Mohonk Mountain House: A Wellness Destination in the Hudson Valley

Located in the Hudson Valley just 90 minutes north of New York City and surrounded by thousands of acres of woodlands and miles of hiking trails, Mohonk Mountain House is a Victoria Castel resort that has been owned by the Smiley family for 150 plus years.

We spoke with Nina Smiley, Director of Mindfulness Programming to find out more about what this famous and unique resort offers and how she works elements of wellness into her own life.

How long have you been with Mohonk Mountain House, and what do you do with this property?

I have been with Mohonk Mountain House for 32 years, and I am the Director of Mindfulness Programming. Mindfulness Meditation at Mohonk Mountain House is all about sharing “modern mindfulness” with guests, coaching them in how to bring the benefits of a meditation practice into real-life.

Our classes at Mohonk are based on a book I wrote, The Three Minute Meditator, and which teaches guests how to work with mindfulness so that it will be available in real-time, as needed. I teach classes, private sessions, and lead weekend programs several times each year.

Our mindful eating program, Never Diet Again, is an immersion into a new relationship to food.

In a recent addition to our offerings, I lead “Forest Bathing” walks where I integrate mindfulness with nature in our inspirational setting. These forest bathing experiences are a guided opportunity to be fully present in the moment exploring the nuances of sensory awareness on trails that lead us through the woods alongside timeless cliffs around a pristine mountain lake.

Classes on Mindfulness and Relationships are offered at our Couples Weekends for an experience where partners can learn and share a new perspective.

There are so many hotels, resorts, retreats and tour operators offering wellness programs and packages – tell us a bit about Mohonk Mountain House, and what are the main points of distinction?

Mohonk Mountain House is a Victorian Castle Resort that combines the charm of an old-world aesthetic with modern amenities. It has been family-owned and operated by the Smiley family for 153 years, and we greet guests with a warm “Welcome to our House.”

Our mission has always been to offer re-creation and renewal of body, mind, and spirit in a beautiful natural setting. Mohonk is set on 40,000 acres of woodland in the Shawangunk Mountains with 85 miles of hiking trails on our doorstep. The setting is an invitation to step outdoors and be nurtured by nature. A main point of distinction is the way Mohonk uses the outdoors for well-being, offering complimentary walks with our naturalist, guided hikes, and a spa that delights in wellness-without-walls.

Our award-winning spa just opened the Lakeview Summerhouse where guests enjoy treatments outdoors overlooking the lake in a cliff-top area where mindfulness and massage services invite guests to relax into the moment in a very special way. A new outdoor Lakeside Immersion fall activity features contrast therapy: a cold plunge into Lake Mohonk to invigorate, followed by yoga nestled in a warm room.

Another point of distinction is that our rates are inclusive of meals and complimentary activities where guests can create their own well-being “sampler” experience.

What pandemic-inspired policies and procedures has (Mohonk) implemented to keep travelers healthy and safe?

Our protocols for cleanliness have always been at the highest level and remain at the highest level as we keep our travelers healthy and safe in these challenging times.

What does Mohonk offer that might attract a potential visitor like the readers of LA Yoga?

Mohonk Mountain House is an iconic Hudson Valley resort, where there are so many things to do. We have daily classes that include yoga, meditation, singing bowls, and fitness modalities.

Our yoga and mindfulness weekends are full immersion. As rates include meals, many of the daily activities, and evening entertainment, guests are able to relax without having to think about the details that go into planning the logistics of a vacation. It’s a seamless integration of wonderful, healthy food prepared by award-winning chefs, a wide range of activities that include seasonal lake swimming, boating, archery, tomahawk throwing, disc golf and tennis, with horseback riding, golf and the full-service newly refreshed 30,000-square foot spa.

Winter features 35 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails, ice-skating and snowshoeing. Many of our rooms have wood-burning fireplaces perfect for snuggling on a winter night.

We like to say that Mohonk is about “options” and that you can be as busy or relaxed as you want to be. This means enjoying a sense of spaciousness where you can relax, renew, and refresh in your own way in your own time.

How do you incorporate wellness into your own daily life?

I go outdoors to be in nature as often as I can and I call upon my senses one at a time.

I begin by closing my eyes and experiencing the sense of touch as I notice the fresh air on my skin. Then I become aware of the sense of smell, and take in the sounds that surround me. When I open my eyes, I invite myself to “see with new eyes”, without a filter of thought. I notice the colors, shapes, and textures of the natural world and it’s almost as if the channel has changed and colors are brighter, shapes are more distinct, textures are more visible.

This process of deepening awareness takes me outside of myself as I connect with the natural world in a deeper way. I feel a sense of spaciousness that nurtures me.

What are some of the top wellness trends you are seeing at Mohonk Mountain House?

People are very interested in being outdoors and are increasingly understanding the value of being nurtured by nature. There’s also an interest in learning more about things that can be brought home and practiced, including yoga, mindfulness and tips from our massage therapists and fitness instructors. There’s a trend towards understanding the value of self-care and a commitment to practicing it.

Do you feel technology is important as it pertains to wellness, and if yes, how and why?

I think technology can be helpful as an entry point to wellness. I also think that it’s not the whole story because technology can be a distraction from the actual practicing of wellness activities. I would prefer to see tech as an opportunity for a beginning, that then becomes an opportunity to customize well-being for oneself and take “self-care” wherever it needs to go.

Wellness is an ongoing process that needs to be dynamic based on changing needs, changing circumstances, changing seasons. Learning to tune in to one’s own body is nuanced, and it’s important to remember that you are the expert on yourself, without relying overly on technology.

Do you and, if yes, how do you incorporate the local community or culture into the programming at Mohonk?

We work with local farms and incorporate farm-to-table best practices into our cuisine. We have an active relationship with our local art community and hold artists’ events and programming at the Mountain House throughout the year. On property, we have remarkable gardens and invite local colleges to have their students work on sculptures that go into our gardens to incorporate young people’s excitement and creativity for our guests to enjoy.

We host an annual Gingerbread Competition during the holiday season and donate proceeds from this event to our local food bank.

What is your final note of advice for living your best life?

It’s very simple. Remember to breathe! We get so busy at times that we forget the calmness and joy that can come with a full gentle breath in, and a full gentle breath out. Also, remember to recognize and enjoy small moments of happiness and nurture this awareness. Creating an inclusive sense of satisfaction and well-being within the fabric of life is an on-going opportunity for self-care, rather than waiting for “something big” to feel good about.

Anne Dimon

Co-Founder and President /CEO of the Wellness Tourism Association, Anne Dimon has been a travel writer and industry journalist for close to 25 years, and has traveled the world as a columnist/contributor to a variety of publications. Anne is also Owner/ Editor of TravelToWellness.com launched in 2004 as the first online magazine/resource for the wellness-minded traveler. Prior to her life as a journalist, Anne was president of her own public relations company specializing in hospitality. She has also worked in the hotel industry as a director of public relations. An acknowledged wellness travel expert and industry consultant, Anne is also the co-author of The Travel Institute’s new Wellness Travel Specialist Course.

www.TravelToWellness.com

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Lifestyle Medicine at Pritikin Longevity Center in Miami

It was way back in the 1970s when California visionary Nathan Pritikin introduced the concept of combining of exercise and good nutrition to prevent, and even reverse, heart disease, and other lifestyle-induced medical conditions.

Since then,  countless scientific studies have proven him correct, and his pioneering philosophy continues to prevail at the Pritikin Longevity Center in Miami. We spoke with Carol Espel, MS, Fitness & Program Director, about this based-on-science retreat, and how she incorporates wellness into her own life.

How long have you been with Pritikin Longevity Center, and what do you do at this property?

I joined the Pritikin team in Miami as the Fitness Director two years ago, after over 30 years of senior leadership in the fitness industry, both nationally and abroad.

There are so many hotels, resorts, retreats and tour operators offering wellness programs and packages – tell us a bit about Pritikin, and what are the main point(s) of distinction?

Pritikin offers one and two-week Longevity and Lifestyle Programs based on each guest’s individual health needs and goals. One of the biggest differentiators at Pritikin is the integrated, holistic approach to health, wellness, fitness and sustainability. Our team of medical doctors, behavioral psychologists, culinary experts, nutritionists and exercise specialists deliver a compelling experience, that’s not only safe and appropriate but relevant and results-focused.

Both programs include physician and specialist-led educational seminars, off-site excursions, plus a wide range of structured small group training sessions including those dealing with strength training, cardiovascular exercise, balance and stability, spinning, Latin dance, and others. Plus there are lectures on topics such as belly fat, metabolic syndrome and diabetes, mindset maintenance, emotional eating and achieving a perfect posture.

What pandemic-inspired policies and procedures has Pritikin implemented to keep travelers healthy and safe?

The safely of our guests’ and employees is our top priority. The Pritikin programs are supervised by a team of on-site physicians. Their guidance has been invaluable. We continually monitor the situation, and adapt new policies and procedures as needed.

What does Pritikin offer that might attract a customer like the readers of LA Yoga?

Taking a mindfulness approach to most every aspect of the guest experience at Pritikin builds the personal value of the stay, but more importantly, supports the continued success after leaving. The specialized week-long programs such as Mind-Body Week and Women’s Health Week are engaging and purposeful and great for most anyone seeking more self-care formats, behavioral change, healthier lives and overall calm and peace of mind.

How do you incorporate wellness into your own daily life?

My morning ritual starts with a ”prayer” of gratitude for my life, my family and a hope for peace for all of us and the world at large. Next, on to my favorite coffee and then to the gym or Pilates workout.  I am a huge fan of hot yoga, even in Miami! Also, I have made sleeping and meditating a priority.

What are the top wellness trends you are seeing at Pritikin?

The top wellness trends I am seeing among our guests are mostly focused on finding ways to keep movement and exercise fresh and fun. For instance, our newer outdoor excursion classes include a full morning Miami Beach workout. We continually add new and innovative classes that specialize in meditation, self-care, Pilates, Barre, and even HIIT programs for fitter populations that are all aspirational and motivational.

Do you feel technology is important as it pertains to wellness, and if yes, how and why?  If no, why not?

Technology is incorporated throughout Pritikin to provide a more personalized, informed guest experiences. The personal tracking APPS and data available are huge among the fitness community here. We include specialized educational lectures that introduce all the possibilities for evaluating individual real-time data.

For instance, number of steps per day, HR, sleep, et cetera,  and exactly what that means to each guest. We use the MYZONE system for heart rate monitoring in classes, utilize the FIT 3D Body composition and postural assessments, plus we have our proprietary APPs, including our 3D Body Scanner, that are accessible and simple to use, to name a few.

Do you and, if yes, how do you incorporate the local community or culture into the programing at Pritikin?

We offer all kinds of off-site excursions that showcase Miami and the surrounding areas. We highlight special restaurant trips, places like the Design District, local State parks and beaches, and even a grocery shopping trip with the nutrition team to learn how to make better food choices.

What is your final note of advice for living your best life?

Slow down. Make each moment count. Nothing is more valuable than your time. Take time to just breathe, to hug and love.  Celebrate all the gifts of your life and share your energy and love with others.

Anne Dimon

Co-Founder and President /CEO of the Wellness Tourism Association, Anne Dimon has been a travel writer and industry journalist for close to 25 years, and has traveled the world as a columnist/contributor to a variety of publications. Anne is also Owner/ Editor of TravelToWellness.com launched in 2004 as the first online magazine/resource for the wellness-minded traveler. Prior to her life as a journalist, Anne was president of her own public relations company specializing in hospitality. She has also worked in the hotel industry as a director of public relations. An acknowledged wellness travel expert and industry consultant, Anne is also the co-author of The Travel Institute’s new Wellness Travel Specialist Course.

www.TravelToWellness.com

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Located on Hilton Head Island on the Atlantic coast of South Carolina, and founded in 1976 by behavioral psychologist Dr. Peter Miller, Hilton Head Health (H3) is a pioneer in the field of proactive health care. Their programs are built on the philosophy that personal responsibility along with the development of healthy habits are the keys to a longer and healthier life.

Beyond the comfortable rooms at the multi- award-winning Hilton Head Health, lodging is also available at the two-story, Sweetgrass Inn which opened in March of 2021 and offers 30 rooms and suites. Its name pays tribute to the local Gullah people, who have woven the strong, yet pliable, sweetgrass leaves into beautiful and useful baskets for centuries. The baskets are incorporated into the décor of the inn to highlight the Gullah heritage. According to the H3 site, these,“Remind guests that both inner and outer strength along with flexibility are the foundations of a healthy and productive life.”

We spoke with Program Director David Chesworth about this island retreat and how he incorporates wellness into his own life.

How long have you been with Hilton Head Health, and what do you do with this property?

I have been with Hilton Head Health for ten years and I currently oversee the development and delivery of our program experiences.

There are so many hotels, resorts, retreats and tour operators offering wellness programs and packages – tell us a bit about Hilton Head Health, and what are the main points of distinction?

Hilton Head Health (H3) is a destination health and weight loss retreat. People come here because they either wish to vacation somewhere beautiful and know that they can go home healthier than they left, or, because they are ready to make a serious change in their lifestyle and become the best versions of themselves.

H3 is an immersive experience where the healthy choice is the easy choice. Balancing between the three pillars of fitness (move well), nutrition (eat well), self (be well), H3 offers a well-rounded systematic approach to wellness. We offer a diverse range of experiences from fitness classes, educational seminars, workshops, interactive healthy cooking experiences, spa services and more in order to create the ideal personal touch experience for our guests.

Ultimately, our guests come here so that they can “turn healthy into habit.”

 

What pandemic-inspired policies and procedures has Hilton Head Health implemented to keep travelers healthy and safe?

Following CDC guidance, Hilton Head Health no longer requires indoor use of face masks and/or coverings, however, at their discretion, guests and staff may choose to mask at any time. Unlike the larger health resorts, which have difficulties limiting the number of guests at any given time, Hilton Head Health is a smaller resort with a lower total capacity. This subsequently reduces the risk of exposure to Covid-19 while also allowing us to provide individualized attention to every guest.

We also offer a wide variety of courses, seminars, and programs, which means each class size is diminished and personalized. We will continue to take every possible precaution to ensure the well-being of our guests, including placing hand sanitizer stations throughout the campus and requesting regular temperature checks. While many of our guests and staff self-report that they are fully vaccinated, we do not have a requirement to provide proof of vaccination.

What does Hilton Head Health offer that might attract a customer like the readers of LA Yoga?

Although Hilton Head Healthy (H3) has Yoga programs, it is not exclusively a Yoga retreat. Offering evidence-based and holistic programs, H3 is the perfect healthy vacation destination for someone looking to stay connected to Yoga and Pilates while also experiencing a diverse offering of other fitness class styles, interactive cooking experiences, and educational health and wellness workshops.

H3 also makes for a great location to refer friends and associates who are looking to vacation somewhere and return home healthier. And, if weight-loss happens to be a goal, chances are they will lose weight along the way.

How do you incorporate wellness into your own daily life?

My greatest passion in the universe of health and wellness is human movement. My wife and I have turned our garage into a gym. If I’m not doing strength and conditioning workout that day, it’s because I’m doing a stretch and relaxation routine instead. I love seeing how strong I can get without sacrificing mobility along the way. In addition to this, I practice mindfulness and gratitude regularly throughout the week to keep my mental health in check. From a nutritional standpoint, my wife and I enjoy experimenting with at least one new healthy recipe each week.

 What are the top wellness trends you seeing at Hilton Head Health?

I can speak to our popular classes. To preface this, H3 offers a wide variety of classes ranging from Barre, cardio machines, yoga, strength circuits, tabata, aquatics, TRX, outdoor bootcamps, and more.

We provide a safe space environment for people who may be too nervous to try these things back home so they can discover whether or not they enjoy the activity. Currently the most popular classes at H3 are aquatic classes, strength machine circuit classes, and Cardio Boxing classes.

Do you feel technology is important as it pertains to wellness, and if yes, how and why? If no, why not?

Technology can be a wonderful support for many, and a potential distraction for others. Technology is best thought of as a tool that, when applied appropriately, will make success much easier.

For instance, if you have a goal of getting in 10,000 steps per day, it would be close to impossible to accurately track that without technology. Can you imagine mindfully couting every single step you take each day? For a goal like this, it is extremely helpful to have a device tracking this for you allowing you to redirect your mindful energy towards the experiences you are having in the world around you as opposed to the thousands of steps you are taking. In addition, to visually see how many steps you’re taking can be a motivating thing. With too few steps, you may be motivated to take an extra walk. With too many steps, you may feel good about being an over-achiever. And with the exact amount of steps, reveling in the success of having accomplished your goal.

Technology has also made it possible to work with programs and coaches remotely and in the comfort of your own home. H3 has recently launched a “Hilton Head Health at Home” program capitalizing on “ONDemand” technology, tracking apps, and remote coaching. This has been a powerful and helpful tool for our guests/clients in helping them to not only reach their goals, but maintain them, and take them further than they thought possible.

Do you and, if yes, how do you incorporate the local community or culture into the programing at Hilton Head Health?

We have partnered with multiple local partners to share the beauty of the nature and culture of the lowcountry area that we live in. From dolphin cruises, to barrier island tours, nature hikes and kayaking trips, we love to show off our beautiful location to our guests and to that we work with the communities of Hilton Head Island.

What is your final note of advice for living your best life?

Success in any goal cannot be sustained with an empty tank. Too often, people find themselves making goals around things they feel they “have to do” or “should be doing” in order to be healthy. This results in drained mental, emotional, spiritual energy and leading to burn out. Be sure to incorporate goals that result in “filling your tank” more often than the goals that deplete your tank.

In other words, find physical activities you enjoy, healthy foods that you love, and cultivate hobbies and skills that bring you joy. While it’s not always the quickest road to your goals, but it’s the most bulletproof road to living your best life.

Anne Dimon

Co-Founder and President /CEO of the Wellness Tourism Association, Anne Dimon has been a travel writer and industry journalist for close to 25 years, and has traveled the world as a columnist/contributor to a variety of publications. Anne is also Owner/ Editor of TravelToWellness.com launched in 2004 as the first online magazine/resource for the wellness-minded traveler. Prior to her life as a journalist, Anne was president of her own public relations company specializing in hospitality. She has also worked in the hotel industry as a director of public relations. An acknowledged wellness travel expert and industry consultant, Anne is also the co-author of The Travel Institute’s new Wellness Travel Specialist Course.

www.TravelToWellness.com

The post Hilton Head Health, A Pioneer in the field of Proactive Health Care appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.

What are some of the wellness benefits of the beach? What if I told you that you could experience better sleep, reduced stress, nervous system balance, increased endorphins, and a calmer mind? Who doesn’t want more of these health benefits that directly affect one’s quality of life?

With summer upon us, people are naturally drawn to spend a day or vacation at the beach for rest and recreation.

Once you know all of the wellness benefits of spending time at the beach, you’ll likely make your next beach day, or better yet, wellness retreat at the beach, a top priority.

Besides a fun and pleasurable escape, spending time at the beach benefits our health on physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual levels.

Physical Benefits of Beach Wellness: “Vitamin Sea”

The cure for anything is salt water: sweat, tears, or the sea. — Isak Dinesen

A trip to the ocean has long been prescribed for its health benefits. Some of the obvious benefits of spending time at the beach is soaking up the fresh air and sunshine, along with swimming in the ocean or enjoying a beach walk.

While we all know to take precautions to avoid damage to our skin with prolonged sun exposure, absorbing sunshine through the skin has many health benefits.

The “sunshine vitamin,” Vitamin D, gives us many physical health benefits (including, but not limited to the following).

• Boosted immune system.
• Healthy bones.
• Regulated blood pressure.
• Regulating hormone production.
• Many people are deficient in this important vitamin which is best absorbed through the skin.

Only ten minutes in the sun at the beach can provide your daily dose of Vitamin D!

Recent studies reveal that women in particular receive physical health benefits from sun-bathing. Women who spend more time in the sun live longer and have lower risk of breast cancer.

