Just as I was looking for a weekend summer escape, a beautiful new energy-healing wellness festival entered the chat.
In harmony with the summer solstice, the first ever Rooted in Wellness Festival took place on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at Rideau Pines Farm (bonus: strawberry picking!) in North Gower, Ont. Less than a 30-minute drive south from Ottawa, the one-day festival is one giant hug for the body, mind, and soul.
Rooted in Wellness Festival. Photo: Stephen Bierbrier.
The beauty of this festival (yes, there ARE a lot of festivals in Ottawa-Gatineau from June to September) created by Rachelle Ten Oever is that it does not try to be everything for everybody. Rachelle — an empath, energy healer, and yoga teacher — wanted a festival that fit her vibe: rejuvenation, inspiration, and connection. She knew what she wanted.
“With everything going on around us, I wanted to create a space in nature for a community of like-minded souls looking to nurture joy and heal holistically,” she says. She nailed it.
Aside from the 13 yoga and meditation workshops, there were two ecstatic dance sessions powered by DJ Jesse Buck and DJ Drez Slezak, wellness vendors, art experiences, and live music (Cristina Canas, Almyr Jules, Mischa, and Junal) throughout the day.
Rooted in Wellness Festival. Photo: Stephen Bierbrier.
Smiles were everywhere.
Two tents provided space for the workshops. I had the privilege of taking in Rachelle’s sound healing experience which was assisted by Micheline’s Reiki practice. To say that I was at peace during the workshop would be an understatement. Participants were filled with the sounds of musical instruments, including the singing bowls, the ocean drum and the gong to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and facilitate emotional and physical healing.
I arrived hopeful. I left at peace.
A day well lived.
Gratitude.
For upcoming events, keep an eye out on the One Wellness Ottawa website.
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