WELCOME TO ASCEND RETREATS
Share the cutting-edge science of wellness, coupled with evidence-based holistic practices, to empower women in optimizing their health and well-being.
Amplify the voices of the world's most renowned female physicians and scientists, and provide direct access to their teachings in intimate and inspiring locations around the world.
Create a community of women who leave our retreats relaxed, empowered, and inspired to share their insights with patients, clients, or their communities.
DR. NATASHA RAJA VARLEY
Board-Certified Physician
Certified Life Coach
Women's Health Advocate
MEET NATASHA
I believe in a world where women are seen, heard, and supported—where they can face their fears and dare to live boldly. As a physician, healer, and advocate, I am dedicated to creating spaces for women to heal, connect, and transform, emerging with the tools and clarity to build a more balanced, purpose-filled life.
For over 20 years, I worked as a pediatric hospitalist, clinical leader, and physician mentor. My journey has also taken me across the globe, volunteering as a pediatrician in Guatemala, Barbuda, Thailand, Haiti, Nepal, Kenya, and Jordan. Yet, through it all, I carried the weight of a legacy that dismissed the stories of women. Born into a lineage where women were silenced and forgotten, I made it my mission to break that cycle—giving others a voice and, along the way, finding my own.
At the end of 2022, my world shifted dramatically. Caring for my child with a chronic illness and my mother with Parkinson’s dementia left me physically and emotionally depleted. Anxiety, depression, and physical ailments became part of my daily life. When my daughter was discharged after a long hospitalization and my mother’s life came to a peaceful close, I made the life-changing decision to step away from clinical medicine.
This pivotal moment led me to deeply explore mind-body health and menopause, beginning my own healing journey. A life-changing retreat experience taught me the importance of resetting, prioritizing self-care, and creating a plan for holistic wellness. By incorporating mindfulness, movement, and the science of wellbeing, I regained my health and clarity.
Today, I am thriving with a new sense of balance and fueled by a passion to support women navigating similar challenges. At 52, I’ve come to understand the perfect storm many women face: juggling careers, raising children, supporting aging parents, and weathering the profound shifts of menopause.
I created Ascend Retreats for women like me—those who excel at caring for others but struggle to care for themselves. Ascend is a space for transformation, where women can reset, rediscover their passions, and build a legacy of balance, strength, and purpose.
Together, we can rise—leaving behind a story that no one can erase.
"We create intimate, luxury retreats that feature prominent women in science, combining their teachings with holistic practices to nourish mind, body and soul."
Natasha Raja Varley, MD
Founder of Ascend Retreats
MEET OUR EXPERTS
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DR. SUZANNE GILBERG-LENZ
Board Certified OBGYN
Menopause Specialist
Integrative & Ayurvedic Medicine
DR. CORINNE MENN
Board Certified OBGYN
Menopause Specialist
Breast Cancer Survivorship
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DR. KELLY CASPERSON
Board Certified Urologist
Menopause Specialist
Sexual Wellness Expert
EMPOWERING WOMEN, BUILDING COMMUNITIES
At Ascend Retreats, we believe in the transformative power of women supporting women. That’s why 10% of our profits go directly to the Changemaker Scholarship Fund—a program dedicated to uplifting and empowering women leaders.
Our mission extends beyond hosting luxury wellness retreats. While we provide science-backed insights from industry experts to help women take charge of their health, we also strive to foster connections and inspire attendees to share this knowledge within their own communities.
We understand that our retreats are premium experiences. Through the Changemaker Scholarship Fund, we aim to recognize and support the incredible women in our community who are making a difference. Together, we’re creating a ripple effect of empowerment—one woman and one community at a time.
DIVERSITY & INCLUSION
We are committed to building a diverse community of nature lovers and growth seekers. We prioritize creating a safe and inclusive environment where individuals feel welcome, respected, and valued. We do not discriminate based on race, nationality, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, religion, age, or ability.
SUSTAINABILITY
We hold our retreats in luxury resorts that practice sustainability. We also encourage retreat attendees to make donations to offset the carbon footprint for travel to and from the venue.
