Everything you need to know before you go.
GENERAL
What is a retreat?
A retreat is an opportunity to explore, discover, and heal your mind, body and spirit. We are busy human beings, distracted by everyday life and bogged down by the details, and it’s for that reason that a “time-out” can be necessary in order to relax, look within, learn, grow, connect with like-minded people, and allow for a valuable new, energized perspective. A retreat becomes a chance to experience yourself in a different way.
In a world of separatism, a retreat is a communal life-affirming experience. People often have to schedule time off in order to attend a retreat, that’s why they’re held in beautiful locations, which allows for a wonderful vacation feel. Retreats not only offer quantum healing but they are experiences to be treasured and remembered for the rest of your life.
Desert Reset is a Joshua Tree wellness retreat, featuring physical, emotional and spiritual exploration in a safe and luxurious setting.
Is this retreat for anyone?
Yes! You do not have to know anyone associated with the retreat nor know anything about hypnosis, spirituality, meditation, yoga and such.
Please note that we do reserve the right to refuse service to anyone we deem unfit for this retreat experience.
Is Desert Reset available for private company retreats?
Yes! We are available for small companies and accommodate up to 15 team members. Desert Reset company retreats are customizable and can be all-inclusive. Please visit the Company Retreats page for more information.
What is the maximum number of participants?
Normally, 20, but for COVID precautions, 15.
What is included in the retreat?
Lodging (unless registered as a “Commuter”), plant-based breakfast, lunch and dinner, snacks, gift bag, group hypnotherapy, yoga classes (all levels), breathwork class, qi gong, Tibetan 5 rites of rejuvenation, higher self’s vision board class, ecstatic dance, guided nature meditations, Tibetan bowl sound bath meditation, Joshua Tree National Park excursion, any other activities and classes at retreat, and all 47 of Cynthia's audio mp3 downloadable hypnotherapy sessions (a $100 value)!
What are the extracurricular activities?
Swimming in our heated pool, wildlife watching, enjoying spectacular sunrises and sunsets, stargazing, photography, relaxing by the fire pit, board games and puzzles, journaling, and exploring world-renowned Joshua Tree National Park and the local towns. You can also purchase a private massage or private yoga class.
What if I don’t want to participate in all of the activities?
Some activities may not appeal to you, and that’s perfectly fine. It might be fun to explore a couple of them, but you’re welcome to use that time however you please. We want this to be YOUR retreat, designed for the activities that promote your own healing and resetting--and vacation!
What is hypnotherapy?
Great question! Please visit the Hypnotherapy Frequently Asked Questions section at the bottom of the Hypnotherapy page.
Will Cynthia do private hypnotherapy sessions during the retreat?
The group hypnotherapy sessions are a thoughtfully designed process by Cynthia to promote optimal healing and the highest outcome for you. The goal is that all of your hypnotherapy needs are taken care of in group sessions throughout the retreat. Unfortunately, due to the demands of holding a retreat, Cynthia will not be available to give private sessions.
Can I attend the retreat by myself?
Most people do! Retreats can be fun for couples or friends but the majority of retreat participants go solo. People who are interested in retreats tend to be respectful, thoughtful, well-centered individuals, so it’s a great way to meet new friends. But it also can be a treasured time for reconnecting with yourself and relish much-needed "alone" time.
What should I bring to the retreat?
What to bring in terms of clothing will depend on the weather. The desert can be unpredictable, for that reason, please check the forecast for appropriate clothing. Summer can be hot and winter is mild.
Linens, towels, washcloths, pool towels, soap, shampoo, conditioner and hairdryers are provided. Here are a few suggestions of what to bring:
Refillable water bottle
Ear plugs/eye mask for sleeping
Layered, relaxed, comfortable clothing: yoga pants/tops, and loungewear. Hiking shoes, and perhaps something to wear to dinner if you choose to dine at a local restaurant. (Though this is a very casual town.)
Hat
Jacket
Swimsuit
Bathrobe (to and from bathroom and pool)
Slippers or slide-on sandals (floors can be cool, and for those staying in the pool house, two of the bedrooms require walking across outside cement for bathroom access. It's only a few steps or a few feet, depending on the room, but it could be chilly!)
