Operation: Flowstate
12 Veterans & First Responders
8 Weeks Of Mental Health & Mindfulness Guidance
7 Days In The Jungle
1 Life-Changing Experience
For the first time in history, holistic healing combines with world-class jiu jitsu to create an experience like no other
And whether you’re an FNG white belt or a black belt with multiple tours, this retreat will help you find a new flow - mentally, physically and spiritually.
About OP Flowstate
-
The FlowState retreats are possibly the first events in human history holistic healing, spiritual practices and grappling training.
Okay, chances are pretty good that the Greeks or Vikings were doing some similar shit, but we don’t have any records of it, so I’m calling this the first of it’s kind.
But for real, this event goes so far beyond a jiu jitsu retreat.
Our Jiu Jitsu instructor has over 20 years of tactical leadership experience, and is active in the veteran community advocating for better mental health.
We will experience an authentic Mayan sweat lodge ceremony conducted by an indigenous Mexican medicine man.
So yea, we think it’s pretty unique.
-
We take a close look at your current schedule and routines and work together to optimize your day-to-day life. Using different holistic practices as a support, you will develop stronger habits and routines that will help you thrive during the program and beyond.
-
Our program is built on support and connection. In addition to lots of 1:1 support, you also become part of a like-minded community of fellow veterans/first responders that are on the healing journey with you.
We also bring in guest mentors from the veteran community to support you on your journey.
-
Item description
-
8 weeks of mindfulness and mental health coaching with detailed intake & onboarding, a guided curriculum, weekly group calls and community chat
1 week (all-inclusive) in-person at our partnered retreat center Balam Ha in Tulum, Mexico
-
OP: Flowstate is an all-inclusive experience starting at 4550$ USD
VAC Funding may be available with the education & training benefit. We will walk you through all the details.
-
Item description
What To Expect
-
Prepare - 4 Weeks
- detailed onboarding & intake
- mindfulness & mental health curriculum specifically for veterans and first responders: habits & routines, journaling, breathwork, embodiment practices & more
- weekly group calls
- group chat for ongoing support
-
Experience - 1 Week
7 days in person. Daily jiu jitsu (beginner friendly), movement & mobility classes with DPT Dr. David Zwoboda, yoga and meditation, breathwork. Mental health & mindfulness workshops, integration circles. Offsite outings & adventures, traditional sweat lodge, private cenote.
-
Integrate - 3 Weeks
- weekly group calls
- group chat for ongoing support
- guided curriculum for integration & reorienting
- 1:1 support for integration
The Hero’s Journey
-
Holistic Wellness
A lot of western therapies and treatment methods treat the symptom but not the root cause. We go deeper, addressing the root of PTSD and TBI and use holistic health & wellness methods that support embodied healing. From healthy habits, intentional daily routines and in-person practices like traditional sweat lodge, sound healing and breathwork and healing incommunity.
-
Yoga & Mindfulness
Yoga is more than just movement. Our curriculum invites you to explore yoga as a way of connecting mind, body, and spirit. From guided meditations, gentle breathwork and intuitive movement to profound practices like gratitude and loving kindness.
-
BJJ & Mobility
Jiu jitsu aka “murder yoga” is a huge part of what makes this experience unique. It challenges you in new ways, connect to your body and mind and find a supportive community. The jiu jitsu at OP Flowstate is for beginners - no previous experience necessary. Our expert instructors provide an inclusive and fun experience for all levels - from absolute beginners to more experienced folks. Plus, our DPT Dr. David ensures mobility and safety for all.
-
Jungle Adventures
Sure, there’s a lot of “healing” but there’s also a whole lot of adventure and play. From exploring ancient ruins, underground cenotes and pristine beaches to tropical waterparks and nights gathered around the bonfire. We know how to have fun and let lose.
The In-Person Experience
Part Holistic Wellness Summit
Part Jiu Jitsu Retreat
All For Veterans & First Responders
(& Spouses)
-
Sharpen your jiu jitsu skills with BJJ daily lessons
Learn how to take care of your body for the long haul & fix your shit with movement workshops by Doctor of Physical Therapy, David Zwoboda.
Foster a deeper connection to body and mind through transformational breathwork sessions led by yoga instructor and facilitator Cordi Zwoboda.
-
This is not your typical jiu jitsu camp, or even your typical “wellness” stuff. We’re not going to get in an ice bath or sit in an infrared sauna and sip green juice (okay, there might be an ice bath…)
This retreat is all about connection, intention and depth of experience. It’s about wellness in every sense of the word.
