Healing Hearts
A Guided Dance Journey
from Grief to JOY!
SEPT. 14-21, 2024
If you have experienced loss in your life,
then you are no stranger to Grief.
Loss can take many forms - a beloved spouse, child, parent, partner. A pet, a marriage, a job, a friend, a home. Even a dream.
The response to all loss is grief, whether we call it that or not. And it finds a home in our bodies until we find a way to release it.
If you have done some healing work and are ready to take it even deeper, then join us for a life-changing week in Paradise as we explore powerful movement and dance practices, ancient wisdom, and the synergy of group healing that will finally, once-and-for-all, set you on a path to freedom!
* This is a retreat for both men and women.*
Picture this . . .
It's your first evening in Costa Rica. You're feeling a bit apprehensive, but excited at the same time. You have settled into your casita and enjoyed a delicious, nourishing dinner with your new friends, and you are marveling at how quickly you have all bonded.
You now are being guided in silence to the ceremonial building at the back of the property called Haven. Your breath quickens and you have a sense that you are crossing an important threshold.
It's sunset and the air is starting to cool. You feel a slight breeze on your skin and you hear the faint sound of the ocean in the distance. A howler monkey starts a chorus and you are startled and amazed by the other-worldly sounds.
You reach a gate where you are welcomed with a knowing smile and directed down a bamboo-lined path. As you approach the building, you hear ethereal music wafting out of the upstairs windows. You feel a sense of sacredness.
You are warmly greeted with joyful ritual and gifts and directed up the Gaudi-inspired, mosaic-laden staircase. Upstairs, you enter the upper room and you feel a sense of calm and safety. You exhale fully and your shoulders soften as you take it all in. Tears briefly fill your eyes, and you have an overwhelming feeling of gratitude that you had the courage to say "yes" to this journey.
You are here. You have arrived.
And so it begins . . .
You hear this calling your name if . . .
. . . you feel stuck and guilty after a loss because you're not doing what you “should” be doing to get your life together.
. . . you feel like a "fake" because you pretend to be happy when you're not.
. . . you've been trying to deal with your emotions on your own and hit a roadblock.
. . . you feel immobilized and alone, without a clear plan for action.
. . . you feel misunderstood by people in your life who have not experienced the losses that you have.
. . . you've taken on unhealthy habits to numb your pain.
Just Imagine . . .
Wouldn’t it be liberating to let go of shame and guilt, and allow yourself to heal from loss in your own unique way?
Can you imagine how much easier life would be if you could be honest about your emotions - good or bad - without having to pretend?
Wouldn’t it feel amazing to take back control of your own well-being and start treating yourself and your body with the reverence you deserve?
Wouldn’t it be awesome to spend a week with like-minded people and gain clarity about your own next steps?
Can you imagine how affirming it would feel to spend time recharging with people who “get” you, and learning ways to connect with people back home who don’t?
Can you picture how it would feel to share mutual loving support with people who have walked a similar path and understand your pain from the inside?
Where will we stay?
Our little piece of Paradise!
We will settle into Con Smania CR Retreat Center, located in a famous "Blue Zone" on the Pacific coast Nicoya Peninsula, which will be our home for the week. We will have the entire place to ourselves, and the wonderful owner and staff will make our needs their top priority.
The property meanders around a lush garden, full of native plants, flowers, butterflies, exotic birds, and hummingbirds. Everywhere you turn, you will find little places to sit and just "be." There are comfortable chairs, hammocks, benches, and gathering places - just where you need them.
Unlike some other places in Costa Rica, this property is all on one level, so it is nicely accessible to those of us who like to avoid stairs.
Alongside the property, there is a grassy landing strip that invites bare feet to feel the earth beneath.
The casitas are all unique and delightful. Two rooms are built around the base of a giant Guanacaste tree that towers over the property. Another has a sleeping loft and balcony, overlooking the garden. It's hard to pick a favorite!
All beds have locally made bed frames and memory foam mattresses, where you will rest in comfort. The bathrooms are equipped with overhead rain showers and bidets.
Environmentally friendly body soap, shampoo and conditioner are available if you choose not to bring your own.
Common areas are open air, but all guest rooms are air- conditioned. And yes, there is wifi!
Can you picture yourself here?