NOTE: Yoga mats, yoga equipment, blankets, pillows, as well as tempurpedic memory foam pads for hypnotherapy and breathwork are provided.
What time does the retreat begin and end?
This retreat is designed to make it easy on the traveller. Official check-in is from 2:00pm - 4:00pm on Thursday, but you can check-in anytime after 4:00pm on Thursday (even late into the night) because self check-in is available. So don't stress, arrive when you can! The retreat ends at 12:00pm on Sunday with a 2:00pm check-out time. You are welcome to enjoy the facilities until check-out. And if you would like to stay an extra night (Sunday night) we allow that for an additional $150. We can give you your own private room if you are in a shared room.
What is the retreat schedule?
Please visit Daily Schedule.
Can I arrive early on the day the retreat begins or stay later after the retreat ends?
An early arrival is tricky because check-in will not be set up until 2pm, but we will do our best to accommodate your travel schedule. And YES you can stay an extra night! The charge is $150 per person. You are more than welcome to upgrade your room if there is one available, and you can invite someone who did not particpate in the retreat to join you for that night's stay, too. Whether you stay in separate rooms or share a room, it is $150 per person. You are welcome to inquire about staying extra hours if you are catching a later flight. If you would like to extend your stay in the High Desert beyond what we can provide, then Brad, our Hospitality Manager, will be happy to direct you to a beautiful Airbnb that he manages.
Do I need a car once I am at the retreat center?
No, a car is not necessary once you're at the retreat. Taxis and Uber are available. We recommend that you rent a car if you want to explore the local area. If you fly into Palm Springs, you can rent a car at the airport (or take a taxi or Uber). If you want to visit Joshua Tree National Park (aside from our transportation provided excursion), Pioneertown, or Palm Springs, or simply have the freedom to come and go as your please, then renting a car is the way to go. The retreat center is a couple of miles of walking distance to restaurants and shops. The Mojave desert is a unique area, and if you're a first-time visitor we don't want you to miss some of its spectacular sights. Having said that, we do have out-of-town participants who choose to spend their entire time at the retreat, as it's very relaxing.
How far is the retreat center from Joshua Tree National Park?
The retreat is ten minutes to the visitor’s center, just before the entrance to the Park.
REGISTRATION
How much does the retreat cost?
Prices start at $995.00 and vary depending upon whether you are staying at the retreat or commuting, as well as if you are alone or sharing a room. Please visit the Registration page to see prices and available rooms.
How do I register for the retreat?
Register online on the Registration page. If you are unable to register online, please Contact us.
Can I attend the retreat as a commuter?
Yes! Please see pricing to book the retreat without onsite accommodations.
What is a commuter?
Unlike residents who stay at the retreat overnight, commuters are not provided with overnight accommodations. They do, however, attend the full retreat, including meals and activities. Some commuters prefer to stay in an Airbnb, which are plentiful in the Joshua Tree area. We can help you find the perfect Airbnb, as Brad, our hospitality director, manages 30 Airbnbs in the area. Please let us know how we can guide you to the right accommodation. The commuter cost is lower than the residential cost.
Are there any additional fees or taxes I must pay?
No, everything, including tax, is included in your price. (Please note that commuter participant prices do not include accommodations.)
Can I pay in installments?
Yes! We want to make this as easy as possible for you to attend. Please Contact us directly to set up installment payments that work within your budget.
Do I need to sign anything?
Once you register for the retreat, approximately two weeks before the retreat start date, we will email you an information document with an intake form and waiver that you will fill out and sign online prior to your arrival.
Can I get on a waitlist if the retreat is sold out?
Absolutely! If the retreat is sold out, please Contact us to get on our waitlist. If a spot opens up, we’ll notify you ASAP.
CANCELLATION
What if I need to cancel?
We understand that sometimes our plans don’t work out. If you need to cancel, please notify us immediately. Because retreats are planned well in advance for participants due to having to take time off of work and book travel arrangements, it is difficult to fill spots left open by cancellations closer to the retreat date.
