SECRETS OF
MINDVALLEY’S
GLOBAL EVENTS
with > Laura Viilep
2025 Summer
Issue 002
Dear Reader,
ransformation
isn’t always
loud.
Sometimes, it
arrives quietly—between
the inhale and the exhale.
Other times, it roars in
like a storm, flips the
table, and demands we
become someone new.
At RetreatBoss Magazine, we live for that
moment. That messy, magical, deeply
human space where change takes root.
This issue is a celebration of transformation—
not just as a theme, but as a way of being.
The kind that reshapes you from the
inside out. The kind sparked on yoga mats
and mountaintops, in cacao ceremonies
and soul-shaking workshops. It happens
at retreats, sure—but it also happens in
kitchens, inboxes, between book pages,
boardrooms, and beneath starry skies when
you finally let yourself cry.
We’re shining a light on the leaders and
quiet rebels crafting these spaces—like
Laura Viilep of Mindvalley, who turns
spreadsheets into symphonies of change.
And the everyday humans who say yes to
the unknown, to growth, to becoming.
You’ll find stories of self-guided sacred
retreats, behind-the-scenes magic, tools
for crafting unforgettable experiences, and
wisdom from those who walk the walk—not
just talk the talk.
Because transformation matters.
In a world spinning ever faster, choosing to
pause, reflect, and evolve is an act of radical
courage. Whether you’re planning an event,
facilitating breakthroughs, or just trying to
remember who you are underneath the
noise—you’re part of this.
So let this issue be your permission slip,
your spark, your soul nudge. To rise. To
remember. To rewrite the story if you need
to.
Because the real alchemy? It starts with you.
With wild love and wanderlust,
Crystal Adair-Benning
RetreatBoss Magazine curated team of experts >>>
the
Team
Fritz Colinet
Creative Director
Annette Farha | Amber Swenor | Amy CIvica | Amy Lau |
Anastasiya Shkurko | Cassandra Shuck | Charlotte Benz |
Catherine Kontos | Charlotte Tweed | Christie Bemis | Crystal
Adair-Benning | Denise Ropp | Hannah McKitrick | Jon Christian
Jervert | Kara James | Kristin Sullivan | Kukuwa Kyereboah &
Coach Cass | Laura Viilep | Melanie Midegs | Robin Finney |
Sandra Dreisbach | Talie Davis Weir | Tracy J. Stoneaker |
DISCLAIMER: The content in RetreatBoss Magazine is for informational purposes only. The
views expressed by contributing authors, interviewees, and advertisers are their own and do
not necessarily reflect those of RetreatBoss. We do not endorse or guarantee the accuracy
of any advice, opinions, or services mentioned. Readers should conduct their own research
before making decisions based on the content within this publication.
R Magazine is more than a publication, it’s a gateway to
transformation, cultural immersion, and holistic well-being.
Designed for retreat seekers and those drawn to travel,
self-discovery, and personal growth, R Magazine brings the
retreat experience to life through inspiring stories, expert
insights, and curated recommendations that explore the
world’s most transformative retreats, wellness practices, and
cultural experiences. It also serves as a trusted resource
for retreat leaders, facilitators, and wellness entrepreneurs,
offering industry trends, strategies, and success stories to
support those shaping the future of retreats. More than
a magazine, R is a movement—bridging the gap between
seekers and creators, fostering a global community where
well-being, exploration, and purpose thrive.
Contributing Writers
Our Mission
Founder
Crystal Adair-Benning
Editor In Chief
Retna Media
Layout Design
Contents
Table of
50
The Powerhouse Behind
Transformational
Experiences
F E AT UR E
10
Authenticity
in Uncertain
Times
34
Butterflies: A
Story of Healing
Transformation
26
The Power
of Ritual
14
Bring the
Retreat to
Breakfast
33
Beginning of
the Path
20
The Evolution
of Financial
Transformation
30
Sunshine in a
in a Smoothie
bowl
66
Your Potential
Through
Adventure
72
The Beautiful
Mess of
Becoming
46
From Couch to
Cocoon
38
NeuroHealing
When Thought
Rewires Reality
62
Wearables for
Anchored Soul
Shifts
44
An Act of Quiet
Revolution
58
The Table of
Stories
82
Wellness
Doesn’t Take
Vactions
76
The Women
Behind Balinese
Doors
80
Breathwork for
Your Backend
86
The Energy of
Packing
light
10
in Uncertain Times
Authenticity
Let’s clear up another misconception:
authenticity isn’t about “saying whatever you
want” with no care for how it lands or impacts
others.