Our bodies soak up health benefits from the ocean water.

Our skin absorbs trace minerals.

• This includes magnesium. Magnesium is important mineral for our muscles, bones, energy levels, digestion and sleep, which also contributes to lowering blood pressure and reducing inflammation.
• We take in iodine through salt water. Iodine boosts immunity and prevents infection.

The ocean’s salt water detoxifies the skin.

As teenagers growing up near the beach, my brother and I would give ourselves “facials,” splashing the ocean’s water on our faces to reduce acne. We both noticed a difference in our teenage complexions when we moved away from the beach in high school.

People breathe easier at the beach.

This happens both because people  are more relaxed and because of the air quality. Besides being more free of pollen and other pollutants, the air near the ocean is filled with negative ions, increasing oxygen intake. Fuller breaths and increased oxygen create deep relaxation, reduce anxiety, and induce a better night’s sleep.

Swimming in waves is great exercise.

Swimming in waves uses all our major muscle groups and provides a great cardio workout!

Beach walks are an enjoyable and challenging form of exercise.

The soft sand creates resistance, giving a good strengthening workout for the feet, legs and heart, and increasing the effort to balance. (Did you know that balance is also correlated with life expectancy?)

Walking or running in sand requires about twice the energy than walking or running on a sidewalk.

Walking barefoot on the sand provides a method of grounding or earthing.

Walking barefoot on the beach gives another great benefit, especially for city dwellers who live in shoes. Grounding or “earthing” keeps us connected to the earth and has proven physiological benefits such as boosting immunity, reducing inflammation and stress hormones, improving blood pressure, and balancing circadian rhythms to promote better sleep. While our lungs absorb ions and oxygen from the fresh sea air, our bare feet absorb electrons from the earth, making us feel grounded.

If you’re not lucky enough to live near the beach and reap these benefits every day, an occasional visit to the beach is worthwhile. The physical benefits can be felt for days after just one visit.

Emotional: Wellness Benefits of Beach Therapy

The sea, to be happy, like hearts, must be stirred. –Will Advise

Do you like the sound of increased serotonin, endorphins, dopamine, as much as the sound of the waves?

Then head to the beach!

Besides all the physical benefits, spending time in the sun also promotes emotional health.

Our bodies respond to sunshine by producing a flood of feel-good hormones and neurotransmitters.

Sunlight triggers the release of chemicals in our endocrine system. Some of these are dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, which transmit love, excitement, happiness and a general positive mood. These regulate our physical, emotional and mental states.

Time at the beach relieves stress and helps people feel carefree, uplifted, and engaged in the present moment. Besides taking time away from work, home, or other demands, the beach itself has a number of qualities that help reduce stress.

The sound of the ocean waves relaxes and soothes one’s emotions and promotes a meditative state.

We all know that the sounds of crashing waves washes away the cares of the world. The vast ocean and endless horizon helps one’s problems fade into the background.

Ocean Sounds Cultivate Relaxation

The sounds of the sea–the regular “swoosh” of the ocean waves, occasional cry of seabirds, the breeze–engage the parasympathetic nervous system, our “relaxation response,” which is the baseline for emotional (and physical) health.

The Color Blue is Calming

Along with the rhythmic sound of the waves, the color blue–the deep blue ocean and cerulean blue of the sky induces a state of calm. The fresh air of the beach alleviates symptoms of seasonal affective disorder. Being around other people relaxing and having fun also lifts one’s spirits and promotes positivity.

Walking on the Sand is Uplifting

• Long beach walks or relaxing and relieve stress, playing in the sand or ocean waves uplifts the spirits.
• Time at the beach is known to alleviate stress, reduce anxiety or depression, and dissipate emotions such as anger and sadness.

Ernest Hemingway wrote how present-moment awareness fostered by the beach can help mend a broken heart:

“In the morning there was a big wind blowing and the waves were running high up on the beach and he was awake a long time before he remembered that his heart was broken.”

 

Mental: The Blue Mind Effect

Be alone with the sea, for it is there you will find answers to questions you didn’t realize exist. –Khang Kijarro Nguyen

How the Ocean Affects Our Neurochemistry

• While people’s bodies and hearts receive benefits from being at the sea, mental experience also improves.
• The same neurotransmitters that calm and elevate moods also affect brain function and cognitive performance.
• Being at the beach can have an immediate and lasting effect on mental health, promoting peace of mind, mental clarity, problem solving, insight, introspection, and creativity. Sign me up!

In fact, research scientist and marine biologist Wallace J. Nichols wrote the book, “Blue Mind, How Water Can Make You Happier, Healthier, More Connected, and Better at What You Do.” His research confirms the positive and lasting mental health benefits of spending time near water. “It’s the antidote to what we refer to as ‘red mind,’ which is the anxious, over-connected, and over-stimulated state that defines the new normal of modern life. Spending time near the water is essential to achieving elevated and sustained happiness.”

The Benefits of Mental R & R

• Just as our bodies need rest, our brains need rest from constant stimulation, and the beach provides the ideal setting for this “Mental R&R.”
• Our brains are constantly bombarded by the environment, processing everything taken in by the senses on a continual basis, along with all of the information we take in every day.
• In the digital information age, human brains are more taxed than ever before.

The brain needs time to rest and recover, and the beach is the perfect setting for this.

At the beach, there is less for us to process and soothing elements such as the broad horizon, expansive sky, and natural sounds and sensory stimuli which are easier for our brains to process. Nichols explains, “When you stand at the edge of water and look out on the horizon, it’s visually simplified relative to the room you’re sitting in right now, or a city you’re walking through, where you’re taking in millions of pieces of information every second.”

Along with a regulated nervous system, a lower heart rate and deeper breathing, our brainwaves respond to the sound of the ocean waves by slowing down, much like when we meditate, focus on our breath, or practice yoga. The calmer brainwaves and parasympathetic nervous system response–when our minds do not have to be on constant alert–helps boost concentration, focus, present-moment awareness, and mental clarity.

The Ocean Provides a Mindfulness Practice

As Zen teacher Michael Wenger points out, listening to the ocean waves is a powerful form of mindfulness practice.

“Just listening to the sound – not tying it to anything, just letting the sound wash over you – is a way of letting go of your ideas and directly experiencing things as they are.”

Meditation Practice on the Ocean: So Hum

In fact, my favorite meditation practice, one I teach on my retreats, is to link my own breath to the sound of the ocean waves along with the simple mantra, “So Hum.” Even when I am far away from the beach, I’ve “imprinted” this practice into my system so that my mind and nervous system can return to the relaxed and open state that I cultivated while meditating on retreat at the beach.

Mental Relaxation with the Sea Air

Helen Keller wrote about the mental benefit of breathing the sea air.

“I could never stay long enough on the shore; the tang of the untainted, fresh, and free sea air was like a cool, quieting thought.”

Helen Keller most likely didn’t know that the increased oxygen and negative ions present in the ocean air provided benefits to her brain, but she clearly experienced the positive effect on her mind.

Mental Relaxation = Mental Clarity

When our brains can relax, we experience greater mental clarity. While relaxing at the beach, you might find sudden clarity regarding a problem that has been consuming your mind, or just the right idea to move forward with in life. Observing the expansive horizon and vast ocean helps give your mind a break from ruminating thoughts and worries, giving greater perspective and peace of mind. A friend recently shared a humorous meme with me.

“You might not find the answer to all of life’s questions at the beach, but it’s worth a try!”

Finding Your Flow State at the Beach

Time at the beach induces creativity and “flow state,” a state of being that is treasured by humans. When we experience the “blue mind” our minds rest and wander freely, switching into what is known as the “default mode.”

Default mode includes daydreaming, imagination, memory consolidation, introspection and insight.

This mode leads to creative thought and often to those moments of sudden inspiration. These are the “Eureka” or “aha!” moments that feel like gifts that suddenly “drop out of the sky and into your head,” as Nichols says. He explains in Blue Mind.

“There are all these cognitive and emotional benefits that we derive every time we spend time by water. Once you get into it, you realize that it’s chemistry, it’s biology, it’s physiology. It’s deeply personal but it’s also strong science.”

The next time you need a break from decision fatigue or need clarity on an important aspect of your life, try a day at the beach, or better yet, a beach retreat.

One should lie empty, open, choiceless as a beach waiting for a gift from the sea. –Anne Morrow Lindbergh

Spiritual Wellness Benefits of the Beach: A Sense of Wonder

The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever. –Jacques Yves Cousteau

The simple act of sifting a handful of sand through your fingers and contemplating the countless grains of sand at the beach, or observing the seemingly infinite expanse of the ocean, induces a sense of awe and wonder. It seems impossible to avoid contemplating a spiritual essence to nature when observing the powerful ocean waves and the beauty of the sky and water.

Connecting to Awe at the Beach

The feelings of awe and wonder gives us a sense of connection to something greater than ourselves and a chance to contemplate our place in the cosmos. When we experience awe, we feel viscerally that we are “one with the universe” and connected to the world and people around us.

We gain a greater sense of self and our true essence.

In the words of poet e.e. Cummings, Whatever we lose (like a you or a me), It’s always ourself we find in the sea.”

• The beach naturally cultivates a sense of humanity while people enjoy the spectacular nature of this shared natural resource.
• We feel more compassionate and connected to others, and cultivate an increased sense of empathy, while observing people of all ages and all walks of life enjoying the simple act of experiencing pleasure, play, and peace at the beach.
• The sensory experience of the elements at the beach also conveys a sense of oneness with nature.
• We remember we are also natural beings, made up of almost the same percentage of water as our planet.

As oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle wrote, “Even if you never have the chance to see or touch the ocean, the ocean touches you with every breath you take, every drop of water you drink, every bite you consume. Everyone, everywhere is inextricably connected to and utterly dependent upon the existence of the sea.”

Our Spiritual Relationship with Nature

This visceral awareness of our direct relationship with nature provides a sense of deep reassurance during a time of anxiety about the fate of the planet. While the beach is constantly changing with shifting sands, cloud parades, breezes and weather, its basic nature remains the same. Our minds, hearts, and nervous systems are reassured by the consistent nature of the beach and ocean. While we may be concerned and disturbed by pollution of our precious beaches and oceans, the steadiness and grandeur of the environment can offer hope and reassurance.

The Power of the In-Between Spaces

The beach is a space of both continuity and transition and its shoreline represents a “liminal” or in–between space, with deep and broad spiritual implications. The liminal space represents the threshold between the known and unknown, past and present, what has been and what is to come. In Celtic and other spiritual traditions, thresholds (in space or time) represent sacred places where we have greater opportunities for connection with the divine, spiritual wisdom of mystics and ancestors.

In Mayan traditions, the Caribbean Sea is the point of new beginnings and rebirth.

My favorite time of day at the beach, especially in the Riviera Maya, is watching the sun rise over the sparkling turquoise sea or watching the sun set over the emerald green jungle. These times, on a daily basis, are opportune moments to connect to spiritual guidance, set intentions, or reflect on the day.

Author Joan Anderson, has written multiple best-selling books about the transformation and spiritual lessons gained by time at the beach. She writes, “The beach to me is a sacred zone between the earth and the sea, one of those in-between between places where transitions can be experienced – where endings can be mourned and beginnings birthed.”

Quiet moments at the beach provide ideal times for introspection and retrospection, whether through a contemplative practice, a relaxing beach walk, or simply staring at the vast ocean.

One of the Wellness Benefits of The Beach is that it Helps Us Integrate

In a world of constant change and impermanence, time at the beach can help us integrate the constant shifts in life and accept uncertainty. Our experience at the shore, physically between our everyday life on land and the vast expanse of limitless possibilities represented by the ocean, can help us gain comfort in life’s transitions or a season of facing the unknown.

Some of the greatest periods of spiritual transformation and personal growth come during times of transition.

Humanity as a whole has entered into a time of great uncertainty and change, with the ways of the industrial age no longer serving us, alarming and disheartening news on multiple fronts, the information age becoming overwhelming, and many visionaries stating that we are in the process of ushering in a new age of intuition and conscious awareness.

Change and uncertainty can be faced with intention and clarity when one takes the time to cultivate mindfulness, present-moment awareness, and healthy non-attachment.

The beach “teaches” both of these spiritual practices with its qualities. These qualities include the waves washing upon the shore that are continually in a state of creation and dissolution, as well as its grounding, expansive, and mystical qualities.

In Letters to a Young Poet, Rainer Maria Rilke counsels, “Have patience with everything unresolved in your heart and to try to love the questions themselves as if they were locked rooms or books written in a very foreign language. Don’t search for the answers, which could not be given to you now, because you would not be able to live them. And the point is to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps then, someday far in the future, you will gradually, without even noticing it, live your way into the answer.

Why a Retreat at the Beach

What could be better than a day or even a vacation at the beach? A beach retreat, of course!

A Setting for Transformation

Throughout human history, people have experienced the beach as a place for healing, transformation, and sacred ceremony, as well as a place to relax and renew. Across cultures and spiritual traditions, the ocean represents creation, the Source of Life, and water symbolizes rebirth and spiritual cleansing. People are drawn to the ocean to commemorate important life moments–engagements, weddings, and memorials often take place at the beach.

Besides the beauty and pleasure the beach setting provides, it is an ideal setting for a transformative retreat experience.

Retreats are more than vacation or R&R.

A retreat sets the stage for deep healing and life-enriching transformation with a lasting positive impact on everyday life.

A retreat by the beach is an opportunity to surround oneself with positive energy from the environment, people, and activities, and to receive all the benefits of being at the beach plus the intentions established by a retreat program.

People join retreats for perspective, peace of mind, personal renewal, spiritual transformation, heart-opening experiences, and healing of the body and spirit.

Nichols writes in Blue Mind, “Water is medicine for those who need it most…and everyone else…. being near it can calm and connect us, increase innovation and insight, and even heal what’s broken.”

A retreat at the beach increases the benefits of being in the environment, and the oceanside environment increases the benefits of the retreat experience.

A beach retreat is an ideal time to take a break from the demands of every-day life, gain perspective, and restore mind, body and spirit.

“In still moments by the sea life seems large and simple. It is there we can see into ourselves.” –Rolf Edberg

An oceanfront retreat is an opportunity for connection to Source, spirit, and for self-discovery, spiritual awakening and transcendence. The very definition of transcendent experience defines the retreat experience: surpassing or extending beyond the limits of ordinary experience. When people immerse themselves in a transformative retreat experience, their ordinary lives take the back seat and it becomes a sacred time for personal growth and self-discovery. Like the ocean, we learn more about the infinite depths of our own being and gain a sense of the transcendent “I am…”

As Serbian poet Dejan Stojanovic articulates so beautifully, “I am the shore and the ocean, awaiting myself on both sides.”

After her own transformative and life-changing personal retreat at the ocean, Joan Anderson decided to make it an ongoing part of her life and now offers oceanside retreats for others. She says, “I am as unfinished as the shoreline along the beach, meant to transcend myself again and again.”

My Experience on Transformative Retreats

This has also been my personal experience. During my first one-week oceanfront retreat, I experienced the healing of chronic physical pain and grief, had a very deep and transformative feeling of “coming home” to myself and experiencing safety in the world, and met people who have had a lasting impact on my life. Ever since then, I’ve been committed to sharing this transformative experience with others.

Besides deep healing and spiritual transformation, a retreat at the beach makes for a vibrant and pleasurable, even fun, adventure of a lifetime. Wouldn’t you rather learn and grow through pleasurable experience, instead of the hard work of personal growth through challenge? I made that intention for myself ten years ago, before setting off on my first oceanfront retreat, and I’m grateful for the life of adventure and empowerment that I’ve experienced ever since.

Our great seas and oceans offer a voyage of a lifetime for those willing to dive in. –Rajesh

Transformation with Enicia Fisher

Thanksgiving Retreat at the beach November, 2022, with Enicia Fisher: https://retreats.layoga.com/pages/come-home-to-aia-thanksgiving-retreat-with-enicia-fisher

More about Enicia Fisher and her forthcoming book, Sea of Bliss: https://www.eniciafisher.com
More about Enicia Fisher and her healing retreats in the Riviera Maya: https://www.sanadorasanctuary.com

Enicia Fisher

Enicia Fisher loves to hold sacred space for healing and transformative experiences by guiding people to come home to their body, breath, Nature, and Spirit. She has been curating, hosting, and offering healing retreats since 2012 in the US and Mexico. Founder of Sanadora Sanctuary Retreats and Sanadora Yoga International Teacher Training Program, Enicia has taught yoga since 2005 and has been practicing yoga personally since 2000. She loves yoga because of its mind-body approach and because of the healing power of integrating all aspects of being through the wide range of yogic practices: body, emotions, mind, soul, spirit, philosophy and mindset, and lifestyle practices.

Enicia created and leads Heart Alignment Yoga? and “heartfulness” meditation with an emphasis on Divine heart qualities and life-affirming yoga philosophy that inspires people to live with a deeper connection to their own heart, body, and spirit.
Enicia has a Master’s degree in Education, founded a small private school in Southern California, and is registered with Yoga Alliance as a highly trained and experienced teacher, E-RYT 500.

Enicia is a mother to two wonderfully creative and grounded young adults and is also an author currently preparing her first novel for publication. A Southern California native, Enicia now divides her time between her family base in Los Angeles and San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.

Enicia began leading retreats in the Riviera Maya in 2015, and has offered ten retreats in the region since then. She lived in Akumal/Tulum for three years and continues to collaborate with local healers and ceremonialists on all of her retreats, in honor of the indigenous traditions and cultures being incorporated.

Enicia wishes to honor the Mayan guardians of the sacred lands of Tulum (Ekab), and her teachers who have shared their wisdom and practices:  Leon Xochitl Coatl, Adrián Salas Xopan, and Devi Chandra Ma from Quintana Roo, and Ashley Fiala, Doreen Madison, and David Kutruff from Shraddhaa Yoga School.

www.eniciafisher.com/

The post Why Go to the Ocean: Wellness Benefits of the Beach appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.

Located on the sandy beaches of the Dominican Republic, the 478-room Meliá Punta Cana Beach Wellness Inclusive Adults Only offers a collection of buildings surrounded by gardens and connected to swimming pools and the beach by a network of walkways.  The wellness-inclusive concept is built around five spaces of wellness: social spaces (for activities), silent spaces, sensory spaces, culinary spaces and personal spaces, along with a significant respect for nature and exploring the local culture.

Talking to Reyes Guzman About Wellness

We spoke with Wellness Sales Director Reyes Guzman about Meliá Punta Cana Beach Wellness Inclusive Adults Only and how she incorporates wellness into her own life.

Wellness Sales Director Reyes Guzman at Meliá Punta Cana Beach

How long have you been with Meliá Punta Cana Beach A Wellness Inclusive Resort Adults Only, and what do you do with this property?

I am the Wellness Sales Director, and I have been with the company for 22 years.

There are so many hotels, resorts, retreats and tour operators offering wellness programs and packages – tell us a bit about Meliá Punta Cana Beach A Wellness Inclusive Resort Adults Only, and what are the main point(s) of distinction?

Meliá Punta Cana Beach offers a collection of activities and rituals designed to connect guests with their physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, social and environmental development through the resort’s five wellness spaces: Social, Silent, Sensory, Culinary and Personal.

As part of the resort’s weekly wellness program, wellness experts (both locals plus guest practitioners) guide guests through special wellness activities including mud cleansing, holistic therapy, sound healing, ayurvedic cooking, juicing detox programs and active fitness classes.

These facilitated activities are in addition to the resort’s regular inclusive offerings of other activities such as bike tours, yoga and meditation sessions, garden workshops and a new and challenging obstacle course.

What pandemic-inspired policies and procedures has Meliá Punta Cana Beach implemented to keep travelers healthy and safe?

We have sanitising stations at restaurant entrances and most other public locations throughout the property. We maintain other Stay Safe by Meliá protocols, certified by Bureau Veritas, an international group specializing in preventative measures to keep visitors safe from COVID-19.

