Frequently Asked Questions

Have any other questions that aren’t covered here? Contact me directly.

+1.720.661.2211

elle@the-courageous-life.com

TERMS

COURAGEOUS LIFE

BREATHWORK WAIVER, RELEASE OF LIABILITY & INFORMED CONSENT

Courageous Life offers trauma-informed breathwork experiences that may include conscious connected breathwork, guided meditation, somatic awareness, music, and optional coaching-style reflection (“Services”). By participating in any Services (in-person or online), you agree to the terms below.

1) Not Medical or Mental Health Care

I understand that Services provided by Courageous Life are not medical care, psychotherapy, psychiatric treatment, or a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. I understand that no guarantees have been made about outcomes.

2) Potential Risks & Effects

I understand breathwork can create physical, emotional, or psychological effects. Possible experiences include (but are not limited to): dizziness, tingling, temperature changes, muscle tension/cramping, nausea, headache, lightheadedness, emotional release, shaking/trembling, anxiety, or the surfacing of memories or strong emotions.

I understand there are rare risks, including injury from falling or movement, panic responses, aggravation of underlying conditions, or other unexpected reactions.

3) Contraindications / When to Seek Medical Clearance

I understand breathwork may not be appropriate without medical clearance for certain conditions, including (examples): pregnancy (especially high-risk), cardiovascular disease, history of stroke/aneurysm, uncontrolled high blood pressure, epilepsy/seizure disorders, severe asthma or significant respiratory conditions, glaucoma/retinal detachment, recent major surgery, severe osteoporosis, kidney disease requiring dialysis, or serious mental health conditions such as psychosis, schizophrenia, active mania, or current suicidal ideation.

I agree that if I have any medical or mental health concerns, I will consult a qualified healthcare provider before participating.

4) Personal Responsibility

I acknowledge that I am responsible for my own wellbeing during and after sessions. I agree to:

  • Listen to my body and participate at my own pace

  • Stop or modify my breathing at any time and return to normal breathing

  • Inform the facilitator if I feel dizzy, unsafe, overwhelmed, or in pain

  • Follow all safety guidance provided

5) Assumption of Risk

I knowingly and freely assume all risks—known and unknown—associated with participation in Services, whether in-person or online.

6) Release of Liability & Waiver of Claims

To the fullest extent permitted by law, I release and hold harmless Courageous Life, its owner(s), facilitator(s), contractors, assistants, volunteers, and any hosting venue or event partners (collectively, “Released Parties”) from any and all claims, demands, causes of action, damages, or liabilities arising out of or related to my participation, including claims arising from ordinary negligence.

This includes, without limitation: physical injury, emotional distress, property damage, illness, or death that may occur during or after participation.

7) Indemnification

I agree to indemnify and defend the Released Parties from any claims brought by or on behalf of me or any third party arising from my participation, my conduct, or my breach of this agreement.

8) Online / Virtual Sessions

If participating online, I understand I am responsible for creating a safe physical space (clear area, supportive surface, hydration, privacy). I agree not to participate while driving or doing any activity requiring attention for safety. I understand the facilitator cannot physically intervene during a virtual session.

9) Emergency Medical Authorization (In-Person)

In the event of an emergency during an in-person session, I authorize Courageous Life to contact emergency services and/or my emergency contact. I understand I am responsible for any medical costs incurred.

10) Confidentiality (Group Settings)

Courageous Life will treat personal information shared with care. For group sessions, I understand confidentiality cannot be guaranteed and I agree to respect the privacy of others by not sharing their personal information outside the group.

11) Optional Consent to Supportive Touch (If Offered In-Person)

If supportive touch is offered, it will only be with verbal consent/check-in. Participants may decline touch at any time.

12) Governing Law / Venue (Global Practice)

This agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Colorado, USA, for any Services booked through Courageous Life or delivered while the participant is located in Colorado, except where prohibited by mandatory local law. For Services delivered while the participant is located outside Colorado (including South Africa and any other global location) or accessed internationally online, this agreement will be interpreted to provide the maximum enforceable protection permitted under the laws of the jurisdiction where the session occurs or is accessed. Any dispute shall be brought in a court of competent jurisdiction in Denver, Colorado, unless mandatory local law requires a different venue, in which case the parties agree to venue in the participant’s jurisdiction and that the remaining terms of this agreement shall remain in full force to the fullest extent permitted).

