Introducing,
Anchored Self
A retreat to rediscover JOY in your body again
Has Your Wellbeing
Been stuck at the bottom of the list?
If so, I see you
I work with men and women who are high performers, who show up for their families and friends and have a hard time putting their own needs in a place of priority.
They are also people who struggle with chronic pain, low energy, high stress and trouble with brain fog.
Know that you are not destined to live this way forever, and that you are not alone.
Consider this your chance to overcome your stubborn symptoms, to feel more at peace, and to have energy for your future again.
This Retreat is Specifically curated
for Anyone Who...
- Avoids travelling because they’re afraid pain will ruin the experience.
- Is dealing with burnout and struggling to find a way out
- Has stopped trusting their own body as aches and pains are high and energy is so low
- Wants to take better care of their health, but struggles with consistency
- Feels like they are stuck in a stress loop, unable to truly relax
Reunite with Joy, In the Heart of Croatia,
Anchored Self is your chance to learn techniques to return to the deep well of strength and peace within you. A chance to practice and perfect the nervous system regulation that you need to set boundaries and protect your precious health.
Our transformative experience is set against the healing embrace of the open sea. We’ll spend seven days sailing through the turquoise waters of the Adriatic, immersing yourself in restorative practices designed to amplify trust, reconnect with your body, and rebuild your confidence.
The gentle rhythm of the waves, the vast openness of the horizon, and the peaceful isolation of sailing will quiet your mind, soothe your nervous system, and inspire renewal to leave with the tools and mindset to reclaim your life — and memories to last a lifetime.
We Set Sail May 22–31, 2025
Our Route
Your home for the week is the Olmissum, a first-class vessel equipped with two spacious decks, an air-conditioned restaurant, and a shaded lounge area. Each cabin offers a private bathroom and plenty of room to relax between activities.
As we sail through the turquoise waters of the Northern Adriatic, you’ll experience the healing power of the sea, breathtaking coastal views, and the charm of Croatia’s picturesque islands. Every day brings a new adventure, with opportunities for mindful movement, exploration, and quiet moments to reconnect with yourself.
Cabins Starting At $2937
This 9-day Croatia Wellness Retreat is more than a getaway—it’s a chance to heal, grow, and rediscover your confidence.
Begin your journey in the beautiful Istrian city of Rovinj, where we’ll spend two nights soaking in the rich culture and history.
From there, we’ll board the Olmissum and spend seven days exploring the charming islands of the Northern Adriatic, known for their blend of Venetian and Austrian influence. You’ll enjoy expertly guided movement practices, daily mindfulness exercises, cultural tours, nourishing meals, and plenty of time to relax—all designed to help you take the first steps toward a life without fear or limitations.
Accommodation Options
The Olmissum is a premium superior cruise ship launched in 2012. The ship accommodates up to 34 passengers in 17 cabins. Each cabin is equipped with a double or two single beds, a space for your luggage, clothes wardrobe, nightstand, shelves and drawers, a large mirror, air conditioning for cooling or heating of cabins, and each cabin has its own ensuite bathroom with a shower, sink and toilet.
The boat has a sun deck, a covered deck at the back of the restaurant protecting from the sun and wind, a salon and a dining area, as well as a bar with a large selection of drinks. The swimming platform allows us to take a dip during frequent swim stops at stunning beaches.
Single and double occupancy are available, but single occupancy is limited. Double beds are also very limited. Upper deck cabins will be assigned on a first come, first served basis.
First Class Vessel
Ensuite Bathroom
Luggage Space + Wardrobe
Air Conditioned Cabins
Double Cabin
Single Cabin
Take a Pause To Move Beyond Pain
This hands-on healing experience rooted in science and designed to create lasting change. Mandy’s methodology combines somatic movement, lessons from neuroscience, mindfulness and most of all fun. Embodied experience is the catalyst to self discovery. You’ll learn how to break free from the cycle of stiffness, pain and low energy. You’ll practice tools to regulate your nervous system, and set compassionate boundaries.
Here's why it works
1. Rewiring Your Nervous System
Pain isn’t just in your body—it’s in the way your nervous system perceives and responds to movement. Over the week, you’ll:
- Practice somatic movements that gradually retrain your nervous system to reduce pain sensitivity.
- Explore graded exposure techniques that safely reintroduce movement and rebuild confidence in your body.
- Learn how to “speak the language” of your nervous system to shift from fear to trust.
2. Science-Backed Pain Education
Understanding your pain is the first step to overcoming it. Mandy will guide you through workshops and discussions to:
- Demystify the connection between your brain, body, and pain.
- Understand concepts like neuroplasticity and interoception, and how they can help you heal.
- Identify and address the subconscious fear patterns keeping you stuck in pain.