What does Meliá Punta Cana Beach offer that might attract a customer like the readers of LA Yoga?

Our partnership with Stay Well by Delos provides enhanced wellness accommodation thru The Level Wellness Suites by Stay Well. A total of 32 of our suites offer special features including mood-enhancing aromatherapy, dawn simulation to wake guests gradually and gently, an air purification system, thermal mattress for back support, and an interactive App with access to the Cleveland Clinic wellness program.

Other Stay Well amenities of The Level Wellness Suites include a welcome and guided digital meditation from Dr. Deepak Chopra, one spa treatment per day per person, a personal wellness concierge plus private pool spaces. We also host special wellness events on globally recognized dates such as International Day of Yoga and World Wellness Weekend (Sept. 16,17,18, 2022) plus other celebrations that are part of our Wellness Events Calendar.

Another big attraction for the wellness-minded is our weekly culinary workshops, such as Juice Therapy and Ayurvedic Cooking. And, of course, our restaurants offer healthy options for any diet including include Vegeterian, Vegan, and Gluten Free.

How do you incorporate wellness into your own daily life?

• Keeping an exercise practice based on stretching, running, breathing before starting my day’s routine.
• Taking time to meditate at the end of the day.
• Spending time with my family and friends.
• Getting enough sleep.

What are the top wellness trends you are seeing at Meliá Punta Cana Beach?

An increased interest in participating and learning more about wellness practices such as more conscious eating. Plus, more guests are telling us they want to incorporate these new practices into their daily routines after they return home.

Do you feel technology is important as it pertains to wellness, and if yes, how and why? If no, why not?

I believe that technology used consciously can be beneficial. For instance, apps dedicated to keep an exercise routine, incorporate meditation in their lives, or keep track of health improvements can all help in their own small ways.

Here at Melia Punta Cana Beach, we have integrated technology in our Wellness Suites by Stay Well with special amenities such as the Wake Up Light-Clock that helps our guests wake up gradually plus combines both light and sound to create a more natural wake-up experience.

There’s also the Air Purification System that reduce allergens, toxins, smoke and microbes from the air, and the Aromatherapy Machine allowing guests to select a specific scent intensity in their rooms.

Do you and, if yes, how do you incorporate the local community or culture into the programing at Meliá Punta Cana Beach?

We have incorporated local culture experiences and community into our programing with local wellness experts leading wellness activities and workshops including a weekly Taino Percussion Workshop where guests can learn how our Taino ancestors used to play drums on special occasions and during sacred ceremonies and rituals.

Also 90% of the products used in the treatments offering in our YHI Spa are organic and locally sourced.

What is your final note of advice for living your best life?

Be mindful, be present in the moment.

The mantra that leads both my personal and professional life is, “May Your Wellness be a Must!”

Learn More About Melia Punta Cana Beach

Meliá Punta Cana Beach Wellness Inclusive Adults Only

Anne Dimon

Co-Founder and President /CEO of the Wellness Tourism Association, Anne Dimon has been a travel writer and industry journalist for close to 25 years, and has traveled the world as a columnist/contributor to a variety of publications. Anne is also Owner/ Editor of TravelToWellness.com launched in 2004 as the first online magazine/resource for the wellness-minded traveler. Prior to her life as a journalist, Anne was president of her own public relations company specializing in hospitality. She has also worked in the hotel industry as a director of public relations. An acknowledged wellness travel expert and industry consultant, Anne is also the co-author of The Travel Institute’s new Wellness Travel Specialist Course.

www.TravelToWellness.com

The post Wellness is All-Inclusive at Meliá Punta Cana Beach appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.

Have you experienced pangs of anxiety and overwhelm over the past three years? We’ve all had long days, even months, and dare I say years, of low-grade anxiety about the state of the world and our place in it. Is it any wonder the world of wellness is now a 4.5 billion dollar industry? One thing I know for sure, we can’t control the outer world, but we can understand who we truly are to remain at peace in a world of chaos and uncertainty. For many of us, a wellness retreat is the answer to connecting back to the Who, of who we really are. But how can you choose the right style of wellness retreat–one that suits your unique personality type?

What if You Get into the Wrong Retreat? Travelers Shared Why Their Wellness Retreat Was a Miss

For more than a decade, I worked in the world of luxury travel. To my surprise, many well-heeled travelers were miserable.

Over the years, I spoke with hundreds upon hundreds of travelers who said they weren’t happy with things; retreat sessions, spa, food, beach, room, or really, anything. Seriously, I didn’t get it. So I questioned them further.

Almost all the travelers I spoke with finally came to this conclusion: they didn’t know themselves. They didn’t how to choose the right style of wellness retreat that actually fit their personality or preferences because they didn’t actually know themselves well.

When this truth was revealed, I understood why so many were unhappy.

It was a harsh awakening for many, and for others, a new beginning.

Why am I so adamant about personality typing?

Within your personality are traits that give you answers to life’s most pressing questions. Your personality type is a highly personalized GPS system. It even helps you choose the perfect wellness retreat for your type.

Do you know your personality type?

If not, may I recommend using Myers-Briggs®? It’s $49.95 for an accurate test.

Personality Max is also a good choice, and it’s free.

Explore Your Traits to Figure Out the Right Style of Wellness Retreat for You

Here’s a cheat sheet if you don’t know your type or if you need a quick refresher. Realize your personality type offers a distinct set of indicators identify personal preferences. Of course, there is so much more to your story.

For now, this is a good place to start.

• Do you welcome the outer world (extrovert) or the inner world (introvert)?
• How do you gather information through the five senses (sensing) or through the five senses into the world of imagery (intuition)?
• Will you decide based on how you or others feel (feeling), or do you use a more objective approach or do you use a more objective approach (thinking)?
• Are you a list maker, a planner, an organizer (judging), or do you prefer spontaneity, going with the flow, (perceiver)?

Once you understand your personality traits, you’ll be lit-up with ah-ha moments!

Understanding yourself includes how you can choose the right wellness retreat for your personality type.

These 16 travel personality types provide an exclusive sneak-peek into personality typing with a spiritual understanding.

As a personality type shaman, I’m showing a revolutionary new way to put your soul self back into psychology. This appears in my upcoming book: 16 Personalities Unpacked – Get to Know the Real You and Travel Happier!

The list below is a must-read to plan an ideal wellness retreat based on your personality type.

Who doesn’t want to book the perfect getaway to soothe the mind, body, and soul?

Wellness Retreats for Introverts

Introverts gravitate to retreats in quiet settings and intimate learning opportunities. They relish time for solitude, reflection, and inner mind exploration; studying sacred texts, self-directed meditation, solo hikes to explore nature, and much more.

Grounded Travelers (ISTJ)

Grounded types like slow travel and trust authority. You’re likely to visit a tried-and-true wellness retreat. A good option is Canyon Ranch, one of the leader in wellness retreats since 1979.

Unassuming Travelers (ISFJ)

Unassuming travelers prefer structured retreats in peaceful surroundings discussing spiritual matters or taking part in prayer circles. You learn by doing, which makes Genesee Abbey worth a look–the 1,200-acre property is swoon-worthy.

Insightful Travelers (INFJ)

Insightful travelers are old souls, highly intuitive, and desire ongoing personal growth. You like a group retreat setting and have much to share. Consider International Re-Entry* a top choice for your type.

Inventive Travelers (INTJ)

Inventive travelers are talkative and engaged in intellectual topics of interest if you can get them to travel. They prefer structure and will opt for retreats, searching for the truth of all things. The self-guided retreats at The Monastery In Christ may be interesting to learn and worship with insights from Benedictine Monks.

Active Travelers (ISTP)

Active travelers are the definition of extreme adventure travelers. They seek action-packed wellness retreats: Castle Hot Springs, Arizona, fits the bill, where adventures await in the Sonoran Desert.

Aesthetic Travelers (ISFP)

Aesthetic travelers want active travel experiences to stimulate the five senses. Take a look at Casa Alternavida, Puerto Rico, with movement classes, guided nature hikes, and beach adventures. It’s so you.

Seeking Travelers (INFP)

Seeking travelers are attracted to retreats that provide quiet settings, time for journaling, and other reflective activities. This creative writing and yoga retreat in Scotland is worth exploring.

Autonomous for INTP on Vacation

Autonomous travelers want to understand the unbiased aspects of spirituality or religion. They may find the Rishikesh Retreat Center, Uttarakhand, India, interesting as it dives deep into the ancient religions of Asia.

Wellness Retreats For Extroverts

Extroverts typically seek retreats to engage with others and favor more activity options and time to make new friends. Typically, active and action oriented, these travelers are typically on the go.

Spirited Travelers (ESTP)

Spirited travelers are likely to take an annual retreat to disengage from the world to reengage with the nonphysical aspects of self, a healthy option, The Way of the Heart – Wild Bloom.*

Playful Travelers (ESFP)

Playful travelers engage with other retreat goers in joyful spirituality. They bring vitality to whatever they do. They may choose Palmaïa, The House of AïA. In Playa del Carmen, Mexico, this location offers yoga, meditation, art, and healing with nightly dance music and beachside bonfires.

Versatile Travelers (ENFP)

Versatile travelers are lively, energetic and travel for novel experiences, try to keep up, as they are like the Energizer Bunny. They slow down long enough to gather in a community with time for discussion and spiritual discovery; Lake Austin Spa and Resort, Austin, Texas, is a fabulous choice, with activities galore.

Inquisitive Travelers (ENTP)

Inquisitive travelers are novelty hunters, curious about all things, and love to learn. They’re likely to choose a learning-based wellness retreat, that’s far removed from conventional retreats. This 4 Day Luxury Yoga, Detox & Bokator Retreat in Majestical Cambodia, is worth a look.

Dutiful Travelers (ESTJ)

Dutiful travelers are likely to book structured learning retreats. Then enjoy camaraderie with other like-minded participants. Passion in Paradise* may be an option for those who want to cultivate healthier intimate relationships.

Attentive Travelers (ESFJ)

Attentive travelers love tradition and are often the ring leading in gathering a group of friends for a wellness retreat. A good pick is Dunton Hot Springs Retreat: Dolores, Colorado. It’s cozy and comfortable, just like you like!

Harmonious Travelers (ENFJ)

Harmonious travelers are fairly scheduled, highly interactive, want to learn and make new friends. Rancho La Puerta, Tecate, Mexico, is ideal. Take sunrise hikes, schedule activities, and try the meditation labyrinth. You’ll be served sumptuous organic treats plucked from the onsite sustainable, organic farm, so you!

Assured Travelers (ENTJ)

Assured travelers want to be challenged and will opt out of inactive and trivial travel adventures. A visit to Ashiyana, India, fits the bill as it’s all about finding your “Best You,” a challenging task for even the most experienced yogis. Don’t worry; you’re up for the challenge.

The intention of this post is to awaken you to spiritual personality typing.

This is self-exploration from the inside out.

It helps you choose the right style of wellness retreat so you can actually enjoy your vacation!!

We’ve provided retreat options to help you take inspired action through best-matched wellness experiences.

Isn’t it time to travel from the inside out?

Time to explore your nonphysical self, which is always eager to experience the physical world?

* These retreats are sanctioned through LA Yoga Magazine without affiliation to the writer.

Nina Zapala

Nina Zapala is a personality type shaman and a certified Myers-Briggs® instructor with decades of travel experience. Hundreds of travelers worldwide shared their unhappiness stories, claiming a lack of self-awareness about their true self. Zapala is on a mission to reshape personality typing, layered with spiritual insights to enable beautiful souls from around the globe to unveil the who of who they really are. Please visit Nina Zapala  to learn more.

www.ninazapala.com

The post Choose the Right Style of Wellness Retreat for You! appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.

At STRATA Integrated Wellness and Spa, medical wellness meets nature. The location features a team of more than thirty acclaimed, board-certified physicians and award-winning therapists across more than forty disciplines.

STRATA integrates the best of Western and Eastern medical science with nutrition, fitness, meditation, and mindfulness coaching. The purpose is to provide guests with a fresh perspective, a greater level of whole-person wellness, and a renewed sense of possibility.

We spoke with team member Mikaila Foster about STRATA, where medical wellness meets nature, and how she incorporates wellness into her own life.

How long have you been with STRATA and what do you do with this property?

As a yoga teacher at the Garden of the Gods Resort within STRATA Fit, I support many of the STRATA integrated wellness programs. I have enjoyed teaching weekly group yoga classes, retreat yoga classes, and partner yoga. Recently I developed a Golf Fit program focused on mobility, stability, strength and power for club members to ultimately enjoy the stunning on-site golf course without pain or injury.

I often teach yoga outdoors on our Mesa Terrace overlooking majestic views of Garden of the Gods Park, a registered National Natural Landmark. During classes, we are often graced with deer and rabbits out on the grass enjoying the peaceful energy of the property.

I teach vinyasa-style yoga. The practice is less about getting your body into physical poses, and more about using each asana (pose) to connect deeper to your body, mind and spirit. I incorporate pranayama or mindful breathing into each class to honor our life source and uncover our inner light, while often connecting that breath to movement and mindful intentions. As a physical therapist, I enjoy offering thoughtful hands-on assist to each yogi who consents to personal touch. This brings the power of human touch into the yoga experience and facilitates a deeper awareness and connection in our body.

Today, there are so many hotels, resorts, retreats and tour operators offering wellness programs and packages. Tell us a bit about STRATA and what is the main point of distinction?

The history of Colorado Springs is fascinating. When the city was founded by General Palmer in 1871, he was enamored and instantly had a grand vision of a sophisticated town to attract both U.S. and international visitors for the health benefits of the plentiful sunshine, dry climate, and clean air. That vision came true with many beautiful resorts in our city. However, none as comprehensive and health-focused as STRATA at Garden of the Gods Resort.

There is a healing energy present at STRATA at Garden of the Gods Resort and Club, as you are surrounded by mountains and enchanting red rock formations. This sets the stage for your experience, though ultimately the genuine energy of the team members and integrative providers makes the experience transformative. The three separate, but collaborative aspects of STRATA are: Med, Body, and Fit.

Guests are offered a uniquely holistic approach to wellness where their self-care meets healthcare. There is something beneficial to offer each guest within each realm of STRATA to help you find a deeper connection to yourself and your inner light.

What pandemic-inspired policies and procedures has STRATA implemented to keep travelers healthy and safe?

In many ways, we have followed one of the Eight Limbs of Yoga Yamas (social ethics). This includes ahimsa: meaning do no harm and act with kindness. Most STRATA team members are vaccinated and demonstrate the highest quality of care for our guests and other team members regarding safety with COVID protocols. We continue to offer group fitness classes over Zoom, along with telehealth appointments for STRATA Med. We offer hand sanitizer throughout the resort and the staff adheres to strict hand-hygiene policies.

Additionally, we offer many beautiful outdoor seating spaces and options for individualized programming. This allows guests to maintain distance, but still experience all the various wellness options on site.

What does STRATA offer that might attract the readers of LA Yoga?

STRATA Fit offers high quality yoga classes outdoors with spectacular views of the Garden of the Gods Park. There is an expansive fitness center sharing those views over the infinity pool, private Pilates reformer classes and private yoga classes. STRATA Med complements these offerings with a la carte IV Nutritional Therapy, Chiropractic Medicine, Naturopathic care, Acupuncture and Ayurvedic sessions.

While yoga classes offer the physical asanas and pranayama, STRATA also offers mindfulness sessions with a licensed psychotherapy team, mindful hiking experiences, and ayurvedic interventions incorporating herbal formulas to augment healing. All combine to help guests accept a lifestyle, routine, and diet that is uniquely harmonizing. Additionally, STRATA Body offers various therapeutic massage options, facials and a full-service salon. We often have special guests for live music and sound bath events arranged, in advance, with guest interest.

How do you incorporate wellness into your own daily life?

As a yoga teacher and physical therapist, I truly believe that movement is medicine and when we move our best, we live our best life. Movement, after all, is how we play, how we work and often how we love through dancing, lifting up children and embracing our loved ones.

However, I also value the importance of a balanced anti-inflammatory diet, sufficient hydration (especially at Colorado’s high elevation), mindfulness, nature, breathwork and mental health care. I move my body daily including hikes with my sweet dog, yoga, Lagree and cycling. I meditate weekly and participate in weekly therapy sessions to maintain mental clarity and stay connected to myself.

In addition, I believe rest and restorative treatments  to be key for wellness. So I strive to schedule monthly therapeutic massages and chiropractic care as needed to help me continue to move and feel my best.

Spending time in nature is a powerful aspect of wellness, and we are fortunate to live in one of the most beautiful states.

While in nature, I often enjoy finding a deeper connection to that space with various breath work exercises including box breathing (4 seconds inhale, 4 seconds apnea (holding the breath), 4 seconds exhale, 4 seconds apnea.

During this time, I also find myself deeply grateful for the blessings in my life. One of my favorite gratitude practices is to notice one thing I am grateful for that I have seen with my eyes, heard with my ears, felt on my skin, tasted with my tongue, and smelt with my nose.

This practice helps illuminate the beauty in life and the beauty in how we experience the world around us.

What are the top wellness trends you are seeing at STRATA?

Since COVID restrictions have decreased, more members and guests are participating in group fitness classes, not only for the valuable physical exercise, but for the powerful collective energy in each class which provides a sense of community and belonging to all who are present.

I hear more members share their success stories and impact from sessions with the STRATA chiropractors, naturopaths and acupuncturist, using these treatments to ultimately help them get back to moving well to enjoy the activities that they love without the hassle of accessing care in the traditional health care system.

Do you feel technology is important as it pertains to wellness, and if yes, how and why? If no, why not?

I often feel conflicted about the role technology plays in our wellness. Of course, it is fun and often helpful to track our steps, calories or activities each day – and I especially love when some of the smart watches remind us to breathe and even help with slowing our breath. I also look forward to the potential of how our smart devices can bring both fitness and medicine to us at our convenience, anywhere in the world.

However, I also sometimes see technology as an unhelpful distraction. Perhaps a smart watch goes off during a yoga class or cycling class and disrupts a powerful moment, or perhaps we focus so much on ‘closing our rings’ on our watch that we do not take the adequate time to rest and restore our body.

I believe that stays at STRATA would be most powerful with limited distraction from both cell phones and smart watch devices, allowing each guest to be present in the moment and allowing themselves to be truly present in the magnificent nature surrounding them. This also allows us to practice another one of the Eight Limbs of Yoga, dhyana (de-concentration), which allows us to let go and drop efforts into easeful meditation.

Do you and, if yes, how do you incorporate the local community or culture into the programing at STRATA?

We often plan community events around holidays including a Turkey Trot and a Halloween Trunk or Treat for the children in the area.

In Colorado, there is a loving but also competitive culture in our community, which we nourish with various competitions each month to excite the community. Additionally, there is rich history to be explored nearby from the Pioneer Museum downtown, the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, Cave of the Winds and the beautiful Garden of the Gods Park itself.

What is your final note of advice for living your best life?

Take time to pause and be present in each moment to enjoy the small things. Find gratitude in the strength of your body, the power of your thoughts and the love in your community. Nurture each of those aspects of your life, for when you move well, think well and love well – you ultimately live well.

Anne Dimon

Co-Founder and President /CEO of the Wellness Tourism Association, Anne Dimon has been a travel writer and industry journalist for close to 25 years, and has traveled the world as a columnist/contributor to a variety of publications. Anne is also Owner/ Editor of TravelToWellness.com launched in 2004 as the first online magazine/resource for the wellness-minded traveler. Prior to her life as a journalist, Anne was president of her own public relations company specializing in hospitality. She has also worked in the hotel industry as a director of public relations. An acknowledged wellness travel expert and industry consultant, Anne is also the co-author of The Travel Institute’s new Wellness Travel Specialist Course.

www.TravelToWellness.com

The post Medical Wellness Meets Nature at STRATA appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.

