7~Day Journey in Costa Rica/ Day one
I just landed in Costa Rica to begin a 7-day retreat, not as a facilitator but as a participant. A participant that is learning and growing to heal others.
That alone feels like a breakthrough.
As a nurturer, I’ve always found comfort in holding space.
But now, I’m sitting in it. I’m learning to be still. To listen. To receive.
Today I sat in awe, watching the clouds part from the airplane window, the land greeting me below.
In that moment, gratitude overwhelmed me.
Gratitude for showing up, even when I didn’t know what I needed.
🌿Plant allies: I am working with Sassafras and White Willow. Together, they don’t just open the heart, they recalibrate it.
The willow tree gives us a sense of hope, a sense of belonging and safety, and the ability to let go of the pain and suffering to grow new, strong and bold.
Reflection:
* How do you respond when you’re asked to receive instead of give?
* In what ways does your identity attach to being the strong one, the nurturer, the guide?
* What does it feel like to sit in stillness without needing to perform or produce?
Follow the journey….#to Jungleland At Hermosa Point receive
Beginning a healing retreat in Costa Rica offers a unique opportunity to connect deeply with oneself and the natural world. The first day of this 7-day journey emphasizes the transformative power of stillness, reflection, and the practice of receiving rather than giving. This shift is crucial for nurturers and caregivers who are often accustomed to supporting others but may neglect their own needs. Plant allies such as Sassafras and White Willow play an important role in this healing process. Sassafras is known for its cleansing properties and ability to open the heart, helping individuals to release emotional blockages and foster a sense of renewal. White Willow, historically used for its pain-relieving and calming effects, symbolizes hope, belonging, and safety. Together, these plants aid in recalibrating emotional well-being by encouraging letting go of past pain and cultivating strength and boldness for personal growth. Incorporating nature-based therapies into wellness routines enhances the healing journey. Costa Rica’s lush environment, including locations like Jungleland At Hermosa Point, creates an ideal setting for engaging with these plant allies and practicing mindfulness. Taking time to observe natural phenomena—such as clouds parting from an airplane window—can foster gratitude and presence, critical components of mental and emotional healing. Reflection questions encourage participants to explore their identities and responses: How does it feel to receive without the pressure to perform? In what ways is strength associated with caregiving roles? These introspections deepen self-awareness and foster emotional balance. For those planning a wellness retreat or searching for meaningful self-care practices, this journey offers valuable insights into embracing vulnerability, practicing stillness, and supporting holistic healing through the synergy of nature and mindful reflection.
