Destination Spas
Mind Over Fat Matters. An Interview with Dr. Lavinia Rodriguez
Friday, July 23rd, 2010 | Destination Spas, Weight Loss, healthy living, wellness | 1 Comment
Summer is here and the living is easy! For anyone working on weight loss, this may seem a little more challenging as summer is when we want to enjoy the outdoors, go swimming and wear lighter clothing. However, now is the time. It’s never too late to do something healthy and positive for yourself!
Lavinia Rodriguez, PH.D.
Dr. Lavinia Rodriguez is a clinical psychologist, an expert in weight management and the author of Mind Over Fat Matters: Conquering Psychological Barriers to Weight Management. She has a lot of helpful information to offer anyone looking to make healthy changes and it all starts with our brain. Mind Over Fat Matters is full of great insight, starting with Chapter 1 - Friend or Foe: The Psychology of Your Brain and it continues to offer useful information with short chapters, tidbits and notes so you can also use the book as ‘your journal’ to success. Lao Tzu said it best, “The Journey of a Thousand Miles begins with a Single Step!” My goal is to give you another tool to take that step. Baby steps! That’s what we’re talking about here.
Take a few minutes and listen to my interview with Dr. Rodriguez. Timely information and helpful insight to get you started or move you along on your personal journey.
Podcast interview with Dr. Lavinia Rodriguez
And, getting back to summer, Dr. Rodriguez offers some tips on why now is the perfect time to start pursuing your summer weight loss goals and I’ve included a couple below, however the larger nugget here is the amazing interview I recently had with Dr. Rodriguez about her book and also about life management. I invite you to listen to our podcast using the link above or below.
The Interview with Dr. Rodriguez
Summer Tips from Dr. Lavinia Rodriguez
1.Take Advantage of the Great Outdoors: “Summer is the perfect time to really make exercise a part of your daily routine,” Rodriguez points out. “For one thing, the weather is warm, so outdoor exercise is much more fun – especially in the milder mornings and evenings. Also, the days are longer and sunnier, so you’re probably in a better mood than you would be in the depths of winter. Lastly, there’s a much smaller chance that you’ll be knocked out of commission by a sore throught or runny nose. Remember, there is no better fat burner than an active lifestyle!”
2. Lose Weight LIke your Brush Your Teeth: “Losing weight ought to be like brushing your teeth,” she explains. “You don’t get preoccupied by what the toothpaste and floss are actually doing to your teeth. You just trust that if you perform healthy behaviors, you’ll get the desired results. It’s the same with losing weight – if you focus on the behaviors of eating well and being active, the body will take care of the rest.”
Summer at The Golden Door – Opportunity is knocking!
Wednesday, July 14th, 2010 | Adventure, California Spas, Destination Spas, Golden Door Escondido, healthy living, wellness | No Comments
If you’re familiar with the original Golden Door Spa in Escondido, CA then you know it’s one of the best destination spas in the world. Forty guests per week find out how to live a more healthy, peaceful and joyful life and for the last 50 plus years, it has been the gold standard for destination spas. At the usual rate of about $7500 per week (per person), it’s certainly at the high end as far as spas go. And, people have been returning time and time again because of the experience, the care they receive and for various reasons during different times in their life.
Here’s the Big News –
This summer, and for the first time I’ve ever seen, the Golden Door Spa is offering two weeks (choose either August 1 – 8 or August 15 – 22) for a Two-for-One rate. So instead of $7495 per person, the rate is $3747.50 (plus tax) per person for the Sunday-Sunday, 7-night stay. And all of the services and amenities are included. Several massages during the week, skin care, hair consultation, herbal wraps and so much more.
Personalize your stay to transform your life.
If you want to focus on fitness, you can work with one of the top fitness trainers in the country. The food is amazing, and Chef Dean Rucker is a genius with his spa-cuisine. Hiking in the morning, classes during the day, lectures in the evening and a nurturing environment that promotes healing and relaxation.
If you’ve ever wanted to experience the Golden Door Spa, the original in Escondido, CA – here’s your opportunity.
Who will you re-discover beyond the Golden Door?
