The Unruly Retreat was curated as a safe space for Black women.
The tension in my shoulders that constant weight of deadlines and decisions waiting back home started to soften.
Houston traffic was not kind to us, and we were running behind schedule.
Guests unwinding during one of the workshops yoga classes.Credit:Courtesy of Ruby Melton
The hosts handed out icebreaker cards, but they weren’t needed.
Conversation flowed easily and there was a unique sense of openness around our table.
There were no pretenses and no judgments a theme that resonated throughout the retreat.
Women at the Unruly Retreat participating in one of the many workshops.Courtesy of Ruby Melton
To recognize each member of that inner cast and guide them toward their highest potential.
What would the aspirational version of you look like?
This is a question Marie had us not only reflect on but also embody that vision.
Retreat participants taking part in the margarita and guacamole making cooking contest.Courtesy of Ruby Melton
As a recovering people-pleaser, this truth hit especially close to home.
We split into teams to put our mixing and mashing skills to the test.
After all, I make guacamole weekly and I lived in Mexico for a while.
The women of the retreat dancing and enjoying themselves after the country themed dinner.Courtesy of Ruby Melton
Spoiler: we did not win.
But even without the crown, it was the perfect, lighthearted way to wrap up the day.
The clock glowed at 5:47 am so much for sleeping in.
Another half-day of workshops and meditations ensued before we broke for some well-deserved free time.
For me, the retreat affirmed just how far Ive come on my own healing journey.
