Happiness Retreat: Multi-Sensory Healing Experience

July 9 - 13, 2025

Your mind and your senses will open up to JOY in ways you couldn’t have even imagined.

Hosted by The Legal Mentor Network and Lead with Compassion, the Lawyer Leadership Summit is an exclusive invite-only event for general counsels, law firm executives, and legal tech CEOs that offers engaging sessions and practical workshops while including ample time for cultural experiences, enjoyment, and networking to develop personal and professional relationships.

The experience will lead to a memorable start to summer, contacts to enhance your career, and the opportunity to build genuine friendships in the field.

Get ready to enhance your leadership abilities, reap the benefits of an authentic Italian experience, and learn to drive positive change in the legal profession through compassion.

Participate in leadership training, learn to work through professional challenges, discover how Greek mythology makes us better leaders, visit the best beaches of Southern Italy, and leave with lasting memories of a part of Italy untouched by mass tourism!

Learn more

Host:

Happiness Sangha

Created and Facilitated by Elizabeth Pyjov

“I've felt joyful every day since retreat! Thank you for everything you did to make my experience, as well as that of others, so much fun and peaceful. Looking forward to next year!”

—Martha Ray

“The most amazing experience of my life in the most beautiful place. My eternal gratitude to Happiness Sangha.”

—Sharon Townsend

“I would tell someone that it’s mostly inexplicable and that it’s an experience of a lifetime…. Each experience we had was a new favorite… I will remember feeling warmth, kindness, openness, and self-compassion.” — Donna Markell

“I loved that everything was already planned (with options!). I didn't expend any mental energy on logistics or planning, which allowed me to fully relax and be immersed in the experience. The accommodations, meals and excursions were stellar and it was gratifying to experience Elizabeth's brilliant teachings in person with this incredible community. I give it 12 stars out of 10⭐!”

—Karla Sirotnik

You’ll feel rejuvenated, connected, and like you have gone on a magical adventure.

WHAT

An All-Inclusive Experience in an Italian Paradise for 5 days with:

Opportunity to Deepen Your Meditaton Practice
3 Healthy, Farm-to-Table, Delicious Meals a Day
Relaxation for the Body and Mind
Ancient Greek Myths
Daily Heart-Opening and Self-Compassion
Italian Poetry and Introduction to Italian History and Culture
Quality Time with Elizabeth Pyjov

WHERE

Southern Italy is paradise in the summer.

Everyone knows the famous island of Capri. Lesser known is the next island over called Ischia. It is as beautiful if not more so, and tourists haven't discovered it (yet).

On the island of Ischia you can get the authentic Italian experience.

Ischia is amazing because it combines a deep history– it's the first place where Ancient Greeks landed when they moved to Italy– lovely towns, beautiful vegetation and nature, the sparkling Mediterranean sea, friendly people, and natural thermal hot springs that are healing for the mind and body.

Testimonials: Happiness Retreat in 2024

“Happiness Retreat was life-changing for me. I can't believe how serene I now feel in the midst of very real difficulty in my life.
So grateful!”

—Anne Webster

“I laughted a lot while I was there! My whole being felt light.”

—Lea Sagan

“You just created something unbelievable. Magical, spiritual, perfect. I loved every minute of the trip, especially the location, the activities, the lessons, the poetry, the meals, and the connection between us all. We all felt the same way — it was just beautiful. A group of strangers got together and all got along with so much ease. I could sit with anyone and have an amazing conversation. I have no words to describe this magical experience. I wouldn’t change anything. Thank you, Elizabeth, for using your gifts to help spread joy to the world.”

—Diana Jeffrey

“I am grateful for every day here. Every day is better than the last. It's unfathomable that that's even possible. It's like a tropical paradise but with Italian sophistication and Italian food! The care Elizabeth puts into it is incredible.”

—Julia Lehrman

EXPERIENCE CURATED BY:
ELIZABETH PYJOV, J.D. MTS

B.A. Harvard College, Romance Languages and Literatures

‍Certification Stanford Medical School, Neuroscience, Philosophy, Pedagogy of Compassion

J.D. Harvard Law School

MTS Harvard Divinity School, Theology Degree

New York City Bar Well-being Committee Member

WHY ELIZABETH PYJOV

Elizabeth Pyjov is fluent in Italian and spent a part of my life living in Italy, including a significant amount of time in Ischia.

