From Struggle to Strength

Reset & Recharge with Mindfulness and Neuroscience

Tulum, Mexico

Date TBD

If you’re a high-achieving, successful professional who has ever felt stressed, overwhelmed, or burned out and seeks to reset and recharge with an evidenced-based approach, then join us for this transformative retreat, so you can navigate life's challenges with resilience, fostering a path towards balance, peace, and joy.

Is this you?

  • Navigating turbulent times like burnout, career changes, life transitions, or needing an annual "tune-up" for your mental health, seeking rejuvenation and mental clarity.

  • Ready to move beyond hostels and all-inclusive resorts, the party scene and unhealthy indulgences like over-eating/drinking, so that you return home truly relaxed, not feeling like you need another vacation.

  • Wanting solo travel without feeling alone; prioritizing safety, care, and the opportunity to connect with like-minded people before the retreat starts, ensuring a supportive and psychologically safe environment without mean, toxic individuals.

  • Prefer a retreat experience that's grounded in science, not overly mystical or commercialized, supporting mental health without heavy emphasis on yoga.

  • Finding “your kind of people” who also appreciates deep conversations over small talk; valuing discussions about hopes, dreams, vulnerabilities, and doubts over gossip and superficial chatter.

Picture this

You step into a serene hideaway nestled in the lush jungles of Tulum and captivating shores of Akumal. Here, nature's symphony fills the air as the breeze whispers through vibrant flora and fauna.

Basking in the gentle sunlight dancing through the leaves, your shoulders relax and your heart opens. The morning's workshop sparked a new sense of empowerment and understanding, illuminating your path of self-discovery, sureness, and direction.

Embraced by the warm Mexican sun, you exhale contentedly, feeling safe, understood, and authentically connected to your fellow companions. 

Inspired by this tapestry of beauty and wonder, you feel grateful for bringing yourself here. 

Healing is a journey, and you’re not alone.

Reasons to attend

  • Elevate your self-awareness, gaining insights into your habits and thought patterns to make intentional, positive changes.

  • Transform your relationship with self-care/love, experience the transformative power self-compassion.

  • Practice healthy habits, making small, sustainable changes that ripple into significant improvements.

  • Develop practical tools and strategies to manage stress, anxiety, and overwhelm, creating a foundation for lasting well-being.

  • Foster a growth mindset, expand your perspective on challenges, developing effective strategies to navigate life's complexities.

  • Forge authentic connections with like-hearted people, leaving with a supportive community who understands and uplifts each other.

Retreat transformations

Psychologist of a retreat participant, during a therapy session post-retreat:

“I’m really amazed at the before-after change. It’s one of the best investments you could’ve made for yourself.”

Friend of retreat alumni, Alex:

“It’s incredible how solid you are following this trip, and how well you manage the challenges that come your way now. It’s like a new Alex, I am so proud and happy that you did that for yourself.”

I want this. I need this.

Alumni testimonials

The venue

Dora Resort

Previously known as Paledora Eco Resort, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Riviera Maya jungle in Mexico, located just 15 minutes from Tulum and 10 from Akumal (known as the "Place of the Turtles" in the Mayan language), offers a tranquil sanctuary away from the crowds.

Surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking natural beauty, this eco-friendly haven invites you to unwind, heal, and reconnect with both yourself and the natural world.

We carefully selected Dora for its commitment to biodiversity and land preservation, active involvement in the local community, and dedication to cultural knowledge exchange. Its thoughtfully designed jungle villages provide the ideal setting for purposeful group travel and conscious communities, where work and meaning align, and individuals strive for a balanced sense of self.

Indulge in the comfort of the spacious suites, each adorned with modern amenities. With air conditioning and private bathrooms in every bedroom, you'll find the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. The diverse indoor and outdoor living spaces create an inviting atmosphere for heartfelt conversations, introspection, and moments of quiet solitude.

During your stay, get ready to be captivated by an array of extraordinary onsite experiences that will ignite your imagination. Immerse yourself in ancient wellness rituals like the transformative Temazcal ceremony, where hot lava rocks create a rejuvenating sweat lodge experience. Dive deep into a sound healing bath held within a natural cave, a truly immersive and soul-nourishing journey.

