Cultivating Joy: A Ketamine-assisted Mindfulness Retreat at Menla

Discover profound healing and inner peace at Cultivating Joy, a transformative ketamine-assisted mindfulness retreat taking place Thursday, October 22, 2026, at the serene Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, NY. This immersive healing retreat event in Phoenicia brings together cutting-edge therapeutic science and ancient wisdom traditions, creating a safe, supportive container for deep personal transformation. Led by renowned Qigong master Mingtong Gu, this healing retreat combines guided mindfulness practices with professional ketamine-assisted therapy, offering attendees a rare opportunity to access expanded states of consciousness while grounded in evidence-based healing protocols.

This unique healing retreat experience is designed for those seeking breakthrough healing from anxiety, depression, grief, and existential disconnection. Whether you're exploring new pathways to wellness or deepening an existing practice, this Phoenicia retreat creates the ideal conditions for breakthrough insights and lasting change. The combination of ketamine-assisted therapy, guided meditation, and energetic Qigong practices offers a multi-dimensional approach to healing that honors both scientific research and traditional healing wisdom.

What to Expect

From the moment you arrive at this healing retreat in Phoenicia, you'll enter a carefully curated environment designed to support inner exploration and profound relaxation. The day begins with grounding Qigong practices led by Mingtong Gu, whose gentle yet powerful techniques help attune your nervous system and open energetic pathways. As the retreat progresses, you'll receive professional ketamine-assisted therapy in a supportive clinical setting, followed by guided mindfulness meditation to help integrate insights and experiences.

The retreat's rhythm alternates between active practices and deep rest periods, allowing your mind and body to process the expanded states of awareness that ketamine facilitates. You'll experience guided visualization, breathwork, and energy cultivation techniques designed to amplify healing and self-discovery. Attendees consistently report profound shifts in perspective, emotional release, and a renewed sense of possibility and joy—the core intention of this transformative healing retreat event.

The retreat concludes with integration practices and community reflection, ensuring you leave not just inspired, but grounded with practical tools for sustaining your healing journey at home.

About the Artists

Mingtong Gu, Qigong Master — Mingtong Gu is a lineage holder in ancient Chinese Qigong and founder of the Chi Healing Institute, where he has guided thousands of students worldwide toward vibrant health and spiritual awakening. His distinctive approach bridges thousands of years of Eastern energy medicine with contemporary wellness science, making profound practices accessible to modern practitioners. At this healing retreat, Mingtong brings his signature ability to create palpable energetic shifts, helping attendees activate their body's innate healing intelligence.

Venue & Location

Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa sits nestled in the heart of Phoenicia, a tranquil mountain village in the Catskills known for its natural beauty and spiritual sanctuary atmosphere. The venue's stunning architecture, peaceful grounds, and spa facilities create an ideal healing retreat setting that supports deep rest and rejuvenation. Located approximately two hours from New York City with ample parking and easy access, this Phoenicia retreat center is designed to feel like a sanctuary removed from daily life while remaining accessible to most attendees.