Find your inner sanctuary with Sherrie Howard at Embody Costa Rica, a Costa Rican jungle paradise.
What you can expect on retreat…
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Music & Sound Healing
From chanting and kirtan to being bathed in live, relaxing sounds while in restorative postures, your entire week will be filled with the soothing sound of music. Sherrie’s uplifting voice, harmonium, flute, and whatever music YOU bring will fill the jungle air with joy and camaraderie.
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Mantra & Kirtan
Together, we will chant these sacred sounds of love, time capsules of consciousness that arose from the depths of devotion and spiritual practice over the millennia. Mantra, (derived from the Sanskrit “a tool for the mind,” or to “set free the mind”) tames restless thought helping you access the deep being you truly are, connected to a divine source.
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Yoga
Most mornings you will be led in a yoga class that encourages individual expression and flow. We’ll begin with centering and pranayama. Then we’ll explore gentle stretches followed by an asana (posture) practice which will end in savasana (our final relaxation posture). You will be encouraged to listen to the wisdom of your own body. Utmost care will be given to individual needs.
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Meditation
We will practice a variety of techniques for stilling, witnessing, playing with, and enjoying each passing state of mind: mantra, body scans, breath awareness, and meditation-in-motion. Each practice will be held in atmosphere of ease, fun, and joy.
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Pranayama
Breathing techniques shown to promote balance, vitality, and focus will be offered on a daily basis along with singing, a pranayama so natural one hardly thinks about it. From the Sanskrit Prana meaning life force or breath, and Yama or Ayama, restraint or release, pranayama allows us both the control of the life force and the surrender into the flow of that very essence.
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Labyrinth Meditation
Labyrinth meditation involves slowly walking a winding, circular path to the center and back, focusing the mind and promoting relaxation. Unlike a maze, it has a single, clear route, allowing for calm contemplation. This practice helps align the body, mind, and spirit, offering insights, peace, and stress relief.
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Relaxation
In addition to the bliss that surrounds you after chanting, restful time at the retreat center, stunning sunsets, and a deep connection to nature, we will explore the practices of Restorative Yoga and Yoga Nidra. In the practice of Restorative Yoga, you will be gently guided into restorative postures with props allowing for the complete relaxation of the body in various positions.
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Yoga Nidra
Yoga Nidra or yogic sleep, is a guided relaxation where you have the opportunity to receive deep nourishment and rest through guided body scans, breath awareness, and imagery that can bring you into a state between sleep and wakefulness. Your entire week revolves around finding that natural state of deep relaxation beneath the habitual thoughts.
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Cacao Ceremony
Cacao Ceremony is an expansive ceremony using the transformational medicine of cacao. We'll share a cup of rich, ceremonial-grade cacao, known for its ability to open the heart and elevate the spirit. Guided by soothing music and calming mantras, our meditation will help you unlock profound inner transformation and a deep sense of connection.
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Waterfall Hike & Swim
We will go on a rejuvenating hike through Costa Rica's lush rainforest, leading to a stunning waterfall. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the waters beneath the falls, surrounded by the sounds of nature. This invigorating adventure promises both tranquility and a deep connection with the natural world.
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Farmer’s Market Walking Tour
Explore the vibrant Farmer’s Market in Atenas, Costa Rica, on a guided walking tour. Discover fresh, local produce, artisanal goods, and traditional foods while immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere. This tour offers a delightful taste of Costa Rican culture and community.
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Beach Trip to the Pacific Ocean
Spend a blissful day on the sun-kissed beaches of Costa Rica, where golden sands meet turquoise waters. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beach games, or simply relax with the soothing sound of the waves. This perfect beach day offers a chance to unwind, soak up the sun, and connect with the natural beauty around you.
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Ecstatic Dance with Guest Teacher DTO
Join DTO for an electrifying Ecstatic Dance experience! Move freely to uplifting beats, connect with your body, and unleash your authentic self. Let the rhythm guide you into a state of pure joy and freedom. Feel the energy of the music, release any tension, and dance like nobody's watching. This is your moment to shine, connect in community, and celebrate life through the power of dance.
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Transformational Movement Session with Guest Teacher Hemalayaa
Hemalayaa combines yoga with free-form dance and positive affirmations to remove the obstacles to perfect health, our most radiant-self, and ultimately our still and unwavering center. She uses powerful (wild) practices to recycle the negative thoughts and transcend them into powerful intentions for our lives.
