Soulful Escapes: My Selfcare Retreat in Bali
“The photoshoot this time around was game-changing for me and all humbleness put aside, I ATE ZOWN. It was during this experience that I realized how much I had grown since my last retreat. ”
The Tea :
In June 2023, I went on my second Selfcare Retreat, this time in the lavish paradise of Bali, Indonesia (Ubud). Centered around the art of manifestation, the retreat provided the perfect itinerary that allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the ultimate Bali experience over the course of 10 days. As a returning retreat participant, I was so excited to explore the transformative power of self-care while partaking in the beauty and culture of Bali. From the moment I landed, I could feel the energy shifting, ready to set my passions alight.
Pre-Retreat Stay: Unwinding in Luxurious Bali
Before the retreat, I made sure to plan a pre and post-retreat stay to recover from the long flights to and from Florida and to fully soak up all that Bali had to offer. Instead of booking a villa or Airbnb, I redeemed my points to stay in two luxurious 5-star hotels, where I was treated like a pampered princess. As a Diamond member, I enjoyed complimentary suite upgrades, a complimentary photoshoot (that didn’t have enough time to take advantage of), and exclusive breakfast and dinner experiences. I spent time exploring Seminyak Beach, a luxurious destination reminiscent of my hometown beach in Jacksonville, Florida but with an added touch of opulence. My stay in Bali was the epitome of luxury.
InterContinental Bali Sanur Resort
The Retreat Tho…
Settled in a jungle overlooking picturesque rice fields in Ubud, the retreat resort, Basundari, gave a different experience from our previous beachfront Colombian retreat. With all-inclusive vegan meals and the warmest Balinese hospitality, I can confidently say that Bali owes me absolutely nothing. Also, my roommate and I lucked out with one of the best rooms, Arjuna aka "the pool room," with an infinity pool on our deck. We reached VIP status, okay! During our stay, the Balinese staff made a heartwarming gesture by blessing our doorsteps every morning with an offering basket. This was a special touch that I didn’t know we needed and truly made us feel welcomed and embraced by their beautiful culture. The staff and locals were simply amazing, making this retreat one for the books.
Exterior of the Arjuna Room at Basundari Retreat Ubud
For this retreat, I left my wigs behind. Chile, Topanga had to sit this one out. With a three-week getaway in mind, I instead hopped on the latest trend of boho braids (also known as messy goddess knotless braids depending on who’s styling it) in a copper brown color or color #30. I didn’t want to risk wearing wigs this time considering I’d be gone for nearly a month. I didn’t want the hassle of wig maintenance, especially lace glue. My braids definitely set the tone for the summer I had in mind though.
Having healed from the challenges and grievances I carried with me during the last retreat, my intentions for this retreat were simply to relax, enjoy, take beautiful pictures, and take some time to think, read, and write. I had a rough start to the year, and this retreat came at the perfect time to heal some more and rejuvenate. Additionally, this retreat served as a mini reunion with some of my retreat sisters from Colombia. We shared fun moments, supported each other through challenging moments, and created memories that will stay with us forever. The other half of the group consisted of past attendees and new faces, all of whom I now consider bonded with me for life. The retreat truly brought us together, and I'm so grateful for the friendships that were formed.
The Bali Experience
Both Selfcare retreats I’ve attended were truly special but this Bali one felt like an elevated experience, especially on a spiritual level. The focus was on the balance between relaxation and exploration, with an itinerary perfectly curated for the ultimate Bali experience. We were active and out and about, embracing everything Bali had to offer us. We began with a beautiful blessing ceremony, fully immersing ourselves in the Balinese culture. We visited the Bali Swing, was in the trenches with monkeys at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, shopped the local markets, watched the Uluwatu Kecak and Fire Dance Show, and even took part in a Balinese cooking class. We wandered through beautiful rice terrace fields, sunbathed at Padang Padang beach, and even had a cute time at a day club overlooking the Tegenungan Waterfall. And, per usual, we made sure to snap it up and the host of the retreat even hired professional photographers and videographers to capture every moment. Sis said, “Get someone else to do it,” and I’m here for it! We visited amazing temples and had the opportunity to get purified at Bali’s Holy Springs, where I low-key almost missed out due to my recent menstrual cycle. In Balinese Hinduism, menstruation is viewed as a period of purification for women. It is believed that during this time, women undergo physical and spiritual transition. As a result, they are considered temporarily impure and are encouraged to not attend or participate in certain rituals or ceremonies, including attending Holy Springs of Tirta Empul.
