Set against the backdrop of the Santa Ynez Valley, Alisal Ranch in California has announced the “Act 2 at Alisal Retreat,” hosted by midlife influencer Monica Corcoran Harel. The three-day retreat offers an opportunity for women aged 40-plus seeking to embrace the power of midlife with purpose and clarity. Whether you’re transitioning into retirement, pivoting in your career or simply yearning to reconnect with your passions, this retreat from March 9–11, 2025, provides an empowering space for self-reflection, personal growth and rejuvenation.
During the retreat, guests can engage in a variety of expert-led workshops and sessions including:
- “It’s All About Friends” – Host Monica Corcoran Harel shares how our communities keep us healthy and why we should be friendship planning, along with financial planning.
- “The Pursuit of Happiness” – Wellness reporter for the Los Angeles Times,” Deborah Vankin talks about her career pivot to covering health and well-being in midlife and beyond.
- “Skincare and nutrition” – Beverly Hills dermatologist Dr. Jessica Wu shares tips for creating a skincare routine that suits your age, along with tailored nutrition advice to help you radiate inside and out.
- “Sex and hormones” – An empowering talk with Dr. Manuela Vazquez-Whitledge, LaMaria founder and gynecologist, on how to enhance your sex life and support your hormonal fluctuations during midlife.
- “Charcuterie board-making” – Lifestyle expert Trisha Cole will guide you through the art of creating a charcuterie board, with guests taking home their personalized creations.
From visioning exercises and goal-setting to guided “Get Up & Flow” yoga and mindfulness, the retreat is designed to equip participants with the tools and boldness needed to create meaningful change in their lives. Attendees will also have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who are on a similar journey of self-discovery, creating a supportive and inspiring community.
Monica Corcoran Harel, screenwriter and founder of Pretty Ripe—a platform dedicated to celebrating women over 40—will host the “Act 2 Retreat at Alisal Ranch.” Known as “the midlife midwife,” Harel has made her mark as a writer for top publications including The New York Times and The Hollywood Reporter and has created content for major brands such as Estée Lauder. She has also hosted high-profile events for women with St. John, Paulina Porizkova and Blue Mercury. At 50, she made a successful pivot into screenwriting, selling her first movie to Netflix and is currently developing a sitcom with Disney for Mandy Moore.
In addition to the workshops, Alisal Ranch’s accommodations and peaceful surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for reflection and renewal. Guests can unwind in the comfort of rustic yet refined lodgings, indulge in farm–to-table dining, and take part in outdoor activities such as horseback riding, hiking, and more.
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