Shepherd U Holdings presents
Opening a World of Grace
The Sentinel
September 3 to September 9
This transformative seven-day, six-night retreat features three traditional plant medicine ceremonies, guided by The Sentinel’s founders and co-CEOs. These ceremonies are designed to open the mind to expanded states of consciousness, cleanse physical and energetic impurities, and foster deep inner healing. The sacred combination of plant medicines not only purifies but also illuminates, revealing pathways to profound visions and insights.
Your journey is supported by a comprehensive integration process, including a three-call pre-retreat coursework series and a three-call post-retreat integration series, spanning August to October to help you fully embody the experience. You’ll also participate in a guided 15-day detox cleanse and receive two months of access to all SUH weekly offerings, including yoga, Yoga Nidra, breathwork, and meditation.
The Location
Kootenay Lake in British Columbia is a place of deep healing and spiritual significance, where water, mountains, forests, and air unite to restore balance to the body, mind, and spirit. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of British Columbia’s rugged peaks, dense cedar forests, and pristine waters, the lake offers more than just tranquility—it is a sanctuary for renewal. Whether through physical immersion, quiet reflection, or deep energetic connection, visitors experience a profound sense of peace and transformation, reconnecting with both nature and themselves.
The Sentinel
Nestled on the serene shores of Kootenay Lake in Kaslo, British Columbia, The Sentinel offers guest rooms that blend simplicity with elegance, creating the perfect space to unwind and recharge. Each room features a beautifully appointed bed, heated en suite floors, a desk, a closet, and stunning lake or mountain views. Rooms can be configured with two singles or one king, and pet-friendly options are available. At the heart of the property is the Maloca, a breathtaking timber-framed roundhouse designed for intimate gatherings and transformative experiences. Nourishing, lovingly crafted meals cater to all dietary preferences, turning every bite into a culinary delight.

The Facilitators
The Sentinel’s founders and co-CEOs, Gillian Maxwell and Richard Kay, embody a powerful partnership in both marriage and life.
“We see The Sentinel as a custodian—a wise presence that watches over the land and cares for all who spend time on this beautiful property.” We believe the path to self-discovery is unique for everyone. Whether building resilient leadership through jazz or finding joy in conscious movement, we look forward to being part of your journey.
Gillian is a profound force of healing and insight, embodying wisdom in medicine and human development. A sage, loving mother, and beautiful spirit, she creates sacred spaces where being seen and known fosters deep connection. With a fierce heart and precise focus, she channels diverse modalities for growth and healing. Her compassion and generosity illuminate transformative paths for others.
Richard is a dynamic presence where anything feels possible. Embodying the Divine Masculine, he is a fierce protector and loyal friend, dedicated to serving others. His belief in human goodness inspires people to recognize their potential. Comfortable with both the seen and unseen, he brings clarity from ancient wisdom, always kind, generous, and true to himself. A defender of the Divine Feminine, Richard’s unconditional love and joy radiate, making him a force of nature who inspires connection and creativity.

YOUR TUITION
$8,900 CAD / $6,500 USD
ONE-TIME
Save 4% on the cost of the retreat by paying in full. Secure your spot by placing a $1,500 deposit and complete your tuition through one-time payment by April 1, 2025.
$9.256 CAD / $6,760 USD
PAYMENT PLAN
Create a payment plan over time. Secure your spot by placing a $1,500 deposit and schedule a call with our team to negotiate a rate of pay that works for you.
Participant Testimonials
Diego
The expansion of my heart and being from attending last weekend's retreat keeps moving me to tears. The capacity to experience love and accept myself as I am continues to expand beyond what my mind thought possible. My heart is open. I am humbled by God's/the Universe's grace with me.
Tracy
In my life, I really orchestrate everything around my clients. I give my partner hell about certain ways that he works with our clients because I want to protect them from being upset or being bothered. And it lands in my body. I'm in pain all the time of some sort or the other... And, the short story is, I'm completely pain free today. I mean... this was just not predictable.
Maureen
My experience has been one of literally being broken open. I was a slab of concrete walking into this place. And I'm not that anymore... My heart was broken so long ago by things that happened in my life, things that I has dealt with in therapy, but they were still in my body and I was just so rigid. And, I'm willing to give my heart, fully, to anyone now. I feel so free. That's just the best way to describe it.