We don't believe in coping, we believe in thriving.
Since 2006, the Choose Again retreat center in Costa Rica has taught thousands of people from around the world how to break free from stress, anxiety, depression, and challenging relationship dynamics.
Our program addresses the root cause of persistent negative emotional patterns, while teaching a simple, proven process which has the power to transform your mental state, give you back the reigns over your own mind, and offer you a life of sustainable health, joy and wellbeing.
Our program addresses the root cause of persistent negative emotional patterns, while teaching a simple, proven process which has the power to transform your mental state, give you back the reigns over your own mind, and offer you a life of sustainable health, joy and wellbeing.
Simple, proven, life changing.
OUR 10-DAY WORKSHOPS IN COSTA RICA COMBINE:
DAILY THERAPY SESSIONS
The foundation of every retreat is the Six Steps to Freedom, a simple, proven therapeutic process for discovering and undoing the root cause of recurring negative patterns in our lives. The Six Steps process combines the Core Belief Work of CBT with mindfulness and forgiveness practices from universal spiritual teachings. With this innovative yet simple approach to healing, you will learn how to work with your thoughts and emotions to locate and release negative core beliefs formed in childhood, and return to a sense of inner peace and clarity.
The Six Steps to Freedom is taught and practiced in daily therapeutic processing circles, guided by a team of highly trained counsellors. Each workshop has a maximum of 12 participants for a nearly 1-2 counsellor-client ratio. This guarantees each participant daily opportunities for personal processing, as well as the chance to learn from others' processes in a supportive and confidential environment.
The result is the capacity to notice habitual thought patterns and ways of dealing with life challenges, inviting a shift to a new perception and sense of purpose in every situation. A deeper connection to self and a clarified sense of purpose are the foundations for living a rich and full life.
The foundation of every retreat is the Six Steps to Freedom, a simple, proven therapeutic process for discovering and undoing the root cause of recurring negative patterns in our lives. The Six Steps process combines the Core Belief Work of CBT with mindfulness and forgiveness practices from universal spiritual teachings. With this innovative yet simple approach to healing, you will learn how to work with your thoughts and emotions to locate and release negative core beliefs formed in childhood, and return to a sense of inner peace and clarity.
The Six Steps to Freedom is taught and practiced in daily therapeutic processing circles, guided by a team of highly trained counsellors. Each workshop has a maximum of 12 participants for a nearly 1-2 counsellor-client ratio. This guarantees each participant daily opportunities for personal processing, as well as the chance to learn from others' processes in a supportive and confidential environment.
The result is the capacity to notice habitual thought patterns and ways of dealing with life challenges, inviting a shift to a new perception and sense of purpose in every situation. A deeper connection to self and a clarified sense of purpose are the foundations for living a rich and full life.
Choose Again founder Diederik Wolsak leads a healing circle.
A COMPREHENSIVE HOLISTIC PROGRAM
The mental wellness focus is supported by a carefully designed program of experiential somatic and mindfulness practices. The purpose of the somatic component is to help you integrate what you have learned, access deeper emotional states, while releasing hidden stress.
These simple and proven practices also help to lay the groundwork for continued self-care after you return home:
The mental wellness focus is supported by a carefully designed program of experiential somatic and mindfulness practices. The purpose of the somatic component is to help you integrate what you have learned, access deeper emotional states, while releasing hidden stress.
These simple and proven practices also help to lay the groundwork for continued self-care after you return home:
- Life-changing holotropic breathwork sessions
- Digital detox (optional)
- Daily yoga and movement
- World-class vitality-based cuisine
- Daily morning meditation, with instruction
- Excursions to some of Costa Rica's most spectacular natural attractions
- Connecting with like minded people and learning how to support each other
- Time in nature, with monkeys, parrots, toucans, and incredible flora
Healing workshops, starting every two weeks:
Freedom from Trauma
|
Heal Your Mind, Transform Your Life
|
Healing Intimate & Family Relationships
|
A powerful, holistic approach to mental wellness.
OUR COSTA RICA RETREATS HAVE BEEN CHANGING LIVES SINCE 2005.
Each 10-dayworkshop offers a rich and profound therapeutic program, inviting healing of both mind and body.
Daily healing circles support participants to dive deeper into their own emotional and psychological patterns, learning how to release them and return to a deeper sense of self.
The circles are supported by a carefully selected set of somatic and mindfulness practices, designed to help you to recenter yourself, release hidden blocks, integrate what you've learned, and open up to a greater sense of freedom and joy in yourself.
Daily healing circles support participants to dive deeper into their own emotional and psychological patterns, learning how to release them and return to a deeper sense of self.
