Fearless, Focused
and Free
A Transformational Playground for
Radically Authentic Women
DaySpring Retreat Center
March 23-28, 2026
Parrish, Florida
If you’re a radically authentic woman who’s ready to release confusion, rediscover your direction, and connect deeply with like-minded sisters, then join us for a transformational retreat where you’ll come away with clarity for your next chapter, soul-nourishing relationships, and a reignited sense of joy and play.
The morning sun casts gentle shadows as you stand at the base of the high ropes course, surrounded by the soothing scents of pine and fresh air. The Manatee River glistens nearby, its tranquil flow whispering promises of transformation. Here, amidst 97 acres of lush trees at the DaySprings Retreat Center, you feel the warmth of the sun on your skin, a comforting contrast to the cool morning air. Your heart beats in sync with the rhythm of nature, echoing the bird songs that fill the air.
As you begin your ascent, each step takes you higher, both physically and emotionally. Your palms are slick with sweat, your legs tremble with anticipation, and your breath comes in exhilarated bursts. Doubt creeps in, whispering familiar fears—"Can I do this?"—but the supportive cheers from your fellow participants rise around you, a chorus of encouragement and unwavering belief. You reach the top, and the world unfolds before you, a breathtaking vista that extends beyond the trees, beyond your fears.
Standing on the rope bridge, you embrace the exhilarating blend of empowerment and clarity. You realize that this is not just about crossing a bridge; it's about crossing into a new realm of possibility. The sense of freedom is intoxicating, and as you step onto solid ground, a profound connection with your newfound sisterhood envelops you. You are not alone. You are empowered, purposeful, ready to take on whatever comes next. This is your moment of triumph, your moment of transformation, and it feels like nothing you've ever experienced before.
Are you ready for transformation?
How heartwarming would it be to build genuine friendships with women who truly see and celebrate you?
So heartwarming! As you adventure, create, and connect through an intimate campfire circle, team ropes course challenges, and vulnerable storytelling, you’ll build bonds that outlast the retreat—so you never feel alone in your evolution again.
How liberating would it be to make bold changes—without fear—because you finally trust yourself?
So liberating! Through transformative NLP belief change tools and safe risk-taking experiences like tree-climbing, you’ll build unshakable self-trust so you can confidently make the changes your soul is calling for.
Wouldn’t it feel incredible to come home to yourself in a space that’s peaceful, playful, and real?
So incredible! On this retreat, you’ll experience sacred solo time, curated moments of joy, and spiritual grounding so you can return home deeply reconnected to who you are and what truly matters.
Wouldn’t it feel empowering to finally know exactly what your next step is—and feel inspired to take it?
So empowering! During our time together, through Neurological Levels Alignment and other NLP processes, you’ll gain crystal-clear insight into your next life chapter so you can move forward with grounded confidence and purpose.
The Venue
In your house-style accommodations, you’ll find communal living rooms with cozy couches, perfect for relaxed conversations. You’ll enjoy circling around the fire pit, where stories and laughter mingle under the stars, and relish in tranquil moments on outdoor lounge chairs by the pond. The patios, adorned with rocking chairs, will invite you to enjoy the fresh air and the sounds of nature. You’ll walk the tree canopy trail or pause on the picturesque pier, each step bringing you closer to the serenity and beauty of the surroundings. These spaces are designed to foster deep connections and quiet reflection, enhancing your retreat experience.
You will have the opportunity to explore the myriad of activities that the 97 acre property has to offer. Whether you’re seeking adventure on the low and high ropes course, soaring through the trees on a zip line, or paddling along the Manatee River in a canoe, each activity will invigorate your spirit. The labyrinth and small chapel will provide tranquil spaces for meditation and contemplation, while the swimming pool will invite you to refresh and unwind.
Accommodations
Your accommodations will be in furnished rustic houses with modern updates, blending comfort and charm. Each space features a refrigerator, microwave, water dispenser, and patio decks, providing you with all the essentials for a comfortable stay. Whether you choose a private suite with a private bath or a shared bedroom, you’ll find a welcoming place to rest. You’ll be amazed at the spacious, sprawling accommodations, and you’ll luxuriate in the comfy beds.
