The

Awakening

Experience

A 7-Day Retreat Experience For Women in the Lush Jungle of the Costa Rican South Pacific

April 5-12, 2025

Register Now
Are you ready to take the

deepest breath of authenticity?

Are you ready to release yourself from the busyness of your everyday life:

responsibilities, obligations, commitments + relationships

So that you can connect with the energy of your heart and meet what’s rising up within you?

The Awakening Experience is a week-long immersive retreat experience for women who are curious and open to freeing themselves from the illusion of who they think they are, so that you can step into the fullest expression of the life that’s waiting for you.

I Am Ready

Hello beautiful soul, have we met?

We both live in the jungles of Costa Rica and after co-creating prior retreats together in Mexico, Costa Rica and Canada – we are ready to bring this one home to the community in which we live and flourish.

There is something deeply special about the land of the South of Costa Rica. If you’ve been here, you know what we are talking about.

The area around Dominical is the wet rainforest. It is green, lush, full of diversity of plants and animals. We are hosting this retreat during the dry season. You will enjoy the ocean, rivers, waterfalls and epic sunsets.

We have curated the most special experience for the women who feel called to be a part of this retreat experience.

As co-facilitators we finish each other’s sentences (legit, we really do) and yet we both offer some uniquely special to the experience.

We are both seasoned leadership coaches to women, yoga instructors, breathwork facilitators, but like you — that’s not really who we are.

At our core we are deeply passionate about the human experience and know that when women come together in our retreats, we meet as women and leave with a bond of friendship and sisterhood that changes us — in all the best ways possible.

This retreat is Lighthearted and Potent. Meaningful and Expansive. Purposeful and Playful. You will leave feeling deeply connected to your heart and the energy of your important, soulful presence on this planet.

No biggie … We know. It’s quite the statement.

Count Me in
What to expect

Expect to be held deeply in a consciously created container that includes:

Hover over each image to learn more

Daily Yoga + Meditation

A daily yoga class and meditation experience on our private yoga and meditation deck. There will be a late afternoon or evening yin or restorative class offered on some of the days.

Soulful
practices

We weave self discovery, personal leadership and soulful practices into our week -- a chance to explore, enquire, learn and integrate a greater sense of self. These practices will be a natural extension of our daily meditation, movement and mindfulness practices.

Farm-To-Fork
Meals

Each day our private chef will prepare local, organic cuisine that includes fresh tropical fruit, freshly squeezed juices, coffee/tea, snacks, light bites upon awakening, mid-day brunch and an exquisite dinner. We will be serving healthy versions of fresh fish, chicken and beef at some of our meals. We can accommodate most food preferences including vegan and vegetarian cuisine.

Guided
Breathwork

Various forms of guided breathwork that will help you release tension, let go of unproductive patterns, re-regulate your nervous system and expand into what's possible.

Waterfall
Excursion

We'll take a breathtaking excursion to Nauyaca Waterfall -- one of Costa Rica's largest and most majestic waterfalls.

Sound Therapy
+ Healing

Evening Sound Therapy Healing Session while you lie under the candlelit canopy integrating the healing frequencies of the sound bowls.

Temazcal
Experience

A traditional, private group Temazcal experience with a local healer and guide.

Optional on-Site healing sessions

Optional on-site sessions with various local healers and natural practitioners - including massage, bodywork, energy work and acupuncture [additional charge for these sessions]

Integration
Time

Time to integrate, unwind, swim, explore and step into the pace and rhythm that calls to you.

Local Artisan
Market

Local artisan market and beach excursions.

Shuttle to/from
the retreat

Included transportation via Group Shuttle to-and-from San Jose, Costa Rica to the retreat centre on the first and last day of the retreat [* see details below].

Optional Add-Ons + Magical Surprises

Optional add-on experiences like Learn-To-Surf lessons and more ... we purposely hold back some of the magical details.

Coaching + Self Discovery

Both Laura and Shirlee offer group sessions that include coaching, introspective exercises, integration and self discovery. These sessions are woven throughout the week and often become the parts of the retreat our participants love the most.

