Black women have been working tirelessly this election (and well before it). And to say we are tired would be an understatement. Between organizing grassroots movements, making sure that our voices were heard and counted, and carrying the weight of our communities’ hopes on our shoulders – sis, we’re exhausted.
And because rest, according to Tricia Hersey (The Nap Bishop), is a form of resistance and a way to reclaim power, it’s something that is necessary in this season. Intentional rest, at that. The physical and emotional toll of political engagement demands more than just a casual vacation – it requires a dedicated space for renewal.
For those seeking to cure their post-election blues and trying to discover the best way to reset, Cancún may not initially present itself as an obvious choice, given its reputation for vibrant nightlife and social atmosphere. However, the Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya emerges as a surprising sanctuary, offering a sophisticated retreat that speaks directly to our need for restoration.
The resort distinguishes itself through thoughtfully curated wellness offerings that transform a typical beach vacation into a healing journey. I mean, who can say no to beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea, relaxing treatments inspired from Mayan traditions at the Zen Spa and indulging in a variety of elevated, global culinary offerings?
Part of Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection, this property masterfully blends ancient traditions with contemporary luxury. The architecture and design pay homage to the region’s rich cultural heritage while providing the modern amenities that discerning travelers expect. Each morning provides a vast amount of opportunities for mindful moments, whether through meditation at sunrise or therapeutic treatments that draw from centuries-old wisdom.
During my recent stay, I found myself unwinding in ways I hadn’t experienced since before the election cycle began. After months of relentless news alerts and the stress of wondering what the outcome would be, I finally was able to exhale. The simple act of watching the sunrise from my ocean-view suite became a form of meditation. The property’s adults-only policy meant that each morning brought with it a particular kind of silence – you know the type I mean, especially on vacation. There was no early morning shouting down the hallways or kids doing canon bombs in the pool next to you. I was able to hear my own thoughts again, to remember the parts of myself that exist beyond deadlines and political commentary.
The resort’s wellness programming became my daily anchor. Between writing and editing, I would slip away to the Zen Spa, where the Mayan-inspired treatments did more than just ease physical tension – they helped release the mental burden of constantly being “on.” One afternoon, after a particularly transformative thermal therapy session, I realized I hadn’t checked my phone in hours – a small miracle for someone always connected. This wasn’t just a vacation; it was a masterclass in intentional disconnection.
The newly remodeled, all-inclusive, adults-only resort demonstrates an impressive commitment to holistic wellness. With nine distinct restaurants, bars, and lounges, the culinary program elevates global cuisine to an art form. I feasted on tacos, guacamole and margaritas every day like never before, and enjoyed hibachi and sushi experiences at night. The property’s entertainment offerings strike a careful balance between enrichment and enjoyment, featuring everything from cultural performances to wellness workshops.
The resort’s approach to wellness proves particularly noteworthy. Though not for the faint of heart — the on-site cold plunge experience, increasingly recognized for its therapeutic benefits, offers a powerful recovery regimen. The innovative Well-Living Ritual, a signature spa treatment, offers a deeply restorative journey that guides guests through a series of therapeutic techniques, creating an immersive experience that awakens all senses in the healing process.
What resonates most deeply for Black women seeking restoration is the spa’s thoughtful integration of ancient Mayan healing practices. These treatments go beyond surface-level relaxation, offering a profound connection to traditional healing wisdom. The Zen Spa’s hydrotherapy circuit and traditional Mayan treatments provide a space where the weight of the world, no matter if it’s election blues, or from life itself, can genuinely begin to lift.
In a world that often demands our constant engagement, the Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya offers something increasingly precious: a space where rest isn’t just allowed but celebrated. For Black women emerging from an intense election season, or just looking to end the year with a retreat focused on the mind, body and spirit, this resort provides more than an escape – it offers a pathway to renewal that honors both our need for luxury and our right to rest.
In the end, choosing to prioritize our well-being through intentional rest and restoration isn’t just personal – it’s revolutionary.