The Life in Business: Dragonfly Ranch
Barbara Ann Kenonilani Moore’s mission in life since the early 1970s has been to create a nurturing environment called The Dragonfly Ranch: Healing Arts Center.
The year 1974 was marked by two accomplishments that were significant to her. She learned lomilomi massage from the world-renowned kahuna haha, the late Aunty Margaret Machado, and became the steward of an acreage in South Kona near Pu‘uhonua O Honaunau.
“While on ‘The Journey of Transformation’ in Egypt in 1980,” Barbara says, “I received a directive about making my home a center for growth and transformation, especially for healers and creative artists. I expanded my home into an upscale, Swiss Family Robinson-style, five-bedroom bed and breakfast and eco-spa.”
After additional study in the art of using flower essences in healing, she says she was inspired to make Hawaiian orchid flower essences. “I built a rainbow cathedral with a colorful labyrinth for centering and focusing positive energies.”
With the help of a Hawaiian friend, Barbara says, she began horticulture therapy for herself in her organic garden. She learned to work in harmony with the land, combining permaculture with ancient Hawaiian spiritual concepts.
At Dragonfly Ranch, Barbara shares the aloha spirit by hosting symposiums, retreats, workshops and weddings, as well as providing a safe haven for individuals seeking peace, creativity, healing and spiritual awareness.
In learning lomilomi (sacred rejuvenation treatment) and ho’oponopono (to set right) from Aunty Margaret, Barbara says she was encouraged to teach others. “Gratefully perpetuating these ancient arts is an important mission in my life. After spending almost four decades in Hawai‘i, I deeply appreciate its people and culture.”
Barbara Moore also serves as president of Big Island Health and Wellness Travel Alliance. The Dragonfly Ranch: Healing Arts Center was Voted “#1 B&B in West Hawai‘i” by readers of West Hawaii Today. For more information, call 808.328.2159 and visit www.dragonflyranch.com.
