April 26 - May 1st, 2026

A group of ten women on a beach, some standing and some kneeling, making a heart shape with their hands, with lush greenery and the ocean in the background, during sunset.

If you're grieving, and you need a place where you can feel it fully—this is for you.

Six days on Maui with a small group. Eight people at most. People who know what it means to carry loss. You'll have time to move through what's present in your body, to sit in circle and be witnessed, to rest when you need rest and cry when you need to cry. You'll also laugh. Eat together. Walk to the beach. Let the ocean do some of the holding.

Grief asks so much of us, and it can be so lonely. This is a space where you don't have to hold it all alone. Where you can show up raw or tender or numb, and it's okay. Where the work is gentle and deep at the same time.

Wendy leads this retreat, and she understands grief from the inside. The practices are somatic—grounded in the body, in breath, in presence. The days are structured enough to hold you, and open enough to let you be.

Join Us

Join us for a Free Preview Call on February 5th

Register for the Call

Simplified graphic of a blue hibiscus flower with five petals and a white pistil

The Heart of our Retreat

Grief asks to be felt. It won't be rushed or managed or neatly contained. It rises when it's ready, moves through you if you let it, and leaves something behind when it goes—wisdom, expansion, a heart that's been cracked open and can hold more than it could before.

This retreat is a place where you can let yourself fall apart. Where you don't have to hold it together or pretend you're fine. Where the messy, raw parts of grief are welcome.

We practice feeling grief in the body—not just talking about it, but tracking where it lives, noticing the sensations, letting it move. The yoga, the meditation, the time in circle—it's all designed to help you be present with what's here, even when it's unbearable. Especially then.

Grief changes us. There's no going back to who we were before. But when we're willing to sit in the fire of that change, to grieve the parts of ourselves that have died along with our loss, something new can emerge. Not in spite of the grief, but because of it.

This is the work of transformation. It's messy and vulnerable and takes courage. But you don't have to do it alone. The group holds you. The ocean holds you. Maui holds you.

A woman practicing yoga outdoors near a body of water, standing in a meditative pose with her hands in a prayer position over her chest.

Support & Healing for your Grieving Heart

The daily practice

Dive deep into the power of somatic grieving practices. Our sessions include daily yoga, meditation, journaling, group sharing, and connection, all designed to deepen self-awareness and cultivate a loving, accepting relationship with yourself. We’ll explore themes such as Creating a Safe Container, Presence & Body Awareness, Self Love and Acceptance, Grief as a Teacher, Evolution of Identity Through Loss, and The Process of Change.

Bodywork & Relaxation

Most mornings begin with meditation on the beach. There's something about starting the day by the water—it softens us, opens us.

You'll also receive a one-hour bodywork session during the retreat. The hands-on work helps release what your body has been holding, sometimes for years. It supports the somatic practice we're doing together, helps you integrate what's moving through you.

People often say this session shifts something for them. They feel more settled in their bodies, more able to stay present with their grief without being overwhelmed.

Fostering Connections

This unique retreat offers a platform for forming meaningful relationships in a safe, authentic environment. In our circle, be witnessed, receive reflection, and create deep connections, fostering a learning community that sparks new insights and friendships.

Nature-Infused Experiences

The beach is just steps away. There's time to walk, rest, watch the light change, be alone when you need to be. Maui does some of the work for us, the rhythm of the waves, the warmth in the air, the way time moves differently here.

Ram Dass's Hanuman Temple

Our retreat includes a visit to Ram Dass’s Hanuman Temple. We’ll unite in meditation, chanting, and heartfelt connection, enveloped in the palpable aura of love that imbues this hallowed ground. The temple, a source of inspiration and profound healing, offers an ideal setting to open our hearts, setting the tone for a journey of transformation and deep connection.

Please note: While we plan for this visit, circumstances beyond our control could require a change.

Join Us

Somatic Grieving & Healing in Community

Dive into practices to deepen your understanding of where your grief lives in your body while connecting with like-minded individuals, creating opportunities for both personal growth and healing.

A group of people practicing yoga in a calm indoor studio with wooden floors, yoga mats, blocks, and bottled water, some with hands extended forward and heads down, in a resting pose.

A backyard with a swimming pool, outdoor lounge chairs, a table with drinks and a fruit platter, green plants, tall palm trees, and a house with a balcony under a blue sky with clouds.

