Retreat Overview

We invite you to a Mindfulness and Grief healing retreat at Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn & Spa in the Mountains of Buena Vista, Colorado, USA where we will be hosting 3 – Day retreat based on the Building H.O.P.E. model for Resilience and Change from July 31st – August 2nd 2026 Brush With Grief Retreat

Our unique approach to this retreat is to blend mindfulness and self-reflection activities that help you explore your relationship to change, life transitions, loss, and grief. This is your invitation to come and explore your path to healing.

With several hot springs, a creek, a sauna, and miles of scenic trails, this perfect location snuggled up to the mountains will partner with you on your healing journey.

Daily Itinerary Highlights:

• Day 1: Welcoming Dinner & Sharing Hopes
• Day 2: Discovering Mindfulness and Exploring Grief
• Day 3: Integration, Closure, and Departure

The H.O.P.E. Model:

H.O.P.E. stands for Happiness, Opportunities, Possibilities, and Excellence. This framework is central to our retreat’s mission, fostering a holistic healing environment.

• Happiness: Cultivating joy and contentment through contemplative practices and community support.
• Opportunities: Creating spaces for personal growth and new experiences.
• Possibilities: Encouraging a mindset open to change and new ways of thinking.
• Excellence: Striving for the highest standards in emotional and mental well-being.

Travel to the Site

Participants can fly into Denver International Airport (DIA) or Colorado Springs Airport (COS), both well-connected with major domestic and international flights. From either airport, renting a car is recommended for the scenic drive to Buena Vista. The journey offers breathtaking views of Colorado’s mountainous landscapes, with detailed driving instructions provided to ensure a smooth trip.

About the Site and Town

Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn & Spa is nestled in the picturesque town of Buena Vista, known for its stunning natural beauty and welcoming community. The town offers a tranquil atmosphere with a range of local amenities, including charming shops, cafes, and restaurants. Buena Vista is situated near the Arkansas River, providing opportunities for recreational activities such as kayaking, fishing, and hiking. The serene environment of the town complements the retreat’s focus on mindfulness and healing, allowing participants to unwind and immerse themselves in nature.

History of the Place and Activities

Cottonwood Hot Springs has a rich history dating back to the Cheyenne-Arapahoe and Ute indigenous peoples who first discovered the therapeutic benefits of the natural hot springs. Over the years, it has evolved into a beloved retreat center, renowned for its healing waters and serene setting. The hot springs are mineral-rich, providing therapeutic benefits that enhance relaxation and wellness. In addition to soaking in the hot springs, participants can enjoy the on-site sauna, explore the mystery of San Isabel National Forest, and partake in various outdoor activities. The location’s historical significance and natural beauty create an ideal environment for deep reflection and personal growth.

Elements and Minerals At Cottonwood Hot Springs

Element	Concentration	Description	Element	Concentration	Description
Arsenic (As)	4.5 UG/L	Reduce inflamation	Magnesium (Mg)	0.4 UG/L	Essential mineral for health
Boron (B)	92.5 UG/L	Supports bone health	Manganese (Mn)	10 UG/L	Important for metabolism
Calcium (Ca)	5.9 MG/L	Key for bones and teeth	Nitrogen (N)	0.12 MG/L	Vital for amino acids
Chloride (Cl)	30 MG/L	Electrolyte for fluid balance	Potassium (K)	2.7 MG/L	Electrolyte for heart function
Fluoride (F)	14 UG/L	Supports dental health	Silica (SiO2)	57 MG/L	Essential for connective tissues
Iron (Fe)	10 UG/L	Crucial for oxygen transport	Sodium (Na)	105 MG/L	Essential electrolyte
Lithium (Li)	155 UG/L	Mood stabilizer in medicine	Sulfate (SO4)	110 MG/L	Detoxification and metabolism
Zinc (Zn)	15 UG/L	Boosts immune system

Retreat Highlights:

• Beautiful Location: Nestled in the mountains with hot springs, a creek, a sauna, and scenic trails.
• Guided Meditations: Participate in mindfulness practices to ease grief.
• Community Support: Connect with others in group sharing sessions.
• Dedicated Time to Unwind: This is your invitation to come and explore your path to healing.

