After months of working in the high-pressure world of climate policy, Renée Leduc arrived at Mahai carrying more stress than she realized. In this Voices of Mahai interview, she shares how the rhythm of the sea, nourishing community, and quiet evenings under the stars helped her rediscover deep rest.

In this edition of Voices of Mahai, Karena reflects on quiet mornings, self care, boundaries, loneliness, and the practices that help her return to herself. From sunrise rituals and prayer to learning how to care for herself without closing her heart, this conversation is a gentle reminder that healing rarely looks the way we expect it to.

At Mahai, one of our favorite recipes begins with the coconuts growing outside our kitchen. After guests finish drinking fresh coconut water, the soft young coconut meat is transformed into a bright Caribbean-style ceviche with lime, cilantro, tomato, and herbs. Over time, each of our chefs has created their own variations — from mango and avocado to caramelized onions — turning a simple recipe into one of the most loved dishes we serve by the sea.