Women Physician Wellness

at Nicasio Creek Farm

“Powerful, inspirational and transformative!!! Jessie Mahoney is nothing but phenomenal, wise, bright and fun. - Dr. Michelle, ICU, Cleveland Clinic

Bask in natural beauty

Melt away your stress. Rest, restore, rejuvenate.

Nourish yourself with nature, experiential lifestyle medicine, and transformational mindset coaching.

““Approximately 1000X better than any CME I have ever done.” - Dr. Cyndi Speelman

Potent Medicine for Mind, Body, and Soul

“I cannot recommend this retreat more highly.

Through the coaching, the camaraderie with the other female physicians, and the time for introspection, I was able to uncover the things that were making me feel frustrated, angry and stuck.

It’s been 1 month since I attended and the lessons I learned on the retreat continue to make both my work life and my home life more fulfilling and less chaotic.

Do yourself a favor and go!”

- Dr. Jen Anderson, Neonatologist

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Nestled between Napa and Point Reyes National Seashore,

an hour north of San Francisco, and down the road from Spirit Rock Meditation Center, is a magical 4-acre micro-farm

“The minute you step out of the car and smell the amazing aroma of the trees and fresh air, you know this place is special.”

-Dr. Jenny D, Pediatrics

“I have never been this completely engaged in a CME activity in 15 years in medicine.”

- Dr. Natasha DS, Emergency MD, Canada

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These experiences are not another conference.

They are more than a “retreat”

They are unlike anything you have done before (unless you are one of the many coming back again.)

These immersions are specifically curated to help you

rest, restore, reenergize, and reimagine your life and career.

Nicasio Creek Farm was purpose-built, explicitly designed to support transformation, connection, and healing experiences for physicians.

Each retreat has a maximum of six other like-minded women physicians who generally crave alignment, ease, peace, more fun, connection, and energy.

You will leave empowered with clarity, tools, and the courage to move forward differently.

“I came the first time on the verge of burnout and I learned how to stop my spiral into burnout succesfully.

I returned a second time in a different headspace. I am leaving with a changed story sp I can pivot into doing more of what I love in medicine and in life.” - Dr. Yvonne J, Pediatrics

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Group of people participating in an outdoor yoga or meditation class on a wooden deck surrounded by trees.
A person sitting alone on a tree stump in a grassy area, facing a large yellow and green tree with an outdoor fence and dense trees in the background.
A person with dreadlocks is sitting on a beige armchair, reading a book in a bright living room with large windows showing green trees outside.
Six women sitting around a wooden dining table, smiling and chatting, with plates, glasses, and a floral centerpiece, in a cozy dining room.
Yoga mats and cushions arranged on a wooden floor in a yoga studio with a window, a doorway, and wall art.
Two women sit on a wooden deck in a grassy yard, talking and looking at papers.

Every retreat is unique.

They are tailored for the season and the specific small group of individuals present.

Your body, mind, and spirit are always nourished with 

food as medicine, farm-to-table culinary wonders, experiential mindfulness, sound healing, forest bathing, mindful, yin, and pajama yoga.

Coaching, deep connections with a small group of thoughtful and open-minded women, and time and space for reflection, journaling, and resting

are abundant.

Both introverts and extroverts, and everyone in between loves these retreats.

*Randomized controlled trials show that mindset coaching lessens burnout and emotional exhaustion and improves quality of life for physicians. The educational program is accredited for up to 12 U AMA PRA Cat 1 CME BY AKH.

*If you need an official “agenda,” tentative schedule, or a copy of the CME accreditation, click here.