Her academic background is Ancient Greek, Latin, and a Romance Language and Literatures undergraduate degree from Harvard.

She can't wait to share my love of Italian poetry and knowledge of Italian culture with you!

Elizabeth is a lawyer, thought leader, speaker, and CEO who holds 3 Harvard degrees, speaks 5 languages, has lived in 7 countries, and studied neuroscience at Stanford Medical School.

Her professional experience spans being a funds attorney at Sidley Austin, policy work at the United Nations, conducting legal investigations for the New York Attorney General's Office, marketing for Italy's top television station RAI in Rome, and working as a literary translator for Italian Nobel prize-winning author Dario Fo.

“Happiness Retreat in Ischia was one of the best experiences of my life. The most enlightening and empowering experience I’ve ever had!”

—Sharmila Sani

Elizabeth combines what she learned about ritual and meaning at Harvard Divinity School, her literature degree from Harvard College, the rigor of Harvard Law School, and her time studying with the Dalai Lama to think outside the box and address modern challenges in the legal world.

She currently runs 3 organizations: Lead with Compassion, Self-Compassion for Lawyers, and Happiness Sangha.

Elizabeth Pyjov's clients include Columbia Law School, The Carlyle Group, Bessemer Ventures, the Library of Congress, Ropes & Gray, Weil Gotshal, Perkins Coie, the New York State Bar Association, and the New York State Supreme Court. She regularly lectures at Harvard Law School.

HEALING AND CHANGING PATTERNS

In a new environment, it is easier to release our patterns.

When trying new foods, experiencing beauty with the senses, and connecting to the warmth and friendliness of others– we gather energy and heal.

Ischia is a place that feels healing to me, so I want to share it with you.

“I spent years living in Italy, and the food in Ischia is the most delicious Italian food I’ve ever had.”

— Elizabeth Pyjov

L’amore si misura in piatti cucinati – Love is measured in cooked dishes (Italian Proverb)

All the food for the duration of your stay is included. We will eat fresh fruits, vegetables, pasta, and salads plus meat, seafood, and fish, with vegan and vegetarian options available.

Special dietary requests can be accommodated.

A lot of the food we will be eating is grown at the garden at the villa

LOCATION

We'll be staying at a beautiful Italian villa with pools of healing mineral hot springs right there on the ground floor, as well as a sauna, Turkish bath, and spa, with the most beautiful view of the island on the rooftop terrace, which will be all ours.

You can lounge in the jacuzzi on the terrace, enjoy an Aperol spritz in the courtyard, and have traditional Italian multi-course meals in the dining room.

There are daily maid and touch-up services.

You can have your own room and bathroom, or share a room and bathroom with one other person (either of your choosing or we’ll pair you).

WHAT’S UNIQUE

Non-tourist Italian experience.
Like living in a warm Italian family.
Daily meditation will help you feel alive, connected, and relaxed.
Culture will meet contemplative practices here, as we'll be using Greek mythology and Italian poetry as a way of reaching understanding and opening the heart.
It will be a mind-body experience.
We'll connect to pleasure and the senses.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Swimming in the Mediterranean
Walking through charming Italian downtowns
The most beautiful gardens you’ll ever see
Farm-to-table meals and traditional multi-course dinners
Thermal springs each morning and night that will relax your whole body and soften your skin

MEDITATION

We'll do a morning meditation and an evening meditation each day, and our practice wil span mindfulness, compassion, self-compassion, connecting to the senses, and finding joy.

GREEK GODS AND GODDESSES

The culture of Ischia is interconnected with an Ancient Greek influence.
The Greek gods and goddesses have a lot ot teach us, and we'll explore that mythology and its meaning together.

“According to Ancient Greek legend, the island of Ischia in the Bay of Napoles was created when Zeus and the Titan monster Tifeo clashed.”

— Elizabeth Pyjov

Local Experience

The owner of the villa we'll be stayting in owns an organic fruit and vegetable farm, and the food we'll be eating is sourced from there.

“Hi Elizabeth, thank you again for organizing and leading the retreat in Ischia. I am so glad I was able to participate. I feel refreshed and energized and able to experience each moment with an open heart and mind. The meditation retreat was spectacular. Your hard work, thought, and love that you put into this clearly came through.”

