Why Return 2 Human?

I’m Melissa, and if you’re here, you’re probably craving something deeper—just like I was.

Return 2 Human was born from a longing I felt in my own life for years.

I immersed myself in spaces that nurtured growth, self-expression, and connection—festivals, retreats, and transformative gatherings that stripped away the noise, bringing people back to what’s real. But there was always something missing: a level of intimacy. So many of these life-changing encounters would fade as quickly as they came. I longed for a space where the transformation didn’t end when the experience did—a space where we could return fully to ourselves, beyond the roles we play, beyond the expectations we carry, and beyond the stories we’ve been told about who we should be.

I created Return 2 Human as an invitation.

An invitation to step outside your routine and into immersive experiences that reconnect you with your body, your creativity, and the untamed parts of yourself you may have forgotten.

Through nature, movement, intentional workshops, and deep exploration, we guide you back to the wisdom you already hold—because transformation isn’t about becoming someone new.

It’s about remembering who you are.

  • Return 2 Human was created to spread awareness around the gift of our humanity.

  • We believe that every person plays a pivotal role in creating a better world for tomorrow.

  • We bring people together to celebrate being human and invoke higher levels of self expression.

  • We do this with the intention that people go back out in to their daily lives with confidence, excitement, and trust in themselves.

Melissa Barto

Founder & Lead Facilitator

Melissa is passionate about guiding individuals back to their true selves through transformative experiences. With a background in leadership and human connection, she empowers participants to reconnect with nature, creativity, and personal growth. Her unique approach focuses on helping others rediscover their essence in meaningful ways.

  • I was born and raised in Fort Lauderdale, located at the southern tip of Florida in the United States.

  • I am 27 years old and my birthday is August 5th. I bring that LEO energy all the way.

  • I hosted my first experience in December 2020, which was over 4 years ago.

  • I am an ENFP, Emotional Generator with a 1/3 profile, a 7/8 in enneagram, and a White Lunar Wizard, Leo Sun, Virgo Moon, Aquarius Rising, IYKYK.

Alexis Tolentino

Community Manager

A believer in serendipity, Alexis’ journey with Return 2 Human began through a chance encounter. After experiencing the retreats firsthand, she felt inspired to take an active role in this creative and expressive community. With a diverse background in healthcare, education, and sales, Alexis now connects with like-minded brands to spread the values of Return 2 Human, fostering partnerships that align with its mission.

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  • Surfing and spending time on the beach with my dog, Luna.

Take a listen.

Music is the backbone of every experience we create. Each playlist is meticulously curated to evoke emotions—joy, peace, nostalgia, and more—because we understand that healing begins by fully embracing the spectrum of human feelings.

Let’s connect!

We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re curious about our experiences or want to explore how to create your own retreats, reach out to us.