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Keys to an Abundant, Balanced, and Graceful Life: 
A Transformative 3-Day Retreat in Florence, Italy


2025 Dates: Friday, June 13 - Sunday, June 15

This intimate retreat, nestled in the heart of Florence amidst the rolling Tuscan hills, will offer a rare opportunity to blend ancient wisdom with modern wellness. We will delve deep into the profound connection between spirit, mind, and body—exploring how these elements intertwine to create holistic well-being. 

Our transformative experience will be led by Donnie Yance – Former 3rd Order Franciscan Monk, Master Herbalist, Certified Nutritionist, and founder of Mederi Center and Natura Health Products, along with Barbara Slaine, Holistic Nutritionist, Master Reiki Practitioner, founder of the Liphe Balance Center, and part-time Florence resident. 

Our retreat will be a unique journey through sacred spaces and wellness practices, guiding you towards a more vibrant, conscious, and graceful life.

Our Itinerary

Day 1: Sacred Pilgrimage to La Verna Sanctuary
 9 am - 8 pm

  • Experience the spiritual energy where Saint Francis received the stigmata
  • Enjoy a guided hike through ancient forests, where we'll explore the healing power of nature
  • Connect with divine peace in this powerful sacred space
  • Includes a stop in Stia for a locally sourced, organic lunch

Day 2: Wellness & Wisdom at a Tuscan Villa
10 am - 4 pm

  • Intimate discussions on holistic health and longevity
  • Personal Q&A session with Donnie Yance where you can ask your most pressing questions on health and healing
  • Explore the integration of natural healing and modern medicine

Day 3: Integration and Transformation
10 am - 7 pm

  • Take a deep dive into life’s profound questions
  • Experience the healing power of nature and xeno-hormesis
  • Connect with like-minded individuals on their wellness journeys
  • Enjoy a group dinner at a specially curated restaurant in Florence

Additional Retreat Details

The retreat will be held at a private villa just 10 minutes outside of Florence. Group transportation to and from La Verna will be provided, along with locally sourced, organic lunches, snacks and beverages, plus dinner at a restaurant in Florence at the end of our retreat.

Limited to just 12 participants to foster personal attention and meaningful connections.

What's included:

  • Van transportation provided on Day 1 from Florence to La Verna and back to Florence
  • Locally sourced daily lunches include a meal at a restaurant in the village of Stia, on the way to La Verna
  • Healing foods and refreshments provided daily
  • Dinner at a restaurant in the heart of Florence at the end of Day 3

Not included:

  • Flights: We recommend flying in and out of Roma Fiumicino (FCO), then taking the high-speed train to Florence. Retreat starts at 10 am on Friday, June 13 and ends after dinner in Florence on Sunday, June 15.
  • Train Transportation: High speed train travel from Rome to Florence can be booked through ItaliaRail. Plan on at least 1.5 hours in transit.
  • Other Transportation: We are providing van transportation on Day 1 from Florence to La Verna and back to Florence. Participants are responsible for all other transportation.
  • Accommodations: For help finding accommodations near the villa in Florence where our group sessions will be held on Day 2 & 3, please contact Barbara Slaine at 203-912-2791 or liphebalance@gmail.com. You can also find local accommodations on travel sites like VRBO and AirBnB. Contact Barbara for more information on villa location where activities will be held on Day 2 & Day 3.
  • Travel Insurance: We highly recommend that you purchase travel insurance: https://www.insuremytrip.com/

Themes We'll Explore Together

  • The interconnection of mind, body, and spirit in holistic health
  • Natural medicine and divine healing through herbs and nature
  • Practical wisdom for graceful aging and longevity
  • Network medicine and whole-system approaches to health
  • Forgiveness, transformation, and spiritual growth
  • The unity of heaven and earth in healing practices

Through intimate discussions, practical teachings, and experiential learning, you'll gain deep insights into these topics while developing tools for a more balanced, conscious, and vibrant life.

The total cost for this 3-day retreat is $1,500 per person.

Please note, participants will be responsible for booking their flights, train travel, transportation (except to La Verna on Day 1), and local accommodations.

Cancellation Policy

Read the Mederi Center Retreats Cancellation Policy here >>

All payments final.

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