Rooted Service Retreat

Indigenous Spirituality, Reciprocity & Healing in Guatemala

We welcome you to a 7-day immersive experience that blends Indigenous wisdom, social justice, and holistic wellness, offering the possibility to learn, serve, and heal together in a way that is deeply intentional, heart-opening, and reciprocal.

A journey of transformation and connection that expands the definition of “retreat.” Together we will seek to become not just tourists, but partners with the land and the people who steward her.

The Three Branches of the Retreat

  • Led by Jesse Rose (Schaghticoke Tribal Nation, Indigenous American), this retreat invites participants to deepen their connection with Mother Earth, the plants, and the people of Guatemala. We come as students, honoring the traditions of the land and its Indigenous wisdom keepers, like Mayan Shaman T’zules, with the understanding that we are guests of this land.

    • Cacao & Coffee Farm Visits – Learn the true origins of these sacred plants and the people who cultivate them.

    • Mayan Cacao Ceremony – Engage in a heart-opening ritual guided by local Mayan shaman, T’zules.

    • Exploring Native Plant Wisdom – Understand the spirit of the plants that have been used for centuries in healing and ceremony.

    • Mayan Fire Ceremony (Optional) – A traditional offering of gratitude and connection to the elements, led by T’zules.

  • Hakim has been working with Project Genesis—a school for underserved youth in Guatemala—since 2014. Unlike traditional “volunteerism,” this retreat flips the script on service, shifting the perspective from "helping" to mutual exchange and deep listening. Participants will witness and learn from the resilience, joy, and strength of the children and families of Guatemala, while also contributing financial support through retreat proceeds.

    • 2- 3 Visits to Project Genesis – Build genuine relationships with the children and educators.

    • Service Work – Participate in meaningful projects that support the school and its mission.

    • Guided Reflections & Integration Sessions – Process the experience in community and discuss ways to take this learning home.

    • Reshaping Wealth & Giving – A chance to challenge our ideas about privilege, access, and responsibility.

    • Learn more about Project Genesis here

  • This retreat is as much about inner transformation as it is about outward service. Each day includes intentional practices to help you integrate what you are experiencing, while also prioritizing your well-being.

    • Daily Yoga & Meditation – Grounding Yoga, movement and breathwork to support your journey.

    • Temazcal (Mayan Sauna) – A traditional sweat lodge experience for deep purification.

    • Guided Volcano Hike & Nature Exploration – Connect with the raw beauty of Guatemala.

    • Massage & Sound Healing (Optional Add-Ons) – Personalized wellness treatments for restoration.

    • Community Integration Circles – Reflect on your experience, share insights, and leave with tools to bring this transformation into your daily life.

The Impact

A significant portion of your retreat investment goes directly to Project Genesis, a grassroots Guatemalan led non-profit organization that provides education, nutrition, and opportunities for underserved children in San Andrés Itzapa, Guatemala. This is deeper than visiting a school—it holds medicine for our future generations as we build relationships, learn from the community, and contribute in a meaningful, ethical way. By saying yes to this retreat, you are directly supporting the future of these bright and beautiful children while also saying yes to inner growth and transformation that serves all of our relations.

  • Seek a deeper way to travel beyond tourism

  • Want to engage with Indigenous wisdom and social justice through real experiences

  • Love to embrace wellness, healing, and personal growth

  • Seek to remember their sacred connection with Mother Earth & Plant Spirits

  • Are open to challenging old paradigms and stepping into a new way of relating to the world

  • Value rest and meaningful action, recognizing wellness extends beyond self

  • Want to serve others without engaging in saviorism or extractive tourism

  • Believe in community healing, collective liberation, and reciprocal service.

This retreat is for those who:

Your Facilitators

  • T’zules

    Mayan Spirituality and Indigenous Ceremonies

    T’zules is a local Mayan Spiritual Guide who was raised in a family with a strong spiritual lineage. She was guided from a young age to listen to her intuition and embrace her sacred path. As a spiritual guide, she has transcended darkness and now serves as a warrior of light, protecting Mother Earth and defending Indigenous traditions. Her mission is to ensure the legacy of her ancestors is respected and preserved. T’zules offers Mayan ceremonies and spiritual guidance, helping participants connect to ancestral wisdom and the deeper purpose of their journey.

    We are blessed to be able to learn and uplift Indigenous peoples of this land. We are honored to have T’zules lead a Cacao ceremony, and Fire ceremony and leading indigenous wisdom talks.

