Embark on a transformative journey to mystical Lake Arenal, nestled in the lush landscapes of Costa Rica, in the province of Guanacaste.
With the majestic Arenal Volcano towering over its waters, the lake is surrounded by dense rainforests, rolling green hills, and an abundance of wildlife. The mist often drapes over the volcano's peak, adding to the otherworldly beauty of the area.
The combination of volcanic energy, serene waters, and verdant surroundings creates a landscape that feels enchanted.
Here, you will reconnect with nature’s embrace, start your day with guided meditation and energizing yoga sessions, embark upon soul-stirring (and fun) adventures, nourish yourself with organic, locally sourced meals, take in the stunning views while relaxing on a hammock, connect with like-minded individuals fostering a sense of community and belonging.
*ROOT, RISE & REVIVE*
Together, these steps create a holistic approach to personal growth and well-being. Rooting gives you stability, rising helps you reach new potentials, and reviving ensures you stay energized and balanced.
Will you Root, Rise & Revive with us this summer in Costa Rica?
OUR HOME FOR THE WEEK- Mystica Lodge
A sanctuary kissed by the jungle, serenaded by the river, and crowned by a majestic volcano. Nestled within this tapestry of nature, choose your haven: a rustic lodge whispering secrets of wilderness, a secluded villa crackling with a warm fireplace, or a cozy jungle cabin embraced by emerald foliage. Inhale the whispers of peace as you sway in a hammock, lulled by the rhythm of the rainforest.
The Infrared Sauna (red light therapy)
Leave bathed in an ethereal sheen emanating from the inside out, as you feel the whispers of inflammation, stress, & pain melt away. For a nominal fee, go in solo or grab a friend as you both bask in the various benefits of Mystica’s delicious sauna!
The Waterfall Dipping Pool
Cascading kiss of crystal-clear waters. Feel an invigorating & reviving chill send shivers down your spine – sweet surrender to pure refreshment. A chance for rejuvenation & restoration as you take a cooling “bath”, allowing the waters to wash away any unwanted stress or worries!
The Tree-Top Healing Room
A brand-new addition to the magical offerings at Mystica is the tree-top healing space overlooking the lush, green forest and gently flowing river. Sessions in the ‘Tree of Life’ offer
a unique & rooted natural experience that facilitates and enhances treatments.
The Star Labyrinth
Step into stillness, into yourself. A mindful walk awaits, promising a symphony of focus, creativity, & serenity. Will you answer its call? Come back to the essence of who you are found in the symbolic nature of this ancient technique.
The Yoga Shala
Not merely a dwelling, but a crucible of shared transformation. A sun-warmed cedar bridge whispering beneath our feet as we rise to a new rhythm of unity, equilibrium, & endless flow! Sculpt not just poses, but the curves of our destinies, forever entwined in the echo of our days together.
The Mystica Restaurant
Savor the magical view in a relaxed and inspired setting as we join together for nourishment.
Meals are thoughtfully curated with organic & locally sourced ingredients inspired by the owners' Italian heritage and the influence of Costa Rican cuisine. The restaurant, with its rustic charm, offers seating both inside and outside on the veranda. After dinner, gather around the fireplace for jam sessions, chats and mindful moments.
*A shuttle will be provided to pick-up and drop-off the group at International Airport- Liberia/Guanacaste Airport in Costa Rica (LIR)
*Trip cancellation insurance is always recommended whenever making travel plans. You can use our suggested Travel Guard Insurance online and choose from several policy options.
*It's highly recommended to stay over the night before the retreat (July 19) to avoid any travel delays and possibly stay overnight at the end of the retreat (July 26) to avoid any travel delays (if your time allows for this).
*If you are NOT choosing to stay over the night before the retreat, we ask that your flight on July 20 arrives no later than 1pm local time (Central Standard Time- CST).
*Please book your return flight on July 26 no earlier than 2pm to allow for transportation delays, etc. on the way to the airport.
*Proof of a plane return/exit ticket within 90 days is required to enter the country.
*Upon sign up, we will be in touch for your flight information to organize a shuttle for all retreaters.
*A shuttle meeting spot at the airport will be chosen as we get closer to the retreat date.
*If you arrive too late and miss the shuttle, you will be responsible for arranging and paying for your transportation costs from the airport to the retreat center.
** You will be added to a private FB retreat group where you can meet other attendees and possibly coordinate flying with someone else, etc.
*A $500 non-refundable and non-transferable deposit is required to secure your spot on the retreat.