And through guided meditations, psychedelic breathwork, and a traditional Mayan sweat lodge ceremony you will experience that sense of wellness perhaps more deeply than you ever have before.
-
Our secluded jungle resort invites you to slow down and disconnect from the worries of the world while you immerse yourself in nature. Chill by the pool or take a dip in our private cenote, wander the lush jungle grounds and watch the sun set over the tree tops.
If you’re feeling cooped up you can take a short taxi trip to white sand beaches or into tourist-friendly Tulum town.
In addition to our stay at the retreat center, we’ll head off-site to explore ancient jungle ruins, swim in a breath-taking subterranean cenote, and stuff our faces with tacos.
-
Transportation between Cancun (Fairfield Inn & Suites by the airport - our pickup point) and our center on arranged pickup day & time
7 night stay at Balam Ha Retreat Center - tucked away in the jungles outside the noise of the city
3 delicious meals per day, cooked with love
Daily jiu jits instruction
Movement & mobility workshops by David Zwoboda, a doctor of physical therapy
Daily open mat
Yoga & meditation classes
Holotropic Breathwork Ceremony
Temezcal ceremony - a traditional Mexican sweat lodge ceremony with Quetzal Centli
2x super fun day trips
*** Flights To/From Cancun Airport NOT included
This Is For You If …
You’ve been through some tough shit—whether you're a veteran, first responder, or the spouse of one—and you're ready to heal. This is your chance to reconnect with yourself, face the challenges, and move forward stronger.
You’re done with the same old methods that never quite seem to work. You’re looking for something real—something that doesn’t just brush the surface, but goes deep.
You’re not here for a quick fix. You want lasting change, and you're ready to put in the work. You’re ready for transformation.
You’re tired of feeling stuck. It’s time to step up, take control, and break through the walls that have been holding you back.
You want real tools to handle stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma—not just more band-aids. This program is about doing the deep work, not just patching things up temporarily.
You believe in the power of community. You want to be surrounded by others who truly get it—veterans, first responders, and spouses who’ve walked the same path and are ready to heal together.
You’re ready to commit to yourself and make some serious changes in your life—no excuses. This is your time.
This Is NOT For You If …
You’re just looking for a quick fix or a magic pill to make everything better overnight. That’s not what we’re about.
You’re not ready to do the work or face your challenges. If you’re still in denial about what’s been holding you back, this isn’t for you.
You want to keep talking about your problems without taking any real action. We’re here to push you out of your comfort zone, not let you stay stuck.
You’re looking for a “one-size-fits-all” solution. This is about personal effort, commitment, and going deeper than you ever have before.
You’re not open to stepping out of your comfort zone. Healing comes when you push yourself beyond what’s familiar—and this program will take you there.
You’re not ready to invest in yourself. If you’re waiting for someone else to do the heavy lifting, we’re not the right fit. You’ve got to show up for yourself.
About Operation Flowstate 2025
FAQs
Can I join if I'm still on active duty?
Yes! If you’re still active duty, we welcome you. This program is designed to support those still serving, so you can heal and grow without waiting for retirement.
What if I'm a spouse of a veteran or first responder?
Absolutely! We know the challenges of supporting a partner with PTSD or trauma. This program is for you too—whether you’re navigating the effects at home or on your own healing journey.
Do I need BJJ experience to join?
No prior Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience is required. This is about healing, and we’ll guide you through the basics. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, you’ll get something out of the training.Is the program online or in person?
The course is 8 weeks online, with a live retreat in Mexico in the middle. The online portion prepares you for the retreat as well as supports your integration.
What about prescription medication?
If you're on medication, no worries—we’ll work with you on how to integrate this into your healing. Our focus is on helping you manage stress and trauma with tools that work alongside whatever treatment you’re receiving.
Do I need a passport for the retreat?
Yes, you will need a passport with at least 6 months validity for traveling.
Refund & Cancellation Policy
There are many logistics in planning Operation: Flowstate so we must apply the following refund & cancellation policy.
Please be sure to review this policy before applying.
A $1000 USD deposit is required to secure your spot at the time of signing up. This amount counts towards your total bill; the remaining balance is due before the in-person experience.
The deposit is non-refundable. The only instance in which a refund will be issued, minus processing fees, is if you can personally find someone to substitute in for your spot.
In extreme cases, we are open to discussing alternative options. We can consider moving your payment to a different retreat or service with us.
If for any reason we have to cancel, your payment will be refunded in full, minus credit card processing fees.
*Please note that this refund policy applies only to the cost of Operation: Flowstate - other costs such as transportation, flights, visas etc. are the responsibility of the participant.