—Darin Arita

“This was my first time exposed to Happiness Sangha and Elizabeth Pyjov's work. All of Elizabeth's teachings are so powerful. The biggest gift was growing spiritually and emotionally, and opening up my senses. This moved me profoundly, in ways that I couldn't have imagined. I'm so grateful for the experience. It allowed me to connect to the beauty of the surroundings, and also with myself and other people. I’m still feeling the positive effects!”

— Emily Ittes

“It's an experience that stayed with me- it's still giving me a lot. I felt like I needed to get that infusion of joy and reconnect to my joyful side that had been turned off. This was like medicine… I am still feeling the joy now!”

—Paola Quintero

ITINERARY

DAY 1

Arrive on the island of Ischia on a one-hour boat ride from Naples
Aperol spritz or mineral water to refresh you
Welcome Lunch
Soak in the jacuzzi on the rooftop, enjoying the view of the volcano
Italian Poetry Series
Mindfulness Meditation Practice
Introduction to the History and Mythology of the Island of Ischia
5-course dinner with wine
Night soak in the thermal hot springs for relaxation

DAY 2

Morning soak in the thermal pools
Buffet breakfast with omelettes, fresh fruit, homemade jams, and breads baked that morning
Morning cappuccino
Morning Yoga Practice
Morning Mindfulness Practice
Trip to the beautiful San Montano beach
Lunch on the beach
Visit to the famous Negombo Park
Return to the villa, free time
Ancient Greek Myths Introduction and Italian Poetry Series
Evening Self-Compassion Meditation Practice
5-course Dinner with wine
Option to take an evening walk through the city of Lacco Ameno and get some local gelato

DAY 3

Morning soak in the thermal pools
Buffet Breakfast with omelettes, fresh fruit, homemade jams and breads baked that morning
Morning cappuccino
Morning Walking Meditation and Sitting Meditation Practice
Self-guided visit to the Giardini La Mortella, the most beautiful gardens I've ever seen
Lunch in the gardens
Self-guided visit to the Forio Spiaggia di San Francesco beach nearby
Free time back at the villa to siesta or sunbathe on the rooftop, soak in the thermal waters, or sip an Aperol spritz on the terrace
Mindful Turkish Bath Ritual
Italian Poetry Series and Ancient Greek Myths Immersion
Evening Compassion Practice
5-course dinner with wine
After dinner option to explore the beautiful town of Forio at night

DAY 4

Morning soak in the thermal pools
Buffet breakfast with omelettes, fresh fruit, homemade jams and breads baked that morning
Visit to the Castello Arogonese (Castle Arogonese) built 500 BC, a former abbey of Basilian monks with Eastern Orthodox art
Free time back at the villa
Optional time to go shopping in the town Lacco Ameno
Interactive leadership training
Boat ride around the island
Italian poetry series
5-course dinner with wine and special desserts
Night of live music at the villa to celebrate our last evening together

DAY 5

Morning soak in the thermal pools
Buffet breakfast with omelettes, fresh fruit, homemade jams, and breads baked that morning
Training on mentoring the next generation of leaders
Closing summit session: achievements and future endeavours
Soaking in thermal hot springs at the villa one more time
Lunch to take with you
Boat to Naples
Transfer to airport or train station in Naples

“Thank you so much for this Happiness Retreat. ❤️ The moment I decided to commit to it, it became my North Star for the summer and it’s been a soothing beam since. Elizabeth, the combination elements you wove together couldn’t have been more beautiful. The dance night was so special with everyone there.”

—Elizabeth Ferry

“Wonderful… eye-opening, life-changing. Thank you, Elizabeth. The whole retreat was delightful in every way.”

—Barbara Contini

“Elizabeth, I wanted to thank you so much for a wonderful retreat, for your kindness and inspiration, and for organizing everything so incredibly well. I feel very grateful and blessed. 🪷”

—Irina Cornaciu

“All my needs and desires were met without my having to lift a finger… All logistics, excursions, meals, meditations, relaxation at my fingertips. I don’t think I would change anything….Today someone commented on the visibly apparent smoothness of my skin! Thank you Ischia — especially the thermal waters. I loved having the spa accessible downstairs 24/7”

—Stephanie Lawal

“Thank you so much for encouraging me to step outside my comfort zone and attend this retreat… I got everything I thought I would and so much MORE!!!!”