The definition of authenticity is when your
words and actions are congruent with your
beliefs and values.
But here’s the kicker: how do you actually
know what you believe?
Most of our foundational beliefs are formed by
the time we’re seven years old. They come from
caregivers, culture and early experiences. Most
of us never pause to re-evaluate the beliefs
that we build our entire lives upon. Yet if those
beliefs don’t support who you feel you’re truly
meant to be, how can you expect to feel aligned
while living by them?
Organizational psychologist Dr. Tasha Eurich
found that while 95% of people think they’re
self-aware, only 10–15% actually are. That gap
between how we think we show up and how
we actually show up? That’s where anxiety,
stress and self-doubt often live. And in that
hat’s more than a startling realization,
it’s a soul-level wake-up call.
In times like these that for many feel
very socially, economically, emotionally
uncertain, one of the most powerful choices
you can make is to come back to you.
It’s important to understand that this isn’t
just about mindset or personal development.
It’s about resilience in the face of external
challenges, and what you have control over.
In times when everything feels uncertain, the
power of aligning with who you are becomes
the antidote. Your authenticity can become
your internal safety net; a stabilizing force when
the world feels anything but stable.
More Than a Buzzword
You might feel that authenticity is an overused
word. It has been among the top searched
words of the year online the last few years. But
just because it’s used a lot, does not make it a
hollow subject.
Studies show that an average of 50% of adults report they
aren’t living in alignment with their true selves.
11
gap, uncertainty festers.
Belief transformation is the process of consciously re-
evaluating and reshaping what you believe to be true
and this becomes the key that unlocks the door to your
true authenticity.
Retreats Fast-Track the Real You
Retreats are powerful containers for transformation.
Removed from daily distractions, they create space to
reflect, reconnect and reorient to what matters most.
With fewer distractions, it becomes easier to notice
what’s true, what’s outdated and what’s ready to shift.
In a supportive space with guidance and intention, you
can begin to release stories you’ve been living by or roles
you may be performing and reconnect with the person
you actually want to be.
In an increasingly uncertain world that prioritizes staying
busy over staying aligned, this work isn’t a luxury, it
becomes a necessity.
Belief Transformation Is the Bridge
The one thing you truly have autonomy over is how you
choose to live, lead and respond. Authenticity isn’t just
a value - it’s a way of being. But to live authentically,
you have to get honest about what beliefs are shaping
your behavior.
Often, we are living from beliefs we never consciously
chose: beliefs about worth, identity, safety, success, failure.
If you’re operating from an outdated internal narrative,
your external world will reflect that misalignment.
Here’s the thing: we don’t get the life we want just
because we want it. We get the life that matches the
identity we hold for ourselves and the actions we take
based on that identity.
Belief transformation is the process of challenging
inherited assumptions so you can consciously create
a belief system aligned with the life you want to lead.
Ask yourself:
• Who were you 10 years ago?
• How would you describe that person and how would
others have described them?
• When you reflect on who you are today: what’s
different now?
• What beliefs helped you grow into who you are
today?
• What beliefs are ready to be released that are no
longer a match for the life you desire?
Chances are, your growth came from a mix of experiences:
therapy, coaching, loss, retreats, friendships, exposure
to different worldviews. Transformation isn’t linear, but
it is traceable. When you connect the dots, you begin
to reclaim your power to choose new beliefs and with
that, new outcomes.
And aligning with your true self is one of the most radical,
powerful things you can do.
So when you realize that something’s off, when you know
you want to feel differently or show up differently, the
first step is simple: Get curious. Start noticing. Then shift.
12
3 Steps to Aligning with Your
Authenticity
1. The Alignment Inventory
Ask yourself:
• Where in my life do I feel ease, flow, confidence?
(That’s likely where you’re in alignment.)
• Where do I feel tension, resentment, or confusion?
(That’s where you’re likely out of alignment.)
Use this as a diagnostic. Look at relationships, habits,
decisions — and notice where old beliefs might be
running the show.
2. Revisit Your Values
Values are the compass you use to make decisions —
they guide how you want to live and lead.
Some people say values never change. I believe they can
shift in priority over time.