Photo Courtesy of Greatest Escape Bali
Spiritual Experiences, Workshops, and All the Tings
Photo Courtesy of Greatest Escape Bali
Throughout the retreat, we attended workshops, meditated, and fully embraced the Balinese culture. I participated in a Cacao Ceremony and this one was unlike any other I had experienced and elevated my journey since Colombia. Dressed in our beautiful red dresses, we sipped some raw cacao, meditated, and allowed the energy to flow through us for two whole hours. It was a profound experience, and at the end - accepting the optional, powerful energy invitation from the Cacao Ceremony hosts - I received a reading and two card pulls that assured me my heart was already fulfilled. The message was received and it was on point. The retreat also featured a meditation workshop that guided us through tapping into our seven chakras, leaving us feeling truly empowered and connected to our body and inner selves. I’ve never been so tapped in spiritually and the host taught us how to be grounded in nature, listen to what our body parts are telling us and feeling. Balinese massages were also offered at the Basundari resort to rejuvenate our bodies and minds. These massages were a must, and we indulged in any type that we desired. It was pure bliss and relaxation, allowing us to release any tension and fully experience top-tier self-care. We were fully immersed in the Balinese culture, embracing their practices and receiving their wisdom.
“You know what that is? Growth.”
One of the most empowering and elevating moments of the retreat for me was the complimentary goddess photoshoot. The photoshoot this time around was game-changing for me and all humbleness put aside, I ATE ZOWN. It was during this experience that I realized how much I had grown since my last retreat. I had temporarily put my awkwardness on hold and fully embraced my sensuality and confidence, allowing the true essence of the woman I am to shine through. New Tarra. Who dis?! This newfound self-assurance and comfort with my own sexuality were pivotal discoveries made possible by the transformative nature of the Selfcare Retreats. I realized that I lean on my awkwardness so much so that I’ve neglected the grown ass woman that I am. This particular photoshoot session showed me that I am fierce, sexy, and soft, deserving, and so much more. I of course was inspired by watching my retreat sisters slay their shoots but, I was alone with just the photographer in my pool room. I actually used that moment to channel a unique persona. I wanted to embody a housewife because I planned a purple glitter two-piece bathing suit from ASOS with a beautifully designed Kaftan and scarf set from Bfyne. So I became a Real Housewife of Bali. It was giving Nene, Porsha Williams. If I had a tag line, it would be, “It’s not a thirst trap, I just look like that.” I am truly stepping into a new era of me and it feels good. I’m a firm believer that self-discovery and growth are such powerful aspects of these Selfcare Retreats and it’s why I return. It helps you tap into your core and truly embrace who you are.
Photo Courtesy of Greatest Escape Bali
Choosing Peace and Self-Preservation
Now… let me spill the tea on my Selfcare Retreat experience in Bali. It was definitely all the things and absolutely gave what it’s supposed to give, but I gotta keep it real and address the shade that went down with a couple of retreat sisters. Although they didn't entirely ruin the vibe, their drama could have killed it if gone unaddressed. But erm… I didn't come all the way to Bali to let some negative energy bring me down! Alexa, play Beyonce’s “Break My Soul.”
