Ananda Lodge

I have been struggling with symptoms of CPTSD my entire life, I never knew what it felt like to feel a calm nervous system and was always nauseous requiring different meds to function. I decided to go on the women’s only retreat with a *hope* that I would feel just a little bit better. Each ceremony was incredibly powerful in its own way, and came along with some drastic self realizations. The facilitators provided the most respectful and loving support, and on the second ceremony had an intense body reaction that stemmed from my trauma (childhood sexual abuse). I realized I wasn’t nauseas but rather felt disgust all the time. Since my retreat has ended (meeting 2 months now) I have not been nauseated once, and when I came home I didn’t feel the need to use anything (meds, alcohol or cannabis) and have even lost my sugar addiction! The improvement I have felt and seen in my life truly can not be put into words. I feel so much lighter, clearer thinking, and I can hear my intuitive thoughts. I am forever thankful for this retreat and the facilitators and cannot wait to go back for another retreat to continue to level up my way of life. I wish everyone I know could attend Amanda Lodge and I know first hand the outcome is so powerful in such a positive way. I was able to feel a sense of pure joy that I’ve never felt before, and have so much gratitude for my healing. If you’re on the fence, please don’t hesitate! It is so worth it!!

I found Ananda Retreat center on a late night doomscroll on my phone. I've participated in DBT, CBT, traditional treatments for depression and PTSD with a slew of pharmaceutical interventions since I was a teen diagnosed with depression.

I was INCREDIBLY skeptical about plant medicine but decided to take a shot after reading about Ananda's trauma informed care approach and integration.

I came hoping for a little relief from my PTSD symptoms and left with so much more. Kim is incredibly caring and mindful about her practice with plant medicine. She involves you and educates you on every step of the process. She is incredibly knowledgeable and cautious in her practice to make sure everything is in the best interest of her guests. I thought I was just going to take plant medicine but instead I was invited into an immersive healing process with an wonderful guide and healer.

My family thought I was crazy- when I returned home and they saw the glow and joy on my face they knew the experience was transformative. So thankful I found this amazing ministry of healing. Already planning my next visit to continue my healing work.

Accommodations were on par with a 5 star resort- amazing view, beautiful pool and peaceful and intentionally small. Food was nourishing and helped reset my body- massage over the rushing creek in the midst of a beautiful rainforest was also one of the memories I will cherish.

Thank you Kim and Jason for the gift of Ananda Lodge!!

I am overwhelmed with deep gratitude for my experience at Ananda’s ayahuasca retreat. I found Ananda after significant research. Having sat with the medicine ten years prior, I knew for this next journey I needed to find a Shipibo-led ceremony and program that would offer ALL of the components I believe are critical for a safe, meaningful, and integrated experience. I was confident I’d made the right choice after my first exploratory call with Kimberly, but my stay and experience far surpassed my expectations.

Reflecting on the support and care everyone at Ananda provides brings me to (happy) tears. I actually did not know “trauma informed” could be more than a terminology. I did not know it was possible to feel so safe and emotionally held. Each team member adds so much empathy and wisdom in their own way that it’s genuinely restored my faith in humanity. Everyone at Ananda truly embodies the care philosophy and upholds extremely mindful communication and energetic hygiene.

Maestra Orfelinda and Tia Lucia guided our ceremonies with strength, protection, and love. I especially appreciate how available and accessible they were. We ate every meal with them and had the opportunity to sit one on one with them prior to each ceremony. This was an essential part of ensuring focused, individualized healing during ceremonies. For lack of a better word, Maestra’s icaros and healing capabilities are simply magical.

In addition to ceremonies, the program was perfectly planned with plenty of necessary down time, massages available, daily somatic yoga/movement, meditations, beach visits, and an art therapy class. Each day was special.

While the people were the most amazing part of this retreat, I would also like to relay how beautiful, peaceful, comfortable, and supportive the property is. Ananda is beautifully designed, and it is obvious how much thought and care went into each area of the resort. With ocean views from the eco-friendly suites, you are constantly enveloped by nature while still enjoying luxury comforts - bedding, towels, soaps, and small elegant touches throughout - that keep you feeling cozy and relaxed. The food is incredible - abundant and healthy. Each meal was an absolute delight, and it was so nice to sit and share meals with the whole team.

If you’re called to sit with ayahuasca share the concerns I had surrounding authenticity, environment, physical/spiritual/emotional safety, and integration: Ananda is the safe, respectful, authentic, and compassionate place to have a powerful shift.

Going to a different country on your own can be a challenging and overwhelming experience for anyone. With this retreat, I felt so comfortable and honored to be a part of it. What Kimberly and Jason have created in Costa Rica is truly magical. They made me feel like I belonged and was part of the family for years.
I cannot thank everyone at Ananda Lodge enough for my 7 nights that I stayed with them. I would recommend them to anyone and everyone.

I attended Ananda for a weekend Huachuma retreat and had a really great experience. It’s a family owned center and they make you feel right at home and supported in your journey. The accommodations are beautiful and the grounds were situated in beautiful Costa Rican nature. The retreats are intentionally kept to small groups and the center itself seems to be run in a very ethical way. I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a plant medicine retreat.