You may postpone your retreat to a more convenient future retreat date with no cancellation fee.
If you cancel for a refund more than 60 days in advance (before the retreat), a full refund minus $100.00 will be returned. If you cancel for a refund between 30 and 59 days in advance, 50% will be refunded to you. If you cancel for a refund between 14 and 29 days, 25% will be refunded to you. If you cancel less than 13 days in advance, you will not be refunded.
Please allow 10 business days for your refund to process.
Can I transfer my enrollment to a friend?
Sure! Contact us immediately so that we can get your friend registered and ready to go.
RETREAT PRACTICE
Phones and Internet
You are welcome to use your phone and the internet (there is wifi). Please, however, do not use your phone while inside the studio space during a session. If you need to check your phone or make a call during a session, kindly step outside.
Studio Space Etiquette
We ask that participants be on time and not leave until the end of a session. (Unless of course a bathroom or water or phone break is necessary. There will be plenty of breaks for these things, as well.)
Other Activities
A retreat is a valuable time to turn your attention inward. To take advantage of this special time, we encourage you to bring reading material or pursue other activities like creative writing, star mapping, hiking, sketching, or photography during the retreat.
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted on the property, but there is a road 200 feet in front of the property on which you can smoke. This is the desert, so please be aware that lit cigarettes pose a potentially disastrous consequence if not properly disposed of in a garbage can.
Fragrance-free
Please refrain from using heavy fragrances, perfumes and essential oils due to the potential allergies, asthma or chemical sensitivities of your fellow participants.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Coming soon
FOOD
What meals are included?
All meals and snacks are included in the price of the retreat, both for residents and commuters. If you prefer, you can opt-out of any meal and eat as you wish off-site, exploring the wonderful local restaurants and town. You can also use the kitchen in the main house to make your own plant-based dinner. There is a dining room with a community table, living room tables in the main community house, and an outdoor table and chair for dining al fresco. Light snacks (bars, fruit, nuts) are allowed in your bedroom.
What are meals like?
All meals served are plant-based. Breakfast includes freshly made green juices, fruit plates, granola, cereals, bagels and cream cheese, tomatoes, yogurt, avocado toast, juices and milks. Lunches and dinners are made by a renowned vegan chef who uses only organic and locally sourced foods. (See photos in Cuisine.) There will be snacks available at all times. Communal spaces are plant-based only.
What if I want to eat animal products?
You absolutely can! However, the retreat is plant-based, so there will be no meat served or allowed to be cooked or eaten in communal spaces. You are welcome to have animal products in your bedroom (like freeze-dried jerky or a meal you bring in). You are free to opt-out of the meals and dine at the local restaurants, if you prefer.
Are tea, hot water, and coffee available?
Yes, they are available throughout the day.
TRAVEL DIRECTIONS
We are located about 45 miles north of Palm Springs International Airport in the Joshua Tree National Park area.
Getting to Joshua Tree (Remote, but easy to get to. We promise.)
We encourage you to fly into Palm Springs, as that is the closest airport and it's a stress-free airport. (Named one of the Top 10 U.S. "Most Stress-Free Airports" by SmartTravel.com.)
As soon as you set foot in Palm Springs, you'll relax into a retro-cool midcentury laid-back vibe that is unique to this cosmopolitan desert oasis. (If you've never been, we suggest spending a day exploring Palm Springs either before or after your retreat.) From Palm Springs, the retreat center is approximately 35 miles north. The exact address will be given after your registration.
If you prefer not to rent a car, there are taxis (Desert City Cab), Uber, and shuttles (AM/PM Shuttle Service) from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree. Uber services the Joshua Tree area, as well.
Airport Travel Time
Palm Springs, CA (PSP) – 45 min.
Ontario, CA (ONT) – 1 hour 35 min.
Orange County, CA (JWA) – 2 hours
Long Beach, CA (LGB) – 2 hours 20 min.
Los Angeles, CA (LAX) – 2 hours 30 min.
San Diego, CA (SAN) – 2 hours 40 min.
How do I get from LAX Airport to Palm Springs?
Ride Share Options:
A Lyft or Uber from LAX to Palm Springs can cost $200 - $400, depending on the day / time.