3. Movement Practices Tailored to Your Needs
Every practice is designed to meet you where you are and help you progress at your own pace. During the retreat, you’ll experience:
- Gentle somatic yoga sessions to calm your nervous system and restore balance.
- Restorative exercises that strengthen your body without overloading it.
- Personalized guidance to help you overcome specific pain triggers or feared movements.
4. Mindfulness for Pain Relief
- Mindfulness for Pain Relief
Mindfulness isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a proven tool for calming the nervous system and improving your relationship with your body. You’ll practice:
- Breathing techniques that regulate your stress response and reduce pain perception.
- Guided meditations that help you release tension and connect with your body’s innate strength.
- Daily reflection exercises to deepen your self-awareness and track your progress.
5. The Healing Power of Community and Nature
Healing doesn’t happen in isolation. On this retreat, you’ll experience:
- The support of a small, like-minded group who understand your journey.
- The calming effects of sailing on the open water, which naturally soothes your mind and nervous system.
- Time spent in Croatia’s stunning landscapes, which inspire both peace and renewal.
Retreat Itinerary
Travel is an experience that is uniquely transformative. It excites us, soothes us, and inspires us.
It’s also one of the first things that we let go when pain starts to interfere in our lives. When things get so busy, when everyone else’s needs supercede our own.
If you’ve been struggling with increasing aches and pains, or a chronic pain issue you may wonder:
- Will I tolerate the flights okay?
- Can I handle all of the walking?
- Will I hold my companions back?
This retreat is special. It’s for people who understand that movement and joy are essential to healing. You’ve begun to establish greater resilience. But travel …. still feels like an unknown.
Not only will you have an opportunity to practice the techniques you’ve learned to rely on, live, with Mandy. But you will exist for 10 blissful days in a travel container created just for you. For your healing, your transformation, your community.
The itinerary below is only meant to give you a rough idea of how you will spend your time at Anchored Self. Travel is unpredictable and the Adriatic Sea can sometimes alter plans.
Day One
We Arrive!
It is recommended that you fly in to Pula International Airport (PUY).
We will be staying in the beautiful Hotel Lone in Rovinj for the next two nights. Be sure to plan your flights so that you will be refreshed and present for our welcome dinner.
You will transfer to the city of Rovinj*. The drive is about 40 minutes up the gorgeous Istrian coast.
Meals included: Dinner
*The transfer to Rovinj is not included since retreaters will be arriving at many different times. I will provide information about transfer assistance after registration.
If you would like assistance with flights or additional accommodation, please contact our travel pro, Maxine Brown.
Day Two
A Croatian City That Feels Like Italy
Breakfast is Included
As you acclimate to retreat life you’ll want to take in a leisurely breakfast with your new friends.
Afterward you can enjoy a day in Rovinj on your own or with new retrat friends, or join us for an optional tour. This tour is still being finalized but we are planning a day of truffle hunting, Croatian Culture and cuisine and Istrian wine tasting. Details will be sent to registrants in December 2024.
Rovinj is romantic, historic, and looks and feels more Italian than Croatian. With twisting city streets, a bustling, photogenic harbor, and some of the best seafood restaurants in Croatia, this is a town that is not to be missed.
Lunch* and Dinner are on your own. Have fun exploring!
*Lunch is included in the optional tour
Day Three
Krk
8 -9 am Breakfast
9:30 am Transfer to Opatija Port (about one hour)
Explore the port before we board
12 pm Board the Olmissum
1 pm Lunch
Cruise to Krk
Walking tour in Krk (included)
Overnight in Krk
On our way to Krk we will take our first swim stop to refresh and enjoy the crystal clear seawater, or participate in our first movement practice to loosen up from your travels. Krk has diverse villages of various sizes, stunning promenades, dramatic rock faces with tiny islands and hundreds of hidden bays and beaches. There’s a buzz along the waterfront of Krk Town, have a drink in one of the many bars or choose a restaurant for a tasty dinner
Breakfast and lunch included. Walking tour in Krk included
Day Four
The Island of Love
8 am Breakfast
Movement Practice
Cruise to Rab, The Island of Love
On arrival, join a guided tour (included) to see imposing stone walls and Romanesque church towers, churches, palaces, stone streets and ancient facades. Many streets and squares are open-air galleries, as artists work outside. If weather permits, walk up to the Kamenjak hill and watch the magnificent sunset. While in Rab, you must try the famous Rab cake and learn about it’s incredible history
Overnight in Rab.