What You’ll Experience:

• Deep Emotional Healing: Confront and process your emotions in a supportive environment.
• Cultivate Mindfulness and Presence: Enhance self-awareness and acceptance.
• Personal & Professional Transformation: Gain tools and strategies for resilience.
• Foster Community and Connection: Share experiences and form supportive bonds.

Retreat Details:

• Date: June 3rd-5th, 2025
• Check-In: June 3rd 4:00pm – Welcome Dinner at 6:00pm
• Check-Out: June 5th 1:00pm
• Location: Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn & Spa, Buena Vista, Colorado
• CEUs: Earn up to 8 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).
• Participants: Max of 12

Logistics:

• Travel: Participants can fly into Denver International Airport (DIA) or Colorado Springs Airport (COS) and rent a car for the scenic drive to Buena Vista.
• Food: Welcome Dinner & Daily Lunch Provided; many restaurants within a ten-minute drive.
• Lodging: Early Bird Pricing Until May 31, 2025 – Promo Code: “EARLY” for $200 off
  • Private Room Package- $ 1800
  • Shared Room Package- $1400

Terms & Conditions
1 General

1.1. These Terms shall constitute the entire agreement between Contemplative Caregiver LLC (“Organizer”) and the Client relating to the subject matter herein, and shall constitute a binding agreement. There is no verbal or written; representation, warranty, prior agreement, or description of services, other than as expressed herein.

1.2. The word “retreat” is used interchangeably to mean any face to face, live event run by the Organizer at any location and duration and may not include accommodation as part of the event.

1.3. The contract and booking is made with, and services will be provided by Contemplative Caregiver LLC (Organizer). By booking a retreat, you agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions that govern the relationship, the cancellation policy and limitations of liability. These Terms and Conditions affect your rights and designate the governing law and forum for the resolution of any and all disputes.

1.4. The contract and booking is made with, and services will be provided by Contemplative Caregiver LLC (Organizer). By booking a retreat, you agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions that govern the relationship, the cancellation policy and limitations of liability. These Terms and Conditions affect your rights and designate the governing law and forum for the resolution of any and all disputes.

1.5. A booking is accepted and becomes definite only from the date when the Organizer sends a confirmation email, and when you have completed the payment.

1.6. An Organizer team member will contact you within 72 hours (during working days MST, GMT-7), regarding your completed registration to confirm your participation in your selected retreat.

2. Payment

2.1. Details of the retreat price and any deposit and installment options for each retreat are published on the retreat specific web page. All prices quoted will be USD$

2.2. Any Bank fees, currency conversion fees and credit card fees incurred by transferring money or paying retreat fees to the Organizer are the sole responsibility of the client.

3. Waiting List

3.1. As the participant number on each retreat is limited by the capacity of the venue we will operate a waiting list.

3.2. Once we have received confirmed bookings up to the maximum participant number for the retreat we will open the waiting list.

3.3. No payment is required to join the waiting list

3.4. When a place becomes available on the retreat we will contact those on the waiting list in the order that they joined the list.

3.5. If you are offered a place on the retreat as a result of being on the waiting list you will be subject to the payment terms above.

4. Cancellation Policy

4.1. If a guest cancels the booking greater than 180 days away from the retreat start date, any fees paid to that point in time will be refunded in full.

4.2. If a guest cancels the booking between 90 and 179 days away from the retreat start date, 50% of the fees paid will be refunded

4.3. If a guest cancels the booking between 45 and 89 days away from the retreat start date, 25% of the fees paid will be refunded

4.4. If a guest cancels the booking 44 days or fewer from the retreat start date, any fees paid to that point in time will be forfeited and lost in full.

4.5. If the Organizer cancels or changes a scheduled retreat date for any reason, excluding force majeure (see clause 4.5 below) you may transfer your full payment to another retreat date within a 12 month period, pending availability. The Organizer is not responsible for any expenses incurred in preparation of the canceled retreat, i.e. airplane tickets, illness, loss of work etc.

4.6. The Organizer will not be liable for cancellation, failure of, or delay in performing its obligations under this agreement due to force majeure events (Earthquake, hurricane, tornado, flooding, volcanic activity or other natural disasters, or in the case of war, action of foreign enemies, terrorist activities, labor dispute or strike, government sanction, blockage, embargo or epidemic) or if certain conditions present unacceptable danger to the participant.

4.7. In the event of a cancellation or refund, the Organizer will not be responsible for any currency fluctuations and will refund the original amount or appropriate percentage of US Dollars that was invoiced.

