Soulful:
A nourishing retreat that shows you how to move from burnout to living more fully
Rest into support and embrace all of the possibilities that come along with healing
Location: Sansara Surf and Yoga Resort, Cambutal, Panama.
Dates: May 12 - May 18, 2024
Join Shelby Leigh and an incredible gathering of worldwide new friends for a much needed mindful and heart-centered nervous system reset at the luxurious Sansara Retreat in Cambutal, Panama.
Immerse yourself in a connecting and renewing experience with deep feelers, sensitive souls and adventurous spirits.
|This retreat is a grounding, spacious, supportive way to return home to your deepest heart and your inner compass. Find your true north through gently settling your nervous system. Finally give yourself the reset you need so that you can live from a steady foundation so that you can be unapologetically YOU.
This unique trauma-informed retreat is designed to help you regulate your nervous system through gentle somatic meditative and embodied practices. The primary practice we’ll sink into is called Transforming Presence™ and it’s gentle and unlike any other healing modality out there. This retreat is about spaciousness and learning to ease-fully rest into support and take up nourishment from the present moment, our surroundings and inner/outer connection so that we can feel safe enough inside ourselves to meet each moment with a compassionate heart and fresh eyes.
Rest into support so you can restore balance and tap into your aliveness, inspiration and ease. Use this time to reflect, move, laugh, connect with friends new and old, adventure, rest and welcome yourself home in every moment.
Learn through practices, teachings AND on the waves to more playfully and steadily ride the waves moment-to-moment and meet yourself and all that you carry in a fresh and compassionate way so you can deepen even more fully into your fullest self.
“What kind of abundance and ease could you have in your life if you were able to slow down?”
- 6 nights luxury accommodations at Sansara
- Daily guided experiences - somatic nervous system regulation practices and teachings, as well as meditations, gentle breathwork, mindful relating, yoga, surfing, rest and connection.
- Daily trauma-informed yoga for all bodies and abilities, overlooking the Pacific Ocean
- Luxury van transportation to/from Panama City to Sansara, Cambutal
- Arrival day dinner, three healthily-balanced DELICIOUS meals each full day (5 days), and departure day breakfast
- One dry-land intro-to-surf lesson with Surf Sansara
- 2 group surf lessons in the ocean
- Complimentary use of bicycles, kayaks and SUP boards
- Local coffee, tea and filtered water
- Organic bathroom products, high-quality hypoallergenic beddings/linens, and beach towels provided
- Daily housekeeping
INCLUSIONS
- 3-months of post-retreat group support and connection on Zoom!
BONUS
- Airfare to/from Panama City (Tocumen International Airport)
- Transportation to/from the airport and your hotel in Panama City
- Your one-night stay in Panama City before and/or after the retreat
- Smoothies, juices, snacks, and alcohol at Sansara
- Additional surf lessons, excursions and/or rentals at Sansara
- Spa services
- Gratuities
- Travel Insurance (recommended)
NOT INCLUDED
SAMPLE DAILY SCHEDULE
6:00 AM: Coffee, fruit, tea available
7:30-8:30 AM: Somatic Movement & Yoga
8:30 AM: Breakfast
10:00 AM: Daily gathering: teachings & practices
12:30 PM: Lunch
2:00 PM: Surf, spa, explore or rest
6:30 PM: Dinner
8:00 PM: Evening gathering: teachings, practices & occasional dance parties
*Schedule subject to change a little here and there depending on things like surf tides!
The intention & inspiration behind
Soulful
Shelby Leigh, LPC, is an educator, trauma specialist, somatic psychotherapist, coach, consultant and meditation teacher whose work celebrates the infinite possibilities of healing and growth.
Shelby is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Mindfulness and Meditation teacher, a Certified Yoga Teacher, a twice-certified coach, has devoured numerous trainings in the somatic treatment of complex and developmental trauma, and has taught, managed, and facilitated multiple dozens of retreats throughout the US and Mexico to both teens and adults. She has sat for months in silence as a practitioner and gone to the far ends of the world learning from a variety of teachers from many traditions (Eastern and Western). Shelby is a proud alumna of California Institute of Integral Studies in Somatic Psychology where her passion was sparked for integrating meditation, spirituality, embodiment and trauma healing.
She has worked extensively as a raft and kayak guide and travel photographer, and loves the role of adventure and outdoors in the practice of waking up. Shelby has also served in various roles to promote safer spaces for individuals from many backgrounds and who hold various intersections of identity, so that they can feel welcome to be their fullest selves.
As the founder of programs such as Creating Safer Space and Body of Work, Shelby teaches therapists, coaches, wellness practitioners and facilitators the importance of the role of non-pathologizing ourselves as well as others in the healing process, and also (slowly) coming home to our bodies in a way that feels gentle and supportive.
With over 20 years of experience facilitating and practicing Insight Meditation and embodiment practices, Shelby has become a worldwide advocate for trauma-informed practices so that whoever needs them the most can truly receive and take up the nourishment from them. From nervous system regulation and co-regulation work (Transforming Touch®), to meditation and yoga, to chopping wood and carrying water - when we’re supported through trauma-informed guidance (whether we’ve been impacted and overwhelmed by trauma or we’re simply human), it helps us more easily learn, heal and grow, and ultimately take it with us for a lifetime.