I am kissing the earth with my feet when I walk
- Zawadi Nyong'o
Click arrows to scroll through more photos
What will we eat?
You will start your mornings with a plentiful coffee and tea cart, ready for self-serve early risers. It is stocked with local coffees and teas, as well as local honey and delightful add-ins. Choose from a French press or the slower Costa Rican drip maker. On your walk to the dining area, you may have seen staff members on the grounds picking fresh tropical fruit that you will later find on your breakfast plate!
Your taste buds will be delighted by the simple and delicious cuisine that nourishes life so beautifully in this famous "Blue Zone." Everything is locally grown from sustainable sources. People eat in harmony with nature here. Your body and your spirit will thank you!
Every meal has gluten-free, dairy-free and sugar-free options. It is primarily plant-based, with occasional fresh, locally caught fish or seafood.
You will be served 2 hearty family-style meals each day - breakfast and dinner. Lunch consists of any kind of smoothie you can concoct at the 24 hr. poolside smoothie bar. You can also raid the snack cabinet anytime you feel the urge. The lighter fare at mid-day will be perfect for our schedule of exuberant dancing! Trust me, you will not feel deprived!
I am redefining what it means to be productive. I am normalizing rest . . .
I am Alway Here - Soul Care Affirmations
by Zawadi Nyong'o
What will we do?
The Retreat Experience
Part of the magic of this place is allowing yourself to fall into sync with nature. You will feel compelled to take off your shoes and settle into your own skin. The days slow down as you release the need to hurry or to know what comes next. Abundance greets you with every step.
- Our "schedule" is loosely defined and subject to the whims of the rain and the monkeys.
- Weather permitting, we may take an early sunrise walk to the beach, about 10 minutes away, before breakfast.
- After breakfast, we will begin with our sharing circle that may include deep processes, heart-felt sharing in small groups or a morning dance wave. We will likely have a dance experience every day, which could be morning, afternoon or evening.
- You will have plenty of down-time to rest, journal, go for a walk, get a massage, lounge by the pool, or visit with your new friends.
- One-on-one time with Libbie will be woven into the week to help you reach your intention for being here.
- If we feel like it, one evening we may go into Nosara for a lovely sunset dinner overlooking the beach. (The retreat cover photo was taken at this restaurant.)
- Included in the cost of the trip is a life-changing opportunity to participate in a Plant Medicine Ceremony, guided by local, experienced trauma-informed facilitators. (Optional customized excursions will be available to anyone who does not want to participate in the ceremony.)
- We also have some very juicy surprises planned that I won't spoil by listing here!
Are you ready for a change?
What you will walk away with . . .
During this week, through the simple act of moving your body, you will have a visceral experience of handling big emotions, and go home with practical tools, powerful playlists and guidance to handle any emotion that arises.
The powerful synergy of sharing space with like-minded people on a similar path will help you crystalize a plan for moving forward in your own life, giving you confidence and a network of new friends to support you when you need it.
In our carefully assembled melting pot of participants, you will feel a sense of belonging, significance and acceptance, empowering you to return home better equipped to connect with others.
During this week in our dance sessions, you will learn how to fluidly move through any negative emotion to find JOY again and again, and will know in your bones, forevermore, that you always have a choice!
Your new-found sense of purpose and positivity will naturally inspire you to take beautiful care of yourself and your body, and you will learn from the talented chefs at our retreat center how to prepare mouth-watering, healthy meals at home.
At the end of this week, in our closing ceremony you will revisit the stories you came with and marvel at how they no longer have a grip on you, so you can return home with a lightened load and a grateful heart!
What's Included
- 7 glorious days in Paradise!
- Comfortable private or shared accommodations - every casita is unique and delightful!
- Delicious, nutritious chef-prepared meals using locally grown ingredients.
- Unlimited smoothies and snacks.
- Daily sharing circles and activities thoughtfully planned to bring you the utmost growth and healing.
- Daily down-time to rest and recharge, your way.
- Private one-on-one time with Libbie to assist you on your journey.
- Private shuttle to pick you up at Liberia Airport and bring you right to our door!
- Transportation for any excursions we may choose to take.
- Plant Medicine Ceremony with local facilitators (or optional customized excursion). Much more information will be provided to help you decide which is right for you.
- Dancing, adventure, gifts, surprises and JOY!
