As the HEALING SUMMIT 2018 entered its fifth year last March at the stunning Hotel de Rome in Berlin, there seemed to be a renewed sense of unity in the air shared by the speakers, organizers and attendees of the very special conference.The theme of this year’s summit was “Unlocking the Mystery of Healing” and the participants (called “delegates” by the founders of the summit) were very eager to learn more about the process of healing.Gharieni was very proud to be a sponsor of the HEALING SUMMIT again this year. First, the speakers addressed the medical and scientific aspects of healing. It became very clear that healing is a much deeper expression of wellness and well-being. Healing is more than just overcoming an illness or a cut on the skin. Healing is a profound, transformative process that encompasses many elements. Attendees heard from neuroscientist Dr. Marjorie Woollacott from Oregon, Washington State, who presented empirical findings on how the body responds to deep meditation. Her keynote address was fascinating as she presented scientific evidence of the physical changes that can take place.
A holistic physician from New York spoke about how he recognized the tremendous need to connect more deeply with his patients as a physician. Dr. Ken Redcross, who is frequently seen on television shows in the United States, spoke thoughtfully about the importance of making a connection with others, especially his patients. While most doctors ask their patients, “How are you?”, he has made it a habit to ask his patients instead, “How is your soul today?”
Stacey Fischer, an award-winning travel and lifestyle consultant, shared her extensive knowledge of what her affluent clients are looking for. They are very interested in healing travel, but also want luxurious accommodations. Stacey shared some stories about her clients for whom money is no object and their quest for a unique travel experience. Steve Griffith, director and founder of Sukhavati Ayurvedic Retreat and Spa in Bali, motivated the audience with his stories of how he started out as a yoga teacher, barely making ends meet. Today, he mentors dozens of employees and trains executives in the corporate programs he has structured.
Julia Zhang, Deputy General Manager of the Grand Bay Hotel in Beijing, spoke about the burgeoning Chinese hospitality market, which is geared towards healing methods, and the opportunities that exist for establishing more hotels. Amidst a program of highly inspiring and educational speakers, the group participated in gentle yoga sessions in the ballroom offered by Patricia Thielemann and meditations were led by Velleda Dobrowolny. It was an energizing yet calming way to get through the two days.
It is important to mention that the food provided was absolutely fabulous, mainly vegan creations that were inventive, healthy and provided adequate nutrition.
Throughout the conference, the founders of the HEALING SUMMIT and the Healing Hotels of the World, Anne Biging and Dr. Elisabeth Ixmeier, were very present and gave a unique insight into their impulses and commitment to holding an annual HEALING SUMMIT.
At the end of the first evening, a lively “marketplace” was held where hoteliers who are members of Healing Hotels of the World had the opportunity to provide material to media representatives, travel agents and consultants.
The two-day conference was very well attended and the prevailing opinion was that it was an extremely valuable conference.
The following comments were among those received following the summit:
– We were all able to experience the power of collaboration, and I noticed the integrity that lies in uniting everyone’s talents, expertise and tasks for a higher purpose.
– In its fifth year, the HEALING SUMMIT continues to bring together wonderful and amazing souls who are all committed to and striving for a healing world – together as one community.”
– I appreciate the opportunity to talk to and meet wonderful people.
At the end of the summit, one of the conference leaders, Catherine Parrish, a consultant to nonprofit organizations and businesses, asked the group to share what was outstanding about the conference and what each person was grateful for. It was a heartfelt and powerful exercise and a wonderful way to wrap up the two-day experience. Gharieni was happy to be a part of this unique holistic business conference.
