THE COURAGEOUSLY PLAYFUL WOMAN RETREAT:
Rediscover Play and Heal Your Inner Child—in Tulum, Mexico!
May 17-22, 2025
Is your life all about achieving, but not so much about feeling?
You’re successful, driven, and constantly pushing yourself to do more. On the surface, you have it all together. But underneath, something feels off.
The joy that used to come from success isn’t there anymore, and no matter how much you accomplish, it never seems to be enough.
Maybe you…
Feel exhausted from constantly striving for perfection
Are burnt out, but unsure how to slow down
Struggle to let go of control and just be present in the moment
Have tried meditation apps, weekend getaways—even “self-care Sundays”—only to feel like they don’t truly make a difference
You’ve tried everything to feel better, but nothing seems to stick.
So you tell yourself that things will get better after the next promotion, after you hit that next goal, or after you’ve proven yourself to the world—again.
But the truth is, the constant hustle and pressure to be perfect has only disconnected you from yourself.
The inner child in you—the part that knows how to play, how to rest, and how to simply enjoy life—has been silenced for too long.
The Courageously Playful Retreat, a wellness retreat in Mexico, can help.
It is an ideal setting with expert support to guide you towards joy and meaningful change.
This isn’t just another wellness retreat or a temporary break from your busy life. It’s a chance to truly reconnect with the part of you that you’ve neglected: your joy, your creativity, your playfulness, and your ability to live in the moment without needing to achieve something to feel worthy.
Through a unique combination of somatic healing practices, creative exploration, playful activities, and deep inner work, this retreat is designed to help you:
Let go of perfectionism and reclaim your right to rest and play.
Heal the wounds of your inner child, allowing you to feel lighter and more at peace.
Reconnect with your body and emotions in a nurturing, supportive environment.
Create lasting shifts in the way you approach life, work, and relationships.
It’s time to stop just surviving and start playing again.
Hi, I’m Dez.
For over a decade I have helped hundreds of high-achieving women, supporting them through the process of healing trauma and breaking free from perfectionism and burnout, using somatic practices like yoga, breathwork, mindfulness, and other experiential practices.
I have been running retreats for years, supported by a dedicated staff to make sure you get the attention you deserve.
Together, we’ll create a nurturing space where you can explore your past, let go of problematic high achieving behaviors, and find new ways to embrace play and joy.
For high-achieving women struggling with perfectionism and the pressures of overwork, being courageously playful is a radical act of self-liberation.
In this wellness retreat in Mexico, we'll be doing exactly that: stepping outside of rigid expectations, challenging deeply held beliefs about worth, and returning to a state of joy and freedom.
Why playfulness matters:
Embracing vulnerability: It takes courage to let go of control and allow yourself to be seen—flaws and all. Through play, you'll reconnect with your authentic self and foster deep healing.
Challenging internalized beliefs: Play helps you let go of the belief that your worth is tied to your productivity. We’ll work to dismantle the harmful narratives that say you are only lovable when you achieve.
Reclaiming agency: Playfulness gives you the space to make decisions based on joy rather than external expectations. You get to decide what brings you happiness.
Cultivating self-compassion: We often show compassion to others but neglect to offer it to ourselves. Play invites you to treat yourself with the gentleness and care you deserve.
Celebrating the present moment: High-achievers are often focused on future goals. Through play, you’ll learn to be in the present, savoring the simple pleasures and celebrating your progress.
In essence, being courageously playful is about stepping out of the box and into a more authentic, creative, and free self.
You deserve to live with joy, self-compassion, and freedom from perfectionism.
Here’s what we’ll cover in our Courageously Playful Curriculum:
Healing the Past: We’ll uncover and process childhood wounds, releasing the developmental trauma and beliefs that have shaped you. By working with your inner child, we’ll get to the root of what holds you back.
Living in the Present: We’ll explore the societal pressures and roles that have cut you off from your true nature. Through creativity and play, we’ll tap into joy and freedom of expression.
Creating Your Future: You’ll learn how to show up softer and more present, build boundaries that protect your peace, and create a life filled with abundance and fulfillment.
How We’ll Do It:
Somatic practices such as Yoga, Breathwork, Meditation, and Visualizations.
Creative exploration through a variety of art mediums, including drawing, painting, and writing.
Daily guided therapeutic workshops led by a skilled facilitator, designed to connect you deeply with yourself and your community.
Excursions that encourage exploration and play—including beach days and a private boat tour of Sian Ka’an.
What makes the Courageously Playful Retreat special?
Private cenote & sound bath healing:
Nestled within the villa is a private cenote, a sacred space where you'll experience a transformative sound bath healing. Let the sounds and vibrations wash over you as you relax in this natural, serene setting. It's the perfect way to reconnect with yourself and your inner peace.
Professional photographer on site:
Put your phone down, be present, and soak in the experience. Hailey Aitkins of Nota Lux will capture the magic of your retreat, and you'll leave with 3-5 professional shots of your personal retreat experience to treasure forever. No need to worry about documenting everything yourself—just be in the moment, and take home beautiful memories.