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Nature
Who can take their own narrow perspective too seriously when surrounded by monkeys as one walks by, or beautiful birds that take your breath away, or a stunning sunset every night right before dinner, itself an offering of nature for your well being? The presence of such powerful life force in the air you breathe can connect you to a place of sustainable energy and bliss.
About Embody Costa Rica














Embody Costa Rica is a retreat center located in the charming central american mountain town of Atenas, Costa Rica.
Authentic Costa Rican Experience It offers a unique opportunity to have a true Central American experience and immerse yourself in the local culture. Many people come to Costa Rica and only experience life in the confines of the retreat center or hotel they stay in, without really getting to know the culture. Embody Costa Rica believes in integrating with the locals, land, and culture so that you can get the full experience of this beautiful country.
Best Climate in the World National Geographic named Atenas, Costa Rica the best climate in the world. Atenas enjoys a pleasant tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. The town experiences a distinct dry season from December to April, with abundant sunshine and lower humidity. The wet season typically spans May to November, bringing occasional showers that keep the landscape lush and green.
Stunning Large Yoga Shala Embody Costa Rica has a large yoga shala overlooking the vibrant jungle trees, a perfect sanctuary to experience deep transformation.
Labyrinth On the property is a seven-circut labyrinth,a meditative pathway consisting of seven concentric circles leading to a center point. As you walk its winding path, you traverse both inward and outward, symbolizing a journey of reflection, clarity, and spiritual growth. This ancient design invites contemplation and relaxation, offering a serene space for personal introspection and peace.
Professional Kitchen & Beautiful Dining Space There is a professional kitchen, stunningly beautiful outdoor dining space, as well as an indoor dining space nestled beneath the yoga shala.
Outdoor Shower Indulge in an invigorating outdoor shower nestled amidst Costa Rica's lush jungle foliage. Refresh under cascading water surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature, offering a serene and rejuvenating experience.
Recording Studio Nestled beneath the shala is a professional recording studio where you can book recording sessions with award winning music producer DTO.
Healthy Fresh Food Your stay at Embody Costa Rica includes three gourmet gulten-free vegetarian meals a day. As much as possible, your meals are prepared from fresh, locally-sourced, organic produce.
Embody Shuttle Take a ride on the Embody Shuttle, which is a sweet little tuk tuk. A tuk tuk is a compact, three-wheeled vehicle commonly found in many Asian and Latin American countries. With its open-air design and nimble maneuverability, riding a tuk tuk provides a unique and memorable travel experience.
Complementary Wifi Complimentary wireless service is available throughout the property. We would, however, recommend that you take this time to “unplug” and renew your connection to yourself and the natural world around you.
Have a question and want to chat?
Your Accommodations at Embody Costa Rica
All accommodations are for 7 days and 7 nights and include retreat programming and all meals (meals are vegetarian and organic whenever possible).
All accommodations except for the Labyrinth Room (which is on the Embody property) are nearby homes that are within walking distance or a short drive. Some of the homes have pools.
















All Inclusive Pricing per person includes housing, food & program sessions:
Receive a $333 discount on the retreat if you book by August 1, 2025 and pay in full.
• Room shared with 2 people (1 bed Queen)
$3,222.00 per participant
(1 bed Queen: only choose this option if you know your bedmate already and are booking together)
• Room shared with 2 people (1 bed King)
$3,333 per participant
(1 bed King: only choose this option if you know your bedmate already and are booking together)
• Private room for 1 person (1 bed Double)
$3,677 per participant
• Private room for 1 person (1 bed Queen)
$3,777 per participant
• Private room for 1 person (1 bed King)
$3,888 per participant
There are a VERY LIMITED number of spaces available.
Receive a $222 discount on the retreat if you book by August 1, 2026 and pay in full.
A non-refundable deposit of $600 is required to reserve your space.
Have a question? Let’s chat. Book a 1-on-1 call with me.
