Rhea
Attending UMI was a soul-stirring journey that resonated deeply within my spirit. Immersing myself in the underwater realms, I felt an ethereal harmony and oneness with the natural world. The deep communion I formed with the ocean and nature was pure magic, awakening a profound sense of peace and belonging within me. This profound experience has ignited a desire within me to be a better steward of the Earth, more mindful of my actions, and more committed to preserving the enchanting beauty of our planet.
The sense of connection and belonging I felt with the other participants was unparalleled, fostering a profound sense of community that I carry with me to this day. My well-being has significantly improved, and I now flow through life with a renewed sense of purpose and resilience. The skills and insights I gained during the retreat have empowered me to make more conscious choices in my daily life.
The quality of the retreat was exceptional. From the moment I arrived, I felt a sense of safety and care that allowed me to fully immerse myself in the experience. Alex is not only knowledgeable and wise but also incredibly supportive and attentive to each participant's needs. Every detail was thoughtfully planned, creating an environment of delight and wonder. UMI is truly a unique and magical experience that I would highly recommend to anyone seeking personal growth, a deeper connection with nature, and a renewed commitment to making a positive impact.
Thank you, Alex and UMI, for what could only have been an experience of a lifetime. I hope to be back soon!
Lawrence
UMI was an incredible experience! The activities, events, diving, and overall structure of the week were expertly curated to foster personal growth, environmental awareness, mindfulness, and a deep connection to the ocean. Whether you're an experienced mindfulness practitioner or diver, or entirely new to both, UMI offers something transformative. Programs like this are essential in today’s world, where the challenges of climate change and mental health feel more urgent than ever.
On a personal level, the retreat profoundly impacted me. With over 20 years of meditation and mindfulness practice, I found Alex’s dharma talks and group activities inspiring and rejuvenating, reigniting my lifelong commitment to expanding practices that can sometimes stagnate along my life path. As a diver, the underwater meditations were groundbreaking—they reshaped the way I approach diving and will remain with me in every dive for the rest of my life.
Finally, UMI provided a much-needed break from my hectic lifestyle as a physician, researcher, and small business owner. It was a deeply healing week for my mental health, and I often return to the memories of underwater meditation whenever I need a moment of peace and clarity. UMI will forever hold a special place in my heart.
Angel
When I heard about this program its power spoke to me so much I decided to attend even with it taking place over my birthday. As a diver I believed myself to be mindful but sitting in front of the same bit of reef over days put me in relationship with Mama Oceanía in way I'd never experienced. In addition to that integration there was plenty of time spent exploring newness and wonder.
Each "sit" had a clear intention and spaciousness for whatever arose outside of that. There was opportunity to process inwardly and outwardly in whatever way felt most nourishing for us as individuals. I knew I loved the ocean when I arrived at this retreat but I left feeling more empowered and connected, putting 2 feet into the desire to be a part of the solution for myself and this beautiful planet we get to explore.
Danielle
It's been a few months since my experience at UMI. I'm so grateful that I took part in the program, it was one of the most unique experiences of my life. Feeling my body under the water with air but without a tank was exquisite and freeing. We spent time getting to know a place, that was unlike any other wonderful but more consumptive dive experience that I've had. Pairing the diving with the onshore activities, the mindfulness of the container, and meditations changed how I dove. Alex brings his whole heart to the creation of the program, providing beautiful and thought-provoking activities while also leaving time for relaxation and connection with the other participants. I couldn't say enough good things, and I highly recommend UMI to people who want to explore their relationship with water in a new way.
Sam
UMI was a transformative week for me. I came feeling quite ill from a chronic illness, and through Alex's guidance, the healing water, and the guided meditations I felt a renewed sense of vitality. Everything was so thoughtfully prepared, and I felt safe and held throughout the entire experience.