UPCOMING DATES

  • “This experience is unlike any CME I have ever attended before. If you are looking for a place to rest, replenish, and reconnect with something meaningful you’ve lost and yearn to find again, this is the place for you.” - Kaveri Patel, DO, Family Medicine

  • “I loved the small, intimate nature of this experience. There was time to get to know other participants, and the small group format allowed for great discussion in a safe space. The agenda was flexible based on our needs, and there was plenty of downtime to journal, read, and reflect on what we were learning.” - ER, TPMG

  • “If you are struggling with burnout, or even a hint of it, go to this and learn to care for yourself.” - Family Practice, OR

  • “It is worth every penny! The things you will learn will help you navigate toward a life that is aligned with your core values and wishes for your future.” - Peds, Mayo Clinic

DATES & SIGN UP
Two smiling women taking a selfie on a lush green hiking trail in a mountainous area, with other hikers in the background and rolling hills covered in grass and trees.
Two women sitting in a cozy living room by a large window, engaging in conversation with mugs in hand, overlooking a backyard with a swimming pool and trees.
A group of seven people sitting around a table on a patio, under a large red umbrella, having a conversation during the daytime.
Four people relaxing in an outdoor hot tub on a backyard deck, surrounded by greenery.
A woman sitting on a beige leather armchair with her legs covered in a red blanket, reading a book or magazine at a cozy living room corner, with a floor lamp and decorative wall piece behind her.
Four smiling women outdoors with hills and trees in the background.
Three women looking up at a tall tree in a forested area.
Three women posing on a sandy beach with hills and cliffs in the background, one kneeling, one sitting, and one crouching.

“It’s magical.

Even more powerful than the gorgeous environment is Jessie’s coaching and how she brings you back to your best self.

I was ready to quit medicine two and a half years ago and Jessie guided me back. I’m heading to my third retreat soon, have done coaching, follow her YouTube and podcasts, and absolutely love what she has created.”

-Dr. Joanne Oakes, Emergency Medicine

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Dr. Jessie Mahoney

Jessie is an experienced wellness leader and exceptional coach. She is a yoga and mindfulness teacher and board-certified pediatrician. 

In 2020, after 18 years leading physician wellness for a large institution, Jessie stepped out on her own to found Pause & Presence. Her dream was to be able to help her colleagues in the ways that would help them, their patients, and medicine the absolute most.

Jessie is a graduate of Dartmouth College and UCSF Medical School. She was a pediatrician and physician leader at The Permanente Medical Group for 18 years. She was chief of physician health and wellness and a department chief. She has been leading wellness retreats since 2015 and coaching physicians full-time since 2019.

Jessie is cohost of the Healing Medicine Podcast. She is a mom of three young adult sons. She has been married to her neurodiverse high school sweetheart for over thirty years.

 “ More than the sum of it’s parts - this experience is alchemy and a crucible that you need if you are even reading this.” - ObGyn & Physician Leader, Portland

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Two women sitting at a wooden table having a conversation. One woman is gesturing with her hand, and the other is smiling with her hand near her chin. The table has bowls, cups, a book titled 'The Good Food Book,' a pen, and a vase with purple flower
A woman in sunglasses and a baseball cap reading a book while leaning on the edge of a swimming pool in a backyard surrounded by trees and greenery.
A woman sitting on a white bench outdoors in a wooded area.
Group of five people gathered in a kitchen, with a man in an apron speaking to the women. The kitchen has white cabinets, windows showing trees outside, and a countertop with plates, a bowl of oranges, and wrapped items.
View of tall trees in a forest from the ground looking up at the canopy.
A group of five women gathered in a cozy living room, engaging in a lively conversation. Some women are seated on sofas, and one woman is standing clapping. The room features a large window revealing a backyard with outdoor furniture and umbrellas, a
Six women hiking on a trail in a green, hilly landscape with clouds in the sky.
Four women smiling for a selfie outdoors near the coast with cliffs and the ocean in the background.
An older woman with sunglasses talking to a younger person in a white hat, both sitting outdoors on orange cushioned chairs.

“This is more than continuing medical education, it is life education.”

- Dr. Coley Barbee, Family Medicine

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  • “Jessie is so warm and wise. Regardless of how tightly wound up or zen you are on arrival, you will leave feeling lighter.”

    -Trauma Surgeon

  • “This experience is life-changing. The value of diving deeply into our learned belief patterns in the company of other supportive colleagues is immeasurable.” - ObGyn

  • “Jessie and this experience gave me practical, real-life tools to improve how I approach problems, both big and small. I recommend this to all physicians.”