You’ll find Shelby on the trail every day whether rain, ice, snow or shine along with her Border Collie/Lab Luna. She’s also lived in Mexico, Bali, Spain, and London, and has learned immensely while traveling solo throughout many parts of the world since age 15. Now at home in Bend, Oregon, when she’s not seeing clients or teaching, she’s on a snowboard, XC skis, riding horses, laying by a river, canoeing, rafting, camping, off-roading, picking up trash with Public Land Stewards Bend or pretty much anything she can do to be in the presence of nature where she feels most at home and with a sense of belonging.
Teresa Prado has been a movement instructor for the past seven years after finishing the Rizze Yoga Immersion Training in Vancouver. Since then, they have done extensive training in somatic movement alongside training and volunteering with Yoga Outreach to offer free trauma-informed movement practices to a diverse population, from rehab centres to seniors' homes.
With a slow and steady rhythm in order to be inclusive of all bodies and abilities, Teresa encourages folks to tap into their needs to experience the class however they wish. The main objective is to offer a safer space for people to connect with their bodies and explore what movement, breath and mindfulness means to themselves.
Teresa Prado Nogueira
Somatic Movement Facilitator
(she/her/they/them)
Kiara is based in Boston, MA where she was born & raised. On the weekdays, she supports healers, creatives & change-makers with their general admin and customer support. In life, she is an avid traveler, movement enthusiast, and aspiring DJ. Some of her other identities include: Dominican, Black, an Aries Sun, queer, neurodivergent, and plant lady (just to name a few). Her passions include: music +attending live events, building community, eco-consciousness + ethical consumption, among many other things!
Kiara Hernandez
Retreat Support Assistant
(she/her)
TESTIMONIALS
-
![]()
“The trauma informed lens of Shelby’s work completely changed my expectations about how safe a growth experience could feel. The options and modifications she offered us during the workshop allowed me to select options that felt safe and “just my speed.”
Prior to working with Shelby I had not felt empowered to participate in workshops in ways that felt appropriate to me and was often pushed out of my comfort zone, resulting in a sense of shame or embarrassment. The feeling of safety and permission to engage at my own pace was pivotal for me. Shelby does an outstanding job of creating nurturing environments for participants to be present in their bodies.”
-
Karyna Verzwyvelt,Licensed Massage Therapist, Owner of Sole Purpose Massage & Wellness, Bend, Oregon
-
![]()
“Shelby creates a safe space for what is. This is a simple statement, but in a world where we are constantly needing to meet expectations and "be" in certain ways, the space that Shelby creates feels truly revolutionary. I find that she creates a balanced experience that allows for introspection. Shelby gently invites us, in a safe enough way, to explore difficult edges and feel at ease at the same time. I especially enjoy how Shelby can take complex and deep subjects, such as trauma and embodiment, and make them approachable and relatable through her storytelling. I find that whenever I am around Shelby, I feel seen and held with a lot of tenderness, and it allows me to open up to the experience of flow, ease, and joy.”
-
Daniela Perez,
Director of North America Pacific Programs at Women's Earth Alliance, San Diego, California
-
![]()
“Shelby's gentle and compassionate teaching style made this experience feel warm and welcoming and her ability to model true self-compassion was inspiring.”
_
Caitlin Capistran,
Doctor of Physical Therapy / Owner of Feeling Centered Bodywork, Portland, Oregon
-
![]()
“Shelby made me feel like I was an important part of the retreat group (our sangha), and she was remarkably supportive and responsive when I did have a thought or question. The experience was an enriching one for me. I look forward to my next retreat with Shelby!”
-
Bryan,
Civil Engineer, St Louis
-
![]()
“Shelby has a very real gift for teaching and for listening deeply- her ability to connect with each of us is a testament to this. The retreat was very supportive and encouraging, and for the first time in a long time I maintained a consistent home practice each day. Thanks, Shelby!”
-
Alexis Saari,
Social Worker, Oak Grove, Oregon
-
![]()
“I met Shelby on a wilderness retreat in New Mexico. It was an amazing retreat, full of self-discovery and healing. I have learned from her that we can be with the unknown and still be happy. I like how we communicate together. She is a strong and tender person, full of wisdom and laughter. I am very glad to have her as a friend and life mentor.”
-
Hillary Chase,
Singer-Songwriter, Massachusetts
-
![]()
“I would absolutely do another multi day retreat with Shelby. The benefits have been long lasting. Her presence, practices and kindness inspire profound transformation for which I’m so grateful.”
_
Sara Engum,
Health & Fitness Trainer, Bend, Oregon
FAQs
-
Anybody who is on a healing journey and needs a deep and nourishing reset.
-
Shelby, here! I can barely even get up on a wave but I always seem to be grinning while trying to catch the waves. It’s all about learning, playing, laughing and adventuring together. Whether you’re brand new or advanced, there’s a spot for you here.
