of tropical birds and the soothing hum of cicadas.
POST-RETREAT SUPPORT and COMMUNITY
We'll have a Group follow-up Zoom meeting after our Retreat to further integrate the learnings and reconnect with one another. All Retreats also include the option for ongoing telehealth group coaching at a discounted rate.
Continuing Education Units for Healthcare Workers and Yoga Professionals!
For Yoga Alliance registered teachers, 35 hours of continuing education are available with this retreat.
** PAYMENT PLANS ARE AVAILABLE-- PLEASE ASK!**
TRAVEL and ARRIVAL
Imiloa provides a seamless, stress-free arrival experience for all of its guests. From the moment you arrive at SJO, you'll be greeted by their helpful concierge team who will guide you through customs and bring you to a private aircraft. The short 25-minute flight to Imiloa is just the beginning of your luxury experience.
Upon landing in Quepos, Imiloa's friendly team will be waiting for you with spacious LUX SUVs to transport you up the mountain to Imiloa. Sit back, relax, and take in the breathtaking views during the under-30-minute drive.
We want to make sure you have all the necessary documents for your trip, so please remember to bring a valid passport that's valid at least six months after the date of travel. Three weeks prior to your departure, please provide us with your up-to-date flight information so we can prepare for your arrival.
We'll coordinate with you insofar as arrivals to the SJO airport and subsequent transfer to the Imiloa Institute once you are signed up for the retreat. You'll have direct contact info for our Welcome Home Team at Imiloa to further answer any questions you may have.
If you're interested in extending your trip, Imiloa is happy to recommend tours and sights to see in the area.
We can't wait to welcome you to Imiloa and provide you with an unforgettable high-class experience!