A couple of months ago (June), Spa Week and Jillian Michaels (celebrity fitness expert), partnered to give one winner a wellness retreat at the famous Golden Door Spa in Escondido, CA.

Because of the success of this last effort another opportunity is being presented and I hope you’ll consider taking action as this health-focused giveaway can be life changing in so many ways.  For instance, obesity is one of the leading causes of preventable death in the United States and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about one third of adults are obese.  Resources such as fitness centers, nutritionists and personal trainers are key to conquering this growing epidemic, however  aren’t always an affordable option.   And that is why Spa Week has partnered with Joy Bauer,  the TODAY show’s resident nutritionist and diet expert, to kick-start a new, healthy lifestyle for one deserving winner by entering the Fast Track to Health Giveaway.

“Millions of people tune in to watch Joy Bauer on the Today show and The Biggest Loser to get inspired and motivate their own fitness goals, so it is extremely rewarding to host such a life-changing giveaway on SpaWeek.com,” said Spa Week Media Group CEO and President Cheryl Reid.

Take Action:
Now through September 11th, visitors to SpaWeek.com can enter for a chance to win a seven day, six night stay for two at The Biggest Loser Resort at Fitness Ridge in Malibu, CA to delve into the rigorous fitness and weight loss regime.    This powerful weight-loss journey offers  daily fitness and exercise activities, healthy low calorie meals, relaxing spa services, educational lectures and a private cooking class with the resort’s on-site executive chef.   One important key to sustaining weight loss and continuing on the path of wellness will be to stay on track upon returning home, so the winner will also receive a take-home package including Joy’s bestselling book, Food Cures, a personalized nutritional plan designed by Joy, and $175 in SpaWeek Gift Cards.

Good luck!

Resources:
SpaWeek
Biggest Loser Resort

Photo credit: Biggest Loser Resort, Malibu, CA

For instance, to protect your skin, SkinCeutical’s Sheer Physical UV Defense SPF 50® is one to consider ($30 retail). And,  Jennifer Lopez is a fan of the line and uses the paraben-free mattifying fluid to protect her skin from damaging UV rays.

Glee’s Naya Rivera is a fan of Skin 2 Skin Care products (as is Ryan Seacrest) and two that are staples of Hollywood makeup artists include their Anti-Sagging Renewal Serum ($65 retail), which promotes collagen growth and the Revitalizing Eye Gel ($42 retail).  The serum promotes collagen production while the eye gel reduces puffiness and brightens dark circles with the help of anti-oxidants.

For my California readers and fans of Spa Montage Beverly Hills, consider the Ultimate Pre-Red Carpet Spa Experience (now through March for $1050*).  This package includes four treatments and products to take home to continue your camera ready experience. You’ll enjoy an anti-aging facial using oxygen serums to firm and contour, body sculpting therapy to target tummies and thighs, a beautiful back and arms facial to get glowing skin in those low cut dresses and an Elements of Earth Wrap to draw out impurities.

* It’s recommended to book treatments over the course of two to three days.

Thank you to the International SPA Association for the latest data and information on these products.

To your journey!

Take a look at a few affordable solutions that our favorite celebrities enjoy as well as some insight from the International Spa Association.   For instance, according to the ISPA 2010 U.S. Spa Industry Study, skin care products are sold in 97 percent of all spas and many average $43 retail.  Chances are that your favorite spa has some of these.  Over the next few days I’ll be including more ideas so stay in touch and remember to be mindful and enjoy every moment of your experience.

Let’s begin with the two ‘must have’ items from Skin Authority.  The Wrinkle Reversing Serum ($125) instantly plumps and the Dramatic Eye Lift ($120) will get you camera ready as well.  Stars including Samantha Brown, Ellen K and Kevin Sorbo love the line.

