only 4 spots remaining!
The Sahara Soul Awakening Retreat:
A Journey into Stillness, Simplicity, and Self-Discovery
A 7-Day Transformational
Mystical Journey of Healing & Renewal
in the Heart of Morocco
Designed for Service-Based Professionals
September 27th - October 3rd, 2025
Merzouga, Morocco
Imagine...
Your true self is waiting for you in stillness and serenity.
Somewhere in the sands of the vast Sahara Desert, far away from any hustle and bustle, you find yourself in a desert oasis.
Orange dunes rise to meet an endless blue sky, a gentle breeze rustles through your hair. You feel the sun’s warmth in the sand beneath your feet. You see the clouds’ reflection on the surface of the water, and you’re reminded that all things are connected. As above, so below. You take a breath. You have come home… back to yourself, back to your center, once again connected to your true essence.
Are You Ready to Release the Weight of the World and Step into the Truth of Who You Are?
You’re struggling to keep it all together.
Despite all your accomplishments and success, you feel stuck, disconnected, and burnt out. And it’s not just run-of-the-mill burn out; it’s burn out on a soul level.
You’re beyond tired of carrying the weight of life’s challenges and you feel like you’ve lost your joy and purpose.
You try to remind yourself why you do what you do each day, but your original passion feels so far away, you can barely remember it.
Despite your efforts to push through—whether through self-help, doubling down and overworking, or spiritually seeking outside yourself—you haven’t found the breakthrough you long for.
You’re afraid that if something doesn’t change soon, you’re going to lose your connection to yourself altogether.
You need to reignite your desire and passion for life by reclaiming yourself.
It’s time to put yourself first, and take back your energy and your focus in order to replenish yourself on a soul level.
Only then will your service be fulfilling rather than draining.
Only then will you be able to embrace new possibilities and create new connections with yourself, others and the world around you.
Recognize the opportunity today holds
You know your soul needs a reset.
Deep down, you're craving an experience that propels you forward.
One that ensures who you are when you leave will not be who you are when you return.
One that ensures you will evolve and expand, reclaim the parts of yourself you’ve become disconnected from, and recharge yourself on all levels—body, mind, heart and soul.
Where you place your attention, your energy follows.
The vastness of the desert and the richness of the culture create the space for you to turn inward—back to your center, your values, and what truly matters.
As you reconnect with your core self, you’ll begin making choices from a more grounded, intentional place.
No more going through the motions
You’ll gain clarity about why you do what you do, and your actions will become more deliberate.
Instead of constantly course-correcting, you’ll move with focus and calm, in greater alignment.
Problems that seemed insurmountable and kept you stuck will become less daunting. Solutions will come into view.
Now is the perfect time
To prioritize your own well-being without guilt or excuses, and give yourself permission to truly take care of yourself, to step into stillness, and to reconnect YOU with your soul’s purpose.
This retreat experience promises that you wilL:
Return back home with a clear purpose and action plan to re-ignite your passion, personally and professionally
Transform from exhausted service provider to purpose-driven practitioner, feeling rejuvenated in your mind, body, and soul with practical strategies to reconnect yourself that you can use immediately, any time you need
Rediscover your professional identity and walk away with a tangible roadmap to renewal for making aligned decisions that honor your core values and authentic path
Break free from the bind of overworking (over-giving) and return with a blueprint for sustainable inspiration in your day-to-day life in a way that lights you up
This journey isn’t just about healing—it’s about transformation. You’ll return home with a fresh perspective, a full heart, and a renewed capacity to love yourself, others, and the world around you
Be gentle with yourself
You feel like life has worn you down. You’ve given all you have— to others, your work, your family, the endless demands of a world that never stops or slows down—and now, you’re left feeling empty, disconnected, and without direction.
You’ve tried everything you can think of: reading all the self-help books, listening to the motivational podcasts, meditating, positive affirmations, and even retreating into distractions to fill the void.
Nothing seems to touch the bone-deep weariness at your core or reignite the spark you once had for your life and purpose.
Yet, beneath the exhaustion and self-doubt, a part of you whispers: There must be something more.