A day at the beach:
We’ll spend a day at the beach where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant, bohemian-chic atmosphere of Tulum’s iconic beach zone. Picture yourself lounging by the turquoise sea, surrounded by rustic elegance and natural beauty, indulging in delicious cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients. Whether you choose to soak up the sun, unwind with a beachfront yoga session, or dance to live music, this day is designed for you to play, explore, and embrace the freedom of doing absolutely nothing, or everything.
Sian Ka’an Bio-Reserve adventure:
Join me for a full-day boat tour of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, one of Mexico's hidden gems. We'll be out on the water, surrounded by nature, exploring mangroves, swimming in crystal clear waters with an opportunity to snorkel in the largest coral reef in Mexico (weather permitting). Keep an eye out for dolphins, manatees, and an array of birds. This is a chance to play in nature and reconnect with the world around you.
Learn more about Sian Ka’an
Room Sharing Options:
This wellness retreat in Mexico offers a variety of accommodations. Whether you want to embrace community in a shared space or you would like the privacy of your own space to recharge or even if you want to split a room with your bestie and save some money, there are many options and price points.
Learn more about the rooms available
Let's get into the big details…
Who: A Group of 12-14 women from all over who want to heal and create a big transformation in their life. Also, Dez (and her skilled team of professionals) as your guide on this journey.
(We know if can be scary to travel to a new place with a group of strangers, but we have so many women from past retreats who have made lifelong connections, because we are all here with the same purpose and the same goal)
What: 5 night / 6 day transformational wellness retreat in Tulum, Mexico
When: May 17-22, 2025.
Where: Private Villa- Maya Onze.
Nestled amidst the serene beauty of Xpu Ha beach and the Mayan jungle, Onze emerges as a hidden gem just a stone’s throw away from the vibrant Playa del Carmen & Tulum.
Onze blends modern sophistication with a wabi-sabi design style. This centers on simplicity and imperfections. It encourages guests to let go of perfection and welcomes the harmony of the jungle with natural elements and beautiful architecture, creating an ambiance that is both inviting and elegant. One of the details that make this property unique is that you will be able to dive into the crystal-clear waters of its own private cenote, an underground river that truly sets this property apart. For some entertainment, make your way to the fully equipped media room, where you can unwind and enjoy your favorite films or shows. As the day transitions to evening, immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of the villa’s half-moon-shaped bar, and savor a delightful meal al fresco on the dining terrace, offering panoramic views of lush gardens. The property is an adult playground, which includes a gorgeous swimming pool and sun-deck, in-ground trampoline, swings, and aerial silks, plus a Pickleball and basketball court. There is a huge lawn space perfect for games like cricket, croquet, and volleyball.
Your tuition will include:
Transportation to and from the Cancun airport to our private villa (we hold your hand the whole trip from picking you up at the airport to dropping you off at the end of the week).
All meals and snacks provided when on onsite at the villa.
Daily somatic practices such as yoga, breathwork, meditation, and visualizations.
Daily guided workshops including inner child, parts work and expressive arts using a variety of art mediums.
Professional photography by Nota Lux- you will be able to take home at least 3-5 professional photos of your time in Tulum.
Meditative sound bath in our own private cave and cenote.
Excursion 1: Beach Day at Nomade Beach Club (lunch not provided)- immerse yourself in the vibrant, bohemian-chic atmosphere of Tulum’s most popular beach club.
Excursion 2: Private boat tour of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve (lunch not provided)
Expanse wetlands, secluded bays, tranquil inlets, vibrant coral reefs, and thriving mangrove forests on the Caribbean coast.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, is a treasure trove of biodiversity.
Potentially see crocodiles, manatees, an array of birds, dolphins, sea turtles, and many other aquatic species.
Swimming in crystal clear waters
An opportunity to snorkel in the world's largest coral reef (weather permitting).
And Deep Connection with an incredible group of women.
Investment:
SOLD OUT- The Cottage: Community room (twin beds) and shared ensuite bathroom (sleeps up to 3 people): $3200 per guest
5 Single beds, Air conditioning, Ensuite bathroom with 3 separate showers and double sink plus separate w/c, Hairdryer, Mini fridge, Outdoor seating with swinging chairs under a covered terrace, Robes, Safety box, Tea and coffee station, Toiletries, Wifi.
SOLD OUT- Villas with shared rooms (queen beds) and shared ensuite bathroom (sleeps 2 people per villa): $3800 per guest
2 Queen beds, Couch, Air conditioning, Ceiling fan, Ensuite bathroom with large walk-in shower, Hairdryer, Mini fridge, Private garden with hammocks, Robes, Safety box, Tea and coffee station, Toiletries, Wifi.
SOLD OUT- Villa with private room and private ensuite bathroom: $4500 total cost
King sized bed + Couch, Air conditioning, Ceiling fan, Ensuite bathroom with large walk-in shower, Hairdryer, Mini fridge, Private garden with hammocks, Robes, Safety box, Tea and coffee station, Toiletries, Wifi.
***Please note, what is not included:
Airfare to and from Cancun, Mexico.
Food, drinks, or any shopping you do on excursions.
Massages are available at an additional cost.