So you’re looking for an enchanting location for your destination wedding?

Get ready to have your mind blown!

We’ve rounded up 10 of the most amazing locations in Mexico and the Caribbean for your big day.

From beaches to jungles to luxurious getaways, get ready to fall in love.

And to sweeten the deal, we’ve included prices so you can start planning your day today!

Ready to find the one for you?

Come, take a look…

Top 10 Destination Wedding Locations

1. Sky Terrace at Royalton Riviera Cancun
2. Pier Deck at Generations Riviera Maya
3. Catholic Chapel at Wyndham Alltra Cancun
4. Sunset Rooftop at Dreams Tulum
5. Beachfront Gazebo at The Fives Beach
6. Uh May at Azulik Tulum
7. Oceanfront Lawn at Montage Hotels Cabos San Lucas
8. Amphitheater at Flora Farms Cabo
9. Casa Karma Puerto Vallarta
10. The Cove, Eleuthera in the Bahamas

1. Sky Terrace at the Royalton Riviera Cancun

FAMILY-FRIENDLY | ALL-INCLUSIVE | CANCUN
If you’re looking for a truly breathtaking experience, look no further than a wedding at the Royalton Riviera Cancun on their Sky Terrace.

This wedding venue offers stunning panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea that will leave you & your guests speechless.

It holds up to 90 guests, starting at $1500 with a wedding package of your choice.

Not to mention, the resort itself is absolutely gorgeous and perfect for a destination wedding.

With over 800 suites & villas, outstanding service & world-class amenities, you’ll be well taken care of.
And you’ll never run out of things to do!

At the Royalton, you’ll have day & night entertainment, including:

• Live music & shows
• Dance lessons
• Water activities like snorkeling, paddle boarding & more
• Cooking classes
• Kid’s club & splash park for the little ones

2. Pier Deck at Generations Riviera Maya

FAMILY-FRIENDLY | ALL-INCLUSIVE | CANCUN
For an intimate & romantic setting, a wedding on the Pier at Generations Riviera Maya is a no-brainer.

This beautiful wedding venue overlooks the turquoise waters of the Mexican Riviera and provides a perfect backdrop for your special day.

It can host up to 150 guests with prices starting at $1,300.

Plus, the resort offers plenty of activities for you & your guests to enjoy.

Choose from:

• Tequila tasting with your wedding group
• Aqua aerobics
• Spanish lessons
• Greenhouse tour
• Water polo
• Beach volleyball & more

Or simply soak up the sun on the beach & let the waves wash away your pre-wedding jitters!

3. Catholic Chapel at Wyndham Alltra Cancun

FAMILY-FRIENDLY | ALL-INCLUSIVE | CANCUN

If you’re looking for a traditional yet unique venue, the Catholic Chapel at Wyndham Alltra Cancun is 1-of-a-kind.

It overlooks the Caribbean Sea & provides a stunning setting for your ceremony.

Prices start at $3,500 for up to 50 guests.

Photo by Ivan Luckie Photography

Looking to de-stress before your big day?

Head over to their Aura spa for an ancient Mayan-inspired treatment to melt away your worries.

Or start your day with oceanfront yoga, then dive into the water for some water aerobics!

By nighttime, you have plenty of options to keep you entertained:

• Live music & performances
• Theme parties
• Movie screenings & more!

4. Sunset Rooftop at Dreams Tulum

FAMILY-FRIENDLY | ALL-INCLUSIVE | TULUM

Tulum is a popular spot for destination weddings & it’s easy to see why.

The Sunset Rooftop wedding venue at Dreams Tulum is an absolutely stunning location for your ceremony.

It offers incredible views of the Caribbean Sea & lush greenery that will take your breath away.

This wedding venue can accommodate up to 150 guests starting at $1000 + your wedding package.

When you’re not basking in the sun or enjoying the views, there’s plenty to do at Dreams Tulum.

Take your pick from:

• A variety of water sports
• Dance & Spanish lessons
• Big-screen movies on the beach
• Cocktail & cooking lessons
• On-site spa & more

It’s also a short distance from famous ancient Mayan attractions & natural parks! Read this Dream Tulum wedding review for more info.

5. Beachfront Gazebo at The Fives Beach

FAMILY-FRIENDLY | ALL-INCLUSIVE | PLAYA DEL CARMEN

For a classic beachfront setting, the Beachfront Wedding Gazebo at The Fives Beach is perfect.

It’s situated right above the powdery white sand with stunning views of the turquoise waters.

This wedding venue can host up to 100 guests starting at $1000 + your wedding package.

At The Fives, you & your guests will enjoy plenty of activities to keep you busy.

There’s a world-class spa, several pools, a fitness center, water sports & more.

And if you’re looking for something fun for the kids, they have a kids club & teens lounge!

6. Uh May at Azulik Tulum

FAMILY-FRIENDLY | ALL-INCLUSIVE | TULUM

Azulik Tulum is unlike any other wedding venue on this list.

Set in the heart of the jungle, this eco-friendly resort has a focus on sustainability to reconnect you with nature.

It’s the perfect spot for couples looking for a mystical & magical experience.

The organic architecture of Uh May combines both native & contemporary art for an otherworldly experience.

This venue can accommodate up to 108 guests starting at $8,500.

Photo by Janelle Zara

The aesthetics are truly breathtaking & will make for some incredible photos.

Plus, there are plenty of activities for you & your guests to enjoy.

Choose from:

• Tribal gatherings
• Authentic Mayan healing ceremonies
• Yoga retreats
• Ceramic workshops
• Stunning on-site art museums
• Exquisite gastronomic experiences
• And so much more!

7. Oceanfront Lawn at Montage Hotels

FAMILY-FRIENDLY | CABO SAN LUCAS

Cabo is a popular spot for destination weddings & Montage Hotels does not disappoint.

Set in 1 of the prettiest areas of Cabo San Lucas, their oceanfront lawn is perfect for both intimate & grand celebrations.

This wedding venue can host up to 400 guests ranging from $10,000 – $30,000 in price.

The Montage Hotel also offers a variety of on-site activities for an unforgettable experience.

Guests can enjoy:

• Horse-back riding
• Whale watching
• Beach, desert & mountain ATV tours
• Outback & camel safari
• Water sports
• Ziplining

So if you & your wedding group are an adventurous bunch, this is the spot for you.

8. Amphitheater at Flora Farms Cabo

FAMILY-FRIENDLY | CABO SAN LUCAS

If you’re looking for a more rustic & bohemian vibe, Flora Farms is it.

Set on a working farm in the foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna mountains, this venue is truly 1-of-a-kind.

The amphitheater is set against a stunning backdrop of the mountains & ocean.

At Flora Farms, you’ll enjoy fresh, farm-to-table cuisine & impeccable service.

You can host up to 500 guests here, with prices ranging from $35,000 – $50,000.

Plus, there are plenty of on-site activities to keep you busy.

Choose from:

• Horseback riding
• Biking
• Wine tasting
• Cheese-making
• Cooking classes & more!

While it’s more pricey than other destinations on this list, it’s definitely worth every penny.

Especially if privacy & seclusion is what you’re after.

Maroon 5’s Adam Levine & model Behati Prinsloo flocked to these farms for that reason!

9. Beachfront at Casa Karma Puerto Vallarta

FAMILY-FRIENDLY | PUERTO VALLARTA

Casa Karma is a beautiful boutique resort for intimate destination weddings.

Once a private villa, it has since been re-imagined into a luxury 8-villa property.

Their Conchas Chinas beachfront wedding venue offers scenic sunset views & can host up to 60 guests.

Prices start at $3000, but you can score a major discount by renting all 8 villas!

Photo by Eder Acevedo

For guests looking for something fun to do, there are tons of activities on & off-site.

Choose from:

• Botanical gardens
• Whale-watching
• Snorkeling
• Ziplines
• ATV tours
• Shopping

You can also indulge in massages by the pool, yoga classes, or private cooking classes!

10. The Cove, Eleuthera in Bahamas

FAMILY-FRIENDLY | PUERTO VALLARTA

Want to get away from the hustle & bustle of city life?

The Cove, Eleuthera provides a boutique and intimate oasis for you & your boo.

Set on a secluded beach in between 2 private coves, this venue offers refined luxury & custom ceremonies to fit your vision.

With sweeping ocean views, The Cove can host up to 150 guests starting at $350 per person.

Guests can enjoy plenty of activities on-site, including:

• Boat excursions
• Organic garden tour
• Sunset yoga
• Biking the glass window bridge & neighboring islands
• Water activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, scuba diving

With its pristine beaches & lush vegetation, The Cove is a true slice of paradise.

Want to explore a destination wedding?

Did you find that jaw-dropping, heart-skipping destination on this list?

Not sure where to start with the planning process? Check out ParadiseWeddings.com.

They’ve helped 100’s of couples plan their dream destination wedding — will yours be next?

Let the dreaming begin!

Samantha Wishard

Destination wedding planner extraordinaire and writer of all things weddings, Samantha covers style, venues, and tips & tricks to planning your wedding abroad.

The post Top 10 Jaw-Dropping Destination Wedding Locations + Prices appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.

At The Springs Resort, Director of Resort Wellness Operations tells us about what make the Colorado resort special. With the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring at its core, Mother Nature is the star at The Springs Resort,  a 79-room Condé Nast Traveler award winner and Member of the Wellness Tourism Association  We spoke with Sharon Holtz, Director of Resort Wellness Operations to find out why The Springs Resort is a good place to explore, resort and connect, plus how she incorporates wellness into her own life.

Conversation with Sharon Holtz, Director of Resort Wellness Operations

1. How long have you been with The Springs Resort, and what do you do with this property?

I have been with The Springs Resort, located in the town of Pagosa Springs, (about a five-hour drive from Denver, Colorado) since April of 2021. I have the pleasure of overseeing the property through the lens of wellness, with all of its offerings, amenities and programming.

2. There are so many hotels, resorts, retreats and tour operators offering wellness programs and packages – tell us a bit about The Springs Resort, and what is the main point of distinction?

Our geothermal mineral water that fills our 25 soaking pools creates a one-of-a-kind wellness experience for our guests. The water comes from The Mother Spring, the deepest measured spring known in the world. We don’t even know how deep it is, as after 1,002 feet, we ran out of plumbline to measure it. This deep source of water has a truly unique mineral content that provides many benefits to our guests.

The benefits of soaking are then enhanced with our other wellness activities that are included for our overnight guests who stay with us. All of this set, in the beautiful San Juan Mountains of the Rockies, creates an opportunity to reconnect with nature and bring you a sense of renewed well-being.

3. What pandemic-inspired policies and procedures has The Springs Resort implemented to keep travelers healthy and safe?

We continue to keep our guests’ health and safety our priority and our policies align with that priority.

4. What does The Springs Resort offer that might attract a customer like the readers of LA Yoga?

A break from the urban environment that many live in is essential to connect with yourself and other loved ones in your life. Being able to come visit The Springs Resort and be surrounded by three million acres of National Forest, beautiful mountain peaks and tranquil flowing rivers envelops you in the energy of Mother Nature. This place of connection allows you to find ways to nurture your well-being and rejuvenate your spirit.

5. How do you incorporate wellness into your own daily life?

My wellness is about the rituals I put into place for myself, my yoga practice, and being mindful of the food I eat. My evening rituals are one-on-one time with each of my children, a tea ritual with my husband and an evening ritual for myself. These allow me to have a quiet time for connecting that grounds me and brings me peace of mind. Morning rituals with key essential oils helps me start my day off with the right mindset.

6. What are the top wellness trends you seeing at The Springs Resort?

The guest interest in Aqua Yoga and our Warrior Plunge, a guided “contrast bathing” (the back and forth use of hot and cold pools) experience, are definitely our most popular. Practicing yoga while soaking in mineral-rich geothermal water is very special. The support and warmth of the water can deepen the practice, yet is very approachable to those who are new to yoga.

The Warrior Plunge begins with a soak in a hot pool to warm the core and muscles of the body, guests are then guided into the adjacent San Juan River (which averages 50-60 degrees, depending upon the season) for about one minute to experience the fortifying benefits of contrast bathing.

We are just launching a new experience which is our Aqua Sound Bathing. Using Tibetan singing bowls to amplify the benefits of the sound vibrations and the water together. The feedback so far has been very positive about the profound impact.

7. Do you feel technology is important as it pertains to wellness, and if yes, how and why? If no, why not?

Advances in technology can absolutely facilitate the accessibility of wellness to many people and create opportunities to learn more about what your body may need or benefit from. At The Springs Resort, we are working with a Naturopathic Doctor to develop a series of educational and interactive Wellness Guides in print, digital, and audible formats. The guides will lead guests through unique pathways that take advantage of varying pool temperatures to optimize their soaking experience and enhance their desired results.

So far, we have created pathways for Sleep, Detox, and Recovery, we are very excited to launch these new intentional wellness experiences. The key with digital technology is to ensure that you know how to disconnect from it. It should not be given the power to overtake our capacity to connect with ourselves, others and nature.

8. Do you and, if yes, how do you incorporate the local community or culture into the programing at The Springs Resort?

Pagosa Springs is a small, tight-knit community of about 2,000 people. Our community is essential to us. We look for ways to partner with members of our local community and small businesses, to provide guest experiences unique to Pagosa Springs. Culturally, we guide a daily Gratitude Ceremony where we reflect on our history, pay respect and give gratitude to the Mother Spring. We thank her for the impact her healing waters have on our guests, associates, and community- just as people have done for thousands of years.

9. What is your final note of advice for living your best life?

Remain open to new experiences and opportunities, as you may not know the true gift of what is being presented until a later time. Smile, laugh and play more!

Anne Dimon

Co-Founder and President /CEO of the Wellness Tourism Association, Anne Dimon has been a travel writer and industry journalist for close to 25 years, and has traveled the world as a columnist/contributor to a variety of publications. Anne is also Owner/ Editor of TravelToWellness.com launched in 2004 as the first online magazine/resource for the wellness-minded traveler. Prior to her life as a journalist, Anne was president of her own public relations company specializing in hospitality. She has also worked in the hotel industry as a director of public relations. An acknowledged wellness travel expert and industry consultant, Anne is also the co-author of The Travel Institute’s new Wellness Travel Specialist Course.

www.TravelToWellness.com

The post Wellness Initiatives in the Water at The Springs Resort appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.

At The Ranch Malibu, Co-Founder Sue Glasscok Focuses on Creating Healthy Habits

Malibu, California, has long been synonymous with wellness, hiking in nature, and expansive ocean views. The Ranch Malibu offers people the opportunity to immerse themselves in a health and wellness travel experience that is curated by experts, including The Ranch Malibu Co-Founder and Chief Creative Director Sue Glasscock. Guests can go on vacation and implement habits with long-lasting results. There are reasons why this Wellness Tourism Association Member property has won numerous awards and accolades. We talked to Sue Glasscock about what makes The Ranch unique as well as how she incorporates wellness in her own life.

Q & A with Sue Glasscock, Co-Founder and Chief Creative Director at The Ranch Malibu

How long have you been with The Ranch Malibu, and what do you do with this property?

My husband, Alex, and I founded The Ranch in 2010 as a way to change people’s lives by sharing our combined passion for health, wellness, nature and design. Our shared passions led to the creation of The Ranch to offer a destination for people to get healthy, reset their minds and bodies and return to nature in an “off the grid” setting.

I oversee all aspects of the guest experience outside of the program itself, including the interior design of all rooms and common areas of The Ranch, curation of amenities and the landscape design throughout the property including the on-site organic garden. Additionally, I manage the development and design of The Ranch-branded beauty, apparel lines, and two cookbooks along with developing packaging for all branded products.

There are so many hotels, resorts, retreats and tour operators offering wellness programs and packages. Tell us a bit about The Ranch Malibu and what is the main point(s) of distinction?

The Ranch Malibu is a luxury, healthy lifestyle company featuring acclaimed, results-oriented, fitness and wellness programs including, The Ranch Malibu and The Ranch Private, and The Ranch 9.0. We’re also excited for The Ranch Italy at Palazzo Fiuggi to launch this May!

We are not your typical spa resort. Our no-options program is dedicated to improving the quality of our guests’ lives by improving their health. The Ranch experience is designed to recalibrate the mind and body through an intense fitness and wellness regimen paired with a highly-structured, plant-based nutritional diet. Each day consists of six hours of low impact activity – centered around a breathtaking and varied six-hour group hike each morning – afternoon nap time, fitness class, restorative yoga and daily massage, complemented by a plant-based, nutrient-dense diet.

What pandemic-inspired policies and procedures has The Ranch implemented to keep travelers healthy and safe?

The Ranch has implemented several policies and procedures in response to the pandemic. Our top priority is to keep our guests healthy and safe. Ranch Protection Kits are given to each guest and include a travel mask, Ranch bandana and hand sanitizer, plus air purifiers have been positioned throughout the common areas of the property, including massage rooms. We have also introduced more dining spaces for guests to eat at, including the outdoor garden café which overlooks our 3+-acres certified organic garden.

From a programming standpoint, The Ranch introduced The Ranch Private, which is a seven-day sequestered experience for up to four people. Perfect for those who would like to gain the benefits of our program but at a distance from the other guests on the property, The Ranch Private allows guests to experience The Ranch Malibu in a new and unique way. This program also allows for a completely customized experience and has been incredibly popular.

What does The Ranch offer that might attract a customer like the readers of LA Yoga?

During your stay at The Ranch, you are immersed in nature. From our morning mountain hikes to plant-based cuisine, nature serves as an inspiration and is an incredible way to calm the mind and bring awareness to the present moment – much like what one aims to achieve through yoga. We also offer daily restorative yoga classes so that you can maintain your practice during your stay.

Our location also makes it an easy “staycation” option for Californians with lasting benefits. Those who are unable to visit The Ranch in person can now bring The Ranch into their own homes. Our newest programs, The Ranch Integrative Health Plan and The Ranch 360, are led by Functional Nutritionist and Holistic Health Practitioner Bridgette Becker, who offers more than 25 years of experience. These programs provide at-home support to optimize one’s health. We are so excited that more people will be able to experience The Ranch, from the comfort of their own homes.

How do you incorporate wellness into your own daily life?

I incorporate wellness and The Ranch values into my life each day! I spend time in nature every day. Nature has incredible abilities to heal and support the mind and body. Additionally, I make movement a priority and make sure to monitor my steps. It is always fun to get active with family and friends. Gratitude is another huge component of The Ranch program, as we start and end each week-long program expressing gratitude. It helps keep our awareness in the present moment and trains the mind to seek the positive in life, rather than focusing on the negative. Each morning I like to write down three things I am grateful for as a way to honor this sentiment.

I like to use the “3-4-5” breathing technique.  Basically ,breath in through your nose three seconds, hold for four seconds and breath out for five seconds.  This helps reduce activation of stress state and encourages a calm, clear state. I do this throughout the day and notice it really works!

Lastly I take time to shut out all of the extra noise. It’s no secret that we are all bombarded with texts, emails and other notifications all day long. Our minds and bodies need time to “shut off” and relax. Through meditation, prayer, or just plain being aware of your breath for ten minutes a day can help alleviate the overstimulation, exhaustion and irritation so many of us feel from all the surrounding “noise”.

What are the top wellness trends you seeing at The Ranch?

Wellness at home has become more prevalent now than ever before. This trend gave us the opportunity to develop our own at-home programming. We want anyone to be able to experience The Ranch and realize the importance of anyone being able to bring the programs into their own homes.

Additionally, we are excited to be expanding our programs to Italy with The Ranch Italy opening in mid-May. Guests want more from The Ranch Malibu, and we are excited to offer our programs at Palazzo Fiuggi Medical Retreat.

Do you feel technology is important as it pertains to wellness, and if yes, how and why? If no, why not?

Yes, I believe that technology has changed how we live and made us accessible 24/7. I think that many people have lost the skill of relaxing and being engaged in life without their phones constantly in hand. Humans were not built to be constantly “on.” It raises our cortisol levels and effects our adrenals negatively. This can lead to weight gain, mood swings, inflammation and poor sleep; just to name a few adverse affects.

