The Art of Play & Presence
a retreat in Saint Croix, US Virgin Islands
February 16-21st, 2027
What if wonder isn't something we lost, but something we simply stopped noticing?
The Art of Play & Presence is an invitation to slow down, awaken our senses, and reconnect with the curiosity, creativity, and awe that already live within us.
With color and the extraordinary sea life of Saint Croix acting as our teachers, we'll explore what happens when we look closer, question what we've accepted as “just the way things are,” and give ourselves permission to play, create, and be surprised again.
Through art, nature, movement, and immersive island experiences, we'll practice seeing the world—and ourselves—with fresh eyes and childlike wonder.
See the world anew.
We learned a lot of things growing up: Be quiet. Sit still. Color inside the lines.
That's just the way it is. And somewhere along the way, many of us became really good at knowing—but forgot how to wonder. You don't need to become someone new. You simply need to make space to notice what is already there.
Color as a language.
Color can awaken memories, emotions, sensations, and curiosity before we ever put words to an experience. Throughout the retreat, we’ll use color as a creative framework for exploring what catches our attention and what draws us in. Through intuitive and expressive art experiences, you'll be invited to experiment, play, and create without worrying about getting it “right.”
The sea invites us in.
Saint Croix gives us an extraordinary opportunity to explore wonder through the underwater world. From vibrant coral and tropical fish to sea turtles and other marine life, we'll use sea life as a lens for curiosity, awe, and perspective. Through snorkeling, kayaking, and creative experiences, we'll practice slowing down enough to notice the extraordinary in the natural world.
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