5. Traveling to the Retreat

5.1. Whilst the Organizer will use best endeavors to arrange all retreats reasonably close to a major airport it is the client’s own responsibility to make their way to the retreat venue.

5.2. Only book your flights and any other travel related costs once your place on the retreat is confirmed by the Organizer.

5.3. Any airport transfers included in the retreat fee will be listed on the retreat page.

5.4. Any fees otherwise incurred by a client to travel to the venue will be the sole responsibility of the client and no reimbursements are allowed.

5.5. Please note that passport holders are responsible for obtaining the required documentation applicable for entry to a country. Please note also that passports must be valid for at least six (6) months after completion of your journey and should also have sufficient blank pages for visas and immigrations stamps. The Organizer cannot be held responsible should you be denied entry to a country due to non-compliance with these or any other requirements. Should you require specific information ahead of travel, please consult the travel advice produced by the government of your home jurisdiction, as well as that of the government who issued the passport and/or visa you intend to travel under.

6. Insurances

6.1. The Organizer strongly urges Clients to obtain travel medical insurance. This insurance must cover personal injury and emergency medical expenses including, but not limited to, helicopter evacuation, air ambulance and repatriation.

6.2. It is strongly recommended the coverage be extended to include cancellation, curtailment, and all other expenses that might arise as a result of loss, damage, injury, delay or inconvenience occurring to the Client during travel. The Organizer shall have no liability for loss, theft of or damage to baggage or personal effects. Personal belongings lost or stolen while unattended by the client in public lounges or other public areas, whether on board a train, bus, or other mode of transportation, are not reimbursable. Losses due to ordinary wear and tear, and other acts of God are not reimbursable. The Organizer cannot accept responsibility for and in no event shall be liable for loss or damage of valuables or other articles left in or on facilities used by the Organizer such as hotels, huts, expedition vehicles, or any other mode of transportation.

6.3. The Client acknowledges that the cost of the Organizer retreats do not include insurance and that the Client has been advised to obtain separate coverage at an additional cost. When obtaining any insurance in relation to the retreat booking, the Client must ensure the insurer is aware of the type of travel and activities to be undertaken.

7. Fitness to Participate in the Retreat

7.1. You acknowledge that during your retreat with the Organizer, you participate voluntarily in any and all activities arranged, and insofar as is legally permissible, you surrender your right to any cause of action against the Organizer, their agents, contractor’s, employee’s and directors, arising from any loss or damage to any person or property that occurs during a Organizer retreat up to and including death.

7.2. If you are currently pregnant, or under medical or psychiatric supervision, you must provide a Doctor’s certificate confirming your fitness to travel and take part in the retreat as well as notifying the Organizer. An Organizer’s retreat is not suitable for those with complex psychiatric or deep emotional issues or those looking for counseling or therapy. Our team is also not medically trained and do not know your medical history so cannot offer any specific medical advice whilst at the retreat.

7.3 Although Contemplative Caregiver LLC employs therapists, this event is not therapy, nor is it a substitute for therapy. The retreat focuses on mindfulness and grief support, and participants should not expect therapeutic interventions or counseling services. If you require therapy, please seek appropriate professional assistance prior to attending the retreat.

7.4. All health issues including allergies MUST be disclosed on your client information forms.

7.5. Unless otherwise advertised, an Organizer retreat is not suitable for children under the age of 18 years or for people with physical disabilities that cannot take care or responsibility for themselves as we do not have the resources or expertise. There may be areas of the retreat that people with mobility issues may not be able to access.

7.6. If your health or fitness changes between the time of booking and the retreat start date, you must notify the Organizer by email (Andrew@ContemplativeCaregiver.com) of these changes before the trip starts.

7.7. If you are participating in Breathwork either live in person, streamed or recorded we recommend that you talk to your doctor before purchase if you have, or have a history of: cardiovascular disease, angina, heart attack, high blood pressure, glaucoma, retinal detachment, osteoporosis, recent injury or surgery, any condition for which you take regular meditations, history of panic attacks, psychosis, severe mental illness, Breathwork is also not recommended for pregnant women or breastfeeding women.

8. Photography

8.1. In the course of participation in a retreat, photos or video may be taken by participants, your retreat leader or guides. These images may be used in any Organizer materials, website, Facebook, etc., unless you specifically request that we not use any material in which your image is depicted. Otherwise, you agree to allow us a perpetual, royalty-free, worldwide, irrevocable license to use such images for publicity and promotional purposes.