The circles are supported by a carefully selected set of somatic and mindfulness practices, designed to help you to recenter yourself, release hidden blocks, integrate what you've learned, and open up to a greater sense of freedom and joy in yourself.
A Typical Day
Morning
5:00 am: Wake up naturally with the howler monkeys. Silence and reflection until breakfast.
6:30 am: Morning meditation, with instruction
7:00 am: Yoga, walk, or expressive movement
8:30 am: Breakfast with morning card readings
9:30am: Participant-led study group
10:00am: Therapeutic circle led by skilled counsellors.
Afternoon
12:30 pm: Nutritious lunch, different each day
1:30pm: Walk in surrounding nature, possibly a swim in the lake
2:15: Quiet time
3:45: Group session, such as holotropic breathwork, pairs practice, or afternoon outing to hotsprings or equine therapy
5:30: Evening meditation
Evening
6:00 pm: Candlelit gourmet dinner with gratitudes
7:00 pm: Time for socialising, or quiet reflection
All day
Time in Nature: Living in an incredible natural setting, with daily time with Costa Rica's famous biodiversity and our manicured gardens.
Digital detox: Take these 10 days to get a break from your digital devices, using the maximal amount of time for deep reflection, contemplation, creativity and healing.
5:00 am: Wake up naturally with the howler monkeys. Silence and reflection until breakfast.
6:30 am: Morning meditation, with instruction
7:00 am: Yoga, walk, or expressive movement
8:30 am: Breakfast with morning card readings
9:30am: Participant-led study group
10:00am: Therapeutic circle led by skilled counsellors.
Afternoon
12:30 pm: Nutritious lunch, different each day
1:30pm: Walk in surrounding nature, possibly a swim in the lake
2:15: Quiet time
3:45: Group session, such as holotropic breathwork, pairs practice, or afternoon outing to hotsprings or equine therapy
5:30: Evening meditation
Evening
6:00 pm: Candlelit gourmet dinner with gratitudes
7:00 pm: Time for socialising, or quiet reflection
All day
Time in Nature: Living in an incredible natural setting, with daily time with Costa Rica's famous biodiversity and our manicured gardens.
Digital detox: Take these 10 days to get a break from your digital devices, using the maximal amount of time for deep reflection, contemplation, creativity and healing.
World class therapy & mind training
Therapy and mind training: Over the course of 10 days, participants will become well-versed with the Six Steps to Freedom process. Highly skilled facilitators will lead participants through the Six Steps, teaching them how to the process for themselves, and how to guide others through the process..
Holotropic breathwork: Life-changing 2-hr breathwork sessions.
Yoga and movement: Holistic body-mind practices such as yoga, hiking, and expressive movement, tailored to our participants' levels of physical fitness.
Meditation: Start your day with a 6:30am meditation practice, with instruction.
Silence: Every morning is silent, and several days of the program are silent outside of program times. This allows for going inward and integration of what you have been learning. it.
Time in Nature: Wake up to the howler monkey, fall asleep to a frog chorus. Our manicured gardens amidst lush jungle offer daily delights for the eyes, ears, and heart.
Gratitude: Nightly gratitudes around a candle-lit dinner table is many participants' favourite part of the program.
Digital detox (optional): Put away your digital devices and reclaim time for contemplation, reflection, and creativity.
Holotropic breathwork: Life-changing 2-hr breathwork sessions.
Yoga and movement: Holistic body-mind practices such as yoga, hiking, and expressive movement, tailored to our participants' levels of physical fitness.
Meditation: Start your day with a 6:30am meditation practice, with instruction.
Silence: Every morning is silent, and several days of the program are silent outside of program times. This allows for going inward and integration of what you have been learning. it.
Time in Nature: Wake up to the howler monkey, fall asleep to a frog chorus. Our manicured gardens amidst lush jungle offer daily delights for the eyes, ears, and heart.
Gratitude: Nightly gratitudes around a candle-lit dinner table is many participants' favourite part of the program.
Digital detox (optional): Put away your digital devices and reclaim time for contemplation, reflection, and creativity.
Vibrant gourmet cuisine
As everyone who has been to El Cielo knows, we take eating very seriously. The mind and body healing that we offer to our guests is necessarily supported by vibrant and nourishing cuisine.
Our international, in-house chefs serve three buffets a day of globally-inspired, locally-sourced food. The menu is high in salads and vegetables, with local fresh fish or chicken for protein, and low in refined carbohydrates. Meals range from fresh eggs and avocados for breakfast, creative Buddha bowls for lunches, and delicious gourmet dinners; all augmented by fresh fruits, green smoothies, and a regular supply of salads and micro-greens grown in our on-site greenhouse. Coffee, tea, and snacks available all day.
Vegetarian and vegan preferences can be accommodated.
