Each day, I pinch myself—I’m living at a boutique resort!
Picture this: palm trees swaying under sunny skies, rich and luscious decor, lounge chairs by the pool, and three family-style meals daily, all courtesy of an on-premises chef. Rooms are cleaned and sparkling, laundry is effortlessly handled, and there’s always help to make appointments or bridge language gaps.
In short, it’s gracious service and loving care—an oasis of ease and respite for the body, mind, and soul.
For many of us, the pandemic and quarantine opened up the possibility of working remotely—not just from home, but from a different city or even another country. That possibility has now become reality for so many. Remember the old TV western Have Gun, Will Travel? To paraphrase its title, Have Laptop, Will Travel. That’s my life now.
I’ve relocated myself off to the Mwasi Healing and Restoration Center in Marrakech, Morocco, for two months. Founded by TaNesha Barnes and her husband, Jalaal Shah Taylor, Mwasi is a sanctuary that welcomes small groups for weeklong retreats. And while I’m more than a guest—I’m also an investor, retreat leader, and resident Elder—this time away has become a personal exploration.
After decades of building a career and making a living, taking time off to experience life without the daily grind has been both surprising and welcomed. Surprising, because there’s a part of me that feels like rest (hello, afternoon naps!) is somehow indulgent or even wrong. Yet, day by day, I feel that guilt less and less.
Creating Comfort in a New Place
Living successfully in a new environment is about finding the goods and services that make life feel like home—or even better than home.
Here, I’ve discovered an excellent massage therapist with strong, creative techniques; a chiropractor who left my joints feeling like jelly; and a barber who includes a head massage, shampoo, and glow conditioner in his caesar cut. There’s also an herbalist and apothecary crafting natural, organic blends and tinctures.
The Moroccan Hammam is an unmatched experience, with a thorough scrubbing using black eucalyptus soap that leaves your skin feeling brand new. Next week, I’m trying yoga, Pilates, and acupuncture.
Thriving, Not Just Living
I first came to Mwasi as a participant on a tour, then as an investor. Now, I’m experiencing what it’s like to stay for a longer period, and I see that I’m not just living—I’m thriving.
It’s heartening to meet a steady stream of brothers and sisters who are navigating these global streets, searching for authentic culture, and bringing their own to the mix. We’re a growing wave, reaching far shores, immersing ourselves in new waters, and undergoing our own rebirths.
Your Invitation to Rest and Renewal
If you’ve been curious about stepping away from the familiar and embracing something new, now might be the perfect time. I’m excited to share Principles of the Harvest, a free guide I created. It draws on natural law to help you navigate cycles of planting, growth, and abundance, and create a life of intention.
Click the link below to access your gift and take the first step toward your own journey of renewal and possibility.
Until we meet again,
Warmly,
Isisara Bey
