BE PRESENT Retreat for women Costa Rica, 2027!

Lauren, 2026 Costa Rica

Before coming to Costa Rica, I was exhausted in a way I don't think I had fully admitted to myself yet. I was constantly doing, leading, managing, planning, producing, and taking care of everyone around me. On paper, my life was good. I have a beautiful family, a successful career, and so much to be grateful for, but internally I felt disconnected from myself. I had spent so much time operating in masculine energy: achieving, pushing, solving, over-functioning, and proving. I realized I had become someone who struggled to rest, receive, soften, or even ask myself what I truly wanted. Deep down, I think I came to the retreat because I was craving peace, grounding, flow, and connection, even if I couldn't fully articulate it yet. What drew me in was the feeling of safety and authenticity. Nothing about Maria felt performative or transactional. I felt deeply seen before I even arrived. There was something about the combination of feminine energy, nervous system work, embodiment, nature, and intentional living that felt like exactly what my soul had been craving. I also loved that it wasn't about becoming someone new. It felt like an invitation to come back to myself. What surprised me most was how emotional and transformative slowing down could be. I came expecting relaxation and beautiful scenery, but what I experienced was a deep reconnection with myself. Through the stillness, the practices, the conversations, and the environment, I started realizing how much of my life had been lived on autopilot. I was also surprised by how supported and connected I felt with the other women. There was so much vulnerability, honesty, softness, and encouragement without judgment. For probably the first time in a long time, I felt like I didn't have to perform. One of the biggest breakthroughs for me was realizing: I've arrived. I don't have to keep chasing worthiness through achievement, productivity, or proving myself. There was a moment where I realized I no longer wanted to abandon myself by saying yes when I meant no, overextending just because I'm capable, or numbing myself through constant doing. I left with this deep understanding that I want to lead differently, with more softness, intuition, presence, and feminine energy. Less force. More flow. Instead of asking, "What should I do next?" I started asking, "How do I want to feel?" Since coming home, I've noticed I move through life differently. I'm more grounded, more intentional, and more connected to my body and emotions. I'm learning to receive instead of constantly give. To rest without guilt. To soften instead of always brace. To choose presence over autopilot. I also feel more clarity around the kind of life I want to create, not necessarily one built around more things or more accomplishments, but one rooted in feeling healthy, peaceful, connected, balanced, and alive.

Kyla, Wisconsin,2025 Costa Rica Retreat

I came to the retreat during a difficult season of life—feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, and spinning out of control. When I spoke with Maria, I realized this retreat was exactly what I needed. I made space in my life to attend, and it turned out to be a true necessity. My word for the week was Reconnect—to my true self, to the way I want to feel and live, especially within my family. Though I was practicing yoga, my mind was racing; I knew I needed to come back into my body and reconnect with my essence. Being in Costa Rica, surrounded by like-hearted women, was healing for my entire being. The retreat space felt like a sanctuary—safe, nourishing, and beautiful. From the healthy meals and serene surroundings to the yoga and soulful conversations, everything supported deep reflection and transformation. The beach was nearby, and the howler monkeys reminded us daily of our connection to nature. The sisterhood was powerful. We bypassed small talk and shared our truths—our sorrows, joys, and longings. It was a gift to step out of my role as a mother and remember who I was before that identity. Each woman brought something unique, and our bond was immediate and real. Working with goddess archetypes, especially Lilith, helped me remember the wild, fearless part of myself. The sunset cruise was a beautiful embodiment of that energy—dancing, laughing, and feeling free in our bodies. The cacao ceremony opened my heart, and in meditation I met an underwater goddess I plan to revisit this summer. These experiences weren’t just moments—they were catalysts. Maria created and held the space with such intuition and care. Our 1:1 session moved energy I didn’t even know was stuck and helped clarify my path forward. I now have a deeper sense of self, and a commitment to continue this work at home. I’ve created an altar, slowed down, let go of control—and my family has noticed the shift. This retreat changed me. I came back feeling lighter, more connected, and with tools to keep growing. I wholeheartedly recommend it to any woman ready to reconnect and rise.