This soul awakening retreat is for those of you who know there’s a light within you still waiting to be uncovered, who long to step out of survival mode and remember what it feels like to truly live.
The desert doesn’t erase the challenges of life—it transforms how you experience them
While this experience won't take away all your life's struggles, it will shift your perspective and change the way you move through them.
You’ll learn to see the beauty in the simplicity and the strength within yourself.
The mystical energy of the desert dissolves stress and unveils a newfound clarity in navigating life’s demands.
As you immerse yourself in the rhythm of Moroccan culture, you'll slow down, reconnect, and reverse the signs of burnout—embracing the simplicity and wisdom of a more intentional way of life.
Let the stillness and spaciousness of the desert reshape your relationship with service—so you return home with renewed resilience and a revitalized plan to keep your inspiration alive long after the retreat ends.
Surrendering to Morocco’s sacred landscapes allows you to release the bone-weary heaviness of burnout and step into renewed clarity, firm boundaries, and a deeper connection to your true self.
6 spots available.
Only 4 spots remain.
How Your transformation happens:
01 time & space … for you
Plenty of time on your own to think, reflect, feel and connect with yourself and the natural environment. Think of this as nourishment for your soul.
02 powerful groups
Gathering together as a small group—space is limited to 6 participants—for deep, intimate conversations, guided meditations, amazing meals, and sacred bonding— all of which have the ability to crack you open and provide deeper insight than you've likely experienced before.
03 cultural immersion
Interactive and fun immersive activities in the culture that take you out of your brain, get you living in the moment, and experiencing things you've never done before and may never encounter again.
04 lasting impact
The life-changing moments that only happen on retreats are the ones that truly transform you—and the changes you experience won’t fade when you return home—they will integrate into your being, shifting you from the person who arrived into the person you are becoming. You will leave Morocco not only renewed but forever changed.
this retreat is for you if you are a service-based professional:
✹ Counselor, Therapist, or Social Worker
✹ Nurse, Doctor, PA, PT, Dentist, or Other Medical Professional
✹ Integrative Health Professional, Chiropractor or Other Holistic Health Practitioner
✹ Attorney, Law Guardian, Judge, or Other Legal Professional
✹ Accountant, CPA, or Financial Planner
✹ Teacher, Professor, or Educator
✹ Entrepreneur or Service-Based Business Owner
✹ Leader in Human Resources, Non-Profit or Charitable Organizations
✹ Coach, Mentor or Guide
✹ Massage Therapist, Body Worker, Reiki, Biofeedback, or Other Body Practitioner
✹ Energy Healer, Intuitive Healer, or Spiritual Healer
You’ve done the traditional methods of self-care and professional development, which are valuable, but you have a growing desire for experiences beyond the conventional same old, same old—experiences that offer depth, renewal, and a connection to something greater.
You just know there’s something more.
book now — only 4 spots remaining!
A few years ago I was in exactly the same place you are now. I was a practicing psychotherapist, running a successful counseling center, and I had a stable income, home life, and routine. Things on the surface appeared fine. But underneath, I was pretty miserable.
I was so sick and tired of doing the same thing every day—using the same methods to help my clients—I felt like I was on rinse and repeat. I was bored. I knew I couldn’t keep going like that, it was draining my soul.
In 2023, I took a week-long trip to Morocco with a friend. We hired Ismail as our guide and he introduced me to the incredible transformative powers of the Sahara Desert.
As a result of that trip, my life completely changed. It’s unrecognizable from what it was. In many ways, I am unrecognizable from who I was.
I’ve spent the last couple years walking myself through a process of completely renovating my life, personally, professionally and spiritually. I’ve rediscovered my passion as a healer, I’m more connected than ever to my purpose, and I’m overall much happier with myself and my life.
I've also been spending more time in Morocco recently, getting to know the desert topography, its people, and its customs better. The more time I spend there, the more I want to go back. The simplicity, openness, and genuine appreciation for life that the people exhibit is unlike anything I've experienced in Western culture. This corner of the world has had a profound impact on my body, my heart, and my soul, and it's why I am so passionate about providing others with the opportunity to experience it too.