Here’s what guests are saying about our wellness retreats…
Deposit:
A $500 deposit is required to reserve your spot. Payment plans are available and very flexible. The earlier you book, the better ;) Payment plans for remaining balance will be scheduled for you once your registration/deposit are complete. Full tuition is due by May 1, 2025
Cancellation Policy:
You may cancel and receive a refund (without your non-refundable deposit) prior to February 1, 2025. Partial refunds can be provided for cancellations you make February 2, 2025 and later. You may also sell or give your spot to someone else in the event that you can't come. If there is a waitlist, we may be able help you find someone else who may want your spot, however, it is not guaranteed.
Flights & Transportation:
You are responsible for your own flight. Private group transportation will be included in the cost of your tuition and provided ONLY to and from Cancun airport on May 17th and May 22nd, 2025 and for off-site excursions. If you choose to be transported to/from the Cancun airport to/from the Retreat venue with the group, you MUST agree to meet at the pick-up location as detailed by Tender Arrow, LLC staff and facilitators.
FAQ
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To be Courageously Playful means embracing the freedom to let go of control, perfectionism, and the fear of judgment in order to reconnect with your authentic, joyful self. It takes courage to step outside of the societal and internal pressures to always achieve, succeed, and appear "perfect." Courageous playfulness is about rediscovering the joy of being present, allowing yourself to make mistakes, and nurturing your inner child—the part of you that thrives on creativity, spontaneity, and fun.
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Inner child work is an approach to recognizing and healing emotional injuries and wounds that took place in early life. By using play and exploration with a ‘beginner’s mindset’ (discovering new things and viewing experiences with a fresh perspective), you can reparent your inner child and heal old wounds. We believe that once you learn to heal your inner child, you can reconnect to your divine feminine and become your truest self.
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If you have been on a retreat with Dez before, you may be wondering, ‘Where is Bree?’ Bree is leading by example and embodying the principles she advocates by taking a break for self-care. She has every intention of returning to facilitate retreats again in the future, but for right now, she is modeling everything we preach—which is to take care of YOU. I will have a support team to be of support to any attendees, but all workshops will be taught by me for this retreat.
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NOPE, our wellness retreats are NOT therapy and they are not a substitute for mental health counseling or any other healthcare service.
Our wellness retreats operate under a support model. When we work together in this way, we will be supporting you towards your specific and self-identified goals for wellbeing or self-improvement.
It’s important to note, that while we are also licensed therapists, our wellness retreats are NOT mental health counseling, nor are they considered a healthcare service, and should NOT be used as a substitute for any healthcare service.
If you require mental health support or any healthcare service, we will provide you with referrals for a healthcare provider.
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We completely understand how intimidating it can be to travel alone to a foreign country as a woman. We want everyone to feel safe and comfortable, so we have built all of our retreats to be very hands-on. We pick everyone up directly from the airport so you do not have to find your way to the center on your own. We help ease anxiety by helping arrange everything beforehand, from packing lists to clear instructions on flight times to even scheduling calls with those who may need a bit more assurance. We plan to hold your hand every step of the way.
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We have been so very lucky to have had incredible women attend our retreats. The women have come from all walks of life and all age groups, but have formed very deep and long lasting relationships. We believe this is because we all come together with the same purpose. We all want to heal and grow and experience transformation. With this being the guiding force leading women to our retreats, we find that everyone can connect, no matter their background.
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Re·treat /rəˈtrēt/ - an act of moving back or withdrawing.
Retreating can be seen as a negative thing, but when it comes to doing deep exploration and inner child work, withdrawing from our busy world of distractions allows us to focus, to retreat into ourselves, without all of the outside noise.
You get 6 uninterrupted days of profound self-exploration at this retreat in Italy. This is something we rarely get at home. We believe that by giving ourselves the time and space to retreat we can unleash a transformation.
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Each full day will include accessible yoga, meditation, and/or breath work that is designed to teach skills for soothing, up to 2 therapeutic workshops, and optional process groups to assist with integration of the material and curriculum you will be learning on the retreat, as well as free time to enjoy the grounds, connect with nature, engage in play, and seek adventure.
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This retreat is for women, trans women, and femmes who want to explore their femininity and womanhood.
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Yes! No yoga experience is required. The yoga at this retreat will be accessible for all bodies and all skill levels.
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The yoga that is offered on this retreat is a mixture of Hatha and Vinyasa Yoga, Restorative Yoga, Yoga Nidra, meditation, guided imagery, and breath work. Yoga offered in the morning will be an invigorating flow designed to help you wake up the mind and body and yoga offered in the evening will be a relaxing and restorative practice to help you prepare for deep sleep.
All of the yoga offered is therapeutic in nature and trauma-informed. Unlike some classes you may find in a typical yoga studio, this yoga is really meant to help you manage distress and calm the central nervous system so that you can be more fully present and receptive of the therapeutic process.
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Please bring a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, swimsuit, and clothes you feel comfortable moving in.
Yoga mats will be provided. However, you may prefer to bring your own.
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Yes, please! Schedule a free consultation call with one of our hosts to make sure this program is a good fit for you. Click here to schedule: https://www.breeanddezretreats.com/contact