Retreat Places Emphasis on Women's Health

What began as a quest for personal health and well-being has led one local woman on a journey to help other women find ways to take care of themselves amid the complications of life.

To help women get a jumpstart on the healing process, Ellen Palmer is organizing the second Best You Retreat for Women, a weekend of inspiring speakers, walks, yoga, and time to focus on health.

Palmer opened her holistic health coaching business, Ellen Palmer Wellness, four years ago after running two other successful businesses and leaving her corporate job behind. Outside of her work with clients, Palmer said she wanted to create a supportive community for women.

"I was always on my own trying to figure everything out- how to heal my body, how to shift my limiting thoughts and beliefs," Palmer said. "I felt like I needed it for myself- I wanted to take my healing journey to the next level" .

Digestive issues, food sensitivities, and depression were some of the issues facing the young mother of two boys before she decided to commit herself to finding a balance in life.

"I had to make myself a priority, so I could help my children," Palmer said.

Busy schedules, stress, and poor diet are just some of the factors facing many mothers, according to Palmer. This is what led the entrepreneur to create a way for women to come together in a supportive community, if only for a weekend, and learn how to make some simple changes in their lives.

Last year, the retreat drew 37 participants from Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. This year Palmer limited the full-weekend program to 30 participants and added a one-day program during the weekend with room for 100.

The retreat will be held this year at the Newport Blues Inn and the Atlantic Beach Club. A full agenda for the retreat can be found on the Best You Retreat for Women website.

Rhode Island was chosen as the location for the first retreat because of the close proximity to the ocean, a setting Palmer finds to be particularly rejuvenating.

Palmer plans on hosting the retreat on an annual basis and possibly adding other venues throughout the year. Locations for additional retreats could include Connecticut, Maine, and Italy.

"It's really a wonderful way to take care of yourself," Palmer said.

The Best You Retreat for Women will be held May 11-13 and the one-day program will be held on Saturday, May 12. To make reservations or find additional information visit the program website.