Rab walking tour included. Breakfast and lunch included
Day Five
Tiny Islands and Ancient Palaces
7-9 am Breakfast
Morning cruise from Rab towards Zadar, travelling by Pag island with its unusual moon-like landscape. Swim stop on the tiny Maun Island where we will take our movement practice. Upon arrival to Zadar, join the optional guided tour. Once the metropolis of Dalmatia, today, Zadar is the centre of the region. The rich cultural heritage is visible at every turn: the Roman Forum dating to the 1st century AD, the church of St. Donatus dating to the 9th century AD – the most famous Medieval Basilica and symbol of the city, the imposing and mighty city walls, numerous palaces and villas of former noble families. Great restaurants line part of the waterfront and the centre of town. Famous, contemporary creations are the Zadar Sea Organ, one of a kind in the world (listen to the sound) and “The Greeting to the Sun” light installation. Overnight in Zadar.
Walking tour included. Breakfast and Lunch Included
Day Six
Northern Zadar Archipelago
Early departure towards Molat or Olib island (depending on the available harbour space) in the northern part of the Zadar archipelago. Think pure peace and serenity. This will be the location for our day’s movement practice. Tonight, enjoy the Captain’s dinner party on board. Overnight in the quaint harbour.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
Day Seven
Museum and Gardens
After breakfast and the morning swim or movement practice, cruise towards Ilovik. It may have only a few hundred inhabitants but Ilovik has lovely bays and crystal clear water. A short stop before departure towards Lošinj, known as the “sunshine island” and for its abundance of pines, wildflowers and herbs. Lošinj is one of the most popular islands on the northern Adriatic waters for its hidden coves and cool Mediterranean vibe. On arrival, stroll along the pretty waterfront. We’ll visit the museum of Apoxiomenos and the Lošinj Aromatic Garden full of indigenous herbs and plants (entrance fee and transfers included). The small town of Veli Lošinj is easy to reach if you want to explore on foot.
Overnight in Mali Lošinj.
Tour and entrance fee of museum and gardens included. Breakfast and lunch included
Day Eight
“A Typical Medieval Town”
Departure towards Cres after breakfast and the morning swim or movement practice. This unspoiled island of long and narrow shape is abundant with olive groves, vineyards, forests of oak, beech and remarkable stone walls. Cres and Mali Lošinj were once connected as one island, before the Romans dug a narrow channel to separate them. Spend the night in the port of Cres, a typical medieval town.
Village dinner with music, wine and transfer included. Breakfast and Lunch Included
Day Nine
The Longest Seaside Promenade in Croatia
After breakfast, departure towards Opatija. The famous Opatija Riviera is best seen from the sea. On arrival in the afternoon, join a walking tour of Opatija. Stroll the longest lungomare (seaside promenade) in Croatia or stop in Volosko, a traditional fishing village with some of the best fish restaurants in the country. On the last night on board, we’ll have a farewell party under the stars. This would be a great time to swap contact details with your new friends
Breakfast and Lunch Included
Day Ten
Back on Land… 🙁
After an early breakfast, we will gather for our transfer back to Pula or transport to your next destination. The group transfer is not included but we will be arranging one since most, but not all, will be headed back to Pula.
Breakfast included
Meet Your Hosts
Mandy Ryle
E-RYT 500, CSCS, Pain Care Coach, Certified Nutritionist
When chronic pain takes over your life, it’s hard to know who to trust—but Mandy has dedicated her career to being that trusted guide for her clients. As a movement professional since 2008, Mandy has helped hundreds of individuals reclaim their lives from pain through a blend of evidence-based techniques and compassionate care.
Her approach is rooted in the science of pain care, combining neuroscience, somatic movement, strength and conditioning, and nutrition to address the root causes of pain. Mandy understands that chronic pain isn’t just physical—it’s deeply tied to fear, stress, and loss of confidence in your body. That’s why she focuses on creating practical, science-backed solutions that empower her clients to rebuild trust in their bodies and move fearlessly again.
Mandy has led transformative retreats in Costa Rica, Greece, Spain, Croatia, and beyond, crafting experiences that blend healing, connection, and renewal. At the Anchored Self Retreat, Mandy will guide you through restorative movement practices, mindfulness exercises, and workshops designed to help you understand and overcome the patterns keeping you stuck in pain. With her evidence-based methods and compassionate teaching style, you’ll feel supported every step of the way.
Megan Hoover
RYT, Certified Yoga for Sports Conditioning
Megan knows firsthand how chronic pain can steal joy and limit movement—but she also knows that healing is possible. Since 2014, Megan has helped her students create stronger, healthier bodies by blending mindfulness, movement, and strength training techniques. Her unique ability to meet her students where they are has made her a trusted guide for those looking to overcome pain and regain confidence in their physical abilities.
With years of experience teaching yoga and fitness, Megan specializes in helping her students reconnect with their bodies in ways that feel safe, empowering, and sustainable. Her motto, “Always continue to create a healthier and stronger version of you,” has been the foundation of her teaching philosophy, inspiring students to push past fear and rediscover what their bodies are truly capable of.
