With the amazing growth in the spa industry, I thought I’d include an oldie but goodie in today’s blog entry. It’s an article I wrote a while back and it still applies today. Spa is more than lotions and potions and a massage every so often. It’s a lifestyle…it’s about healthy living and encompasses good nutrition, fitness, relaxing sleep and meditation. We are responsible for our well being and being mindful of what we eat, when we move and how well we sleep are all factors in living a healthy lifestyle. You may have heard some of this before, however now is the time to make the changes to improve your life.  I often think to myself, “if not now, when” and so I challenge you to the same. If not now, when? Create the life you want.  It all starts with good health! 

Spa Travel – A Vacation with a Purpose

When you think of spa, you may visualize healing waters and mineral springs. Your thinking would be on target, however nowadays ‘spa’ is much more than that. Consider going to a Day Spa and pampering yourself for a day, add in Yoga or a Pilates class and you’ve done a great job on focusing on yourself and creating a little more balance. Now, consider a few days or a week of fitness classes, pampering spa treatments, stress reduction, healthful spa cuisine and additional opportunities to create a healthier lifestyle. Perhaps a cooking class or nutrition class is appealing or something more challenging like climbing a rock wall or doing something you never thought you’d do. A spa vacation is relaxing, rejuvenating and in many cases a week away could be life changing.

Let’s embark on a journey to discover more about Spa Travel. Relax, pour yourself a cup of green tea and discover a world of possibilities.

Spa 101
Spa Travel is growing and spa-goers are looking for new experiences. Indulge your senses and consider a Spa Vacation. Below you’ll find information to help in your decision process.

Hotel & Resort Spas - these typically include fitness facilities and can sometimes be managed by an outside source or by the resort. Spa visits are typically complemented by use of the resort’s other facilities, such as golf, beach or tennis. Spa cuisine may or may not be offered.

Destination Spa - The key focus is to provide specific health and wellness treatments and facilities. Guests stay for at least several days, sometimes enjoying week-long packages. Spa cuisine is always offered at a destination spa. Some destination spas have their own natural springs which provide mineral, thermal or seawater for hydrotherapy treatments.

Medical Spa - A fast-growing part of the spa business, medical spas (or medi-spas) usually have a medical director supervising treatments that could include cosmetic surgery, dermatology and other “age-slowing” treatments. Typical spa treatments are also usually offered at medical spas. The growing trend is for medical doctors to open medical spas either on the same site as their medical facility, or adjacent to it.

Cruise Ship Spa - Cruise ship spas provide spa and fitness facilities aboard ocean liners. Cruise ships are now also offering spa cuisine in restaurants throughout the vessel.
(Source: International Spa Association)

Now that you have an idea of the different types of spa opportunities, consider what you’d like to do and what area you might like to focus on. Do you want to focus on fitness and perhaps hiking or are you looking for a location to help reduce stress and create a healthy lifestyle. Consider the following:
• Stress Management: Learn how to manage stress and learn new relaxation techniques and ways to put them into practice when you return home. Learn how to create a life in balance.
• Pampering: Indulge in spa treatments from facials to massages to something exotic.
• Fitness, Health & Nutrition: Stretch your body and participate in an array of classes, sports activities and integrate what you learn into your lifestyle. Learn how lifestyle choices can lead you to a path of wellness.
• Spirituality & Enlightenment: Engage in T’ai Chi, Yoga, Meditation and other practices to calm your mind and spark your spirit. All roads lead to self-awareness and tranquility.
Sample schedules are available to review and get ideas on what you can do on your spa vacation. Below is just one idea:

Sample schedule:

7:00AM Morning Walk/Yoga or Meditation
8:00AM Breakfast
9:00AM Hiking or Biking Adventure
10:30AM AntiAging Seminar/or Nutrition Seminar
12:30PM Lunch
1:30PM Pool/Free Time/Yoga or Pilates
3:00PM Spa Treatment – Hot Stone Massage
4:00PM Healthy Cooking Demo/Class
6:00PM Dinner
8:00PM Relax/Evening Program-optional

Okay, so you’ve been going for facials, massages and maybe an exotic treatment once in a while. There’s an abundance of treatments available at spa locations, many are ‘signature’ treatments created by the spa as well as ‘exotic’ treatments that are sure to rev up your senses and bring serenity to your body, mind and spirit. Here are just a few of what you’ll find:

Spa Treatments Glossary

Aromatherapy: An ancient healing art using essential oils from plants, leaves, bark, roots, seeds, resins and flowers. Oils are used to treat emotional disorders, organ dysfunction, and skin problems and are used during massage, facials, body wraps and hydro baths.

Ayurvedic: An ancient system of traditional folk medicine from India using a Variety of techniques to restore balance. Often used in nutrition, herbal medicine, aromatherapy, massage and meditation.

