Destination Spa Vacations

More from my Week at The Oaks at Ojai...

The Oaks at Ojai draws a very loyal and long-term guest. During my week there, I was able to meet many great people who had been coming for years and viewed the Oaks as part of their family. Many shared wonderful stories of weight loss and health. One guest visits at least four times each year so she can stay on track and not gain back any of the 60 lbs the Oaks helped her lose. She loves the feeling of returning to a comfortable place and being greeted by people who know and love her.

I was very happy to see how active Oaks' founder Sheila Cluff (pictured with me) is with the spa. Sheila is the 75-year old mother of four and grandmother of four who lives the lifestyle she teaches. A former star and host of her own fitness talk shows on NBC and KABC, Cluff began her career as a Sonja Henie professional figure skater. She introduced “Cardiovascular Dance” to the world in the l950’s which today is known simply as “aerobics”.

At the Oaks, she continues to teach fitness classes, lead walks and share educational information to the attending guests.  I participated in her morning walks, stretch classes and art tours and honestly, had a hard time keeping up.  Her energy and positive attitude is infectious and encourages me to take the right steps so I can age with grace, beauty and strength.

All in All, I had a fabulous week and am leaving feeling inspired, detoxed and ready to dance! On to the next amazing Destination Spa, Debra

My Week at The Oaks at Ojai...

Dancing my heart out, hearing amazing stories and being inspired by fitness goddess Sheila Cluff (pictured) are just a few of the memories I carry from my week at The Oaks at Ojai.

Nestled in the beautiful Ojai Valley of California I arrived late in the evening and was greeted by Christine the Executive Chef with a hot and healthy meal. Being totally honest, I had been nervous about the 1,200 calorie diet plan most guests adhere to. My concerns were immediately put to rest when I saw the dinner waiting for me (pictured). Not only was it flavorful and delicious, but it was a lot of food for only 350 calories. In fact, for the entire week I felt completely satisfied and didn’t miss anything. And…I never snuck down the road to the tamale stand to gobble up some contraband food!

Looking at the weekly schedule, I was very excited by the variety of dance classes offered. For a long time I have wanted to take some fitness dance classes, but shied away from trying them because I was having visions of the class being filled with perfect J. Lo Barbie dolls who knew every dance move. To my relief, the classes were filled with beginners like me.

Starting out with a cardio dance class, taught by the amazing Elizabeth, I quickly realized that not only was I having a blast, I was sweating a lot and burning some serious calories. (Me pictured post-dance). Even when I woke up in the middle of the night with shooting pain in my hips, I didn’t care because I was so excited my hips could still move after a decade or so of sleeping. Yay, they woke up! I think I’ll be finding a Zumba class when I get home.

To be continued... Debra

More from my week at Rancho La Puerta...

And the food at the Rancho La Puerta … oh my. I quickly realized that simple is often better. Meal after meal, I continued to be amazed at how incredible the food tasted and how close to the Earth they kept the meals (there is little added that is not natural.) 

Herbs and spices easily replace all the artificial flavors, sweeteners & salts we so eagerly add to our own cooking. While seafood was served occasionally, we relied primarily on a fruit and vegetable diet. I didn’t feel like I missed a thing.  

The Ranch also afforded me the opportunity to create space within my day to read, reflect and journal. I had set the intention to go inward and spend time waiting for some moments of clarity to naturally arise.  By the third day I was seeing things that are masked within my often busy life. I discovered being alone is actually cool, that I do not have to label and categorize everything in my life in order to understand it and that sometimes it is ok to wait for the dust to settle before making decisions. I found a place of deep appreciation not only for where I am at in my life, but for all the people who have shown up to share their love with me over the past couple years.  

Ending on a note of gratitude, I am extremely grateful for being in a position to visit this place of miracles and I eagerly await my next journey here.

Hasta que nos volvamos a encontrar, Debra

My Week at Rancho La Puerta...

Discovering a hidden artist begging to come out, acknowledging the introvert in me and loving the amazing low-fat, low-sugar and low-salt meals straight from the Organic gardens are just a few of the highlights from my week at Rancho La Puerta. Edmond and Deborah Szekely created this beautiful sanctuary in 1940 with the intention to transform their guests’ understanding of their role in the care and feeding of their bodies, and to appreciate and protect nature.

As I eagerly counted the minutes until I arrived, I set my intentions for the week, including a strong desire to not over-schedule so there would be opportunity to go inward and find insights on current life situations. I also wanted to spend time purposefully visualizing what the second half of my life could be like. With about 50 exciting classes offered each day, this was a little challenging, but I held true to my commitment.