Brenna, Chicago, 2025 Costa Rica Retreat

At the time I said yes to the retreat, I was holding so much for others that I hadn’t asked myself what I truly needed. I felt a quiet burnout, a longing to reconnect to my body, my creativity, and my feminine energy—the parts of me that had gone quiet under responsibility and routine. This retreat felt like sacred permission to pause. To receive. To remember myself. What Maria created was unlike anything I’ve experienced. The space was intentional, intuitive, and deeply nourishing. Her way of guiding—with such presence, curiosity, and zero pressure to “fix”—made it safe to be seen in all my layers. That kind of nonjudgmental support invited self-compassion I hadn’t allowed myself in years. The workshops, goddess activations, and ceremonies unfolded like an unwinding. I didn’t realize how much tension I’d been holding until it began to soften. Maria’s facilitation helped me access strength, sensuality, and trust within myself—and the time in nature helped it all land in my body. I’ll never forget the moment I jumped off the cliff during our rainforest adventure. That leap mirrored something bigger: my willingness to release fear and trust myself again. I left with a deeper connection to my feminine energy, and a quiet knowing that I don’t have to earn rest, joy, or love. I’m learning to lead myself from presence rather than pressure—and that is life-changing. Maria’s leadership was the medicine I didn’t know I needed. Her ability to hold space with clarity, warmth, and intuitive depth made this retreat not just powerful—but transformational. Would I recommend it? Without hesitation. Every woman deserves to experience this kind of sacred return to self.

Pam, Florida, 2025 Costa Rica Retreat

I said yes to the Goddess Retreat a year before it even happened—because something in me knew I needed it. But I had no idea how deeply it would open me. I came in with a heavy heart and a hard time forgiving myself. I didn’t even realize how closed off I’d become until I was given space to speak my truth and be held in safety. That’s when things started to shift. From day one, I felt a deep sisterhood. I only knew Maria, but I left with five women I now consider soul friends. We shared stories, laughter, tears—real connection without small talk. I could be 100% myself. The ceremonies were calming, the goddess activations were powerful, and the space Maria created gave me permission to finally let go. The sunset cruise and rainforest hike were magical—reminders that joy and healing can exist together. The accommodations were beautiful, the food was incredible, and the little touches made it feel like home. I felt cared for in every way. Since coming home, I’ve been listening more—to myself, to others, and to what life is showing me. I’m making decisions from my truth. I feel more connected to the goddess within me, more able to say no, and more willing to sit with my discomfort rather than avoid it. My biggest takeaway? Forgiveness. Grace. And a reminder that I deserve to do the work—for me. I’d recommend this retreat to any woman ready to reconnect with her fierce feminine and finally put herself first.

Leigh, Chicago, 2025 Costa Rica Retreat

I joined the Goddess Retreat following the breadcrumbs—burned out, emotionally exhausted, and craving nervous system relief. I didn’t fully know what I needed… I just knew something had to shift. Being in a space where I didn’t have to plan or make decisions was medicine. My system got to rest. The mornings were beautifully structured, the afternoons open and playful. There was space to learn, move, be still—and to be witnessed. It took me time to warm up (I’m a turtle!), but once I felt safe, I realized how supported I truly was. I loved having time for my own reflection while still feeling part of the collective. Jumping off the cliff during our rainforest adventure lives in my body—so does the moment I sat above the waterfall and realized just how grateful I was to have made it there. This retreat helped me reclaim my boundaries. I left knowing: I don’t need permission to choose myself. I’m allowed to disappoint others and still be safe. That’s power. My 1:1 session was a breakthrough—I feared I’d freeze up, but instead it became a healing experience of being seen without needing to prove anything. Since coming home, I feel more connected to my adult self and the goddess energy that’s alive and well inside me. I’m showing up from a place of deeper self-trust. Yes, I’d recommend this retreat to someone I love. It’s more than a retreat—it’s a return to your truth.

