Empowering Women and Giving Back

Baldwin Beach, Maui.

The Butterfly Effect illuminated the north shore of Maui on Saturday, May 19, 2012 as hundreds of glowing, exuberant women gathered to participate in two beach cleanups, yoga, and an epically fun noncompetitive standup paddle journey on the deep blue sea. Early in the morning, two hundred women of all skill levels gathered from around the world at Baldwin Beach. They were greeted with huge bright yellow butterfly flags, handmade lei’s, gift bags, and snacks. All of Paia could feel the tingles of joy in the air as the infectious energy of sisterhood emanated a buzz of camaraderie, enthusiasm, smiles, and supportive encouragement. The women gathered for a group meditation and yoga session on the beach, where a helicopter dropped thousands of flower “butterflies” onto them, after which they eagerly grabbed their boards and dove into the ocean like a flock of mermaids. From there they completed a downwinder from Baldwin to Kanaha on stand up paddle boards, accompanied by boats and jet ski guardians.

The intention of The Butterfly Effect event is to create an environment where women come together to support each other, nurture the environment, have fun, release competition, and bond via a mutual love of the ocean and respect for nature. It also aims to build community support and awareness of the athletes who grace Maui’s shore daily. The ending ceremony was a grand, jam packed event that was held at Thee Salon, where hundreds of guests were greeted with aerial silk performances, live music, delicious food, and a breathtaking fashion show featuring Maui’s most gorgeous women modeling clothing from top local companies and designers.

Narration: Jennifer Lynn (www.yogawithjenniferlynn.com/)

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