I Am Ready

Payment Details

The Investment
  • All rates are listed in USD and include all the details listed in the “Your Accommodations” session [unless otherwise indicated], including any applicable taxes.
  • Retreat expenses can be paid in multiple payments depending upon the time of reservation [all retreat monies must be paid in full by March 1, 2025]
  • A $500 nonrefundable deposit is required to hold your spot. Your spot is not reserved until this is paid.
  • Payments can be made by credit card, wire transfer or auto-debit (PAD/EFT). When checking out, you can use Visa or Mastercard in Canadian dollars. If you have a US Checking Account or want to use an Amex, choose USD as the currency for checkout. If you choose to use a credit card, there is a small fee added to the checkout.
  • Retreat rates are non-refundable; however, if your plans change you may find a suitable replacement to take your spot ($150 USD admin fee). If we are able to find a suitable replacement, we will refund your money less the $150 admin fee.
  • We are offering group shuttle to and from the retreat space to San Jose, Costa Rica. If you decide you will not be utilizing this service we will subtract $50 USD from your retreat fee.
What's Not Included
  • Airfare
  • Travel, Cancellation or Health Insurance [recommended]
  • Airfare from SJO to Quepos if you decide to not take the included 4 hour group shuttle (Air Conditioned with Wifi).
  • Any other beverages, snacks or meals you purchase outside of the retreat centre.
  • Optional surf lessons, additional excursions not already mentioned, massages or session with healers/ natural health practitioners.
"This retreat was everything I knew I was looking for and even more of what I didn’t know I needed. The sense of belonging was incredible from day one. I finished the retreat with a happy heart, feeling rested and inspired. The yoga stretched my edges and made me feel strong and empowered. The guidance from Shirlee and Laura was perfect. I can’t say enough about the resort. It absolutely got everything right. If you were considering a retreat with these beautiful women, don’t hesitate. Your heart will be filled. You are worth the investment in you."
Dawne Sullivan
Dawne Sullivan
"I highly recommend saying YES to a retreat with Shirlee and Laura! This experience was absolutely beautiful. The comradery and love within the group of women was so strong and beautiful. Their retreat allowed for lots of self-reflection, healing, personal growth and a deeper sense of self. It is a beautiful and totally worthwhile experience, one that I believe you take away exactly what you need. To those considering a retreat with Shirlee and Laura, just say YES!!!"
Brenda W.
Brenda W.
"I’ve been on a few retreats with Laura and have loved every one of them! But now it’s even more beautiful having Shirlee and Laura join together to create incredible experiences and magical transformations. As soon as I get to the retreat, I feel my soul exhale and whisper “thank you for coming home." It’s an experience I crave and look forward to every time. If you’re on the fence about whether you should attend a retreat with them, I can tell you that you will come home a new person. You will meet incredible women, create bonds for life, you will laugh, and yes you will cry, but most of all you will awaken the voice of your soul that will thank you for loving yourself enough to say yes!"
Pam Lewis
Pam Lewis
"After multiple retreats with Laura, and now Shirlee,the retreats never cease to confirm to me why I keep coming back. I have achieved where I want to be in my life...finally at 70😁 with the guidance of these women and all those that attend. The retreats prove to me what we can achieve physically, emotionally and mentally. Once you do 1 retreat you WILL want to do another."
Mary L,
Mary L,
"As a busy 55+ entrepreneur, I couldn't seem to find any balance between my personal life and my business and I was feeling that my health and confidence were deteriorating. At the retreat, I found loving, caring and compassionate women that are all going through their own journey and for the first time in a long time I felt supported, and loved for who I truly am (imperfectly perfect). I realized that I don't have to shrink or diminish my light and that I can speak my truth. I also feel a beautiful sense of community and sisterhood and I'm excited to see what's next for me and for all the other beautiful women I met on this experience. Laura and Shirlee are the perfect pair - my Yin and Yang as I called them, as together, they nourished my mind, body and spirit. Thank you so much for this beautiful experience and for holding space for me to cry, laugh, love, dance and feel again! Xo"
Patti Wilson
Patti Wilson
"This was a retreat of Sisterhood for me. Women have so much power inside that the world needs. When we gather as Divine women, we love and support each other and allow each other to see their greatness. There is no judgement, just love, compassion, support, seeing and being seen. I highly recommend reclaiming who you were meant to bee 🐝 Grateful, thankful, blessed."
Janice Neigum
