Move mindfully, awaken fully: Transformative movement experiences to energize body, heart and spirit
Melanie says, "The amazing view from the yoga platform is enough in itself to calm and uplift you but the whole experience was great. The yoga teaching was even better than I'd expected." See more
Russet says, "My husband and I recently returned from a 3 day stay at the retreat. We were there between programs, so were there to spend a relaxing few days. Everything was better than we had anticipated." See more
Sarah says, "Would highly recommend Bella retreats. Everything was planned perfectly! Hotels were amazing! Excursions (especially Balos beach) were incredible. Would love to take this trip again!" See more
Alison says, "The accommodations were comfortable and the food excellent! I enjoyed the pace of the retreat which left room for reflection/alone time. The lectures were thought provoking." See more
Odette says, "The Podcast from Hear was an audio storytelling program at Hollyhock. How much honesty and strength a circle of women can have, multiplied by the setting. We shared and grew, our group of diverse identities and experiences." See more
Women's retreats create dedicated spaces for deep restoration, connection, and transformation away from daily demands. Modern retreats often blend ancient wisdom practices like meditation and ritual with evidence-based approaches including somatic experiencing, breath work, and therapeutic movement. At luxury venues in Bali or Costa Rica, participants might start their mornings with sunrise yoga, followed by journaling circles and afternoon workshops on topics ranging from ancestral healing to authentic leadership.
The magic often happens in those unscripted moments between scheduled activities. Picture women sprawled on cushions sharing life stories over herbal tea, or walking meditation paths through tropical gardens processing profound insights. Some retreats focus on specific themes - grief work, creative expression, or life transitions. Others embrace a more fluid structure allowing space for spontaneous sisterhood, tears, and belly laughs.
Beyond the "spa and yoga" stereotype, many contemporary women's retreats tackle deeper terrain. Trained facilitators guide participants through shadow work exploring internalized patriarchy, mother wounds, or sexual trauma. Traditional ceremonies led by indigenous wisdom keepers might involve cacao rituals, sweat lodges, or womb blessing circles. The physical container of being surrounded by solely female energy for several days often catalyzes profound personal breakthroughs that continue unfolding long after the retreat ends.
Safety remains paramount - reputable retreats require health screenings, maintain clinical support staff, and enforce clear boundaries around touch and sharing. Many integrate trauma-informed protocols developed at leading centers like the California Institute of Integral Studies Source. This allows women to journey as deep as they choose while knowing skilled holders maintain the container.