Now, it’s my complete joy and honor to help YOU reconnect to your mission and purpose by sharing the magic of the Sahara Desert with you.
Hi, I'm Lesley
The Dunes of Erg Chebbi await you
The desert is a sacred mirror
The Sahara is more than a destination—it’s a mirror for the soul. Its endless dunes and vast silence strip away distractions, offering a dramatic shift in perspective. The simplicity of nomadic life reminds us of life’s essentials: connection, gratitude, and presence.
In this stillness, you’ll find the space to reconnect with yourself and rediscover the joy that’s always been within you.
Experience the Magic of the Sahara
A gift beyond words
This retreat transcends typical professional development—it's a direct pathway to realignment with your highest calling. The Sahara doesn't just inspire; it demands honesty. In this ancient landscape, what no longer serves your purpose naturally falls away, while your authentic professional voice emerges with unexpected clarity.
Between your arrival and departure days, you'll be immersed in experiences that professionals rarely access: navigating the vast dunes at sunrise when insights naturally surface; participating in nomadic traditions that reveal simpler ways to approach complex problems; and engaging in guided practices specifically designed to reconnect service providers with their original purpose.
The desert strips away the professional facade, revealing the deeper truth. Therapists rediscover why they entered the healing profession. Coaches remember the core wisdom they've always possessed but perhaps stopped accessing. Service-based professionals recognize indications of burnout before they take hold. Those of you who are entrepreneurs experience moments of pure energetic inspiration and creativity.
You won't just return inspired—you'll return transformed, with specific practices to maintain the desert's clarity amidst the noise of daily professional demands. This isn't about escaping your work; it's about returning to it with renewed purpose and practical tools for sustainable passion.
our Journey Together
DAY ONE - casablanca
Pick up from the airport in the morning
Initial group meeting & introductions
Visit to the Hassan II Mosque
DAY Two - FES
Scenic drive from Casablanca to Fes
Spiritually-focused tour of the ancient medina
Stay in a beautiful riad and sample authentic traditional Moroccan meals
DAY Three - midelt
Scenic drive through the stunning panoramas of the Middle Atlas Mtns
Option for a traditional hammam or massage at our luxury accommodations
Spend the night tucked in the foothills of snow-capped mountains
DAY four - merzouga
Visit the traditional souk in Rissani and enjoy lunch with a local family
Sunset camel ride through the Erg Chebbi dunes to luxury desert camp
Traditional Gnaoua music and dancing music around a campfire under the starlit sky
DAY five - merzouga
Watch the sunrise over the dunes
Visit a stunning desert oasis to enjoy a traditional picnic lunch
Group meditation, followed by free time to explore on your own
DAY six - Merzouga
Cooking class with locals at family-owned restaurant
ATV ride back to camp through the golden dunes
Final desert sunset, dinner and drum circle with cleansing fire ritual
DAY seven - return
Transfer to Errachidia airport for your return flight to Casablanca or Marrakech (included)
In Morocco, we don’t say goodbye, we say see you next time!
If you'd like to extend your trip, we can assist you with travel arrangements
daily
The daily highlights are listed above. Each day will include morning and evening group gatherings and shared meals, as well as free time on your own to reflect, explore, journal, meditate, integrate, relax, have tea and just BE
Where You Will Stay
merzouga
Moonlight desert camp
https://www.moonlightdesertcamp.com
*Accommodations are subject to change based on availability. all efforts will be made to find Comparable Alternatives if Necessary.
what's included:
Pick up and drop off at the airport upon arrival and departure
All transportation within Morocco, including your flight from Errachidia back to Casablanca or Marrakech
3 nights’ accommodations (rooms with private baths) at beautiful boutique hotels or riads in Casablanca, Fes, and Midelt — shared rooms are an option, if desired
3 nights’ accommodations (rooms with private baths) at a luxury desert camp— shared tents are an option, if desired
All meals (breakfast, lunches and dinners)
All retreat activities, ceremonies, materials & gifts
Friendship, community & connection
Assistance with travel arrangements and tours if you wish to extend your stay
what's NOT included:
Transportation to/from Morocco
Gifts or other purchases
Tips
Alcoholic beverages
Extended stay travel and accommodations
Ok, how can i claim one of the remaining spots?
