Kimberly & Jason Ocana - "Planting New Roots" - Firefighter & Corporate Exec start Plant Medicine Retreat Center

The devastating 2022 hurricane that destroyed their Florida home was the last straw in a chain of traumas for Jason and Kimberly Ocana. A paramedic/firefighter for nearly 15 years, Jason loved being of service, but the work's constant physical and emotional challenges and the added rigors of being a first responder during COVID were taking a serious toll on his body and soul. After 17 years in corporate leadership, Kimberly had “achieved personal success.” But, in reality, she felt totally burnt out physically and emotionally, suffering chronic sickness, anxiety, and depression. On top of all this, both their young children faced major health issues. In this shared state of crisis, two weeks after the loss of their home, Kimberly asked Jason a simple but profound question, “What can we do to make you happy?” In a moment of clarity and courage, he answered, “move to Costa Rica,” a place he loved and a return to tranquility and deep nature. She was more than ready to make the pivot together. Thus was born Ananda Lodge Costa Rica, a plant medicine retreat center birthed in their collective commitment to save their own lives and make a positive impact in the world. From this point forward they would focus on healing trauma and helping others find their way to wholeness and peace. 

Ananda operates on the understanding that each individual, regardless of their background, has encountered various forms of trauma, whether big or small. This work is deeply personal. Kimberly survived sexual abuse while Jason carries the weight that only those on the front lines can know. Together, they made a choice to heal and transform themselves and others with the support of sacred plant medicine in a totally beautiful, safe, intimate and healing environment. Jason is particularly drawn to providing support for first-responders, veterans, healthcare workers and others who have dedicated their lives to serving others; Ananda is one of the few retreat centers with programs dedicates to these heroes. Kimberly knows the toll sexual abuse takes on the body and spirit and has created retreats for women that address these specific issues and more. 

One of their 2025 retreat guests said it best, "If you’re feeling the call to do real inner work, to shed what’s not yours, and to reconnect with who you really are ... Ananda is where you want to be."

https://anandalodgecr.com/

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