Nov 94 min read

The Purple Path Bi-Annual Healing Retreat

On October 26th, I Attended The Purple Path Bi-Annual Healing Retreat, and It Exceeded My Expectations!

The anticipation had been building for awhile: the opportunity to meet Dr. Shaniqua Jones. Despite countless near misses—being at the same events, posting from the same places on social media—we never crossed paths. But that day was different. Not only did we finally meet, but she recognized me as soon as I entered the room. It felt like a divine connection, one that set the tone for an incredibly meaningful day.

The moment I been waiting on! 😊

When I arrived, I was just in time for a powerful opening prayer led by Kristen R. Harris. Her words resonated deeply, addressing struggles and ushering in a spiritual presence that was palpable. The atmosphere was one of shared vulnerability and connection, perfect for the journey of healing we were about to embark on.

Dr. Shaniqua then posed a question to the room: “What do you need to be whole again or as whole as possible?” As I sat with that question, I realized how much I needed to let go in order to feel truly whole—an idea I may unpack further in a future post. The stories shared afterward were awe-inspiring: testimonies of loss, survival, and ultimate triumph. These were tales of overcoming the darkest moments, such as losing children, enduring domestic violence, and even finding forgiveness from childhood predators. They reminded us all of the importance of processing pain to reach healing.

Hearing Dr. Shaniqua share her story was incredibly moving. Her radiant smile belies the hardships she’s faced, but it’s a testament to her strength and resilience. The raw honesty and hope from everyone in that room were incredibly uplifting.

Dr. Shaniqua intently listening to a guest's response

Before the first workshop, there was a break (with muffins!), and then we headed into a session called "Family Track - Healing-Informed Parenting," led by Nikki Williams-Rucker, Tydra McLaren, Jacinta Gholston and Monika Okitipi the founders of Black Mom Ish. This foundation focuses on empowering and providing resources to underserved communities. Nikki and her panel discussed the different types of parenting and/or personalities. As someone without children, I resonated most with the "I can do it by myself" group. Many of us shared that asking for help feels impossible, often due to past disappointments or a deeply ingrained sense of pride. Our resolution? To be more open and seek out supportive, reliable communities.

The Black Mom-Ish Panelists speaking in the Family Track - Healing-Informed Parenting Workshop

After that liberating workshop, my friend and I visited the vendor booths. I was thrilled to reconnect with my dear friend, Coach Fannie. We hadn’t spoken in a while, but the moment we saw each other, we embraced and exchanged heartfelt apologies. This was a reminder that reconciliation is a powerful part of the healing journey. Coach Fannie is a passionate healthcare advocate who helps women not only lose weight but also live healthier lives. She champions a wellness philosophy focused on living fully, not just looking good. Years ago, she transformed her own life by taking control of her health, and now she empowers others to do the same. I purchased one of her pineapple kiwi smoothies, now available at Chicago Native Foods, and it was absolutely delicious!

These smoothies were so delicious and filling!!!! 😋

Reunited and it feels so Good!

Another vendor I loved was Marilyn Okoye. Her mantra, "Overcoming is an Action Word," deeply resonated with me. I purchased a tumbler and bookmarks that will serve as daily reminders that overcoming requires intentional action. Marilyn is also an author; her book Overcoming Depression sounds like a must-read for anyone on a healing journey and she also as have a digital journal on Etsy and an adult coloring book found on Amazon. If you’re interested in her products, don’t hesitate to reach out via email.

The wonderful Sisters Carrying a Powerful Message

My "Overcoming is An Action Word" bookmark at work

I also visited Merch by BDavis Designs, which features, one-word yet powerful sweatshirts. I fell in love with a "Heal" sweatshirt and admired her minimalist but impactful designs. Merch by BDavis Designs offers T-shirts and accessories that make a bold yet simple statement about the importance of self-care and growth.

The incredible merch brough to you by Merch by BDavis Designs

A Close-up of Merch by BDavis Designs Accessories

Lunch was a welcome reprieve. There were vegan and meat options; I opted for the chicken Caesar salad wrap, which came with pasta salad, chips, cookies, and refreshing water. It was nourishing, giving me the energy needed for the rest of the day.

On the way to the next workshop, I discovered a therapeutic space hosted by THM Behavioral Services, where I was introduced to balloon meditation . I couldn’t visualize the balloon at first, but the facilitator guided me through my emotions. It was overwhelming but incredibly cathartic, bringing tears as I released pent-up stress. The space provided a much-needed pause for self-care and reflection, even if it made me miss the next workshop. I was grateful for this unexpected healing moment.

The final session I attended was a restorative justice workshop. The panelists included Dr. Shaniqua, Rev. Robert Spicer, Attorney April Preyar, and Vanessa Westley. They spoke on the many ways we can contribute to our communities, emphasizing restorative practices and healing through justice. It was eye-opening and showed how we can be active pillars in our neighborhoods with small acts of intentional actions.

The Panelist of the Restorative Justice Workshop

This retreat was a life-changing experience. I encourage you to attend the next one in 2025. It’s something that must be felt and lived, not just read about. Dr. Shaniqua, thank you for creating this sacred space.

Favorite Quotes from the Purple Path Retreat