At Anchored Self, Megan will bring her expertise in mindfulness and strength-building to support your healing journey. Her calm, encouraging presence and practical guidance will help you feel confident as you take the first steps toward a life beyond pain.
Your Journey to confidence and freedom Awaits
Imagine waking up each day knowing that you can trust yourself to put your own needs high on the list. Picture yourself confidently walking into experiences you once avoided—traveling without fear, enjoying time with loved ones, and taking chances on new adventures.
This is what’s waiting for you after Anchored Self. No more second-guessing your body. No more apologies for the things you can’t do. Instead, you’ll have the tools to trust yourself again, the confidence to embrace new opportunities, and the strength to live the life you’ve been dreaming of.
You’ve spent enough time feeling stuck, defeated, and uncertain about the future. This retreat is your turning point—a chance to finally move beyond fear and into a life of freedom and possibility.
With expert guidance, proven pain care techniques, and the healing beauty of Croatia, Anchored Self will give you everything you need to step boldly into the next chapter of your life.
FAQ
What is Included in the Trip Price?
Your retreat price includes:
- 2 nights lodging at our hotel in Rovinj
- 2 breakfasts and a welcome dinner in Rovinj
- Group transfer to Opatija
- 7 nights aboard the Olmissum
- Daily breakfast and 3 course lunch on the Olmissum
- Olive oil and wine tasting on board
- Guided walking tours of Opatija, Rab, Krk, Mali Losinj and Zadar
- Village dinner in Cres
- Once or twice daily movement sessions with Mandy and Meg
- Dedicated cruise manager and crew
- Welcome drink at Hotel Lone and on the Olmissum
- Use of Hotel Lone’s wellness and spa zone
- Captain’s Dinner
- WiFi
- Water and tea. Coffee after lunch
What is Not Included?
- Tips and gratuities. Estimate 100 Euro for crew. 5 Euro for tour guides per tour
- Flights – Please contact Max if you would like assistance with flights and additional accommodation
- Transfers and transportation that is not a part of the included group tours or transfers
- Most dinners and snacks that are not included in our organized meals
- Beverages other than coffee, tea and water on Olmissum and at our Rovinj hotel. Exception: the Cres Village dinner.
- Additional purchases
- Visitors tax and port fees. 60 Euro per person to be paid on the spot by cash.
Travel Insurance
Let’s face it, no one plans on having to cancel a trip. No one expects things to go awry with flights. But they absolutely do. We’ve seen people end up in pretty terrible situations financially when issues come up, and we’ve seen people made whole by their trip insurance provider.
Please note that we must adhere to our cancellation policy to remain in good standing with our vendors and also to ensure that all participants have a great experience. No exceptions are made, which means that if you have to cancel, only your trip insurance can make you whole.
There are many great providers. Just look for a policy that covers the things that are most important to you. It’s a small extra expense for a big peace of mind.
Payment and Cancellation Policy
You have two options to secure your spot and register for this Wellness Retreat in Croatia.
- Pay in Full upon registration
- Use a Payment Plan. If you use a payment plan your payment will be divided into 5 equal installments. Your deposit will be the first installment. Monthly installments will be automatically charged to your card on file on the same date each month. Missed payments must be paid within 14 days or you forfeit your registration and your payments.
We understand that sometimes things happen. For that reason we offer a refund policy.
- If you cancel 180 days before the first day of the retreat, (Friday, November 24) Mandy Ryle Yoga retains $200 of your retreat price
- If you cancel between November 25 and January 1, 2024 Mandy Ryle Yoga Retains 70% of your retreat price
- No refund available after January 2, 2025. Mandy Ryle will retain 100% percent of trip price. Please understand that by this point the vendors have been paid and funds cannot be recovered.
Intent to cancel must be received by email by Mandy at mandy@yoga.mandyryle.com.
The send date of the email will reflect the date of cancellation. Your refund, if due, will be credited to the same credit card you used to register within 10 business days. Funds can take another 5-7 business days to appear on your statement.
It is highly recommended that you purchase trip insurance or check with your credit card company to ensure that you are covered in the event of the unexpected.
What Airport Should I Fly Into?
It is recommended that you fly in to Pula International Airport (PUY).
We will be staying in the beautiful Hotel Lone in Rovinj for the next two nights. Be sure to plan your flights so that you will be refreshed and present for our welcome dinner.
If you need help with flights or transfers, please contact our travel pro Max at max@topexperiencetravel.net
You will transfer to the city of Rovinj*. The drive is about 40 minutes up the gorgeous Istrian coast.
What are the movement practices like?
Retreating on a small cruise ship is exciting and just about the coolest experience you can have. It can create some challenges for scheduling movement practices however. Generally there will be 1-2 practices per day. One will be a somatic yoga experience and the other more strength based. You are always welcome to sit out practices if needed.
All practices are designed to support relaxation and resilience.