Try this prompt:
“I feel most alive and fulfilled when I am __________,
__________, and __________.”
Then ask:
Are your choices and commitments aligned with those
values?
If not, what belief is blocking that alignment?
3. Use The Think–Feel–Do Model
This framework helps people identify where they’re stuck
and how to shift it.
Here’s how to use it:
Step 1: Choose a problem or challenge you are facing,
or a behavior pattern you want to change.
Step 2: Make three columns labeled: THINK | FEEL | DO
Step 3: Reflect, without judgment:
What am I thinking about this situation? Write down all
the thoughts going through your head.
Next, when you reflect on this challenge, how do you
feel? What feelings come up?
Finally under Do: what actions have you done, or not
done, to resolve this? What are you avoiding?
Then dig deeper:
• Is that thought really true?
• What belief is underneath it?
• If you can anchor a feeling or emotion to this challenge,
explore, where did that feeling come from? When do
you first remember feeling that feeling?
• Who gave me that belief?
• Do I choose to keep it?
The Think - Feel - Do model is a tool to create greater
overall awareness so that you can identify if your
thoughts, behaviors and actions are in alignment with
your authentic identity that you desire to continue
stepping into, or, are they out of alignment?
This model helps you spot the belief behind the behavior
and that’s where change becomes possible.
When you shift the belief, you shift how you feel.
When you shift how you feel, you change what you do.
And when you change what you do — your results follow.
Your Next Move (or: Where do we Go from Here)
Uncertainty isn’t going anywhere.
But the choice to live in alignment with what is true for
you, is always available to you.
In a world that pulls you from yourself, your authenticity
can become your antidote.
Choose clarity by challenging the beliefs that no longer
fit. Choose freedom by living from your truth, not the
story you were handed.
Because the more you trust your inner truth, the less
you need permission from anyone else.
And that’s the most radical antidote of all.
VIEW THEIR FULL PROFILE ON RETREATMATCH.COM -----------
Amber Swenor is a transformational
leadership coach, speaker, front person
of her band Morningstar and author of
Unleashed: A Been-There Rocked-That
Guide to Radical Authenticity in Life and
Business. She helps leaders and teams align their
beliefs, actions and identity to create success from the
inside out. Her signature Think–Feel–Do model supports
individuals in identifying the root of misalignment and
making empowered shifts that lead to lasting change.
Through keynotes, retreats and coaching, Amber guides
people to live and lead authentically, especially through
uncertain times.
13
14
Breakfast
Bring the
Retreat to
here’s something undeniably special about breakfast
at a retreat. It’s not just the food, it’s the feeling.
Mornings unfold slowly, often wrapped in soft light
filtering through linen curtains or warmed by the
gentle crackle of a fireplace. Time stretches out,
unhurried, generous. These unhurried mornings
aren’t just nourishing - they’re revitalizing, creating space for deeper
reflection and more intentional connection. A steaming mug is
cradled between two hands, not rushed on the way out the door.
Plates arrive with thoughtful care - each ingredient balanced, each
bite meaningful. No inbox to check, no traffic to beat. The simple,
quiet rhythm of nature, the comforting clink of cutlery, and the
luxurious feeling of being fully present.
At a retreat, breakfast is more of a ritual. It’s where nourishment
meets intention, where a simple poached egg or spoonful of granola
becomes a gesture of care. The table is a place to pause and reflect,
whether you’re seated in solitude overlooking a misty valley or
chatting softly with fellow travelers across a long, wooden bench.
Even the air feels different. It’s clean, crisp, scented with pine, sea
salt, or maybe even jasmine.
But here’s the magic: you don’t have to travel far to experience this.
That same joy can be recreated right at home. It doesn’t require
fancy ingredients or professional plating; only a few intentional
choices and simple recipes that awaken your senses and bring a
little indulgence into your morning.
Let’s bring the retreat feel right back to your kitchen one peaceful,
invigorating and delicious moment at a time.
15
KITCHEN FAIRY TIP:
Use thick sourdough or whole grain bread, toasted to golden perfection, and finish with flaky sea salt.
SIMPLE RECIPE
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 slice of sourdough
• 1 poached egg
• 6 cherry tomatoes, halved
• A good pinch of your favorite microgreens
INSTRUCTIONS
Mash avocado with lemon, salt, and pepper.