The magnificent property rests on 3,000 acres, much of which is a nature preserve and I often found myself walking property paths to find hidden landscaping treasures and sculptures. One of my favorite spots to hang out after a class was my back patio. There was an amazing view of the mountain and a solitary tree at the top crest. As I gazed upon the tree and let my mind clear, many personal insights unfolded.

More insights unfolded during Jose’s sculpting class. This is where I met my artist within. I’ve always had a passing interest in sketching, but have never taken the time to explore anything beyond an introductory class. Deciding to take the sculpting class with Jose’ (a fabulous sculptor and teacher), I found myself completely immersed in creating a woman’s head from the clay. When she was done, I named her Free.

Hmmm, maybe there are some art classes in my home town. To be continued.... Debra

Healthy Recipe - Marinated Shrimp on Rosemary Brochettes - Rancho La Puerta

Hola! My week at Rancho La Puerta is amazing! I have eaten some of the most flavorful, creative and healthy dishes in my 40+ years. One of the main reasons the food at the Ranch is so fresh is the guy pictured here: Salvador, the Chief of Organic Gardens.

I have not tried the Marinated Shrimp yet, though hope to do so before I leave in a few days. Enjoy!

Marinated Shrimp on Rosemary Brochettes

• 6 4-inch sprigs of fresh rosemary
• 18 large shrimp (either 12 OR 16 shrimp to the pound), shelled and de-veined

Marinade:

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium shallot, medium dice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano or 1 teaspoon dried
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil or 1 teaspoon dried
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or 1/3 teaspoon dried
• 1-2 teaspoons paprika
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Grated zest from 1 lemon or lime

1. Trim rosemary leaves from sprigs, leaving the top 1-inch intact.
2. In a baking sheet, mix marinade ingredients. Place cleaned shrimp in the pan and coat all sides with the marinade.
3. Place 3 shrimp on each rosemary skewer.
4. Return skewers to the baking tray. Cover and refrigerate at least 1/2 hour to allow flavors to meld.
5. To cook, place skewers on a flat grill or in a large pan sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Cook shrimp over medium heat for 2 – 3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

My Week at Rancho La Puerta

Hello everyone from beautiful Rancho La Puerta! I arrived on Saturday and am thoroughly enjoying every minute at this amazing Destination Spa. As you'll see, I set 10 intentions when I arrived at the Ranch. "Be authentic, bring myself to the present moment more, reflect on the first half of my life"... yes, gang, I am being quite deep!

I'm halfway though my week and I am happy to report that those intentions are the perfect pairing for this experience. I'm having plenty of alone time in my casita at night, coupled with lively interactions during dinner and plenty of amazing classes with my fellow spa-goers throughout the day. I'm learning a lot about myself on this Journey into Wellbeing.

Take a glance at my list (above) and then I hope you'll think about your intentions for 2012. I'd love to hear what you are planning. In the meantime, I'm off to participate in a few of the 50 or so amazing classes at Rancho La Puerta... or maybe I'll just lie in a hammock and reflect some more! From a happy place, Debra

Healthy Recipe - Red Bell Pepper Hummus - Canyon Ranch

The holidays are over and now the healthy living resumes! Hummus is one of my favorite healthy treats for a snack, app or party. This recipe from Canyon Ranch in Arizona is heavy on the Red Bell Pepper - tasty and good for you.

Red Bell Pepper Hummus

• 1 15-ounce can garbanzo beans, drained
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2 teaspoons sesame tahini
• 1 small red bell pepper, roasted, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh garlic

Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor and puree until smooth.

Makes 8 (1/4-cup) servings, each containing approximately: 90 calories, 11 gm. carbohydrate, 4 gm. fat, 0 mg. cholesterol, 4 gm. protein, 299 mg. sodium, 3 gm. fiber

Energize Your Get Up and Go in 2012

Worn out and weary from ringing in a New Year? It seemed that every magazine I picked up over the holidays addressed how a lack of energy is becoming an epidemic problem. I agree and am tired of feeling drained. To take action, this Saturday I'm embarking on a transformational journey that will energize me for years to come. I'll spend three weeks visiting some of the best known Destination Spas: Rancho La Puerta in Mexico, The Oaks at Ojai in Calif., and Red Mountain in Utah.

To say I'm excited is an understatement. I plan to return home feeling lighter in body and spirit, with some newly-found energy to help me have a bold 2012. You are invited to share the lessons learned on the journey. I'll blog right here as well as sharing photos on Facebook (DestinationSpaVacations) and Twitter (@DestinationSpa).

In the meantime, let's begin to put an energized pep in your step for 2012:

- Start the year with a full medical assessment to eliminate medical concerns. Issues with your thyroid and hormones, as well as intestinal disorders can zap your zest.