*Any cancellation made between your date of registration and June 15, 2025, will result in a loss of 50% of the trip price.
*Any cancellation made between June 16, 2025-July 20, 2025 will result in a total loss of funds.
*We reserve the right to cancel the trip if it does not meet our internal trip minimum. If we do so, your deposit will be refunded in full less any credit card processing fees.
*We reserve the right to determine prior to the retreat, if you are not a good fit for this trip. If we do so, your deposit will be refunded in full. For any of the add-ons, any cancellations will result in the total loss of the add-on price. Should the exchange rate vary more than 5%, price is subject to change.
*Trip cancellation insurance is always recommended whenever making travel plans. You can use our suggested Travel Guard Insurance online and choose from several policy options. Some other options are www.trawickinternational.com or www.travelinsured.com.
*We are not responsible for lost, stolen, or missing items.
*We are not responsible for airline cancelations, missed flights, or transportation issues.
*All reservations and bookings are first come first serve.
*A VALID PASSPORT IS REQUIRED if you are leaving your home country to attend the retreat. Please make sure it is not EXPIRED or within 6 months of expiration. If so, you will have to apply for a new passport.
*A VISA MAY BE REQUIRED depending on where you are traveling from.
*Proof of a plane return/exit ticket within 90 days is required to enter Costa Rica.
*You must sign and return a liability waiver and retreat contract (both will be emailed to you) to secure your registration.
*Please be mindful of others if you are using your phone. If you're having a loud conversation or video chatting, find a private area away from other participants to kindly continue your convo.
*No smoking at the retreat center or around other participants.
*If you choose to have an alcoholic beverage on your own time, please do so in moderation. Inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated.
*Absolutely, no drugs are permitted including plant medicine.
*We are committed to creating a safe, supportive, and kind environment for all attendees. Please respect fellow participants and honor the privacy and confidentiality of others.
*If any behavior threatens the safety, well-being, or emotional security of any participant, we reserve the right to remove a participant from the retreat without a refund if their behavior disrupts the group dynamic.
LAURA GOTLIN
LG Wholistic Wellness
E-RYT 500/YACEP/Yin and Yoga Nidra Certified, Reiki Master Teacher, IIN Holistic Health & Wellness Coach, Certified Sound Practitioner, CPR/AED/First Aid Certified
Email: laura@lgwholisticwellness.com Cell: 917-669-4152
IG :@lg_wholistic_wellness FB: @lg.wholistic.wellness
Website: Laura Gotlin Wholistic Wellness
Laura has dedicated her life to serving others by helping them seek their greatest potential through holistic wellness in a gentle, loving, judgment-free space accessible to EVERY BODY!
She serves as a comforting guide on your wellness journey through various holistic healing modalities such as yoga, meditation, breathwork, reiki energy healing, integrative nutrition health coaching, sound healing, special events, workshops and retreats. Laura integrates her passion for mental health care, nature and travel into her services.
She has been teaching yoga full time since 2015 and practicing for almost 20 years leading several successful local, domestic and international yoga retreats throughout that time, most recently in February 2025 in Inverness, Florida.
Dr. Nicole Edwards
SolRiver Arts School for Women & SolRiver Counseling, LLC
PhD Clinical Sexology / Licensed Mental Health Counselor / E-RYT 500/ Feminine Empowerment Coach / Vedic Thai-Yoga Bodywork Practitioner
Dr. Nicole Edwards blends clinical expertise with embodiment practices to guide individuals towards profound self-discovery and healing. Her private practice addresses diverse concerns related to relationships, sexuality, and personal growth, providing a foundation for her holistic approach.
Beyond clinical work, her workshops and retreats at SolRiver Arts integrate RYT-500 yoga, expressive arts, sensual somaticism, and archetypal psychology. Through intuitive movement, poetry, Vedic Thai-Yoga bodywork, and guided inquiry, she fosters safe and nurturing spaces for deep connection, personal transformation, and joy. Dr. Edwards's unique integration of psychological and somatic techniques creates a comprehensive path for those seeking to integrate mind, body, and spirit, empowering them to navigate life transitions and cultivate lasting well-being.
Currency: Costa Rica accepts USD, but it is advisable to take out the local currency- Colones. You can stop at an atm to do this while on the shuttle ride to the retreat center.
Bank: Notify your bank and credit card companies of your dates of travel, ask if they have any limits on the amount of money you can withdraw when out of the country.