Spread on toasted bread. Top with tomatoes
and a poached egg. Add a drizzle of your favorite
balsamic. The chili crunch adds an amazing little
spark that keeps your brain and your tastebuds
awake and excited.
WHY IT FEELS INDULGENT?
A perfect balance of creamy, savory, and runny richness. It’s rustic and
refined all at once.
1. Avocado Toast with Poached Egg & Chili Crunch
16
KITCHEN FAIRY TIP
Layer in clear glasses or jars for a beautiful presentation..
SIMPLE RECIPE
• Greek yogurt
• Honey
• Homemade or store-bought granola
• Seasonal fruit (berries, mango, or figs)
• Mint or basil leaves
INSTRUCTIONS
Layer yogurt, a drizzle of honey, granola, and
fruit. Top with fresh herbs for an exquisite
unexpected twist.
WHY IT FEELS INDULGENT?
It’s elegant, effortless, and endlessly customizable. The herbs add a
surprisingly fresh note that wakes up your palate.
2. Yogurt Parfait with Honeyed Granola & Fresh Herbs
17
KITCHEN FAIRY TIP:
Stir eggs gently over low heat for a custard-like texture..
SIMPLE RECIPE
• 3 eggs
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp chopped chives or parsley
• 2 tbsp goat cheese
• 1 tbsp toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds
INSTRUCTIONS
Beat eggs with herbs. Melt butter in a pan, cook
eggs low and slow. When just set, stir in goat
cheese and seeds.
THE SECRET INGREDIENT: INTENTION
A retreat breakfast isn’t just about what’s on the plate—
it’s about how it’s served. Pour your juice into a glass you
love. Play soft music—something acoustic, instrumental,
or nature-inspired. Light a candle or open a window to
let in the morning breeze. Set the table, even if it’s just
for you.
The real indulgence is presence. When you slow down
and treat yourself with gentleness, even the simplest
meals become sacred. So go ahead—wrap yourself in a
cozy robe, brew that extra cup of coffee, and savor each
bite like you’re miles away from your routine.
Because with the right ingredients, a little intention, and
a healthy sprinkle of kitchen magic, all your mornings
can feel like a retreat.
VIEW THEIR FULL PROFILE ON RETREATMATCH.COM ---------
Amy Civica, affectionately known as the
Kitchen Fairy, brings a magical touch to
every retreat she graces. With her vibrant
energy and a flair for creating culinary
experiences, she transforms meals into
moments of pure joy. Her enchanting presence in the
kitchen sprinkles a dash of sparkle and warmth, leaving
guests feeling pampered and personally cared for, as if
each dish was crafted just for them.
WHY IT FEELS INDULGENT?
Soft, creamy eggs with tangy cheese and nutty crunch—it’s a cozy yet sophisticated dish.
3. Herbed Scrambled Eggs with Goat Cheese & Toasted Seeds
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19
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20
21
R Magazine
The
of Financial Transformation
E V O L U T I O N
n China, my father had been a respected
neurosurgeon. But when political winds
shifted, we fled to Hong Kong, then
spent three uncertain years awaiting
immigration papers. When we finally arrived
in the U.S., my father’s credentials meant
nothing. My mother, once an economist, now
scrubbed hospital floors.
At night, they whispered about “the old country,”
reminding us of everything they sacrificed “for
your future.” It was meant as love. But to a child,
it felt like a debt I could never repay.
What I didn’t know then was that those shiny
shoes were taking their first steps toward a
future where my relationship with money would
transform from anxiety and scarcity into clarity,
confidence, and peace.
When Children Become Financial Translators
At twelve, I found myself at a car dealership,
explaining financing terms to my parents while
the salesman grew increasingly impatient.
At fifteen, I was asked to help choose which
suburb we should live in—Bellevue or Renton—
without any understanding of property values
or schools.
These weren’t just awkward moments. They
were early invitations into the world of financial
survival. My role wasn’t child it was interpreter,
advisor, buffer.
I remember overhearing my parents argue
late one night, the stress in my mother’s voice
cracking as she worried about making rent.
Clutching my unicorn plushie, I made a silent
vow:
I will never feel this helpless about money.
What I didn’t know was that this was the
beginning of my financial awakening.
The Four Phases of Financial Transformation
Think of transformation like Maslow’s hierarchy
except money sits under every single level.
At eight years old, I stood in a Seattle classroom, patent
leather shoes painfully announcing my foreignness
among a sea of jeans.