The Signature Retreat: A GBTQ+ Sacred Plant Journey

12/08/2024 - 12/14/2024

AS SEEN ON

In-Depth Retreat Overview

This retreat is for queer, gay, and bisexual men (cis or trans) of any age, body shape, race, and background.

The Jungle Gayborhood Signature Retreat:
A GBTQ+ Sacred Plant Journey

Welcome to the Signature Retreat, a unique 7-day retreat crafted for the queer community. Nestled in the majestic landscapes of Costa Rica's Diamante Valley, this experience is designed to reconnect you with your intrinsic wholeness in community, through a blend of sacred plant work, immersive encounters with nature, and holistic wellness practices.

This transformative retreat is meticulously crafted to guide you on a path of rediscovery and reconnection, leading you back to the core of your existence. At the heart of our endeavor lies the profound acknowledgment of interconnectedness – a potent catalyst for healing and growth. Just like the beautiful mycelium. Here, amidst the vibrant energy of the jungle, you will reclaim your innate birthright: a profound, nurturing connection with your authentic self, with others, and with the boundless and inherent queerness of the more than human world.

Anchored in compassion, trauma-informed care, and understanding, our program is designed to honor the unique journey of each participant, providing a safe and supportive space for exploration, healing, and thriving.

Embark on a carefully curated experience featuring two sacred plant ceremonies, expertly facilitated individual therapeutic preparation and integration sessions, and immersive intercultural healing practices. Engage in somatic practices to reconnect with the wisdom of your physical form, and embrace moments of serenity through contemplative practices.

Nourish your body and spirit with a diet designed to optimize both mental and physical well-being, while enjoying exhilarating excursions into the embrace of nature that offer opportunities for profound introspection, renewal, and engage in a mutual relationship with nature.

Guided by ancestral wisdom and a rich tapestry of contemporary therapeutic modalities emerging from scientific research findings, the signature retreat invites you to embark on a healing journey with the mycelium towards self-discovery and empowerment. Join us and experience the power of radical reconnection – a journey that transcends boundaries, ignites the soul, and encourages a deep sense of joyful thriving.

Our passion for creating experiences for the queer community has led us to create retreats that participants report as being one of the most impactful experiences of their lives.

What To Expect

This retreat is a container for queer individuals to come together and explore emotional intimacy with themselves, their community, and with nature. By experiencing these elements we can heal dynamics of shame, validation-seeking, and isolation and loneliness. We will co-create a space that allows us to honor our authentic and deepest needs. Our mission is to address all that you need to thrive as a queer person.

Retreat Programming

Every group and every retreat are unique experiences, just like leaves or snowflakes. We honor and welcome this diversity, while keeping a base that can support a deep and meaningful process.

From the first preparation calls, we will build and sustain a community space of safety, connection, and exploration. The practices and experiences offered will give you tools for lasting meaningful change. These will be achieved through:

Preparation: Building the Foundation (4 weeks - Virtual)

Physical and mental health screening process
1:1 facilitator preparation session and one live group session (90 minutes, to support community building, intention setting, preparation practices)
Supplementary 1:1 therapeutic coaching is offered if needed
Access to our preparation exercises and unique list of recommended readings

Signature Retreat: Experience the Magic Together (7 days - In-person)

2 sacred plant ceremonies
Group and individual preparation
Morning and evening practices of meditation, yoga, somatic practices, drawing, breathwork, authentic movement, and aerial yoga
Sharing circles
Group and individual exercises to explore:
- the body within the self and in community
- relationship with the more than human world
- states of presence
- authentic listening and communication
Guided meditations
Deepened exploration and understanding through guided journaling
Group and individual integration calls

Integration: Planting the Seeds for Lasting and Meaningful Changes (4 weeks - Virtual)

1:1 facilitator integration session
Three group sessions (to continue fostering community and accountability outside the retreat)
Integration practices (communicating about your experience, supporting yourself as you integrate back into everyday life)
Supplementary 1:1 therapeutic coaching is offered if needed

Who is this retreat for?