The Cuisine
Every meal will be a delightful journey of nourishment and connection. While we haven't specified particular local specialties, you can expect a variety of offerings that embrace diverse culinary styles, with an emphasis on health-conscious and satisfying meals. Our friendly staff will ensure the buffet is always stocked with delicious options, making each mealtime a pleasure.
For breakfast, you'll savor a traditional American spread, while lunch and dinner are served buffet style, featuring a salad bar, enticing entrees, and delectable desserts. Each meal is a chance to explore new flavors and enjoy hearty, satisfying dishes that cater to a range of tastes.
Rest assured, we will accommodate all dietary needs, whether you're vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, or have specific allergies. Our chefs are attentive and we will inform them of any dietary restrictions in advance, ensuring everyone feels welcome and well-nourished.
You'll enjoy dining inside the cozy lodge with large windows offering serene views of a quiet pond in the surrounding forest. The atmosphere is casual and invites you to socialize, whether you're inside or relishing the fresh air on the large screened-in porch. We're excited to share this relaxing, relationship-building culinary experience with you!
The Journey
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Today, you’ll embark on a journey of intention setting, bonding, and sharing, igniting a sense of playfulness and joy. As the altar ceremony unfolds, you’ll feel the warmth of being seen by other women, laying the foundation for deep connections with yourself and the sisterhood around you. This day, you’ll experience the first lift of possibility, setting the tone for a week of transformation and growth.
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You’ll start this day taking your intentions further with a labyrinth walk. You’ll have the opportunity to climb trees and navigate a low ropes course, tapping into your inner strength. You’ll begin to notice the fears holding you back, gaining clarity on what challenges are sabotaging your growth. This experience will inspire you to rise higher, toward the vision of who you’re becoming.
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Today, you’ll engage with transformational NLP tools to release fear and embrace confidence. You’ll feel the possibility of overcoming challenges and self-sabotage as you build a strong foundation. This day will invite you to explore the push and pull of life, discovering the power of steady ground and the balance needed to move forward confidently.
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The morning will begin with meditative canoeing on the Manatee River, followed by a powerful NLP planning process. You’ll recognize how to center yourself amidst life’s constant motion, focusing on the next steps and priorities to achieve your goals. This day will guide you to align with your truth, allowing you to stay centered even as the world spins around you.
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On this day, you’ll tackle a high ropes course, feeling the connection and support of your sisterhood. You’ll celebrate yourself and each other, understanding how to continue supporting one another beyond the retreat’s end. This shared experience will empower you to take bold steps, lean on support, and reach farther than you ever could alone.
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Today, you’ll participate in a closing ceremony that honors both your individual and collective journey. You’ll leave with a sense of centeredness, camaraderie, and clarity on the next steps toward your goals. This day will celebrate your breakthroughs, allowing you to glide forward with joy, trust, and unstoppable momentum.
What You’ll Walk Away With:
Crystal-clear clarity on your next life chapter—rooted in confidence, purpose, and alignment.
The courage and freedom to show up fully as yourself and live boldly without guilt, shame, or apology.
Deep, soul-nourishing sisterhood with women who truly see, celebrate, and support you long after the retreat ends.
Renewed energy and spaciousness with your nervous system reset so you return rested, vibrant, and whole.
Unshakable self-trust and confidence to make bold, joy-fueled decisions in your life, relationships, and future.
A profound reconnection to your true self, your creativity, and what truly matters most.
RAWtreat Bonuses:
A 60 Minute Private Coaching Call with Dawn (when you pay in FULL upon registering)
TWO pre-retreat preparation and information calls
A post-retreat community follow-up call
Access to the RAWtreat community
Other SURPRISE gifts!!
Location
DaySpring Retreat Center, nestled in Parrish, Florida, USA, offers a serene escape on 97 acres of protected "Old Florida" land. Here, the lush forest and the gentle flow of the Manatee River create a peaceful and restorative atmosphere, inviting you to unwind and reconnect with nature. The Retreat Center's setting on the banks of the river, which opens to Tampa Bay, provides a unique backdrop for reflection and rejuvenation.