    - Surgeon

DATES & SIGN UP

FAQs

When are they offered?

Click any of the "sign up buttons" to see currently available dates. Sign up to be notified of new dates as they are announced.

How much does it cost?

Prices range from $4000-$5500 dependent on the length of the offering. Keep in mind, you will NOT have hotel, restaurant, or spa charges on your credit card bill when you return home. The ultimate cost is the same or less than most other medical conference.

Where do you stay?

For multiday women's retreats, you stay on-site at Nicasio Creek Farm with us at no extra charge. Find out more about Nicasio Creek Farm here.

Is coaching, mindfulness, yoga, or hiking experience needed?

  • No. The yoga is designed to be accessible and is similar to that offered on my YouTube channel. Opting out of poses and choosing "variations that work for you" is highly encouraged. Because coaching and many retreat themes are woven into yoga classes, you are expected to particpate in the classes in some way.
  • We practice mindful hatha, yin, and restorative yoga. Most classes are a blend of these. While you will get some exercise these classes are not exercise yoga. Yoga is designed an experience that offers deep relaxation, nervous system and heart healing.
  • Mindfulness sessions happen inside and outside in nature. They often happen in locations that require walking on unpaved, uneven trails.
  • All of the coaching is done as small group. Each person has a 30 min 1:1 coaching session with Jessie.

Do you want more details about the agenda or CME accreditation?

  • If you need an official “agenda” or a copy of the CME accreditation before signing up, click here.
  • CME credit is provided by AKH Inc., Advancing Knowledge in Healthcare. In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by AKH Inc., Advancing Knowledge in Healthcare and Pause & Presence, LLC. AKH Inc., Advancing Knowledge in Healthcare is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team. AKH Inc., Advancing Knowledge in Healthcare designates this live activity for a maximum of 12 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
  • You are responsible for being aware of your own organizations rules surrounding CME.

What time do retreats for women physicians start and end?

They start at 2 pm on the first day (arrival between 1-2 pm). They end by noon on the last day.

Can you arrange a retreat for a private group or a team experience?

Yes! They can include professional coaching workshops, wellness education, culinary medicine/food-as-medicine education, cooking lessons, yoga, mindfulness, sound healing and forest bathing. I work with you to create an agenda that meets your teams needs. We can accommodate a max of 18 participants for a day retreat.

If you want to organize a retreat for 5-7 med school, residency, or fellowship friends, reach out by email to request a date. Or you can all sign up for the same retreat if there is room. If you want to come with less than 5, simply sign up for the same retreat and take advantage of the come with a friend disocunt if available.

SIGN UP TO COME TO NICASIO CREEK FARM

“Take the leap! You will find like-minded women, space to breathe, rest, and learn, with care and thought put into every detail and a leader at the helm who is ready to guide you to your best life and your best self.

You will leave more in touch with your own heart, values and desires. It will help you be not only a better doctor, but a better partner, friend, family member–and a better human.” 

-Zeba, Peds

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Nourish Yourself

A true farm-to-table experience

Organic vegetables, herbs, and fruit are grown on the property. You will learn about ingredients and cooking techniques. If you want, you can also be involved in harvesting and preparing seasonal ingredients in a teaching kitchen environment.

BE NOURISHED
Peach upside-down cake in a round baking pan with fresh peach slices on top
Bowl of pasta salad with yellow squash, cucumbers, feta cheese, and herbs
A man demonstrating cooking techniques to five women in a bright kitchen, with large windows and a dark kitchen island.
A large wooden table filled with a variety of fresh vegetables and fruits, including carrots, leafy greens, beets, broccoli, cauliflower, squash, tomatoes, snap peas, and strawberries, with two cardboard boxes of berries in front.
Bowl of mixed salad with greens, tomato, cucumbers, bell peppers, microgreens, and corn, on wooden surface
Charred carrots with herbs served on a metal tray.
Grilled artichokes served on a rectangular platter with lemon wedges in a small bowl and a dipping sauce.
A wooden dining table set for a meal with five glasses of red juice, five colorful napkins, and a centerpiece of pink tulips and candles, in a room with large windows showing trees outside.
An elderly woman and a middle-aged man sitting at a wooden kitchen table with plates, glasses of water, and a cloth napkin, holding and examining artichokes. The kitchen has white cabinets, a black countertop, a window above the sink, and various kit
Open-faced avocado and microgreen sandwiches on bread slices
A woman in a black jacket holding a water bottle smiles while standing at a kitchen counter, and another person in a beige apron is gesturing animatedly. The kitchen has white cabinets, a stove, and large windows showing green trees outside, with dis
Large sheet of apple pie topped with sliced apples, served on a wooden table.
IMG_7302.JPG