Find solace and inspiration at the palapa yoga shala, nestled amidst plush cushions and rugs, where you can nourish your body and soul through activities like yoga, journaling, massage, art, or a cacao ceremony.

Explore the wonders of the region, with the last protected beach of the Riviera just a short 5-minute drive away. Discover the world-renowned dive site of Dos Ojos just 10 minutes away, or explore the four nearby cenotes, each within walking distance of Dora. Plus, as our guest, you'll have exclusive access to the secret private cenote, offering a refreshing and secluded oasis for a dip at any time of the day.

When you're ready to venture beyond the sanctuary and embrace the natural wonders that surround us, experience the magic of swimming alongside sea turtles in the ocean. Our guided excursions, led by a local youth venture from the Akumal community, emphasize sustainable travel practices and a deep commitment to nature preservation.

Retreat experiences

  • Cenote bike adventure

  • Snorkel with sea turtles in Akumal

  • AZULIK museum visit, lunch at Jungle Cuisine, private sound healing bath experience

  • Spider monkey sanctuary visit

  • Neurographic art therapeutic session

Additional experiences*

  • Temazcal (sauna sweat lodge) ceremony

  • Cacao ceremony

  • Secret cave sound healing

  • Massage spa therapy

  • Exclusive jungle trek to Mayan sanctuary: Bioregion Muuch Xiimbal

  • Make your own ceramic

  • and more! *at your own expense

The cuisine

Immerse yourself in a culinary journey that embodies the essence of holistic wellness at Dora Resort. The talented onsite chef and dedicated catering team are passionate about creating a menu that goes beyond mere sustenance, providing nourishment for both your body and soul, while catering to vegetarian, vegan, gluten free options and common food allergies.

Drawing inspiration from the bountiful flavours of the Caribbean Sea and the lush jungle surroundings, the dishes celebrate the vibrant and diverse local ingredients.

Prepare to be amazed by the imaginative and health-conscious cuisine. Discover the delightful harmony of avocado bruschetta, the irresistible richness of sunflower seed cheese, and the bold and tangy flavours of chilaquiles in red salsa. Indulge in the mouthwatering shrimp or mushroom Muladhara tacos, and treat yourself to the luscious mango mousse with a hint of cacao.

The food not only delights the taste buds but also inspires a deeper connection with healthy and nutritious eating. Beyond the retreat experience, we encourage you to view it as a form of medicine that nurtures a healthy body, a clear mind, and a vibrant soul.

I will prioritize my well-being.

On this retreat, you will

Reset

Experience the power of neuroscience. Engage in enlightening workshops and transformative activities that provide you with a deep understanding of your mind. Learn to reset your mental state, reduce stress, and nurture your well-being with evidence-based strategies.

Recharge

Immerse yourself in physical and emotional rejuvenation. Embark on a journey of self-care through yoga sessions, captivating excursions, and moments of serenity as you swim in the oceans alongside sea turtles and float in crystal-clear cenotes. Feel the energy return to your body and soul.

Reconnect

Rediscover the joy of connection, with nature, yourself, and kindred spirits. Bond with like-hearted souls, share your stories and personal journeys, and find support and inspiration in one another. Foster deep friendships and a profound sense of belonging.

The program

We only teach what we know. Throughout the retreat, you'll engage in mindful practices, participate in inspiring workshops, and embark on nature excursions that unveil the wonders of the surrounding jungle and sea.

There are no shortcuts when it comes to your mental wellness, but with our carefully crafted program and nurturing atmosphere, we’ve set the perfect foundation for profound breakthroughs and personal growth.

  • Step into Paledora as it welcomes you into the sanctuary during our shared voyage towards wellness. Connect with fellow travellers as we lay the foundation of our journey of rest, reflection, and resilience.

    As the day comes to a close, find comfort under a canopy of stars as you feel a profound sense of gratitude for the journey you've embarked upon.

  • Today invites you to embrace the power of your breath, nurturing a deep connection with your inner self. Awaken your body and mind with a gentle yoga/stretch session in the serene ambiance of our palapa studio. Delve into the fascinating realm of neuroscience, exploring the intricate relationship between hormones, behaviour, and the profound connection between your gut and brain.