This retreat is open to all GBTQ+ men (cis and trans) of all ages, racial backgrounds, body shapes and sizes, neurodiversity, and HIV status - and all levels of practice and experience with yoga, meditation, and sacred plant ceremonies.
Those seeking a meaningful change in their life
Those who want to move towards joy and authentic relating
Those who want to delve deep and benefit from a transformative experience
Those who want to contribute to an authentic healing space for the queer community
Those looking to gain experience with plant medicine

What makes the Jungle Gayborhood unique?

Experiences crafted by queer people for queer people
Based within the specific phenomenology of the queer experience
Science-backed, honoring traditions and reviving uniquely queer traditions
Focused on community building, radical inclusivity and radical acceptance
Founded in ethics and best practices
Trauma-informed
Balancing the human, the spiritual, the scientific, the relational, and the sacred
Expert and thorough screening process and safety protocol
Engaged in reciprocity with local indigenous populations
Engaged in research with partner Universities and Research Institutes

What have past retreat participants reported about their sacred plant experiences?

Gained new or deeper insights into their lives
Experienced emotional intimacy in the queer community
Deepened self-understanding and personal growth
Experienced deeper resilience
Accessed an increased sense of well-being and deeper sense of joy
Explored new boundaries of creativity
Found a greater sense of purpose and direction
Found new tools to thrive from minority stress, trauma, and addiction
Felt supported through a deeper sense of connection to self, others, and nature

To create a safe environment conducive to healing and community development, we will ask all participants to adhere to these agreements throughout the week. While we will explore topics of sexuality, we will ask participants to refrain from sex during the retreat. This helps to create a safe environment, and encourages deep connections without the motivation of sex, which past participants recognize as a very refreshing change for queer men.

All Details at one Glance:

$2,710.00 – Shared 4 Bed Jungle Cabin
$3,550.00 – Private King Cabin
$3,130.00 – Shared Twin Jungle Cabin
$3,725.00 – Private Deluxe Cabin

DATE & TIME DETAILS: December 8 - December 14, 2024

LOCATION: 'The Jungle Gayborhood' San Salvador de Baru, Diamante Valley, Costa Rica

CONTACT: [email protected]

Included:
- Accommodations
- 3 meals per day
- All listed activities and practices
- Group shuttle airport transfer to and from the Jungle Gayborhood (at a specific time and date).

Not Included:
- Flight
- Any visas that may be required

Cancellation Policy: A 50% Deposit payment is required to book your space. The remaining 50% will be processed 30 days prior to the start of the course.

90+ days prior to the start date: Full refund
89-30 days: 50% refund
29 days or less: No refunds

Please note: 13% tax will be added to all costs.

We know that life can be unpredictable, and sometimes plans need to change, but our cancellation and refund policies are absolute. We recommend trip insurance that includes coverage for cancellations made for any reason. We recommend insurance companies such as: Travel Guard or World Nomads any other well-known travel insurance company.

Scholarship Options: Participants who would like to join the course but are facing financial challenges can opt for one of a limited number of scholarship options. They will be able to access the course at a greatly reduced price. Accommodation will be in a camping tent rather than a cabin.

In order to qualify, please fill out this Scholarship Application Form to let us know about your situation and the scholarship amount you are seeking.

Precio Tico: For Costa Rican nationals we offer a 50% discount on listed prices. Please email [email protected] for further information. A Costa Rican passport or identity card is required.

Digital Detox: You will be strongly encouraged to switch off all electronics for the duration of the course in order to connect more deeply to nature and to yourself. Use of electronics will be strictly limited to the bedrooms. Electronics such as phones, iPads or laptops will not be able to be used in any public areas.