8.2. The use of drones for photography, or any other purpose, is forbidden during your stay. Note that in addition, the use of drones may be illegal where the retreat is based.

8.3. All photographs, imagery and descriptions used by the Organizer online and within promotional documentation have been included with the intention of presenting a true and accurate reflection of your destination and the retreat. However, due to circumstances beyond our control, it is foreseeable that some destinations will change in appearance throughout the year and so may appear to have varied at the time of your stay eg. due to adverse weather. We may also make changes to our facilities. We will of course make every attempt to notify you in advance of your stay as to whether such instances have had any effect on the accommodation or its surroundings, however cannot be held liable in this regard.

9. Roommates

9.1. Where shared accommodation is specified on the retreat details web page, a retreat might require lodging with a roommate. The Organizer will do its best to match a client with the most appropriate roommate. There will be no refunds for complaints about roommates, and if any client cancels the Retreat because of a roommate, there will be no refund.

10. Retreat Itinerary Changes

10.1. The Organizer and its partners reserve the right to alter retreat programs and itineraries due to weather, road conditions or other circumstances. These programs may be changed or canceled at any moment to assure the safety of our clients and staff.

10.2. No responsibility is accepted for losses, expenses due to delays, changes of flights or other services because of strikes, accidents, sickness, damage, negligence, weather, war, changes in schedules or other similar causes.

10.3. The Organizer and its partners do not assume responsibility for accidents or deaths that can be traced to the participants’ negligence, acts of third parties or exterior circumstances such as weather, natural occurrences, ware or other similar causes.

11. Safety

11.1. The Organizer takes your safety and well-being seriously, which is why we book our retreats at a professional venue. However, you are ultimately responsible for your safety, which is why we ask all retreat participants to sign a liability waiver before departure. To avoid possibly dangerous situations, it is extremely important that you obey any rules and regulations imposed by the Organizer retreat leaders and/or Local Guides and instructions given by them.

11.2. The Organizer reserves the right to prohibit any Client from continuing on a retreat with no right of refund if, in our opinion, that Client’s actions pose a threat to the safety of them, others, or to the wildlife, or if that Client’s actions or behaviors are seriously jeopardizing the enjoyment of the retreat for others. The decision of the Organizer retreat leader or representative will at all times be final on all matters likely to affect the safety and well-being of the retreat.

11.3. All Clients must, at all times, strictly comply with the laws, customs, foreign exchange and drug regulations of all countries visited, and the Organizer will not accept responsibility or liability for any Client who contravenes any laws or other regulations of any country visited.

12. Complaints

12.1. Refunds are not made for any missed services, except for verifiable extenuating circumstances and then only at our discretion.

12.2. We make every effort to ensure that your booking runs smoothly but if you do have a problem during your stay, please inform the management at the retreat immediately who will endeavor to put things right.

12.3. If the problem cannot be resolved and you wish to complain further, you must send a formal written notice of your complaint to the Organizer within 7 working days of the end of your stay, giving your booking reference and all other relevant information.

12.4. Any price adjustment considered will be based on the actual price of the services involved and not on a per day basis. Adjustments will not be made for unused sightseeing trips or meals. Any payment made by us, either by way of refund or as the result of a successful claim, will be limited to, and not exceed, the sum paid by you for the booking minus any administration fees.

13. Data Protection

13.1. To ensure that retreats run smoothly, the Organizer need to use personal information (such as name, address, special needs, health conditions, dietary requirements etc.) provided by Clients to the Organizer, and also pass on such information to other providers or suppliers involved in the operation of the retreat (such as the caterers).

13.2. The Organizer will apply appropriate security measures to protect such personal data and will only pass on data that is applicable to outfitters or suppliers responsible for the retreat.

13.3. By completing the Organizer retreat Booking Form, Clients consent to this information being transferred as required.

14. Disclaimers

14.1 You use our services at your own risk and are subject to the following disclaimers. We are providing our services on an “as is” basis without any express or implied warranties, including, but not limited to, warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, title, non- infringement, and freedom from computer virus or other harmful code.

14.2 We do not warrant that any information provided by us is accurate, complete, or useful, that our services will be operational, error free, secure, or safe, or that our services will function without disruptions, delays, or imperfections.

