Magdalena Dan
Adapting to Change
Situated on a hilltop with expansive mountain views, Migdalia Lifestyle Center has revamped its program to meet the needs of those impacted by conflict in the region.
Migdalia was established in 2016 as a center for lifestyle education. Its customary 10-day program includes delicious and beautifully prepared plant-based meals, walks in the nearby hills, consultations with guest physicians, massage and hydrotherapy, and classes on health.
Accommodations and amenities include ten beautifully appointed guest rooms with en suite bathrooms and kitchenettes, an outdoor pool and a terrace with stunning views.
But in this region of the world it hasn’t been easy to attract guests to fill the 10-day programs. Leaders have pondered how to draw more clients. Yet in a way no one could have planned or anticipated, the Center has now become a place of healing and hope for hundreds—now thousands—suffering from the ravages of strife and conflict.
When regional unrest intensified, Migdalia administration had no choice but to close the facility and shutter its doors.
But soon the need to support those directly impacted by the tensions became apparent. Almost overnight, Migdalia downsized its program to a one day luxury spa experience. Word spread quickly and visits to the Center increased dramatically.
“People say it is like a little heaven on earth,” states Magdalena Dan. “Guests are treated like family. They enjoy delicious, plant-based meals, hot showers, pedicures and hot foot baths, hydrotherapy, massage therapy, love and support.”
This formula of love in action touches the hearts of all who enter.
“Each day brings new guests who exclaim, ‘This is the most beautiful retreat venue in the entire region. I had no idea it was here!’ ” Ms. Dan relates.
The goodwill engendered by this novel approach has garnered the facility two official certificates of commendation which will bolster its reputation and open doors for more collaboration in the future.
“We have received thank you notes from clients in many regions,” Ms. Dan states. “After returning from Migdalia, the clients cannot stop talking about the wonderful experience, the beautiful location, and the fantastic therapists who treated them with such warmth and compassion.
“Many who have experienced the one day spa say they plan to return with their families after the conflict is over,” she says. “We never imagined something like this would happen at Migdalia!”
Unlooked for blessings sometimes appear in the midst of heartbreaking loss. In processing the painful events of their past with his brothers, Joseph said, “But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive” (Genesis 50:20, NKJV).
In spite of much suffering, a door of hope and blessing has been opened at Migdalia.
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