    Embrace ample free time, allowing you to integrate and practice the new breathing techniques you’ve learned. Immerse yourself in the tranquil waters of the ocean, feeling the rhythm of your breath harmonize with the gentle currents as you swim alongside majestic sea turtles.

  • Begin to connect with your body as we delve into somatic therapies and the science behind them. Explore the connection between the physical body and emotional wellbeing, as well as self-soothe techniques that work for you.

    Then immerse yourself in everything you learned — feel the difference of your body and mind as we float in the crystal-clear waters of cenotes — and experience mindfulness in not one, but three of the most beautiful natural pools on earth.

  • Connecting our body, breath, and mind as we embark on a meditative journey within the captivating architectural museum of AZULIK Uh May Sfer Ik, a true masterpiece in its own right. Here, we share our wisdom on stress management and the art of creating thriving conditions in our daily lives.

    After the invigorating session, indulge in a leisurely afternoon, allowing yourself to wander through the enchanting surroundings or simply bask in relaxation by the pool. And as twilight embraces the sky, let your creative spirit soar at the captivating evening fire circle, where vibrant music sets the rhythm and you paint your heart out without concern for artistic abilities. Let your creativity ignite and dance in the flickering flames.

  • Now is the moment to embark on a profound self-reflection journey, where we examine our habits, triggers, thought patterns, and coping mechanisms with unwavering honesty. Together, we explore the essential “fire alarms” and diligently practice the drills that equip us for the inevitable challenges awaiting us in our everyday lives. With unwavering support, we fortify our mental resilience and celebrate the remarkable progress we've achieved.

    As the evening unfolds, we surrender to the embrace of tranquility with a much-needed sound healing bath. Nestled within a hidden cave, this enchanting experience invites us to immerse ourselves in the soothing melodies and harmonious vibrations, forging an intimate connection with both nature and ourselves.

  • Through personalized one-on-one sessions with our experienced coaches, we will collaboratively develop custom prevention plans for your return home. It's time to implement these strategies through our comprehensive after-care program, which combines at-home practices, group support, and ongoing coaching assistance.

    As a well-deserved reward for your commitment and growth, indulge in the excursions that have captured your imagination since day one. Whether it's exploring awe-inspiring beaches or Mayan ruins, or embracing unique cultural experiences like the Temazcal or cacao ceremony, savour the joy and fulfillment that await you during this enriching journey.

  • At this stage of your journey, you have diligently practiced and built a strong foundation of positive habits. Today you feel an unwavering sense of confidence within you. Your journey has equipped you with better boundaries, empowering self-talk, and renewed energy.

    In the company of your newfound friends, you proudly share the wisdom you have gained from your own experiences and the collective knowledge you have gathered along the way. Together, you have supported one another in overcoming limiting beliefs, fostering growth, and embracing transformation.

  • You stand revitalized, relaxed, and ready to face any challenge that life presents with resilience and grace. Embracing a kinder, more compassionate relationship with yourself, you possess a profound understanding of what brings you joy and fulfillment, empowering you to make choices that align with your well-being.

    As you bid farewell, you carry with you a wealth of evidence-based tools and effective communication skills. With a profound sense of gratitude, you celebrate the beginnings of your healing journey and the positive impact it will continue to have on your life.

At The Healing Journey, we understand that the journey doesn't end when the retreat concludes. While enjoying a transformative trip is truly remarkable, the real test comes when you return home. That's why our optional after-care program is designed to support you in transitioning back to your familiar surroundings, with ongoing check-ins and group sessions tailored to your needs. We're here to help you maintain and build upon the progress you've made, long after the retreat has ended.

This retreat IS for you if you

  • Seek a Mental Health Focus: You've thought about taking a break or sabbatical to prioritize your mental health. You may have taken a leave from work in the past, and you're due for a "tune-up" for your well-being.

  • Aren’t the Typical Yoga Enthusiast: You've considered yoga retreats but are hesitant about the overdose of downward dogs. Our yoga is optional, allowing you the freedom to sleep in or take a rejuvenating swim in the cenote instead.