Doggo Notice: We have two very loving and friendly pups - Bodhi and Luna - who live here at the Gayborhood. Aside from the occasional barking spree at incoming cars, they are quiet, harmless, and very sweet. If you have any concerns about dogs being onsite, please reach out to discuss. If you have any concerns about dogs being onsite, please reach out to discuss. Aside from Bodhi and Luna, the Gayborhood is a pet-free property, please leave your furry friends at home.

4x4 (4WD) Notice: Please note that the road leading to our property is a dirt road, and during heavy rains it can be challenging for non-4x4 / 4WD vehicles to exit. In this case, non-4x4 vehicles may need to wait until any heavy rains subside before attempting to leave. Please keep this in mind when renting a vehicle or booking transportation.

Authentic Connection

Why Retreats with Jungle Gayborhood?

Dive into an experience that goes beyond just a getaway. Our retreats are crafted to provide you with a safe and welcoming space, where authenticity and connection take center stage. Whether you’re looking to unwind and recharge or eager to forge new friendships in an inclusive setting, our Jungle Gayborhood retreats offer a unique opportunity to connect with yourself and others in a meaningful way.

Expert Facilitators:

experienced facilitators who will guide enriching experiences, helping you discover more about yourself and your connection with others.

Inclusive Community:

Join a diverse community that celebrates authenticity and diversity.

Exceptional Environment:

Immerse yourself in the lush nature, creating a unique backdrop for your moments of relaxation and reflection.

Holistic Well-being:

Enjoy activities designed to nurture your mind, body, and spirit.

What’s it like to attend a retreat at the Jungle Gayborhood?

Our Retreat Amenities include

Luxurious accommodations, holistic wellness facilities, adventure opportunities, and an experienced team for an unforgettable experience.

Spectacular waterfalls

Enjoy six major waterfalls within walking distance along the Diamante River.

11 Gorgeous Bamboo Cabins (25 beds sleeping up to 28)

3 Deluxe Cabins (1 king/queen bed)

5 Jungle Cabins (1 king bed or 2 individual beds)

3 Bunk Cabins (4 individual beds)

All cabins include power, lights, fan, super comfortable beds and nice linens, and are fully enclosed in mosquito mesh netting. A/C is unnecessary in our region.

Camping area

able to accommodate 10-20 people

Beautiful yoga shala

Our Shala Space is a beautiful covered bamboo structure reaching out into the jungle with a direct view of the Diamante waterfall

Communal bathroom and showers

All cabins share a beautiful bamboo bathhouse with hot water.

Communal 5 person outdoor shower

3 private individual showers

Kitchen + dining to accommodate 30+

Gourmet meal plan available

Gym

Comprehensive collection of free weights (machines and cardio not available)

Pristine Nature

Located on a gorgeous 300 acre property in one of the world’s most biodiverse places in Costa Rica.

Abundant hiking

Explore several kilometers of private hiking trails right on the property.

On-site bodywork

Relax and care for your body with massage with the soundtrack of nature (additional cost)

Offered right in your cabin or in our massage temple.

Accommodations include

All cabins are handmade primarily from locally-sourced bamboo, and while they are protected from the elements and enclosed in mosquito netting, they are open air and have spectacular views of the jungle. Private and shared accommodation options are available.

Private Deluxe Cabin

A beautiful, hand-crafted bamboo cabin with a queen or king bed.

SHARED TWIN JUNGLE CABIN

A shared cabin with two comfortable twin-size beds. You will have one bed to yourself and you will be matched with another participant who will sleep in the other twin bed.

SHARED 4 BED JUNGLE CABIN

A shared cabin with four comfortable single beds. You will have one single bed to yourself and you will be matched with three other participants who will sleep in the other beds.

King Jungle Cabin

A beautiful, hand-crafted bamboo cabin with a queen or king bed.

All cabins come with:

All cabins share a gorgeous bamboo bathhouse and shower facilities.
A/C is unnecessary in our region.

Price includes accommodation, use of facilities, and morning embodiment classes (such as yoga, meditation, etc) offered several days per week.
This price does not include the cost of meals ($50/person/night).