What's Not Included
- Round-trip airfare from your home city to Liberia International Airport.
- Trip cancellation insurance (required by venue).
- Cell-phone international charges (my carrier charges an extra $10 per day while traveling).
- Passport fee, if you don't already have one.
- Any additional excursions or meals in town.
- Souvenirs, jewelry, clothing, coffee, chocolate, etc. (The airport has some great shops!)
Available for an additional charge:
- Massage - 60 minutes, $130, or 90 minutes, $170. Their massage therapist is amazing! You will want 90 minutes with him.
This retreat is totally for you if . . .
you are willing to explore uncomfortable subjects to see what gifts they hold for you.
you are an optimist with hope for your future.
you are willing to participate with an open mind and an open heart.
you are a seeker and are invigorated by growing and learning new things.
you are kind and treat others with respect, even if you disagree with them.
you are committed to participating fully and getting the most out of this experience.
you love to dance and have fun!
This retreat may not be for you if . . .
you are only happy staying in 5 star hotels.
you hate rain and humidity.
you have a need to be in control and have no interest in practicing the art of surrender.
you are a meat-eater and not open to trying plant-based meals.
you aren't willing to take a leap of faith.
you aren't willing to step outside your comfort zone.
you don't like dogs. (See below.)
#dogsofconsmania
The Con Smania CR Retreat Center is home to several dogs. Some are local rescues. Other are personal pets of the owner and staff. All are "old souls" and take their jobs seriously.
They are unobtrusive, quietly asking for pats by a subtle lean on your leg. If unanswered, they will move on to someone else. They are naturally in tune with our energy and always watching out for us.
Jesse
Logan
Your Retreat Guide
Libbie Vaughan
This retreat has a deeply personal meaning for me. For most of my life, I was comfortable, happy and fulfilled. I had married my soul mate, raised 2 amazing sons, and had a satisfying career and a beautiful home. That was all shattered when my sweet husband Glenn started struggling with deep depression, and in August of 2020 he did the unthinkable and took his own life.
I went through the phases of gut-wrenching grief privately, but my go-to coping style is to pretend I have it all handled and to focus on taking care of other people. Sound familiar to anyone?
As a therapist though, I knew I couldn't do it alone. I sought out experts and did talk therapy, energy work, breath work, Reiki, spiritual counseling - and it all helped. But I knew the trauma of my experience was still lodged in my body, and so I went back to my roots and found my greatest freedom through dance and movement.
I am committed to sharing this powerful method with others and now I lead a monthly therapeutic dance class in Houston, Texas. My dream has been to return to Costa Rica, where I experienced my greatest healing on a dance retreat in 2022, and guide my own group to freedom.
Professionally, I have had a 30+ year career as a clinical social worker. I have worked many years in hospice, helping patients and families come to grips with loss, find peace in the dying process, and helping survivors put the pieces of their lives back together in a way that empowers them and honors the ones they lost. Now, that is me.
People say they find me to be kind, welcoming, generous and easy to talk to. I hope you will too!
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if this is for me?
If you have read this far, there is something about this retreat that is calling to you. Take a moment and be still. Close your eyes. Listen to your heart . . . and you will know.
What if I can't afford it?
This is not just a vacation in a pretty place. It is an investment in your future, in your well-being, in your freedom. A better question might be . . . how can you afford NOT to do it!
Also, please know that there are payment plans available. We will do our best to accommodate your needs.
I'm concerned about traveling with people I don't know.
Your personal journey actually starts as soon as you register, and you’ll get to know everyone through a private Facebook group.
On top of that, there will be in-person meet-and-greet sessions via Zoom to allow you time to break the ice and meet the ones who will be joining you.
You will be picked up at the airport by a private Con Smania shuttle and will likely share the ride with other participants arriving near the same time. You will have made new friends by the time you even arrive at the retreat center!
The group and the venue are intimate, and the space is private. Rest assured, this is a safe space for you to be YOU. By then end of our week together, you will have new trusted friends for life!
Can I pick my room?
We are going to ask that you consider this your first exercise in letting go of control! The owner and Libbie will work together to place people intuitively. Every room is different and we know them best. When you register, you will be asked a few preference questions to guide us. We will take great care in the process and want you to be happy!
If for some reason there are legitimate objections once you arrive, we will do our best to accommodate.