  • Have an Evidence-Based Curiosity: You're drawn to neuroscience and podcasts like Dr. Huberman's for a deeper understanding of the mind. You're curious about practical, evidence-based methods for self-discovery and personal growth.

  • Appreciate a Balance of Challenge and Solitude: You appreciate gentle nudges outside your comfort zone and value moments of quiet introspection equally.

  • Crave Authentic Connections: You desire a judgment-free space, appreciate authenticity, where it's okay not to be okay, allowing for rest, tears, and retreat without pressure to appear happy all the time.

  • Value Vulnerability and Depth: You appreciate genuine conversations, vulnerability, and deep connections beyond the superficiality of social media. You resonate with: “Fill your life with experiences, not things. Have stories to tell, not stuff to show.”

  • Desire Meaningful & Mindful Travel: You want a curated winter escape, whether it's your first trip alone or an upgrade from hostels. You're looking to share a sustainable travel experience with like-hearted people.

This isn’t for people who

  • Are mean or toxic to others; kindness and respect are prerequisites. No assholes allowed!

  • Aren't willing to invest effort in personal growth or face occasional discomfort.

  • Aren’t willing to explore solutions or tools for change.

  • Aren't willing to be open, vulnerable and sharing any part of their journey.

  • Aren't willing to hold a curious, non-judgmental space for others.

I will put myself first.

Retreat facilitator

Anna Li

Hi, I'm Anna, the founder of Healing Journey Retreats. My own mental health recovery journey led me to start this business. Over the past decade of working in the tech industry, I went through cycles of burnout, anxiety, and depression. From the latest one, I decided to spend 3 months in Mexico, hoping this escape from Canadian winter would help my mental health. Coming out of the Cancun airport — feeling the sun on my face, warm air in my lungs, seeing lush green palm trees and flowers blossoming in full colour — my anxiety started to lift away.

The ocean, jungle, cenotes, fresh food and lovely people I met over the next weeks nourished my body, mind and soul. My tunnel of darkness was shortened by months if not years, had I not been here. Tulum gave me the space, time, and healing environment for my self discovery, mental clarity, resilience and courage to pursue my ‘Ikigai' — and this retreat was born. I wanted to redesign this deeply healing experience into a 7-night retreat, hoping it’d help others the way it did for me.

With my neuroscience background, I grasped how the brain works and why we experience hardships, which was helpful in my healing journey. It also took therapy, introspection, and finding other pillars—like yoga, art, journaling, taking rest, and winter travel—to support my mental well-being in a holistic way. Knowing that different tools work for different people, at this retreat, we’ll introduce you to various practices, so you can choose what resonates with you.

Why did I create this retreat?

In the vast landscape of wellness retreats, I noticed an unmet need. (As a Product Manager, I’m always thinking ‘what is the customer’s pain point?’) In Tulum, most retreats are all about yoga, meditation, and intense spirituality with crystals and sparkles. During my darkest time of burnout, I looked up mental health retreats, and every search led me to yoga retreats. But I was so anxious and depressed that the idea of doing yoga every day felt like climbing Mount Everest. And, I didn’t want to have to smile all the time (yes, I have severe RBF) or have this pressure to appear ok every day. I craved a retreat where I could be authentic, allowing myself moments to rest, cry, or skip a class without everyone asking “Are you ok?” But I still wanted some gentle nudges to get out of bed and do things, just at my own pace.

Then, dozens of conversations with folks revealed a shared sentiment — people ended up on yoga retreats, not because they love yoga, but because they needed a mental health break. That got me thinking — what if there was a retreat that had it all, including yoga, but without making you feel overwhelmed? A place where you could learn about the brain and relax in a stunning, comfortable, nature-immersed spot. That’s why I decided to create this retreat — a mix of relaxation, self-exploration, and community, for those who, like me, need something that fits just right.

Participant reviews

  • If it was possible, I would give more than 5 stars!

    It exceeded my expectations in every possible way, and in ways I never expected. Anna is kind and giving, both an astute business woman, carefully planning every aspect of the retreat and ensuring all details were dealt with prior to the retreat, as well as an empathetic person devoted to healing and sharing her wisdom from her own journey.

