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Life’s demands overshadowed Sonja’s well-being, but her solo retreat was the path to the self-care her mind and body were begging for.
Sonja eloquently describes her state before discovering Hacienda Del Sol: “I had reached a point in my life where I was pouring so much of myself into my work and responsibilities that I had started to feel disconnected from my own body, spirit, and joy. I was running on empty—high-performing on the outside, but internally, I knew I was overdue for rest, clarity, and a space to simply be without pressure or performance.”
For years, she had envisioned a solo trip dedicated to her well-being, but the sheer busyness of life and the understandable hesitation of traveling alone as a woman kept pushing that dream further away.
It was during a moment of profound burnout, in a late-night Google search, that fate intervened. Sonja stumbled upon Hacienda Del Sol, and in her own words, “It felt like divine timing. The place seemed to effortlessly blend what I had been craving: structured wellness practices, spiritual nourishment, and the empowering experience of solo travel, all within a peaceful and safe environment.”
In that pivotal moment, a clear choice was made: “I decided: I deserve this. I’m not waiting for the ‘perfect time’ anymore. I needed to do something that was just for me—and this experience became my yes to healing and reconnection.”
For any solo female traveler, safety is paramount, and this was top of mind for Sonja. Yet, from the very first interaction, her concerns were alleviated. Our team provided detailed communication, ensuring she felt prepared and at ease before her journey even began. She noted, “From recommendations for treatments and excursions based on my intentions for the trip, all the way to preparing for food allergies. This truly helped me feel prepared and at ease.”
Upon arrival and throughout her stay, Sonja says, “I was met with kindness and professionalism. It was clear that everyone genuinely cared about my wellness and comfort. I never once felt alone or unsafe – only supported.” This sense of security allowed her to fully surrender to the experience.
As she reflects, “If you’re considering a solo trip, this is the kind of place that reminds you it’s possible to travel on your own and feel completely secure, empowered, and held the whole way through.”
She explains that the very atmosphere of Hacienda Del Sol calls you into restoration: “The magic of Hacienda Del Sol is in how instantly and gently it invites you to slow down. From the moment I arrived, being welcomed with a chilled fresh coconut and a smile, I felt an almost immediate exhale – like my nervous system recognized it was finally safe to rest.”
She says that every detail is curated with intention, from the lush surroundings to the nourishing food and the compassionate individuals holding space. “There was no pressure to ‘perform’ wellness – it was simply about reconnecting with yourself at your own pace.”
Sonja’s days at Hacienda Del Sol unfolded organically; she found a rhythm that honored her needs without obligation. “My days had a beautiful flow – structured enough to feel held, but spacious enough to truly listen to what I needed each day.”
She woke early, not from an alarm, but from a natural alignment with the peaceful environment. Mornings were often spent in gentle movement or breathwork, followed by nourishing breakfasts that, as she beautifully put it, “always felt like a small act of love.”
Classes were embraced with enthusiasm, not compulsion. “I took most of the classes, not because I felt I had to, but because I wanted to. Each one offered something different – whether it was physical, emotional, or spiritual – and they helped me drop deeper into myself.”
Crucially, the focus wasn’t on relentless activity. “In between, I made time for journaling, walking the grounds, or simply resting. There was no pressure to be ‘productive.’ Rest was the practice.” Evenings brought a sacred quiet, culminating in a profound serenity. “Every night I went to bed with a sense of peace I hadn’t felt in a long time.”
The most significant shift Sonja had was a profound return to her physical self. “The biggest transformation I experienced was returning to my body in a way I didn’t realize I had drifted from. I remembered what it feels like to be fully present, nourished, and grounded. It wasn’t just a vacation – it was a return to self. That’s the kind of healing that stays with you.”
Leaving Hacienda Del Sol was unexpectedly sentimental for Sonja. “Saying goodbye was surprisingly emotional – I genuinely wanted to cry. It’s rare to feel such a deep sense of connection in such a short amount of time, but that’s what Hacienda Del Sol created.”
Sonja’s gratitude extended to every staff she encountered, highlighting the genuine connections formed. “On my last day, I found myself wanting to take a photo with every person I interacted with – not just to remember their faces, but to honor the kindness, presence, and care they showed me throughout my stay.”
Sonja departed carrying the energy of reconnection with her, “I left with a full heart, so many memories, and a deep sense of gratitude for what this experience gave me.”
The impact of her stay didn’t end when Sonja returned home. She has been diligently integrating the practices and mindset into her daily life. “Since returning home, I’ve been intentionally trying to maintain the rhythm and grounding I experienced at Hacienda Del Sol. I’ve found myself reaching for more presence and slowness in my daily life – honoring my nervous system in a way I wasn’t doing before. Energetically, I feel more centered and clear. I’m not rushing as much; I’m choosing with more intention.”
Practical shifts have also taken root. “Practically, I’ve made small but meaningful shifts. I’ve been referencing the cookbook and journal often. I’m also still exploring and building upon the eight elements we learned to support the nervous system – it’s become a framework I return to when I feel off balance.”
The ongoing support from the Hacienda Del Sol community has also been vital: “The community portal has been a grounding resource too, reminding me I’m still part of something bigger. Even though I’m no longer physically there, I carry so much of that energy and learning with me.”
“Since coming home, I’ve found myself becoming an unofficial ambassador for Hacienda Del Sol. I’ve been sharing my experience with friends and family, and so many people in my circle have expressed real interest in embarking on their own healing journey. It’s the kind of experience that naturally inspires others – because the transformation is real, and it shows.”
She dreams of returning, not just for rest, but for continued growth and alignment, and even hopes to inspire more people to discover this unique sanctuary. “It truly is a gift that keeps giving, and I want others to know it’s out there waiting for them too.”
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.
Get the exact transformation your soul is craving.
Take a moment to get quiet and go within to discover the perfect retreat for revitalizing your mind-body-spirit, leaving you refreshed, renewed, and in love with your life.