Our programs can help with a reset both mentally and physically and reframe your relationship with technology. By disconnecting for the week, you not only experience the physical and mental benefits of this separation. You can also realize that you might not need to be glued to your devices all of the time. You can then return home with a new mindset that supports a healthier relationship with technology and the intention to create time in your day to disconnect.

Do you and, if yes, how do you incorporate the local community or culture into the programing at The Ranch?

Yes, we do! Our staff regularly maintains local trails by removing litter from state and federal park land, including the local beaches. We additionally donate any food not used during our programs to local food banks. It is extremely important to us to be able to give back to our community.

What is your final note of advice for living your best life?

Practice Small Acts of Kindness. I practice small acts of kindness each day like allowing people to go in front of me in traffic, buying someone a coffee, taking time to call a loved one, or even dropping off some delicious fruits and veggies to a neighbor from our own garden. Being able to help others helps me live my best life each and every day.

Anne Dimon

Co-Founder and President /CEO of the Wellness Tourism Association, Anne Dimon has been a travel writer and industry journalist for close to 25 years, and has traveled the world as a columnist/contributor to a variety of publications. Anne is also Owner/ Editor of TravelToWellness.com launched in 2004 as the first online magazine/resource for the wellness-minded traveler. Prior to her life as a journalist, Anne was president of her own public relations company specializing in hospitality. She has also worked in the hotel industry as a director of public relations. An acknowledged wellness travel expert and industry consultant, Anne is also the co-author of The Travel Institute’s new Wellness Travel Specialist Course.

www.TravelToWellness.com

The post The Ranch Malibu: A Wellness Travel Option in California appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.

We are Now Redefining Work, Travel, and Life Priorities

After what has been one of the biggest disruption periods for industries worldwide, the pandemic has undoubtedly created a space for businesses and individuals to reflect on how they prefer to operate, consume information and most importantly, spend their time. More people than ever are working remotely, and at one point over the past couple years have reassessed their purpose and work/life balance priorities. We were once a culture that thrived on the word “hustle” and lived by the phrase “I’ll sleep when I die”, leaving little room for the pure joys of friendship, family, and travel. I do believe that the pandemic has put us in front of the mirror, forcing each of us to redefine what it is to be happy and how to spend our time within and outside the realm of work.

“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” ~ Saint Augustine

As the world begins to safely re-open, the term “travel” has begun to spark excitement amongst millions of people who already have wanderlust or perhaps have finally made that commitment to get out of town, finally visiting that dream destination.

As a culture we have seen these dream vacations pan out on social media, watching influencers and celebrities land in exotic places, snap a group photo on their phone and showing us all a video of the crystal blue water of Belize. There was a moment in 2020 when this all clicked. I’m looking at these incredible places on Instagram and wish I could just get there with a click of a button. I then think of the process of booking through multiple websites, potential site errors and fluctuating processes, and snap myself back into reality.

The world deserves an easier way to travel, with a process that is simple, intuitive and leaves the guesswork to the experts.

Without a doubt the way our parents and grandparents handled this was through a travel agency at some musty smelling office in the local shopping center. But last time I checked those are far and few to be found. What if someone could provide this service with a click, in the format that our current generation prefers, which is of course our phones and tablets: More than ever, this new generation of travelers have the flexibility to book a trip, bring their laptop and work or vacation from anywhere around the globe. This is where the idea for Luxury Travel Hackers had its genesis. I knew that a huge change was coming and that people are excited to travel once again.

Luxury Travel Hackers as a Solution for Modern-Day Travel

I kept thinking about all these core values that people were likely ignoring or neglecting pre-pandemic, and that over time it comes to a boil and there’s no turning away from what people love most. Getting outside, traveling to exciting places near and far, and living life how it’s truly meant to be lived. I knew Luxury Travel Hackers was the perfect idea at just the right time, ready to serve travel hungry folks like myself and give them a platform that is so easy to use, that you can’t help but get involved.

The Story Behind the Scenes

So how did I get here? Starting a mobile centric travel booking business during a pandemic probably isn’t for everyone, but it was something that needed to happen. I spent most of my career in film and TV production and after decades in the business I knew I wanted to pursue something fresh and something that captured other core interests. In my previous career I spent six months out of the year in intense production work and then 3-4 months of the year traveling to remote places.

Travel ironically kept me grounded. I loved meeting new people that had nothing to do with show business, and because of travel my life was changed forever and I wanted to share these experiences. I kept having conversations with my co-founder Katie Warner who was an owner of a boutique luxury travel agency, and the pieces really came together quickly for Luxury Travel Hackers.

In early 2021 I worked tirelessly with Katie and many other invaluable team members to create the first incarnation of Luxury Travel Hackers. I was fortunate to have early guidance from a mentor, Woodrow Zeigangel, and have that quickly followed up with support by Thomas B. Magnas of Centerfire Capital LLC. Mangas is the former CEO of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide and was responsible for their $13b acquisition by Marriott International in 2016. We were in good company, and I knew we were on to something very special.

Moving into the Future

Fast forward to December 2021. We are ended the year with a bang and launched an exciting equity raise campaign via StartEngine. Just as our core audience loves the mobile experience, many also enjoy crowdfunding, investing (any Bitcoin or NFT fans like me out there??) and StartEngine gives travel enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of the pie here at LTH.

I feel fortunate to understand and have a passion for travel while also having the opportunity to serve you, the reader, by creating a travel solution that could really change the world. The next time someone tells you to get off your phone, tell them you’re booking a trip to Bali via Instagram and that they are invited.

Gary Kohn

Gary Kohn has always had wanderlust, traveling to over 40 countries on 4 continents and every state in the US. He has 25+ years of experience in the film industry as a film and TV producer. His skill set consists of budgeting, scheduling, building teams and running all operations. Seeing every aspect from start to finish he prides himself on always being under budget and ahead of schedule. As a consultant, his ability to come into an existing operation, see where things are going wrong, adjust and pivot as needed to bring the most success to his clients has made his services widely sought after. In that world, he is nicknamed “The Fixer”. He’s sat on the board of Verge Media and advised as a specialist in content creation where he learned how the two can work together to maximize marketing and profit. Over the years he has worked with A-list producers, directors, and actors in the entertainment sector as well as top executives in various businesses and hedge funds.

www.luxurytravelhackers.com

The post How Luxury Travel Hackers Empowers The Social Mobile User appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.

Traveling for Wellness — Great Options for Wellness Travel in 2022

When it comes to wellness travel in 2022, are you looking for the perfect fit? Our partners at the Wellness Tourism Association (WTA) can provide advice on the best destinations for your next getaway.

The Wellness Tourism Association Q & A is a monthly feature that allows WTA members to share their personal best tips, tools and inspiration for wellness living and wellness travel. WTA Members have each met criteria for membership, which is the foundation of bringing standards to the industry as the demand for wellness travel continues to grow. We think you will benefit from their insider tips and advice.

WTA Member Red Mountain Resort

Located in St George, Utah, Red Mountain Resort has a unique relationship with the sacred land. Many of the rooms and villas offer views of the red mountains that give the resort its name. Whole body wellness and fitness programs are available daily, from healing sessions to curated menu items, workshops, retreat experiences, and opportunities for personal discovery. We had a conversation with General Manager Tracey Welsh, about health and wellness at the resort and how she incorporates wellness in her own life.

Talking with Tracey Welsh: General Manager, Red Mountain Resort

How long have you been with Red Mountain Resort and what do you do with this property?

2022 is my 21st year at Red Mountain, and my responsibilities include planning, marketing, and a little bit of everything else!

There are so many hotels, resorts, retreats and tour operators offering wellness programs and packages – tell us a bit about Red Mountain Resort and what is the main point(s) of distinction?

Red Mountain Resort is in the Greater Zion area of Utah, and beautiful Snow Canyon State Park is in our backyard.  We are a mecca for outdoor recreation, and our point of difference is inspiring wellness through adventures.

What pandemic-inspired policies and procedures has Red Mountain Resort implemented to keep travelers healthy and safe?

We do ask that guests and team members regardless of vaccination status wear masks when they are in close proximity for significant periods of time, such as spa treatments, transportation and private sessions.  We are servicing guest rooms on request only, and, of course, being extra diligent with regards to sanitation.

What does Red Mountain Resort offer that might attract a customer like the readers of LA Yoga?

Our resort is situation on 55 acres of beautiful red rock desert, lava fields and desert landscape, and when guests arrive, they tell us the stress suddenly melts away! We offer a variety of stay options, from a Stay and Play nightly rate which allows you to craft your own experience, or inclusive retreats offerings three healthy meals, fitness classes, wellness experiences and morning hikes or walks. We are pet friendly, and driveable from Los Angeles. During the winter and summer seasons we welcome families to stay and enjoy the resort and the Greater Zion Area.  During Spring and Fall, we currently limit the resort to guests over the age of 18.

How do you incorporate wellness into your own daily life?

A bit of yoga, plus I paint, and walk my dogs.

What are the top wellness trends you seeing at Red Mountain Resort?   We see the desire to be outdoors and learn more about the desert and our unique geology, experiencing wellness with the entire family, and seeking the wisdom and clarity found in having a spiritual advisor as three top wellness trends.

Do you feel technology is important as it pertains to wellness, and if yes, how and why?  If no, why not?

Absolutely!   I love that I can turn to You Tube in the morning and start with a yoga session, and while it doesn’t compare to the energy and guidance when in a room with others, it allows me to start the day with a great intention.  I can become completely entrenched in my work, and the reminders from my smart watch to stand and breath, are so helpful.  I think there is a balance to be achieved however, as I feel that much of what so many people are describing as anxiety and overwhelm, has been the result of lack of human connection.

Do you and, if yes, how do you incorporate the local community or culture into the programing at Red Mountain Resort?

A great number of our experiences happen in the outdoors – which is our local community!

What is your final note of advice for living your best life?

Humility. Kindness. And Love.

Check Out Red Mountain Resort

More on Red Mountain Resort: https://www.redmountainresort.com

Anne Dimon

Co-Founder and President /CEO of the Wellness Tourism Association, Anne Dimon has been a travel writer and industry journalist for close to 25 years, and has traveled the world as a columnist/contributor to a variety of publications. Anne is also Owner/ Editor of TravelToWellness.com launched in 2004 as the first online magazine/resource for the wellness-minded traveler. Prior to her life as a journalist, Anne was president of her own public relations company specializing in hospitality. She has also worked in the hotel industry as a director of public relations. An acknowledged wellness travel expert and industry consultant, Anne is also the co-author of The Travel Institute’s new Wellness Travel Specialist Course.

www.TravelToWellness.com

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Traveling for Wellness — Great Options for Wellness Travel in 2022

When it comes to wellness travel in 2022, are you looking for the perfect fit? Our partners at the Wellness Tourism Association (WTA) can provide the best destinations for your next getaway.

The Wellness Tourism Association Q & A is a new monthly feature that allows WTA members to share their personal best tips, tools and inspiration for wellness living and wellness travel. WTA Members have each met criteria for membership, which is the foundation of bringing standards to the industry as the demand for wellness travel continues to grow. We think you will benefit from their insider tips and advice.

Talking with Davina Bernard: Director of Wellness Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

How long have you been with Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, and what do you do with this property?

I have been with this resort [Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise] for over 11 years. I help curate wellness experiences for all of our guests. From multi-night retreats to little sips of wellness throughout a stay.

There are so many hotels, resorts, retreats and tour operators offering wellness programs and packages – tell us a bit about Fairmont Lake Louise and what is the main point(s) of distinction?

Our location on the shores of world-famous Lake Louise in the heart of Banff National Park and the Canadian Rocky Mountains is the ultimate place for wellness. Surrounded by towering peaks, glacier fed water and an old-growth forest, your body surrenders to nature and your nervous system calms down to allow for new wellness ideas to permeate into your body, mind and spirit.

What pandemic-inspired policies and procedures has Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise implemented to keep travelers healthy and safe?

We implement all of the regular policies that are required by the government: masks, vaccination proof, etc. We have found that bonds between participants can still be made and made very strong with a mask on during some portions of the retreat. People want to attend and connect and they are able to do this by wearing a mask when moving around.

What does Wellness Destination Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise offer that might attract a customer like the readers of LA Yoga?

A chance to check off two things from your bucket list:

1.Visit Lake Louise and enjoy all the mountains have to offer as well as learn from expert facilitators on a wide range of wellness topics.

2. A stay in the luxury of Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise allows you to experience all of the comforts of an acclaimed brand while also working on ways to live your best life when you return home.

How do you incorporate wellness into your own daily life?

Over the years, I’ve slowly added more aspects of balance to my life and it has brought me so much peace and happiness. Meditation, nutrition, movement and sleep are key foundations in my days. My practice of conscious awareness of my thoughts and the world around me has strengthend my connections to friends and life in general. I love my life!

What are the top wellness trends you seeing at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise?

It isn’t simply yoga retreats anymore, our guests are looking for the discussions around mindfulness, connection to themselves and inner healing. Our guests are looking for the real-life tools that will help them live their best lives. We offer a wide range of facilitators to appeal to a wide range of guests.

Do you feel technology is important as it pertains to wellness, and if yes, how and why? If no, why not?

If we don’t embrace technology in the wellness community, we will be left behind as someone else will. Technology is a powerful tool when used consciously and there are definite benefits to using advancements to help guide our self-discovery.

Do you and, if yes, how do you incorporate the local community or culture into the programing at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise?

At Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, our community is our landscape. It is the reason our resort exists and it is the biggest reason people visit us. Every retreat encorporates enough free time for guests to explore outside, either on their own or with one of our guides. We also offer ‘do-it-yourself’ guided mindfulness hike/snowshoe cards so guests can wander at their own pace and discover how their body reacts to our natural landscape. Plus, as one of the largest businesses and employers, we support numerous initiatives in our local community throughout the year.

What is your final note of advice for living your best life?

My advice to everyone is to go outside for a few minutes every day that doesn’t involve rushing to a car or a store or to work. Notice a tree and thank it for the oxygen it is giving you, notice a cloud and thank it for the shade and the rain. Nature and gratitude go hand-in-hand and connect us to the planet and to each other. When we are connected to something greater than ourselves, we appreciate life a little bit more and that helps me live my best life.

Anne Dimon

Co-Founder and President /CEO of the Wellness Tourism Association, Anne Dimon has been a travel writer and industry journalist for close to 25 years, and has traveled the world as a columnist/contributor to a variety of publications. Anne is also Owner/ Editor of TravelToWellness.com launched in 2004 as the first online magazine/resource for the wellness-minded traveler. Prior to her life as a journalist, Anne was president of her own public relations company specializing in hospitality. She has also worked in the hotel industry as a director of public relations. An acknowledged wellness travel expert and industry consultant, Anne is also the co-author of The Travel Institute’s new Wellness Travel Specialist Course.

www.TravelToWellness.com

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The Value of Wellness Travel

If there is just one good thing that has come out of the pandemic, it’s that more of us have come to realize the true value of good health. There are those who are already healthy, and want to stay that way. There are others who feel they could be just a little bit healthier, and want to work on it. Then, there are those who want a total lifestyle reboot and are looking for some wellness travel, often, that might call for a Wellness Retreat or a Wellness Vacation.

Now, you may be thinking, so what’s the difference between a Wellness Retreat and a Wellness Vacation? Good question! The terms have been thrown about loosely for years now, and that’s why the Wellness Tourism Association created the industry’s first glossary of definitions.

Wellness Vacation/Holiday

Wellness Vacation / Holiday is Wellness Travel powered by a wellness-focused intention. These Wellness Vacations and/or Holidays are typically self-directed with the traveler setting his or her own timetable and schedule. They may also include a Wellness Retreat.

Wellness Retreats

In today’s world, Wellness Retreat has TWO definitions but what we are referring to right now is this one direct for the WTA Glossary: “A Wellness Retreat is a guided, intention-driven, multi-day program with a set or semi-set schedule, and hosted by one or more facilitators. The program may include learning and lifestyle workshops such as meditation and healthy eating, as well as fitness activities such as yoga, nature walks, and hiking.” Many of you reading this may, in fact, be leading such retreats.

The second definition of a Wellness Retreat is this: A smaller facility with accommodations and hospitality services and where the primary purpose is to provide programs and experiences for the Wellness Traveler.

With the number of wellness travel options continuing to grow, how does one go about finding the right fit? Here are six tips to help set you on the right path.

Finding your Path to Wellness Travel

1. Determine your goal or objective.

What is the intention of the trip? What would you like to accomplish by taking a wellness vacation or wellness retreat? It could be anything from weight loss, taking solo time for self-reflection, to reset a fitness routine, learn to quell anxieties and manage stress, discovering how to plan and cook healthier meals, or simply taking time out to delve deeper into your yoga practices.

2. Ask yourself if you prefer a structured program (as in a hosted retreat) or more of a self-directed vacation itinerary?

Depending on your goal, you may want, even need, a program with a strict focus. On the other hand, if your intention is simple to find a quiet place to relax, rejuvenate and reenergize, perhaps you need less of a structured program and simply the right environment plus fit-focused optional activities to allow you to manage your own day-to-day itinerary.

3. Consider what type of environment and accommodation is most conducive for you to relax and de-stress.

Keeping your budget in mind, does a country inn or lodge embraced by the peace and quiet of a mountain setting or the sounds of ocean waves lulling you to sleep each night, sound appealing? Or would simply relaxing in a luxury city hotel with a full-service spa, regular fitness classes, healthy food options and access to local cultural attractions help you meet your goal?

4. Make sure the property (be it a hotel, resort, retreat, inn etc.) you are considering caters to your food preference.

Food is one of the pillars of wellness living, so food options are always important but especially so if the goal is to lose weight or to develop healthier cooking and eating habits. Farm-to-table, local, whole food is certainly one way to go, plus there are a growing list of food preferences including vegan, vegetarian, gluten free and others, so make certain that any inhouse restaurants – particularly if food is included in the program – will cater to your individual food preferences.

5. Do you want access to medical testing and a range of medical wellness professionals?

If the answer is “yes,” then your list of “right fit” retreat options will be confined to those facilities that offer such options. Two examples of hospitality facilities with those medical options are Pritikin  in Doral, Florida and Waldhotel in Lucern, Switzerland.

6. Ask yourself what is the ONE thing your Wellness Vacation or Wellness retreat MUST include.

This can be pretty much anything from simple peace and quiet, to daily yoga classes, to guided fitness activities, to water-based activities, cooking classes, access to medical and wellness practitioners, close to local cultural attractions. The list goes on. You decide what is most important for YOU.

Wellness Travel as a Path to Well-Being

The above six tips will help you find the right Wellness Retreat or plan a Wellness Vacation that suits your specific goal(s) and interest(s). They will allow you to return home with a feeling of accomplishment and a renewed sense of well-being. If you need help planning there are now many wellness travel advisor specialists who can assist you. Here’s a list to help get you started: http://www.traveltowellness.com/wellness-travel-agent-specialists/

With the pursuit of good health as the new priority in our lives, it is good to know that there are so many options available across all budget and catering to an increasing number of special interests. Check out the Wellness Tourism Association’s online Directory of Members for more inspiration.

Anne Dimon

Co-Founder and President /CEO of the Wellness Tourism Association, Anne Dimon has been a travel writer and industry journalist for close to 25 years, and has traveled the world as a columnist/contributor to a variety of publications. Anne is also Owner/ Editor of TravelToWellness.com launched in 2004 as the first online magazine/resource for the wellness-minded traveler. Prior to her life as a journalist, Anne was president of her own public relations company specializing in hospitality. She has also worked in the hotel industry as a director of public relations. An acknowledged wellness travel expert and industry consultant, Anne is also the co-author of The Travel Institute’s new Wellness Travel Specialist Course.

www.TravelToWellness.com

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The World is Opening! We’re Looking for Solutions for Planning Vacations

With what seemed to be a blink of an eye, much of the country shifted back into a state of “Normal.” Let’s be real though, normal is boring and us yogis with a case of wanderlust are itching to get on a plane or inside an Airstream to get on some wild adventures. Whether that be hiking through beautiful scenic areas, or taking it easy along the California coast, we’re all ready to get out of the “at home office” and hit that OOO setting on the email. With the travel floodgates about to open, we may wonder what this industry will look like now and how we can find solutions for planning vacations.

