During the most recent holiday season, amongst the hubbub of last minute gift shopping, cookie baking and frantic nonstop gift wrapping, I found myself strongly wanting and needing to slow down, breathe deeply and embrace the magic and joy of this special time of year.
So for a short respite, my hubby and I dashed out of the city for a quick trip to the Murrieta Hot Springs resort. Less than a two-hour drive from Los Angeles, we arrived to find a property filled with bubbling creeks and a hillside chock full of dozens of natural geothermal hot pools of varying temperature to soak and relax in day and night. Cold plunges, saunas, full size swimming pools, a bathhouse and full spa services were all available to explore and enjoy.
The resort is quite expansive, so we found lots of quiet places to experience the hot pools and soak in the healing benefits of the water. There were single spots and small pools set aside exclusive to resort guests or folks enjoying a spa service which made it easy to create some serene and private time. My husband loves a large, heated pool and took great pleasure in his daily swim. We indulged in massages and facials –all were rejuvenating and performed by a warm and competent, professional.
I was particularly impressed with the huge variety of wellness activities offered, daily aqua yoga and sound bath experiences, aromatherapy saunas, detox mud treatment, vitality plunges and even a gratitude ceremony.
Our first night at the resort we had an incredible meal at Talia’s Kitchen, the farm-to-table restaurant located on the property. This meal was a delicious surprise of locally sourced, top-quality dishes. My favorite was the homemade focaccia starter served with a whipped ricotta dip, topped with fresh beets, persimmons and radishes. I had to compliment the chef personally after such an amazing and creative dinner.
Time off the clock and away from the mounting anticipation of holiday parties and the soon to arrive guests was a resourceful way to prepare for the commotion of a busy season. Just these few days of rest allowed me the space to be mindful of those very personal priorities- to stay grounded and conscious and gratefully present.
Quiet moments of yoga and self-reflection renews my ability to locate a source inside of me that moves and motivates me to be my best self and show up for others in the way I know is best for them and me. The rejuvenating days at the resort put me in a perfect appreciative space for the special friends and family gatherings that was fast approaching.
The hot spring soaks were a perfect antidote to the holiday chaos, calming the body, mind and spirit.
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