This summer, from July 26 to August 2, we invite you to step away from the noise of daily life and join us in the breathtaking landscapes of Sicily for On Pause—a wellness retreat designed to help you slow down, reconnect, and find balance through movement and breath.

Imagine waking up to the warm glow of the Mediterranean sun, the scent of wildflowers and sea air drifting through your window, and the peaceful stillness of the Sicilian countryside. Nestled in the rolling hills of southeastern Sicily, Danena (a 19th- century farmhouse) will be our sanctuary for the week. With panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and lush countryside, it’s the perfect place to step away from the noise of daily life and find clarity in a space that feels both supportive and nurturing.

Throughout the retreat, you’ll engage in thoughtfully curated yoga and pilates sessions, meditation practices, and reflective workshops—all crafted to cultivate self-awareness, balance, and a deeper understanding of your inner world. Through intentional movement and mindful stillness, you'll discover how to listen to your body's wisdom and embrace its natural rhythm.

You'll practice in a spacious indoor yoga studio, fully equipped with props, or on the outdoor platform surrounded by nature!

For your comfort, each room is designed with Egyptian cotton linens, organic toiletries, air conditioning, and—of course—Wi-Fi when you need to stay connected. Whether you're unwinding by the pool, soaking up the sun on the rooftop terrace, or enjoying a quiet moment in the garden, there’s plenty of space to relax and recharge.

Each day, you'll enjoy two farm to table meals, thoughtfully prepared by expert Sicilian chefs, highlighting the region’s rich flavors. Whether you're savoring every bite or watching golden sunsets, each moment is an invitation to unwind and enjoy the present.

Beyond the retreat, Sicily offers endless opportunities to explore—from charming seaside villages to UNESCO heritage sites. We highly recommend renting a car, as public transportation is limited, allowing you to discover the island’s beauty at your own pace.

This retreat is for those seeking a meaningful pause, connection with others, and a sense of renewed energy. Come with an open heart, and leave feeling refreshed and recharged.

We can’t wait to share this journey with you!

XO, Zaina + Ashley

Ashley Gerczak is a pilates and yoga teacher, certified Integrative Holistic Health Coach, and founder of BLUE HONEY, a yoga and pilates studio based in the coastal town of Irvington, VA. Ashley began her teaching journey in New York City, training across a variety of modalities and specialties. After experiencing the physical toll of a fast-paced career in film and injuries from her love of running, she turned to yoga and pilates as a way to heal and reconnect with her body. Her teaching style is equal parts alignment, music, vibes, and fun, blending elements of culture, fashion, and artistry with the insights gained from her teachers, travels, and personal experiences. Ashley is passionate about helping people of all ages feel more embodied and empowered through movement.

Zaina is a trauma-informed meditation and yoga teacher based in New York City, dedicated to helping people in fast-paced environments discover grounding and nurturing practices. Her wellness journey began during her career in the fashion industry, where long hours and high stress led to severe burnout and panic attacks. Through yoga and breathwork, she found tools for balance and self-regulation, which she now shares with others. Zaina takes a thoughtful and creative approach to her teaching, combining movement, breath, and sound to cultivate energy shifts that extend beyond the mat, making her classes both dynamic and deeply transformative.

Together, Ashley and Zaina bring a unique and complementary blend of experience, creativity, and passion to offer a retreat experience that is grounding, energizing, and truly unforgettable!

Deposit & Cancellation Policy

A deposit is required to secure your spot at the retreat and is non-refundable. Flexible payment plans are available for the remaining balance. By submitting your deposit, you agree to the terms of our cancellation policy.

Cancellation Policy

Your deposit guarantees your reservation and is non-refundable. If you need to cancel, the refund policy for any additional payments will depend on the timing of your cancellation:

• Cancellations made more than 60 days before the retreat start date will receive a full refund of payments made, excluding the deposit.
• Cancellations made within 60 days of the retreat start date are non-refundable, with no exceptions.

We understand that unexpected situations can arise, which is why we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to safeguard your investment. Please note that we are unable to offer refunds or credits for any reason, including unforeseen circumstances such as weather, personal emergencies, or illness/injury. Additionally, no refunds or credits will be issued for missed portions of the retreat, late arrivals, or early departures.

Thank you for your understanding—we’re excited to welcome you on this journey!