Our international, in-house chefs serve three buffets a day of globally-inspired, locally-sourced food. The menu is high in salads and vegetables, with local fresh fish or chicken for protein, and low in refined carbohydrates. Meals range from fresh eggs and avocados for breakfast, creative Buddha bowls for lunches, and delicious gourmet dinners; all augmented by fresh fruits, green smoothies, and a regular supply of salads and micro-greens grown in our on-site greenhouse. Coffee, tea, and snacks available all day.
Vegetarian and vegan preferences can be accommodated.
Beautiful, simple accommodations
El Cielo, Choose Again's holistic retreat centre, was opened in 2006 in northwestern Costa Rica. This unique mid-elevation locale boasts manicured gardens in the midst of lush jungle overlooking the stunning Lake Arenal. Our facilities include a communal dining hall, spaces for indoor and outdoor group circles, a yoga studio and a greenhouse where we grow our own greens.
All rooms have posturepedic mattresses, a private bath, and veranda with garden and lake view.
All rooms have posturepedic mattresses, a private bath, and veranda with garden and lake view.
Rejuvenating excursions to local hot springs, lake, and beaches
In every workshop we make sure to make at least one excursion to a local site of extraordinary beauty. This could be to the wild hot springs by Arenal Volcano, the tranquil Lake Arenal that is our spectacular view, our local equine therapy centre, and/or one of the vast and peaceful beaches on the Nicoya Peninsula.
The excursions are an essential part of the therapeutic program, offering participants an opportunity to practice what you are learning, engaging with local people and natural surroundings.
The excursions are an essential part of the therapeutic program, offering participants an opportunity to practice what you are learning, engaging with local people and natural surroundings.
Recognition of our Six Steps to Freedom process
/
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
"Direct and eloquent… a practical six-step program to self-liberation.”
Gabor Maté
Renowned Speaker & Bestselling Author / Canada
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
/
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
“It has the power and the potential to truly change your life.”
Jerry Jampolsky
Founder of Attitudinal Healing International & Bestselling Author / USA
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
- 0
- 1
Healing minds since 2005
In December of 2011, Warren Helfrich, a program evaluation consultant in private practice, was contracted to complete an evaluation of the services offered by Choose Again at their Healing Centre in Costa Rica (El Cielo).
Here are only a few of the highlights of the results:
Here are only a few of the highlights of the results:
- 95% of those attending the Centre reported having ‘very good’ quality of life at the time of exit, an 89% improvement over the pre‐test result.
- 77% of individuals exiting the Centre indicated that they had a strong sense of the purpose and value of healthy relationships, an increase of 148% over pre‐test results.
- The total number of individuals indicating that they had a very positive relationship with their spouse/partner more than doubled from pre‐test ratings to follow‐up (a 132% increase)
Learn more about the evaluation here
Participants testimonials
I chose to gift myself a retreat to El Cielo. It was the best birthday present I have ever received or given. I didn't know much about this magical place in Costa Rica or the Choose Again Six Step Process. I was hesitant. Now, after being through the program and coming back to my world and seeing first hand how peace and happiness is attainable, I encourage all other folks reading this review to "Go for it." Pack your bags and transform your life. This really works. Everyone in my group had a life changing experience. You will re-connect and discover through the help of the fantastic staff that all along the key to happiness and peace exists right in you. They will help you navigate how to access that truth. I am forever grateful to myself for choosing to go to Costa Rica, the amazing Team at Choose Again and the people who shared in my journey.
- Debbi Levins, NY,
2023 Retreat Participant
|
|
|
As a busy working mom, I felt that I was ‘destined’ to be stuck in the rat race of life, putting everyone else first and never having time for me. Because of this belief I was unhappy and constantly looking to find love and relief in all the wrong places. Making the decision to come to El Cielo, to put myself first was the greatest gift I gave myself (and my family). First, the program is designed to nourish your body and mind. The food is fantastic and the beauty of the silent walks took my breath away. Knowing and believing now that I am joy and peace at my core and that it is only my choice to be anything but that, has given me the trust in myself to go forwards with love.
~M.Y. 38, Corporate Secretary, Canada, January 2024 retreat participant
....Read more testimonials
I have been in 12-step recovery for addiction for over 20 years. Although I have stayed sober I have continued to struggle with depression. I have read dozens of books and studied several spiritual practices, but none of them presented me with what Choose Again did. If true happiness has eluded you and you believe no human power can [help]. There is a solution here.
- D.F., Real Estate Developer, Colorado, Healing Trauma Retreat, January 2024
Go Deep! The Intensive Program
Our intensive allows you to join two consecutive 10-day retreats of your choice, and enjoy free time in the days in-between to either rest and integrate with us at the Centre, or discover the natural beauty of Costa Rica.