One thing is certain, our society thrives on technology that puts the power in the palm of our hands and removes obstacles to securing what we want. That can be a burrito bowl from that one place we all love, hailing a Lyft to safely get to a friend’s house, or even buying a new car. We can now do all this online in the amount of time it takes to check our social media in the morning. When it comes to travel, I was thinking about how we plan trips and take the guesswork out of organizing logistics and ensuring all the fine details are handled without issue. That can be overwhelming! Most travel websites simply allow you to book flights, hotels, and car rentals but the bulk of the work still rests on us. If this isn’t a well-deserved staycation, I’m probably looking to carve out a whole afternoon to plan out, make calls, click around and hopefully figure out a game plan that doesn’t make me want a vacation…from planning a vacation.

Luxury Travel Hackers Offers Inspiration and Solutions

I recently spoke with Gary Kohn, co-founder of Luxury Travel Hackers, who was the inspiration for this article. We spoke about the travel industry, influencers and what the future holds for all generations who are excited about vacation planning. Obviously, most of us aren’t using traditional travel bookers, those types tucked away in “Better Call Saul” style shopping centers, and from my personal experience as a millennial it’s been frustrating trying to book entire vacations with a busy work and family routine. His company has created a unique solution, which he simply describes as “making vacations bookable via social media from custom content.” If my generation is looking for travel ideas on social media, I can only imagine that younger generations are strictly relying on the suggestion of social channels, influential blogs, and of course top tier travel influencers who have actually taken these dream vacations.

How we Choose Destinations

Gary dropped a ton of insight on my lap. He said, “We’ve seen the average traveler shift into booking all travel via the web over the past 10-15 years. Younger social media users are unsure where to go next, so they jump on Instagram and Facebook to get inspiration and ideas.” Just as social media users use the platform to decide what to eat, buy or even drive, there is a revolution coming in travel where influencers will overtake traditional marketing and advertising to dictate where the best places to visit and explore rest. We have seen this with popular exotic locations like Ibiza, Bora Bora, the Caribbean and even close to home destinations around the US and coastal states. Even more popular US destinations geared towards spiritual/nature enthusiasts like Sedona have become even more popular thanks to the power of social media, influencers, and our immediate network of friends. In time, they begin to attract the novice traveler who is just looking for suggestions on where to go.

What I enjoy about Luxury Travel Hackers is that they send influencers on specific trips, produce amazing travel content, and make the adventures available on Facebook and Instagram for us to view like regular social media users. I can then click on that content to jump one step into booking that trip and letting the company do all the work for me. This is what the future is all about, removing steps, suggesting travel destinations and doing it in a way that is in service to the user instead of taking on the format of old school banner advertising and TV commercials. Last time I watched Netflix, I sure wasn’t seeing any commercials for Hawaii getaways or Euro vacations on a cruise ship.

From Inspiration to Action for Vacations

“Most of the US will continue to book their vacations via Expedia and their favorite airline’s website. What I see shifting in behavior is how users prefer to get their ideas for travel and what will provoke taking action to plan that trip,” Gary tells me while trying to stay realistic about the state of the industry. I agree that after the wild year that was 2020, people are excited to travel again. We are all looking for inspiration and platforms to support making traveling easy, fun, and safe. As I ease into exploring my next getaway, I realize that where I choose to travel is indeed coming off the influence of social media and those I choose to surround myself with. Now I have to just choose where to go next!

Bob Bradley

Bob Bradley has spent the past 14 years as a public relations and marketing professional, telling the stories of hundreds of clients in multiple industries. He has owned and has been aligned with multiple growth phase startups, in addition to working for established brands and agencies. Bob is also a musician and writer, recently releasing his first book Public Relations For Musicians and announced his follow-up book Public Relations For Small Businesses for a Summer 21′ release.

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Dome Stroll in Yosemite. Photo by Patrick Bremser

Being a Good Steward of Nature

How do we balance spending time in nature for personal wellness and simultaneously steward and support the places we visit? We do this by bringing mindfulness to our practices of visiting wild places.

For many, March, 2021 marks the one year anniversary of shut-downs, home isolation, and a new online Zoom culture associated with the Covid-19 global pandemic. We have collectively spent a LOT of time indoors in the past 12 months. As the long-term effects of the pandemic continue, people are eager to get outside, enjoy nature, move their bodies and breathe clean air in beautiful places. There is also an increase in the number of people seeking out mindfulness practices to help manage daily stresses, pandemic-related pressures, and a myriad of new challenges.

Balanced Rock and Responsibly Visiting Wild Places

For over 20 years, I have worked for Balanced Rock, a nonprofit organization in Yosemite National Park with a mission of inspiring health and well-being through deep connection to nature and spirit. The core of Balanced Rock is to use both time in nature and mindfulness practices to foster physical and mental health, wellness, healing and resiliency. At Balanced Rock, we feel education in how to responsibly visit wild places is a critical piece to keeping outdoor spaces healthy and to allow for future use by many generations.

Throughout the pandemic, groups and individuals have sought out Balanced Rock for classes or guidance to relieve stress caused by the feelings of isolation during shelter in place mandates. Offerings have included outdoor and online yoga and meditation classes, custom guided outdoor experiences for individuals and small (Covid recommendation-sized) groups, suicide awareness discussions, community forums for physical and mental health, a robust Community Wellness Program, and an eight-month, online, 200-hr Yoga Teacher Training.

“Balanced Rock has been a grounding tether for me during the pandemic. Thank you for offering online wellness classes!
-2020 Community Wellness program participant

“I can’t tell you how incredible it is to be out here in this beauty…. To be talking with someone other than my pod-mate. This feels SO healing and so simple yet profound given this past year. Spending time in nature is true medicine.”
-2020 custom hike participant (When BR was able to safely start guiding small groups in Fall 2020.)

Balanced Rock diligently balances bringing individuals and groups into wild settings with the responsibility to “do no harm” and be respectful of the natural world.

Taking in the View. Photo by Fred Pompemeyer

The Dangers of Overuse of Wild Places

In Yosemite, we have seen first-hand what a place looks like before and after a big weekend or event in a popular tourist destination. Examples of overuse can include the following. Bags of trash left behind, dirty diapers in sacred creeks, accidentally dropped masks or other clothing items dotting the ground like leaf litter. Too many cars causing some to park in eco-sensitive areas or idle while sitting in traffic jams. At times, new trails get formed by people walking in the same place through sensitive areas like meadows, wetlands, or high elevation vegetation while trying to take a photo, get a view, or relieve themselves leaving used toilet paper behind (Yuk!).

With a little local education and a mindfulness practice of paying attention, many of these examples of mis-treating a space can be remedied. So what does it mean to visit a place mindfully? One definition of mindfulness is: To be mindful of something simply means to bring awareness and attention to it. If we can bring more awareness to our behavior and actions in wild places, and share this with others, we can better take care of the places that take care of us!

Mindful and Respectful Ways to Spend Time in Nature:

1. Research and follow the Leave No Trace suggestions for the area you intend to visit.
2. Try and visit really popular areas during off times or off hours. Avoid peak seasons and peak times.
3. Resist the temptation to reveal a little-known or little-used place on social media. This may be one of the biggest changes I’ve seen in visitor use in my relatively short time on this planet. One Instagram post can literally change the nature of a place forever. Consider the tags used and the intention of the post.
4. Keep yourself safe to avoid injury or getting lost so you don’t burden an already stressed First Responder system.
5. Consider the visual and audio impact a group or individual can have on a place.
6. Consider hiring a local guide to become educated of the local cultural norms and etiquette, and learn ways to appropriately and safely travel in a region.

Questions for Reflecting on Relationships with the Earth

As we emerge back into the world to receive the great health benefits and abundance of wild places on this earth, let’s encourage one another to pause and reflect on the places we go to seek solace and take time to ask questions with mindfulness, awareness and love.

• What are ways my being here could harm this place?
• Am I treading lightly on the land?
• Am I knowingly or possibly unknowingly harming any creatures, plants, soils, insects, humans?

Taking time to question, plan, prepare and reflect is mindfulness in action and can really make a difference to the health and well-being of the places we love and ultimately to ourselves. If we view our time in nature as a reciprocal relationship, we receive the health benefits that nature affords and in turn we are treating the earth in a way that allows future generations to be able to experience these same benefits. Visiting wild places with mindfulness has an impact that lasts far more than the moment we spend in a place.

Heather Sullivan

Heather Sullivan is the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Balanced Rock Foundation, located in Yosemite National Park, a world-heritage site.  Heather has been leading yoga and mindfulness classes for adults and children as well as wilderness expeditions for over 25 years. To see the expanded wellness opportunities that she and Balanced Rock have been offering during the pandemic, both online and in wild places, visit:  www.balancedrock.org or follow @balancedrockorg.

www.balancedrock.org

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Ghost Ranch Casa de Sol photo by Jamie Clifford.

The Art of Asana in Abiquiu’s Ghost Ranch

My partner Jeff and I were mapping out a road trip back west after Christmas, and he noticed that Ghost Ranch, the one-time desert refuge of painter Georgia O’Keeffe, lay directly on our route. Jeff studies famous women’s lives through the lens of astrology on his podcast, Cosmic Cousins, and listeners had unanimously crowned O’Keeffe “Queen of Scorpio.” To us, Ghost Ranch was the physical representation of a woman who lived life utterly on her own terms. Her art transformed inexpressible truths into beautiful forms. We called ahead to ask if rooms were available on New Year’s Eve; they were. What better way to close out the year than isolated in the raw landscapes that inspired her paintings?

Early on December 31, we left Denver, leaving lots of time to get to Abiquiu, the remote locale north of Santa Fe, which in the Tewa language means “wild chokecherry place.” Typically, this drive takes around six hours. But in the middle of winter, depending on whether or not the Rocky Mountain gods are smiling on you, that time is subject to change. Spoiler alert: the gods were not in a happy mood.

Around Colorado Springs, our car began to swerve on the I-25. The road, coated in a thin layer of swirling snow, was practically invisible. All around us we saw more snow blowing down. Any vehicle moving faster than 15 mph begged to go skidding off into the median strip, or worse. We had another 300 miles to go, and the blizzard was just getting started.

Our first reaction was to change our plans. Frantically, we mapped nearby hotels and B&Bs, surrendering to the idea of spending New Year’s Eve in a Holiday Inn in Walsenburg, Colorado.

Then, the roads cleared. The weather seemed to be taunting us. Long stretches would go by with dry tarmac and blue skies and yet all the reports called for a winter storm warning. On the Doppler satellite, a giant swirling blue vortex hovered over central New Mexico. Its trajectory? Straight for Ghost Ranch.

Ghost Ranch Palomino Pavilion Yurt photo by Amy Hulse.

How much do you want to visit this holy ground?

Now, we’re not the kind of travelers who are likely to give up easily. Nor, I imagine, was Georgia O’Keeffe. (“I’ve never let fear keep me from doing a single thing I wanted,” she once said.) Yet it did feel in some way that we were being tested. As if O’Keeffe herself were communicating through the skies. “You want to visit my holy ground? How badly do you want to see it?” she seemed to say. And the answer was: badly.

For weeks, we had built up a glorious vision of ringing in 2019 in the charmed canyon-scape that generated masterpieces like Ram’s Head White Hollyhock and Little Hills. O’Keeffe once boasted of this land, “It belongs to me. God told me if I painted it enough, I could have it.” For its stark beauty, for the extreme mystery of it, we were drawn to the place.

In the car, I inquired about the weather down in Abiquiu with the receptionist at Ghost Ranch. “Look,” he said, “People are leaving work early, they’re saying we might get hit. But we can hold your room. If you make it, your key will be waiting for you in an envelope across from the front desk with your name and room number on it.” I called back to let him know we might need to cancel. Then I called to cancel. Then, the weather improved again so I called to un-cancel.

On tenterhooks, we drove on to Santa Fe where the storm was still in its early stages. In the car, we sipped blood-red hibiscus tea and stared out at the gray scene tensely. Overcast skies, temps in the low 20s, snow falling on adobe. The whole thing would have been romantic, if we weren’t so helpless.

But we drew closer, and the resolution became clear. We had come this far, there was no plan B. We would make it. We followed route 84 north, up through blustery Tesuque, Española, and finally into Abiquiu. Then, as we rounded into red canyon country, as if on cue, the snow stopped.

The surrounding cliffs showed a light dusting of snow. We could feel the altitude’s calming effect (Abiquiu sits 6,080’ above sea level). At the entrance to Ghost Ranch, a sign with O’Keefe’s signature cow skull hung from a wooden post. The test was over. Access granted.

Ghost Ranch Casa del Sol photo by Jamie Clifford.

Happy Old Year

Since the 1950s, Ghost Ranch has been owned and operated by the Presbyterian church. More than 300 lectures, workshops, and yes, even weddings, take place each year. But in a former life, this was a wild, volatile place. A band of cattle rustlers hijacked the area in the late 1800s, hoarding stolen livestock and murdering whoever got in their way. Locals stayed as far away as possible, believing that the valley was cursed. They called it Rancho de los Brujos, a reference to the howling winds they heard at night, which they perceived to be the lingering screams of the outlaws’ victims.

An air of foreboding still prevails. Particularly in winter, when the ranch feels desolate, muted. “Happy Old Year,” a ghostly figure greeted us from behind a ski mask, as she drifted past us in the dark.

None of the rooms at Ghost Ranch have telephones or TVs, and there are infinite opportunities for long, solitary strolls among the mesas. Many show up for weeks at a time, to paint, to meditate, to heal. It is the kind of place where you can come with great intentions, or none at all.

Ghost Ranch Tombe Room photo by Jamie Clifford.

Our room was tucked into a frozen courtyard with three sycamore trees. Beyond that was the grand Agape worship hall, the Georgia O’Keeffe library, an arts center, and a museum. Whenever we opened our casita door, all was quiet. The ranch spans a total of 21,000 acres—a former dude ranch sprinkled with the fossils of Archosaurs (ancient crocodiles) that date back 250 million years.

After the tense eight-hour drive, I was in sore need of yoga. A staff member tipped me off to a children’s playroom within walking distance from our room where I could practice asana. Like everywhere else at Ghost Ranch on New Year’s Eve, the room was deserted. Toys were neatly put away, and the gray carpet was spotless. I let myself in, slipped off my boots, and began tuning into my breath.

As I stretched out on the gray carpet—no mat needed—I could feel my muscles, still tense from the long car ride, begin to loosen. None of the comforts of a traditional yoga class were here: but I didn’t need them. The sequence? I made it up. Props? My body was enough. Music? Silence was better. Over the course of nearly two hours, blissfully stretching, curving, folding and twisting my body, I heard the silence give way to something mystical and alive. Amplified by winter’s stillness, fine pulsations rocked the air. The very earth seemed to offer up an ancient rhythm, and if I got quiet enough, I could hear it. I closed my eyes and lay on the floor, entranced. Worry free. Expansive.

Ghost Ranch Casa del Sol Labyrinth photo by Amy Hulse.

Death, Life, and the New Year

I felt like a new person by the time dinner rolled around. There were beef fajitas with guacamole, salad and oven-warm brownies. No party blowers, no novelty sunglasses, no Times Square countdown. (Though we did have a bottle of champagne chilling back in our room.) In the low-key dining room, a few small groups sat talking. Painted red chile peppers adorned the walls, a nod to the state’s emblematic fruit. Joni Mitchell crooned ‘Amelia’ from a radio in the kitchen.

Back in our casita, we did what any sane person does on New Year’s Eve at Ghost Ranch: we discussed the meaning of Death. Jeff pointed out that O’Keeffe was misunderstood. She never viewed the cow skulls as symbols of death. In fact, she enjoyed their “lively” shapes, and made a point to celebrate them for their own sake. In the tarot, Death portrays a moment of transformation, not an ending but a beginning. Violence and suffering once characterized this land—now, it has been made into a place of universal healing. After disaster, life goes on.

In the morning, we stepped out to glistening icicles lining the roof of our casita, which dripped in the warming sun. Even in the dead of winter, the ranch felt unmistakably alive.

For more information about visiting Ghost Ranch, any time of the year, visit: ghostranch.org.

Alex Schechter

The post Coming Back to Life at O’Keeffe’s Ghost Ranch appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.

Become a road warrior who is a force for good.

What if you could take a vacation and know that your travel dollars are creating a positive community and environmental impact in the destination you are visiting?

After all, the love of travel can’t be separated from the state of the world. Travelers have enormous power (think about the 1.4 billion trips taken last year alone) to make a positive (or negative) impact. By voting with our dollars to support sustainable travel that makes a positive difference, we can change the world for the better.

Research shares that 72% of travelers think it’s important that their travel dollars positively impact the destinations they visit (Good Travels Study by Tourism Cares). But of those who want to travel sustainably, a third find it confusing and half don’t know how (Impact Travel Alliance 2018 Study). Yet when you give back – whether in the form of a donation or volunteering, science shows in the biology of kindness that endorphins are released, causing you to feel healthier and happier. This is the perfect combination for the traveler looking to have a happier, healthier, and more memorable vacation experience.

Discover some eco-luxe getaways and destinations that will inspire you to become a force for good on your next trip.

SONOMA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA

Sonoma County has long been a leader in the way of eco-consciousness, environmental protection, and sustainability. Author Jack London made Sonoma Valley his home later in life. He pioneered many of the principles that form the foundation of organic farming today. His ranch and home are protected as the Jack London (California) State Historic Park.

Famed horticulturist—and Sonoma County resident—Luther Burbank made it his life’s work to increase the world’s food supply by manipulating the characteristics of plants. He introduced 800 new plants and more than 100 varieties of plumes and prunes. In 1875, Burbank wrote, “I firmly believe, from what I have seen, that this is the chosen spot of  all this earth as far as Nature is concerned.” The words still ring true today.

Where To Stay: Farmhouse Inn

Farmhouse Inn embodies all that make Sonoma County so special. Owned by a brother and sister duo that are fifth-generation farmers, they grow and source locally 100% of the food served at the Farmhouse Inn’s Michelin-starred restaurant while also bringing a Sonoma-inspired farmhouse experience to their spa by delivering a not-to-be-missed farm-to-table spa menu.

Do More Than Travel: Redwood Empire Food Bank (REFB)
Kind Traveler offers exclusive rates and perks at this eco-luxe beauty when you give a $10 nightly donation to Redwood Empire Food Bank, helping to end food poverty locally in Sonoma County. A $10 donation will provide 20 nutritious meals to individuals in need.

Do Good for the Day: Beyond giving a donation, REFB encourages you to donate non-perishable food items during your stay or take a couple hours out of your trip to volunteer. You can sign up for a volunteer shift at: refb.org/volunteer-opportunities.

LAS CATALINAS, COSTA RICA

Las Catalinas is a new walkable beach town that is car-free and built with sustainability as the main priority on the Guanacaste Coast of Costa Rica. Its entire purpose is to create a way of life that is healthy, sustainable, fulfilling and fun.

Not so long ago, Las Catalinas was all pasture land. But with the sustainable development plans in play, they are restoring the land to its original state – a tropical dry forest. To protect it, they are actively planting native trees, prohibit hunting, and are building “sustainable trails” that are resistant to erosion (to name a few!).