A neatly made bed with a beige tufted headboard, two pillows with starfish designs, and two matching lamps on bedside tables in a bright room with blinds and an air conditioning unit.

Tropical landscape with lush green trees and plants, tall palm trees near the coast, a small house, an ocean with boats, and mountains in the background under a blue sky with clouds.

Living room with white walls, a beige sofa, a wooden coffee table, a dining table with wicker chairs, a decorative plant, and large windows and glass doors letting in natural light.

Empty yoga or exercise studio with wooden floor, mirrored wall, shelving with yoga mats and Bolsters, and a Buddha statue on a small pedestal.

A bright, minimalist bedroom with a white bed, decorative pillows, a wooden dresser, a table lamp, large windows with white blinds, and a door with a glass panel, all with neutral tones.

Balcony view of a tropical backyard with a swimming pool, surrounded by lush green trees and palm trees, under a blue sky with clouds.

Empty yoga studio with three green mats, four rolled cushions, Buddha artwork, and a Buddha statue on a pedestal.

A bedroom with a white bed, beige pillows, a nightstand with a lamp, and a large painting of Buddha's face on the wall.

Tropical beach with palm trees, a rocky shoreline, and a sunset sky with clouds and vibrant colors.

Two beds with upholstered headboards, decorated with fish-themed pillows, a wooden nightstand with a table lamp, a window showing greenery outside, and framed fish artwork on the wall.

Sunset over a tropical beach with pink and orange clouds, palm trees, and calm waves reflecting the sky.

Bedroom with wooden furniture, a bed with white linens, a wooden dresser, a small black and white chevron-patterned ottoman, a painting on the wall, a beige armchair with a green pillow, and table lamps.

Your Retreat Experience

Luxurious Accommodations

Five nights at the Wailea Inn in South Kihei. This is a private gated estate with multiple suites, tucked into a quiet setting just 50 yards from the beach. You'll wake up to the sounds of the island: birds, palms rustling, ocean waves.

Exclusive Estate Amenities

The property has a heated pool, an indoor yoga studio, outdoor spaces surrounded by tropical landscaping. It's the kind of place that feels both private and spacious, where you have room to be alone or gather with the group.

Nourishing Local Meals

Two to three meals a day, lovingly prepared with local, seasonal ingredients. Each meal is a celebration of Maui's rich culinary heritage, crafted to nourish both body and soul.

Daily Therapeutic Yoga

Therapeutic sessions designed for our small group. The practice helps you come back to your breath, your body, the parts of yourself that grief has pulled you away from.

Personalized Bodywork

Your retreat includes a 1-hour bodywork session. A blissful experience that promises relaxation and rejuvenation, leaving you refreshed and realigned.

Mindful Mornings

Start your day with optional early-morning meditation sessions offered before breakfast, setting a tone of peace and introspection for the day ahead.

Time for You

Afternoons and evenings are open. Read by the pool. Walk the 50 yards to the beach. Sit with what's moving through you. Connect with the group or take time alone. However you need to be.

This retreat gives you the space to feel what you're feeling, to rest when you need rest, and to be held as you do this tender, necessary work.

Island Activities

If you want to explore Maui, we'll help you book snorkeling, surfing, paddleboarding, or whatever calls to you. The concierge support is complimentary. We want to make it easy for you to say yes to what feels good.

We just ask that you schedule these activities outside of our community gathering times, so you don't miss what happens in the circle.

Group of women with tattoos and swimwear practicing yoga on a beach with sand, rocks, and ocean blue water under a partly cloudy sky.

A woman practicing yoga outdoors on a lush green lawn surrounded by tall palm trees, with a partly cloudy sky overhead.

A sea turtle resting on the sandy beach during sunset, with the ocean and clouds in the background.

Five women practicing yoga on a sandy beach near large rocks, with palm trees, ocean, and mountains in the background, under a blue sky with some clouds.

A group of women and girls in colorful clothing hugging on a sandy beach at sunset, with ocean waves and surfers in the background.

Two musicians perform outdoors surrounded by lush greenery and tropical plants, with one playing drums and the other singing into a microphone, during an event or gathering.

A small, round, white chapel with a curved roof, surrounded by lush greenery, potted plants, and trees. A rainbow is visible in the sky, and colorful flags are strung across the scene.