Space is limited (remember, 40 guests is the maximum for this one of a kind destination spa).
If you’d like more insight on the Golden Door Spa experience, feel free to e-mail me at donna@mindfuladventures.com or go to www.goldendoor.com and let them know you saw this on MindfulAdventures.com
Summer at Canyon Ranch in Tucson, AZ
Sunday, June 27th, 2010 | Canyon Ranch, Destination Spas, healthy living, wellness | No Comments
Nutritious and Delicious!
Plans for the summer? Thinking about leading a healthier life? Canyon Ranch has a lot going on this summer to help you make this your best summer ever.
If you’re already familiar with Canyon Ranch, then you know how much there is to do and how their classes and services can help you get back on track with fitness and nutrition.
If not, then continue reading about the benefits of a worthwhile trip to Canyon Ranch. By the way, Canyon Ranch offers a full program in both Tucson, AZ and Lenox, MA. If you’re looking for a beach resort, then the newer Miami Beach location is one to consider. The details below are based on the Tucson location due to the lower rates offered in the summer, which makes it one of the best values for a destination spa adventure.
When traveling to Canyon Ranch, it’s great to balance out your stay and focus on nutrition, fitness and spirituality. The programs offered will enrich your life and you’ll leave with the tools required to really make a difference. It’s about ‘lifestyle’ changes and not a quick fix.
Meals are delicious and nutritious and with such a wide variety you’re sure to find something that you enjoy. Meals display nutrition information so you can see how many calories you’re eating, as well as fiber, fat, protein and carb content. And, cooking demos are available as well and you can learn the basics of cooking healthy and bringing what you learned home and into your own kitchen.
With a wide variety of fitness options, you may even find something new to try and perhaps engage further when you return home. From Yoga, to Pilates to Dance; you’ll feel energized and build self-confidence as well. Meet with a Canyon Ranch exercise physiologist and get to know your body better so you can build on your strengths.
The Spirituality program at Canyon Ranch is one of the best in the country and whether you’re seeking to find ‘calm’ in your hectic life or enhance your meditation practice, you’ll find an array of options available. On my last visit I spent time with Lisa for a soul-coaching session and it brought me a sense of peace and helped me to go deeper into my own spirituality practice, something that I continue to work on at home.
Canyon Ranch is like a luxury camp for adults, and when you experience all of the possibilities of how you can create a healthier and more balanced life, you will know that every moment you spent at Canyon Ranch brought you closer to the ‘you’ that you always wanted to be. A healthy lifestyle takes work, however when you have the tools to make it happen, it’s so much easier and you can see the results.
Summer Promotions (and beyond):
1. Two New/Two Terrific. If you’re both new to Canyon Ranch, this is for you. Share time with a girlfriend or your significant other and learn healthier skills together so you can support each other for a lifetime of good health.
2. Celebrate You. If you’re going solo, this may be for you.
3. In the Neighborhood. If you live in California (or Arizona), then this is THE BEST value!
4. Graduate Promotion. Okay, this is when I think, “If I knew then what I know now, I’d have gone to Canyon Ranch when I first graduated!” If you’re a graduate or know a graduate, this is a great opportunity to share a room and save and go forth into the world armed with all the tools necessary for a healthier life.
Visit www.canyonranch.com for more information or feel free to e-mail me at donna@mindfuladventures.com
To your health, always!
If you’re a CPA, consider a SPA! The Antidote to Stress.
Thursday, April 15th, 2010 | Adventure, Destination Spas, Red Mountain Spa, healthy living | No Comments
You’ve made it to April 15 and now it’s time to take some time for you. Relax and Rejuvenate!
You deserve a relaxing getaway and time to just unwind and put tax season behind you. There are so many options for either a few nights or a longer stay. Release the stress with an invigorating fitness class, an adventurous hike or a much-awaited game of golf.
And then spend time at the spa and experience something like the Red Mountain Revitalizer (at Red Mountain Spa in St. George, UT). This 75-minute service will allow you to drift away and experience total relaxation. It includes a scalp massage, hair cleanse and condition, followed by a facial cleansing, full-body exfoliation and massage. Total indulgence that is well deserved. Afterall, it’s time to relax your mind and rejuvenate your body.
