Themes and Activities
Wellbeing means something different to everyone, which is why we are committed to putting you, and what matters most to you, at the center of what we do. Our experiences are designed to meet you where you are, foster deeper connections with yourself and those around you—whether it be at home or at work.
Movement, Yoga, Meditation, Fitness and Exercise
Engaging in a daily routine of movement and exercise can reduce anxiety and depression, improve mood, boost self-esteem, minimize stress and enhance cognitive functioning. KasanaCare believes that starting and ending each day with good nutrition and a routine of comfortable and appropriate movement will allow participants to fully appreciate and engage in the activities of the day. As part of our retreat programs, we help participants find a level of movement that will become an ongoing routine at home and at work for the future. And don’t worry, we know yoga isn’t for everybody, so you will not be forced to stand on your head — we just want to help you find a level and type of movement that fits your life.
Cooking, Nutrition and Wellness
Most people know good nutrition and physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight and sustained energy. In addition, good nutrition can help reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, some cancers and osteoporosis. Additionally, consuming essential nutrients plays a role in promoting mental functions, such as improved memory and concentration. These nutrients also help your brain by relieving anxiety and improving mood. A key aspect to any KasanaCare retreat is the preparation of meals. Not only are you going to be fed well, you will learn to cook well. We engage every participant in the process of feeding the group. You will learn new techniques, discover new and healthy alternatives and engage as a part of a group working for a common cause — enjoyment and better health. We strive to send you home with new skills, new inspiration and new found energy for preparing and serving the best meals possible for your health and the health of those you care for.
KasanaCare retreats combine movement, nutrition, outdoor activities, creative expression and a deep connection with nature to offer participants the tools and resources they need for sustain care and improve balance.
Hiking, Swimming, Surfing and the Influence of Nature
Exposure to nature not only makes you feel better emotionally, it contributes to your physical wellbeing, reducing blood pressure, heart rate, muscle tension and the production of stress hormones. It may even reduce mortality, according to some public health research. KasanaCare retreats are always located in beautiful and inspiring natural venues. We strive to meet our participants at a level that is comfortable, yet challenging and invigoration. While learning to surf at or San Juanico retreat center might be the best for one participant, taking a long beach walk might be ideal and appropriate for another. We strive to meet you where you are and help you overcome and excel in the challenges you choose.
Creativity — Painting, Dancing, Clay and Ceramics, Writing, Soap Making and so Much More
A creative act such as crafting, watercolor painting, dancing or working with clay can help focus the mind and has been compared to meditation due to its calming effects on the brain and body. Simple acts such as gardening or sewing releases dopamine, a natural anti-depressant. Creativity reduces anxiety, depression and stress. And it can also help you process trauma. The benefits of working with your hands, focusing uninterrupted on a single task and feeling the joy of completion and discovery is what we strive for at every retreat. We engage participants in creative and craft activities that fit their interests and capabilities, allowing for a sense of pride, completion and the excitement of discovering something new.
Forest Bathing and Desert Bathing
Forest bathing (or shinrin-yoku) broadly means taking in — feeling all of one's senses in the forest atmosphere. Forest bathing is not simply a walk in the forest — it is the conscious and contemplative practice of being immersed in the sights, sounds and smells of the forest. Because KasanaCare offers retreats in Baja California, far from the forest, we have adapted the forest bathing experience to the desert and oasis environments found in Baja.