Nashauna Drummond, Staff Reporter
Bozenka (foreground) takes (from left) Stacy Gibson and Jewel Taylor through the basics of belly dancing. The occasion was the sixth annual Mind, Body and Soul Retreat organised by An Elegant Affair in Ocho Rios, St. Ann. - Photos by Nashauna Drummond
The cool waters of the Caribbean Sea gently lapped the shore. Combined with the hospitality of the villa staff, it was the perfect setting to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul.
Women from the United States and Caribbean swarmed Ocho Rios last week to be renewed at the sixth annual Mind Body and Soul Retreat organised by An Elegant Affairs.
It was a week of international sisterhood with women supporting each other in light of the demands of a sometimes cruel world. The retreat provided the perfect opportunity for those wounds to heal.
Physical 'wounds' were 'treated' early every morning at 7:00 with workouts by personal trainer Stephen Ming. The ladies were then taught the secret of belly dancing by renowned belly dancer Bozenka, and a variety of spa treatments by KiYara Ocean Spa. They were also lavished with beauty secrets used by the stars and revealed by international make-up artist, Stacy Gibson.
The ladies also got an internal renovation. Like very a competent surgeon, author, professional speaker and life coach Donna Hicks-Mitchell taught them how to be a Dynamic, Inspirational, Victorious Achiever (DIVA). They searched deep in their souls with tantalising poetry by a very passionate and intense poet Sekou at the pyjama party on Friday.
Like all good things, the retreat came to an end on Saturday. But not before participants were given self-defence lessons by Andrea Osbourne. There was also a stimulating workshop by motivational speaker Jewel Diamond Taylor.
Great friendships were formed in the week and the farewell dinner was indeed a sad parting.
Personal trainer Stephen Ming (centre) takes the ladies at this year's Mind, Body and Soul Retreat through their morning routine.