Janice Neigum
"The whole week was amazing! Wonderful company with a well thought out schedule of events with something different every day."
June Sinclair
June Sinclair
"Shirlee and Laura were wonderful - knowledgeable, kind and welcoming. The group of women were amazing- fun, vulnerable, supportive. I loved the Yoga and the cold plunge, dancing and breath work. There was such a feeling of love and respect in this group."
Mary Flynn
Mary Flynn
"Shirlee and Laura’s connection is magnetic. They both have so much wisdom to share. . I stepped into this retreat with no expectations and felt I got exactly what I needed. It was full of real moments, vulnerability, trust and beautiful connections. My heart is full. Grateful ❤️"
Nadia P.
Nadia P.
"I had a special time at the goddess retreat. Connecting, unplugging a bit, having fun and bonding with a group of unique women during the retreat was really valuable in many ways. It filled my cup. Thanks for the lovely week! "
Jill
Jill
"11 strong women, 7 lush days, and 2 fabulous leaders made this retreat in the dense jungle of Costa Rica an experience of a life time and one that I will carry in my heart forever. We started out as strangers but ended as kindred spirits. My heart is open, I am trusting the process and I now have new friendships that offer and bring support, love with no judgment."
Sandra S.
Sandra S.
"If you are looking for leadership,mentorship and yoga and meditation? Laura and Shirlee will be an amazing choice with their own personal leadership and collaboration you will be transported to be the best version of yourself … it’s worth the investment in yourself. Thank YOU forever grateful for this opportunity to be supported by you both. Shirlee and Laura compliment each-other and are a dynamic duo. I was grateful they both took time to chat with everyone in the group making everyone feel and Know they are seen , heard and loved and truly valued. They were and are the lighthouses.
Lisa
Lisa
"My experience at the Reclaim retreat was heart opening and heart filling. The support by Laura and Shirlee was reassuring yet empowering. There was alot of bravery and vulnerability happening all at once and I am blessed to have been apart of it and witness to it-within myself and along side the bright beautiful women who attended the retreat. It is amazing, as the people that needed to be there as part of the group - just where there! The universe knows."
Liz Dougland
Liz Dougland
"Laura and Shirlee are a dynamic duo. They weave humility, honesty and humour throughout the retreat and their compassion is palpable. The retreat was medicine for my mind, body and soul. I look forward to meeting up with them somewhere in the world for another retreat."
Linda N.
Linda N.
"My goal this moving forward is too create more meaningful relationships with other women and to become more vulnerable. I signed up for this retreat a bit apprehensive as I did not know any of the other 17 women on the trip. I am so very happy that I went. It was an amazing week and I met the most wonderful women. I learned I can be myself around others if I open up and trust the process. I am so very grateful that I went. I came back with not only new relationships but also actionable steps to improve my relationships back home. I am full of hope moving forward and very much look forward to the next retreat. If you are considering a retreat with Shirlee and Laura don't think about it- Just do it!"
Helen Thompson
Helen Thompson
"The Goddess Retreat was everything I did not know I needed and wanted. Together with the other women, we all came into this experience with our own stories, intentions and expectations. We also came with our own version of walls that we use to shield-protect us from those stories, intentions and expectations. The guards that surrounded our most vulnerable pieces of ourselves ... The Goddess Retreat experience asked us to broke down our walls, surrender to our environment & fears and OPEN our hearts to a new version of ourselves. By weeks end, every single one of us found our true inner Goddess & dance in the glory that makes us whole!"
Ashley L.
Ashley L.
"To anyone considering gifting yourself a retreat with Laura and Shirlee, I have two words - DO IT!! Life keeps on life-ing and it can seem daunting to arrange all the moving parts to actually book the retreat, get on the plane, and step away from all you have going on. But there really is no greater gift to yourself. A retreat is time away to rediscover who you are, to soften, let go, breathe. A time to reconnect with your true essence, to laugh, and cry, and step outside your comfort zone. A time to embrace adventure and sisterhood. I loved it all - daily meditation and breath work, incredible yoga classes, yummy food, swimming in the ocean, treating myself to wonderful body treatments. Laura and Shirlee are brilliant facilitators. You will feel seen, heard and held by these women. Booking this retreat is the best thing I have done for myself in a very long time."
Sarah J.
Sarah J.
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Max Retreat Occupancy: 8 women / 4 cabinas