Seriously, it was disheartening to witness the personal angst between these individuals create a divide within our entire group. It served as a reminder that not everyone is in a good space in their lives, but it's important for them not to project their hurt onto others. Although I found myself caught up in the drama by association (I didn’t choose violence and STILL caught a stray!), I made a conscious decision to disassociate myself from it. For real though, who needs that negativity when there are so many amazing experiences waiting to be had? I refused to let it consume me and instead, I focused on enjoying every single moment of my Bali retreat. I’d be damned to let my trip and coins go in vain over foolishness. This experience taught me the importance of preserving my peace and staying present, even in the face of bs.
Turning Negativity into Positivity
This retreat taught me a valuable lesson: I am the queen of my own happiness. Normally, I'm the kind who avoids conflict or confrontation which is overdue for some unpacking. But this time, I decided to show up and show out. I didn't travel across the world to be miserable and, we were in Bali of all places, trying to get in Zen mode. It was a major lesson for me to learn that I gotta meet people where they're at, but I also gotta prioritize myself and my own needs and well-being. Self-care is all about putting yourself first, after all.
One thing about it, our host, Shanicia, did her big one. She peeped the drama and swiftly turned the negative vibes into positive energy! Talk about a boss move! Her ability to keep the retreat atmosphere peaceful and uplifting made for a pleasurable experience for the rest of us. This reinforced the idea that we have the power to transform negativity into something beautiful. I am truly grateful for her ability to maintain a peaceful and uplifting atmosphere throughout the retreat.
Lessons in Retreat Dynamics and Friend Groups
Attending a selfcare retreat with friends might sound fun, but I've learned and observed that it can slightly alter the group dynamic. Also, it can potentially hinder the opportunity to connect with other dope women on the same wavelength. While I have contemplated on attending these retreats with my close friends in the past, I now understand that this space is best suited for me to explore on my own. I’m a firm believer that these retreats are all about embracing your individuality or, the best opportunity to do so. Disconnecting from the everyday hustle and prioritizing your own personal growth alongside like-minded women is where it's at! I can always plan other trips with my friends to have fun and turn up together.
Post-Retreat Reflections
As the retreat came to an end, I found myself basking in a newfound sense of confidence, femininity, and self-assuredness. Bali had worked its magic on me, leaving me with an elevated sense of inner peace and clarity. The connections I made with my retreat sisters were not only strengthened but solidified as lifelong friendships. We promised to continue supporting each other on our individual journeys, as we all left Bali with a renewed sense of purpose.
At the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Integration and Future Selfcare Retreats
Returning home, I made a conscious effort to integrate the lessons and practices I learned during the retreat into my everyday life. From implementing the four intentional settings in my journaling, creating sacred spaces in my home for meditation and self-reflection to incorporating nourishing plant-based meals into my diet, I am committed to maintaining the transformative energy of Bali within me.
As I reflect on this incredible retreat experience, I can't help but look forward to future selfcare retreats. The power of intentional self-care and the connections formed in these retreats have become a major part of my personal growth journey. I can’t wait for the next opportunity to immerse myself in the beauty of self-discovery, surrounded by like-minded women, leveling up together and inspiring each other to become the best versions of ourselves.
At the end of the day…
Bali, with its lush landscapes, rich culture and transformative vibes, left me forever changed. This retreat not only allowed me to embrace my confident feminine spirit but also empowered me to step into my own power and manifest my dreams. As I continue my journey of self-discovery and self-care, I carry with me the lessons, connections, and the incredible memories from my time in Bali—a constant reminder that I am a powerhouse, capable of embracing my truest self and slaying life with unwavering confidence and grace. Despite encountering drama and negative energies by a few fellow retreaters, I chose to focus on my own personal growth, preserving my peace, and staying present. This retreat validated my decision to attend future selfcare retreats individually, allowing me to fully disconnect and prioritize my own needs. I am proud of the strength I found within myself and the lessons I will carry with me on future journeys.
Now, I can't wait for my next retreat in 2024. Who knows where it will be? But one thing's for sure, it will be another opportunity to dive deep into self-care, relaxation, and exploration. Until then, I'll cherish the memories and continue to embrace the lessons learned during this unforgettable Bali retreat.