$8497
Want to bring a friend?
shared room discount available
bonuses
A pre-retreat private 1:1 session with Lesley
($500 value)
A pre-retreat group Q & A call with Lesley & Ismail
($500 value)
A mini-coaching package
(3 sessions) with Lesley
after the retreat
($1500 value)
That's $2500 in bonuses!
about your guides
Lesley & Ismail
Join me, Lesley, a holistic trauma therapist and certified life coach, and Ismail, my co-leader and native Berber expert guide, for a 7-day retreat in the Sahara Desert that will transform your life. This is your invitation to step away from all the noise and chaos and create the calm, clarity, and connection necessary to reignite your passion for your work and your life, and realign you to your soul’s purpose.
retreat leader
Lesley Martin
Lesley is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, National Certified Counselor, Certified Life Coach, and a highly trained trauma therapist with over 15 years of experience in holistic mental health and wellness. Trained in EMDR, parts work, and the Neuroscience of Coaching, she masterfully integrates evidence-based therapeutic techniques with intuitive and spiritual practices. Lesley’s unique approach incorporates her clairvoyant gifts, cultural socialization insights, and a deep understanding of higher dimensional realities, such as the Akashic Records, to create transformative healing experiences for her clients.
Her diverse background spans contemplative world religions, Buddhist philosophy, and various mindfulness and somatic practices. She has studied multiple languages including French, Spanish, Hebrew, and Arabic, and has lived in both the US and abroad. Lesley brings a rich multicultural lens to her work, drawing from both her own personal healing path, as well as the life-changing impacts of international travel.
Having deeply invested in her own soul’s education and healing, Lesley is passionate about empowering others in their own journeys to wholeness. Her steadfast relaxed presence, her openness, and her deep empathy create a sense of calm and safety for her clients, gently guiding them to heal, deepen their inner connection, and thrive. She fully embodies the transformative path she now guides others to walk.
retreat co-leader
ismail boughrara
Ismail is one of the owners of Morocco Wonders Tour, the tour company he founded in 2018 with his brothers. Growing up in a nomadic Berber family in the Sahara Desert, Ismail has a deep love and respect for the natural environment, its people, and its culture. The scope of his knowledge and passion for his beloved Morocco are immediately apparent. He has formally studied both languages and tourism. Ismail has been actively working in the tourism industry since his teenage years, initially trekking camels and laboring in the desert camps, then working as a tour guide establishing connections and leading trips all throughout Morocco.
From there he went on to become a tour operator and business owner himself, combining his historical and cultural expertise with his considerable interpersonal skills. Ismail knows firsthand the dramatic power of travel as a catalyst for growth and transformation. He delights in sharing the incredible beauty and rich complexity of Morocco’s landscape and culture with his guests, ensuring they have an unforgettable experience.
Ismail speaks five languages, including fluent English. He has an easy smile and an openness about him that immediately puts one at ease. In his free time Ismail enjoys exploring outside in nature, cooking, playing soccer, drumming, and riding his motorcycle.
kind words from our clients
“Being in nature, with a guide and a group of fellow spiritual seekers, was the best setting possible for the spiritual transformation I experienced. The beauty and power of nature helped me to connect with myself, while also expanding my consciousness beyond the self-absorbed thought patterns that kept me stuck. On top of that, the collective energy of the group and guidance from Lesley were like amplifiers that pushed me further than I've been able to go before on my own.
Lesley is an exceptional guide for spiritual transformation and growth. Her presence and tone are calming, and her method for guiding participants along their journey is powerful and effective. She is a deeply intuitive, compassionate, and experienced guide who can lead seekers along their path. Anyone ready to make a spiritual shift will find the tools, guidance, and support to do so from Lesley.”
—NatalieGov't Affairs Mgr
“Lesley is a Master at bringing your dreams into reality. Being a Type-A high achiever, I had the belief that “I had to do it all” and “be great at everything that I do.” This only caused me to feel more stress instead of coming from a creative, fun state of mind. I knew there had to be a different way to get the results I wanted, without burning myself out and doing everything on my own. With Lesley, I was able to get all my needs met in one place.
