by Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer  

Health for the body and peace for the mind bring restoration to the soul. As we soak in the vibrance of summer, while looking ahead to the transitions of autumn, it’s essential to prioritize and harmonize all facets of our personal wellness journeys.  

But how can we achieve this balance in the hustle of our daily lives? Fair question, and that is exactly what we’ll unpack in this month’s Community Spotlight. I have asked Gaëlle Wizenberg, holistic wellness practitioner, energy healer and owner of Objects of Magic Farm & Retreat, to share what it means to care for our physical, mental and spiritual health through these seasons of life. I hope her insights fill you with refreshment and rejuvenation.  

Natural Awakenings: What is your background in natural wellness and spirituality, as well as your inspiration for starting Objects of Magic in the Sarasota area?  

Gaëlle Wizenberg: My introduction to natural wellness and spirituality began in the midst of running a sustainable company in Hong Kong. This business venture took me across the globe, but the fast pace ultimately became a challenge. To renew my strength and motivation, I turned to the soothing realm of healing practices.  

I started with the art of Feng Shui, which then led me to crystals. Next, I embraced the universal energy of Reiki, which has been a mainstay in my life for more than 15 years. This practice has brought such positive reinforcement into my life that even a single day without Reiki now seems completely unimaginable.  

This personal journey then took me to the canyons of Monte Nido in Malibu, California. While at a retreat on Chumash land, I found connection to the rhythms of nature and phases of the moon. It felt like learning to surf the wave of life, understanding when to pause and reflect or when to ride that wave in pursuit of my goals.  

Finally, in Sarasota, I crossed paths with a renowned therapeutic masseuse, Randy De Cosa, who exposed me to the calming resonance of sound bowl healing. When he eventually bequeathed his collection of sound bowls to me, the vision for Objects of Magic Farm & Retreat took shape. I had always dreamt of somewhere I could immerse myself in nature, enjoy nutritious food, practice the healing arts and continue to learn in community. 

 Myakka called to me, and the vision became a reality. Now the farm becoming a Reiki center, where I host Reiki teaching sessions with Master Victoria Stitzer. The tranquility of this farm, combined with harmonious energy and human connection, creates a perfect setting that our guests love. Our mini-retreats have gained so much traction, and it’s heartwarming to see familiar faces return to bask in the peaceful ambiance.  

This is not just a retreat, but also a place for healers to refresh and anyone to find the solace or connection they long for. I hope the Objects of Magic Farm & Retreat will inspire those who encounter it to grow in spirituality, experience restorative wellness, embrace the soothing balm of nature, and be fully present in their lives.  

NA: Can you describe the local wellness retreats you host, and how have you seen these events impact members of the community who attend?  

Wizenberg: Our retreats offer a nourishing, transformative respite for anyone who seeks relaxation, inspiration, connection, self-care and personal growth. Two of our most sought-after retreats are the Monthly New Moon Mini-Retreats and Monthly Full Moon Mini Retreats, held at the Southgate Community Center and the Objects of Magic Farm & Retreat in Myakka City. These retreats include powerful talks, rejuvenating stretches, Reiki-infused meditations and tranquil sound baths to nurture balance and renewal. 

I lead these retreats in collaboration with Master Hawaiian Yogi, P.J. Dietrich, Guided Meditation expert, Elizabeth Wilson, and Yoga Master, Lauren Nevius. Together, we help our attendees overcome challenges in their weeks and form lasting connections with new friends. When humans align with the cycles of the moon, they can release negative influences, create healthy intentions and manifest desires.  

We also offer several I-, II- and III-degree Reiki courses led by Master Reiki practitioner Victoria Stitzer. These classes empower attendees with the knowledge and techniques to practice the ancient art of Reiki healing on themselves and others. Our goal is to spread the wellness benefits of Reiki throughout this community and inspire all those who attend these courses to become compassionate energetic healers. 

Another favorite offering is a Floridian Edible Garden Workshop. We recognize the benefits of natural homegrown food, but we also know how difficult it can be to locate unaltered, nourishing food sources. Led by permaculture urban gardener, Deric Harvey, this workshop teaches attendees how to create and maintain their own edible gardens, which promotes a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle in the long-term.  

Finally, in addition to group retreats, we offer private life coaching sessions and private Reiki or Sound Bowl healing sessions by appointment. In these sessions, participants will receive focused attention and immersive guidance into their personal narratives, so they can unlock profound healing and transformation.   

NA: Do you have any exciting new updates or offerings in store for Objects of Magic in the remainder of 2023, and if so, can you elaborate?  

Wizenberg: I am thrilled to share the journey I have embarked upon in Myakka. In own my quest to cultivate an edible garden and learn more about permaculture, Deric Harvey and I are joining forces to develop a flourishing farm. Our aim is to grow fresh produce for our retreat community, and through this process, I have seen firsthand just how much we need more farms in our local region to promote health and well-being.  

I firmly believe that nourishing our bodies with the right nutrients is vital for a healthy mind, as the two are inherently interconnected. With this in mind, we have set our sights on the month of September to launch our farming endeavors. We anticipate encountering some trial and error along the way due to the unique climate of Myakka, but we feel confident in the natural fertility, quality and vitality of this soil as well.  

Ultimately, we aspire to offer a colorful, flavorful abundance of vegetables, lovingly nurtured and harvested from this beautiful Myakka farm. We also will produce fresh eggs from hens raised on a corn- and soy-free diet.  

We are committed to empowering local farmers and artisans in Myakka by providing Myakka grass-fed beef, flowers cultivated in the region and pure Myakka local honey. As a result, we aim to foster a sustainable, holistic environment that nourishes the land, as well as the humans who enjoy its bountiful offerings. Stay tuned for future updates as we embark on this incredible journey of growth and wellness.  

Together, we will cultivate a vibrant and thriving farm that not only sustains our bodies but also replenishes our souls. With each passing day, we inch closer to fulfilling this vision to uplift the beauty and sustenance of nature. I am excited to welcome you into this communal journey and portal of transformation where health and spirituality intertwine!  

Gaëlle Wizenberg is the owner of Objects of Magic Farm & Retreat, located at 14900 Coker Gully Road, Myakka City. Objects of Magic is also an online store that offers crystals, candles, essential oils, sage and Palo Santo, sound bowls, and Reiki or pendulum sets. To shop for these items and to learn more about the upcoming retreats, visit https://www.objectsofmagic.com/