If any provision of this agreement is held unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

13) Cancellation or Reschedule Policy

Please cancel within 48 hours of the scheduled session to receive a full refund or reschedule within 24 hours to receive a credit.

By booking and participating, I acknowledge that I have read and agree to this Waiver & Informed Consent and understand I am waiving certain legal rights.

Wild Within Retreat Terms and Conditions

The Wild Within South Africa Retreat

With Elle Winsted, The Courageous Life & Anelia Uzunova, The RISE Method

February 18–22, 2027

Optional Cape Town Pre-Trip Add-On: February 15–18, 2027

In consideration of my participation with The Courageous Life for “Wild Within,” also known as the “Retreat,” and any associated events and activities, I agree to the following:

Retreat Package Contents

The Wild Within South Africa Retreat package includes:

  • Luxury tented chalet accommodations

  • All meals during the retreat

  • Round-trip airport transfer from Nelspruit Airport / Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport to Mdluli Safari Lodge

  • Access to all planned workshops, ceremonies, and activities, subject to change, including:

    • Three conscious breathwork journeys in nature with Elle

    • Local community dancing and drumming at the welcome dinner

    • Guided workshops with Anelia

    • Relaxation and integration time

    • Three safari game drives and one morning bush walk

    • Two boma dinners and one bush braai dinner

    • Evening expression rituals

    • Additional experiences and activities as planned

  • Full access to the property, with time to process, relax, recalibrate, and connect

Please communicate major food allergies as soon as possible by emailing Elle at elle@the-courageous-life.com. While we will make reasonable efforts to accommodate dietary needs, not all requests can be guaranteed.

Retreat Package Does Not Include

The retreat package does not include:

  • International flights

  • Domestic / inter-country flights from Cape Town to Nelspruit / Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, or Johannesburg to Nelspruit / Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport

  • Travel insurance

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Spa packages

  • Personal purchases

  • Additional lodging or transportation outside the retreat dates

  • Any activities, meals, or services not specifically listed as included

Optional Cape Town Pre-Trip Add-On

The Optional Cape Town Pre-Trip Add-On, if purchased, may include:

  • Cape Town accommodation from February 15–18, 2027, shared or single depending on selection

  • Group transportation within Cape Town for included activities, such as Ubers or organized transfers

  • Select planned group activities, subject to change, which may include excursions and/or experiences coordinated through third-party operators

  • Optional breathwork session and/or integration activity, subject to change

The Cape Town Pre-Trip is an optional add-on. If I do not purchase the Pre-Trip, the Pre-Trip terms below do not apply to me.

Cape Town Pre-Trip Does Not Include

The Cape Town Pre-Trip does not include:

  • International flights

  • Domestic / inter-country flights from Cape Town to Nelspruit / Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, or Johannesburg to Nelspruit / Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport

  • Travel insurance

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Personal purchases

  • Additional activities, meals, lodging, or transportation not specifically listed as included

1. Definitions

“Activities” include all activities at the Retreat, and if purchased, the Optional Cape Town Pre-Trip. Activities include, without limitation, conscious breathwork, swimming in pools, lectures, workshops, instruction, safari activities, bush walks, rituals, ceremonies, transportation to and from the Retreat, transportation during the Pre-Trip, excursions, and all other activities associated with the Retreat and/or Pre-Trip.

“Risks” include, without limitation, vehicular traffic, road and sidewalk conditions, health and environmental conditions, including disease, infection, wild animals, insects, weather, equipment failure, participant error, food provided, facilities, actions of other people, third-party providers, and the actions, negligence, or carelessness of the Released, as defined below.

“Released” includes the Retreat, The Courageous Life, Wild Within Retreat, their officers, directors, facilitators, employees, contractors, agents, volunteers, the owners or operators of any Retreat facilities, transportation providers, equipment providers, third-party operators, sponsors, and any other persons or entities involved in the Retreat or Pre-Trip.

‍ ‍

2. Certification, Acknowledgements, and Assumption of Risk

I hereby certify that I am physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of participating in the Retreat and any Activities, and that I have not been advised otherwise by a qualified medical professional.

I understand that the Retreat may include physically, emotionally, and mentally impactful experiences, including but not limited to conscious breathwork, somatic practices, workshops, rituals, safari activities, travel, group sharing, and time in nature.

