It’s the sweet summertime and with it comes a sense of relaxed living, new experiences and adventures. I like the idea of going to a spa as nowadays a ’spa’ encompasses so much more than getting a massage or facial, it’s about living a healthier lifestyle…what you eat, how you sleep, your fitness and spirituality.

I thought I’d include an overview of a spa original…….sit back, relax and enjoy this armchair journey with me as we take a look at Rancho la Puerta in Tecate, Mexico (www.rancholapuerta.com)

Rancho la Puerta was founded in 1940 by Edward and Deborah Szekely and is located south of San Diego, California in Tecate, Mexico. It is the original destination fitness resort and spa and has offered a life changing experience for thousands for over 65 years. Every week, over 100 guests come together to hike, breathe, relax and go beyond their boundaries. Guests come to know one another, share experiences and enjoy a week of healthy vegetarian cuisine, physical activity and mindful moments.

There are many opportunities to contemplate life including walking in the full size replica of the ancient labyrinth as found in Chartres Cathedral in France. My personal experience of walking the labyrinth led me to think about how the many turns we come upon in our own lives lead us to new opportunities and that it’s more about the journey than the destination. This truly was a lesson in being in the moment and focusing on each step and breath.

Rancho la Puerta offers an abundance of fitness classes, hiking opportunities for the beginner to advanced (my personal favorite is the organic garden breakfast hike), cooking classes, lectures and plenty of options for pampering in their health centers. Different people come to the Ranch for different reasons, all of which have meaning. Some come for the fitness opportunities, others to relax and rejuvenate and others for healing.

The Ranch has stayed true to its’ core. Fitness is the basis of a week at the Ranch balanced with relaxation, healthy eating and reflection. There is much that lures guests to Rancho la Puerta including Mount Kuchumaa, which Native Americans consider a sacred place. And it is a sacred place. I’m inspired and transformed from my time at the Ranch.

Summer 2008 Happenings:

July:
Nia® Week
Writing Workshop
Sensuality & Sexual Health
Ballet Week

August:
Authentic Ashram Yoga Study
Visiting teachers for Cooking Classes at La Cocina Que Canta
Pilates Week

September:
Labyrinth Week
Self Expression through Digital Photography
Yoga and Ayurveda

More information at: www.rancholapuerta.com