Excluded expenses:
Airfare to Costa Rica
Transportation outside of the designated window of time from airport to Embody Costa Rica
Any meals outside of Embody Costa Rica
Costa Rica departure tax
Additional shuttles to town and beaches
Healing Arts Treatments
Travel Insurance: We HIGHLY recommend that you consider purchasing Travel Insurance. Travel insurance companies like TRAVEL GUARD or insuremytrip.com offer policies that insure your investment in case you need to cancel (including “cancel for any reason” coverages), coverages for expenses incurred due to to weather & travel delays, personal property loss and emergency travel medical. Please review policies carefully to choose the coverage you need.
What People are Saying…
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“Thank you Sherrie. I love you. I love your work. When I am anxious at night and I can't sleep I listen to your meditations and your music. Your voice is so calming, your presence is wonderful, and I definitely would not miss the next program. For me it's very helpful in continuing to feel better. You are a masterful teacher devoted to the work that lies within your passions.”
- Ariel Farber
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“I'm so incredibly glad that I took Sherrie's course! She has an amazing way of creating a safe, expressive environment for students and her classes were both inspiring and informative. I am walking away with a newfound connection not only to myself, but also to the other amazing students. There were valuable teachings for students of every level and comfort zone. Sherrie has a true gift of holding space for others and her joy in expression is contagious. I'm truly grateful to know her and learn from her. I highly recommend experiencing her work and her energy firsthand.”
- Emma Lemcke
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“Sherrie's program was an amazing, life affirming experience and I will forever be grateful for it. I learned so much more that I had expected. If you ever get the chance to take a program of her's I recommend it. This experience has allowed me to tap into a part of myself that needed some attention and healing. Sherrie’s style of teaching is compassionate, nurturing and encouraging. She brings such joy, experience, and exuberance. You feel held and supported through the whole experience. Give yourself a gift. Experience for yourself the many talents and gifts that Sherrie has to offer.”
-Gail Alexander, Multidimensional Artist, Intuitive, Author
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"I love Sherrie's programs - they are some of the best I have done. Her attention to detail and passion shine through. Sherrie is such a wonderful and inspirational teacher. Everything she teaches is so well explained and clear and her yoga classes are so nurturing and amazing."
- Sarah Harries
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“Sherrie provided a space for connection, deep practice, community and fun. The music was fabulous and the practices varied and just absolutely perfect. I would recommend this to anyone who wants to feel connection, take time for nurturing the heart and soul. Sherrie beams love and compassion and the flow of the program was delightful. I am ready to sign up again”
- Charlyn Reihman
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“Sherrie's yoga program was a bright, luminescent force which brought love, compassion, and kindness into my day. You could just tangibly feel the connection of yoga.”
- Linda Madsen
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“The program was well structured and rich. I think that one of the most important things to me was finding a place of trust. I found it with Sherrie.”
- Francesco Bocchini
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“The love and inspiration from Sherrie is priceless. The knowledge of mantra, breath, and yoga is so valuable and easy to retain because it is simple and abundant. There is no confusion, no stress to memorize, it just flows. Sherrie has a real talent to be able to capture and convey things in such a way.”
- Kremena Tobin
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“Sherrie’s program was wonderful. Sherrie is a fabulous yoga teacher. Everything from the mantra practice to Yoga Nidra to the yoga classes were great. Sherrie is a true professional who cares about her clients and is committed to serving them/us to the fullest.”
- Gail Cantor
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“Sherrie Howard is an extraordinary musician and chanter. The combination of her open heart, depth of devotion, and her professional musical training makes her the quintessential in-demand kirtan vocalist. She sang on my most recent album, “Invocation: Heart of Darkness and Light, Music and Mantras for Creating Sacred Space” and totally captured the feeling, tone, and concept instantly. Sherrie is an amazing musician worth checking out. Her music sends me into celestial realms. I know she’ll do the same for you.”
- Todd Norian, Founder of Ashaya Yoga
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“Sherrie is not only an incredible Kirtan Wallah, musician/artist, performer and yogi, she is a beautiful, warm-hearted person. As we share the common thread and love of mantra, she continues to create the most wonderful chants and melodies. My heart opens and I feel a deep inner peace when I listen to her music. A powerful blend of a trained voice with her devotion to the ancient healing tones of the Sanskrit language transcend any listener to a state of balance and calm. It's been a pleasure getting to know Sherrie and working with her over the past few years. I encourage all to explore her work. Her music is sublime.”