Mark Mahoney is a culinary craftsman.

He shares an inspired approach to plant-forward cooking.

Mark learned to cook from his mom, who loved making complicated recipes using strange and hard-to-find ingredients. Mark got his start working at a food stall in Faneuil Hall during a gap year. After graduating from Cornell, Mark helped open Michel Richard’s flagship DC restaurant Citronelle. While Jessie was in med school and residency, Mark was a stay-at-home dad by day. At night, he worked at Wolfgang Puck’s celebrated SF restaurant, Postrio.

His superpower is mindfully curating and sharing recipes that are simple, beautiful, and healthy. He teaches you how to approach cooking and nourishing yourself, and your family, with presence, calm, creativity, and wonder.

Mark is also an attorney. He and Jessie met in high school and have been together ever since.

MORE ABOUT THE CULINARY MEDICINE EXPERIENCE AT PAUSE AND PRESENCE

“With other conferences I usually feel leaving drained. At the end of this retreat, you feel stronger, more clear, trusting of yourself, and full of energy.”

-Dr. Erica Bove, REI

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Sunrise Hike at Big Rock In February

Sunrise Hike at Big Rock In February

Experiential Mindfulness near Lagunitas Creek

Experiential Mindfulness near Lagunitas Creek

Women Physicians Meditating at Chimney Rock in Point Reyes - in March

Women Physicians Meditating at Chimney Rock in Point Reyes - in March

Tomales Bay

Tomales Bay

Exploring Wildflowers and Elephant Seals at Chimeny Rock

Exploring Wildflowers and Elephant Seals at Chimeny Rock

Women physicians at Tomales Point

Women physicians at Tomales Point

Women physicians at nearby Samuel P Taylor State Park

Women physicians at nearby Samuel P Taylor State Park

Mindfulness practice at Lucas Valley Preserve

Mindfulness practice at Lucas Valley Preserve

March wildflower hike

March wildflower hike

Nicasio town church.

Nicasio town church.

Tule Elk on Tomales Point

Tule Elk on Tomales Point

McClure's Beach "Cold Toes Clarity Plunge"

McClure's Beach "Cold Toes Clarity Plunge"

Want to Arrive Early or Stay Longer?

Most retreat participants arrive early or linger afterward to soak in the magic of West Marin. It’s truly a hidden gem, offering breathtaking landscapes, delicious food, and a peaceful atmosphere.

West Marin is a sanctuary of natural beauty and tranquility. Nestled among Point Reyes National Seashore, Mount Tamalpais, and Muir Woods, the area invites deep rest, reflection, and adventure.

You can:

  • Wander through misty redwood forests

  • Walk the serene beaches of Stinson, Limantour, McClure’s, Kehoe, or Drake’s

  • Kayak across the quiet waters of Tomales Bay

  • Watch Tule Elk roam and listen to Elephant Seals bark along the coast

If you haven't yet explored Muir Beach, Mount Tamalpais, or the Marin Headlands, they’re worth adding to your journey.

West Marin is also the heart of the locavore movement, offering fresh, artisanal, farm-to-table delights. A few local favorites include:

  • Point Reyes Cheese & Nicasio Valley Cheese – Award-winning, locally made cheeses

  • Bovine Bakery & Brickmaiden Bread – Small-batch, handcrafted pastries and bread

  • Marin Sun Farms – Sustainable, grass-fed meats

  • Tomales Bay Oyster Company – Fresh oysters straight from the bay

After you sign up, you will receive recommendations for nearby lodging and the best places to explore.