Retreats
A Week-Long Retreat in Pura Vida Land
Discover profound healing for the heart in the lush, life-affirming embrace of Costa Rica.
Offerings
This intimate, transformative 7-day retreat is designed for those carrying the weight of grief and loss.
Here, in the heart of “Pura Vida” — Costa Rica’s pure life philosophy — you’ll experience the gentle, powerful healing of the ocean, nature, community, and guided support. Surf & Solace combines evidence-based surf therapy with compassionate grief work to help you process pain, rebuild resilience, and rediscover joy and connection.
Duration: 7 days / 6 nights
Location: A serene beachfront eco-lodge in Costa Rica’s Pacific coast (e.g., Jaco, Playa Hermosa and Esterillos area — waves, jungle, and pura vida vibes).
Focus: Healing the heart from grief through ocean therapy, movement, mindfulness, and authentic human connection.
Group Size: Small and supportive (limited spots for deep, safe sharing).
Led by: Dr. Steel (one-on-one sessions and group facilitation) + certified local surf instructors, yoga teachers, and guides.
Daily Rhythms
A Balanced Blend of Healing, Adventure & Rest. Each day flows with intention: gentle structure in the morning, active exploration midday, reflective unwinding in the evening, and plenty of free time to simply be.
Morning Awakening
Start with sunrise mindfulness sessions or gentle yoga on the beach overlooking the ocean. Breath work, guided meditation, and intention-setting help open the heart and ground the body.
Surf Therapy Sessions
Guided surf lessons for beginners/intermediates (boards, gear, and patient instruction provided) — focusing on the therapeutic flow state of riding waves to release stored emotions and build confidence.
For more advanced surfers: Guided tours to nearby breaks for challenging, exhilarating sessions that channel energy and foster a sense of mastery over life’s unpredictability.
Jungle Excursions & Nature Immersion
Hikes through lush rainforests to waterfalls, wildlife spotting (monkeys, toucans, sloths), or river walks. These outings connect you to the healing power of nature, reminding us of life’s cycles and renewal.
Daily Yoga & Mindfulness
Afternoon or sunset yoga classes tailored to emotional release and heart-opening. Followed by mindfulness practices like journaling, sound healing, or guided grief reflections.
Group & One-on-One Sessions
Facilitated group circles with Dr. Steel for shared storytelling, compassionate listening, and collective healing.
Private one-on-one time with Dr. Steel for deeper personal processing, grief counseling, or tailored support.
Cultural Connection & Community
Mix it up with local Ticos (Costa Ricans) — invite them to join select group sessions for shared wisdom, laughter, music, or even a casual beach bonfire. This fosters cross-cultural healing and reminds us we’re not alone in our pain.
Nourishing Meals & Free Time
Delicious, healthy Costa Rican-inspired cuisine: fresh tropical fruits, plant-based options, seafood, and farm-to-table dishes prepared with love.
Afternoons/evenings include free time — lounge in a hammock, walk the beach, journal privately, or explore nearby towns.
What's Included
• 6 nights comfortable, eco-friendly beachfront accommodation.
• All meals (nutritious, flavorful, and accommodating dietary needs).
• Daily guided surf sessions (lessons/tours, equipment).
• Daily yoga & mindfulness classes.
• Jungle excursions & nature activities.
• Group grief support circles & one-on-one sessions with Dr. Steel.
• Airport transfers (from nearest airport).
• Local cultural integration experiences.
Healing Outcomes
Participants often leave feeling lighter, more connected to themselves and others, with tools to navigate grief back home. The ocean teaches us to ride waves of emotion rather than fight them; the jungle shows resilience in growth; community offers solace in shared humanity. Pura Vida isn’t just a slogan here — it’s a lived experience of pure, heartfelt renewal.
Ready to begin your journey toward healing of the heart?