I have the privilege of many travel adventures, but the "Rise into 2026" retreat with Michelle (firstnationsyogini) at Casa Firefly Boutique Resort is officially a highlight of my many travel experiences. I arrived as a solo traveler not knowing quite what to expect, but even if I had the highest expectations, this retreat would have exceeded them. Michelle is an incredible energy, literally a "small-town teacher with a global spirit." She has a warm, rooted, and all, welcoming energy that allowed her to hold space for every level of practitioner. Her classes were very thoughtful and intentional; you could tell she put immense care into observing all participants and adapting as the days ebbed and flowed. The evening Yin and Yoga Nidra sessions were particularly special. I can barely recall many of the soundtracks because Michelle skillfully adapted to the immersive sounds of nature, the rain, monkeys, and birds surrounding the yogashala with subtle references. The group connected immediately because of Michelle’s grounded presence. * The New Year’s Eve Release: A truly cleansing experience. It was a thoughtful, cozy, firelit session where we practiced, journaled, and released the old to make way for the new. * The Fun: It wasn’t all serious! Our NYE karaoke shenanigans were a massive highlight, and the Mala building session became a beautiful practice of "yoga off the mat." * The Food: Every meal was delicious and nourishing, leading into engaging and fun conversations afterwards, where we spent hours around the table as group in this safe and comfortable space created by Michelle. The retreat was very accommodating for tours and offered a perfect blend of travel and vacation. I was able to go ziplining, horseback riding, and take a tour of Cahuita National Park, all of which were top-tier experiences. If you need to unwind, the massages were also incredibly relaxing at the resort. If you aren't a nature enthusiast, this may not be for you. You are completely wrapped in the elements here, from morning howler monkey "alarms" to the tropical rain. We even had a short internet drop, but no one really noticed because we were too busy lounging by the pool or getting immersed in the jungle. This trip has been purely inspiring. Michelle is an observant, intentional, and world class soul. Book that yoga retreat with Michelle today! You would not regret it!

The only problem with this yoga training retreat was that I can’t imagine any other I may attend in future could ever measure up to this one. My hopes and expectations were exceeded in every possible way, in particular: the venue (Casa Firefly Boutique Retreat) was perfect experience and location, the program organization was flawless and seamless, Michelle’s yoga instruction was truly exemplary, and the participant was group varied, welcoming and friendly. I also liked that each day had some free time to ourselves to lounge by the pool, relax on a deserted beach, or nap in a hammock. From start to finish, this was both an enjoyable vacation and a worthwhile training investment.

It was phenomenal all around. Stacy and Michelle are amazing. Casa firefly is amazing. I would 100% come back.