Embodied Awakenings
Joshua Tree, California
Yoga Retreat
April 8-11, 2027
You are likely carrying far more than anyone realizes.
Sure, from the outside, it looks like you're doing fine.
You eat healthy, you practice yoga,
have lots of friends + a secure job.
It seems like you have it all together.
But what about what everyone else can't see?
+ Pressure to provide for + prioritize others, hold everything together, and push through despite the voice in your head and feeling in your gut that says you were made for something else.
+ Grief from lost relationships, what you thought your life would look like by now, or what feels like an unstoppable avalanche of change…
And of course...
+ Your own internal dialogue that denies yourself permission to do things differently + rebel against the status quo.
So right now, you're settling.
But you're craving a freedom that feels unattainable.
Here's the good news, babe:
You can create a life you're obsessed with.
But the solution isn't another strategy, book, or podcast.
You need space.
+ Space to remember who you are + what you desire, outside of your children, job title, relationship, beyond the roles, responsibilities + many hats you wear.
+ Space to finally process emotions you've been carrying for years (if not generations)
+ Space to breathe, hear your own voice again, and then go home and act on the choices you've made while you were in your clearest state of mind
This Retreat will create the conditions for reflection, deep healing, + change that everyday life often cannot: It will give you freedom to choose differently. With the support of myself + a community of women who want only the best for you, on your own terms.
You'll be given the tools to trust the process exactly as it is – because it's all medicine, + reminded that it's not only safe, but necessary to put yourself first.
This Retreat in Joshua Tree – a weekend to step back from your daily environment – isn't a luxury, it's a necessity for your nervous system.
This Retreat Is For You If…
+ Your nervous system needs a reset—a chance to clear emotional blocks, restore your energy, release stress, + embody a new way of being.
+ You're already walking a spiritual path – you've tried meditation, + listening to The Alchemist on audiobook while driving to yoga, but you're still seeking the deeper meaning underneath it all + wondering why your life feels different than how you envisioned it 5 years ago…
+ Craving a freedom that doesn't feel accessible given the situation you are in + the cards you've been dealt.
+ Seeking a change – perhaps a really big (scary) one, but not sure where to start or who to lean on for support.
+ You’re ready to tend to your own needs rather than everyone else's so you can create a deeper connection with yourself, nature, + other like-minded women.
If this freedom, clarity, + change is what you're seeking, you're meant to join this retreat + sisterhood.
What To Expect:
+ You get to meditate without feeling hurried, sleep soundly under the desert stars, + be fully taken care of – instead of taking care of everyone around you.
+ You'll reconnect with your body + your innate wisdom through practices like breathwork, tapping, somatic movement, + hiking.
+ You get to see your life from the outside looking in, + notice where you can pivot from your most grounded, calm, + clear point of view after implementing these + cleansing practices.
What's Next?
Select your room + submit your deposit.
Shifts will begin the moment you say YES!
Shared Room
awaken 1
OCCUPANCY: 3
AWAKEN is the dream accommodation for you if you're seeking quality time with your besties, siblings, or other loved ones, and MAXIMUM SPACIOUSNESS + LUXURY.
Features two twin beds + one twin day bed, an ensuite bathroom with a shower and double sinks, + an insane soaking tub – see below!
The fireplace brings the cozy, boho-chic vibe up another level.
SHARED TUITION:
$2699 PER PERSON
Shared Room
AWAKEN 2
OCCUPANCY: 2
It's giving luxury summer camp vibes!
AWAKEN 2 is a bunk room that'll bring out your inner child.
Features one bunk with two twin beds + shared bathrooms with AWAKEN 3 + AWAKEN 4.
SHARED TUITION:
$2299 PER PERSON
Private (or shared) Rooms
AWAKEN 3
+ AWAKEN 4
OCCUPANCY: 1-2
AWAKEN 3 + AWAKEN 4 are ideal options if you're seeking privacy; they're nearly identical rooms with the same amenities.
Recruit a girlfriend, your mama, or another soul sister to join you, or opt to reserve one of these rooms all for yourself.
Each features two twin beds that can be merged into one, with shared bathrooms with AWAKEN 2, AWAKEN 3, + AWAKEN 4.
These rooms are your sanctuary amidst the desert bliss, + they're made for you.
SHARED TUITION (2 PEOPLE):
$2799 PER PERSON
PRIVATE TUITION: $3499
Shared Room
AWAKEN 5
OCCUPANCY: 4
Can you just hear the laughter already?!
AWAKEN 5 draws out your playful, childlike energy with a bunk bed + a pair of freestanding twin beds.
Features a shared bathroom (shower + bathtub), plus access to an outdoor heated shower + two downstairs bathrooms.
SHARED TUITION: $2299 PER PERSON
What's Included + Daily Activities:
+ SACRED PRACTICES WOVEN THROUGHOUT THE WEEKEND:
Expect a blend of yoga, somatic practices, meditation, women's circles, + an EMBODIED AWAKENING workshop to complete your itinerary.
+ LOCAL EXPERIENCES:
Exploring Joshua Tree National Park, stargazing experience, water therapy (optional add on), a trip downtown for lunch (1 meal out)
+ DAILY INCLUSIONS:
Light nourishment, coffee, tea, lunches, + dinners prepared by our private chef (minus 1 meal while downtown), plenty of space to rest, reflect, + integrate between programs, as well as an optional digital detox.
+ WHAT YOU'LL BRING HOME:
Tools to continue to regulate your nervous system, gratitude gifts (surprise!), friendships that will last for a lifetime, + core memories that will bring you back to this sacred land every time you close your eyes.