Meals include

We have an in-house chef who prepares fresh and delicious meals daily, using local, organically grown ingredients whenever possible. We will do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Vegan

Vegetarian

Pescetarian

Includes Meat

Organic

Gluten Free

Dairy Free

Nut Free

Register now for our retreat

What participants say

This trip helped me to ground myself in the beauty of nature, to shed the veil of constant distraction of life, technology. social media and the city and really 100k at myself. The compassionate nature of the facilitators, the community coming together each on their own healing journey and the delicious local food came together perfectly,

This retreat was one Ot the most transformational oxporioncos thot hod in my ontiro life, If you aro looking to build community, connect with yourself, and tap into your solf worth and power. this experience is for you. Looking forward to the next one already.

I was going through a rough patch with my mental wen- being and finding those that shared the same desire to better themselves. This experience introduced rne to a healthy gay community of men that were more than their trauma, without judgment or prejudice. I felt liberated, free, loved ond heard. There were so many beautitul souls here that shared their stories with me. I found that the key was to take a leap Of faith and come with on open heart and

I'm so glad I attended Remembering Wholeness- The food. the shelters. the facilities, the movement, the ceremonies, and the natural environment were worthy Of accolades_ Mostly, basked in the cornpany Of other queer men. all of us sharing our joy and spirit with each other. 1 highly recommend the retreat and stays offered by the Queer wellness Collective.

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frequently asked questions

FAQs

Got questions about our retreats in Costa Rica? Read the FAQs or get in touch via the contact form below.

WHERE DO JUNGLE GAYBORHOOD RETREATS TAKE PLACE?

Our retreats take place at the luxurious and bohemian Jungle Gayborhood in Diamante Valley, Costa Rica, offering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all couples.

WHAT MAKES THE JUNGLE GAYBORHOOD IN COSTA RICA A SERENE YOGA RETREAT DESTINATION?

The Jungle Gayborhood offers a paradisiacal oasis of calm, seamlessly integrating the natural beauty of Costa Rica with the peaceful practices of yoga. It’s not just about the asanas here; it’s about tapping into the serenity of an untouched paradise and reconnecting with one’s inner peace.

HOW DO WELLNESS AND THE VIBRANT JUNGLE GAYBORHOOD CONNECT IN COSTA RICA’S YOGA RETREATS?

Costa Rica’s yoga retreats in the vibrant Jungle Gayborhood are designed to cultivate wellness by harmonizing the vitality of the lush rainforest environment with the restorative power of yoga. It’s wellness with a pinch of wild charm, and a whole lot of soul!

WHY DO YOGA ENTHUSIASTS RATE COSTA RICA AS A TOP CHOICE FOR YOGA RETREATS?

Yogis rave about Costa Rica’s retreats because they provide a tranquil setting that fosters both personal growth and relaxation. The country’s reputation for top-ranked retreats stems from their ability to deliver transformative experiences that go far beyond just the physical aspect of yoga.

WHAT IS SACRED SEXUALITY?

Sacred sexuality is a practice that elevates sexual experiences to a spiritual level, aiming for a deeper connection with oneself and one’s partner.

HOW DO ECO-FRIENDLY PRACTICES PLAY INTO COSTA RICA YOGA RETREATS?

Our retreats aren’t just set in nature; they give back to it. The eco-friendly practices and sustainable living ethos are woven into the experience, ensuring that your journey towards inner peace also contributes to the health of our planet.

IS THE JUNGLE GAYBORHOOD IN COSTA RICA INCLUSIVE FOR LGBTQ+ INDIVIDUALS?

The Jungle Gayborhood is more than inclusive; it’s a celebration of diversity. It’s a place where the LGBTQ+ family can find unity and peace, an environment that resonates with the essence of ‘Pura Vida’ and welcomes every individual with open arms.

IS COSTA RICA SAFE FOR LGBTQ+ TRAVELERS?

Yes, Costa Rica has a good track record in terms of safety, and its growing social acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community makes it a relatively safe destination.

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