Where To Stay: Santarena Hotel

Paying homage to the old mansions of cities like Havana and Cartagena, this bohemian pearl offers authentic coastal relaxation. Picture a stunning rooftop terrace pool, sustainable wood floors, locally sourced amenities, sweeping ocean views and shaded areas perfect for meditation and yoga. Oh, it doesn’t stop there. You’re mere steps away from 40+ kilometers of hiking and biking trails and postcard-worthy Playa Danta, where paddle boarding, swimming, kayaking and snorkeling are on the daily menu.

Do More Than Travel: Abriendo Mentes
Kind Traveler offers exclusive rates and perks when you give a $10 nightly donation to Abriendo Mentes, helping to empower individuals through education from rural and underserved communities in Guanacaste.  A $10 donation will provide school supplies for one child.

Do Good for the Day: Beyond giving a donation, Abriendo Mentes encourages travelers to consider offering assistance in teaching English classes held every Thursday. You could also offer to assist with sports and recreational activities on Fun Fridays.

SAN IGNACIO CAYO DISTRICT, BELIZE

In 2018, Ethical Traveler deemed Belize as one of the world’s 10 best ethical destinations to visit. They review the policies and practices of hundreds of developing nations and select 10 that are doing the most impressive job of promoting human rights, preserving the environment, and supporting social and animal welfare – all while creating a community-based tourism industry.

Where To Stay: Ka’ana Luxury Resort

Located deep within the tropical jungle of Western Belize, Ka’ana is the ultimate nature lover’s retreat in Central America, nestled on the edge of an ancient Maya city and with easy access to Maya archeological sites and national parks. Lose yourself in this jungle paradise where on any given day you can include unwinding at the spa, resetting on the yoga deck, soaking in the pool, and strolling the two-acre organic garden.

Do More Than Travel: Cayo Animal Welfare Society (CAWS) – The Humane Society of Cayo
Kind Traveler offers exclusive rates and perks when you give a $10 nightly donation to CAWS, helping to improve the lives of homeless dogs and cats in Belize while also helping with education efforts that inspire animal kindness. A $10 donation will feed one dog (or two cats) for a month.

Do Good for the Day: Beyond giving a donation, CAWS encourages travelers to pack powdered puppy and kitten milk and flea and tick medication when you visit.

Jessica Blotter

Jessica Blotter is the CEO and Founder of Kind Traveler. These destinations are available in collaboration with Kind Traveler, the world’s first socially conscious hotel booking and sustainable travel education platform is making it easy for travelers to create a positive local impact when they travel. Travelers access exclusive rates and perks when they give a $10 nightly donation to a designated top-rated charity that positively impacts the destination visited. Traveling kindly ensures a sustainable future for generations to come and advances the wellbeing of local communities, the environment, and animals. For more inspiration, visit KindTraveler.com.

www.kindtraveler.com

The post Why Choose Sustainable Travel appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.

Joe K and Parashakti. Photo by Vanessa Viola.

Power Places offer us Space for Transition

Wherever we are, at any given moment, is a place of transition. Every millisecond, every nanosecond, an infinitude of infinitesimal, seemingly undetectable changes are occurring in our body minds and in the air and earth around us. To be alive is to be on a journey between the ever-disappearing past and the still-not-arrived-at future.  To be alive is to be moving, changing. And to be alive is to dance.

As we exist in a state of change, we can embrace the idea that a state of transition is no less relevant, important or “good” than the state of arrival. Sacredness also exists in the in-between. If we open our eyes, our ears, our hearts, psyches, and souls, we free ourselves to experience wherever we are as “a certain place.” We are free to experience a power place where the holy and the human are dancing together.  To paraphrase the visionary poet William Blake, “If the doors of perception were cleansed, everything would appear as it really is, infinite.”

Opening the Doors of Perception

That said – when your spirit-vision is muddied, when the “doors of perception” have gotten glued shut, when you find yourself thwarted in your Dance, how do you begin moving again? How do you return to the vibrant state in which we are meant to dwell?
One of the ways, as people from many different cultures around the world have believed since ancient times, is to go on a pilgrimage, to go to those “certain places” on our planet. These “certain places” or power places seem to have a potent magnetic field, a high vibration, a powerful mana, that helps to free us from the limitations of ordinary perception. In the process, these places can awaken us to radiant vision, awaken our bodies to the Dance.

Anthropologist Martin Gray describes the Hindu concept of tirtha, a Vedic word that originally meant “river ford, steps to a river, or place of pilgrimage.”  Tirtha evolved to mean more than physical locations.  Devout Hindus, says Gray, “believe them to be…the meeting place of heaven and earth.”

Find A Power Place on the Planet

The most intense of these power places are sometimes called “Earth’s Chakras.” These are sacred energetic vortexes like Australia’s Uluru, the Great Pyramids of Giza, Machu Picchu, Mt. Shasta, or the giant redwood groves of California. Power places foster a higher sense of connection with all life.

The California Redwoods

Among the California redwoods, the towering trees offer incredible examples of beauty, strength, wisdom, and resilience. Some of the trees have been growing for thousands of years. Predating much of the world of human society – the world as we know it. The redwoods have roots that can extend a hundred feet wide, which both help them withstand raging floods and powerful winds, and also literally feed the other trees around them. Their bark is built to withstand fires that obliterate everything else. They teach us to live where we are, to make the most of what we have and the conditions we face, to be generous, and to be magnificent.

As Thich Nhat Hanh reminds us, any tree can be a power place, as it contains the cosmos. It is the sunlight, the rain, the earth. It is all of these, and their coming together, that forms the tree. You can use the following meditation to connect to this energy of rootedness, strength, and growth.

Tree Meditation

Find a tree – and if one is not accessible to you, bring one to your mind’s eye.

Find your center with mountain pose/tadasana – planting your feet solidly beneath you, distributing your weight evenly between all four corners of each foot.

Notice the roots of the tree – how it holds onto the earth and how the earth holds onto it. Let your feet be your roots, both pushing down on the earth and pulling up the energy beneath you.

As the tree pulls up nutrients from the soil, allow the energy from your feet to travel upwards, elongating the spine, and lifting up through the crown of the head.

Notice the shape of the tree, its bark, its branches, its various textures. Observe the complexity of the tree, its solidity, its connections. Offer the tree gratitude, and then allow it to inspire internal questions. How can you feel more solid in your life? What area feels like it needs to be more planted?

The tree is rooted, deeply connected, to the earth – where are you feeling connected?

As the tree draws up energy through the roots – what is uplifting you? What causes your branches to expand and grow?

The tree provides shade to beings, homes for insects and animals, branches for bird nests. In what ways are you, or can you, show up in service of your fellow beings? How can your heart be uplifted in service?

The tree’s leaves draw in the sunlight – how do you draw in sunlight, joy, and radiance into your inner child?

Parashakti photo by Yair Golov.

Vision Quest in a Power Place

Spend a magically powerful weekend with Dance of Liberation™ founder Parashakti and master yoga instructor Joe K. Enjoy a soul-opening blend of yoga, dance, and shamanic exploration.

Dance of Liberation is based on a series of shamanic practices known as the Seven Foundations. The practice helps you shed inhibitions, heighten inner awareness, and awaken joy. This powerful soul work—blended with a unique and accessible twice daily yoga practice—is designed to ignite kindness, radiance, health, and a deep sense of renewal. At the retreat, you will experience the following.

Ride illuminating and metaphorical waves of energy while activating your flow state.
Integrate mindfulness, pranayama (breath), and yoga asanas (postures) with the deeply communal and powerfully individual experience of deliverance known as Dance of Liberation

Take advantage of one-on-one time in a power place with both Parashakti and Joe Komar. This is available throughout the retreat.

Discover the fiery lights of your most authentic self through the healing art of yoga and the freedom of dance. Return home connected with the vastness of your spiritual potential. Live a life of joy, vitality, and purpose.

Parashakti

Parashakti’s shamanic healing work is born of more than two decades of experience facilitating workshops, trainings, and retreats around the world, in Los Angeles, New York, Mexico, Bali, Guatemala, Indonesia, Israel, and Greece.  As a lifelong dancer, her path as a healer followed a severe injury – a period of what is often called shamanic dismantling, after which her mission shifted towards healing. Over the last 20 years, Parashakti has developed the Seven Foundations and the Dance of Liberation™, as maps for her spiritual practice, living and breathing these foundations in daily ritual. Dance of Liberation™ has been practiced by over 10,000 dancers around the globe. It’s was born of a mission to help people experience ecstasy – without taking it.
Above all, Parashakti is dedicated to serving community and creating a sacred container where people feel safe enough to experience their deepest essences, honor their voices, and shine their brightest light. Join her on the Dance floor: www.parashakti.org

parashakti.org/

The post The Importance of Connecting with a Power Place appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.

Photo by Chris Burkard

A Mindful Trek on a Glacier

Did you think taking a cruise was a cool way to see Alaska? On a glacier trek 10 miles from Mount Denali, you’ll conquer a part of Alaska few humans have seen.

A tanned, bearded snow guide named Nikolai is 50 feet ahead of me hauling a blue plastic sled laden with food. As the intrepid leader of our pack—and the man responsible for lunch—he’s definitely someone worth paying attention to, although something else is stealing my focus.

Directly ahead, a bare 800-foot-tall stump of rock known as the Gargoyle rises up like an arrowhead through the snow. Plunging granite cliffs form a wide circle around us. Although how close they are is hard to judge. Up in the lofty reaches of Denali National Park, distances are deceiving. Somehow, no matter how far we walk, nothing seems to get any closer.

Hiking on a Glacier

The Alaskan glacier we’re standing on is named Ruth. Ruth is a vast, blindingly white boulevard of compacted snow and ice, 40 miles long and over 5,000 feet thick. If you were to dig straight down, you’d eventually reach a canyon older than the glacier itself.

When you’re hiking a glacier, they tell you not to ‘be a jerk’. This advice is more practical than a personality trait. Strapped into a harness, with ropes linking you to the person in front and behind, each movement affects everyone else. If I walk too fast, I’ll jerk the person behind me. If I slow down, I’ll jerk the person in front. So, in single file, like a sluggish army of ants, our group falls into an easy rhythm—each step synchronized, one foot in front of the other, as we crunch down the snow.

Because of the collaborative nature of the hike, everyone is respectful and attentive. When one person moves, everyone moves. When someone stops, we all stop. The two most important words when you’re on a glacier are: Zero (‘stop’) and Clear (‘go’). That’s what you utter when you need to stop to take a picture, or your rope gets tangled, or you need to blow your nose. Whatever happens, you’re all in it together.

My eyes, when they’re not on the Gargoyle, follow the rope as it slithers through the snow, attaching me to a train of four hikers, including Nikolai. World-class climbers have passed through this glacier, on their way to Denali, the jewel of southeast Alaska, and North America’s tallest peak at 20,320 feet high.

Few have braved these harsh snow fields for a picnic.

Photo by Chris Burkard

Excursion from the Sheldon Chalet

Earlier in the day, we’d left our cozy digs at the Sheldon Chalet, a striking five-room mini-hotel that hovers on a cliff over Ruth Glacier. This tiny structure, hexagon-shaped, built of steel, and wrapped in windows, is the state’s newest and most remote lodge. It opened in March, 2018, a true labor of love by members of the Sheldon family. (Don Sheldon, a famous Alaskan aviation pioneer, was one of the first known humans on this glacier in the 1950s, several years before Alaska was declared a state. He ended up buying a five-acre parcel, and ever since his successors have enjoyed exclusive rights to the land.)

For those lucky enough to visit the glacier, the Sheldons’ intimate knowledge of these mountains is a treat. From high-altitude hot springs to flyover helicopter tours of the surrounding park, they’ve turned this otherwise inhospitable landscape into a private playground for guests.

The Silence of Glacier Hiking

Glacier hiking might be the best activity you can do in late summer, when conditions are just right so the sun stays out all day without being too strong to melt the snow.

Being confined to such stark surroundings has its benefits. As I walk, I’m grateful for the chance to turn off my devices (and my brain) and tune into something much grander. With the exception of a few whirring prop planes every now and then, the silence here is all-encompassing. But it’s more than just the absence of noise—it’s a humbling force, an invitation to prayer. Trudging up here in this permafrost, with the jagged tip of the Gargoyle fast approaching, my utter respect for these wild, untouchable mountains has only grown.

Lunch on the Glacier

Lunch is soon, and I can hardly wait. This hike, which has led us past a set of wolverine tracks, alongside shadowy crevasses, and over rolling dunes of crystal white powder, offers just a taste of what the original explorers, like Don Sheldon, must have seen, as they fought their way over these ice-crusted fields. I can only imagine how hungry they would’ve been.

Of course, Sheldon couldn’t have possibly imagined a group of travelers—first-time hikers, no less—would one day be leisurely picnicking at the foot of the Gargoyle, seated at a table carved out of the snow. On this frozen table, our guides Nikolai and Terryl have arranged wine glasses and bottles of Alaskan birch water. A bouquet of flowers is stuck into the ice for decoration. Suddenly, a portable burner appears, and into the skillet go fresh Alaskan King crab cakes, all fragrant with lemony breadcrumbs and oil spattering lightly into the snow.

As we eat, Nikolai describes his recent attempt scaling the top of the Gargoyle with a friend, where he said they witnessed a group of gigantic bumblebees, pollinating flowers growing in cracks along the rock. Icy Denali, often glimpsed from afar in rickety tour buses, appears impenetrable, closed off. But really, this is nature in its most original state: slow-moving, humblingly vast, and ripe with adventure. This is one of the great misconceptions about Alaska. The average tourist here is aged 60 and up, but really, this is a young person’s state. If hiking on a glacier, or mountaineering, or heli-skiing, or the thrill of roaming on a merciless 20,000-foot mountain (many believe Denali is harder to climb than Everest) sound appealing, then go. For the sake of uninhibited adventure, you won’t regret it.

The Sheldon Chalet in Alaska

For more information about the Sheldon Chalet, visit: sheldonchalet.com.

Alex Schechter

The post Up on the Glacier: Mindfulness in Alaska appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.

CIVANA Carefree: A Restorative Getaway

When do we take the time to focus on our own vitality—as caregivers and as healers? How we implement self-care for healers is an important question and one I need to ask myself. It’s been an intense few weeks for me and my family. Lots of assignments at work, a graduating high school senior, professional travel, and a house move! I am spent emotionally, physically, and even spiritually. I’m feeling the kind of tired that doesn’t go away after a good night’s sleep. Admittedly, some of my most necessary self-care routines have fallen away. I need a getaway in order to hit the reset button, and I need it now. My college-bound daughter and I decide on the Healers Vitality Program at CIVANA Carefree resort in Carefree, Arizona.

Wellness begins at check-in. Stepping into the lobby of the CIVANA Carefree evokes instant calm, as well as the feeling of being nurtured. The hostess at registration greets us with a genuine smile and meets our hurried and harried arrival state with graciousness. She hands us a pair of beautiful stainless steel water bottles and orients us to the location of the water stations around the property. Hydration is of utmost importance here in the desert and everyone at CIVANA encourages us to drink plenty of water. It’s also a reminder that proper hydration is a must for maintaining resilience as a healer and caregiver at home.

Yoga, Restoration, and Education

Our first class experience is Wall Yoga. Neither of us have been to a Wall Yoga class before, so it is fun and adventurous to try this approach in which familiar poses gain a fresh perspective. And the gentle tension and traction provided by the straps creates internal space in our bodies. Our teacher reminds us that our time here is about self-care. We are feeling more relaxed already.

We refill our water bottles as we leave the yoga class and head to the meandering pool, surrounded by majestic palm trees, looming saguaro cactus, and flowering oleander. In the background we hear a waterfall that leads to a little stream. After a refreshing dip, we sun ourselves while hawks circle overhead. This day is turning out to be perfect.

Next on the enriching activity schedule is an astrology class in the education and experience room. This topic interests both of us, so we join several of our resort-mates and enjoy meeting new friends. The class is created for the curious beginner and offers insight into ways we can understand and be gentle with ourselves. Our self-knowledge is a way to care for our well-being.

A Dinner that Delights at CIVANA Carefree

We enjoy dinner at Terras restaurant with its breathtaking views of the courtyard and pool against a backdrop of desert mountains. We sample a few appetizers and I quickly decide that they are all my favorite. Choices include smashed fingerling potatoes over pimento goat cheese and roasted carrots and turnips over pecan pesto. Each bite is as deeply nourishing as it is mouth-wateringly delicious. My daughter orders a skirt steak on a bed of sweet potatoes with a fabulous chimichurri sauce. My scallops over riced cauliflower with asparagus is tender and flavorful. I am impressed that every item on the menu is created with nutrition in mind while giving equal attention to beautiful presentation and flavors that come alive with each bite. It reminds me that even when cooking at home on a busy day, delighting all of the senses is essential for self-care.

Restful Sleep

As evening descends we return to the serene yoga room for an immersive experience of restorative yoga combined with a crystal bowl sound bath. This is a wonderful way to release stress and tension for deep sleep. It seems everyone here is conspiring to ensure we are pampered and cared for throughout our stay.

It so happens we are visiting during a full moon; the moonlight dancing on the water entices us to take an evening dip in the hot tub. With the stars twinkling in the dark desert sky, and frogs providing the background music, we chat into the night. Then we linger by the fire pit to enjoy the crackling fire as the light of the flames flicker and move across our faces. Getting sleepy now, we return to our room for rest. Anything and everything we can do to sleep well is one of the most important ways we can care for ourselves as caregivers.

A Mindful Morning

Our eyes blink open to sunlight streaming through the sheer curtains. In the relative cool morning, we head out on a guided walk in the desert to learn which desert plants are edible and which can be used medicinally. Who knew that the blooms on a barrel cactus taste like yellow bell peppers? Or that the pods of a saguaro look like the inside of dragonfruit and are sweet and pulpy? This trek through nature is a fantastic way to learn about the desert beauty all around us. It is a mindful practice that eases stress. I take note; short walks to enjoy local beauty is a free stress reliever.

Those tasty cactus blossoms ignite our hunger, and so we’re off to Cafe Meto. My daughter chooses the house-made granola topped with a dollop of yogurt and fresh berries and I choose a chia seed bowl with berries a-plenty and coconut chips. Both are fresh, lightly filling, and delicious. I try a custom organic coffee with date nectar and almond milk. It is one of the smoothest, most delightful coffees I’ve ever had.

The Cocoon of Aerial Yoga

Aerial Yoga in silks is another first for both of us. Our teacher masterfully guides us through the poses and helps us know how to make the practice our own. I particularly enjoy the relaxation at the end all stretched out in the silk, in my own little cocoon. The support feels so sweetly peaceful. I feel completely nourished and deeply centered.

The Power of Unstructured Time

We spend the rest of the day lounging, chatting, napping, and nibbling. Both of us are truly resting and enjoying each moment. It’s amazing how quickly we can experience benefits when we take time to deeply care for ourselves. I’m surprised how much better I feel. My mind is quieter, the tension that had been creeping up in my shoulders is melting away, and my breath is deeper and slower. The encouragement to slow down, savor the moment, and care for myself will serve me when I return home to my to-do list.

Civana Carefree Heal the Healer Program

Personal retreats with a full schedule of classes are available at CIVANA Carefree to everyone year-round. Based on availability, CIVANA’s Healer Vitality Program offers special room rates throughout the year for the following groups of people in the health and wellness field. These include: Caregivers (including in senior living, domestic abuse, shelters, and more), nurses, spa and wellness center staff, massage therapists, estheticians, nutritionists, fitness, meditation, and yoga instructors, and wellness product vendors. Registration for the Heal the Healers program is required by emailing Healers@civanacarefree.com. According to CIVANA, “This program is meant to celebrate and provide a place of rejuvenation for our healers within the wellness field.”

