Upcoming Retreat
“Glow with the Slow”
A Somatic Movement & Mindfulness Retreat
Todos Santos, BCS MX
October 20-26 2024
Meet your host..
Marcie Costello
Marcie has been leading retreats since 2018. She has co-led/facilitated five retreats with Laina Florio in Todos Santos and Syulita, Mexico and in Gubbio,Italy. She has co-led two retreats with Holly Peng, MD on Whidbey Island in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, USA.
She is excited to be returning to Yandara, as she feels a deep connection here with the land and the staff. She completed her 200hr and 300hr Advanced Teacher Trainings at the Yandara Yoga Institute in 2006 & 2018.
Marcie will be leading the daily yoga and meditation sessions, along with the daily activities and the Somatic Movement workshops during the retreat. Marcie’s classes are gentle and nourishing. While being very accessible to the beginner, her classes offer a challenge for the seasoned yogi. Although Marcie was trained in the Hatha tradition, her focus has grown. She specializes in Yin yoga, clinical Somatic Movement and is becoming certified in the Roll Model Method using therapy balls for myofascial release. She also offers sound healing. Her classes focus on reducing chronic pain and stress and the importance of breath in a calm and supportive atmosphere.
Marcie is the proud owner of a thriving yoga studio on Whidbey Island, WA. She also owns a private practice offering Therapeutic Massage and is a Yogic Lifestyle Coach. She believes the combination of yoga, bodywork and coaching can be the perfect trifecta to whole mind, body and spirit wellness.
“Leading daily yoga and meditation is an incredibly rewarding experience. As an instructor, I have the privilege of guiding individuals on a transformative journey of self-discovery and inner peace. Each morning, we come together as a community (kula), to find solace on our mats and connection with our breath. The practice of yoga and meditation offers a space for individuals to release tension and cultivate mindfulness. Witnessing the physical, mental, and emotional growth of my students is truly inspiring. Through gentle movements, intentional breathwork, and quiet reflection, we unlock our inner strength and tap into a profound sense of harmony. Leading daily yoga and meditation fills me with a deep sense of joy and purpose, as I witness the positive impact it has on the lives of those who participate.”
Previous Retreats
“Boundaries for the Soul”
A Yoga & Mental Wellness Retreat
Yandara Retreat Center
Todos Santos, BCS, MX
November 20232
The energy and connection that was created during this retreat, “Boundaries for the Soul”, was truly transformative. We were able to explore and push through our personal boundaries, build interpersonal communication skills, look into our shadows and Attachment Styles in a supportive and nurturing environment. Content themed yoga and meditation sessions were supported by workshops with Melissa Perry which helped us to dig deep and uncover aspects of ourselves that we may not have been aware of before.
The beauty of the surroundings in Todos Santos added to the overall experience, allowing us to connect with nature and find peace and serenity within ourselves while enjoying each others company. The friendships that were already established and new friendships formed during this retreat will last a lifetime, as we shared our vulnerabilities and supported each other through our personal growth
Thank you to Melissa and all of the wonderful souls who made this experience so special.
Island Trek Fitness Retreat
Nantucket Inn
Anacortes, WA
August 2023
The Island Trek Fitness retreat with Holly Peng, MD, in the Pacific Northwest was a transformative experience for all. Each day started with a rejuvenating yoga session to prepare our bodies for the day, followed by invigorating hikes through forest, lake and seaside trails on the island. The circuit training sessions led by Alaina pushed us to our limits, but the sense of accomplishment at the end was worth every bit of effort.
One of the highlights of the retreat was the kayaking excursion. The peacefulness of gliding through the water, surrounded by nature, was a truly magical experience.
In addition to the physical activities, Holly led health coaching workshops that provided valuable insights on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle to last beyond the retreat week. Her expertise and guidance were invaluable in helping the group set achievable goals for their wellness journey.
The meals during the retreat were a true culinary delight. Our private chefs (Andrea, Winnie and Julie) and a local vegan restaurant, Cosmic Veggies, served up the most delicious and nutritious meals, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Every bite was a burst of flavor and energy, fueling us for the activities ahead.
Overall, the Island Trek Fitness retreat was an experience that nourished the body, mind, and soul. It was a time of self-discovery, growth, and connection with like-minded individuals with big goals for health and weight loss. Everyone left the retreat feeling rejuvenated, inspired, and ready to continue their journey towards optimal health and well-being.
“Journey Through the Chakras”
Yandara Retreat Center
Todos Santos, BCS, MX
November 2022
Our experience at Yandara for our 2nd retreat was truly unforgettable, filled with countless blessings that enriched our souls. The theme of this retreat, "Journey Through The Chakras," was an enlightening and transformative experience for all of us. Throughout our time at the retreat we delved into theme balanced yoga sessions, guided meditations to discover the meaning of each Chakra and how the energies within them could serve as powerful tools for our healing and personal growth. Workshops with Laina Florio enrichened these concepts.
One of the highlights of our retreat was our excursion to Todos Santos, where we celebrated "Dia de los Muertos," immersing ourselves in the rich cultural traditions of Mexico. We also had the pleasure of indulging in a Chakra themed Sound Bath, enjoying the soothing vibrations that harmonized our spirits.