As your retreat concludes, you’ll carry with you a sense of refreshment, transformation, and deep connection. DaySpring Retreat Center offers a unique blend of natural beauty and thoughtful spaces, ensuring a memorable and impactful experience.
What’s Included:
Five transformational days together in a serene space
Two Pre-trip community calls
A post-trip follow-up call
Access to the RAWtreat Community
Five nights at the DaySpring Retreat Center in Parrish, FL
Five bountiful breakfasts
Five luscious lunches
Five delightful dinners
Low & High Ropes Course, Zip Line and Tree Climbing with Certified Instructors
Canoeing on the Manatee River
Free On-site parking
Private or Shared Bedrooms available
Exposure to powerful Neurolinguistic Programming Processes
What’s NOT Included:
Your round-trip airfare from home (flight/airport info below)
Transportation to/from the airport (there are 3 to choose from)
Personal, medical or trip cancellation insurance (recommended!)
Airports: DaySpring is a…
32 minute drive from Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (American, Delta, Frontier, Jet Blue, Southwest, and United)
43 minute drive from St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (Allegiant, Sun Country)
50 minute drive from Tampa International Airport (Alaska, American, Breeze, Delta, Frontier, Jet Blue, Southwest, Spirit, United and others)
** Please, plan to arrive at the retreat center BY 4pm on Monday, the 23rd and leave the retreat center AFTER 1pm on Saturday, the 28th. You can coordinate ride-sharing with other retreat-goers on the pre-trip prep calls.
Your RAWtreat facilitator
I'm Dawn Bower, originally from the heartland of Omaha, Nebraska, where the warmth of community and the art of storytelling are woven into the very fabric of life. Growing up amid the genuine hospitality and openness of the Midwest, I learned early on the power of connection and the magic of turning strangers into family. My journey, however, wasn't always smooth. Though, I spent eight years in Girl Scouts, which instilled in me a deep appreciation for sisterhood, ironically, I often found myself on the fringes, struggling to connect with female peers and facing the sting of bullying.
The turning point came during the challenging period of my first marriage ending. I felt adrift until I was embraced by a remarkable group of women who redefined my understanding of friendship and support. Through their encouragement, I discovered the profound strength that comes from being part of a sisterhood where authenticity and boldness are celebrated. This realization transformed my life, teaching me that the greatest achievements often require the collective strength of others.
Today, as a Mental Health Coach certified in Neurolinguistic Programming and a Professional Certified Coach with the International Coaching Federation, I channel my experiences into guiding women towards transformation. My retreats are a culmination of my passions and skills, blending meditation, mindfulness, experiential challenges, and the joy of creativity. I believe in the power of play, vulnerability, and deep, intentional conversations to spark profound inner change.
Nestled in a retreat center surrounded by nature, with access to a ropes course, zip line, and the serene Manatee River, my retreats offer a sanctuary away from the distractions of daily life. Here, participants can escape, reflect, and embrace the transformative power of nature. I aim to help them shed fears and doubts, stepping into a newfound confidence and clarity.
As the Dalai Lama said, "The world will be saved by the Western woman." I believe this wholeheartedly. I invite you to join me on this journey of empowerment and transformation. Do you give yourself permission to have this experience? I encourage you to #bethejoy #bethelove #bethelight
Frequently Asked Questions
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If your heart is racing and your gut has butterflies after reading this entire webpage, then the answer is YES! Something is calling to you. Answer the call. This retreat is ABSOLUTELY for YOU! The only reason you clicked this FAQ is because your ego mind is trying to talk your heart and your gut out of it, using the tactic of fear. You know what needs to be done.
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For your convenience, we offer payment plans via AfterPay at checkout! This can work for almost ANYONE’s budget! If you need a custom payment plan, please reach out at support@therawtreat.com. If you TRULY do not have the funds for this, please do not register. Save your money for next year’s retreat!!
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It’s a whole week! I get it! But a weekend just isn’t enough time to do what is yearning to be done. You NEED this break away from your current status quo. You need enough time to reset your nervous system and remember what lights you up. This might end up being the best decision you made all year. I’ll tell you this: once you make the decision, all your logistics will fall into place. You will figure out your time off from work, if you work. You will figure out childcare for your kids, if you have kids. You will find a pet-sitter, if you have pets.
