Reset in the Red Rocks.
SEDONA RETREAT
2026
A Six-Day Immersion in Health, Movement, and Meaning.
An Immersion in Health & Perspective
Set against Sedona's iconic red rock landscape, this retreat blends evidence-based nutrition, daily movement, reflection, and community connection into one transformative week.
Here, education is lived. Meals are shared. Trails become conversations. And clarity emerges — not just about what to eat, but how to live.
Medical & Nutritional Education
In-depth sessions covering the science behind PLANTSTRONG living, led by leading physicians and researchers.
Evidence-Based & Inspiring
Rooted in real science, real success stories, and practical tools you can immediately apply to your life.
Lasting Transformation
Build a solid foundation for ongoing success with the inspiration and know-how to sustain the lifestyle long-term.
"In just a few days, my blood pressure dropped, my energy soared, and I realized that eating this way is not only possible—it's joyful."
— 2024 Retreat Attendee
Why Sedona Is Different
Sedona is not just a backdrop. It changes the pace of your thinking.
- Morning light over the red rocks.
- Shared meals under desert skies.
- Conversations that go deeper than small talk.
This week is designed to slow you down long enough to make meaningful change.
Hear From Our Attendees
Real stories from past retreat participants
"I learned more about nutrition and lifestyle medicine in one week than I have in years of doctor visits."
— 2024 Retreat Attendee
Join the Community
Spend the week learning, connecting, and growing alongside the Esselstyns and fellow changemakers.
Learn by Doing
Live cooking demos and practical instruction to help you recreate nourishing meals at home.
Eat Abundantly
Chef-crafted, whole-food meals that prove healthy living is generous, satisfying, and joyful.
In This 6-Day Retreat, You'll Discover:
The Plant Strong Framework
A clear, science-backed roadmap to prevent—and in many cases reverse—chronic disease while improving cholesterol, blood pressure, and insulin sensitivity.
Real-Life Recipes
Inspiring, practical meals you'll actually make at home. Every attendee receives a curated recipe collection.
Sustainable Habits
Simple daily practices that build momentum and make consistency feel natural—not forced.
Food as Powerful Medicine
How whole-food, plant-based nutrition protects your heart and transforms long-term health.
Meet Your Presenters
Your Speakers
Meet Your Host
RIP ESSELSTYN
New York Times Best Selling Author
Founder of PLANTSTRONG
Rip Esselstyn spent a decade as one of the premier triathletes in the world. He then joined the Austin Fire Department where he introduced his passion for a whole-food, plant-based diet. As the founder of PLANTSTRONG, Rip develops and implements a range of programs and events geared toward inspiring and nurturing PLANTSTRONG living.
Jane Esselstyn
Author, Speaker
Dr. Doug Lisle
Author, Speaker
Adam Sud
Speaker
Dr. Brian Asbill
Cardiologist, Speaker
Dr. Elizabeth Winings
Nurse Practitioner, Speaker
Cyrus Khambatta, PhD
NYT Bestselling Author, Mastering Diabetes
Darlene Staheli
Culinary Director
Sheron Foster
Yoga Instructor
What's Included
5 Nights Retreat Accommodations
Clean, minimalist rooms designed for rest, reflection, and simplicity.
Abundant Whole-Food Meals
Generous, chef-prepared meals made from real, whole plants.
Daily Guided Hikes
Explore Sedona's iconic red rock trails with experienced guides.
Morning & Afternoon Yoga
Grounded movement sessions framed by open sky and desert views.
Evidence-Based Education
Physician-led sessions on nutrition, lifestyle, and metabolic health.
Daily Cooking Demos
Learn practical techniques to recreate nourishing meals at home.
CME Accreditation
16.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™
Accredited for physicians through MAHEC & SSCC
This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Southern States CME Collaborative (SSCC) through the joint providership of Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC) and PLANTSTRONG. MAHEC is accredited by the SSCC to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
Credit Designation: MAHEC designates this live activity for a maximum of 16.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
The Rhythm of the Week
Monday, Sept 28
- 3:00 PM - Check-in
- 5:00 PM - Welcome Circle
- 6:00 PM - Opening Dinner
- 7:30 PM - Sunset Meditation
Tues-Fri, Sept 29 - Oct 2
- 7:00 AM - Morning Workout
- 8:00 AM - Breakfast
- 9:00 AM - Educational Sessions
- 12:00 PM - Lunch
- 3:00 PM - Free Time
- 6:00 PM - Dinner
- 7:30 PM - Evening Program
Saturday, Oct 3
- 7:00 AM - Group Hike
- 8:00 AM - Breakfast
- 10:00 AM - Closing Ceremony
- 11:30 AM - Departure
Frequently Asked Questions
What airport should I fly into?
