The Art of Play & Presence
a retreat in Saint Croix, US Virgin Islands
March 25th-29th, 2026
Immerse your senses, awaken your creativity, and revive your playful spirit.
This retreat is ideal for anyone longing to create in a small community — with self, with others, and with nature — while also enjoying generous time to rest, explore, or simply be held by the natural beauty of a tropical island.
Throughout our time together, you’ll be gently guided to cultivate awareness and delight in the subtle interactions between your inner and outer worlds.
Together, we will practice noticing with all of our senses, approaching the self with curiosity, lingering a little longer in presence, and savoring the spaciousness of being “a world away.”
You’ll return home grounded, inspired, and carrying a renewed sense of grace, playfulness, and appreciation for the life within and around you.
This retreat is especially well-suited for healers interested in finding respite in a time of burnout for their own renewal.
3 out of 8 spots remain.
Prepare to be present.
Each day begins by awakening your senses and deepening your capacity for presence. Enjoy a short guided meditation and gentle yoga — cooled by the soft ocean breeze — followed by a soul nourishing breakfast featuring vibrant local cuisine. Linger on the veranda overlooking the ocean before we dive into our morning workshop.
Each day is centered around a unique theme that we will explore through creative processes, movement, and mindful reflection. You’ll receive prompts to carry with you throughout the day, inviting curiosity and deeper noticing. Art supplies will be available in the common room for you to use at any time — whether inspiration strikes quietly or in joyful bursts.
After lunch, we’ll continue engaging with the day’s theme before you’re set free to enjoy your afternoon in whatever way nourishes you most. Lounge by the pool or wander along white-sand beaches, peaceful harbors, and rocky shorelines. Optional excursions may include snorkeling, a catamaran cruise, kayaking, or visiting a coral restoration project. Swing in the giant hammock, journal by the sea, or simply rest on the veranda.
As the sun melts into the horizon, we’ll share in activities that gently integrate the day’s theme. Options may include bioluminescent kayaking, dancing, creative play, storytelling, and reflection circles.
End the night stargazing beneath the expansive sky — a humbling reminder of the wonder that holds us all.
Prepare to Explore.
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Movement
As our first evening commences, you’ll be invited to lay comfortably beneath the stars as we are guided through a yoga nidra practice. Your instructor will guide you through gentle movements, inviting you to connect with your breath and settle into the present moment. With each inhale and exhale, you’ll feel tension soften and worries begin to release.
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Moonlit Kayak Tour
As you arrive at the shore, clear-bottom kayaks await. You’ll choose a partner for this shared journey, heart fluttering with excitement and maybe a hint of doubt. Surrounded by supportive guides and fellow professionals, you’ll paddle toward the mangrove forest and the glowing wonder of the Bioluminescent Bay.
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Visit to Buck Island + Snorkeling
Set sail on a catamaran to Buck Island and snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and crystal-clear waters in a true Caribbean paradise.
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Intuitive Art-Making
Allow the stunning environment to inspire you to create freely and playfully—without judgment, expectation, or outcome—as you move through intuitive art-making.
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Mystery Surprise
Unwrap the unexpected in our Mystery Workshop—a surprise creative experience designed to indulge in the beauty of the Caribbean, and spark curiosity, joy, and discovery. What you’ll explore is a secret until you arrive!
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Sunset Sail
As the retreat comes to a close, you’ll step aboard for a peaceful sunset sail. With the warm glow of the fading light reflecting on the water, you’ll gather with your group to honor the journey you’ve shared. Gentle waves, soft conversation, and the colors of the setting sun create a serene, celebratory ending—an embodied reminder of connection, reflection, and everything you’re taking home with you.
Prepare to Relax.
An escape rooted in love & legacy.
This peaceful island villa holds deep personal meaning for Ashley, founder of Works from the heART. More than 15 years ago, her parents and grandparents poured their love and vision into creating this space — a sanctuary for making memories together.
Ashley’s grandparents later moved to the island, and this villa became the backdrop for countless cherished family moments: laughter echoing across the veranda, shared meals overlooking the sea, and quiet, soul-filling mornings in nature. It has long been a place of connection, joy, and renewal for her family.
Ashley’s heartfelt hope is that this home now offers the same peace, magic, and meaningful experiences to all who visit — just as it has for her, her parents, and her grandparents.
In loving memory of Linda & Michael Gropp, whose spirit and vision continue to infuse this place with warmth and welcome.
The Details
4 bedrooms, all connected to the main house
3.5 bathrooms (2.5 upstairs, 1 downstairs)
Small group size - villa accommodates 6-8 participants
Private pool
Breathtaking Caribbean Sea views
Modern comfort with island charm, offering indoor-outdoor living at its best.
Wake up to ocean breezes, sip cocktails by the pool, and enjoy unforgettable views from your private terrace.
Just minutes from the beach, local restaurants, and island attractions.
Room Options
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The Seaview
(2 - 4 people)
- 1 queen bed in private shared room
- 1 fold out queen bed
- Private bathroom
- Private lounge area
- Shared kitchen$2,500.00 per person (if shared)
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The Dragonfly
(1 - 2 people)
- 1 queen bed in private room
- Shared bathroom
- Common lounge area
- Shared kitchen area$2,400.00 per person (if shared)
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The Lizard
(1 - 2 people)
- 1 queen bed in private room
- Shared bathroom
- Common lounge area
- Shared kitchen area$2,400.00 per person (if shared)
For an overview of the property, please view the following video.
Off-Property Accommodation Suggestions
Overlooking the Caribbean and Christiansted harbor, fronting three distinctive and spectacular beaches, The Buccaneer is the most iconic luxury resort in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. It’s tranquil with stunning views in every direction and 340 acres of an oceanfront playground encompassing an 18-hole golf course, eight tennis courts, three beaches, two pools, a water sports center, a spa, a 24-hour fitness center and three restaurants.
Genesis Properties
In the event that rooms are booked for our onsite property, you can book through our property management, Genesis Properties, at a different location.
Please be mindful to book in or near Christiansted (NOT Frederiksted).
What’s Included
5 nights of retreat accommodations (March 25th - 29th)
Complimentary additional first night for travel purposes (March 24th)
All meals onsite and offsite
Airport transportation
Group excursions such as snorkeling, kayaking, yoga, and sunset sail
Transportation to activities
Experiential art lessons
Daily activities & art supplies
Surprises!
What’s Not Included
Round-Trip Airfare
Optional additional excursions & transportation
Tips for transportation & excursions
Alcoholic beverages
Trip Cancellation/Insurance
Count me in!
This non-refundable deposit confirms your spot for our St. Croix Retreat March 24-2, 2026!
Note: 50% of the remaining payment (appx $950) is due by 1/04/2026, and the final payment (appx $950) is due by 2/04/2026.
If you would like to inquire about an alternative payment plan, please contact us at admin@worksfromtheheart.org