The LIKHA Global Wellness Retreat: Reigniting Passion, Purpose & Creative Energy brought together women, educators, wellness advocates, and student leaders for a unique journey of cultural exchange, reflection, and renewal. Hosted by St. Michael Health & Wellness, the retreat offered participants an opportunity to step away from daily routines and immerse themselves in experiences designed to inspire creativity, purpose, and connection.
A highlight of the retreat was the presence of international guest presenters Abirami Jayaraman and Narayanan Ganesan from Leaf Professional Salon & Spa, whose expertise in wellness and professional beauty enriched the program. Their participation created a vibrant cross-cultural dialogue about wellness, creativity, and personal growth.
The retreat also welcomed enthusiastic student leaders from Calatagan High School and Colegio de Sto. Domingo de Silos Inc., reflecting LIKHA’s commitment to encouraging leadership, creativity, and meaningful community engagement among the next generation.
A Cultural Welcome to the Philippines
The retreat began in Manila, where Ms. Abirami and Mr. Narayanan enjoyed their stay at Belmont Hotel Manila before embarking on a cultural tour of historic Old Manila. Participants explored the heritage streets of Intramuros, discovering landmarks that reflect the Philippines’ rich history and cultural identity.
The day continued with lunch at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant, where guests enjoyed a feast of traditional Filipino cuisine while watching captivating cultural dance performances. The experience offered an unforgettable introduction to the country’s vibrant traditions.
Later that afternoon, the group traveled to Tagaytay, enjoying a colorful tour of local fresh fruit and flower markets before continuing their journey south. Dinner that evening featured beloved Filipino dishes at Barbara’s and Pamana Restaurant, showcasing the warmth and richness of Filipino hospitality.
A Retreat of Creativity, Reflection, and Connection
As the retreat unfolded in Calatagan, the full agenda came to life through a series of engaging and inspiring activities designed to ignite creativity and encourage self-discovery. Participants began with a joyful hat decoration activity, a symbolic and artistic exercise that allowed everyone to express their individuality and creativity.
Workshops on goal setting and vision board creation followed, guiding participants to reflect on their aspirations and map out intentions for the future. These sessions encouraged participants to reconnect with their passions and envision the next chapter of their lives with clarity and confidence.
Evenings brought moments of deeper connection, as participants gathered around a campfire sharing circle, exchanging stories, insights, and laughter under the night sky. These heartfelt conversations created a sense of community and reminded everyone of the power of shared experience.
Wellness Through Culture and Cuisine
Throughout the retreat, participants also enjoyed thoughtfully prepared global wellness-inspired meals designed to nourish both body and spirit. The culinary experience drew inspiration from Mediterranean, Italian, Japanese, and Greek cuisines, blending wholesome ingredients, fresh flavors, and balanced nutrition that complemented the retreat’s holistic wellness philosophy.
Meals became moments of connection as participants gathered around the table to share conversations, cultural insights, and gratitude for the experience.
Creating Meaning Through LIKHA
True to its name—LIKHA, meaning “to create”—the retreat became a space where ideas, friendships, and personal insights were formed. Through cultural immersion, creative expression, reflective dialogue, and nourishing food, participants rediscovered their passion, clarified their purpose, and rekindled their creative energy.
As the retreat concluded, participants left with renewed inspiration, deeper connections, and a shared sense that the journey of LIKHA had only just begun.
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