WHAT PAST RETREAT GUESTS HAVE SAID..
“The retreat was nothing short of life-changing. I honestly can't remember the last time I felt so spiritually fulfilled and filled with so much genuine smiles and laughter.
I had no idea how deeply transformative this week would be. I am eternally grateful for Erica’s genuine care, warmth, and extraordinary attention to detail.
If you are considering joining one of her retreats, do not hesitate. It is an experience you will treasure for a lifetime.”
– Miracle F
“It was a chance to reconnect with myself, grow, laugh, and create memories that I will cherish forever. I came home feeling refreshed, inspired, grateful, and with a renewed sense of peace. Spain was absolutely beautiful, but it was the people, the connections, and the experience they created that made this retreat so incredibly special. I would wholeheartedly recommend a retreat to anyone looking for something meaningful, joyful, and truly good for the soul.”
- Lori S
"We had the perfect balance of free time and excursions and got to tailor our experience to what we needed.
This was my first retreat with Erica, however, it did not feel that way. Her ability to connect deeply and truthfully with each individual, as well as bring the connections together, is a special gift. We felt like one big family from beginning to end!
Retreats are so special,travel is such an expansive experience. Erica knows how to guide you through these big steps and is there for you from the beginning. Whether it’s your 1st retreat or your 10th, know that she’s got your back!”
- Holly F
Frequently Asked Questions
I'd Like to Arrive Early + Settle In. Is That an Option?
Yes! Come unpack, unwind, and enjoy the property in peace before the retreat officially begins on the evening of April 8.
Arrive at Gaia Villa and settle in one day early (April 7) for only $444.
You'll enjoy the peace of the desert, the luxury of the yoga studio, the outdoor shower, fireplace, and all the cozy corners of this home practically to yourself.
Please note that this does not include any meals or retreat programming.
Can I Come Solo, or Do I Need to Register With Someone?
Not at all. Many retreaters come solo, and it's one of the most beautiful parts of the experience. You'll meet incredible women who often become your retreat family, + attending on your own can be a powerful way to reconnect with yourself.
Think of it as solo travel—together.
That said, it's also very common for guests to bring their sister, mom, aunt, girlfriend, neighbor (seriously!), or best friend. Whether you come alone or with someone you love, you'll be welcomed with open arms.
What Is the Best Way to Arrive at the Venue?
Fly into Palm Springs and either use a rideshare service or rent a car to travel to Gaia Villa.
What Should I Pack?
A suggested packing list will be shared upon registration and again as we get closer to the retreat.
Will I Need Experience in Yoga, Meditation, or Other Modalities?
Come as you are—there are no levels to what we'll be doing. You'll be surrounded by expert guides and a supportive community that welcomes you wherever you are on your journey.
If I Have to Cancel, Can My Deposit/Payments Be Refunded or Transferred to Another Retreat?
No. Each $500 deposit, plus the $25 one-time processing fee, is unique to the retreat for which you originally registered and serves as a non-refundable space holder. Because of the time, care, and resources that go into creating these retreats, all payments are nonrefundable.
We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment should unexpected circumstances arise.
If you need to cancel 120 days or more before the retreat, we may be able to apply a portion of your payment toward a future retreat.
Please review the full cancellation policy and waiver under the "Terms & Conditions" section at checkout.
When are payments due?
Reserve your space with a $525 payment, which includes your $500 nonrefundable deposit and $25 processing fee. Half of the remaining balance is due December 1, 2026, with the final balance due February 1, 2027. Smaller payment installments are available at no additional charge, provided the full balance is paid by February 1.
Is this a co-ed retreat?
No, sorry guys, this is for the ladies.
What Is Not Included in the Retreat Fee?
Flights + travel insurance (highly recommended). One meal purchased out on the town, extra food + beverages. Transportation to and from the retreat center + excursion. Optional early-arrival add-on (+1 day): $444
Meet Your Leader
Erica Schumaker
Erica is a yoga teacher, retreat leader, + coach with thousands of hours of teaching and mentoring experience, devoted to guiding others through deep + lasting transformation.
With her psychology degree, a background in dance, + over 20 years of dedicated yoga practice, Erica brings a wealth of knowledge that connects science, somatics, + spirituality. She guides heart-centered individuals to reconnect with their wholeness, reclaim their truth, + step into their fullness + freedom.
Known for her inspirational dharma talks, playful energy, + heartfelt humor, Erica creates experiences that are both expansive + grounding. She helps others cultivate resilience, regulate their nervous systems, strengthen self-trust, + move forward with clarity + confidence.
As the founder of Yoga by Erica, she leads international retreats, teacher training programs, + immersive courses. These offerings provide students with practical tools for healing, personal development, growth, + lasting transformation.
Erica is an E-RYT 500, certified trauma-informed life coach + Level II Reiki practitioner. Having been sober for over six years, she is awakened to her worth, firmly anchored in faith, + passionately devoted to empowering others to embrace their own journeys.
Her mission is to create safe, sacred spaces that bring people together, + guide them to evolve, expand, + reconnect with their authentic selves. Erica is a living testament to the work she teaches, embodying the message that freedom is possible, connection is essential, + life becomes profoundly beautiful when one chooses faith over fear + flow over force.
This work is both her calling + her greatest joy!
Still wondering whether this retreat fits where you are right now? Reach out with questions about rooms, traveling alone, payment options or the experience itself.
Text or email me - I will be in touch:
(586)876-3114
Let's connect on Instagram (I'm @erica_schumaker).
Your room is confirmed after both the deposit and accommodation form are received.