Retreat Story: Palm Springs

It started during a rare quiet moment when I asked myself: Who am I outside of work? What do I do just for me – purely for joy or presence?

Around that time, I saw a post from Commune Yoga about a five-day retreat in Palm Springs. The description caught my attention immediately: hiking, long-format yoga, a personal chef, and a property with everything – hot tub, cold plunge, sauna, tennis, basketball.

I hesitated. I didn’t know anyone going. But I said yes – and it ended up being one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had in years.

The Group
What struck me most was the people. A mix of men and women, single and married, many from business and tech backgrounds – companies like Apple, Microsoft, and beyond. But titles and roles didn’t matter. There was no competition, no proving ground. Just thoughtful conversations and genuine presence.

The Food
Meals by @saltandleisure were intentional, simple, and beautiful. Breakfast and dinner were curated for us, and each felt like something to savor – not just eat. Nothing overdone, just nourishing food done right.

The Experience
Every day was a mix of yoga sessions, hiking, and time to restore.

• A sunrise hike that was easily one of the best I’ve done.
• Hours of yoga that challenged and centered me.
• Leisure time for the sauna, cold plunge, hot tub, or slow mornings with coffee.
• Tennis and basketball for those craving a little play.

The retreat balanced activity with ease – participate in everything or nothing at all. There was no pressure, only space.

The Takeaway
The biggest lesson? Sometimes, you don’t need to wait for the perfect time or the perfect group. You just need to book the trip.

This retreat reminded me that when you step into the right environment – with supportive people, intentional practices, and space to slow down – clarity and connection follow.

I left Palm Springs with a sense of renewal: emotionally, mentally, and creatively. Most of all, I carried home a quiet confidence in saying yes to experiences that expand you.

👉 Learn more or sign up at https://lumoraretreats.com

Erica Kiely @ericakiely.yoga and Patrick Beach @patrickbeach are hosting other incredible experiences through Commune Yoga @communeyoga. Their next retreat is in November 2025! Visit communeyoga.com/retreat for more information!