Uber and Lyft are good choices for 3-4 people traveling together
It can be more cost effective and the fastest option if not renting a car.
Public Transportation Options:
Option One: Combination Flyaway Bus and Amtrak Service
Take the Flyaway bus from LAX to Union Station in downtown Los Angeles:
https://www.lawa.org/flyaway
All FlyAway®buses drop off passengers on Upper/ Departures Level in front of each terminal at LAX
Passengers board buses on the Lower/Arrivals Level curbside in front of each terminal under the green “FlyAway®, Buses and Long Distance Vans” sign.
Current one-way fare to Union Station from LAX is $9.75 (price subject to change)
The FlyAway® bus service accepts American Express, MasterCard and Visa debit or credit cards. Cash is NOT accepted on any route.
Cash and credit cards may be used to purchase FlyAway® tickets from all Metrolink ticket vending machines for service at the Union Station location.
Then take Route 91 Amtrak from Union Station to Fullerton, CA: www.amtrak.com
In the booking section, type “LAX “in the “From” field which indicates you will board the train at Union Station in Los Angeles. Type “PSP” in the “To” field which indicates you will be dropped off at the Palm Springs International Airport.
The Amtrak “Pacific Surfliner” route picks up at Union Station and will take you as far as Fullerton, CA.
This train takes about 45 minutes.
Once at the Fullerton station, transfer from the Amtrak train to the Amtrak coach bus.
The coach bus takes you to Palm Springs International Airport where you can rent a car, take a taxi or order a Lyft or Uber to get to your hotel. Check with your hotel to see if they offer shuttle service.
Option Two: Take the Greyhound bus
Greyhound Customer Service: www.greyhound.com or call (800) 231-2222
Greyhound offers connecting service to the Palm Springs area 4 times daily.
The Los Angeles Station is located at:
Los Angeles Greyhound Station
1716 E 7TH ST
Los Angeles, CA 90021
Main: (213) 629-8401
Customer Service: (213) 629-8536
The two Greyhound bus stops near Palm Springs are located at:
Thousand Palms Bus Station
72-480 Varner Rd
Thousand Palms, CA 92276
(Bus stop only)
Approximately 12 mile drive to Palm Springs from this stop.
Indio Bus Station
83 100 Indio Blvd
Indio, CA 92201
Tel: (760) 347-5888
Approximately 25 mile drive to Palm Springs from this stop.
Shuttle and Limo Service Options
Skycap Shuttle Service provides of Luxury SUV, Town Car, and Van Shuttle Service to all locations in Palm Springs and surrounding desert cities.
Prime Time Shuttle offers shuttle service from LAX to Palm Springs. Prices vary by vehicle and group size. These can be ordered online in advance.
Lin Lines provides an elite fleet with professional, uniformed drivers, competitive prices and volume discounts for larger groups.
Cardiff Limousine & Transportation provide convention and private transportation service. Serve the Palm Springs area and provide airport transportation to all Southern California airports.
Rent a Vehicle
Enterprise Rent-A-Car (866) 502-1260
Hertz (800) 654-3131
Alamo (800) 462-5266
Budget Rent-A-Car (800) 527-0700
Thrifty (800) 847-4389
Drive to Palm Springs
The minimum age to rent a car in California is 21, although drivers under 25 will be subject to a surcharge, and a current, valid license is required.
Use Google Maps to get turn by turn directions. https://www.google.com/maps
In general it is approximately a 100 mile drive.
Head east on I10 about 90 miles.
Slight right exit to Highway CA-111
After about 10 miles you’ll merge onto North Palm Canyon.
Continue onto North Palm Canyon and you will be in downtown Palm Springs.
Fly LAX to PSP
Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) www.palmspringsairport.com
“One of the Top 10 Most Stress-Free Airports in America”, Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) has non-stop flights from 18 cities and welcomes visitors from over 500 destinations worldwide. Many luxury travelers include Palm Springs in a larger itinerary spanning the American West.
Private Jet Services
These services deliver support services for business and private travelers with a variety of world-class amenities and exceptional customer service.