    What I liked about the retreat is that it balanced healing oriented learning rooted in neuroscience, using a collaborative workshop approach involving all participants, with daily planned activities to different venues engaging the senses that were healing and nurturing - from swimming with turtles, swimming in cenotes, visiting a monkey sanctuary and sound bathing.

    The venue was perfect, off the beaten track, secluded, peaceful with amazing food that was prepared fresh for every meal using local ingredients. There was also daily yoga. I felt grounded, rejuvenated, and supported, and came away feeling centred and calm.

    Would I attend again? In a heartbeat!
    - Suehila

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What’s included

  • 8 days 7 nights accommodations at the eco-luxurious jungle haven, Dora Resort

  • 3 delicious meals per day made with love

  • Inspiring workshops and supportive mastermind discussions

  • Snorkelling with sea turtles in Akumal

  • Visiting AZULIK Uh May Sfer Ik, a world-renowned experiential museum

  • Lunch at Jungle Cuisine

  • Guided sound bath healing experience

  • Mindful eco-conscious cenote bike adventure with our local guides

  • Spider monkey sanctuary visit

  • Neurographic art therapeutic session

  • Sharing circles

  • Optional yoga + meditation

  • Unlimited dips in the onsite private cenote with waterfall

  • Self-care time to connect with nature, local gems and yourself

  • Land transfers to and from Cancun International Airport (CUN)

  • Optional aftercare community

  • Travel agent fee*

What’s not included

  • Flights

  • Travel and medical insurance

  • Spa treatments

  • Additional experiences, tours, excursions

  • Additional taxi rides, laundry, gratuities for house staff

Investment & pricing

The retreat cost is an investment in your well-being:

  • Single Occupancy: $5497 USD, Early bird: $4997 USD

  • Double Occupancy: $4497 USD, Early bird: $3997 USD

  • Triple Occupancy: $3997 USD, Early bird: $3497 USD

Small groups, profound connections

With only 20 spaces available to start with, we aim to create an intimate and exclusive experience where each participant receives personalized attention and support. Spots are allocated on a first-come-first-served basis based on the clearance of deposits and a successful intake call with the retreat facilitator.

I’m ready to invest in myself.

 FAQs

  • We understand that healing from mental health issues is a complex and can take time to address fully. While a one-week retreat may not provide a complete resolution, it can be a valuable step towards healing and personal growth. During the retreat, you will have dedicated time to focus on your well-being, engage in therapeutic activities, and gain valuable insights and tools to continue your healing beyond the retreat. While the retreat serves as a catalyst for positive change, long-term healing involves ongoing support and integration of the practices and learnings into your daily life. Our aim is to provide you with a meaningful experience and equip you with the resources to continue your healing journey beyond the retreat.

  • We understand that the wellness retreat industry is vast and diverse, with various retreats catering to different beliefs and practices. While we respect the personal choices and spiritual beliefs of individuals, we prioritize evidence-based knowledge rooted in science in our retreat offerings. We are dedicated to offering authentic and evidence-based practices that prioritize your mental health and well-being. Rest assured, our retreat is not involved in the mentioned activities.

  • Absolutely! Our retreat embraces individuals with diverse backgrounds, including those with spiritual or religious inclinations. We value open-mindedness and respect for different perspectives. While our retreats are rooted in evidence-based knowledge and scientific principles, we understand the significance of spirituality in many people's lives. You are more than welcome to join us and explore the intersection of spirituality and science. Our aim is to provide a supportive and inclusive environment where you can deepen your understanding, engage in meaningful discussions, and discover new perspectives while experiencing the benefits of our evidence-based retreat program.

  • We completely agree that safety is a top priority when choosing a travel destination. Akumal and Tulum are located in Quintana Roo's Riviera Maya, where tourism plays a significant role in these coastal areas, therefore its communities are well aware of the importance of maintaining a safe and welcome environment for visitors. The growing expat community in the region further indicates a sense of safety and security. Lastly, it's important to stay informed about travel advisories from your home country or international authorities for the latest information.

