The Magic of the Sierra Comes to SoCal
Step into Spring with intention during this nourishing getaway in the radiant Ojai Valley. This retreat invites you to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and prepare for the season of renewal. Together, we’ll weave yoga, meditation, nature immersion, and mindful reflection into a spacious weekend designed to awaken your senses and rejuvenate your spirit.
About This Experience
This retreat includes Balanced Rock’s tried-and-true offerings, cultivated over 25+ years of guiding transformative experiences:
Carefully-crafted yoga and meditation sessions designed to support springtime vitality
Reflective and inspired writing prompts to help you reset and realign
Unique seasonal and place-based experiences rooted in the magic of Ojai
An option to join a guided hike through the surrounding hillsides, bursting with wildflowers and spring colors
Ample unstructured time to enjoy the hot tub, pool, or wander the beautiful retreat grounds at your own pace
Throughout the retreat, we create an intentional space for deep rest, gentle awakening, and personal renewal—a soulful welcome to Spring.
What’s Included
About the Food
Ojai’s spring bounty is a retreat in itself. Together, we will explore the “flavors of terroir”—a true taste of place—through thoughtfully prepared meals that celebrate the valley’s vibrant farms and orchards.
Together, we will enjoy:
Seasonal dishes crafted from hyper-local produce, sourced directly from Ojai farmers and ranchers
A local culinary tasting or foodie field trip, highlighting the region’s agricultural richness
Fresh, nourishing meals prepared by Chef Ari that reflect the rhythms of the season and support vitality, balance, and delight
Food is a cornerstone of the Balanced Rock experience, and this retreat offers the chance to savor spring’s abundance in every sense.
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Thursday, March 26: Day 1 (Arrival)
Afternoon arrival & check-in
Welcome circle and intention-setting
Gentle yoga
Dinner & evening connection activity
Friday, March 27: Day 2
Awaken (hot drinks & morning snacks)
Morning yoga/meditation
Group breakfast
Morning retreat session
Group lunch
Afternoon session
Group dinner
Evening session
Saturday, March 28: Day 3
Awaken (hot drinks & morning snacks)
Morning yoga/meditation
Group breakfast
Morning retreat session
Group lunch
Afternoon session
Group dinner
Evening session
Sunday, March 29: Day 3 (Closing)
Awaken (hot drinks & morning snacks)
Morning yoga/meditation
Group breakfast
Morning retreat session (closing circle)
Farewells & travel home (by midday)
While we intentionally schedule in down time for rest, time by pool/hot tub, or to read or connect with others…all retreat offerings are optional. We encourage you to take the time you need to retreat and have the kind of experience that is the most supportive for you.
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Venue: Twin Creek Ranch in Ojai, California
Lodging: Shared or private accommodations available
Group Size: Limited to 12–14 participants for intimacy and connection
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$1,250 per person (all-inclusive price for accommodations, meals, and retreat activities)
Balanced Rock strives to offer affordable programming to all of our interested participants. If you need financial assistance to attend this program, please contact us to request an application.
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We will be sending out a recommended packing list to registered participants. This is a lodge-based retreat, and participants will be responsible for bringing their own personal items (food and yoga gear included in the retreat).
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If you cancel your registration more than 1 month prior to the trip start date, you will receive a full refund minus a $50 registration fee to the credit card on file.
If you cancel your registration less than 1 month prior to the program start date, you will not be eligible to receive a refund.
We highly recommend all participants purchase trip insurance in the case of a trip cancellation (a full refund of course tuition will be remitted if Balanced Rock has to cancel the trip due to natural disaster, park closure, etc).
All participants are required to read and accept our Cancellation and Refund Policy upon registration.
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All participants will be required to read and sign the Health & Safety Policy for Programs at registration.
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What is included in the retreat price?
Your registration includes lodging for the retreat dates (Thursday evening through Saturday night; checking out Sunday), lovingly prepared meals, guided yoga and meditation practices, facilitated group experiences, and access to nature-based wellness activities. Some retreats may also include art workshops, hikes, or special guest teachings. Travel to/from the retreat location and optional add-ons are not included.
Do I need prior yoga or meditation experience?
No. Balanced Rock retreats are intentionally designed to welcome all levels, from complete beginners to longtime practitioners. Our skilled instructors offer variations so everyone feels supported, comfortable, and empowered.
What should I pack for a lodge-based retreat?
We encourage guests to bring comfortable clothing for yoga and movement, warm layers, outdoor footwear, a reusable water bottle, and any personal items you need for rest and reflection. A full packing list will be provided, and all yoga props will available at the lodge.
What is the lodging situation like?
Lodges vary by retreat but are generally cozy, communal spaces with comfortable shared or private rooms, warm gathering areas, and access to the surrounding natural landscape. Many offer modern amenities while preserving a sense of simplicity and connection to place.
I have dietary restrictions—can they be accommodated?
Absolutely. Balanced Rock retreats offer wholesome, nourishing meals with vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options available. If you have allergies or specific needs, you will be able to share those in your registration form and we’ll do our best to ensure you are cared for.
Want to speak to a human being? Book a 15-min discovery call with one of our team members to ask questions and learn more about this program!
What People Are Saying About Balanced Rock’s Retreats
“From the moment I stepped into the retreat, I felt loved, welcomed, and safe. Our yoga practices were centering and our journaling time helped me to reignite my love of writing. Heather Sullivan was an amazing leader. The peace and rest I found there are truly indescribable.”
“I was so inspired and transformed by our time together that I am hosting my own retreat here in 2 weeks! It’s just primarily close friends, and I’m co-leading it with another dear friend, but I wanted to pay homage to Balanced Rock for fanning the spark in me to try it. Ever since leaving the retreat, I have felt called to help my fellow women wake up to their own power, creativity, and intuition in a way that I cannot ignore.”
“I stumbled across Balanced Rock completely by accident, and I’m so glad I did. The whole retreat experience was incredible, from the group outings to the food to the wonderful staff. If you’re on the fence about a Balanced Rock trip: book it. It will change your life.”
Meet Your Retreat Facilitators
HEATHER SULLIVAN • Retreat Leader
Heather has lived in the Yosemite area for over 20 years. The steep granite valley walls, seasonal change of the river song, and community of animals and humans have deeply shaped her being and worldview. Co-Founder of Balanced Rock, she continues to serve as Executive Director using her skills of non-profit management and leadership, group facilitation, community building, mentorship, and program development to hold the vision and lead the organization through its continued evolution.
She delights in creating unique, powerful programs and supporting staff and instructors to shine their magic in the world. She is a gifted teacher and seasoned mountain guide at heart and makes sure to get in the field as an instructor each season.
ARIANA NOELKE • Retreat Chef
Ariana is a chef and educator who brings warmth, creativity, and a deep sense of care to every meal. As the retreat chef for yoga and wellness gatherings, she designs menus that are Ayurvedically-inspired—nourishing body and spirit through seasonal balance, color, and intention.
Rooted in the bounty of the Ojai Valley, Ariana’s cooking celebrates the citrus groves, vibrant produce, and bright herbs of the season. Her meals invite guests to slow down, reconnect with the rhythms of nature, and gather in laughter and gratitude. Each dish is crafted to support renewal, mindfulness, and the simple beauty of eating well in a place that feels alive.