I.G. Chicago, 2025 Costa Rica Retreat

Before the retreat, I felt a quiet but persistent burnout—like I was always in “doing” mode and struggling to slow down. I realized how disconnected I’d become from stillness, from my own feminine energy, and from meaningful connections in my life. I also carried emotional heaviness I hadn’t fully acknowledged until I was given space to open up safely. That experience helped me release what I’d been holding, reconnect with myself, and start offering myself more grace and compassion. I left feeling lighter, more grounded, and ready to heal in a deeper way. I highly recommend Maria's retreats and coaching.

Lauren, Cal, 2025 Costa Rica Retreat

The retreat gave me a rare and precious sense of safety and belonging. From the moment I arrived, I felt the space was intentionally created for real connection and honesty. The authenticity of the group let me drop my guard and be fully myself without needing to perform or explain. Even though I only knew one person beforehand, I left with true friendships and a circle of women I now consider confidants. Our evenings were filled with heartfelt conversations and laughter, giving me the chance to talk through intimate challenges and feel truly heard. At times, my own insecurities about not being “enough” would surface, but the gentle encouragement and support helped me face those feelings instead of hiding. I’m grateful for the ongoing connection and empowerment this experience gave me—it continues to support me long after the retreat ended.

Julia, Texas, 2026 Costa Rica Retreat

Before I booked this retreat, I was running on empty. I was caught in the rat race of motherhood not enjoying my kids, just surviving the days. My body was starting to ache in ways that made me feel older than I wanted to feel, and somewhere along the way, I had lost touch with myself. I said yes because I've known this woman forever. I watched her transform, and I wanted some of that for myself. What didn't I expect? To feel more woman than I had in years. My femininity came alive in a way I hadn't anticipated—and honestly, it totally boosted my sex drive. That one caught me off guard in the best possible way. The moment that cracked something open for me was a one-on-one meditation where I spoke to my eight-year-old self. It was intense. Tender. And something I'm still sitting with. I also had a clarity I didn't have words for before. I'm entering a new era of motherhood. My kids are growing up and don't need me the same way anymore. That's not a loss. That's an invitation to come back to me. Since coming home, I'm different. I'm making space for stillness. I'm less reactive with my kids and I'm actually playing with them again. The body aches have quieted. And I move through my days with something I can only describe as more peace. If you've been watching someone else transform and thinking, I want that this is your sign to say yes.

Tanya, 2026 Costa Rica

Before Costa Rica, I was carrying anxiety and apprehension, searching for opportunities for solitude and self-reflection. What drew me to the retreat was the details provided about what was going to be included. The timing of the trip was perfect for where I knew I would be in my life at that moment. What surprised me most was the group dynamics. Everyone was working on some type of self-growth that overlapped among the group. I really enjoyed the morning working sessions, they provided good grounding for the remainder of the day. Since returning home, I feel less anxious and don't feel compelled to over-explain myself or make others feel more comfortable. My attention is more focused on me.

Angela, 2026 Costa Rica Retreat

Before I came to Costa Rica, I was coming out of a hard divorce and trying to find myself so I could be more present. My head ached and my whole left side ached. I was holding space for so many things and needed space to think, journal, and talk to other women. I said yes because Maria has been working with me for years. Before my divorce she was helping me connect with my mind and body to make the hard decisions I needed to make. I trust her, and I wanted to experience this retreat because of how she walks the life she leads. What surprised me most was seeing God's beauty in a deeper way. These beautiful yellow birds woke me up every single morning. The first morning I thought it was someone knocking on my door for my morning coffee, but they kept coming back. We had a day of three hours of silence, and that was a highlight. In that stillness I felt God telling me, "Be playful." Just like those birds, fluttering and flapping into one another, it looked so fun. I need to enjoy my community. Stop being so serious and worrying. What a waste of time. The breakthrough that has stayed with me: I need to stop shrinking. Stop beating myself up and give grace — but also stop making excuses. Less fear. Let go of control. Trust myself when making decisions. Since coming home, my body feels a lot lighter, with less pain in my side and back. I feel less fearful, and my power is arriving more and more.