  • Ricardo Oscar Armas Castellano

    Founder of Project Genesis

    Ricardo is a Guatemalan author, educator, and activist who has dedicated his life to the children of San Andrés Itzapa. Despite having very little himself, he has given his time, resources, and energy to creating a better future for underserved youth. Ricardo is a passionate storyteller and a visionary leader, and it is our hope to one day support his dream of becoming a successful writer. He will share his story and his mission with participants during our visits to Project Genesis.

    Hakim has been working with Ricardo and Project Genesis since 2014. Jesse Rose and Hakim trust you will feel Ricardo’s passion and love for our future generations.

  • Jesse Rose

    Co-Facilitator: Indigenous Spirituality, Yoga Teacher, & Plant Spirit Medicine Woman

    Jesse Rose is a member of the Schagthicoke Tribal Nation (Indigenous American) and has a deep connection to the spirit of plants, animals, and Mother earth. She is honored to guide attendees in honoring the Indigenous wisdom and building meaningful relationships with the native plants and people of Guatemala, as well as our Earth Mother. Through ceremonies, plant teachings, and immersive experiences, Jesse Rose is sharing the remembrance of how to relate to the earth in a sacred way. She will also be guiding our Yoga classes, mediation, movement, and sound healings.

  • Hakim Noah

    Co-Facilitator: Social Justice and Service Work, Massage Therapist

    Hakim has been working with Project Genesis since 2014 and brings over a decade of experience in ethical service work. His approach to service is rooted in mutual learning and exchange, rejecting the traditional model of “volunteerism” and instead focusing on relationship-building and reciprocity. Hakim facilitates guided discussions on wealth, privilege, and global inequities while helping participants engage in service with humility, gratitude, and intention.***

  • Jossue Armas

    Transportation & Guided Activities

    José is an experienced and trusted tour and adventure guide who will be providing transportation and leading our guided adventures throughout the retreat. We absolutely love Jose’s joyful, passionate, and aware nature—a truly special human. José ensures that participants have safe and meaningful experiences while exploring the beauty of his homeland in Guatemala… we know from experience!

Secure Your Spot on This Transformative Journey

Where you’ll stay

Nestled in the lush mountains on a working organic avocado farm just outside Antigua, Earth Lodge will be our home for the retreat. This unique eco-lodge is known for its breathtaking views, tranquil setting, and deep connection to nature. Accommodations are comfortable, rustic, and sustainable.

  • Private, double, or shared accommodations available with private bathrooms and showers with organic local bath products

  • Panoramic views, volcanos, nature trails, and peaceful surroundings

  • Unlimited access to the Temazcal (Mayan sauna)

What you will eat

At Earth Lodge, meals feature fresh, organic, locally sourced ingredients. The kitchen offers plant-forward dishes inspired by Guatemalan flavors, catering to various dietary needs. These meals are more than just food; they are an opportunity to connect, reflect, and nourish yourself deeply with the bounty of Mother Earth.

What to Expect:

  • 3 nourishing meals daily, prepared with care

  • Freshly brewed Guatemalan coffee

  • Unlimited purified water and herbal teas

Dietary Accommodations:

  • Vegan, vegetarian, and pescatarian options available

  • Gluten-free and other restrictions accommodated with notice

What you’ll do

This retreat offers a flexible, personalized experience with optional sessions. Engage in activities that resonate with you, whether immersing fully or taking time for rest. Shape your own journey.

    • Participants arrive at La Aurora International Airport (GUA) and take a group shuttle to Earth Lodge.

    • Settle into accommodations, enjoy a nourishing organic welcoming dinner, and begin the retreat with an Opening Circle + optional Temezcal (Mayan Sauna)

    • Morning yoga & meditation followed by a nourishing breakfast.

    • Visit a cacao & coffee farm to learn about the sacred plants of the region.

    • Participate in a cultural sharing circle exploring Indigenous traditions, reciprocity, and connection to the land.

    • Free time for rest, nature walks, ice bath, massage, etc.

    • Flower Essence 101 Workshop

    • Optional Temazcal (Mayan sauna) in the evening for relaxation and purification.

    • Travel to Project Genesis, where we will engage in meaningful service with the children and educators.

    • Return to Earth Lodge for lunch, rest, and integration time.

    • Facilitated discussion on privilege, service, and social justice.

    • Evening reflection and optional wellness offerings (massage, sound healing, or Temazcal).

    • A slow morning with yoga and meditation, allowing for deeper rest.

    • Optional Mayan Fire or Cacao Ceremony led by a local spiritual guide.

