HoopGirl Empowerment Retreat

I just returned home from a blissful adventure to HoopGirl Christabel Zamor's Empowerment Retreat.  Tucked away among the redwoods in Mill Valley, CA, the mansion sized retreat center had a heart-shaped lawn, a gorgeous garden, and rooms with names like "inspiration" and "leadership."  It was perfect.  30+ hoopdancers from all across the country and beyond (Canada! Costa Rica!) converged for a weekend of personal growth and hooping.

The women in attendance ranged in age from early twenties to late sixties and their skill level varied just as much.  Opening night, the attendees were checking out the schedule... a few jitters and uncertain vibes permeated the room because the first class on the schedule was coming up... Burlesque/Striptease Hoopdance!!  I had the pleasure of assisting my dear friend and master teacher, Abby Albaum in this workshop, helping students and counting music.  It didn't take long before these ladies had loosened up to whipping their hair, grabbing their lady lumps, crawling into their hoops like sexy kittens who were just waiting for permission to unleash their inner goddess!  There were giggles and whispers, and it seemed that the feeling in the room had completely changed.   We were beginning to bond... Goddesses Unite!

Over the course of the weekend, women continued to expanding their hearts and their outlook, some adorning themselves with more daring fashion, some trying a new look with feather hair extensions.  We enjoyed yummy, organic food during the day and dark chocolate with cherries before bed.  We giggled and cracked up during laughter yoga (can't wait for more!) and we experimented with tantric and twin hoopdance.  We had a "Lion King" style dance party in the yard where we harnessed the energy of an animal in our dance and we also tapped into our inner hoop ninja!

By the end of the weekend, we had created a space that enabled each of us to grow and reach for the next edge of our comfort level. Pushing past boundaries is how we grow, and if it didn't happen on the first night for some, it happened at some point for all!

I bow down to each woman for showing up and enveloping thirty other women in creative Divine Goddess Energy!!  Smooches to all that attended.  I hope to see you all soon!!