Who is sponsoring and organizing this retreat? 

The Soulfulness Center in collaboration with The Sankofa Path, Inc. Nonprofit. The retreat is being developed and directed by the three founding Board Members of The Sankofa Path (one of whom is Dr. Shelly Harrell, Director of The Soulfulness Center). The Sankofa Path is a newly formed nonprofit that aims to provide culturally-informed wellness, health promotion, psychosocial, and psychoeducational services, training, and research relevant to marginalized and under- /inappropriately- /ineffectively- served groups and communities where there are racial-ethnic, socioeconomic, and/or gender-related disparities in health, health risks, and health care (inclusive of psychological/mental/behavioral and physical health). We focus particularly on the role of stress and "isms" in health and mental health. The retreat planning team is comprised of five Black women with combined 100+ years of experience as wellness and mental health providers, administrators, researchers, program developers, and trainers.  

Are adults of all genders invited to attend the HWB Retreat?

Yes. We welcome adults of all genders, gender identities, and gender expressions.

 

Are children able to attend the HWB Retreat?

No. This is an adult only retreat (18 years and older).

 

Why is there a registration fee in addition to the cost for accommodations and food? What does this additional fee cover?

We have an amazing group of Teacher-Healers and programming planned for you. The Retreat Program Fee pays for teachers, staff, operational costs and various retreat materials.

 

Can I bring someone with me who doesn't participate in the HWB Retreat activities and doesn't pay the Program Retreat Fee?

No. All occupants of our Blue Spirit rooms must pay the Program Retreat Fee and are expected to be part of our Healing While Black retreat community. 

Can I attend the HWB retreat activities and stay at a different hotel nearby?

No. All retreatants must stay at the Blue Spirit Retreat Center. This shared experience is an integral part of the HWB retreat.

 

Will the retreat center rooms be similar to a luxury hotel?

As this is a retreat center, the amenities are designed for simplicity and basic comfort. Blue Spirit  rooms are very nice! Many rooms are quite spacious with ample space for personal belongings. Many include desks and small patios. Rooms have standard amenities such as towels and washcloths, warm/hot water, and daily room cleaning. There is air-conditioning and internet in all rooms except for the eco-cottages and platform tents. There are no TVs or landlines in any of the rooms.

What happens if I don’t get the room type that I requested?

During registration we ask you to rank order room type preferences. The various room types are limited in availability and are assigned on a first come, first serve basis. If your preferred room type is sold out, we will give you the next available room type based on your rankings.

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What should I know about the Blue Spirit property?

Please note that Blue Spirit is located on an incline and the Main Building has multiple levels.  There is an elevator in the main building but additional stairs are required to access some rooms or reach the Reception Desk. The dining and pool areas are on different levels, and the Longevity Center, as well as Massage Rooms and smaller meeting locations, are located along a hill. The Nature Suites and Pacifico Cottages require walking up and down a hill or using outdoor stairs to reach the Main Building. The beach and outdoor exploring around will involve walking up/down hilly paths or steps.

    

How many people will be attending the HWB Retreat?

Our intention is to create a safe and intimate healing space with a limited number of retreatants. Our vision is to provide an experience of community that also enables people to get to know each other. Depending on room occupancy and availability, we anticipate between 30-35 retreatants. 
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Will there be other retreats/activities occurring at Blue Spirit separate from the HWB Retreat?

While we will have private and exclusive use of Sky-Mind Hall for our HWB program activities, there will possibly be other smaller retreats occurring during the same week on the Blue Spirit property. Common spaces such as the lobby, dining area, cafe, and infinity pool will be shared.

What amenities are offered at Blue Spirit?

For an additional charge, Blue Spirit offers services through their Longevity Center, as well as a variety of Massage Services from therapists trained in techniques from all over the world. See the Blue Spirit website for additional details.

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What type of weather is typically expected in Costa Rica in late July, early August?

Blue Spirit Retreat Center is located in a tropical environment with variable rainfall during this time of the year.  On average, daytime temperatures can warm up to 85°F and evenings can cool down to around 76°F. 

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What should I bring to the HWB Retreat?

Comfortable clothing for hot weather; shoes for walking; swimsuits and beach attire; insect repellant; sunscreen lotion; sun hat; umbrella; light rain jacket; a white outfit for the Opening Ceremony. Blue Spirit provides beach towels, yoga mats, and meditation pillows. However, you are welcome to bring your own personal items to facilitate your comfort. 

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Will there be time to do some sightseeing during the HWB Retreat week?

No. While there is "free time" each day, the HWB schedule is designed for retreatants to be present and involved in a healing community. Sightseeing can be scheduled on your own prior to or following the HWB retreat week.

Can I extend my stay at Blue Spirit once the HWB Retreat ends?

We will not coordinate extended stays at Blue Spirit. You can certainly speak with Blue Spirit representatives to determine if there are rooms available to extend your stay after the HWB retreat ends.

What type of food is served for the meals that are included in the cost of the HWB Retreat?

Breakfast, lunch and dinner include freshly prepared gourmet vegetarian dishes with vegan options. Fish is served 2-3 times during dinner each week.

Is there food for purchase at Blue Spirit?

Yes. There is a cafe that has a smoothie bar and bakery with delicious treats for an additional charge.

Are there nearby restaurants?

Yes. There are a few nearby restaurants. However, we encourage everyone to eat in community with the other retreatants and enjoy the deliciously prepared food provided by Blue Spirit that is included with your accommodations.

Which airport is closest to Blue Spirit?

The closest airport to Blue Spirit is LIBERIA, Costa Rica (LIR). 

Is there special transportation to/from the airport and Blue Spirit? What is the cost? How long is the ride? 

Blue Spirit offers group shuttles to/from Liberia International Airport (LIR). These shuttles operate only on Saturdays for groups of 3 or more. It is a scenic two and a half-hour drive. The group shuttle rate is $60 + 13% tax per person each way. While we strongly recommend that you use the Blue Spirit shuttle service, you may consider a car rental at your own expense. You will need to coordinate parking directly with Blue Spirit.

 

What travel documents are required?

US citizens do not require an entry visa to Costa Rica. You must have a current valid passport and a return ticket to exit Costa Rica within 90 days (either to return to the US or to go to another country). US passport must be valid for a minimum of one day from the day you enter Costa Rica. Please visit the official Costa Rica travel website for more information or if you are a citizen of another country.

 

What is the COVID Policy/Protocol?

At minimum, we will follow the guidelines current in Costa Rica at the time of the retreat. We will update you closer to the start date of our retreat.

What is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

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For a cancellation made prior to February 1st, you will receive a refund less a 3.5% Processing Fee.

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For a cancellation made between February 1st and March 15th, you will receive a refund less a 3.5% Processing Fee plus a $200 Cancellation Fee.

 

For a cancellation made between March 16th and 60 days of the start of the program, you will receive a refund less a 3.5% Processing Fee plus a $500 Cancellation Fee.

 

No refund or credit will be offered for cancellations made within 60 days of the start of the program, no-shows, or early departures.

 

For any incidentals or unforeseen circumstances we strongly suggest Traveler’s Insurance.

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