Take a Breath Retreats

Mindfulness Retreats infused in Jewish Wisdom

for clergy only.

A powerful source of renewal, inspiration, and personal growth for Rabbis, Cantors, and Rabbis in Training.

This is for you, Rabbis, Cantors, Rabbinical students, Shelihei Tzibur (שליחי ציבור), and other clergy members: Your leadership is crucial within Jewish communities. Our retreats, set amidst Costa Rica's tranquil landscapes, are tailored to empower you through mindful breakthroughs, drawing from profound Jewish teachings. With over four decades of experience nurturing individuals and communities, we offer a dynamic mix of practices rooted in relational psychology. These practices aim to strengthen your leadership, deepen your connection to Jewish wisdom, and inspire the communities you serve. Additionally, our retreats provide opportunities for your personal growth and well-being. Discover how our unique experiences can revitalize and fortify your mission.

 Who are we?

We are a couple with over 40 years of experience in large non-profit organizations, personal development, personal growth, Judaism, and psychology, among other items. We craft and create immersive wellness experiences in the heart of Costa Rica, designed to help you relax, rejuvenate, and reconnect with yourself. Marcelo and Karina, leaders and creators of the retreats have been working from the intersection of Judaism, playfulness, arts, psychology, mindfulness, and personal growth for a couple of decades, and have welcomed hundreds of people in the retreat they both lead and create.

What’s our story?

Karina is an artist and skilled group facilitator who was born in Argentina, lived in New York for over 30 years and lives now in Costa Rica, while traveling to Buenos Aires and Israel to visit their grandchildren. She specializes in crafting inclusive experiences that ignite spiritual and personal growth for both individuals and communities. Karina's passion lies in empowering people to believe in themselves and foster meaningful connections with others. At her core, Karina is on a mission to inspire fulfillment as a guiding principle, seamlessly merging one's true self with their actions and endeavors.

Marcelo is a rabbi, therapist, and mindfulness practitioner and facilitator. He is a devoted advocate of intentional communities. Throughout his life, Marcelo has wholeheartedly committed himself to the creation of these purposeful communities. His unwavering passion revolves around guiding individuals through immersive and transformational experiences. Marcelo's expertise lies at the confluence of Jewish wisdom, psychology, and contemplative practices, offering a unique perspective on personal growth and community development. As a mentor, Marcelo firmly believes in nurturing people's aspirations with both compassion and unwavering determination, fostering a path toward a more integrated and harmonious life.

Do we offer a PD certification for the participants of your retreat?

We do. A Professional Development certification can be issued at the end of our retreat.

Why could our retreats offer Rabbis, Cantors, and Rabbis in training a unique, transformative space of personal growth?

Our retreats offer a transformative oasis for the soul of Jewish clergy members, providing a unique opportunity to recharge, deepen their spiritual connection, and enhance their leadership skills. Rooted in Jewish wisdom and guided by compassionate principles, these retreats empower clergy with valuable tools drawn from relational psychology, spirituality, music, movement, journaling, and meditation. The lush backdrop of Costa Rica enhances the experience, allowing people to nurture their own well-being and gain fresh perspectives to better serve their congregations and also their families. With over four decades of expertise, our retreats are a powerful source of renewal, inspiration, and personal growth, equipping clergy to lead with enhanced compassion and wisdom in their sacred and demanding roles.