Phone: Contact your wireless provider to discuss international rates and the possibility of setting up an international plan. If you have an unlocked cell phone, you can easily buy a SIM CARD so that you can use your phone while it is off of Wi-Fi.
Time Zone: Costa Rica is on Central Standard Time (CST)
Voltage: 110 volts, 2 prongs
Requirements to ENTER and EXIT the country: All non-resident travelers must have a valid passport and possess a return ticket of when they intend to exit the country (within 90 days of arrival).
*Please inquire if a VISA is needed to enter Costa Rica from your country of origin.
*Please visit your country's tourism site for tips and alerts.
-Reusable water bottle (filtered water on-site)
-Converters if needed, plugs are 110V (the same as North America)
-Journal/Pens
-Sunscreen
-Hat, Sunglasses
-Bug Spray
-Anti-itch cream
-Ear plugs
-Headphones or ear buds
-Flashlight (if battery operated, bring extra batteries)
-Mini umbrella
-Light raincoat/poncho
-Sneakers or hiking shoes
-Flip Flops
-Bathing Suit
-Daywear
-Yoga clothes
-Layers: long sleeved shirt, long pants
-Pajamas
-Light Beach Towel
-Excursion Backpack
-Waterproof bags
-Hand fan or portable fan
-Snacks
-Toiletries
-Papaya Enzymes (digestive support)
-Glasses/Contacts
-Any prescription and non-prescription medications
-Yoga mat (or use one on-site and travel lightly)
-English children's books to donate to local staff and other community families
-Cash for wellness services
*Please note:
-Laundry services are available, $15 per load
-Temperatures can be cooler in the morning and drop at night
Private & Shared, Ensuite Bathrooms
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner both on and off site. Dietary restrictions accommodated. *Note- dinner only on arrival day and breakfast only on departure day.
Vinyasa and Hatha
Shuttle To/From Liberia Airport
La Leona Hike & Tubing
Mistico Park Hanging Bridge and Hike
Ecotermales- Hot Springs
El Choyin River- Thermal River and Mud Bath
Led by Shamans from Mexico
Experience a transformative evening of cacao, sound, and dance
A systematic guided meditation to draw you within to your bliss layer
Various styles
Also, known as sylvotherapy or nature therapy
Not all who wander are lost
Group gatherings
Mats, blocks, bolsters, blankets, straps, cushions
If you choose to use it
No need for plastic water bottles
Essential oil based
Please try to use your towels more than one time
In-room
In-room
In every room
Fireplace, indoor & outdoor seating, buffet style meals
Unlimited in the restaurant
Yoga Shala, Meditation Labyrinth, Waterfall Dipping Pool,
Relax on property and/or visit nearby towns of Arenal and Fortuna
Highly recommended!
Wine served at restaurant
Massage, Thai Vedic Bodywork, Private Reiki, Feminine Empowerment sessions, Sauna
If applicable
Non-alcoholic beverages
Drivers, staff, etc
5-6pm
A living laboratory in service to regenerative living and co-evolution with Nature. A regenerative biosphere, a treasure of biodiversity, Mystica Lodge will be our home and support amidst our rooting, rising and reviving for the next 7 days.
*Welcome snacks and drinks will be provided.
6:30pm
Gentle Yoga Stretch
7pm
Dinner at Mystica Restaurant
7:45/8pm
Welcome Circle and Bonfire
*Schedule subject to change
Observing Silence (Mauna)
Each morning, we will observe what’s referred to in Buddhist traditions as “Mauna”. Imagine lowering blood pressure and cultivating self-awareness while nurturing inner calmness and mental clarity. Just how, you wonder? Mauna is a sacred practice of limiting one's speech; of being intentionally silent, a discipline through which spiritual experiences can arise.
7am Tea and Coffee
7:30am Morning Devotion: Meditation and Pranayama
8am Rooting Yoga Practice: We begin with morning reflection on our theme for the day, settling, at the Mystica Yoga Shala. Embody the whisperings of your inner Madre Tierra, Mother Earth, through yoga and movement. Allow the music to move you into compassionate reverence for nature and the earth as you connect to her deeper message of grounded stillness while listening to the flowing river next to you.