Since working with her, I have gained the courage and confidence to set boundaries, which has given me a renewed sense of power and excitement for what is to come. She also made me feel safe enough to look at my fears and what's really driving my day-to-day decisions. I have so much more energy and joy which had been missing for a long time. Lesley really helped me change my mindset around what is possible for me. I highly recommend her. She will show you a brand new way of being!”
—AliciaPsychospiritual Coach
“We had an absolutely incredible experience exploring Morocco on a private tour that was 100% customized to what we wanted to do. Our guide Ismail was wonderful and made our trip unforgettable!! We got to do so many cool things that only a local would know about! Ismail was so friendly and personable… he is so knowledgeable and we had so many interesting conversations on a huge range of topics. We felt very safe the entire time. This experience provided a lifetime of memories and an awesome new friend too! Thank you Ismail!!”
—Mal
“Words can't express how wonderful our trip to Morocco was. Our guide made every moment entertaining and educational with his care and humor, and by sharing his enormous knowledge of and passion for his home nation. We can't wait to return for more of this country's enchantment; its beauty and its people have completely enchanted us. We chose this firm not only because of Ismail's exceptional customer service, but also because it is a family-owned business. We definitely recommend.”
—Mary
An Invitation to Transformation
This is your moment
Your soul has been whispering to you… calling you back to yourself, to a life filled with joy, connection, and purpose.
Join us for this 7-day retreat experience in the Sahara Desert, where stillness meets simplicity, and transformation is inevitable.
This is more than a retreat.
It’s a homecoming.
Spaces are limited to 6 people for this intimate, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
If you’re ready to release the weight of the world and reclaim your joy, purpose, and passion for life, the desert is waiting for you.
Take the first step toward your initiation.
Faq
What happens on a retreat?
This retreat is more about being than doing. It’s a chance for you to step away from your daily routine and demands and focus on yourself in a supportive and peaceful environment. Our retreat experience is unique, blending a mix of group activities and ceremonies, guided meditations, personal reflection time, and cultural experiences.
Everything is tailored to create a safe space for you to reset, connect and grow, leaving you feeling renewed, peaceful, and empowered.
How do I know if I am a good fit for this retreat?
This retreat is designed for service-based professionals—therapists, coaches, healthcare workers, educators, and others—who dedicate themselves to serving others but feel the weight of burnout, overwhelm, or disconnection from their deeper purpose.
You are a great fit if:
- You’re craving stillness and simplicity to quiet the noise of daily life
- You feel burned out and disconnected, and yearn to replenish your energy in a supportive environment
- You’re seeking a deeper connection with yourself and your soul’s purpose
- You’re ready to release old patterns, reconnect with your inner truth, and reignite your passion for life and work
- You’re open to cultural and spiritual exploration in the transformative beauty of the Sahara Desert
If you’re longing to step away from the demands of the world and into a space of profound renewal, this retreat was created with you in mind.
why is the retreat 7 days long?
This retreat is carefully designed to maximize your experience in the Sahara Desert while accounting for travel time. Most international flights arrive in Casablanca, located on Morocco's western coast. From there, it takes just over 10 hours to reach the Sahara in the southeast.
To make the journey comfortable, we’ll travel over the first few days, spending some time in the mountains and arriving in Merzouga in time for sunset on Day 4. Days 4–6 will be spent fully immersed in the desert experience. On Day 7, we’ll arrange for your return flight to Casablanca to ensure you’re ready for your journey home—unless you choose to extend your stay, which we’d be delighted to assist with.
Why are you hosting the retreat at this time of year? Will there be another one?
We chose the Fall because it’s the best time to visit the Sahara. Starting in late spring, temperatures can soar above 100–125°F, but by late September, the weather cools to a warm, pleasant climate—perfect for this transformative experience.
As for future retreats, we can’t say for sure. While we hope to host more, this might be a one-time opportunity. If the timing isn’t ideal for you, we urge you to consider this: true transformation rarely happens at a “perfect” time.