I need a roommate. Can you help me find one?
If you would like to be matched with a roommate, please let us know, and we’ll do our best to pair you with someone else who is also seeking a roommate. Then you’ll have a chance to meet and get to know your fellow traveler during our pre-trip online gatherings.
Can I bring my partner/kids?
This is a transformational experience, not a vacation. Couples are more than welcome IF BOTH partners are participating fully in the retreat. We want this to be an immersive experience for you. Anyone traveling with you who is not participating would be a distraction. This is YOUR time!
This retreat center is not able to accommodate children.
Do I have to participate in everything?
Of course not! You are the master of your own experience and free to choose.
That being said, every experience is being carefully crafted to provide you with the transformational experience you are signing up for, so you may not want to miss anything!
Where do I fly into?
Book your flight on Saturday, September 14, 2024 into Liberia International Airport, (LIB), Costa Rica. From Houston, it is an easy 3 hour non-stop flight. Plan to arrive no later than 2:00 pm (by 1:00 pm is even better) to allow time to clear Customs and connect with the shuttle. From there, you will be taken care of throughout your visit!
Return flights on Saturday, September 21, 2024 should be booked late morning or early afternoon. The shuttle will leave the retreat center around 7:30 am, getting you to the airport around 10:00 am, so plan accordingly.
If you would like to arrive early or stay late, let us know. The retreat center owner will be able to help with travel suggestions and accommodations.
How far is the retreat center from the airport?
Y'all, I'm not gonna lie. It's not so much distance but road conditions that are a problem. The roads in Costa Rica are, well, terrible. Especially in the rainy season. But the shuttle drivers are masters at dealing with the potholes. The last 10 miles are the worst. So to answer your question, the drive could take 2 to 2-1/2 hours. Just pack your patience and sense of humor and take in the stunning scenery as you go! This is also a great time to get acquainted with your fellow participants. You will be greeted with open arms and a wonderful meal when you arrive, and that drive will become a hilarious part of your shared retreat story!
Do I need Travel Insurance?
Yes, the retreat center requires travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and medical coverage. Be sure to read the fine print, as policies can differ greatly.
While you’re at it, be sure to confirm with your travel insurance provider what Covid-19-related issues are covered and to what extent.
What is the weather like?
Remember, this is a rain forest. So it will rain. Usually every day, but not usually all day. We will have times of beautiful sun and clear skies and times of rain. It is a part of life. The retreat center has large umbrellas available everywhere, so no worries! The temperature in September may get into the 80s during the day. Evenings and rainy days can be cooler, so light wraps are great.
And did I mention humidity? It's on a whole different level than we are used to, even in Houston. So if you have crazy hair like mine, you might want to bring headbands, hair clips, etc. and just don't worry about it!
What should I pack?
The lighter the better. You will only need the most comfortable of clothes. Sundresses are great. Yoga pants, shorts, skirts. A swimsuit for the pool. For guys, shorts and t-shirts are the norm. Flip-flops, walking shoes, footwear that can be hosed off if it gets muddy. A light wrap or rain gear if needed. And some presentable pajamas you wouldn't mind being seen in!
Ladies, leave your heavy makeup at home. Your inner beauty will be shining so no need to cover it up!
Hairdryers are available on site by request.
What about Covid-19?
At the time of this writing, there are no international travel requirements concerning Covid-19 in either the US or Costa Rica. We will be monitoring this throughout the year and will update you if anything changes.
Where in the world am I going?
Con Smania CR Retreat Center is located on the Pacific coast of the famous Nicoya peninsula, home of one of five "Blue Zones" on the planet, with a high percentage of centenarians, for good reason.
A scenic 10 minute walk takes you to Playa Buena Vista, a beautiful, wild and undeveloped beach - usually free of tourists.
The closest airport is in Liberia, Costa Rica. There are easy, 3 hour direct flights from Houston to Liberia every day.
Contact us . . .
Curious? Fill out this form and Libbie will get back to you to schedule a no-obligation Discovery Call to see if this retreat is a good fit for you.
Interested but need to think about it? No problem!
Join our email interest list for occasional reminders and updates on the exciting plans.
Spaces are limited and there are special savings for quick action!
We would hate for you to get busy
and miss out!
You totally deserve this!