Feldenkrais (Method): A system of bodywork developed by Moshe Feldenkrais that attempts to reprogram the nervous system through movement augmented by physical pressure and manipulation.

Lomi-Lomi: Hawaiian rhythmical, rocking massage.

Salt Glow Treatment: The body is rubbed with a vigorous, abrasive scrub, consisting of coarse salt usually mixed with essential oils and water. It cleanses pores and removes dead skin. It is usually followed by a gentle shower and moisturizer.

Thalassotherapy: An Ancient Greek therapy (thalasso is Greek for sea) – treatments use the therapeutic benefits of the sea, and sea water products for their vitamins, minerals and trace elements, which can heal and reinvigorate skin and hair. (Source: International Spa Association)

Enjoy the Spa Lifestyle!

© Copyright 2006 Donna M. Mantone-Adinolfi and Mindful Adventures. All rights reserved.

Greetings from the southeast! 

With the middle of summer upon us many are either on vacation or still thinking of where to go and what to do before September arrives.  I don’t have children, however when September arrives I often think of going back to school and that mindset of ‘buckling down’ and getting back to focus.  Even though I work just about every day including weekends, summer is a more relaxed time and one that I’d like to extend, at least mindfully. 

If you’re still considering some summer spa time, and by spa, I am referring to the lifestyle…eating healthy, fitness/nature/hiking, and perhaps jumpstarting a healthier lifestyle and getting back to living in the moment.  Of all the seasons, summer is a great time to learn more about living in the present moment.  I hope you’ll find something interesting here.  Enjoy the rest of the summer and (yes, a little self-promoting), if you’re still looking for a spa getaway, call me for some great promotions still being offered…most are in the southwest.  Live mindfully!  Enjoy the spa lifestyle….every day.

Summer Spa Speak…it’s more than just lotions and potions:

#1 - Make an investment in your health:  Stress….we all know what they say about stress.  So, why not consider taking control of your health and consider a spa.  Take time to relax, revitalize and rejuvenate and spend time at the spa.  Spas offer an opportunity to make changes in eating habits and take advantage of nutritional information and consultations.  They offer a plethora of fitness classes and a chance to try something different.  And, of course, enjoy spa services such as a Swedish Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Facials, Reflexology, Acupuncture and a wide variety of services that help with relaxation and so much more.

There are more than 14,000 spas in the U.S. - consider taking a few days to immerse yourself into the spa lifestyle and if you only have one day off, make it a day at the spa.  You’ll return home feeling better than ever. 

#2 - Gal Pal Power:  If you’re like me, you don’t see your friends very often……between work and their family obligations, there is little time for some girllfriend time so perhaps it would be a good idea to combine two important events in one…….time with your friends and some relaxation time.  A few hours can be life changing especially if you’re on your own most of the time and just need to be with your friends….the ones who know you best and offer a support system.    Whether you’re a spa pro or someone who has never been before, surely one of your friends knows a spa to consider and can plan the afternoon or day.  Relax and reconnect with your friends…..and yourself.

#3 - Things to know before you go:

*  Do some research - check on a few spas and get their menu of services.   Which one has what you’re looking for and if you’re going with a few friends, check the schedule to be sure you can get appointment times together.

* Express yourself - be sure you mention your preference for a male or female therapist.  Ask questions, it’s okay and best to go into your service without apprehension. 

* Time to relax - Sometimes we do bring on our own stress by not allowing enough time…..so, be sure to arrive at least 30-minutes prior to your service and take advantage of the amenities at the spa, even if it’s sitting quietly going through a magazine and drinking a cup of green tea.  You will get more from your treatment if you walk in the room in a more relaxed state.  After your service, feel free to do the same.  Sit quietly and extend that feeling of eurphoria. 

* Bare minimum - Your comfort is important.  What you choose to wear under your robe is your decision, especially if it’s your first spa experience. 

* Quiet Rooms - Do you prefer a quiet service or a little conversation?  It’s up to you…….you can either immerse yourself into the experience and relax quietly or (if you’re like me), you may want a little conversation.  You decide!

* Affordable?  Yes! - Many spas offer special rates and packages and there are also spas connected with massage schools, so it is affordable for all.  Although most services are 50-60 minutes, there are opportunities for 30-minute massages, which offer lower rates.  Take a look at the spa menu and simply ask if there are any specials. 

* Grateful for Gratuities - Some spas include a service charge, which could be the tip.  So always ask if you’re not sure. Although it is customary to tip 15-20 percent, it is also up to you. 

* ISPA - International Spa Association:  ISPA has more than 3000 members in 75 countries and ISPA member spas sign a Standards & Practices agreement and respects your rights as a spa-goer by using the ISPA Code of Conduct.  So be sure to look for the ISPA logo.

