Free to Thrive Retreat
Costa Rica | June 9–14, 2025
Hosted by Kara Swanson, Founder of Stuck to Thriving®
A luxury wellness retreat for women ready to overcome inflammation and experience what it’s like to live pain-free, lose weight effortlessly, feel energized, and confident in their body again.
Are you tired of waking up every day feeling drained, weighed down by constant joint pain, and frustrated by the extra weight?
Do you want a life where you can move freely without pain, have abundant energy, not always be looking for the nearest bathroom, and finally shed those stubborn pounds — then this retreat is for you!
WHAT YOU’LL WALK AWAY WITH…
Clarity on what’s really going on in your body
No more guessing or Googling—understand exactly what’s causing your inflammation and how to fix it.A personalized plan to move forward
You won’t leave wondering “What now?”—you’ll know exactly how to keep healing long after the retreat ends.Tools to stop the cycle of burnout, bloating, and imbalance
You’ll discover the daily rhythms, foods, and habits that actually support your hormones, gut, and energy.Confidence in your body again
You’ll feel the shift—less pain, clearer thinking, better digestion—and trust yourself to stay on track.Habits that are sustainable in real-life
Not a detox. Not a cleanse. But habits that work even when life is full—because they’re made for your real routine.A deep sense of peace and calm
When inflammation drops, your nervous system calms—and for the first time in a long time, you’ll breathe easier.A community of women who get it
You’ll leave with new friendships, fresh perspective, and a support system cheering you on.A renewed version of yourself
Not just lighter in your body—but clearer in your mind, and more connected to the woman you’re becoming.
“I can’t wait to attend this retreat and spend some in person time with Kara...it’s time for ME. I am not thinking of this as just a “get away” but an investment in my health for my family, and for my future dreams and goals. Fresh open air, babbling brooks, incredibly prepared food, quietness, laughter, new friends, reflection - yes...it’s time.”
Imagine 6 days of nourishing your body, giving it exactly what it needs to overcome your inflammation!
Picture this: waking up each morning with the energy to take on your day, pain-free, and knowing that you’re on a sustainable path to a healthier weight—all while enjoying real, everyday foods.
This is waiting for you in Costa Rica.
THIS RETREAT IS FOR YOU IF…
You’re tired of waking up in a body that doesn’t feel like yours.
You’ve dealt with pain, bloat, exhaustion, or stubborn weight for too long—and you’re ready to stop guessing and finally understand what your body needs to heal.
You’ve been caring for everyone else, but your own health keeps getting pushed to the bottom.
Between work, family, and all the to-do lists, it’s felt almost impossible to focus on yourself. This retreat is your chance to press pause and come back to you.You’re craving clarity—not just another protocol.
You’ve tried the diets. You’ve counted the calories. You’ve followed the rules. And still, you feel stuck. You want someone to help you get to the root—and show you how to make it last.You long for space to breathe, think, and rest without distraction.
This is your permission slip to step away from the noise and step into an environment designed to support deep healing—from the food, to the movement, to the jungle itself.You want to be surrounded by women who get it.
You'll find community where you feel seen, supported, and safe to simply be.You’ve been curious about plant-based, but don’t know where to start.
Here, you’ll get to feel the difference in your body after just a few days of eating nourishing, anti-inflammatory meals—without having to plan, prep, or Google a thing.You’re ready for transformation—not just information.
This isn’t another thing to add to your plate. It’s the space to finally put down what’s not working—and step into the freedom, energy, and peace your body has been craving.
“Kara’s program changed my life. Not only did my cholesterol drop, but I gained energy, lost joint pain, and finally found food freedom. Kara’s support and encouragement made me feel seen and celebrated every step of the way. When I heard about the retreat, I knew it was exactly what I needed—to continue this journey surrounded by like-minded women, healing food, and the beautiful jungle of Costa Rica. ”
Envision this…
You wake up without pain. Your body feels light. Your mind feels clear.
No rush. No noise. No one needing anything from you.
Just stillness.
Time to breathe.
Space to heal.
Room to reconnect—with your body, your health, yourself.
Now imagine six days and five nights of that.
In the jungle of Costa Rica.
Surrounded by nature.
Nourished by gourmet anti-inflammatory meals.
Held in a community of women who are healing right alongside you.
Not another wellness trend.
Not a diet in disguise.
But a return to what your body has craved all along—peace, healing, freedom.
This is what the Free to Thrive Retreat offers.
Not an escape.
But a reset.
A realignment.
A place to remember who you are when inflammation no longer runs the show.
I’m Kara, and I’m so glad you’re here
Certified Nutritionist | Inflammation Expert | Founder of Life Well Lived
I’ve been where you are…
Trying all the cleanses, cutting out gluten, counting calories—doing everything “right” and still feeling stuck.
