Mind Over Fat Matters. An Interview with Dr. Lavinia Rodriguez
Friday, July 23rd, 2010 | Destination Spas, Weight Loss, healthy living, wellness | No Comments
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 Getaway to Two Bunch Palms
Tuesday, July 13th, 2010 | California Spas, Mineral Springs, wellness | No Comments
Ah, to just be! That’s what I want for a summer getaway and mindful adventure. How about you?
With the number of spa resorts in the U.S., there’s something for everyone and one in particular, Two Bunch Palms, is offering another summer promotion. This adults-only sanctuary is offering rooms starting at $200 per night, which also includes a $200 Spa Credit for a 60- or 90-minute treatment and check-in is offered at 2p vs the usual 4p. This offer is valid from July 19 – Sept. 30 and other restrictions apply. Oh, this particular promotion is valid for bookings made by this Friday (7/16).
Two Bunch Palms is referred to as ‘Sacred Ground,’ by Native American Indian Tribes and for very good reason as there are healing mineral-rich waters that flow into their grotto and one of the most relaxing and rejuvenating things you can do at Two Bunch Palms is spend time in one of the two grotto pools.
Summer is a great time to relax and reconnect with nature and yourself. This expansive resort offers quiet and peaceful surroundings with stunning mountain views and waterfalls. Plenty of activities are available including hiking, mud baths, Watsu pools and more. And you’ll of course want to make note of the e “Two Bunches of Palms” while on property.
For more information on the new summer promotion and this resort, visit www.TwoBunchPalms.com
Enjoy the summer and visit MindfulAdventures.com often for more information on healthy spa getaways, travel, spa and wellness.
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!
Mindful Music – The Music of the GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS
Thursday, April 8th, 2010 | Adventure, Healing Music, healthy living | No Comments
I love music and when I’m working and writing I tend to listen to instrumental music with a relaxing and inspirational vibe, something like you’d listen to in a spa. When I first heard this CD by Emmy award-winning composer, Gary Remal Malkin, it touched me on so many levels and I have to say that it is one of the most beautiful works I’ve heard. It evoked feelings of sorrow to joy to gratitude to that of purpose. The music offers an inspiring mix that could change your day from that of doubt to determination and faith. That’s a bold statement, I know, however it’s how I feel and that’s the point – it touches the depths of your soul and unleashes so many feelings. Although all of the selections are amazing, some of the tracks capture your attention even when you’re deep in thought or your work.
“It evoked feelings of sorrow to joy to gratitude to that of purpose. The music offers an inspiring mix that could change your day from that of doubt to determination and faith.”
The music tugs at your heart and grabs your attention, especially track #5, A Time Ago. It draws you in to a simpler time and touches your soul to a point that you must stop what you’re doing, close your eyes and feel the music even more deeply. The piano is so beautiful in this piece. As you listen to this track, you may connect or reconnect to ‘A Time Ago’ in your own life.
Trail of Tears, track #7, is another favorite due to the flute and sounds of nature in the background. So many visuals come to mind such as what this could mean in the mountains or even the desert, the animals and perhaps those that blazed trails years ago in the Great Smoky Mountains. The thunder, the storm, and the ghostlike sounds of this track make it so recognizable and when the next layer of instrumentation blends in, it takes the listener to their next level allowing us to connect to our authentic self.
Each track energizes me, inspires me or allows me to go back to another time and reflect. One other track to note is #11, The Courage to Dream. I always know when this one comes on as it pulls on my heart strings and I’m flooded with the memories that have brought me to my current state of being. As the music continues, it reminds me of the story of my heart and all the dreams yet to be fulfilled. The courage to get through past challenges and the faith to continue searching; it’s like a door opening and leading you to a new beginning. Then, toward the end of the track as the music builds, there’s a vision of a cowboy returning to his ranch or perhaps a loved one returning home.
The entire body of work on this CD is moving and just beautiful. It has the power to move you from where you are to where you want to be: body, mind and soul. It can spark creativity and inspire the listener in so many ways.
– Donna Adinolfi
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!
Have You Laughed Today?
Tuesday, February 16th, 2010 | healthy living | No Comments
We’ve all heard the saying that “laughter is the best medicine,” and we can pretty much agree that we feel better when we laugh. Afterall, it’s pretty difficult to be upset and angry when you’re laughing! We feel lighter and laughing everyday is something we can do for our health. It helps relieve tension and uplifts us. And, while I’d love to be at my favorite spa or traveling; laughter and doing something to make me smile is the next best way to just ‘let go.’ I’m sure you can add to the many other reasons why laughter is beneficial to your own well-being.
As I was finding myself in need of a laugh today to help manage some of the stress I was carrying around, I took a few minutes and looked over one of my favorite sites. SimpleTruths.com offers inspirational books and DVDs to uplift and inspire and while looking today I came across a cute little book that comes with a short movie/DVD and beautiful music.
It’s called ‘Laugher is an Instant Vacation’ and it is quite cute, so if you want to take a minute, give yourself the gift of laughter and enjoy a few moments ‘away’ on your own instant vacation!
A laugh a day (or several laughs) can be beneficial. Have you laughed yet?
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