The emphasis of this retreat is nervous system regulation. If you'd like to surf, you'll have one dry land lesson and 2 lessons in the ocean and we’ll be in groups according to our surf levels. You’ll have the option to rent a board on your own on additional days if you just can’t get enough.
Sansara surf instructors provide a comfortable, supportive environment where you can feel safe and supported trying out surfing. If you know ahead of time that surfing isn’t your jam, there are many other activities at the resort and in the surrounding area that will make your trip well worthwhile if you'd prefer to skip the surf. Please do let us know ahead of time though so we can plan accordingly.
-
At Sansara you have quick, easy access to beach breaks, point breaks, and reef break surf options. Whatever you’re looking for, we’ve got it.
-
Sansara’s rooms are set up to hold 1-4 people per space, and each one has its own private bathroom. If you register alone, we’ll pair you with other attendee(s) of the same gender. If you register with somebody, we’ll be sure to put you in the same room. All rooms are shared rooms.
-
All the rooms available are shared rooms-- The rate listed for the room is per/person. If you would like to have a solo room, you will have to register for 2 slots. For rooms that show a single king bed, it is likely we can replace it with 2 twin beds instead.
-
Each of our beachfront cabanas is equipped with a full in-suite washroom, air conditioning, North American power outlets, mini fridge, and private patio. We have room options for up to 4 people; we offer different configurations, king sized beds, two queen beds, or a twin bed option- the choice is yours when you make your reservation. Our linens are sustainable high quality fibers, and all pillows are hypoallergenic. The showers is stocked with complimentary organic soap, shampoo, and conditioner.
*Hairdryers and irons are available upon request at reception.**Sansara is located beachfront with each cabana offering either exquisite ocean views, or views of the surrounding gardens.
-
Our resort features a beautiful saltwater pool with views of our tropicals gardens and the Pacific Ocean.
-
Yes, Sansara is accessible. Please contact us prior to arrival so we can ensure the most optimal arrangements are made to make the most of your vacation.
-
This is highly encouraged! The staff at Sansara work around the like to make our experience wonderful in many ways. You will be able to pay this at the end of the week when you close out your tab.
Sansara recommends the following:
Housekeeping $5 & up per day
Front of House $5 & up per day
Food & Beverage $15-$20 per day
Massage 15-20% of service
Surf & Adventure 15-20% of service
-
Space is limited to 24 participants
-
We will gather for early morning yoga each day. It’s an invitation to connect with our bodies in the present moment in a gentle and compassionate way. This yoga is for people of all levels and abilities.
-
Sansara is situated beachfront with a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean at your doorstep. You are steps away from finding yourself sitting under the sun, playing on the beach, enjoying endless miles of beach combing, snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up-paddling, and surfing all right outside the doorstep of your beachfront cabana!
-
Sea to Table, Farm to Table and vegetarian options. There’s something here for everyone.
Sansara does a great job and helping everyone receive the nourishment they need in a beautiful way.
We will be sure to ask you any dietary needs or preferences before we meet on the retreat! -
There is a bar at the resort. We ask that if you imbibe, to please do so with mindfulness and consume consiously.
To ensure everyone’s safety and comfort, we kindly request that you do not attend sessions after drinking - this guideline helps ensure that everyone can fully show up and to really exhale into the space we’re creating together as a group. Our intention is to foster a compassionate and non-judgmental atmosphere, so you do you - whatever feels in alignment with your vision for healing during this retreat.
-
With the average temperature holding steady in between 82 and 91 degrees Fahrenheit (Between 28 and 33 degrees Celsius), you’re bound to love the weather at Sansara no matter what time of year you plan your trip to Cambutal! Chilly nights are a rarity and we recommend you pack for the sun. Cambutal, Panama is seated in the arco seco, or the “dry Pacific arc”, a nickname given to the area because of the low rainfall it experiences during its rainy season.
-
Yes, you need a passport with 6 or more months of validity to come into Panama.
-
The deposit and retreat payments are non-refundable. In the case of an emergency, you may transfer your spot to another person.
We highly recommend you to purchase travel insurance within 15 days of your trip deposit in order to protect your investment and/or in case of an emergency. The kind of insurance we suggest purchasing is “Cancel For Any Reason” insurance. With this insurance type, you will receive a percentage (usually 75%-100%) of all pre-paid costs. If something comes up, a wedding, a new job opportunity, virus outbreak, etc.
We suggest using (www.travelinsurance.com) for its easy user interface and comparison tool to choose the best insurance that suits your needs. We recommend that your travel insurance cover the activity of this retreat as well as unexpected sickness losses and all the usual risks.
In the event that we cancel the retreat due to emergency or unforeseen and extenuating circumstances, you will have the option to move your spot to a retreat we’ve scheduled at a later date or have a full refund.
-
Reach out at support@shelby-leigh.com and we’re happy to help!
-
YES! You can book a call with me, Shelby. I look forward to connecting and answering any questions and we can decide together if the retreat is a really nourishing and supportive fit for you