See more top destination spas for your journey and take some time now for you!
Top 5 Green Veggies and Herbs for St. Patrick’s Day
Wednesday, March 17th, 2010 | Canyon Ranch, Destination Spas, Golden Door Escondido, Rancho la Puerta, Red Mountain Spa, healthy living | No Comments
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
Maybe you’re having corned beef and cabbage tonight for your traditional St. Patrick’s Day meal and maybe you’re thinking about doing something ‘green’ to honor St. Pat. Below is a list of Top 5 Green Veggies and herbs that are readily available, nutritious and easy to use. And, I’ve also included links to some amazing recipes from the top destination spas in the U.S., such as Canyon Ranch, Golden Door, Red Mountain Spa and Rancho la Puerta. Enjoy your day and here’s to the Irish (and healthful eating made simple)!
1. Green Beans/String Beans
Fresh is always best and always available. Green beans are low in calories and high in nutrition noting vitamins A, C and K to name a few. Steam or eat them raw. They’re crunchy and yummy and can be used as a side, a salad or as a main dish when you add an Irish favorite, like potatoes.
2. Spinach
Popeye’s favorite and mine, too. Packed with nutrients like vitamins A, K and manganese and other cardioprotective nutrients. One of the dark, leafy vegetables that’s so important for healthy eating. Steam or saute in a little olive oil and garlic or enjoy in a salad.
3. Avocado
The ‘good’ fat you may want to include. Monounsaturated fatty acids, like oleic acid, may help lower your cholesterol. Filled with nutrients like vitamin K, fiber, potassium and more. Enjoy in a sandwich, in a salad or with your favorite Mexico-inspired meal (and there are low fat and healthy versions of guacamole you can make on your own).
4. Peppermint
Ah, soothing mint! It may help with digestion and is a source of vitamins C and A. It’s refreshing, cooling and soothing. Use for mint tea, on a bowl of fresh fruit or with some cold water and ice as a refreshing drink.
5. Basil
So fragrant and flavorful! A nutritious herb with anti-bacterial properties as well as vitamins A, K and calcium. Known to be used in many Italian dishes, such as pesto and Insalata Caprese (yes, a personal favorite), which consists of fresh tomato, mozzarella (part-skim preferred) and fresh basil with a drizzle of good olive oil.
I hope you’ll enjoy more of these veggies in your diet and maybe visit one of the destination spas noted for their recipes above as a way to kick-off a healthier lifestyle. Enjoy! 
Dear Donna Column page added to Mindful Adventures blog
Friday, March 12th, 2010 | Adventure, Dear Donna Column, Destination Spas, healthy living | No Comments
The Dear Donna Column is back and appears as a page on the Mindful Adventures blog – (and seeking another publication and syndication!).
Write to Dear Donna about destination spa vacations, spas, spa etiquette, healthy products and services and wellness. Learn from others or send in one of your own. One question (and answer) will appear weekly.
E-mail Donna your question at: donna@mindfuladventures.com
Happy Travels!
Springtime Savings at Rancho la Puerta
Saturday, February 27th, 2010 | Adventure, Destination Spas, Rancho la Puerta, healthy living | No Comments
If you’ve been to Rancho la Puerta, then you have a pretty good idea of how even more amazing it is to be there during the Spring. Flora and fauna in bloom, warmer days, and that great feeling you get when you’re active outdoors. And to add to the excitement, Rancho la Puerta is offering 10% savings on their Ranchera and Hacienda room types and 20% savings on their Villas. The best value is the Jr. Villa and my favorite area of Villa Sol. I have such great memories of being at Rancho la Puerta. Invigorating days and relaxing evenings. Butterflies in flight, long strolls by the vineyards and the warmth of the afternoon sun remind me of being mindful and living in the moment.
