The Night I Listened to My Body and Said No Which Became a Powerful Yes

I recently attended a retreat tucked deep in the rainforest of Costa Rica. It was an experience that challenged every part of me—and yet, it’s one I’m incredibly grateful for.

- WRITTEN BY SHERRY PARKS

The venue was an off-grid organic farm, nestled far from civilization. It felt like stepping back in time.

There was little connectivity (just a small outdoor Wi-Fi hut), no air conditioning, and minimal lighting. At night, we dined outside under a candlelit pavilion. I slept beneath a mosquito net, windows open, fans humming in the background, with the sounds of the rainforest lulling me to sleep.

If you're imagining a luxury resort, this was not that. But if you're looking to fully unplug from the busyness of everyday life—mentally, physically, and emotionally—this place delivered. I arrived knowing this wasn't going to be a vacation. Still, the level of simplicity surprised me. And yet... I adapted. In a strange way, it felt natural. My body remembered - almost on a DNA level.

The retreat schedule was full. Group activities began as early as 7:30 am and often ended late in the evening. We had midday breaks, but even those were filled with processing, journaling, or resting from the emotional intensity. I'm someone who embraces personal growth, and many of the practices were new to me, and they pushed me in ways I didn’t expect.