Your Accommodations at Royal Sabitha

Indulge your beautiful self. All of our luxury cabinas are private, with two single beds and shared with one other woman. If you don’t already have a roommate in mind, we encourage you to happily say yes to sharing accommodation with another amazing women that is saying yes right alongside you. We will pair you with your roommate and let your beautiful souls take care of the rest!

If you are used to having your own space please be aware that there are many private, quiet areas on the beautiful expansive property and there will be ample time for you to find solitude if that is what you need and want during this retreat.

Private Cabina

Sleeps 2 | Shared Occupancy

Each private cabina has:

  • 2 single beds with pillow top mattress, memory foam pillows and luxurious linens
  • Private wrap around patio with floor to ceiling windows and glass sliding doors
  • Spacious bathroom with rain head shower
  • Dressing room with ensuite closet
  • Air conditioning and ceiling fans
  • Fiber optic WiFi internet
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Each cabina is a gentle stroll from the pool, sun loungers, main retreat house and private meditation and yoga deck.

Due to the intimate nature of this retreat, there is no solo occupancy available. You can book with a mom, sister, daughter, friend OR we will put you with an incredible woman.

Trust us … she’ll be amazing and you’ll be so happy you said yes to this experience.

Regular Rate: $3333 USD
Early Bird Rate: $3199 USD
Claim Your Spot
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Your Food

Three fresh, farm-to-fork meals per day prepared by our private chef. Each day you will enjoy local, organic cuisine that includes fresh tropical fruit, freshly squeezed juices, coffee/tea, snacks, light bites upon awakening, mid-day brunch and an exquisite dinner prepared by the chef. We will be serving healthy versions of fresh fish, chicken and beef at some of our meals. We can accommodate most food preferences including vegan and vegetarian cuisine. Please advise us when booking if you have any restrictions.

Your Hosts

Shirlee Williams

Certified Coach | Registered Yoga Teacher | Breathwork Facilitator | Energy Amplifier

Hello, beautiful souls! I’m Shirlee, your go-to guide for magical all-women retreats. I believe wholeheartedly that each and every one of us deserves to take up space in this world. The problem is, we’ve been told something different. I am here to remind you of your greatness. I’ve wandered down a wild path of yoga, breathwork, and soul-deep entrepreneurship. From owning a buzzing yoga and spin studio for 14 years to leading life-changing retreats in Ontario, Mexico and Costa Rica, It’s been quite the adventure.

After years of dreaming and manifesting, my partner, our very large and lovable dog, and I have finally made the leap to Costa Rica. Yep, I’ve been calling this magical place home since 2007 (at least in my heart), and now it’s our reality! I live my life believing that life is unfolding just as it should, and it doesn’t always need to make sense. TRUST is the answer.

When you join one of our retreats, get ready for an experience filled with connection, transformation, and a sprinkle of magic. Whether it’s on the mat, during a breathwork session, or simply soaking in the beauty of the jungle, you’ll find yourself in a space where you can truly be you.

Laura Foster

Women’s Coach | Yoga Teacher | Chiropractor | Breathwork Facilitator | Experience Maker

I freakin’ love the magic of women coming together and in this, part of my gift is creating the space and holding the energy of what wants to come through in those moments.

