Val Altree
Valerie Altree - Retreat Host, Spiritual Guide, and Culinary Instructor
Valerie Altree is the heart of the Essence of Altree Retreat. As a spiritual guide, holistic healer, and culinary instructor, Valerie combines her extensive experience in personal healing and transformation to create a nurturing and empowering environment for guests. Through daily spiritual sessions, including cacao ceremonies and personal readings, Valerie helps guests connect deeply with their inner selves, encouraging self-reflection and spiritual growth. Her healing tea and sleep-ready ceremonies offer a space for emotional release and relaxation, helping guests find inner peace and balance. Valerie’s cooking classes, which focus on the healing power of food, empower guests to nourish their bodies and minds with intention, reinforcing the connection between what we consume and how we feel. Valerie’s personal journey of overcoming health challenges through spiritual and holistic practices serves as a testament to the transformative power of self-care, inspiring guests to take charge of their own well-being.
Jamie Hahn
Jaime Hahn - Self-Defense Instructor
Jaime Hahn, a certified Muay Thai Kru and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, brings over 15 years of martial arts experience focused on empowering women. Jaime’s classes go beyond just physical defense techniques; they are designed to instill a sense of confidence and self-assurance in participants. By learning how to set boundaries and protect themselves, guests will also experience emotional empowerment, helping them reclaim control over their personal space and safety. Jaime’s compassionate teaching style encourages guests to tap into their inner strength, fostering resilience not just in self-defense, but in all aspects of their lives.
Eduardo Avallar
Eduardo Avallar - Self-Defense Instructor
Eduardo Avallar, with 23 years of martial arts expertise, specializes in Krav Maga and Police Self Defense. Eduardo’s classes emphasize practical skills that are easy to learn and apply in real-world situations, empowering guests by making them feel prepared and capable of handling challenges. Eduardo's approach includes mental preparation and stress management techniques, offering guests a holistic way to handle fear and anxiety. By equipping participants with these tools, Eduardo helps them build a stronger sense of self-worth and emotional fortitude, reinforcing the idea that they are capable of protecting themselves and making empowered decisions.
Linda & William
Linda and William - Beach Tour Guides
Linda and William offer more than just beach tours; they provide a unique opportunity for guests to connect with nature and themselves in a meaningful way. Linda’s journey from a youth corrections officer in Canada to fulfilling her dream of living in Bocas del Toro is a story of resilience and following one’s heart. William, with his deep roots in Bocas and his skills in traditional boat building, exemplifies living in harmony with nature. Together, they will guide guests along the beaches, sharing insights about the local culture and their own life experiences. Their tours are more than sightseeing—they are about reconnecting with the earth, embracing simplicity, and finding joy in the natural world. This connection to nature can be deeply healing, offering guests a chance to reflect on their own lives and inspire them to pursue their true desires and aspirations.
La Tierra del Encanto
La Tierra del Encanto - Waterfall and Hiking Guides
La Tierra del Encanto, run by a family dedicated to sustainability and nature, offers a serene setting for guests to engage in self-discovery and healing. The waterfalls and hiking trails provide a backdrop for personal reflection and mindfulness, encouraging guests to slow down and appreciate the present moment. The guided experiences allow guests to connect with the natural world, which can be profoundly grounding and spiritually uplifting. By exploring these beautiful natural spaces, guests are encouraged to let go of stress and find peace within themselves. The family’s commitment to living in harmony with the environment serves as an inspiration for guests to cultivate a deeper connection with nature, promoting emotional healing and a sense of empowerment through mindful living.
Jen
Jen - Yoga Instructor
Jen, the founder of Pure Roots Wellness, brings a transformative approach to yoga that emphasizes inner connection and self-awareness. Her journey, which includes completing 500 hours of Yoga Teacher Training in India, has equipped her with a deep understanding of the spiritual and emotional aspects of yoga. Jen’s classes at the retreat will focus on the Chakra Sequence, guiding guests through a journey of self-exploration and emotional release. Her approach is inclusive and nurturing, creating a safe space for guests to explore their vulnerabilities and find strength within. By practicing yoga, guests can reconnect with their bodies, release emotional blockages, and cultivate a sense of inner peace and empowerment. Jen’s teaching goes beyond the physical postures, offering tools for spiritual growth and personal empowerment that guests can carry with them long after the retreat.
