San José Province, Tinamaste, Costa Rica
May 18 - 24, 2025
About this Retreat
Ash Ruiz is a seasoned guide in self-realization, nonduality, and trauma informed plant medicine facilitation, with over 30 years of experience. From performing for millions as a teen in Menudo to experiencing deep immersions with Curanderos in the Amazonian Rain Forest, his journey has been one of profound healing and transformation.
Having lived in Peru for over 2 years in his early 20s he was welcomed into the shape shifting realms of many indigenous cultures most notably the Shuar where he got to live and absorb their teachings, traditions and magical songs aka icaros.
It was during this time his unique approach to inviting others 'to notice how vividly awake and free they are' began to take form. Blending his love of pristine nondual awareness and Plant Medicine Ash often says with a universe of sparkles in his eyes 'Imaginary medicine, for an imaginary disease'.
As the lead singer of Here II Here, Ash shared stages with luminaries like Eckhart Tolle, Byron Katie, Gangaji and Deepak Chopra, offering music as a gateway to awakening. Now, through retreats, workshops, Satsangs and private mentorship, he supports others in embodying presence, radical authenticity, and the unwaveringly peaceful clarity of being. His work has been featured at The United Nations, Good Morning America, and various spiritual communities around the globe.
Teo is a native from France and is a well-loved Yoga teacher in Los Angeles. His travels and studies have helped him to find his true power: to help others find their inner wisdom. His attentive approach and his deeply rooted desire to care for people is exactly the guidance you’re looking for. Whether you are a seasoned yogi or brand new to the practice, Teo will guide you gently towards the next step of your expansion.
Details of this retreat
Awakened Heart is a 7-day retreat set in the breathtaking Diamante Valley of Costa Rica, designed to help you reconnect with the truth of your intrinsic wholeness. Created specifically for the queer community, this experience weaves together sacred plant ceremonies, immersive experiences in lush nature, and holistic wellness practices to guide you toward healing, self-discovery, and a sense of profound connection. Here, in a supportive and inclusive environment, you’ll explore the themes of wholeness, our bond with nature, and the power of community while gently examining areas of life where you may feel blocked or fragmented.
This retreat welcomes GBTQIA+ men (cis and trans) of all backgrounds, body types, and experience levels. Through yoga, meditation, nature excursions, and trauma-informed integration, you’ll deepen your relationship with yourself, your community, and the natural world. Together, we’ll explore our connections to sex, sensuality, and intimacy, creating a safe and non-sexual container for open reflection and personal growth. Whether you’re experienced with sacred plant work or entirely new to this journey, you’ll find a space here to reconnect with your authentic self and reclaim the vibrant life that’s always been yours.
What to Expect
Sacred Plant Ceremonies: Three optional guided plant ceremonies (two nighttime and one daytime) for deep personal insight and healing, supported by trauma-informed facilitators.
Holistic Wellness Practices: Daily yoga, meditation, and movement sessions to align body and mind. Satsang (heartfelt discussions and guided reflections) to be offered two-three times during the week.
Nature Immersion: Waterfall purification rituals and a nature reciprocity ceremony to strengthen your connection with the earth.
Supportive Community & Integration: Pre-retreat Zoom preparation for connection and intention-setting, plus post-retreat group meetings to ensure long-lasting integration of your experience.
Nourishment: Organic, farm-to-table meals crafted to support your body and spirit.
Non-sexual space: Open discussions on sexuality, but an agreement to refrain from sexual activity, fostering a secure space for deep introspection.
Who Is This For?
This retreat is for GBTQIA+ men (cis and trans) seeking:
Personal growth through plant ceremony and mindfulness practices.
A deeper connection to nature and their authentic selves.
A supportive and inclusive community of like-minded individuals.
Whether you’re experienced with yoga, meditation, or sacred plant ceremonies—or entirely new to these practices—you are welcome. Health screenings and consultations ensure this retreat is safe and supportive for all participants.
To create a safe environment conducive to healing and community development, we will ask all participants to adhere to these agreements throughout the week. While we will explore topics of sexuality, we will ask participants to refrain from sex during the retreat. This helps to create a safe environment, and encourages deep connections without the motivation of sex.