A Weekend of Cooking and Wellness in the Berkshires: Nourishing Mind, Body, and Soul
A couple of weeks ago, I had the privilege of being the chef for a transformative yoga retreat in the beautiful Berkshires, hosted by Lisa Stiefvater of Radiate Yoga in Pelham, NY. The retreat brought together an incredible group of women for a journey of self-care, reflection and connection. With a focus on Lisa’s restorative yoga, guided breath work led by Robin Giacomo, and the healing vibrations of a sound bath, the weekend was a sanctuary for recharging mind, body and spirit.
As the chef, my mission was to complement this experience with meals that nourished and supported the participants on every level. All the dishes I prepared were 100% plant-based, designed to be comforting, flavor-packed, and deeply satisfying. By sourcing fresh, seasonal ingredients from nearby farms, I aimed to create a menu that celebrated both the healthful and vibrant flavors of the region.
A Menu Designed for Restoration
The meals were intentionally crafted to align with the retreat's theme of renewal and balance:
Breakfasts: Bowls of creamy overnight oats topped with roasted seasonal fruit, house-made granola, fruit compotes and yogurt, morning glory muffins and vibrant green smoothies
Lunches: Nourish soups and grain bowls featuring roasted root vegetables, tender greens, quinoa, and a variety of home made dressings and vinaigrettes.
Dinners: Hearty cauliflower bolognese with roasted spaghetti squash, vegetable soups and stews paired with crusty whole grain bread and side salads bursting with color and crunch.
Snacks: Bliss Ball energy bites, lemon tahini cookies and vegetable and dip nibble boards to keep everyone fueled throughout the day.
The participants raved about the meals, sharing how the flavors elevated their sense of well-being and enhanced their overall retreat experience. For me, the greatest reward was seeing their faces light up at the dining table, knowing that every bite was bringing them joy, balance and vitality.
A Partnership in Wellness
Lisa and Robin curated a magical environment and as the weekend unfolded, it was clear that each element—from the gentle yoga flows to the grounding breath work sessions and the mesmerizing sound bath—played a vital role in creating a sense of unity among the group.
Watching the women support and inspire one another was truly moving. It reminded me of the power of community and how shared experiences like these can nourish us in ways that go far beyond the physical.
Takeaways from the Weekend
As I packed up and said goodbye to the beautiful Berkshires, I felt deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such a meaningful retreat. The weekend reaffirmed my belief that food is medicine—not just for the body but also for the soul.
Creating meals that align with the healing and restorative goals of a retreat is a deeply fulfilling part of my work. It’s a joy to witness how thoughtful, whole-food cooking can enhance transformative experiences like this one.
I’m already looking forward to my next opportunity to cook for another retreat, weaving together flavors and nourishment to support others on their paths to wellness.