New York City

How often do we overlook the beauty that is right in front of us? 

New York City, you should have been my first post! Enjoy these Instagram photos that were captured with my iPhone. All were taken in and around the concrete jungle that I call home. It's no beach in the Caribbean, but it definitely comes close. 

"You Won't Find You Anywhere Else."

It’s that time of the year again, when thoughts of summer take over our brains and make being productive nearly impossible. It also means stress and lots of it, as we wonder how in the hell we’re going to get everything accomplished so that we can spend time on the beach with our closest friends and family.  I have to admit that for the longest time, stress has ruled my life. I've somehow allowed this stupid noun to control me, and it was unfortunately not until recently that I realized just how detrimental this feeling could be.

Out of a desire to escape the hectic (and cold!) spring atmosphere of New York City, I decided to take a trip to Arizona. I wanted the opportunity to relax and I could not think of a more perfect place to visit than Miraval, a resort and spa located in Tucson, Arizona. While I had heard about the possibilities for self-discovery when visiting the property, I did not expect to receive much more than my usual tan and spa treatment. I indulged in a seaweed wrap and a deep tissue massage, but I also received something priceless, that being a new outlook on my life.

Each day started off with a healthy breakfast buffet, which included buckwheat pancakes with agave syrup and scrambled eggs made with tomatoes, spinach and parmesan cheese.  From breakfast, I would make my way to the hotel sign-up sheet for each of the day’s activities. I told myself that I would participate in one Outdoor Adventure and Challenge activity per day. My favorite was Swing and A Prayer, in which I was hoisted up 35 feet in the air and then instructed to release the rope that stabilized me so that I could swing freely. Afterward, our guide reminded us of the importance of letting go of the fears that prevent us from doing what we love in life.

I also took full advantage of the yoga and meditation classes that Miraval offered during my stay. I had not practiced in years, but I was amazed at how quickly my former knowledge returned. These classes focused on managing stress and allowing the body and mind to fully relax. My experience during the meditation class in particular cannot be put into words, but I can say that since that day I have realized just how much of my anxiety is preventable. I now attempt to take all of my responsibilities one day at a time in an effort to keep worry at bay.

What is most amazing is the transformation that I underwent during a period of four days. I can only imagine what a weeklong visit would have accomplished, and I now understand why so many of Miraval’s guests are return visitors. And if the prospect of becoming a more mindful individual is not reason enough for you to visit this destination, maybe this will do the trick. Arizona experiences over 350 days of sunshine per year. Its temperatures are high and the dry heat and lack of humidity makes every day the perfect hair day. 

Miraval is all-inclusive and guests also receive a $150 resort credit per person per night during their stay. This can be put towards expense activities as well as spa treatments. While visiting, we stayed in a two-bedroom villa that was set right at the bottom of a mountain. The views were incredible and our accommodations were extremely private. We were surrounded by nature and could often be found sitting on the back deck listening to the sounds of birds singing. It’s been three weeks and I’m already longing to return!

Tips: 

1. The best time to visit Tucson is during the months of April and May. Note that the rainy season begins in July and lasts through September.

2. While there were a couple of men at the resort when we visited, guests at Miraval are primarily women. Because of this, I found it to be best suited for a mother-daughter trip or a girl’s spa getaway.

3. Due to a lack of direct flights from the New York area into Tucson, Arizona, it is best to fly into Phoenix and then drive two hours to Miraval rather than taking two connecting flights.

4. Miraval just opened their new spa in partnership with Clarins on May 1! Unfortunately it was not completed in time for my trip, but now is a great time to visit and take advantage of the five star facilities! Click here for an online tour. 

5. Be open to new experiences when at Miraval. Although the resort has a great pool area, Miraval is about more than lying in a lounge chair all day! Be active and take full advantage of what is offered. You won’t regret it.