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A more specific itinerary will be provided as we get closer to the retreat dates. For now, just plan to arrive at the DaySpring Retreat Center by 4pm on Monday, March 23rd to check-in and plan to leave the Retreat Center after 1pm on Saturday, March 28th. Pay attention to the travel time to your airport and schedule your flights accordingly. I don’t want you to miss any little thing!!
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Five transformational days together in a serene space, Two Pre-trip community calls, A post-trip follow-up call, Access to the RAWtreat Community, Five nights at the DaySpring Retreat Center in Parrish, FL, Five bountiful breakfasts, Five luscious lunches, Five delightful dinners, Low & High Ropes Course, Zip Line and Tree Climbing with Certified Instructors, Canoeing on the Manatee River, On-site parking, and Private or Shared Bedrooms.
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If you want a specific roommate, please write her name in the box provided on the registration page. If you are willing to room with anyone available, just click the option for a shared bedroom when you register.
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No kids, husbands or boyfriends are allowed. This retreat is for women only! If you have a wife or girlfriend (or girlfriends), of course they can come!! Just know that this retreat is about your personal journey and transformation, so I will let YOU decide whether or not it’s a good idea to have your female significant other with you– because perhaps you need a week away!
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You will have access to the internet, but I will strongly encourage you to keep your phones away, out of sight or off during our time together. We will find time to capture photo memories. This is an opportunity to break away from the distraction that technology brings. That said, you will be able to stay connected with family, etc, if needed.
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Everything is optional AND I sure hope you are willing to challenge yourself to attempt everything we do. After all, isn’t that why you’re coming? Some of the activities may feel scary- that’s on purpose! If you can overcome THESE fears, imagine how unstoppable you will feel in the rest of your life! If you have physical limitations, there will always be accommodations offered. Please, understand your own abilities and don’t limit yourself. If you are concerned about anything specifically, don’t hesitate to email Dawn at support@therawtreat.com.
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DaySpring is a…
32 minute drive from Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (American, Delta, Frontier, Jet Blue, Southwest, and United)
43 minute drive from St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (Allegiant, Sun Country)
50 minute drive from Tampa International Airport (Alaska, American, Breeze, Delta, Frontier, Jet Blue, Southwest, Spirit, United and others)
** Please, plan to arrive at the retreat center BY 4pm on Monday, the 23rd and leave the retreat center AFTER 1pm on Saturday, the 28th. You can coordinate ride-sharing with other retreat-goers on the pre-trip prep calls.
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No. The retreat center does not offer that. I recommend taking a taxi, Uber or Lyft and connecting with other retreat participants on the pre-trip calls to coordinate ride sharing.
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Yes, the DaySpring Retreat Center will accommodate most dietary restrictions. This is a quote directly from DaySpring: “We can accommodate dietary restrictions such as vegan/vegetarian, peanut/tree nut allergies, lactose/dairy intolerance and gluten free. We cannot accommodate diets such as Keto. If someone has a specific food allergy, please let us know and we will accommodate as best we can. Most other restrictions, such as diabetic restrictions, are on a self-monitoring basis.”
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In March in this part of Florida there are about 12 hours of daylight. Sunrise is at approximately 7:15am and sunset is at approximately 7:30pm. The average temperature is 61-74 degrees Fahrenheit with 72% humidity. While March is NOT in the rainy season (June-September), there is always a small possibility of rain. The average is 3.63 inches of rain in the month of March.
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Pack comfy clothes for easy movement and lounging; athletic clothes and tennis shoes for the ropes course, zip line and tree climbing challenges; and PJs! You may want to bring a light jacket or sweater for chilly weather and inside air conditioning. You may also want to pack bug spray, sunscreen, a flashlight, swimsuit, umbrella/parasol, and a journal/notepad and your favorite pens. Pack toiletries.
No need to pack anything fancy! But you MAY want to dress up in your favorite fun costume for our final night celebration- so bring anything that lights you up for that!
You will NOT need bedding, pillows or towels; they are all provided.
Still have a question?
Email Dawn at support@therawtreat.com