The weight wouldn’t stay off. The pain always came back. And I never felt like myself.
It wasn’t until I finally addressed the root cause—inflammation—that everything changed.
The weight started to fall off.
The years of daily pain disappeared.
My digestive issues healed.
And now, in my late 30s, I have more energy than I ever did in my 20s.
Since then, I’ve helped thousands of women overcome their inflammation and reclaim their health.
They’ve eliminated pain, restored energy, lost weight for good—and most importantly, found freedom in their body again.
Because when you nourish your body, reset your habits, and finally feel supported…
You become the woman you were always meant to be.
And I’d be honored to walk that path with you.
With Love,
Kara
Transformation accelerates when you remove the distractions and give your health the attention it truly deserves.
An immersive, luxury wellness retreat for women tired of feeling exhausted, inflamed, and stuck—ready to heal, reset, and finally feel energized, strong, and in control of their health.
The Free to Thrive Retreat, pulls back the veil and digs into your health and mindset to find the clarity and freedom you’ve been searching for all along.
You’ll learn tangible tools to reshape your mindset and habits and have a deeply supportive and uplifting environment that fuels change.
ACCOMODATIONS
Bali Suites
Bali Suite Accommodations - 2 Twin Beds (Shared Occupancy)
Book with your bestie or be paired with a roommate.
The Bali Suites are the perfect experience for you and a bestie. Experience a prime location next to the shared infinity pool, with beautiful views overlooking the forest, the mountain and the ocean.
Click here for more details.
Geodesic Dome
Geodesic Dome Accommodations - 2 King Beds (Shared Occupancy)
The geodesic domes are very comfortable and spacious accommodations.
Enjoy a beautiful outdoor patio surrounded by jungle and a shower with rainforest views.
Click here for more details.
Jungle Bungalows
Jungle Bungalow Accommodations - 2 Twin Beds (Shared Occupancy)
The Jungle Bungalows are located close to the Heart (common/dining area) and close to the entrance to the waterfall.
Enjoy your own space, privacy, and an outdoor patio with beautiful rainforest views and a large soaking tub.
Click here for more details.
Private Bali Villa One and Two
Private Bali Villa Accommodations - 1 King Bed (VIP: Single Occupancy)
This is a great choice for luxury with a king bed in a stunning villa.Enjoy spaciousness, privacy, a wrap around sundeck, gorgeous ocean views, private plunge pool and beautiful hand carved Balinese architecture.
YOUR DAILY RETREAT EXPERIENCE
Day One: WELCOME +
INTENTION
• Private flight over the beautiful mountains of Costa Rica
• Gather for delicious mocktails, introductions, and lunch
• Set the stage for our intentions for the week
• Delicious 3-course plant-based dinner
Day Two: MINDFULNESS
• Explore the beauty of Imiloa’s 42-acre private jungle property
• Uncover the power of mindfulness and how it relates to inflammation
• Hike the jungle trails, read a book by the pool, experience a massage, and/or rest
Day Three: CLEAR OUT
WHAT’S KEEPING YOU STUCK
• Gain clarity from your past in order to have success in the future
• Begin the day with group reflection
Participate in a Mindful Lunch followed by a private time of reflection
Day Four: UNCOVER HOW TO OVERCOME INFLAMMATION
• Embark on a fun ocean adventure or explore the city together (TBD)
• Learn how to overcome your inflammation Session plus group coaching
Day Five: BUILDING HABITS
THAT STICK
• Private cooking demo with Kara
• Learn how to make delicious meals you and your family love without spending hours in the kitchen
• Implement the principles of habit formation to make anti-inflammatory nutrition a way of life
Day Six: GOODBYES + DEPARTURE
• Experience a delicious breakfast together
• Depart to the SJO airport via private plane to catch flights back home
YOUR EXPERIENCE INCLUDES
Luxury Accommodations
Your stay at Imiloa is more than just accommodations—it’s an experience. Whether you find yourself in a 200-year-old hand-carved home from Bali perched on a cliffside, a Geodesic Dome nestled deep in the jungle, or a cozy Jungalow with an open-air bathtub— every space is designed to inspire, restore, and reconnect you with nature.
Connection and Community
Through shared meals, honest conversations, and uplifting moments, you’ll build deep connections with like-minded women—and leave with lasting friendships and a renewed sense of purpose, joy, and belonging.
Rest and Relax
Step away from the daily grind and into a peaceful sanctuary designed for deep rest. From jungle walks to infinity pool views, every detail invites you to slow down, recharge, and reconnect with yourself.
Delicious Healing Meals
Every meal at the retreat is a healing experience—gourmet, plant-based, and crafted to reduce inflammation and restore energy. Made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, each dish is intentional, comforting, and designed to leave you feeling truly revitalized..