I believe women have an expanding role in what’s happening in the world right now. We are potent communicators, extraordinary energy weavers, powerful intuits and lovers-with-our-whole-hearts.

We matter. A lot.

And our job is to remember exactly who we are and who we have always been as we walk the path to becoming our most liberated, grounded, expansive selves.

I live in Uvita, Costa Rica with my husband, pocket dog and massive Rottweiler. We grow a zillion kinds of fruit – most of which I don’t recognize. I make a damn good cup of craft coffee in enviable mugs. I have a boutique Chiro practice, run retreats around the globe, privately coach a small group of fabulous women, teach yoga and facilitate breath work.

I, like you, am committed to what matters and so far that’s meant letting go of rather limiting stories and beliefs that no longer have space in my life so that my life reflects what’s in my heart and soul.

If we know each other already — I’m so glad you’re here reading this and considering this retreat experience. If we’ve yet to meet, how amazing you’ve made your way here.

I hope you’ll join us.

Frequently Asked Questions

We welcome all beginner yogis and no experience is necessary. No need to bring a yoga mat. We’ve got you covered! On a side note, although this property does not have a lot of stairs, we will be doing some walking and exploring areas that may include trails and uneven terrain. If mobility is an issue please discuss with us prior to booking.

If you are a single registrant – awesome! We have found that over 50% of the individuals who sign up for our retreats are coming alone so do not worry if this is something you’ve never done before. We may arrive solo, but we will move throughout the week as a mini-tribe of beautiful souls. Many of the people you meet during this weekend will likely become life-long friends.

Absolutely! Everyone can enjoy three delicious, local, organic, farm-to-fork inspired meals are available daily. We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diets. Please advise us when booking if you have any restrictions.

To be completely wowed and leave feeling like you’ve given yourself the biggest gift ever. That’s a bold statement – we know, but after hosting many retreats in various settings we are accustomed to the magic that happens in a retreat.

Retreats are inherently different than vacations. On the surface it may look a lot like an all-inclusive style vacation, but once you arrive you’ll start to settle into the glorious routine of taking space and time to unroll your yoga mat, breathe deep, expand outwards and enjoy the process that unfolds. The workshops and classes are like icing on a soulful adventure.

Bring your open heart and sense of fun and you’ll be sure to have an incredible time (and if you feel inspired to truly unplug – be prepared to set down your technology while you are here).

We have included an optional private group shuttle service that will pick you up at a hotel that is 1 mile from the San Jose International Airport (SJO —- do NOT book San Jose, California!). The hotel has a free service that picks you up from the airport and takes you to the hotel.

The optional included shuttle pick up is at 11:45 am CST at the Fairfield by Marriott San Jose Airport (Alajuela) on Saturday, April 5th and will drop you off there at 3:30 pm CST on Saturday, April 12th.

If you decide you’d like to fly on Costa Rica Green Airways or Sansa Airways from SJO to Quepos (XQP) you can do so. This would be your own cost and we will deduct $50 from the cost of your retreat. Ensure you have at least 2 hours between flights. We can arrange a taxi to pick you up from Quepos and bring you to the retreat in Dominicalito.

The retreat is in Dominicalito, CR and begins at 4 pm CST on April 5th and concludes at 10:30 am CST on Feb 12th. You will need to leave time to return to San Jose for your international flight. The drive takes about 3.5 hours; however, leave 4.5 hours just in case. There is also the option to take the small hopper plan from Quepos, CR to San Jose, CR which takes approximately 35 minutes. The domestic terminal is beside the international terminal in San Jose.

Perfect! Let’s begin the process with an email to Laura Foster at drlaurafoster@gmail.com, or Shirlee Williams at shirlee@shirleewilliams.com.

Let Mother Nature

Hold Space For What's Possible

Our heart’s are giddy with the knowing that this retreat is small, intimate and wholly potent and whomever says yes to this experience will be forever changed … in all the best ways.

Register Now
The

Awakening

Experience

A 7-Day Retreat Experience For Women in the Lush Jungle of the Costa Rican South Pacific

April 5-12, 2025

Register Now