I understand that breathwork may bring up physical sensations, emotions, memories, or altered states of awareness. I acknowledge that breathwork is not a substitute for medical care, therapy, psychiatric care, or consultation with a qualified healthcare provider.

I certify that I have answered all registration, intake, medication, and health-related questions truthfully. I agree to disclose any physical, mental, emotional, or medical conditions that may affect my participation before the Retreat begins.

In the event of known medical conditions, including but not limited to pregnancy, epilepsy, history of seizures, significant cardiovascular conditions, recent surgery, severe asthma, psychosis, bipolar disorder, PTSD, panic disorder, or any other physical, emotional, or mental health condition, I certify that I have consulted a healthcare professional before participating.

I understand that even if I am accepted as a participant, I remain responsible for my own health, safety, choices, and well-being during and after the Retreat.

I hereby assume all risks of participation in the Activities and the Retreat, including all Risks, whether caused by my own actions, the actions of other participants, third-party providers, the natural environment, or the negligence or carelessness of the Released.

I acknowledge that I am in control of my own experience and confirm that I take full responsibility for my physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

3. Waiver, Release, and Agreement Not to Sue

I, on behalf of myself and my executors, administrators, heirs, successors, and assigns, hereby fully release, waive any claims against, discharge, and agree not to sue the Released from any and all liability for any damage, injury, illness, loss, emotional distress, psychological distress, trauma response, or death that may occur while traveling to or from, attending, participating in, or engaging with the Retreat, the Optional Cape Town Pre-Trip if purchased, or any Activities.

This waiver and release applies whether the damage, injury, illness, loss, emotional distress, psychological distress, trauma response, or death is caused by negligence, carelessness, accident, natural conditions, third-party providers, or otherwise.

4. Shared Room

Unless I select and pay for single accommodation, I understand that I will be placed in shared accommodation with one other retreat participant in a luxury chalet with a shared bathroom.

Room assignments are made by the retreat hosts. While the hosts will do their best to accommodate roommate preferences, specific rooming requests are not guaranteed.

If I select shared accommodation and my assigned roommate cancels or a suitable roommate is unavailable, I understand that the retreat hosts may, at their discretion, assign a new roommate, offer alternate arrangements, or require me to pay the difference to convert to single accommodation if available.

5. Indemnification and Hold Harmless

I, on my own behalf and, if applicable, as the parent or legal guardian of a participant, agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Released from any loss, liability, damage, claim, demand, suit, legal action, or expense, including reasonable attorney’s fees, arising out of any alleged injury, illness, damage, emotional distress, psychological distress, trauma response, loss, or death resulting from my participation in the Retreat, Optional Cape Town Pre-Trip, or Activities.

This includes any injury, illness, damage, loss, or death alleged to have resulted from the negligence or carelessness of any person or entity.

6. Personal Property

I acknowledge and agree that I am responsible for all of my personal property during the Retreat and Optional Cape Town Pre-Trip.

The Released are not responsible for any personal property that is lost, stolen, damaged, or left behind, including but not limited to luggage, electronics, travel documents, jewelry, clothing, cash, credit cards, or personal items.

7. Force Majeure / Disasters

I understand that events beyond the control of Wild Within Retreat, The Courageous Life, its facilitators, hosts, partners, and/or vendors may occur that could impact the Retreat or Optional Cape Town Pre-Trip.

These events may include, but are not limited to, fire, severe weather, flooding, earthquakes, acts of war, terrorism, government action, labor strikes, pandemics, epidemics, public health emergencies, civil unrest, natural disasters, interruptions of utilities, airline disruptions, transportation interruptions, lodge closures, road closures, or any other event beyond the reasonable control of the retreat hosts, vendors, or partners.

These events are referred to as “Force Majeure Events.”

If a Force Majeure Event occurs, Wild Within Retreat will make reasonable efforts to provide alternatives where possible, such as rescheduling, modifying the itinerary, offering a substitute experience, or adjusting logistics. However, Wild Within Retreat cannot guarantee specific outcomes and is not responsible for any additional expenses I may incur, including travel costs, lodging outside the Retreat dates, transportation, missed flights, personal purchases, or other expenses.

I understand that no refunds are available due to Force Majeure Events. I agree that the best protection is to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation, trip interruption, medical coverage, evacuation coverage, and travel delay coverage.

8. Payments, Cancellation, Credit, and Transfers

I understand that by enrolling in Wild Within Retreat, The Courageous Life and its retreat partners commit funds to vendors, accommodations, facilitators, transportation, and retreat logistics in advance.