9am Breakfast
10am Tour of grounds + Nature Hike + Forest Bathing
FREE TIME Enjoy Mystica Sauna, Massage, Reiki, Waterfall Dipping Pool, Relaxing in Hammock
1pm Lunch at Mystica Restaurant
FREE TIME Enjoy Mystica Sauna, Massage, Reiki, Waterfall Dipping Pool, Relaxing in Hammock
4pm
-Group Labyrinth Activity
-Yin Yoga at the Mystic Shala River with Vedic Thai Yoga Bodywork in Savasana
6:30pm Dinner at Mystica Restaurant
7:30pm Gather around the fire + Fire Gazing Meditation
*Schedule subject to change
Observing Silence (Mauna)
7am Tea and Coffee
7:30am Morning Devotion Meditation and Pranayama
8am Balance Yin/Yang Yoga Practice We begin with morning reflection on our theme for the day, balance. Allow the music to move you into mindfulness, stability, & harmony as you connect to a deeper message of playful living.
9am Breakfast
10:15am Full Day Group Excursion
-Mistico Park- Hanging Bridge Hike
-El Choyin Thermal River and Mud Bath- Venture into its natural thermal waters, unmanicured beauty, and natural mud bath along the riverbanks!
-Ecotermales Volcanic Hot Springs- A multi-sensory wellness experience, where varied thermal pools and stunning Arenal Volcano views provide a backdrop for leisure. Enjoy the option to relax with a drink at the swim-up pool bar
-Dinner at the hot springs
*This day trip allows you to balance between both curated relaxation and the raw, natural landscapes of Costa Rica; a dual exploration of comfort and wilderness!
10pm Arrive back at Mystica
*Schedule subject to change*
Observing Silence (Mauna)
7am Tea and Coffee
7:30am Morning Devotion: Meditation and Pranayama
8am Exploration Yoga practice
9am Breakfast
10am Vision Walk: Lessons from Nature-
Come back to nature as you strengthen your intuitive knowing. Ground into her lessons of who you are as an individual and as part of the collective. What is that one burning question you’ve been desiring the answer for? Find yourself hiking amidst a lush green canopy as you are guided through your heart’s journey to find the answer.
FREE TIME
1pm Lunch at Mystica Restaurant
3pm Temazcal Ceremony, Sweat Lodge, is a pre-Hispanic rite and at the same time a steam bath of medicinal and aromatic herbs used in traditional medicine and that is normally carried out in the area of Mesoamerica.
6pm Dinner at Mystica Restaurant
7:45pm Sacred Dreaming: Ecstatic Dance Journey
Experience a transformative evening of cacao, sound, and dance.
Journey inward with the spirit of cacao, a heart-opening guide to clarity and insight. With this sacred medicine, we set our intentions and unleash our wildest dreams that are amplified within our moon-lit portal! Unleash your spirit in ecstatic dance. Let the music move you, freeing your body and soul in a joyful expression of movement and connection, a journey all your own.
Finally, be embraced by a magical sound journey, the healing vibrations of crystal singing bowls, a symphony of sound that recalibrates your being, cradling you in deep calm and tranquility preparing you for sleep.
Observing Silence Mauna
7am Tea and Coffee
7:30am Morning Devotion: Meditation and Pranayama
8am Discovery yoga practice
We embark this morning, charting a course for inner discovery. Explore the uncharted territories within, where your inner waterfall murmurs secrets through yoga and movement. Allow the music to be your compass, navigating you towards mindfulness, stability, and harmony. Unearth the deeper message of playful living, a treasure waiting to be found within.
9am Breakfast
FREE TIME Enjoy Mystica Sauna, Massage, Reiki, Waterfall Dipping Pool, Relaxing in Hammock
10:30am Leave for Tour
1pm La Leona Waterfall Hike and Tubing Adventure & Lunch
Embark on a voyage of discovery with the La Leona Waterfall hike and tubing adventure. Journey through river canyons and lush terrain, revealing the stunning La Leona Waterfall, a true gem of the region. Then, experience the thrill of discovering the river's course as you tube through its waters, gaining a new perspective on this wild environment!
6:30/6:45pm Dinner at Mystica Restaurant
7:45pm Gather around the fire, jam session
Observing Silence (Mauna)
7am Tea and Coffee
7:30am Morning Devotion: Meditation and Pranayama
8am Yoga practice & Stream of Consciousness Writing
9am Breakfast
FREE TIME Enjoy Mystica Sauna, Massage, Reiki, Waterfall Dipping Pool, Relaxing in Hammock, Venture into Arenal or Fortuna
4pm Tea Ceremony, & Jungle Vocal Circle
6pm Dinner
7/7:15pm Closing Circle w/Yoga Nidra & Reiki
7am Tea & Coffee
7:30am Breakfast
*Packing, Settle your wellness services with the front desk
9am Shuttle to airport