Resource:  ISPA

Summer is here and although it’s been quite hot in most of the U.S., it is officially here and time to think more about summer travel, summer fun and summer ‘must haves’ to keep your cool.  As a writer, I get a lot of information in my inbox for new products and services and there are some that I like that I thought I’d pass on, such as this one….good for your ’sole’ and useful all year, not just the summer.

FlexFlop…..if you haven’t heard of them yet, you will.   I’ve been going more frequently for pedicures and got in the habit of bringing my own flipflops, a little more sturdy than the paper type ones that you sometimes get when you leave (and good luck walking in them!).   Now we have FlexFlops……..they fold, they come in an array of cool colors and they come in a cute little bag so it’s like getting two items in one because you can also use the bag as a cosmetic bag or even as a purse for the spa….enough room for your phone (although it would be nice to leave that behind so you can relax) as well as a personal item or two. 

Another option is if you’re at an event in heels………ahh, what a relief to take them off and put these on.  So many uses and such a clever idea.  Stacy, the owner of FlexFlops, has also been on The Big Idea.   I recently spoke with her and congratulated her on her success.  Bottom line, if you have a dream, go for it.  It’s the chances we don’t take that we’ll regret later, mistakes just teach us a lesson….nothing ventured, nothing gained…..you get the idea! 

For a visual on the look, go to www.flexflop.com and if you’re ordering, go to:

www.indieshopper.com  www.onlyslippers.com or www.shopintuition.com 

Oh, and if you’re a fan of Big Idea, check this out:

Flexflop voted as a BIG IDEA on The Big Idea with Donny Deutsch-
Check out the clip at: http://www.cnbc.com/id/1584023……=726085039

But wait, there’s more to tell you about Mother’s Day weekends… 

There are all kinds of great weekend options for Mother’s Day and I wanted to share one other with you and I’m really excited about this one because it’s being led by Dr. Beatrice Berry at Red Mountain Spa!  If you haven’t heard of Dr. Berry, then seek an opportunity to hear her speak and be in her presence.  She is amazing and I’ve had the pleasure of being in her uplifting presence on two occasions - during the last two ISPA conferences…one in Dallas and one last year in Orlando.  She lights up a room and touches your heart and mind in a way that only she can do.  I have been so blessed to be introduced to some amazing women in the last few years and Dr. Berry is one that truly touches and re-ignites the passion of my soul.

I’ve included the information from the Red Mountain Spa site about her upcoming event as well as her bio.  Happy Mother’s Day!   www.redmountainspa.com

with Dr. Bertice Berry  

Sociologist, and award winning lecturer Bertice Berry , Ph.D., is one of the most sought after lecturers in the country. She combines her skills as a sociologist and researcher, and with her ability to make her audiences think and laugh at the same time. She is the best selling author of the inspirational memoir, I’m On My Way, But Your Foot Is On My Head, four novels and two humor books.

Berry who believes that no one is fulfilled doing only one thing, combines her love of art and her spirit for community activism into an art gallery she Co-owns. All proceeds from the gallery go to families in need. She is most proud of becoming an instant mother to her five adopted children. “They really are my blessing in disguise,” Berry says, “I’m just waiting for them to take the costumes off.”

You’ll laugh, you’ll feel, you’ll be inspired, and one thing is for certain— you’ll leave much differently than you came.

Saturday, May 10- Finding Your Purpose  8 pm

Sunday, May 11-  Mother’s Day Message 8 pm

Just wanted to let you know about a new promotion at Canyon Ranch in Tucson for Mother’s Day weekend…

A few days ago I mentioned the announcement that Lake Austin Spa Resort is now the #1 Destinaton Spa according to the readers of Conde Nast (http://www.concierge.com/cntraveler/) Traveler (April 2008 issue).  They scored high for both treatments and programs as well as service.  It was also recognized for its superior cuisine and setting - and as a recent guest I do have to add that the lake setting is unique and was one of my favorite features.  With a casual and serene feel, Lake Austin Spa Resort is one to watch and one to visit!  It has moved up in the rankings over the last few years with the #2 spot in ‘07 and now #1 in ‘08.  Spa goers are the voters, and this is a great accomplishment for this intimate resort.  With only 40 rooms, it is like being at your best friend’s lake house with all the benefits of a world class spa. 

And, the news gets better.    

I just found out that there are some great promotions going on at Lake Austin Spa Resort, with great savings, so, here are the details:  If you travel during the following weeks, you can enjoy a savings of 30% based on the higher level room type (Premier) and the dates include June 8-16; July 1 - 7; Aug. 24 - 31; Sept. 1 - 7; and Oct. 27 - Nov. 3. (www.lakeaustin.com).   With an eye on specials, this is about the best one I’ve seen for Lake Austin Spa Resort!