    • Mid day movement/Foundation Training session

    • Time for journaling, personal reflection, and restorative practices.

    • Community sharing circle to process and integrate experiences.

    • Evening Yoga Nidra practice

    • Participants choose between:

      • A full-day Acatenango Volcano hike for those seeking challenge & adventure: please note this hike is very active and considered difficult.

      • A 5-6 hour trip to the active volcano Pacaya. At 2552m Volcan Pacaya is less challenging than our other hikes, but the views and volcanic landscape make it so worthwhile and it is still a great adventure. This is considered an easy level.

      • A relaxed day in Antigua exploring local culture, markets, and history.

    • Evening integration circle reflecting on challenges, transformation, and growth.

    • Final visit to Project Genesis for closing service and gratitude.

    • Space to honor the journey, set intentions for integration, and share final reflections.

    • Reflective closing circle & celebration dinner at Earth Lodge.

    • Evening Sound Healing led by Jesse Rose

    • Morning yoga & meditation followed by a farewell breakfast.

    • Group shuttle to the airport for departures back home

Energy Exchange

The Rooted Service Retreat is an offering born of love, reciprocity, and right relationship with the Earth, Indigenous wisdom, and community. Your contribution supports not only your personal transformation, but also uplifts Indigenous teachers, local healers/workers, and the children of Project Genesis, to whom a generous portion of all proceeds will be donated.

Investment Options:

  • A beautiful option for friends or those open to sharing space with others. We honor each participant’s identity and will pair you with roommates based on your preferences and how you self-identify. There will be space in your intake form to share what would feel most comfortable and supportive for you.

  • Ideal for friends or partners, or for those open to being paired with others. We honor each participant’s identity and will pair you with roommates based on your preferences and how you self-identify. There will be space in your intake form to share what would feel most comfortable and supportive for you.

  • For those craving solitude and deep integration, our private cabins, or cabinitas, offer a serene escape from the world.

    Please note that availability is limited, and these private accommodations are offered on a first-come, first-served basis so please register asap.

  • 6 nights accommodation at Earth Lodge

    • 3 nourishing meals per day

    • All retreat programming, Cacao ceremony, and workshops

    • Transportation to/from Guatemala City (on arrival and departure days)

    • Daily yoga, meditation, and healing sessions

    • Guided service immersion with Project Genesis

    • Cacao & coffee farm visits

    • Indigenous wisdom teachings and cultural exchanges

    • Integration support and post-retreat resources

    Airfare to Guatemala is not included.

  • We are committed to economic justice and honoring the diverse realities of those called to this work. Payment plans are available for everyone (select payment plan at check out). We also welcome BIPOC and LGBTQ+ folks to reach out if cost is a barrier.

  • This retreat is rooted in mutual support— therefore we are offering 1 partial scholarship ($1,000 off) for a triple occupancy room for our BIPOC relatives! The total you will need to pay is $900.

    To apply for the scholarship please click below.

    Note: There is a scholarship fund so in the chance we raise enough funds we may be able to offer more scholarship opportunities.

Support the Scholarship Fund

We aim to make this retreat accessible to often-excluded healing groups, particularly BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ individuals. If inspired, please consider contributing to our scholarship fund to help others benefit from this work. Every dollar supports solidarity and reciprocity.

Optional Add-Ons

Please note a portion of all retreat add-ons profits will go to Project Genesis.

Facilitator Led Add-ons

  • A custom 1:1 experience to support your nervous system, integration, and spiritual alignment. Choose between sound healing or intuitive movement & yoga therapy.

  • Receive grounded, intuitive support through the lens of Indigenous herbalism and Earth-based wisdom. Choose between a personalized herbal consultation or a custom flower essence therapy session to support emotional and spiritual integration. Each session includes a mini take-home remedy crafted with care.

  • Work one-on-one with Hakim in Foundation Training—a powerful movement method to relieve pain, build strength, and ground your energy through aligned posture and breath. Especially supportive for chronic pain, fatigue, or back/neck tension.

Local Add-ons (Support the Community)

  • Led by local Mayan Healer, Tz’ules-the Temazcal Ceremony is a powerful ancient therapy tht works through heat, natural aromatic medicinal plants, natural mud and exfoliants, and herbal baths. The 4 cardinal elements, chakra activation, drumming, and chanting are used to help eliminate toxins from the body and spirit at all levels. Recommended for groups of 6 or less at a time, due to the capacity of the Temazcal (mayan sauna).

  • Experience deep rest and recalibration with a massage from one of the incredible Guatemalan therapists we work with. Your session supports the local economy and helps sustain traditional healing practices.