Eminence Organics fans like Alicia Silverstone and Katherine Heigl may consider the Cinnamon Kiss Plumper ($26 retail) and you’ll like the tingle of the natural ingredient of cinnamon, which plumps your lips.  Then there’s the Lime Stimulating Masque ($64 retail) to revitalize your complexion while improving blemish prone areas due to phytohormones and vitamins found in the lime.

Just like Jessica Simpson, I’m also a fan of Jurlique’s Rosewater Balancing Mist ($21 retail). 
Marshmallow, rose and grapefruit work together to help balance your skin and the scent is so fragrant.

And Murad – they sent A-list stars nominated for an Oscar and a Golden Globe this year like Natalie Portman, Annette Bening and Nicole Kidman their Award-Season Survival Kit.   It includes the Renewing Cleansing Cream ($35) to exfoliate, the Hyro-Dynamic Ultimate Moisture ($65) to keep your skin glowing all night and the Sleep Reform Dietary Supplements ($49.50) to help encourage sleep while improving the cellular renewal process.

Stop by soon for more celebrity-inspired spa product ideas.
Thank you to the International SPA Association for the latest data and information on these products.

About International SPA Association
ISPA is recognized worldwide as the leading professional organization and voice of the spa industry. Founded in 1991, ISPA advances the spa industry by providing invaluable educational and networking opportunities, promoting the value of the spa experience and speaking as the authoritative voice to foster professionalism and growth.

Montage Spa

It’s the end of August, however it doesn’t mean the summer is over.  If you’re getting the kids ready for school or thinking about another getaway before that easy going summer feeling fades away, there are plenty of options still available.  One end-of-summer escape is at the nearly two year old Montage Beverly Hills.  Don’t let the 90210 zip code fool you as there are options available that offer a great value and the beauty of this Spanish Colonial and Mediterranean style resort is captivating.

If you’re in California, it may become your new ‘go-to’ spa resort to relax, recharge and reflect, especially with the spa’s wellness program and array of classes including Pilates, Yoga, Cardio and Strength.

Montage Beverly Hills is in the heart of Beverly Hills and close to famous Rodeo Drive and their luxury shops and outstanding dining options.   Not to be missed though are the dining options at Montage including The Conservatory Grill and Lobby Lounge (thinking about a little jazz and a glass of Donatiello’s Russian River Valley Pinot Noir while socializing (in person) with some friends).  And, speaking of wine, their list is quite extensive and they offer other Napa area favorites including chardonnay from the Darioush Winery and a cabernet from Shafer Winery.

Getting back to the spa.    Sometimes a one day getaway is all you need to get back on track to your path to wellness and their relaxing and nurturing ‘Day of Indulgence‘ may be the answer for you.  This option is valid from Monday through Thursday at $225 per person and includes:  Full-day access to Spa Montage facilities, a 60-minute massage or facial of your choice, Personalized fitness class in one of the private movement studios, Poolside lunch at The Conservatory Grill, and Access to the rooftop pool at Montage Beverly Hills (a great spot with amazing views of the Hollywood Hills).  (Valid through Dec. 30, 2010)

By the way, the 20,000 square-foot-spa is a two-story oasis focused on well-being and also has a co-ed Mineral Pool and state of the art fitness center.

Another option that goes beyond the summer is the Overnight Spa Escape and this package includes:  Accommodations for one-night at Montage Beverly Hills,  Two 60-minute spa treatments of choice at Spa Montage,  Daily continental breakfast for two, served in the privacy of your own room, or at one of the restaurants of Montage Beverly Hills,  (Rate of $775 per night and available through 12/30/10.)

Montage Beverly Hills, a mixed use residential/hotel, is just under two years old (opened in November 2008) and is the first hotel in Southern California to be awarded (April 2009)  Gold Level Certification under the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED (Leadership Energy and Environmental Design).

For more details on this beautiful luxury resort and spa, visit www.montagebeverlyhills.com.

Co-ed Mineral Pool, Spa Montage
Photo Credit:  Scott Frances

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

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.