We recommend flying into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, especially if you plan to use a shuttle service to the retreat.
You may also fly into Flagstaff Pulliam Airport, but a rental car will be required from there.
- Phoenix Sky Harbor → ~2 hours to Sedona Mago
- Flagstaff → ~90 minutes to Sedona Mago
How do I get to Sedona after I land?
We recommend using Groome Transportation, which offers door-to-door shuttle service from Phoenix Sky Harbor directly to the Sedona Mago Center.
đź“ž Call: 928-350-8466 to reserve your seat in advance
Rental cars are also a great option if you prefer flexibility.
What time should I arrive and depart?
Arrival:
- Aim to land in Phoenix by 11:00 AM
- Grab lunch at the airport
- Depart by 12:00 PM via shuttle or rental car
This timing ensures a smooth arrival to the retreat.
Departure:
- The retreat concludes by 11:00 AM on the final day
- Shuttles typically depart around that time
- We recommend booking return flights after 3:00 PM
What should I pack?
Think comfortable, casual, and layered.
- Lightweight clothing for warm daytime temperatures
- Layers for cool mornings and evenings
- Comfortable walking or hiking shoes
- A large reusable water bottle
- Optional: journal, hat, sunscreen
And most importantly — bring an open mind.
Do I need to be "in shape" to attend?
You don't need to be an athlete — but you should feel comfortable participating in light to moderate daily activity. To help ensure you have the best possible experience, we ask that all participants are able to confidently do the following without assistance:
- Participate in both indoor and outdoor movement sessions
- Walk for up to 60 minutes, including on uneven terrain (gravel paths, inclines, no railings)
- Navigate the retreat campus and manage daily activities independently
This allows you to fully engage in everything the retreat offers at your own pace.
If you're unsure, we're happy to talk it through with you.
Is this retreat CME accredited?
Yes! This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Southern States CME Collaborative (SSCC) through the joint providership of Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC) and PLANTSTRONG. MAHEC is accredited by the SSCC to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
Credit Designation: MAHEC designates this live activity for a maximum of 16.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
What is the cancellation and refund policy?
We understand that plans can change. Because our retreats require significant advance planning and financial commitments, the following cancellation policy applies to all registrations:
Cancellations received more than 60 days before the retreat
Your deposit or registration payment is refundable, less a $150 nonrefundable cancellation fee for credit card processing and administrative handling.
Cancellations received within 60 days of the retreat
Plant Strong is unable to provide refunds within 60 days of an event. If you cancel during this period, we will issue a credit equal to 50% of the amount paid, which may be applied toward a future Plant Strong event.
Registration transfers
You may transfer your registration to another person at any time. A friend or family member may attend in your place, but the registration must remain with the event for which it was originally purchased. Transfers between events are not permitted.
How to request a cancellation or transfer
Email events@plantstrong.com as soon as possible and include your full name, the email address used to register, and the retreat for which you registered. You may also contact us at (512) 815-3322.
If Plant Strong cancels the retreat
Plant Strong reserves the right to cancel the retreat for any reason. If Plant Strong cancels the event, all registration payments will be returned to registrants.
Please read this cancellation and refund policy carefully before registering. By completing your registration, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to the Plant Strong cancellation and refund policy.
The Location
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona's dramatic red sandstone formations create a landscape unlike anywhere else in the country. Many visitors describe a unique sense of clarity and calm here. Whether you come for the trails, the views, or the quiet, the setting amplifies reflection and renewal.
Investment in Transformation
"The average American spends over $5,000 per year managing chronic disease. This is five days that may change what you spend for years to come."
Shared Accommodations
$4,495
Double occupancy room
- 5 nights retreat accommodations
- Generous meals made from whole plants
- Daily guided hikes
- Morning and afternoon yoga
- Pickleball
- Full educational program
- Daily cooking demonstrations
- Evening programs
- Lifetime Community Access
Single Occupancy
$4,995
Private room
- 5 nights retreat accommodations
- Generous meals made from whole plants
- Daily guided hikes
- Morning and afternoon yoga
- Pickleball
- Full educational program
- Daily cooking demonstrations
- Evening programs
- Lifetime Community Access
- Private Room
*Contact us for refund policy details
Experience Sedona
Join us for a transformative week in one of the world's most beautiful landscapes
Questions? Email us at events@plantstrong.com