A man and woman standing on a sandy beach during sunset, smiling, with ocean waves, rocks, and mountains in the background.

Woman practicing yoga on a sandy beach during sunset, performing a side plank with one leg raised, near rocks by the ocean with a view of the horizon and a visible moon.

Three women standing outdoors in a garden with lush green plants and palm trees, smiling at the camera.

Two women embrace on a beach at sunset, looking into each other's eyes, with the ocean and colorful sky in the background.

A tropical beach with black rocks and sandy shore in the foreground, blue ocean water, palm trees along the coast, a mountain in the distance, and a partly cloudy sky.

A woman in a swimsuit practicing yoga on the sandy beach near the ocean, with palm trees and a blue sky with scattered clouds in the background.

A kitchen countertop decorated with a small Buddha statue adorned with a purple and white flower lei, a large wooden salad bowl filled with mixed greens, a plate of tropical fruits including pineapple, and a vase with pink protea flowers, among other

Woman practicing yoga in tree pose on a sandy beach with rocks and ocean in the background, under a cloudy sky.

A person with long black hair, wearing a white shirt with rainbow sleeve stripes and a beige hat, stands on a sandy beach facing the ocean during a colorful sunset, with clouds and mountains in the background.

A woman with braids wearing a colorful apron stands in a kitchen, preparing food on a granite countertop with various bowls, a pitcher, bread, and pink flowers nearby.

Woman in bikini holding a surfboard on a concrete patio in a backyard with tropical plants and palm trees.

A woman stands in ankle-deep water on the beach, watching the sunset over the ocean with clouds in the sky. There is also a person in the water to the right, possibly surfing or swimming.

Four women smiling on the beach at sunset with ocean waves, rocky shoreline, and mountains in the background.

A table decorated with tropical leaves, flowers, and an assortment of foods including eggs, sliced fruits, salads, and condiments, with a Buddha statue and a purple flower garland in the background.

Assorted tropical fruits on display, including sliced starfruit, papaya, banana, lychee, and a plate of small oranges or tangerines with green stems, arranged on a wooden board and a ceramic plate.

A lush green lawn with tall palm trees, a house with a balcony, pink flowering bushes, and mountains in the background under a bright blue sky.

A woman practicing yoga outdoors on a green lawn with tall palm trees and cloudy sky in the background.

Group of people standing on a sandy beach at sunset with tall palm trees in the background, dressed in casual and summer clothing.

TESTIMONIALS FROM RETREAT PARTICIPANTS

"Perhaps I was naive to think after going through a few programs my transformations would lessen. "

Was I ever mistaken. This work, the powerful facilitation and content cracked me open in the most necessary, beautiful way. Allowing me to finally see the joy and possibility after so much strife and despair. I pray I can continue to participate in these retreats as this is one of the most radical acts of service/care I can provide to myself. I am so very grateful.

— ASHLEY
"This retreat exceeded my expectations on every level."

As someone who has completed the 9-month program and the yoga therapy program, I thought I knew what to be prepared for. As I sat in the seat of participant, I felt how deeply needed a community with a common thread of grief, held by a loving, nurturing, passionate teacher was. The love and thoughtful care taken in every step of the retreat was awe-inspiring. The food by an incredible woman , the massage by a thoughtful intuitive man, the warm, nurturing support from the retreat assistants, all added to the beautiful experience.
— Ashley
"Thank you, Wendy!"

Since I've been home from the retreat, I've been constantly thinking of how I can integrate more of this kind of grief work into my own life (both personally & professionally)...other than just moving to Boulder and becoming more involved with CSG. You are truly an amazing person and I'm so happy I met you. The work you do has inspired me.
"This work is the deepest of all of the work."

If you feel as though anything in your life is requiring change, whether it feels HUGE or small, or in between, this is the space to allow the change to begin.

— Angie
"Gillian's incredible food nourished me in ways I didn't even know I needed."

Every meal was intentional and filled with love. She shared every ingredient with us before each meal, so we could even more fully enjoy the experience. I've recreated a few of her dishes since being home, and though they aren't as magical as when made by Gillian, I'm so happy to be able to fuel my body at home with healthy and delicious options.
"WOW. Zach's bodywork was hands-down the best bodywork I have ever experienced."

