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Overwhelmed and exhausted, this couple found their breaking point. Their search for relief led them to an unexpected path of healing.
For Megan and Mitch, 2024 had been an exceptionally difficult year. “2024 was the worst year of our lives. Between family, work and personal challenges, we were burning both ends of the candle.” The exhaustion became undeniable. “When daily tasks seemed difficult, we realized we both needed a break and to be recharged.” Their search for relief led them directly to Hacienda del Sol. “We googled Burnout Retreat and HDS was one of the selections.”
The decision to choose HDS was swift, driven by its unique offerings. “HDS had many amenities that made the decision a no brainer.”
They were particularly drawn to the wellness facilities. “They have a thermal cycle consisting of pool, hot tub, sauna and cold plunge. But the biggest benefit was that they were all salt water!” The commitment to their dietary preferences also stood out. “Never had we seen a location have a full vegan menu.” Beyond the physical amenities, a deeper promise sealed their choice: “The spa menu had an array of unique treatments that would aid in our recovery. The biggest home run for us was that we knew we would be taken care of through all aspects of our day.”
Upon arrival, the immediate sense of peace was palpable. “When driving in to the premise, we were greeted by a large buddha statue and the warmth and positivity of the staff. Upon entering the grounds, the nature welcomed us like a hug. It was instant relaxation and peace.”
Despite their previous high stress levels, the transition was surprisingly smooth. “Due to the extreme of our stress prior to arriving, we felt we would have to endure more time to acclimatize, however we were pleasantly surprised that it was instant relaxation.”
“The magic of HDS is its all encompassing holistic practice to healing. When entering the grounds, the energy is instantly felt. The calmness and positivity of all staff is infectious. The grounds themselves are stunning with the calming nature and animals.”
For Mitch, the experience opened new doors: “My mind was opened to alternative healing methods that I never thought of before; but what I realize now was that they were exactly what I needed.”
Megan, meanwhile, found an elusive stillness. “The biggest transformation for me was that I finally was able to slow down. My mind is usually filled with a list of ‘to do’s’. From laundry to what are we cooking for dinner, add in work and personal situations. My mind is never quiet, there is constant noise. At HDS I was able to quiet the noise and finally be able to look within. I was able to address the depression and personal situations I was dealing with and face them with holistic and tangible practices.”
A typical day for Megan and Mitch began with intention. “Wake up at 6:45 to get ready for our first breakfast prior to the morning breath work/mediation and yoga. We would enjoy a juice or smoothie as a pre-workout snack.” The morning practice was a cherished ritual. “We would go to breath work/meditation/yoga class daily at HDS. This was such a beautiful way to start the day. Deep conscious breathing while staring into the beautiful jungle landscape. The yoga practices were very calm and meditative while also being physically enriching.”
After a second breakfast, their days unfolded with personalized care. “Afterwards it would depend on our schedule but we would either have sessions for our burnout recovery, treatments at the spa, thermal cycles or reading by the pool.” Even physical activity was an option: “If we felt up to it, we would attend the primal fitness prior to lunch.” The afternoons echoed the mornings, filled with “treatments, thermal cycles or reading by the pool. Some afternoons we would join in on the restorative or stretching classes.”
Each evening ended with a connection to nature: “Every night, no question, we would take the shuttle to the beach. We had a different location each day and would enjoy walking the beach or swimming in the ocean. The beaches were outstanding! Upon our return, we would make our way to supper and continue the evening chatting with our fellow HDS friends.”
The departure from HDS was emotional. Megan expressed, “I cried when leaving the staff. The people we met in such a short time became like family. I was so sad to leave. I was scared to be reintroduced to our normal ways of living, but also had the knowledge and belief that I had the answers to support myself.” Mitch felt a renewed sense of strength. “I felt empowered to take on the challenges that faced us back home.”
The lessons learned at Hacienda del Sol have profoundly impacted their daily lives. “In moments of stress, we have reminded ourselves of the lessons we learned.” They’ve integrated new practices, like breathwork and meditation, as well as self-reflection. “We have thoroughly enjoyed this practice.” Their diets have evolved as well: “In regards to nutrition, we have incorporated many of the Hacienda recipes.”
The experience has provided both with new perspectives. For Mitch, it’s “a new approach to problem solving that is much better for myself as well as others.” Megan adds, “I have become more self aware of how my body reacts to stress. I left reminded that all I need is within myself and that I am fully capable.”
Their future plans are clear. “To book another trip as soon as we can! Our long term goal is to be able to return every couple of years to reset ourselves and heal aspects of ourselves which would need it.” The community they found at HDS remains a vital support system: “We are also keeping in touch with many HDS friends and supporting each other on our journeys.”
Please note before booking that Hacienda Del Sol is NOT a medical facility. We do NOT have medically trained staff, and we do NOT give medical advice. All participants are responsible to get clearance from their doctor before participating in any of our programs. Furthermore, Hacienda Del Sol is 3 hours from the closest hospital and 45 minutes from the closest clinic, therefore participants with health conditions that require fast access to health care should take that into consideration before making a reservation.
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