Zen Ayiti: A two-day escape with spiritual artifacts, yoga, organic food and roots music in Port-au-Prince

PORT-AU-PRINCE — “The activities were classy, and the exhibitors did a great job. I especially enjoyed the electrifying performance of the group ‘Nanm’ and the moment when the Lakou Souvnans empress danced with the crowd.”

That’s how Kedler Saint-Hilaire, a graphic designer and fashion artist, described his experience at the fourth edition of Zen Ayiti on Feb. 2. The annual event, dedicated to promoting mental well-being, serenity, and spiritual balance, drew over 2,000 participants to Port-au-Prince.

Since its launch in 2018, Zen Ayiti has provided a space for Haitians to focus on their mental health and inner peace. The 2025 edition, held from Feb. 1 to 2, was no exception.

Indeed, right at the entrance of Hotel El Rancho, where the wellness and spiritual fair occurred, the ambiance was inviting, with uplifting messages on decorated walls, placards and poster boards. Walking down the aisles, soothing music played in the background, immediately putting guests in a state of relaxation. Along the hotel courtyard was an array of detox juices and organic food stands that offered healthy refreshments and meals. As attendees walked further, they found dozens of specialized exhibitors showcasing wellness and spirituality products, while a designated children’s corner allowed young visitors to enjoy the experience as well.

Like the participants and curious visitors, organizers Vélina Élysée Charlier, empress of the sacred Vodou stronghold Lakou Souvnans in Gonaïves,  and publicist Laetitia Brandt were happy that Pétion-Ville’s clear skies and a tranquil setting allowed Zen Ayiti to provide the perfect environment for reconnecting with oneself and embracing spiritual healing. 

“I am thrilled and grateful to have realized this event,” said Vélina Elysée Charlier, empress of sacred Vodou temple Lakou Souvnans in Gonaïves, the principal city of the Artibonite Department. 

“With Laetitia Brandt, we created Zen Ayiti to raise awareness of mental well-being. We thought it was important to get the year off to a good start.” 

To further explore Zen Ayiti’s mission, Charlier shared insights into the event’s origin and objectives in an interview with The Haitian Times and highlighted the importance of having Zen Ayiti right at the beginning of the year.

Workshops and other activities promote holistic well-being

Attendees participated in meditation and yoga workshops, listened to inspiring lectures and engaged in creative activities to foster self-care and mindfulness.

Many participants, like Kedler Saint-Hilaire, expressed their satisfaction and enjoyment. “I benefited greatly from the different presentations,” Saint-Hilaire told The Haitian Times. “I also had the chance to taste food from all the vendors and bought several products. I hope Zen Ayiti keeps improving, but I truly enjoyed it.”

More than 23 conferences took place during the 2-day event, along with hands-on healing sessions. People visited treatment rooms that offered massages, tarot readings, and palmistry, guiding guests through ancient divination practices. A dedicated resource center provided access to psychologists while local artisans and holistic healers showcased their products.

Additionally, necromancy and palm reading sessions attracted those curious to explore the mystical and the unknown. These sessions allowed participants to familiarize themselves with ancient practices and discover what the future might hold for them through palm reading. As a result, these activities added a spiritual element dimension to the event, offering a holistic experience of well-being, blending body, mind and soul.

Max Domerçant, CEO of Maxage, a company specializing in massage therapy, presented his book, “Le Guide du Bien-être Quotidien” (The Guide to Daily Well-being). His work emphasizes the importance of relaxation and wellness in everyday life.

Music and dance take center stage

Among the festival’s highlights were vibrant dance workshops. The Oriental dance workshop, led by Amalia Maya, captivated audiences with its fluid movements, while the Haitian folk dance workshop, led by Pascale Durosier, immersed attendees in the country’s rich cultural tradition.                  

The renowned Vodou music group Nanm took the stage to close the event, blending traditional Haitian rhythms with contemporary influences. Their performance was a celebration of Haiti’s cultural identity and spiritual heritage.

Nanm concluded their set with Travèse, a song honoring the resilience of those who endured the transatlantic slave trade while paying homage to Haiti’s ancestral strength.

For Emmanuella Marc, CEO of the agricultural company Zakasol, the event was an inspiring experience. “Zen Ayiti is an activity that showcases Haitian culture and spirituality, and I love that. It was good for my mental health as it was for others,” she said. “I hope we continue to invite young artists and allow those who can’t attend in person to experience it online.”

Ultimately, Charlier thanked attendees and partners for their support and promised an even more engaging edition next year.

The post Zen Ayiti: A two-day escape with spiritual artifacts, yoga, organic food and roots music in Port-au-Prince appeared first on The Haitian Times.

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Zen Ayiti: A two-day escape with spiritual artifacts, yoga, organic food and roots music in Port-au-Prince was first posted on February 18, 2025 at 2:29 pm.