Coaching, Support, and Encouragement From Kara
Kara Swanson, founder of Life Well Lived and creator of the Stuck to Thriving Method, has helped thousands of women overcome inflammation, restore energy, and feel their best. With over 15 years of experience, she blends science and soul to create a transformational space filled with insight, encouragement, and practical tools for lasting change.
YOUR RETREAT EXPERIENCE
Standard: $4,597
- Shared Room
- Expert Coaching on Nutrition, Habits, and Mindset
- Gourmet Anti-Inflammatory Meals
- Intimate Group Training
- A Supportive Community
- Private Transportation from Airport to Retreat
- Private Campus
VIP: $6,597
- Private Room
- 1:1 Coaching Session with Kara
- VIP Gift Bag
- Expert Coaching on Nutrition, Habits, and Mindset
- Gourmet Anti-Inflammatory Meals
- Intimate Group Training
- A Supportive Community
- Private Transportation from Airport to Retreat
- Private Campus
Have questions? Schedule a 15-minute call here.
FAQs
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Life Well Lived does not provide travel insurance. We recommend you have sufficient insurance to cover such things as personal accident, medical treatment, repatriation, cancellation charges, theft, and property loss.
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Yes, please check all travel requirements HERE.
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Located 800 feet (240m) above sea level, Imiloa is a bit cooler than the beach and has fewer bugs. The average temperature is 85°F (27-33°C) during the day and 65-75°F (17-24°C) at night.
• Yoga-pants and shorts, tanks and shirts. We will move together in a breezy, outdoor space covered from the sun.
• Swimsuits and Coverups
• Sunscreen and bug-repellent.
• Sandals, Tennis Shoes, Waterfall Shoes (Teva sandals, or Crocs work great! Otherwise, bring a pair of old tennis shoes)
• Casual comfortable clothing for meals and trips beyond campus
• Reusable water bottle
• Journal/ pen
• Any travel goodies, prescriptions, or specific requirements you may need
• Cool, breezy, casual clothing. A light sweater and pants for evenings.
And if you forget something at home, there are shops nearby.
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Please book your international flight to San Jose International Airport (Airport code; SJO).
All retreat participants and hosts need to be at SJO domestic terminal at 8:45AM on June 9th. The charter flight will depart at 9:15AM. Arrival to Imiloa is approx. at 11:30am. If you arrive to San Jose airport the same day as your retreat begins please arrive by 7:00AM or earlier.
About the Charter Arrival Flight
We privately charter flights from SJO to our landing strip near Imiloa to cut the travel time from 4 hours in the car, to 20 minutes by plane. It’s a wonderful way to arrive.
Please note:
If you cannot arrive at the international terminal by the suggested times above, please book your travel to arrive in the day(s) BEFORE the start of the retreat.
If you arrive to the domestic terminal at SJO after the suggested times, you will not arrive in time to travel on the charter flight. We can still assist with your transport, but you will be responsible for your own transportation to Imiloa as well as any cost incurred.
If you choose not to utilize the method of transportation provided for your retreat to/from Imiloa you are responsible for the cost of alternate/ground transportation.
Departing Imiloa:
You will depart Imiloa at 9AM, and arrive at the landing strip at 9:45AM, with an estimated arrival to SJO airport at 10:30AM.
The domestic terminal is a 5-10 minute walk to the international terminal at SJO.
Typically, it is suggested to be at the international terminal 2.5 hours prior to your international departure. Please book your departing international flight accordingly, knowing that you will be at the airport at 10:30AM on departure day.
If you book your flight earlier than this, you will be responsible for your own transportation to SJO airport (airport taxis are $285 one way, and taxis from Imiloa to Quepos landing strip are $115 one way).
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We understand you may need to keep in touch with those at home. We have fiber optic WIFI throughout the resort available for all guests.
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No, you will not need an adapter if you are traveling from North America, as electrical outlets are North American.
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Yes, please let us know your restrictions to communicate to the Imiloa Kitchen staff.
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Imiloa is an alcohol free property. We have a beautifully curated spirit free drink menu to enjoy.
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The Imiloa Institute is located in the Savegre mountains, a 20 minute drive from the small surf town Dominical and 30km from Quepos (medical facilities, airport, great dining if you’re coming before or after the event).
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The currency in Costa Rica is the Colon, which you can withdraw from an ATM at SJO or exchange at your departure airport. You would only need this cash for excursions outside the resort or to tip employees (optional) should you choose to leave them. There is also an option to tip via Paypal directly to Imiloa Institute.
Imiloa is a credit/debit card ONLY campus. We are 100% cashless except for optional tips.
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Airfare to/from Costa Rica
Travel insurance (recommended)
This is exclusive to women only
Please note this is an ALCOHOL-FREE Retreat Center.
Have questions? Schedule a 15-minute call here.