  • A shared experience for couples, partners, or close friends who wish to receive side-by-side healing sessions. A beautiful way to drop in together during the retreat and support the local massage therapists.

  • A powerful somatic reset guided by experienced facilitators. The cold plunge supports your immune system, circulation, and mental clarity.

Other local wellness or cultural options may be available depending on timing. We'll provide more details as the retreat gets closer.

Together, we will honor the Indigenous traditions of Guatemala, engage in meaningful service with Project Genesis, and tend to our relationships with Mother Earth and the plant spirits through Cacao, Coffee, and healing rituals.

 FAQs

  • 🛏️ 6 nights of lodging at Earth Lodge (single, double and triple occupancy options each with private bathroom and shower)
    🌿 3 organic meals daily (vegan/vegetarian/pescatarian options from vibrant locally sourced food)
    ☕ Unlimited herbal teas, local coffee and purified water
    🧘🏽‍♀️ Daily yoga & meditation, including Vinyasa, align, Yoga Nidra, gentle and restorative, etc. taught by Jesse Rose (optional)
    🌸 Mayan Cacao Ceremony with T’zules (optional)
    👣 Movement classes, including Animal Flow, Foundation Training taught by Hakim and Jesse Tose (optional)
    🎵 Sound Healing co-created by Jesse Rose and Hakim (optional)
    🌈 A portion of proceeds donated to Project Genesis
    🚐  All scheduled journeys, including farm tours, ceremonies (optional)
    🌋 Guided volcano and/or nature hike with moderate to advanced level (optional)
    🔥 Unlimited access to the Temazcal (Mayan sauna)
    📍 Transportation to and from all travel activities, including airport pick up and drop off, visit to downtown Antigua, etc.
    🌺 Take home Flower Essence (optional)
    ✨ Group integration & reflection circles

  • ❌ Flights to and from Guatemala City (GUA)
    ❌ Airport transfers outside the designated group shuttle time
    ❌ Alcoholic beverages, specialty drinks, or additional snacks
    ❌ Massages, sound healing, and private ceremonies (available as add-ons)
    ❌ Extra activities beyond what’s listed in the itinerary
    ❌ Travel insurance (highly recommended)

  • Most participants will fly into La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City. We recommend arriving between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, as we will have a group shuttle departing around 2:30 PM. If you arrive earlier or later, we can help arrange alternative transportation. The drive to Earth Lodge is about 1-1.5 hours.

  • 🛂 Passport (valid for at least 6 months from arrival date)
    🥾 Comfortable walking/hiking shoes. Hiking boots if participating in the advanced level hike
    🌧️ Raincoat + Pullover Jacket (for volcano hike & cooler evenings)
    💧 Camelbak and reusable water bottle
    ☀️ Sunscreen & bug spray
    📖 Notebook or journal for reflections
    💊 Any personal medications or first aid essentials
    👕 Light, breathable clothing for warm days
    🧥 Layers for cooler evenings
    ✨ A sense of openness and curiosity

  • This retreat is accessible to most fitness levels. While some activities, like hiking and yoga, involve movement, they are optional. You may choose a gentler hike instead of a challenging one, or opt for a slower-paced day in Antigua rather than an excursion.

  • February is part of Guatemala’s dry season, meaning warm, sunny days and cool evenings. Expect temperatures around 75°F (24°C) during the day and cooler evenings (50-60°F / 10-15°C).

  • Due to the intimate nature of this retreat and the advance planning required, all deposits are non-refundable. However, we do allow transfers—meaning if you can’t attend, you may gift or sell your spot to another participant. More details on the cancellation policy will be provided at the time of booking.

  • We feel strongly about creating an intimate space for this retreat. Therefore, we have a limited number of spaces available with a max of 12 and a total of 14 including the facilitators.

  • Although not required, we recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to cover potential flight delays, cancellations, medical emergencies, or unexpected trip interruptions.

  • While Spanish is the primary language spoken in Guatemala, you do not need to be fluent to attend this retreat. We do however highly encourage learning basic phrases or using translation tools to enhance your experience and honor the language of the people. This action towards understanding the basics of the language align deeply with the intention of this retreat. We recommend:

    📱 Downloading the Google Translate app for easy communication
    📖 Learning a few key Spanish phrases before arrival
    🗣️ Engaging with locals with curiosity & respect—even small efforts in Spanish are appreciated
    🤝 Knowing that co-facilitator Hakim is fluent in Spanish and will assist with translations as needed

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