—Latoya White

Value

5-Day Meditation Retreat - $1,380
Italian Poetry Immersion Series - $300
Ancient Greek Myths Psychologically Explained - $300
Restorative Yoga on the Roof and Mindful Movement - $200
Excursions around the Island Organized by Elizabeth - $750
Short and enjoyable daily Italian lessons with Elizabeth - $50
Opportunity to ask Elizabeth questions informally for 5 days - $300
Pick up from the airport and drop off at the airport - $100
Boat from Naples to Ischia two ways - $120
Transportation all over the island during your stay - $150
Room - $895
Lunch Each Day - $150
Night of Music - $50
Not thinking about anything and not planning - $500
Joy and Energy for Months to Come - Priceless

Total: $5,245

$5,245

The whole experience is $2,850 if you share a room(two beds and private bathroom for two), or $3,850 for your own private room and bathroom

INCLUDED

All activities of 5-day leadership summit
5 nights with a private room and a private bathroom in a beautiful hotel villa
Unique local wines
Excursions around the island
Pick up from the airport and drop off at the airport
Boat from Naples to Ischia two ways
Transportation all over the island during your stay
Everything is planned for you and everything is included
All activities are optional and you get to make your schedule each day

This Team Will Welcome You

CURRICULUM

4-Part Curriculum:

1) Self-Compassion and Joy Practice

2) Compassionate connection to others

3) Best of Italian poetry throughout history to inspire you give you a cultural connection to the place

4) Healing effects of Ancient Greek mythology and how the structures myths give us can transform our subconscious

“As I board the flight my heart is full of gratitude for Elizabeth and for having met the group.”

—Pranjal Shah

“The retreat was magical! Elizabeth — thank you for introducing me to the Ischia spirit, and new people and energy into my life. I ended up staying for an entire week longer and it was so healing and rejuvenating. Just what I needed at this moment. I am truly grateful. ❤️”

—Klara Crean

“Our time together in Ischia was so healing and inspiring for me. I haven’t created music in years, and this retreat moved me to release some new music for the first time since 2009. So grateful for the incredible time in Ischia, and I am so grateful for the energy the retreat continues to give me. What an amazing experience! I look forward to seeing all who come back next year and many of the attendees all over the world”

—Alicia Matthewson

“Thank you again for the retreat. It was a compassionate wonderland dream. I’m grateful to you. Have a beautiful night.”

—Michael Dent

YOUR CONTRIBUTION

Everything in the Value section above is included from the time we pick you up at the airport, to the time you leave Ischia. Plus 5-course dinner each day, a sumptuous breakfast buffet, lunch daily, wine at dinner, Aperol spritz upon arrival, opportunity to deepen your meditation practice, daily mindful movement and ability to not plan or think about anything for your entire stay.

*To do this trip, you'll need to be able to climb stairs.

Private Room and Bathroom - $3,850

$1,000 by August 31
$1,425 due on December 1
$1,425 due on June 1

Shared Room & Bathroom with One Roommate - $2,850

$1,000 by August 31
$925 due on December 1
$925 due on June 1

Dates: July 9 - 13, 2024

Place: Ischia in Italy, one of the most beautiful, radiant places you'll ever visit

Directions: Fly into the airport in Naples, Italy. There is a direct flight New York - Naples, for example. There are also flights to Rome and then train rides to Naples.

Why: Health, Happiness, Connection, Relaxing, Shift in Patterns, Strengthening of Meditation Practice, Opening the Senses, Joy and Energy that Will Last For Months

Facilitator: Elizabeth Pyjov

Prerequisite: In order to attend, you need to have taken at least 10 weeks of Elizabeth Pyjov’s in person or virtual classes. You can register if you haven’t, as long as you commit to completing 10 weeks of the Happiness Programs that speak to you most. You will get access to them at a discounted rate. As you complete the classes, your life will start changing even before the retreat.

DETAILS

“We’re planning a program with the best food, the best excursions, and the best experience for connecting, resting, and enjoying the summer – in a way that will give you energy all year long!”