Christi, Cali, 2026 Costa Rica Retreat

Before I came to Costa Rica, I was craving something more. More joy, more happiness, more contentment, more peace. I said yes to this retreat easily because Maria's very presence is calming and welcoming. In her presence, the daily weight of my life feels lessened. Choosing the retreat was an easy decision. What surprised me most was how seamlessly the women in the group interacted. It was fulfilling and fun. I felt gathered and supported in a way I didn't see coming. The clarity that has stayed with me since returning home is this: I complete myself. No one else can or should do that for me. There is a new sense of peace in my day-to-day because the need to be completed by someone else is being replaced by a quiet sovereignty. And that is changing how I show up. I interact with my family differently now, showing up as a whole person rather than looking for them to fill the gaps in my happiness.

Britney, Colorado, 2026+2024 Costa Ric

Before coming to Costa Rica, I was angry, disconnected, and scattered. My mind was consumed by busyness, distractions, my phone, and work—and I never allowed myself to sit with my thoughts or process what was truly affecting me. I wasn't healing my inner child, and that pain was showing up in ways that hurt the people I cared about most. My body was changing, and I struggled to feel grounded or in control. More than anything, I wanted to learn how to live in the present moment instead of constantly replaying the past or worrying about the future. I had done this retreat a couple of years ago, and it was truly life-changing —emotional, powerful, and deeply moving. It gave me the strength and clarity to make big changes in both my life and my career. What surprised me most was how different the experience felt the second time around. Instead of focusing on others, I gave myself permission to truly focus on what I needed. I love watching women show up fully for themselves and prioritize their own healing and it inspired me to do the same. It reminded me that it's okay to take up space, look inward, and give myself the same care and attention I so freely give to others. The moments that stayed with me most were the quiet ones—the silence and the conversations with other women that cracked something open in me. Coming home wasn't easy. I jumped right back into real life, back to work, surrounded by strong energy and overwhelming environments. But something had shifted. I started using tapping at work to calm myself in stressful moments. I pull cards, journal about what surfaces, and write in my gratitude journal each morning to start my days with intention. Being outside has become essential for my mental and emotional well-being. I'm also learning to let go of relationships that feel one-sided or make me feel invisible and instead focus on the love and support that already exist in my life. Most importantly, I'm learning to listen to my body and allow myself to rest when I need it, even if that just means pausing for 20 minutes instead of forcing myself to always be productive. This retreat didn't just give me tools. It gave me permission to heal, to ask for help, and to finally take up space.

Prerana, Michigan retreats

Before the retreat, I was experiencing significant stress, and my nervous system was fried from all the work. The weekend brought me significant peace and calmness. My brain stopped frying as my thoughts began to quiet. Maria is a brilliant teacher. She knew the exact practices that could bring me peace. She recommended that I slow down every activity I do and taught me how to keep adult-me in the driver’s seat, which brought me a feeling of safety. The somatic practices helped calm me down by bringing my body and mind into sync. Now, I feel more able to slow down my thoughts and use journaling as a practice. My advice to a woman considering this retreat? Don’t think. Just try. You’ll feel absolutely like a new person in two days.

Saadia, Michigan Retreat

I wanted to transition into fall and ease into the season with a clearer mind. During the retreat, I realized I could utilize different modalities and discover what works best for me when my mind starts racing or I don't feel grounded. The beach exercise and then getting lost (ironically) had the biggest impact on me. Now, I have a quick exercise I can return to when I need to feel regulated and grounded. My advice to a woman considering this retreat? Expand your horizons and open your mind to dealing with issues using different modalities and thinking outside the box. Plus, it's a great way to meet new women who are opening their minds. And the food was great and included in the retreat!