My favorite hike is the Organic hike and I often think about getting to the top of that hill and walking through the garden. For me, it was like the ‘Wizard of Oz’ when it went from black and white to color. The beauty of that area is something to see, especially after this harsh winter. It also reminds me of patience and the knowing that any seeds that we plant, and yes, this is a metaphor for life as well, will bud and flourish given nourishment, patience and time.
So, if you’re looking for something different to do this spring or want to return to an old favorite, take a look at Rancho la Puerta - it may be what you’ve been looking for.
E-mail me at donna@mindfuladventures.com with any questions or assistance. I’ll even give you a spa gift when you make your reservation with me.
To your health and wellness!
Reality Shows are out. Adventure is in at Red Mountain Spa!
Tuesday, January 26th, 2010 | Destination Spas, Red Mountain Spa | No Comments
Old Thought: Watching Reality Shows
New Thought: Interactive and Experiential Adventures
Welcome to 2010 and taking control of your life.
Seriously, I often wonder why is there such a following with reality shows when you can co-create and ‘be’ in your own life and enjoy interactive adventures. Red Mountain Resort & Spa is one place that offers opportunities with this new thought. Afterall, we are the actors in our own movie as well as the producer and director.
If you’re tired of watching others ‘live their life’ then perhaps it’s time to consider what may be holding you back from living yours. Maybe you’re stuck in your current reality? Are you looking for other tools to help you move forward because your current way of thinking is holding you back? An Albert Einstein quote comes to mind, he said, “We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.” So, even he realized that we ‘create’ our reality.
One of the experiential programs that is noteworthy is the ‘Emotional Fitness’ event, led by Andrea Hanson, coming up Feb. 10 – 14 (other dates throughout 2010 as well). Andrea Hanson is a Certified Energy Health Practitioner and a Certified Kundalini Yoga Therapist. Her program offers a “multi-cultural emotional fitness approach to healing” and an opportunity to end patterns of negative thinking, emotions and behaviors that affect your mental, physical, emotional and spiritual self so you can create a life of emotional peace.
In addition to three meals daily, hiking, healthy living classes, the ‘Emotional Fitness’ program* also includes: Nine Experiential Learning Sessions including Understanding of the Body’s Energy System, Energy Therapy, Meditation and Kundalini Yoga Practice; 75-minute Private Energy Therapy Session (with Andrea), a Telephone Session with Andrea after Returning Home, and a Take Home Strategy Plan and Resource Packet including Andrea’s Meditation CD.
Here’s to your own reality show! Enjoy your life’s adventure.
*Additional fee for Special events.
What have you got to Lose? Canyon Ranch has answers.
Thursday, January 14th, 2010 | Destination Spas, healthy living | No Comments
Life Enhancement Center
Nutritious and Delicious!
in improving your life!
Last Minute Savings for Rancho la Puerta Ends in 48 hours!
Wednesday, January 13th, 2010 | Destination Spas, healthy living | No Comments
Winter at the Ranch!
Last Minute Savings for Rancho la Puerta Winter stays ends on January 15! And what a savings they’re offering as I haven’t seen this kind of reduction for this amazing Old Mexico style destination spa. And, Rancho la Puera is in their 70th year – even more amazing and what a great success as well.
As we get ready to enter this next half of January, many of us are dedicated to our fitness routine and commitment to eat more healthy in 2010. And if there’s ever been a time to get even more support, it’s now as Rancho la Puerta is offering 25% off all rooms from the week of Jan. 23 through the week of Feb. 27. Rancho la Puerta is based on a 7-night stay (Saturday-Saturday) and this promotion must be booked no later than this Friday, January 15, 2010.
A typical day at Rancho la Puerta might include a morning hike, healthy breakfast, yoga, Pilates, a nutrition class, a healthful lunch, afternoon meditation, spa service (a la carte), aqua aerobics class, relaxation at the pool or hammock, a nap before dinner, an evening lecture and a restful night’s sleep. Meals are vegetarian and as colorful as they are delicious and the grounds are breathtaking with the maturity of the fauna and foliage.
There are so many reasons to visit Rancho la Puerta, one of the first destination spas, and the most important reason of all is to be good to yourself.
To your health!
(Photo courtesy of Rancho la Puerta.com)
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