Rewild & Restore Retreat: Breathwork, Ice Baths, Sauna & Nature
Rewild & Restore: A Transformative Wellness Retreat at Lost Hill Lake
In late summer 2025, Lost Hill Lake and Breath & Exposure STL teamed up to host the first-ever Rewild & Restore Retreat, a 3-day, 2-night experience designed to help participants reconnect with nature, community, and themselves. The result was pure magic.
Nervous System Regulation at the Heart of the Retreat
At the core of this retreat was guided breathwork practice, designed to help regulate the nervous system, restore balance, and unlock new levels of resilience. Participants explored:
Breathwork - learning to shift from stress to calm with conscious breathing
CO₂ tolerance training - building mental clarity and endurance through advanced techniques
Nervous system regulation paired with ice bath and sauna activations - contrast therapy sessions that tested limits, fostered deep focus, and provided lasting energy
Playfulness in nature promotes presences and healing - a beautiful natural safe space for vulnerability, laughter, and connection
Many guests shared that these intentional sessions, especially when paired with the ice bath and sauna, were deeply nourishing - offering not just a retreat reset, but tools for everyday life.
The Power of Nature + Play
The retreat wasn’t limited to stillness - it was also about movement, play, and reconnecting with the natural world. Across 200 private acres at Lost Hill Lake, participants enjoyed:
Hiking through wooded trails surrounded by Ozark beauty
Swimming in the lake for both fun and refreshing recovery
Forest bathing and mindful walks that grounded the body and soul in nature
Evenings under the stars in cozy glamping units or tents, finding comfort and simplicity outdoors
Pairing breathwork with outdoor adventure created a whole-body reset that participants said felt both exhilarating and deeply restorative.
Nourishment for Body and Mind
Of course, no retreat would be complete without good food - and this one delivered. Throughout the weekend, guests enjoyed chef-prepared, whole-food meals crafted by Chef Kourtney to fuel their journey. Every dish was designed to nourish body and mind, complementing the physical and emotional work of the retreat.
Sharing meals together also became a highlight. Time to laugh, reflect, and build connections with fellow participants was something to look forward to.
What Made the Weekend So Special
The Rewild & Restore Retreat combined challenge, connection, and joy in a way that left a lasting mark on everyone involved. Together, we experienced:
Transformative breathwork and contrast therapy (ice bath + sauna)
Movement and yoga to reconnect with the body
Hiking, swimming, and playful summer adventures
Beautiful chef-prepared meals that fueled both energy and connection
Deep conversations and laughter around the campfire
It wasn’t just a retreat—it was a true reset.
Gratitude and What’s Next
This retreat was made possible by Lost Hill Lake and Breath & Exposure STL and the incredible facilitators who poured their energy, wisdom, and love into the experience: Josh Hildebrand, Cody Decker, Lunaa, Kristyn, Samantha Williford, and Chef Kourtney. And thanks to J Elizabeth Photography, who captured the weekend’s spirit in stunning photos.
The Rewild & Restore Retreat proved just how powerful it can be when we combine breathwork, ice baths, sauna, hiking, swimming, chef-prepared meals, and intentional community in nature.
And this is only the beginning.
We’re already planning more transformative retreats in 2026 - so stay tuned for the next chance to rewild, restore, and breathe deeply at Lost Hill Lake.
➡️Want to plan your own retreat? Learn more about hosting your event at Lost Hill Lake today!
Special thanks photographer: J Elizabeth Photography