Learn more about CIVANA Carefree: 37220 Mule Train Road, Carefree, AZ 85377
Call: 480-653-9000 Website: civanacarefree.com

Jenn Tarrant

Jenn Tarrant is a Phoenix-based C-IAYT Yoga Therapist, Senior Master Trainer for YogaFit Training Systems, and an Ayurvedic Lifestyle Coach. She enjoys guiding students through deeply transformative experiences with the simplicity and ease of yoga. Jenn is available for private consultations locally and virtually. You can contact her directly: jenn@jenntarrant.com or visit her website: jenntarrant.com for more information.

www.jenntarrant.com

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Sacred Ceremonies and Chanting Honor Tradition, Spiritual Healing, and Gratitude at Maui’s Celebration of the Arts

A line of people make their way to Kapalua’s DT Fleming Beach in the pre-dawn darkness. Despite the silence, there’s a heightened sense of excitement in the air. For some, it’s the first time they’re about to embark on this venture. For others, like me, they’ve experienced the upcoming ritual in the past and have been longing to relive it again.

Soon, two cultural practitioners motion for the growing crowd to circle up and draw closer. Instructions are parlayed: Enter the ocean with your heart open for cleansing out the old and welcoming in the new. Think of your ‘ohana, or family, meditate on those things for which you’re grateful, and welcome in new directions and changes.

Some of the throng pushes past the break, wading in to where the surf is hitting near their sternums. Others dive through waves, seeking out their just-right spot. I’m with those at the edge of the water, digging my heels into the sand so the pull of the surf doesn’t buckle my injured knees. Oh, how I long to be out in the “deep end.” My thoughts of mahalo, gratitude, begin right here – Mahalo for bringing me back to my beloved Maui.

Without a signal of any sort, the waders make their way out of the surf and back onto the shore. We turn to face the sun, which has yet to peek through the clouds over Pu?u Kukui Preserve, a protected rainforest and watershed area. Chanting begins. A chant to which my heart always returns, particularly when I’m frightened or need comforting. And, though he’s not leading the chant today, it’s the voice of Celebration of the Arts Founder Clifford Nae’ole I hear.

E ala é, ka la i ka hikina,
Awaken/Arise, the sun in the east,
I ka moana, ka moana hohonu,
From the ocean, the deep ocean,
Pi‘i ka lewa, ka lewa nu‘u,
Climbing to heaven, the highest heaven,
I ka hikina, aia ka la, e ala é!
In the east, there is the sun, arise!
Mahalo, I whisper as the chant concludes. Mahalo for this place where my spirit feels at home. Mahalo for my Hawai‘i ‘ohana. Mahalo for E ala é and the man who introduced me to it, Clifford.
E ala é concludes with one of the practitioners charging us to go forth and embrace the days ahead as Ritz-Carlton Kapalua’s 25th Celebration of the Arts (COA) begins.

The Story of Celebration of the Arts

Celebration of the Arts was conceived to impart Hawaiian culture, food, dance, art, crafts, music, film, and talk story, or conversation as a way to create common ground between visitors, locals, and Native Hawaiians. “I feel visitors can contribute much to the future of Hawai’i if they’re educated and, therefore, become emotionally attached,” Clifford says of why he started COA. “I urge visitors to take these emotions home and keep an eye out for any legislation, health reforms, educational programs, or indigenous rights that are taking place in their homelands.”

It feels entirely fitting that COA is held at the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua. Somewhere, I got it into my head that Kapalua is the juncture where heaven meets the Earth. I’ve asked Clifford about this before, but he says he’s never heard this supposition. I remain convinced, however, it’s true.

The property includes the dunes of Honokahua, a sacred burial site. When the resort was being built, Hawai‘i was going through what Clifford calls “an awakening.” “Up until the attempt to build the hotel, the Hawaiians had no say in terms of how their artifacts or skeletal remains were handled when dug up for ‘progress,’” he says. Protesters convened as 1,800 remains were about to be removed from the site. “Fortunately, an agreement was solidified between the State of Hawai‘i and the hotel, allowing the burial site to remain intact.” As a result, the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua was relocated further up the bluff and away from this preservation area.

Yoga at the Ritz Carlton Kapalua

While yoga isn’t on COA’s itinerary, it is definitely on tap at the hotel. The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua’s Fitness Center has a robust class schedule featuring everything from Somatic to Laughter Yoga. Many of the 30- to 60-minute classes are free to guests. (As an FYI, yogis under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.)

Additionally, there’s a Mindful Meditation with Music offering at the hotel. Over the years, I’ve foregone this offering in lieu of seeking out the idyllic meditation spots on resort grounds. One is midway along a walking path overlooking the Pacific. The other is tucked under a rocky outcropping, where the surf rolls in, alerting me, “Your meditation session has concluded.”

What makes Celebration of the Arts feel so fitting to a yogi are the rituals that serve as a spiritual connection to the islands. To me, being allowed to witness and participate in these ceremonies is precious.

Ka Wai A Kane Ceremony

As 8 a.m. rolls around, a large group waits at the entrance of a ballroom. Soon, a velvet rope is pulled aside, allowing us access to this “red carpet” event. We’re about to experience the Ka Wai A Kane ceremony.

The public is allowed to watch as several people are invited to drink water made bitter by awa, a Polynesian root that’s consumed socially and during special gatherings like this one. “It’s said the deity Kane provided us with awa to show our dedication to strive for the best,” Clifford explains. “Drinking awa is a sign of sacrifice and commitment.”

Signaling the beginning of Ka Wai A Kane, a conch shell is blown, followed by a chant. A gentleman holding an ohe, or long bamboo pole, tilts it towards two large wooden bowls. Ever so slowly, water fills the vessels. Clifford says, “When you listen to the sound of water that pours from the ohe spout into the Tanoa, or sacred bowl, the sound is akin to the voice of Kane.”

Assisting the kupuna, or elders, a boy passes a shell to be filled from the bowl. Waiting in the wings are several young men serving as Kakoo, also performing the honor of helping. One by one, they approach, kneel before the elders to accept the shell, then deliver it to individuals sitting on a sacred mat or kapa moe. “Do you pledge your support to all things Hawaiian?” Hokulani Holt, the presiding Kumu, or teacher, asks them. “Always,” responds the first participant, drinking the awa.

As this ceremony concludes, the hushed participants depart the room. The next ritual is “To see Hawaiians being Hawaiian.” This is the final ceremony of the day, Wehe ka ipuka… Open the Doorway, or as Clifford puts it, Hawai‘i’s version of “Knock, knock, who’s there?”

Holding sway in the resort lobby, a kupuna opens with a chant. His “Who’s there” response is emitted from the breezeway entrance. Hula halaus, or schools, ‘ohana and spiritual leaders take turns in a very deliberate procession, answering with traditional chants passed down over the centuries. Their query: “Do we have permission to join the Celebration of the Arts?”

Crafts, Games, Food, and Healing

The rest of the COA goes by in a flash. There’s time for visiting the Medicinal Garden to munch on produce from local farms and sip coconut water straight from a machete-sliced coconut.
At various places throughout the building, artisans are busy performing their crafts: drum carving, Hawaiian patchwork quilting, or shell lei making. Elsewhere, hula is performed and ukulele lessons proffered. Facing down at rows of tables are competitors in games of Konane. “It’s similar to checkers,” Clifford says of the centuries-old game of strategy. “Warriors would play it to think about battle scenarios.”

Another art in which COA attendees can be found immersing themselves is one of the healing variety — treatments at the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua’s Waihua Spa. Myriad elements from COA come to mind here. A pathway lined by tall bamboo poles recalls the ohe. There’s a grotto where a hot tub beckons for respite. This is, of course, where one immerses in Waihua, known in ancient Hawai‘i for waters with healing powers. I close my eyes and listen closely. Might I hear the voice of Kane?

Instead, it’s the memory of Clifford’s voice I hear. The one of him chanting on the beach that always follows me:
E ala é, ka la i ka hikina,
Awaken/Arise, the sun in the east,
I ka moana, ka moana hohonu,
From the ocean, the deep ocean,
Pi‘i ka lewa, ka lewa nu‘u,
Climbing to heaven, the highest heaven,
I ka hikina, aia ka la, e ala é!
In the east, there is the sun, arise!

My whispered response, “Mahalo.”

Celebration of the Arts 411

Ready to chant? The 2018 Celebration of the Arts Festival will be held March 30-31. For more information, phone 808-665-7089 or visit: kapaluacelebrationofthearts.com.

Kapalua Area Resorts

Ritz Carlton Kapalua
ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/kapalua-maui
Montage Kapalua Bay
montagehotels.com/kapaluabay
Napili Kai Beach Resort
napilikai.com

Maui

For more information about Maui, visit: gohawaii.com/islands/maui

Bekah Wright

The post A Return to Ritual: Maui’s Celebration of the Arts appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.

Laurel House and her husband on their restorative honeymoon in Punta de Mita, Mexico.

My idea of a vacation is more of what most might call an adventure trip. I love packing my days with tours, visiting villages, and exploring an area’s culture and people. But when it came to planning my honeymoon, I decided to do something outside of my regular habit. What I needed and wanted more than anything else was to do absolutely nothing with my newly minted husband. When it came time to choose a restorative honeymoon, we looked south to Mexico. We specifically to the Pacific Coast village of Punta Mita. I’ve been to Punta Mita before. It’s a quick three-hour flight from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta. (Puerto Vallarta is the nearest airport, which is approximately 45 minutes away by car).

The W Punta de Mita has recently opened, and I was attracted to the opportunity to be able to check in, immediately be handed a margarita, then walk down to our private cabana on the beach. That was exactly what my new hubby and I experienced. Plus, a plate of ceviche freshly caught that morning. Our ocean view room satisfied my lingering need for a unique and sometimes eccentric holiday, with its brightly colored decor and heart-shaped pillows that gave a Dia de los Muertos/fun lovers vibe.

Our dinner was at the W’s onsite Spice Market, just like the one that used to be in the Meatpacking District of NYC with its big bold flavors and bright and biting spices. Unlike New York though, we were accompanied by bikini-clad guests lightheartedly strutting along the tiled walkway crossing over the pool to the edge of the sand. Everyone was having a good time. This created a perfect energetic balance of relaxation and revelry. It was just what we wanted for our honeymoon.

Romance and Relaxation for a Restorative Honeymoon

We spent the next day bouncing between the bed, bathtub, and one of our two patios – all with ocean views. We needed some time to just be… together. No interruptions, no computers, no social media, no meetings, no plans. The next afternoon was our beach day—similarly filled with non-activities. We had a private cabana on the sand, with champagne, ceviche, and books. We lingered with actual printed books that we had time to read… such a luxury!

There was one scheduled adventure though – a three-hour escape to the Away Spa. We first spent a couple of hours in the jungle-like outdoor area while dipping into the three temperature pools: hot, body temperature, and an invigorating ice cold plunge! Then we eased into a couple’s massage, where the therapists poured hot candle wax that turns into massage oil onto our skin. They gifted the remainder of the wax to us so we could continue the hot activity in the bedroom.

The Difference Between a Trip and a Vacation

After four nights (too few, but we had to get back to reality and our kids), we felt even further solidified as a couple and set up to start our life together. What became apparent to me was that there is a difference between a “vacation” and a “trip.” I usually take trips. I love adventures, experiences, and explorations that make me feel expanded and, honestly, a bit exhausted.

Vacations, on the other hand, are opportunities to take a moment to relax, reset, and reconnect. There is a time and a place for each. My honeymoon was the time… and the place was W Punta de Mita.

Communication is Key!

Are you craving a relaxing vacation but your partner is more of an adventure type? Communicate! Before planning for any trip, it’s essential to have a conversation about the purpose of your getaway in order to align your hopes and expectations.

Set a time to talk about it, during which you both can be focused and listen to each other’s needs and wants. Don’t have this conversation in passing or when you come across a couple of minutes to bring it up.Be sure to think through and have clarity around the kind of trip you are craving.

Ask yourself some of the following questions:

What are your criteria for a destination?
What variety of activities do you want to do?
Do you want to meet up with any friends or family?
Do you want to have a schedule or play it day by day?
If you want the flow to be more relaxed, are there specific activities that will require reservations and some planning—like special meals or spa treatments?
If your partner has a different perspective, see how you can merge your needs so you can both come away feeling like you are taking your perfect trip.

Vacations are meant to be connecting and rejuvenating. If the getaway doesn’t start with having a conversation about how you envision the trip and how you want to feel, it can end up creating conflict. Communication creates a powerful experience.

Area Explorations

Really, there was no need to leave the resort for our restorative honeymoon. But, we did venture out to the small fishing village of Sayulita, known as a village of love. The streets are lined with little shops spilling out with artisan crafts, interspersed with outdoor restaurants specializing in tacos and beer, and dappled with hearts and signs that say “Amor.”

After strolling around for a few hours, we took a car to Imanta Resort in Punta de Mita, which you absolutely cannot miss. This place defines personalized, individualized service. Imanta is in a completely private and comfortably upscale setting. After a 10-minute drive on a jungle road, we were greeted by staff and escorted to the observation deck. There we had 360° views of the jungle and ocean, plus a private bartender to make fresh cocktails from local fruits plucked that morning. Dinner was an equally unparalleled and private experience.

Another Imanta must: the spa. The completely outdoor spa has just three treatment “rooms,” with palm fronds and plants separating each space. You are massaged, you shower, you even use the bathroom without a roof over your head. It sounds rustic, but it redefines luxury.

Punta de Mita Travel Resources

The W Punta de Mita: wpuntademita.com
Imanta Resort: imantaresorts.com

Laurel House

Laurel House is a Santa Monica-born, bred, and based dating and relationship coach, helping to empower her clients to be their best selves so that they can find the love the deserve. She has a no-games, rule-screwing approach, teaching her clients exactly what to say and do, how to present themselves online and in-person, and the specific strategy to find love- hard, deep, and fast, just like she and so many of her clients have. Laurel believes that dating is about clarity through communication, and with clarity comes confidence. Laurel is called a “Man Whisperer,” Dating Jedi Master, Relationship Fairy, and Cyrano. More than anything else, Laurel demystifies dating so that you can confidently date with integrity and purpose.

www.LaurelHouse.com

The post Relaxation Meets Revelry: A Restorative Honeymoon in Punta de Mita appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.

The days that make us happy make us wise – John Masefield

 
The farm stay is a growing trend these days, both stateside and globally, and is a great opportunity to unplug, unwind, and disembark (at least temporarily) from the crazy train that is so often our daily lives. “Disconnect in order to reconnect,” is the motto at Rancho Dos Amantes in Paso Robles, California.
 
A farm stay gives us a chance to relate to and immerse ourselves in our natural environment, to learn about or be reminded of where our food comes from, and to get to know the kind, wise, and hardworking people who grow or raise that food. It is an occasion perhaps, to wander aimlessly down a dirt path, listen to the songs of the crickets, cicadas, peepers, local birds or other native creatures in the area, experience a truly dark and star-filled night sky, and to be reminded that most of our worries and woes really aren’t so consequential after all.
 

 

The Basics of a Farm Stay

Farm stays can be found near major urban areas and popular tourist destinations as well as in locations that are off the beaten path. Costs for a stay are typically on par with hotel and B&B accommodations in the same area.
 
While the term “farm” may bring to mind the image of a big old red barn and cows grazing on a hillside, know that a farm stay can also occur on a ranch, vineyard, or orchard. A farm stay can be a fun and educational solo exploit, a chance to do something different with a few friends, a cozy getaway for two, a family adventure, or a place to hold a small family gathering, work-related retreat, or even an intimate wedding.
 
The optimal time to visit a farm depends on both the geographic location and the particular function(s) of the farm you’re visiting. Usually, warm weather months are the best and most enjoyable times to observe and participate in farm activities, but not always.
 
For example, on our farm in southern Maine, our primary pursuit is maple syrup production, so folks who want to help us collect and boil sap need to visit in late Winter/early Spring (though blueberry picking on our farm in the mid- to- late Summer is a good alternative for those unwilling to brave Maine during the colder months!).
 
Closer to LA, Spring and Fall may be more temperate times to get away, and if you choose to stay at a vineyard, be aware that harvest and crush occur in the fall.
 
In terms of food, arrangements vary widely from farm to farm. One (or more) home-cooked meals may be provided per day, or possibly just a continental breakfast option, and some farms make kitchen facilities available to guests. If this is the case, you might need to bring groceries with you depending on the location of the nearest grocery store, though many food items such as seasonal fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, honey, eggs, maple syrup, fresh milk, kefir, yogurt, or ice cream may be sourced directly from the farm itself, and make great picnic items!
 

 

Can I drive the tractor?

You probably won’t be driving a tractor (or a team of horses) for liability reasons, and while you almost certainly won’t be required to perform any sort of physical labor, farm stays are frequently designed to be informative and interactive experiences; you will likely be allowed and even encouraged to help with such activities as feeding chickens, collecting eggs, picking fresh produce, pressing apples for cider, grooming horses, or even trying your hand at milking cows or goats.
 
You could have an opportunity to learn about cheesemaking, beekeeping, raising alpacas, shearing sheep and spinning wool, making goat’s milk soap, preserving food, or a myriad of other farm-related topics.
 
Alternatively, farms are located in close proximity to other desirable destinations such as the mountains, the ocean, local, state, or national parks, or other areas of interest, and as is the case when staying at a hotel or B&B, it is certainly your prerogative to make a farm stay just a place to rest your head, while you spend daylight hours exploring other nearby attractions.
 

 

What about catching up on a bit of R&R!?

If all the talk of farming endeavors wears you out just reading about it, never fear, your farm stay experience doesn’t have to be all work and no play. In fact, a farm can be a picturesque and peaceful setting in which to relax and unwind. Our farm is equipped with Adirondack chairs in a gazebo surrounded by wildflowers, a front porch with rocking chairs, and a hammock strung between oak trees – all good places to revel in the joy of inactivity.
 
Farms might have private swimming holes, ponds for canoeing or kayaking, and trails for wandering through the woods or fields, and some offer regular yoga classes or the option to hold retreats.
 
Yoga and meditation classes take place on the patio overlooking vineyards at Dunning Vineyards in Paso Robles (don’t worry, friendly resident canine Ralphie won’t judge your downward facing dog). Following weekly yoga classes at Rancho Dos Amantes, visitors are invited to harvest fruits and vegetables from the guest garden and can prepare them any way they like in the available commercial kitchen.
 
Former city dwellers turned farmers Kristy and Evan Bishop found their slice of heaven in Reves de Moutons, also located in Paso Robles. “Lose the television,” advises Kristy, “when you have live sheep and goat “tv” and a glass of wine, you don’t need it!”
 

 
On a warm September day last year during a farm stay at Morrill Farm in Sumner, Maine, my husband Frank and I took a meandering stroll (accompanied by the delightful family dog) down a long dirt path that led us by fields of grazing dairy cows, over a footbridge, and to a lazy stream where we kicked off our shoes and waded into the cool, shallow waters. You can find a more leisurely tour available via a good old-fashioned horse-drawn carriage, hay wagon, or sleigh ride on farms such as the one run by our friend and neighbor Kathy Ossinger of Spirit Wind Farm; at the end of the day, perhaps there’s an outdoor fireplace or fire pit to cozy up to!
 

 

Ready, set, country!

If you are starting to think you could use a bit of country in your life, it’s time to do a little research about farm stays in your desired area. Then pack some sturdy, closed-toed shoes or boots and some comfortable, casual (very casual) clothes you won’t mind getting a bit dirty and that are appropriate for the activities on your chosen farm (think function, not fashion), and hit the road!
 
Get out there, embrace the wide-open spaces and appreciate the beauty that surrounds you. Breathe the fresh air (I promise, more often than not the smells on a farm are good ones, like fresh cut hay – my favorite!), meet some interesting people, learn something new, and have fun. After all, isn’t that what life is all about?
 
Peruse Farm Stays U.S. to find farm stays in every state in the U.S.
 

Jennifer Schultz

Jennifer Schultz is a Midwestern girl living in New England. She is happiest when living, working, and playing close to nature, and can frequently be found with her hands in the dirt at Maple Moon Farm: maplemoonfarm.com.

www.maplemoonfarm.com

The post Chores Not Required: A Farm Stay as a Retreat Destination appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.