- Rajeshwari Gretchen Carmel, Sanskrit Mantra Teacher, Yogi, Pujari/Vedic Priest
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“Sherrie is a shining light and talented woman. When she sings and plays any of the numerous instruments she has mastered, those in her presence are moved to feelings of joy and tears for a longing to know something bigger than the self. Her dedication to her art has manifested in numerous compositions that are heartfelt. Thank you Sherrie for sharing your love with us all.”
- Vandita Kate Marchesiello, Kripalu Historian, Kripalu Yoga Faculty, Recording Artist
Have a question and want to chat?
About Your Retreat Leader
Sherrie Howard
Sherrie Howard is a multi-talented international kirtan artist, 1000-hour certified Kripalu yoga teacher, nature guide, sound healer, and Indiana University Jacobs School of Music trained vocalist. Thousands of people across the globe have delighted in Sherrie’s unique blend of yoga, healing, and music.
In addition to leading yoga retreats and programs both online and in person, she has recorded and toured both locally and internationally with her own kirtan band and has performed with several of the most well-known chant artists in the world including Jaya Lakshmi, Govindas, Girish, Johanna Beekman, Deva Premal & Miten, Ben Leinbach, and others. She loves to share her beautiful singing voice in her classes and workshops.
She has shared her offerings at some of the most prestigious retreat centers in the world including Kripalu Center, Miraval, Canyon Ranch, Blue Spirit, Bodhi Tree, and Omega Institute. You may have seen sharing her gifts at Sedona Yoga Festival, Berkshire Yoga Festival, EnVision Festival, Bhakti Love Festival, Love Light Festival, and Bhakti Stock Festival.
Music has been part of her life since she was very young and she shares its dynamic and healing power with others. Sherrie empowers individuals to step into positivity, self-love, and balance.
In addition to shining her own light brightly, she loves to support others in helping to shine their light in the world. Let’s lift each other up in love.
About Your Guest Teachers
DTO & Hemalayaa
DTO is an award-winning music producer, designing inspirational music that raises the vibrations of the planet. DTO kicked off his career with a spark with his remix of “Love Me” by Grammy-nominated producer, StoneBridge. DTO is passionate about creating unique multi-sensory experiences through music designed to elevate human consciousness and give back to our global communities through his work with non-profits. DTO performs his live yoga music internationally with world-renowned yogis and yoginis, including Hemalayaa and Cristi Christensen.
Hemalayaa empowers thousands of people internationally with her unique blend of traditional and modern lifestyle programs, workshops and videos. She stars in numerous DVDs. She also hosts her own TV show, “BollyBlast”, bringing fitness to a whole new level of fun. Hemalayaa provides tools to experience a balanced state of being, true self-acceptance and a passion for life. Hemalayaa’s specialty is supporting women in their FULL potential to Embody their delicious dream life!
Have a question and want to chat?
Travel to Embody Costa Rica
Location, Travel & Directions
Embody Costa Rica is located in the mountain town of Atenas, Costa Rica. It is only a 20 minute drive from the San Jose Airport.
Transport to Embody Costa Rica is included in your stay if you arrive on the first day of the retreat and depart on the final day of the retreat. Transportation is not included on other days.
Go to the Waze app and type in Embody Costa Rica and the pin will appear with the exact location.
A valid and up to date passport from your home country is needed to enter Costa Rica if you are not a Costa Rican citizen.
There is a $29 departure tax payable at either San José or Liberia airport before exiting Costa Rica. It can be paid in US dollars, Costa Rican Colones or with a credit card
We don’t recommend renting a car for this retreat, but if you choose to rent a car from the airport, there are many options, Alamo, Budget, Economy, etc. These sites can be found online by googling them + San Jose, Costa Rica. We recommend you reserve your car when you purchase your airline tickets and confirm all car rental costs for what exactly is included. You can save some $$ by consulting with your credit card company (AmEx has a good program) regarding car rental insurance. Bear in mind that car rental costs in Costa Rica often do not reflect the insurance fees you may be assessed at the rental counter. Even with credit card insurance waivers you will still be required to purchase some form of insurance if you rent a car.
We HIGHLY RECOMMEND purchasing travel insurance for your trip in case you need to cancel for any reason.