Taking just one week now can significantly impact how you experience the rest of your year—leaving you feeling renewed, focused, and purposeful. With limited spots available, this intimate retreat is your chance to prioritize your growth and embrace the life-changing power of stepping out of your daily routine.
what if i want to bring a friend?
We would love to have you both join us on this retreat! In fact, it can be very meaningful to share a transformative experience with a close friend or loved one and support each other.
We offer a shared room discount as well. If you are interested in joint accommodations, please reach out to us directly to access the discount. Email us at [email protected].
I'm interested, but I have additional questions. Can i talk to someone?
Absolutely! We'd be more than happy to set up a call with you to discuss your unique situation, address your concerns, and answer any additional questions you may have. Simply send us an email at [email protected] and we will set up a time to chat.
I’ve never been to a Muslim country. What is it like?
Morocco is a welcoming and culturally rich country known for its hospitality and warmth. You’ll experience a mix of tradition and modernity, with daily life shaped by Islamic customs, like the call to prayer five times a day and a focus on modesty. The cuisine is flavorful and diverse, although pork and alcohol are generally avoided and not easily found in the desert. The locals are open, friendly and respectful. In rural areas like the Sahara, people embrace visitors with generosity and kindness, making it very safe and easy to feel at ease and connected. Our retreat ensures you’ll feel welcomed, supported and informed for a peaceful, transformative experience.
What time zone is Morocco in?
Morocco operates on GMT+1, which is 5–6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST), depending on daylight saving time in the U.S.
What is the weather like in the desert this time of year?
The weather in the desert this time of year (late Sept - early Oct) is pleasant with daytime temps ranging from 82°F to 93°F, making it one of the best times to visit the Sahara. In the evening, temps cool down significantly, dropping to around 59°F to 68°. You may need a light jacket or sweater after sunset. In the desert, the days are generally sunny and dry, with little to no chance of rain; however, the air is very dry, so staying hydrated is essential. The weather in the mountains can be cooler, especially at night, so we encourage you to bring layers.
What language(s) are spoken in Morocco?
Morocco's two official languages are Arabic and Amazigh (Berber), but virtually all Moroccans speak and understand French. Spanish is also widespread. Many Moroccans, especially those who work in the tourism industry, also speak English. Your Moroccan guide is fluent in English.
Is Morocco safe?
Morocco is known for its safety, especially in rural areas like the Sahara. The local Berber communities are welcoming and happy to share their culture. You’ll feel a sense of connection and belonging as you explore the desert landscape.
What should I wear?
Morocco is a culturally diverse and relatively liberal Muslim country, but modest dress is appreciated, particularly in rural areas like the Sahara. Lightweight, loose clothing that covers your shoulders and knees is both respectful and practical for the desert climate. Temperatures vary depending on the time of day, as well as the time of year, so packing layers is a good idea. It can also be quite windy, so while not required, a headscarf can be handy (one will be provided for you). You will also want to bring sturdy footwear.
What is a luxury desert camp like?
Luxury camps are often small and intimate, ensuring a peaceful and personalized experience. You’ll stay in spacious, beautifully decorated tents with plush beds, high-quality linens, and traditional Moroccan furnishings. There are private en-suite bathrooms with hot showers, ensuring comfort even in the heart of the desert. There is both electricity and wifi. However, these are camps in the desert, so they are run by generators, and do not have an unlimited supply of resources. We ask that you be conscious of your surroundings, and shut off lights, etc when not in use to conserve energy. There are no TVs, hairdryers or air conditioners, although some camps have fans.
What if I want to visit other parts of the country while I’m there?
We completely understand! Morocco is so culturally and geographically diverse, there’s much more to see than we can cover in one week. If you would like some assistance with extending your trip on the front-end or back-end of the retreat, we would be happy to assist you with ideas, itineraries and travel arrangements. Please reach out to us directly at [email protected] to let us know how we can assist you.
what if I'm ready to book my spot?
That’s wonderful! We’re honored to support you on this journey of renewal, awakening on a soul level, and profound self-discovery. Click the button below to reserve your spot and take the first step toward this life-changing experience.
above: sunset camel ride through
the erg chebbi dunes to the desert camp
