Wellness is Worth the Trip
Words by Katy Chadwell
No matter how indulgent it may seem, self-care is essential to maintaining balance. While it can be a challenge to carve out time on a daily basis, travel offers the opportunity to seek out experiences and hit reset.
It can be hard to prioritize self-care, especially for ones who often find themselves juggling multiple responsibilities. When overwhelmed and overcommitted, self-care is often the first thing to go. Even when squeezing in regular meditation, the body craves a change of scenery and pace. When given the chance to experience something out of the ordinary, take advantage of it. Wellness offerings are on the rise as hotels focus on helping guests reconnect with themselves, others and the world around them.
Unplug
Many people are so connected that it can be difficult, even anxiety laden, to unplug. Making a point to do just that can help the brain to mentally recharge. Enjoy a digital detox by leaving the iPad at home and the cell phone in the hotel room to fully experience solitude while exploring the views. Seek out a location where nature takes center stage and enjoy the benefits of being outdoors. This time the suggested destination is Treebones Resort in Big Sur, California. Good luck finding a cell signal amongst the redwoods. Relax with hiking and yoga overlooking the Pacific instead.
Focus on Fitness
Making time to stay in shape while traveling is a great way to feel happier and healthier. Knowing that many travelers seek opportunities to be active on vacation, hotels are offering increased wellness options. Suggested destination to do just that is Chileno Bay Resort in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Not only do they have a full gym and trainers, but a menu of small group classes such as Pilates and cycling are also available. Don’t miss the water spin class in the pool! It’s also located on a pristine swimmable beach, a rarity in Baja, so there are plenty of water sports available as well.
Get Creative
There’s nothing like getting those creative juices flowing to help ease the mind. Making art can be a relaxing way to escape the ordinary and focus on the task at hand, similar to meditation. Ojai Valley Inn in Ojai, California (85 miles northwest of Los Angeles) has long been a haven for those seeking relaxation. They have an Artist’s Cottage where guests may drop in for Open Studio or attend a class with a local artist. Anyone can try their hand at paper marbling, ceramics painting, or candle making. (Bonus: Book through Century Travel and receive $100 resort credit and daily breakfast for two.)
When choosing to prioritize self and health, a ripple effect of feeling focused can be realized. Many have coveted vacation days each year, so elect to spend that precious time intentionally investing in self-care and come back refreshed, ready to take on new challenges.
Contact
Katy Chadwell is a member of the team at Austin-based Century Travel and would welcome the opportunity to help you plan your next vacation! Contact her at katy@century-tvl.com, and let her take the stress out of planning your next vacation!