Shineka, Michigan retreat

Life has been LIFE-ing! Between personal challenges, responsibilities, and constantly showing up for others, I realized I needed to make time for ME. Something about Be Your Own Soulmate spoke to me, and I decided it was time to pour some of that love and energy back into myself. I realized that being strong doesn't mean carrying everything or always having it together. I became more aware of where I'm giving away my energy and that choosing myself isn't selfish. I left feeling more connected to myself and reminded that my peace matters, too. The energy leaks exercise and parts work really resonated with me. They helped me recognize patterns I've held onto and understand that while being strong has served me well, I don't always have to be the one holding everything together. I'm learning to put myself first without guilt, say NO without overexplaining, and allow myself to rest without feeling unproductive. I deserve the same love, patience, and grace I so freely give everyone else. My advice to a woman considering this retreat? GO! And don't overthink it like I initially did! LOL! Come with an open mind and heart. You'll laugh, reflect, connect with some amazing women, and discover things about yourself you didn't even realize needed attention. YOU are worth the investment!

Deb, Michigan retreat

Before the retreat, I had been experiencing a series of losses and illnesses, and my central nervous system had been off the rails. I kept telling myself I needed to find a retreat, and one day while doomscrolling TikTok at the dentist's office, I came across a video that looked like exactly what I needed. What shifted for me was the acknowledgment that it's OK to slow down and do nothing. I had actually recently asked someone if people really just sit and don't actively do anything—that was a completely foreign concept to me. This weekend showed me that it's not only OK, it's probably necessary to give your mind and body rest without demanding anything of it. The biggest realization for me was that I don't always have to do everything on my own and that I can accept help from others. The extended silent meditation also surprised me—I was anxious about being still for that long, but once I settled my monkey brain, it was surprisingly easy. And I don't have one wonky monkey—I have entire colonies running around. What feels more possible now is something I've been working on: developing a stronger practice to regulate my nervous system before it escalates to the point of being debilitating. I feel more self-aware of what I can do to help myself in the moment. To any woman on the fence—if you're looking to detach from everything outside and slowly, solely focus on yourself, without guilt or 'I should,' in a beautiful, peaceful environment full of nature and wonderful women, I don't see any reason why you wouldn't try it.

Nora, Michigan retreat

To any woman on the fence about coming, don't think twice. Book it. Before this retreat, I hadn't been able to relax in a long time. I was working full-time while finishing up my master's and my nervous system was very dysregulated. I found Maria on TikTok and the retreat seemed like exactly what I needed. Over the course of the weekend, I felt relaxed, at ease, regulated, peaceful, and connected — feelings I hadn't experienced in a long time. My biggest breakthrough moment was sharing my "energy leaks" with the group. I was met with understanding and support — I felt seen and heard, and received feedback for how I can show up more authentically in the future. For so long while my nervous system was in overdrive, I lost touch with my mind-body connection. Maria provided me with tools and practices to reunite my mind and body, and as I work to reintegrate them, I'm able to do less "numbing" of my feelings.

Becca, Michigan retreat

Coming off of dealing with some heavy personal stuff, I couldn't connect with my body. I arrived not knowing what to expect and left having realized I could trust myself and that it's okay to doubt. The silent day with no phones had the biggest impact on me. Removing outside stimulus and taking a few hours to connect in nature on my own gave me the space my life didn't allow for me to face myself. I sobbed on a forest floor, and it was just what I needed. Dropping into my body was easier than I anticipated when I took the time to breathe, connect, and drop my roots. What feels more possible now? Space. Taking up space, asking for space, protecting my energy. To any woman on the fence, you know in your soul, deep down, whether this is for you or not. I'd encourage you to take the leap. These women on the retreat became some of my favorite people.