Therefore, all payments are non-refundable, including the deposit.

Cancellation by Participant

If I cancel my participation, I must notify Wild Within Retreat in writing by emailing Elle at elle@the-courageous-life.com.

Credit Before Final Payment Deadline

If I cancel on or before December 20, 2026, I may request a retreat credit equal to the amount I have paid to date, minus any non-refundable processing fees or costs already committed on my behalf.

This credit may be applied toward a future offering with The Courageous Life or Wild Within Retreat.

Credit:

  • is non-transferable and may only be used by the original participant;

  • must be used within 24 months of issuance;

  • may be applied only to offerings with available space;

  • may not be redeemed for cash.

No Credit After Final Payment Deadline

Cancellations after December 20, 2026 are not eligible for a refund or credit.

Final Booking Deadline

Final bookings close on January 15, 2027.

Because this retreat involves international payments, vendor deadlines, accommodation commitments, and cross-border transfer times, all final bookings must be completed at least 30 days before the retreat begins. This allows sufficient time for funds to be received, processed, transferred, and finalized with retreat vendors.

Any bookings made after the final payment deadline of December 20, 2026 must be paid in full at the time of booking. No bookings will be accepted after January 15, 2027.

For the Payment Terms section, update the final lines to:

Any bookings made after December 20, 2026 must be paid in full at the time of booking.

Final bookings close on January 15, 2027 to allow sufficient time for international payments to be received, processed, transferred, and finalized with retreat vendors before the retreat begins.

Replacement Option

If I am unable to attend, I may transfer my spot to a replacement participant approved by Wild Within Retreat.

The replacement participant must complete all required registration forms, agreements, waivers, health intake questions, and any other required documents before being accepted.

If a replacement is confirmed, Wild Within Retreat may honor my paid amount as payment toward the replacement participant’s registration. Any price difference is the responsibility of the replacement participant.

Wild Within Retreat may charge a reasonable administrative fee for processing a transfer, such as $150. Payment processing fees are non-refundable.

Non-Payment / Missed Deadlines

If I enroll using a payment plan and fail to make payments by the stated deadlines, Wild Within Retreat may treat my reservation as canceled and apply the cancellation terms above.

I understand that missing payments does not entitle me to a refund or credit.

Travel Insurance Strongly Recommended

I understand that travel insurance is strongly recommended and should include coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, illness, injury, medical emergencies, evacuation, travel delays, lost baggage, and other unexpected events.

Wild Within Retreat is not responsible for any expenses incurred before, during, or after the Retreat, including flights, additional lodging, transportation, personal purchases, or costs related to delays, illness, injury, or changes in travel plans.

9. Payment Terms

Early Bird spaces are limited and must be paid in full at the time of booking unless otherwise agreed in writing.

For regular pricing, participants may choose either:

  1. Pay in full at the time of booking; or

  2. Reserve their spot with a non-refundable deposit, with the remaining balance due no later than December 20, 2026.

All participants must be paid in full by December 20, 2026 to attend the Retreat.

Deposits

Shared Accommodation: $1,500 non-refundable deposit
Single Accommodation: $1,500 non-refundable deposit

Any bookings made after December 20, 2026 must be paid in full at the time of booking. Final bookings close on January 15, 2027.

10. Optional Cape Town Pre-Trip Add-On TeRMS (Applies Only If Purchased)

A. Add-On Agreement

If I purchase the Optional Cape Town Pre-Trip Add-On, I understand that it is part of the overall Wild Within experience but may involve different lodging, transportation, activities, vendors, and third-party operators.

By purchasing the Optional Cape Town Pre-Trip Add-On, I agree that all terms of this contract apply to the Pre-Trip as well, including but not limited to the waiver, release, assumption of risk, indemnification, personal property, cancellation, payment, and Force Majeure provisions.

B. Payments and Cancellation for Pre-Trip

All Pre-Trip payments are non-refundable, including any portion allocated to lodging deposits, transportation, activities, excursions, or third-party providers.

If I cancel the Pre-Trip on or before December 20, 2026, I may request a credit for amounts paid toward the Pre-Trip under the same credit rules stated in Section 8.

Cancellations after December 20, 2026 are not eligible for any refund or credit for the Pre-Trip.

