When Women Rise: Our Most Powerful Phoenix Retreat Yet, Guatemala
I’ve just returned home from nine transformative days in Guatemala, seven of which were spent on our women’s retreat and I have to say, this one was by far the best yet. #8 in the series, and yet, as experienced, the more you do something, the better it gets. This retreat proved it.
From the very beginning, the energy was electric. The women who joined came ready to move some shit, to show up fully for themselves, and to do the work that transformation demands. The schedule and content were pure mastery, carefully crafted to challenge, inspire, and guide but it was the organic individualism of these women that created the real magic. Each woman brought her own story, her own presence, her own energy and together it was like alchemy. Over the course of the retreat, these women didn’t just show up they became friends, they joined in a sisterhood, supporting one another, laughing together, and holding space through the hard, transformative moments.
We stayed at Villas del Carmen on Lake Atitlán, and the space itself was stunning. The lake stretched out like a living mirror, reflecting volcanoes, clouds, and sunsets that felt almost otherworldly. The owner Sofia, our host, chef, and yoga instructor brought such a special vibration to our space, her presence made the villa feel like home, and her care and energy touched each of us in subtle but profound ways. The food nourished us physically and spiritually, and the yoga helped us settle into ourselves in ways that were transformative before the retreat even officially began.
Adventure and growth were perfectly balanced. We jumped off a 45-foot cliff (with a smaller option for anyone who preferred), hiked volcanoes guided by Holy Henry, whose humor and deep knowledge of Mayan culture made every step both fun and meaningful, and explored local towns, feeling the rhythm and spirit of Guatemala around us. Even the street dogs seemed to join the adventure, walking us home for an hour and a half like silent, faithful companions.
Then came the “messy middle” day a deep, intentional dive into old limiting beliefs, paired with reflection on our higher power and spiritual practice. We experienced a life-changing breathwork session that opened space in ways words cannot capture. That evening, our sacred circle became a powerful container where hearts opened, tears flowed, and the energy of trust, vulnerability, and transformation surged. Tomas, our wise Sherpa, reminded us to keep life simple, his grounded presence anchoring us through the intensity of our inner work. And yes, the temazcal (sweat lodge) was brutal, absolutely brutal but also a complete reset, clearing both body and spirit and leaving us reborn in a way only sweat, a little fear, and pure intention can create.
It’s impossible not to leave enlightened. Maybe even wide awake, from something you couldn’t see before. And here’s the thing: even as a facilitator, I experienced it firsthand. I came home having to clean up some pieces in myself. The work isn’t always easy, it rarely is but it’s always powerful. It’s messy, yes, but that’s exactly the path to freedom.
Every participant received a copy of When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chödrön, who teaches us that real transformation often begins in the very moments when life feels uncertain, messy, or overwhelming. Through her wisdom, we are reminded that leaning into discomfort, rather than resisting it, is where courage, clarity, and freedom live.
Black Friday Special: Join Us in Bali in 2026
If you’ve been waiting for a sign, this is it! Our Black Friday special makes saying “yes” to yourself a little easier:
✨ $500 OFF any booking – Use code: BlackFriday2025
✨ + An additional $250 OFF when you choose Pay in Full
Every room type is included, even the suites that sell out first. Not ready to pay in full? Reserve your spot for just $500 and take up to 10 months to pay the remaining balance.
Come ready, come open, and leave a little lighter, a little freer, and a lot more awake, just like we did in Guatemala.
The women who join don’t just transform, they connect, they support, and they rise together, creating friendships and a sisterhood that lasts long after the retreat ends.
Special available until 12/2/25