- Take your vitamins. Find a high-quality, natural, non-chemical multi-vitamin and consider adding in Omega 3 and a probiotic.

- Incorporate natural movement. Stand up and stretch several times during the day, take the stairs, and use half of your lunch break to move around.

- Reduce drama. Nothing can zap our strength quicker than holding onto anger and allowing drama to run havoc.

- Watch caffeine and sugar intake. Replace half the sugar you use in tea and coffee with stevia, an all-natural herbal sweetener.

Be watching for updates and tips from my journey, Debra

Healthy Recipe - Ginger Baked Pears - The Oaks at Ojai

Had your fill of candy, peppermint and cake this week? This recipe from The Oaks at Ojai appeals to your sweet tooth without adding calories or guilt. Sounds like the perfect way to welcome a New Year! Happy holidays everyone.

GINGER BAKED PEARS (8 servings)

• 4 pears, halved and pitted
• 4 T. apple juice concentrate
• 4 teaspoon candied ginger root, minced
• ¼ c. water

1. Preheat oven to 350. Put apple juice concentrate, water and ginger in a small sauce pan and heat until liquified.            
2. Using a lemon zester, carve a few decorative strips from the pear skin.
3. Place pear cut-side-down in a baking dish, drizzle juice over pears and cover with aluminum foil.
4. Place baking pan in oven and poach for about ½ hour until pears are soft, but not mushy.
5. Remove pears to serving dishes or platter and chill.
6. Place pan juices back into the saucepan and cook, uncovered for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened. 
7. Spoon glaze over pears and serve. Garnish with fresh berries if desired.

50 calories per serving

 

 

A Spa Break Before You Head Into 2012

The presents are open, the leftovers are hanging around (sadly) and it’s nearly time to pop the champagne for 2012. How do you feel on this week between Christmas and the New Year?

I feel accomplished and tired. 2011 included sending my son to the Navy, my daughter to college, selling a home in Kentucky and moving to Florida. I survived the worst tornado we have ever seen and am preparing for a journey of a lifetime.  For me, this is a time to pause and reflect on where I’ve been and how I will purposefully pave my path to a vibrant future. So, for now I think I will slow down and pamper myself and my partner Eric.

Since there’s no better place for real relaxation than a Destination Spa, I turned to Myrna Beardshear of Utah’s Red Mountain Spa for advice. “When we get in the habit of doing things graciously for ourselves we start to develop a romantic life that we can share with others. Take time each day to tell yourself that you're special and that you love yourself. Smile, listen to your own voice and think good thoughts,” urges Beardshear.

While you have some time off this week (or at least I hope you do!), try a few of Myrna’s suggestions:

• If you like to exercise, spray the room with an invigorating aromatherapy spritz before you start. Instead of your old exercise clothes, invest in something new. Don't just jump into the shower afterwards. Take time to have a relaxing bubble bath and rest while wrapped in a luxurious terry robe.
• Plan a romantic evening. Tuck an invitation/note into your partner’s pocket, scented with your favorite fragrance. If you have kids, make arrangements to have to them stay overnight with family or friends;
• Candles, low lights, music that you both enjoy, and a comfy place to snuggle are essential;
• Take time to make up a menu of romantic food that can be prepared ahead of time. Finger foods are often fun to share.
• Fresh flowers spread love. Try: Roses - harmonious and patient love; Lavender - spiritual love, true love and romantic; and Spider Lily - love and peace

What a happy way to wrap up 2011! Debra

 

Healthy Recipe - Biscotti - Canyon Ranch

House filled with goodies? I bet you don't have anything as tasty and healthy as this Biscotti in your kitchen right now. Invite the kiddos to join you in making a holiday treat from Canyon Ranch. Enjoy the holidays!

Biscotti (20 servings)

• 1 small egg
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon grated orange peel
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon pure almond extract
• 1/4 cup oat flour
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch sea salt
• 2 tablespoons chopped hazelnuts
• 2 tablespoons chopped almonds

1. Preheat oven to 325°. Lightly coat a cookie sheet with canola oil.
2. In a medium bowl, combine egg, brown sugar, orange peel and extracts. In another bowl, combine oat flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt and nuts. (To make oat flour, place rolled oats in a food processor bowl and pulse until oats are the texture of flour.) Add dry mixture to wet mixture and mix well.
3. Form into a 6- to 8-inch log and place on cookie sheet. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. With a serrated knife, slice into 1/4-inch cookies while still warm.
5. Place slices on cookie sheet close together and bake for 10 to 15 more minutes, or until crisp.

Eash serving contains approximately: 40 calories, 6 gm. carbohydrate, 1 gm. fat, 9 mg. cholesterol, 1 gm. protein, 13 mg. sodium, Trace fiber