Any Pre-Trip bookings made after December 20, 2026 must be paid in full at the time of booking and are subject to availability.

Final bookings for the Pre-Trip close on January 15, 2027.

C. Pre-Trip Rooming

If I select shared accommodation for the Pre-Trip, I understand that I may be assigned a roommate.

D. Third-Party Providers and Itinerary Changes

I understand that certain Pre-Trip activities may be operated by third-party providers and may change due to weather, availability, safety conditions, operational reasons, or other circumstances outside the retreat hosts’ control.

The retreat hosts are not responsible for third-party cancellations, delays, itinerary changes, or substitutions, and are not responsible for additional expenses I may incur.

No refunds are provided for itinerary changes. Reasonable substitutions may be offered when feasible.

E. Transportation During Pre-Trip

If group transportation is included, such as Ubers, vans, or organized transfers, I agree to follow group logistics, timing, and safety guidelines.

If I choose to separate from the group, skip planned transportation, or arrange my own transportation, I assume all associated risks and costs.

11. Itinerary and Activity Changes

I understand that the Retreat itinerary, workshops, ceremonies, meals, excursions, safari drives, bush walks, rituals, and activities are subject to change based on weather, safety, facilitator discretion, lodge operations, vendor availability, group needs, wildlife conditions, and other circumstances.

I understand that no specific activity, facilitator session, workshop, animal sighting, excursion, or outcome is guaranteed.

Wild Within Retreat will make reasonable efforts to provide a meaningful and comparable experience when changes are necessary.

12. Health, Safety, and Participant Responsibility

I agree to follow all safety instructions provided by the retreat hosts, facilitators, lodge staff, guides, drivers, and third-party operators.

I understand that safaris, bush walks, time in nature, breathwork, travel, and group experiences may involve inherent risks.

I agree not to participate in any activity if I feel physically, mentally, or emotionally unable to do so. I understand that I may choose to sit out of any activity at any time and that I remain responsible for my own choices.

I understand that the retreat hosts reserve the right to remove a participant from an activity or from the Retreat if the participant’s behavior is unsafe, disruptive, disrespectful, intoxicated, threatening, or harmful to themselves, other participants, facilitators, staff, vendors, property, wildlife, or the group container.

If I am removed from the Retreat due to unsafe or inappropriate behavior, I understand that I am not entitled to a refund or credit and that I am responsible for any additional costs related to transportation, lodging, or travel changes.

13. Alcohol, Substances, and Conduct

I understand that alcoholic beverages are not included in the Retreat package.

If I choose to consume alcohol during the Retreat or Pre-Trip, I agree to do so responsibly and understand that I remain fully responsible for my behavior, choices, and well-being.

I agree not to participate in breathwork, ceremonies, rituals, safari activities, bush walks, or other activities while under the influence of alcohol, recreational drugs, or any substances that may impair my judgment, safety, or participation.

The retreat hosts reserve the right to restrict participation in any activity if they believe I am impaired or unable to safely participate.

14. Words, Images, and Media

I understand that during the Retreat and Optional Cape Town Pre-Trip, I may be photographed, videotaped, filmed, or have my words recorded.

I authorize and allow The Courageous Life, Wild Within Retreat, its facilitators, contractors, photographers, videographers, agents, and partners to use such images, words, video, audio, and likenesses for legitimate purposes, including but not limited to marketing, websites, brochures, social media, promotional materials, and future retreat offerings.

If I do not agree to my face or likeness being used in marketing materials, I agree to inform Elle in writing before the Retreat begins.

If I request not to be featured, The Courageous Life and Wild Within Retreat will make reasonable efforts to avoid using identifiable images of me or to blur my face where possible. I understand that in group settings, incidental appearances may occur.

15. No Guaranteed Results

I understand that the Retreat is intended to provide a supportive, transformational, educational, spiritual, and experiential environment.

I understand that no specific physical, emotional, spiritual, psychological, financial, relational, or life outcome is guaranteed.

I acknowledge that my experience and results may vary based on my personal history, choices, participation, integration, health, and circumstances.

16. Governing Terms

I understand that this agreement represents the understanding between myself and Wild Within Retreat / The Courageous Life regarding my participation in the Retreat and, if purchased, the Optional Cape Town Pre-Trip.

If any portion of this agreement is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

By signing below or agreeing electronically, I confirm that I have read, understood, and voluntarily agree to the terms of this agreement.