Women's Wellness Escape: A Peaceful Desert Holiday Retreat in Joshua Tree

Not Home for the Holidays was born from a time when Sandy couldn't go home for the holidays and found herself in the desert instead. That unexpected stillness became a yearly tradition, and this retreat is an invitation to experience that same kind of peace. The focus here is on being present, releasing the stress of the season, and connecting with a community of women who understand that the holidays can feel complicated.

Each day has a gentle rhythm, starting with Yin yoga or a slow-flow Vinyasa class suitable for all levels, led by Sandy. Mornings also include pranayama (breathwork) and guided meditations designed to calm the nervous system. Afternoons might bring a silent meditative nature hike through Joshua Tree's striking landscape, or a workshop on gratitude and reflection to help you set positive intentions for the year ahead.

A key part of the experience is daily sound bathing, where Sandy uses crystal singing bowls, Peter Hess Sound Massage bowls, tuning forks, and ocean wave sounds to tap into all seven chakras. This practice was born during her chemotherapy and has become a profound tool for deep relaxation and healing. Evenings often feature a fire ritual to release the past year and a Freedom Flow Movement Dance to shake off inhibitions and celebrate joy.

The retreat is hosted in a luxurious Airbnb, carefully chosen for its comfort and amenities like a pool, hot tub, and cold plunge. All meals, classes, and gatherings happen in this home, creating a cozy, intimate atmosphere. With a maximum of 10 women, the group stays small enough for genuine connection. Sandy's approach is warm and practical—she shares simple, powerful tools for mindset and well-being that you can take back into daily life, tools she used to thrive through stage 4 cancer.

What's included

- Gorgeous comfortable accommodations with great amenities - Beautifully curated gift bag, prepared with love - Three delicious, nourishing meals each day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) - Daily Sound Bathing with Crystal singing bowls, Peter Hess Sound Massage, Tibetan bowls, and tuning forks - Daily Yin yoga and gentle Slow-Flow Vinyasa sessions - Water, tea, and coffee served throughout the day - Transformative workshops for inner growth - Daily pranayama (breathwork) classes and guided meditations - Group excursions to a favorite spot in Joshua Tree - Transportation during the retreat to excursions - Luggage storage - Wifi connection - Plenty of parking - Pre and post retreat support from our team

What's not included

- Airport transfers - Flights costs - Travel insurance - Visa fee - Additional activities not included in the itinerary