The retreat experience turned out to be more than owner April Hill ever dreamed. One lady shared, “I really wasn’t sure what to expect. I was drawn to the images and stories on social media. I trusted it and took a chance and I’m so glad I did.  This was worth every penny and more. I cannot wait for the next one.” 

The planning of this retreat began in April, 2023. April Hill, owner of Yoga Studio 90 met with the Mayor of Natchez,  Dan Gibson, Pilgrimage Garden Club, Natchez Garden Club, The Nest, Consign and Design and many other local businesses for support and participation. As an entrepreneur and local business owner, it was important to her that these local places she enjoys when visiting were spotlighted to all attendees.

The event kicked off at historic Ellicott Hall which sits beautifully on the highest bluff In Natchez. This old building was big enough to accommodate guests, team and volunteers and offered old Natchez charm, too. The space allowed guests to relax and unplug from their busy lives.

As everyone arrived Friday they were greeted on the front porch by two Natchez residents (Mrs. Jackie Wild and Mrs. Carol Frank) with warm smiles, cold mimosas, water, snacks and southern hospitality that every single person raved about. The deep porch was the perfect place for picture taking as the classic green shutters had a beautiful dressing of smilax vine, American beauty bush and trumpet vines – the most elegant and natural additions by local floral artist, John Grady Burns. 

As guests arrived they enjoyed a light lunch delivered by Natchez Coffee. Mayor Dan Gibson arrived and welcomed everyone to Natchez. He shared how Natchez is the right place to RENEW. Mayor Gibson was the first to get on board with RENEW and assured April, “The City of Natchez will support this event as we are delighted to have healthy events here.”

Dr. Andy Yarborough with The Well Clinic was the kick off Friday speaker and shared, “caring for our whole self requires us valuing ourselves.”  He led everyone through exercises peeling the onion back on what value does and doesn’t look like.  It was an eye opening informative session indeed. 

Guests enjoyed seeing the town as April intentionally placed 15+ fitness classes and break out sessions in different locations. Attendees had the option to choose a fitness stretch, yoga, power walk class or a break out session like Rewire your Brain for Hope with Rochelle Frazier and How plant life affects our health with John Grady Burns.

In addition to Dr. Andy Yarborough, guest speaker, Meredith Waguespack with Sweet Baton Rouge and Don’t Stop Just Geaux  shared what keeps her from stopping, how and why she keeps GEAUX’g!  She spoke from the heart and not a dry eye was left in the room.  

Saturday morning, Adam Braud with Adam Braud Fitness kicked off the day with a presentation on Stewarding Your Health.  He was funny and informative.  Many people shared their biggest take away was his explanation on the importance of sun to soil. 

Not only did attendees hear from dynamic speakers, work out with experienced premier fitness professionals but they also were able to experience beautiful properties like cocktail hour at The Burn, sunrise Yoga and power walking on the bluff of the Mississippi river to private garden tours at Magnolia Cottage and Choctaw Hall.  Attendees also enjoyed the beautiful and air conditioned Queen’s Room at Stanton Hall for Stretch and Rhythms classes along with HOT Yoga and FLOga classes on the lawns of Stanton Hall and Memorial Park.

We are so appreciative to our generous sponsors City of Natchez, local business owners that generously sponsored the event: The Well Clinic, Adam Braud Fitness, Sweet Baton Rouge, Media Furrate, Studyville, Hallelujah Wine and Spirits, Baton Rouge Family Fun, SPIRO, The Nest, Magnolia Cottage, Choctaw Hall and Murray Printing.

We are excited about the RENEW wellness retreat 2024 and hope to see you there! To learn more about RENEW visit website: https://yogastudio90.com/renew-a-wellness-retreat/ and follow our Instagram page to see news, interesting facts and upcoming events. @renew_a_wellness_retreat

 We have had many people reach out to sponsor our next event and if you’d like to partner by sponsoring please contact us to get in touch. We can’t wait for the next event! 

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