Self Mastery Retreats International is proud to present a transformative experience specifically designed BY Black Men, FOR Black Men. This immersive retreat offers a unique opportunity for Black Men to forge deep bonds, enhance their personal growth, and empower themselves to create positive change in their lives, families, and communities. 

For 5 days in the sacred surroundings of Puerto Morelos, Mexico, a select group of powerful Black Men will embark on a journey of self-discovery, creating a safe and supportive space to share their experience and build a strong sense of community. Recognizing the challenges of racism and systemic barriers that Black Men face in achieving their goals, supporting their families, maintaining employment, and building businesses. This retreat aims to replenish their energy and provide them with valuable tools to manifest their dreams. Participants will engage in transformative activities, gain new insights, and develop strategies to overcome obstacles.

This retreat is an opportunity to make an investment in your life, family, and generations to come.  Register now to participate in this dynamic global experience.

• Learn the Seven Keys to Self Mastery to co-create the life you desire
• Rest and relax in the calming Caribbean Sea and tropical Mayan jungle
• Decompress from the stress of the daily grind and replenish your energy
• Connect with and build a supportive global network
• Participate in traditional healing practices 
• Return home feeling energized and inspired 

Welcome to Self Mastery Retreats International, co-created by Omar Buckner and Dr. Gerald Hassell, where we are dedicated to empowering individuals to unlock their full potential. Our mission is to create transformative international retreat experiences that equip individuals with the essential tools and strategies for self mastery.

We believe everyone has the innate ability to achieve greatness. Our carefully curated retreats are designed to provide a nurturing environment for personal growth, allowing participants to tap into their inner strengths and capabilities. Our expert facilitators guide participants through transformative workshops, coaching sessions, and immersive experiences that facilitate deep self-reflection.

Join us at Self Mastery Retreats International and embark on a life-changing journey. Together, we will pave the way for personal transformation and help you reach new heights of self mastery.

Omar Buckner 

Omar seamlessly integrates his extensive experience and skills into creating transformative experiences. With over three decades of expertise in youth, organization, and community development, Omar is not only a masterful trainer and coalition builder but also a dedicated advocate for fostering connections and empowerment within marginalized communities.

His deep belief in the transformative power of the circle process is evident in his portfolio, which includes designing, developing, and facilitating Community Building, Racial Healing, Recovery, and Solidarity Circles. Omar's passion for building bridges between communities is reflected in his work, during the past three years, he has immersed himself in the vibrant cultures of Black and Indigenous communities across Latin America and the Caribbean.

As a co-creator of two international virtual circle series, Omar leveraged his expertise to enhance the capabilities of Black and Brown communities worldwide. With his wealth of experience and heartfelt commitment, Omar brings a unique blend of skills and dedication to his role as a Retreat Host, ensuring that every participant experiences profound growth and connection during their journey.

Gerald Hassell, Psy. D. 

Dr. Gerald Hassell is a highly dedicated individual who excels in various domains, including fatherhood, entrepreneurship, authorship, and the practice of self-mastery. He holds a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Wright State University and has expertise in human behavior. Over the course of the past twenty-five years, Dr. Hassell has made a remarkable and lasting impact on the lives of numerous generations of Black Men and their families. His approach to mental health, rooted in spirituality, has resonated profoundly with those he has served.

Dr. Hassell's contributions extend beyond his therapeutic work. He has authored two influential books that have become invaluable resources for personal growth and empowerment. "The Impact of Father Absence on African American Boys" sheds light on the critical role of fathers in the lives of their children. Additionally, "The Seven Keys to Self Mastery" provides readers with transformative insights and practical guidance on unlocking their full potential.

Through his unwavering commitment, Dr. Hassell continues to uplift and inspire individuals, empowering them to embark on a journey of self-discovery and self-mastery. His work serves as a guiding light for those seeking personal growth, helping them embrace their inherent capabilities and chart a course towards fulfillment. Driven by his passion and dedication, Dr. Gerald Hassell represents a beacon of inspiration, instilling hope and igniting positive change in the lives of those he touches.

Named after the Afro-Mexican Independence leader, José María Morelos. Puerto Morelos is a charming and authentic beach town and quaint fishing village. With warm and welcoming locals, Puerto Morelos offers off-the-radar beach destinations that are just as beautiful as the more extensive resort town beaches. 

Puerto Morelos remains an undiscovered hidden gem only 30 minutes north of Playa del Carmen and 15 minutes South of the Cancun Airport. This lesser-known fishing village is praised for its beautiful beach and coral reef. You’ll love the casual coastal feel of Puerto Morelos.

Puerto Morelos is widely considered a safe town like most of the Yucatan Peninsula. Most visitors to this chill beach town say they feel safe at any time of the day or nigh

Born from a vision to create a harmonious space that resonates with the rhythms of nature, Lunita is more than just a destination and it isn’t just built on the land, it’s crafted with heart, soul, and a commitment to creating a space that fosters a deep connection with Pachamama, the nurturing spirit of Mother Earth. 

Their core values are rooted in the profound respect for the natural world, offering a tranquil escape that stands in serene contrast to the clamor of city life.

At Lunita, they believe in the power of nature to restore and rejuvenate the spirit, providing an intimate backdrop for retreats that inspire and celebrate love in its purest form.

Each experience at Lunita is infused with the essence of local culture, honoring the vibrant heritage and the people who have nurtured this land for generations. Every moment is an opportunity to forge a deeper connection with nature and embrace the local customs that make this corner of the world uniquely enchanting. 

Registration & Check-In

Welcome Reception, Communal Blessing  & Taco Bar  

Retreat Overview, Orientation, & Quick Introduction Activity

Dinner & Dialogue

Awareness & Acceptance:  A new way of seeing, thinking, and being. Embracing who you are and the power you possess to Master your life:

Mindfulness Practice 

Breakfast Bonding

Workshop: The First Key to Self Mastery: Awareness - Ending the battle within, achieving personal power and peace.

Lunch

Workshop: The Second Key to Self Mastery: Acceptance - Accepting your ability to reconstruct your reality from a position of power. 

Conscious Conversations

Dinner & Dialogue at La Sirena

Action & Assessment: Examining and evaluating the results of your actions, thoughts, and behaviors.  Utilizing the knowledge, information, and behaviors to restructure your identity/way of being.

Mindfulness Practice

Breakfast Bonding:  The Third Key to Self Mastery: Action - Moving with greater awareness and acceptance of your power. 

Lunch

Cenote Excursion 

Workshop: The Fourth Key to Self Mastery: Assessment - Examining the cause and effect of your actions. 

Dinner & Dialogue 

Integration & Celebration: Using the power of emotion as a catalyst for change and transformation. The daily practice of acknowledging and embracing who you are and the power you possess to Master your reality. 

Mindfulness Practice 

Breakfast Bonding - Self Mastery as the Key to Physical, Emotional, and Mental Health 

Workshop:  The Fifth Key to Self Mastery: Integration - Internalizing a Self Mastery Mindset and Identity 

Lunch

Beach & Massage

Workshop: The Sixth Key to Self Mastery: Celebration - Acknowledging and validating your daily growth and discipline. 

Dinner & Dialogue

Self Mastery:  Making a commitment to the daily practice of disciplining your mind and body for the purpose of spiritual growth and service to others. 

Mindfulness Practice 

Breakfast Bonding - The Seventh Key to Self Mastery: Developing a daily practice that disciplines the mind and body for spiritual growth and service to others.

Lunch and Final Reflections on the Mastery Journey

Tree Planting Ceremony

Check-out