It’s no secret that leading up to the Dare to Rise: Belize Bliss yoga retreat, I was anxious about how things would go. Though I had visited the jungle before and knew its raw beauty, organizing this retreat felt a lot like setting up a blind date – with no guarantees of a perfect match.
Would the environment resonate with everyone?
Would the space inspire the connection and renewal I envisioned?
I am thrilled to say that the experience was nothing short of epic. The lush surroundings, the transformative yoga practices, and the shared moments of discovery created an unforgettable journey for all.
Read on to hear more about it and to learn how you can join me next year for this truly transformative experience.
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Nestled between the deep blue waters of the Caribbean and the lush jungles of Belize, Dare to Rise: Belize Bliss created a perfect balance of connection, adventure, and inner peace. Guiding a group of nine incredible individuals through this journey was an honor and joy! From the tranquil island to the vibrant jungle, every moment nurtured the body, mind, and soul.
Island Paradise: Serenity by the Sea
The retreat began on a nearly private island, a slice of paradise just three-quarters of a mile long; it took just a minute or two to get from one side to the other. After a small plane flight to Dangriga and a boat ride through choppy waves, we stepped onto the island dock where a friendly team welcomed each participant. The beaches, dotted with hermit crabs and lizards, became a sanctuary for relaxation and reflection.
Guests stayed in cabanas or overwater bungalows. You couldn't help but have a view of the ocean – it was everywhere! Hammocks swayed gently over the sea, and the decks transformed into personal sanctuaries where participants could choose to have a relaxing massage or just chill between adventures.
Our mornings started with yoga, sometimes under a palapa, sometimes on a roofed patio. And, when tropical rain poured, it created a meditative soundscape. At practice, we sipped cucumber water and set our intentions for the day, deepening our connections to ourselves and each other.
From the dock, we kayaked, snorkeled, and paddle boarded, immersing ourselves in the vibrant marine life. Snorkeling near the shore revealed starfish, rays, barracuda, and anemones. A short boat ride led us to the Belize Barrier Reef, where we swam among lobsters, blue tang, nurse sharks, and coral in an awe-inspiring underwater world.
Between adventures, we swam in the sea, swung over the ocean, and lay in beach chairs admiring the views. We became fast friends, bonding over beach games, impromptu karaoke, and dancing under the stars. These moments of laughter and camaraderie added an unforgettable layer of intimacy to the retreat.
Into the Jungle: Immersed in Nature
After three nights, we bid farewell to the island and took a boat back to the mainland, followed by a drive into the heart of the jungle. Our accommodations, casitas and treehouses nestled amidst the lush greenery, brought us closer to nature. In the morning, the calls of howler monkeys greeted us, setting the tone for the day ahead. The jungle teemed with life – from feeding curious kinkajous during dinner to sharing breakfast with a brightly colored toucans (aracari).
Adventure and growth awaited at every turn. We floated on giant inner tubes down the serene Macal River, allowing the current to carry us through a lush green corridor to a sandy river beach. Visits to mystical Mayan ruins connected us to ancient wisdom, while a cave expedition challenged everyone’s physical and mental resilience. These moments of adventure encouraged the group to confront fears and discover inner strength.
Culinary Delights
The food throughout the retreat was nothing short of spectacular. Meals were thoughtfully prepared to accommodate vegetarian and vegan preferences, while also featuring fresh-caught seafood like lobster and conch. Gourmet dishes, including osso bucco and chicken parmesan, delighted every palate. Sharing these meals (and perhaps a local beer or coconut rum) together became another way to connect, as we savored the vibrant flavors of Belize.
Yoga: Connection, Reflection, and Growth
Yoga remained the heart of the retreat, grounding each day. On the first evening, I asked participants to identify a word that represented their reason for joining the retreat. This simple exercise set the tone for the journey ahead, helping everyone align with their personal goals that included "connection", "liberation", and "I matter, too".
Throughout the retreat, journal prompts encouraged participants to reflect on their adventures, yoga practices, and the insights they could carry back home. A special session invited everyone to uncover their unique superpowers, celebrating the qualities that make them extraordinary.
Morning and evening yoga sessions focused on building stamina, addressing fears, and cultivating love for ourselves and others. The tranquility of the ocean and the jungle’s energy infused every movement, making each practice feel deeply spiritual and transformative.
Transformation and Takeaways
I was asked many times about my favorite part of the retreat, and while swimming in the sea and connecting with nature were undeniably amazing, the most profoundly rewarding aspect was witnessing the transformation of each participant.
The island’s serenity taught us the value of stillness, while the jungle’s vibrancy reminded us of life’s boundless energy. Through yoga, snorkeling, cultural exploration, and moments of quiet reflection, everyone left the retreat with a renewed sense of gratitude and empowerment.
In the words of Lisa who joined on this adventure: “ Honestly, I can say this was one of the best trips I’ve ever been on—life-changing in every sense of the word.”
If you’re craving an experience that weaves adventure, connection, and self-discovery, this is your chance. Dare to Rise: Belize Bliss offers a space to dive deep into the beauty around you and within you. Let’s create magic together in 2025. Dates are set (and I even added a night): December 6-13th. We'll start in the jungle and then make our way to the ocean. I CAN NOT WAIT.
Do you need something sooner? Costa Rica June 7-14th is open and ready for reservations too. That's where we truly set an intention of self care and rejuvenation. You return feeling like a new person -- clear, focused, and vibrant! Follow this link to find out about both retreats.
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