I'm still, almost 2 weeks later feeling the realignment he created for me. Zach is so professional and had me feeling safe and cared for from start to finish. It was clear he understood the powerful work we were doing throughout the day and he helped deepen the experience and learning through his work. This is not just a "lovely treat" added to the retreat — it is essential. I felt completely renewed and realigned after my session with Zach.
"Throughout the entire retreat and every day since, I've thought, 'Everyone, and I mean EVERYONE, needs this retreat.' Don't hesitate."

I would (and will) go to this retreat again and again — gaining something completely new each time. It's a beautiful gift to give yourself, no matter where you are on your journey, no matter what it is you are grieving.
— CHELSEA

Spaces for this transformative retreat are limited.

We are limiting this experience to 8 participants. This is your moment to step into a space where radical self-care, inspiration, and personal growth intersect beautifully. Secure your spot now and be part of this extraordinary journey.

Personal Growth & Healing: Somatic Grieving sessions to support your personal growth and evolution
Community Networking: Opportunities for collaborative growth and personal development
Luxury Accommodation: 5 nights in a shared luxury suite at Wailea Inn
Fresh, Nutritious Meals: 2-3 daily meals prepared with local, seasonal ingredients
Curriculum Sessions: Access to all Mindful Grieving curriculum immersion sessions
Yoga and Meditation: Daily therapeutic yoga and optional early-morning meditation
Nature Experiences: Access to our complimentary concierge to book guided snorkeling, surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, and tours through the magical Bamboo Forest.
Cultural Activities: An opportunity to experience Ram Dass’s Hanuman Temple
Bodywork Session: One 1-hour personalized bodywork or massage session
Exclusive Amenities: Access to the estate's heated pool and yoga spaces

Single Room

Monthly Payment Plan
$760 x 6 Months

Save with Pay in Full
$4,499

Double Room

Monthly Payment Plan
$650 x 6 Months

Save with Pay in Full
$3,750

BOOK YOUR SPOT

Frequently Asked Questions.

Our retreat days blend structured activities and free time. Expect mornings filled with a nourishing breakfast, and curriculum immersion sessions. Afternoons offer opportunities for nature-infused experiences, with evenings reserved for delicious dinners, reflection, and connection.
Each session is an interactive exploration of the Mindful Grieving process. They include a daily theme and teaching, guided meditation, journaling, group sharing circles, somatic yoga practice and personal reflection time, all designed to deepen your understanding of yourself and move through your grief in a loving community.
While transportation to and from the retreat center isn’t included, we provide detailed guidance on the best ways to reach us. The retreat center is a 25 minute uber ride from the airport and typically costs $35. We can also assist in coordinating shared transportation options if needed.
Yes, each day includes yoga sessions designed to complement our curriculum and enhance your overall retreat experience.
Luxurious shared accommodations are provided. We cater with local, nourishing meals to support your retreat experience.
We recommend keeping your schedule flexible. While there’s ample free time, the retreat’s immersive nature might influence your desire for additional activities. To create a strong container, please do not miss scheduled group sessions.

If you’d like to do day-long adventures, please schedule additional days and accommodations before or after the retreat.
For any additional questions or inquiries, please contact us directly through our website. We're here to assist and guide you.

Wendy Black Stern

Wendy is the heart and soul behind the Center for Somatic Grieving, where her mission is to support individuals through the transformative process of grief. Her journey into this profound work began with a personal tragedy—the loss of her son Noah—which led her to a path of self-discovery and a deepened commitment to helping others.

With over 25 years of experience as a yoga student and teacher, Wendy's expertise lies in integrating yoga with grief support. She is a certified Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapist and instructor, with additional qualifications in yoga teacher training and Reiki. Her work is heavily influenced by the teachings of Ram Dass, Shiva Rea, Twee Merrigan, Shannon Paige, and Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy.

MEET YOUR GUIDE

Join us for a Free Preview Call on February 5th

Register for the Call

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A Legacy of Healing: Embracing Your Journey of Mindful Grieving

This is an invitation for you to delve into the heart of mindful grieving amidst Maui’s ancient wisdom and serene beauty. Join us in this circle of healing, where you'll expand your understanding, awaken new perspectives, and be part of a transformative journey in mindful grieving. Heed this call to explore the depths of your emotions and begin a path of healing and self-discovery. Join us on this unforgettable and life-enriching experience in Maui.

Join Us