  • Yes we do. We understand that this is an investment (in yourself and your mental health), and we’ll do our best to find an arrangement that allows you to attend without financial stress. We know how much quality time passes by when you’re not at your norm/best, and money you can always replenish, whereas time you cannot. From Early Bird Pricing, to financing payment plans, to potentially volunteer/service exchange, please contact us to discuss these options.
    We will also offer shorter (1-3 day) retreats in Ontario/Quebec Canada, sign up to our newsletter here to stay tuned.

  • We understand that it may feel challenging to carve out time for self-care and personal growth. However, it's essential to prioritize your mental health and well-being. Being burned out is exactly why you need to take time out and fill yourself up. By investing in this retreat, you are making a valuable commitment to your overall health and happiness. Remember, self-care is not selfish; it's a necessary foundation for being there for both yourself and your loved ones. If this retreat date/location doesn’t work for you, sign up to our email list for other upcoming retreats.

  • Yes, we will work with the venue to try and accommodate common dietary restrictions and food allergies. We have vegetarian, vegan and animal protein options. All baked goods & tortillas are gluten free. Please let us know about your dietary needs when you book.

  • Our days typically begin around 8 to 8:30am. We invite you to listen to your body and take rest in beauty and quiet whenever needed. You are welcome to participate in the activities that resonate with you and skip those that don't align with your interests or energy levels. Our aim is to create a supportive environment where you can tailor your experience and prioritize your self-care and personal well-being. Please note, all of the four included Retreat Experiences listed are booked ahead of time, and if you do choose not to participate in them, it will not result in a refund.

  • A partner or friend is welcome, just be sure you both indicate “Double Occupancy” when booking and that you want to be in the same room. The beds can be arranged as 1 king bed or 2 single beds. If you have 2 friends you’d like to bring, it’s possible to have the 3 of you in one room for a reduced cost, please contact us for details. Kids and pets unfortunately can’t join.

  • Mental health is a vulnerable area of ours lives, therefore we have chosen an intimate venue and a small group of 10. We do an intake call with every participant when booking to confirm their alignment with the retreat. After registration, you’ll get to know everyone through the private messaging group. There will also be meet-and-greet video calls to meet the ones who will be joining you. Click here to join one of the Meet-up Circles to meet the fellow participants!

    We have a zero-tolerance policy for abuse and harassment of any kind. During the retreat, if there are complaints about a participant’s behaviour or if the facilitators feel that a participant is disrupting the safety or harmony of the group, the participant will be asked to leave. Our facilitators are exceptionally trained in crisis and conflict management, and it is our top priority to ensure a safe space for all.

  • If you would like to be matched with a roommate, please let us know, and we’ll do our best to pair you with someone else who is also seeking a roommate. Then you’ll have a chance to meet and get to know your fellow traveler during our pre-trip online gatherings.

    In case there is no one to pair you with, your room will be considered a single, and an additional single-occupancy supplement will be added to your retreat fee.

  • We offer roundtrip transportation from and to Cancun International Airport if you are there at the appointed time range. If you arrive outside of it, we can help you arrange your own taxi to the retreat centre at your expense.

    If you want to extend your stay before or after the retreat by arriving early and/or leaving later, we’re happy to offer recommendations on nearby lodging and transportation arrangements.

  • In April, historically, the average daily temperature is around 29°C (about 84°F), while night temperature is around 23°C (73°F). However, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip, as weather patterns can vary from year to year.

    Rest assured, we’ll send you a suggested packing list after registration and closer to the trip departure date.

  • Yes, we highly recommend travel insurance that includes trip cancellation, medical coverage, or “cancel for any reason” as a feature. Feel free to ask our Merit Travel agent about travel insurance options.

    And be sure to confirm with your travel insurance provider what COVID-19-related issues are covered and to what extent. Always check the government official websites for travel advisories and COVID-19 travel requirements in your home country as well as your destination.

  • Feel free to email us, chat (WhatsApp), schedule a call, or fill out the form in the Contact Us section below with any further questions.

Contact us

Retreat location: DORA Resort

Camino Acceso a Pozos de Capa, Manzana 50 Lote 34, Predio el Venado,

77774 Cdad. Chemuyil, Q.R., Mexico