About this intensive
This program will allow you to:
- Complete two consecutive 10-day retreats of your choice (see above)
- Have time for deepening and integration with all-inclusive full-board stays between workshops.
- Have opportunities to explore some of Costa rica's most magical areas: Volcano Arenal, the Monteverde Cloud Forest, and the stunning beaches of the Nicoya Peninsula.
Rates for a 28-day Intensive
The 28 Day Intensive is the price of two retreats (private or shared). Additionally, should you choose to stay at the centre for the 4 nights between your workshops, we offer room and board in our healing environment for $240USD/night.
Logistics
Getting here
The Choose Again Intensive Retreat Center is located in northwest Costa Rica, by Lake Arenal.
The nearest airport to us is in Liberia, Guanacaste. A free shuttle is provided on workshop start and end dates for arrivals and departures. If you need to book a flight on another day of the week or via another airport in Costa Rica please let us know in advance so we can work with you on travel arrangements prior to registration.
Due to the distance, we are unable to run an airport transfer from San Jose, if you choose this route, please contact us at [email protected] for details for other transport options.
The nearest airport to us is in Liberia, Guanacaste. A free shuttle is provided on workshop start and end dates for arrivals and departures. If you need to book a flight on another day of the week or via another airport in Costa Rica please let us know in advance so we can work with you on travel arrangements prior to registration.
Due to the distance, we are unable to run an airport transfer from San Jose, if you choose this route, please contact us at [email protected] for details for other transport options.
A Hidden Gem on Lake Arenal, Costa Rica
2024-2025 Workshop Calendar
Dec 29- Jan 8, 2024
with special guest Diederik Wolsak
Heal Your Mind, Transform Your Life
Jan 12-22, 2025
with special guest Diederik Wolsak
Healing Intimate & Family Relationships
Jan 26- Feb 5, 2025
with special guest Diederik Wolsak
Heal Your Mind, Transform Your Life
Feb 9-19, 2025
with special guest Diederik Wolsak
Freedom from Trauma
Feb 23- Mar 5, 2025
with special guest Diederik Wolsak
Heal Your Mind, Transform Your Life
Mar 9-19, 2025
COUPLE-RELATIONSHIPS WORKSHOP
"Radical Relationship Reset"
Led by Diederik Wolsak
Mar 23- Apr 2, 2025
with special guest Diederik Wolsak
Heal Your Mind, Transform Your Life
April 6-16, 2025
with Gad Sprukt and Fred Wilberts
Freedom from Trauma
April 20-30, 2025
with Gad Sprukt and Fred Wilberts
Heal Your Mind, Transform Your Life
May 4-14, 2025
with Gad Sprukt and Claudia Mosele
Healing Intimate & Family Relationships
Aug 10-20 2025
SPECIAL TOPIC
Healthcare Professionals Retreat
(reduced rate workshop for healthcare professionals only)
with special guest Diederik Wolsak
Heal Your Mind, Transform Your Life
Jan 12-22, 2025
with special guest Diederik Wolsak
Healing Intimate & Family Relationships
Jan 26- Feb 5, 2025
with special guest Diederik Wolsak
Heal Your Mind, Transform Your Life
Feb 9-19, 2025
with special guest Diederik Wolsak
Freedom from Trauma
Feb 23- Mar 5, 2025
with special guest Diederik Wolsak
Heal Your Mind, Transform Your Life
Mar 9-19, 2025
COUPLE-RELATIONSHIPS WORKSHOP
"Radical Relationship Reset"
Led by Diederik Wolsak
Mar 23- Apr 2, 2025
with special guest Diederik Wolsak
Heal Your Mind, Transform Your Life
April 6-16, 2025
with Gad Sprukt and Fred Wilberts
Freedom from Trauma
April 20-30, 2025
with Gad Sprukt and Fred Wilberts
Heal Your Mind, Transform Your Life
May 4-14, 2025
with Gad Sprukt and Claudia Mosele
Healing Intimate & Family Relationships
Aug 10-20 2025
SPECIAL TOPIC
Healthcare Professionals Retreat
(reduced rate workshop for healthcare professionals only)
Retreat registration is by telephone only.
For more information, or to register directly, call us toll-free:
1 (888) 832 5959
For more information, or to register directly, call us toll-free:
1 (888) 832 5959
Questions? Get in touch
- Toll-free phone - 1 (888) 832 5959 Our offices are open Monday-Friday from 8am - 4pm (Pacific Time). If you call outside these hours, please leave a message and we will get back to you the next working day.
- Email us: [email protected]
- Or book a call with our registration consultant:
Read an independent evaluation of our program |
| ||