In addition to our spiritual practices, we also found time to enjoy the natural surroundings, relax by the pool, savor delicious meals, and simply enjoy each other's company. The bonds of friendship that were formed during our time together are truly precious, and we will forever cherish the memories we created.
“Italian Immersion Retreat”
Locanda del Gallo
Umbria, Italy
May 2022
The Italian Immersion Retreat with Spiritual Life Coach Laina Florio was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that exceeded all expectations. From the moment we arrived, there was an instant connection among the group, and our bond only grew stronger as the days went on. Laughter filled the air as we delved into soul coaching sessions, practiced forgiveness, indulged in rejuvenating yoga sessions, and engaged in heartfelt conversations by the pool. We also enjoyed massages in the Turkish spa.
But it wasn't just the meaningful discussions and self-discovery that made this retreat unforgettable. The exquisite food and wine that we savored together added a touch of luxury to our days, while the array of fun activities we participated in added an element of excitement. From mastering the art of Italian pasta and gnochi making in a traditional class to sipping wine at a historic castle, every moment was filled with joy and new experiences.
And let's not forget the cultural excursions that enriched our journey even further. Exploring the charming streets of Assisi, private tours of the Basilica of Saint Francis and the Basilica of Saint Claire, immersing ourselves in the rich history and beauty of the region, was a highlight that will forever be etched in our memories.
I feel incredibly blessed to have been a part of this group and to have experienced such a transformative and unforgettable retreat.
“New Year Renewal Retreat”
Haramara
Sayulita, Mexico
January 2022
The New Year Renewal Retreat with Spiritual Life Coach laina Florio at Haramara was truly a transformative and unforgettable experience that will forever be etched in our hearts and minds. Over the course of 7 magical nights, we embarked on a profound journey of self-discovery, growth, and connection that transcended all boundaries and brought us closer together as a community.
Each day was filled with a rich tapestry of activities that nourished our bodies, minds, and spirits. From invigorating yoga sessions, peaceful meditation sessions and empowering workshops that allowed us to delve deep within ourselves, we explored new dimensions of our being and uncovered hidden truths about ourselves.
But it wasn't just about the physical and spiritual practices - we also had the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the beauty of nature and the wonders of the world around us. From the exhilarating experience of whale watching to the tranquil moments of snorkeling in crystal clear waters, we were reminded of the awe-inspiring beauty and majesty of the natural world.
And through it all, amidst the laughter, tears, and moments of profound connection, we formed bonds that transcended time and space. Though our lives may take us on different paths and our journeys may diverge, we will forever be united in the shared experience of our time at Haramara, where we found solace, inspiration, and a deeper connection to ourselves and each other.
“Revive and Renew Retreat”
Yandara Retreat Center
Todos Santos, BCS, MX
April 2021
After months of isolation and uncertainty due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Revive & Renew Retreat with Spiritual Life Coach Laina Florio at Yandara came as a much-needed respite for us all. As the restrictions eased, we eagerly embarked on this transformative journey that spanned over 6 days. During this time, we opened our hearts, shared our truths, and collectively worked towards overcoming our limitations. It was a time of deep introspection, healing, and personal growth as we navigated our paths forward in life.
The setting of Yandara, nestled in a desert beach oasis, provided the perfect backdrop for our spiritual journey. Surrounded by the beauty of nature, we found solace and peace in this tranquil environment. The support and guidance of our amazing retreat participants and the dedicated staff at Yandara only added to the enriching experience.
As I reflect back on our time at Yandara, I am filled with gratitude for the connections made, the insights gained, and the transformations experienced. The Revive & Renew Retreat was truly a life-changing experience, and I am forever thankful to all the beautiful souls who shared this journey with us. Yandara has truly earned its reputation as the ideal Spiritual Retreat Center, and I look forward to returning in the future for further growth and self-discovery.
Island Trek Fitness Retreat
The Quintessa
Langley, WA
August 2019
Pachamama
Todos Santos, BCS, MX
October 2019
Pachamama (now Tribu) is a beautiful eco-luxury resort located just outside the town of Todos Santos. This retreat was my first experience with retreats and was a special one indeed. I provided therapeutic massage therapy sessions to the participants while experiencing all the retreat had to offer.
The daily yoga with Scott Victor Nelson helped us to connect with our bodies and minds in a deep way. The coaching workshops with Spiritual Life Coach Laina Florio, were also incredibly valuable, allowing us to explore our inner selves and work through any obstacles or challenges we were facing. We also enjoyed a tezmezcal ceremony, bonfire and delicious meals.
One of the most memorable experiences was witnessing a sea turtle hatching on the beach. It was a powerful reminder of the beauty and fragility of nature, and a reminder of our interconnectedness with all living beings.
Overall, the retreat at Pachamama was a transformative experience that left us feeling rejuvenated, inspired, and deeply connected to ourselves and the world around us. We left with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation for the magic of Baja and the power of retreats like this one.
Photo Gallery…lifelong connections…