14.3 We do not control, and are not responsible for, controlling how or when our users use our services or the features, services, and interfaces our services provide.

14.4 We are not responsible for and are not obligated to control the actions or information (including content) of our users or other third parties.

14.5 You release us, our subsidiaries, affiliates, and our and their directors, officers, employees, partners, and agents (together, the “Contemplative Caregiver LLC parties”) from any claim, complaint, cause of action, controversy, or dispute (together, “claim”) and damages, known and unknown, relating to, arising out of, or in any way connected with any such claim you have against any third parties.

14.6 You waive any rights you may have or law of any jurisdiction, which says that: a general release does not extend to claims which the creditor does not know or suspect to exist in his or her favor at the time of executing the release, which if known by him or her must have materially affected his or her settlement with the debtor.

15. Limitation of Liability

15.1 The Contemplative Caregiver LLC parties will not be liable to you for any lost profits or consequential, special, punitive, indirect, or incidental damages relating to, arising out of, or in any way in connection with our terms, us, or our services, even if the Contemplative Caregiver LLC parties have been advised of the possibility of such damages.

15.2 Our aggregate liability relating to, arising out of, or in any way in connection with our terms, us, or our services will not exceed the amount you have paid us in the past twelve months.

15.3 The foregoing disclaimer of certain damages and limitation of liability will apply to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law. The laws of some states or jurisdictions may not allow the exclusion or limitation of certain damages, so some or all of the exclusions and limitations set forth above may not apply to you. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in our terms, in such cases, the liability of the Contemplative Caregiver LLC parties will be limited to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law.

16. Indemnification

16.1 You agree to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the Contemplative Caregiver LLC Parties from and against all liabilities, damages, losses, and expenses of any kind (including reasonable legal fees and costs) relating to, arising out of, or in any way in connection with any of the following: (a) your access to or use of our Services, including information provided in connection therewith; (b) your breach or alleged breach of our Terms; or (c) any misrepresentation made by you.

16.2 You will cooperate as fully as required by us in the defense or settlement of any Claim.

17. Changes and Updating These Terms

17.1 We may make changes to these Terms (and any applicable Additional Terms) over time (for example, to reflect technical improvements and changes to Contemplative Caregiver LLC (for example, to address a security threat) or applicable laws and regulations (for example, to reflect applicable consumer rights)), so please come back and review these Terms regularly.

17.2 From time to time, we may update these Terms to clarify our practices or to reflect new or different practices (such as when we add new features), and Contemplative Caregiver LLC reserves the right in its sole discretion to modify and/or make changes to these Terms at any time

17.3 Where we consider that such changes are reasonably substantial, we will (where reasonably practicable) notify you via www.ContemplativeCaregiver.com, direct communication to you, on this page or the relevant page for the relevant additional terms or policy, or other means), prior to such changes becoming effective.

17.4 Modifications will become effective on the day they are posted unless stated otherwise.

17.5 By continuing to use Contemplative Caregiver LLC after we make any changes to these Terms, you are agreeing to be bound by the revised Terms.

Moreover, by agreeing to these terms & conditions, the Client agrees as follows:
“I am entirely responsible for my own personal safety, health, and mental, physical, emotional, and general well-being during and after the Retreat. I release the Retreat Organizers and their representatives, and any of their employees, assistants, and affiliates, of any liability for any injuries or damages mentally or physically I might incur during or after the Retreat. I understand that the Retreat is in no way psychotherapeutic or medical in nature. The Retreat is not involved with the treatment of disease of any kind and does in no way substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. Retreat organizers and other Retreat leaders and teachers do not treat, prescribe, or diagnose any illness, disease, or any other physical or mental disorder. Any personal advice or answers to my questions that are given to me on this Retreat are for entertainment purposes only. I release Retreat Organizers and their representatives and any of their employees, assistants, and affiliates from any injuries or damages mentally or physically that I might incur during or after this Retreat as a result of following any advice given to me on this Retreat. I am entirely responsible for my personal safety, health, and wellbeing during the Retreat. I hold the Retreat Organizers harmless for anything that might happen to me or to my possessions on this Retreat. I understand that no health insurance or travel insurance is provided by the Retreat organizers, and, if I wish to be insured, I have to do this myself. I have read and understand these Retreat Terms and Conditions.”