Whether you’re looking for a girlfriend getaway, the Culinary Experience™,  a weekend with mom (or daughter) or some time to rejuvenate and find your authentic self, there’s something for all. 

Writer’s tip:  On my last visit I enjoyed an amazing service called Texas Starry Night…..I loved it and it’s one of their signature treatments - so easy to see why.   It all began with a very relaxing lavender oil massage - you’ll see that lavender is also used in the products you’ll receive in your room - and then after the massage I was wrapped for about 10 minutes (my skin felt great!) - I also received an herbal heat pack on my stomach and an herbal eye pillow for an even deeper state of relaxation.  I would have slept on the massage table if I could have….zzzzzzzzzzzzz.  Getting it prior to going to sleep is what I recommend. 

What a beautful spring day we’re enjoying on the east coast today…a great day to be outside to balance out the day.

Speaking of Balance (www.balancemagazine.com), have you seen the latest issue?  As the travel editor of Balance Magazine I have to say that this is one of my favorite issues and I love that we have Virginia Madsen on our cover.  http://www.keepthewisdom.com/r……_sheet.pdf

Even more exciting (okay, for me) is that you’ll see my review of both Lake Austin Spa Resort and the Hyatt Chesapeake Bay in this issue.  Congratulations are in order as well for Lake Austin Spa Resort, which was just designated the #1 Destination Spa by Conde Nast Traveler (www.lakeaustin.com).  And, Spring is one of the best times for a visit to this spa resort - flowers are in bloom, special stay offers and the Culinary Experience are just a few reasons.   And, if you don’t have plans for mother’s day yet then you may want to consider a stay (May 5 - 11 is Mother/Daughter Week).   As you’ll see in the article (see link below), the Hyatt Chesapeake Bay is another wonderful destination to consider, especially if you’re on the east coast.  They’ve recently introduced a new signature treatment called The Lemon Cucumber Mint Escape - it’s a 90 minute service including a body scrub and wrap and the lemon is truly uplifting.  More to come in a future blog on both of these resorts.

So, first things first.  Grab a cup of green tea and take a look at the current issue of Balance http://www.balancemagazine.com……tIssue.pdf

You’ll want to read it from cover to cover and while you’re glancing through, remember to stop by page 32 for the Virginia Madsen interview and pages 58-59 for the Lake Austin Spa Resort and Hyatt Chesapeake Bay - Eastern Shore review. 

If you’re planning on being in the South Florida area (or if you live in Florida), consider going to the 4th Annual Work-Life Balance conference on Wednesday, April 23.  You can find more details at www.balancemagazine.com.  Space is limited for this conference as we’re only a few weeks away.  Keynote speakers include Naomi Judd, five-time Grammy winner; Bonnie St. John, author and Paralympics downhill skier; and inspirational speaker and author Janet Bray Attwood.   www.balancemagazine.com

Enjoy the day and this time of year for renewal.  What’s blooming in your life? 

Spa News!  

Do you remember the scene in the Wizard of Oz when it went from black and white to color?  That’s one way to describe how life can change when you enter a destination spa, a place like Golden Door in Escondido, CA.  Imagine taking steps through their ‘golden door’ to embark on your journey to restoring your well-being while enjoying one of the most luxurious destination spas in the country.   An Asian influence offers a quiet sanctuary to 40  guests per week who want to focus on healthier habits designed to balance their body, mind and spirit.  Classes included yoga, pilates, and spinning as well as weight training and aerobic gyms.  A full service spa and salon to pamper and nourish.  Healthy and delicious gourmet cuisine and comfortable accommodations to take care of your every need.  And, so much more! www.goldendoor.com

And now there are options for a shorter stay!

I receive a good number of calls and requests for a shorter stay at the original Golden Door in Escondido, CA and I would like to share some news with you.  There are now ‘Spa Interludes’ for those of you who prefer a shorter 3- or 4-night stay.   These sessions give you all the benefits of a Golden Door (www.goldendoor.com) retreat….time for you to re-commit to a healthier lifestyle.  The dates for these sessions include: 

• 3-Day Spa Interlude (Sunday thru’ Wednesday), July 6, July 13, August 10, August 17, and December 7
• 4-Day Spa Interlude (Wednesday thru’ Sunday), July 9, July 16, August 13, August 20, and December 10

In addition, there are also specials during other weeks including:

Memorial Day Week, May 25 to June 1, 2008.

Thanksgiving Coed Week, November 23 - 30, 2008.

New Year’s Week, December 28, 2008 - January 4, 2009. 

http://www.spa-vacation-expert……nDoor.html