In May 2024, I came across an incredible opportunity: a tropical wellness retreat in Panama hosted at the stunning Bird Island Bungalows. The retreat was organized by OhmGrown Yoga, Barefoot Adventure Experiences, and Viva Adventures—three inspiring, women-owned businesses focused on wellness, adventure, and community.


When I invited friends to join, their biggest hesitation was the lack of air conditioning at the retreat location. As someone who grew up attending summer sleepaway camps and who enjoys backpacking as an adult, I figured, “How hot can Panama really be in April?” It wasn’t until a few weeks before the trip that I really considered what that might feel like! The weather was in the high 80s-90s!!


Despite the heat, the experience was absolutely unforgettable. While I didn’t travel with any friends this time, I met an incredible group of new people who made the journey even more special. The retreat was filled with daily yoga sessions, island adventures, and deep connections with like-minded travelers. Whether we were exploring the beaches, sharing meals, or relaxing in hammocks under the palm trees, every moment was magic.


Below are some of my favorite images from the trip. This Panama retreat was everything I hoped it would be—transformative, peaceful, and energizing. I’m already looking forward to the next one with these amazing women.

A black and tan dog rests on a wooden porch deck with rustic furniture and tropical greenery in the background.
A person wearing sunglasses and an orange life vest smiles while sitting on a boat in bright sunlight.
Two friends wearing protective life jackets and sun hats smile while enjoying a day out on the water.
Colorful tourist boats docked at a waterfront pier on a sunny day with seagulls flying overhead.
A red boat filled with passengers wearing life jackets cruises along a waterfront with a covered canopy.
Person wearing an orange life vest and sun hat sits on a boat near the water with a red buoy visible.
Palm tree covered tropical island with lush vegetation rising from bright blue waters on a cloudy day.
Rustic wooden boathouse built over water with a deck and surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.
A group of fitness enthusiasts pose together in workout attire during a studio fitness class.
Delicate white flower blooms among tropical foliage and pink blossoms with palm fronds in the background.
Lush tropical vegetation with eucalyptus trees and palm fronds against a blue sky in a natural setting.
Black tropical bird perched on a tree branch among palm fronds and green leaves against a cloudy sky.
Woman in gray tank top laughing and smiling under a palm tree at a tropical destination.
Lush tropical foliage with palm fronds and leafy branches against cloudy sky.
Tourists snorkeling and floating in clear tropical waters with coral reefs visible beneath the surface.