This year we’ve rounded up some of the hottest gifts for your special someone! Whether you are shopping for him, her or getting something special for the both of you – we’ve got you covered!

Lolita Lempicka Si Lolita Eau de Toilette

Buy her a scent that sparks your desire!  Lolita Lempicka Si Lolita Eau de Toilette is the perfect fragrance for the special woman in your life. The eau de toilette is a light, crisp version of the Si Lolita perfume. Green top notes of lemon leaf and pink peppercorn create an undeniable freshness and lead the way towards the heart of sweet pea mixed with hawthorn and magnolia. The base of the scent is my personal favorite, notes of amber and white musk that leave behind an alluring aroma.

1.7 oz., $62; 1.0 oz., $48 at Sephora

vbeauté IT KIT

Give the gift of amazing skin with the vbeauté IT KIT. Complete with five essential, luxurious, refillable and customizable anti-aging products, this kit is a perfect gift and must-have for any lady in your life that loves her skin. The travel-sized products come in a sleek, gunmetal clutch, ideal for ladies on the go. Created by Julie Macklowe, the line is formulated with exclusive botanicals from Switzerland, particularly Alpine Rose, a flower that grows in the extreme climates of the Alps. The flower is known for its beauty in the summer and its ability to regenerate itself after the winter. The entire line is all-natural, paraben-free, gluten-free and not tested on animals. Included in the clutch are:

Rub Off: Gentle facial exfoliator

Buying Time: Everyday crème

Evidence Eraser: Gentle foaming cleanser

Eye Never: Nourishing repair eye cream

Undercover Agent: Anti-wrinkle serum

The vbeauté It Kit is available for $165 at Nordstrom.

SpaFinder Gift Card

Perhaps the best gift for your lovely lady is a SpaFinder Gift Card. Treat her to a day of spa that will leave her rejuvenated, refreshed and ready for whatever fabulous date plans the night has to bring. Select your SpaFinder Gift Card value here.

Krigler Jazzy Riviera ²10

This year surprise your guy with the gift of a signature scent that will make you both happy: Krigler Jazzy Riviera ²10. Wearing this fragrance, your man will be in good company; Albert Krigler was inspired by socialite friends Pablo Picasso, F. Scott Fitzgerald (SpaFinder Wellness Week 2012 Spokeswoman Mariel Hemingway’s grandfather), Ernest Hemingway and Dorothy Parker. Top notes of clean citrus, bergamote, lemon and mandarin, a floral but masculine heart of coriander, freesia, cyclamen and a deep, woody base of Krigler’s signature cedar, patchouli, musk and vetiver. I can attest that the aroma only gets better as the day rolls on and each of the notes is represented in a subtle yet unforgettable way.

Sample size, $9; 1.7 oz., $215/3.4 oz., $305  at Krigler

Philip B. Double Happiness Bath Collection – Body Wash Duo

Make your man doubly happy with Philip B. Double Happiness Bath Collection – Body Wash Duo. You’ll be tempted to use the rich Chai Latte Soul and Body Wash and Thai Tea Mind & Body Wash every time you step into the shower. The Chai Latte has a warming effect and a spicy, aromatic scent while the Thai Tea cools the skin as it cleanses. Both washes are made of healing botanicals, which will leave your man’s skin soft, silky and glowing. Best of all, the duo comes packaged in the signature Philip B. black gift box and tied with a Valentine’s Day-approved red satin ribbon.

Each gift set contains 11.8 fl. oz./350 ml Chai Latte Soul & Body Wash and 11.8 fl oz/350ml Thai Tea Mind & Body Wash; $62 at Philip B.

SpaFinder Gift Card

You can always treat that special guy to a fabulous SpaFinder Gift Card, which he can use to indulge in a men’s facial or sports massage to gear up for the rest of your Valentine’s Day.

Love Potion No.5

Bring a little TLC home with Epicuren’s Love Potion No.5. The exotic blend of cranberry, cardamom and vanilla along with hints of ylang ylang, patchouli, clary sage and orange, will have passions high and romance in the air. Choose between:

Room & Linen Spray, 4 oz.

This room and linen spray sets the tone with aromatic oils that transform any bedroom to a fragrant retreat.

Massage & Body Oil, 4 oz.
Bring the relaxation home with this precisely blended massage and body oil and give that special someone an at-home massage.

Please visit www.epicuren.com for more product information.

Flirty Little Favorites

Bring out your sexy sides with Booty Parlor’s Flirty Little Favorites trio of beauty boosters, aimed to encourage flirtation. Booty Parlor formulates their favorites with a pheromone blend to inspire chemistry between you and your loved one. The kit includes a Pink Caviar Scrub, Luminizing Body Butter and Perfume Oil.

Flirty Little Favorites, $36 at bootyparlor.com.

SpaFinder Gift Card

If in doubt, grab a SpaFinder Gift Card to use at one of our Top Ten Romantic Spas or at your favorite day spa for a side-by-side couple’s massage to relax, connect and celebrate the holiday!

Tags: Booty Parlor Flirty Little Favorites, Epicuren Love Potion No. 5, Krigler Jazzy Riviera, Lolita Lempicka Si Lolita, Philip B. Double Happiness Bath Collection, Valentine's Day Gifts, Valentine's Day Gifts for Her, Valentine's Day Gifts for Him, Valentine's Ideas for Couples, vbeaute IT KIT, VDay Gift Guide

The big day of the big game is fast-approaching, and for many, football fans or not, Super Bowl Sunday translates to a day in with friends and family while being surrounded by plenty of food and snacks. We’ve acquired a few recipes from Canyon Ranch to make planning for your game-day get-together a breeze: for a satisfying, festive and healthy spread, try these recipe makeovers that make traditional fatty Super Bowl foods and snacks anything but “a calorie-ridden nutritional disaster,” as Canyon Ranch puts it.

“Try this tasty, fun version of Buffalo Chicken—without the wings and grease but with all the punchy flavor—plus a helping of fresh, crisp veggies to balance the spice,” says Canyon Ranch.And of course, you can’t forget the dips. Canyon Ranch also shares its recipes for healthy and customizable hummus, a traditional smoked chipotle salsa and a creamy, low-fat and low-sodium artichoke dip. Now all you’ll need to decide on is which team you’re rooting for.

Buffalo Chicken Salad (Makes 4 salads)

Ingredients:
For the Buffalo Sauce:

Instructions:

1. Combine all Buffalo Sauce ingredients except for butter in medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer and cook until vegetables are soft and liquid has reduced by half. Cool slightly and place in blender. Add butter and puree until smooth. Refrigerate.
2. Pound chicken breasts to ½-inch thick. Combine buttermilk and pepper in a shallow bowl. Add chicken and marinate for at least 2 hours.
3. Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. In a shallow bowl, combine flour, paprika, salt and second pepper. Mix well. Dredge chicken breasts in seasoned flour and place in hot pan. Sauté over medium heat until golden brown on each side, about 3- 5 minutes. If necessary, transfer to a 400° oven to finish cooking.
4. Divide carrots, cucumber and celery stick into 4 equal portions. Place 1 cup of lettuce on each of four plates. Top with carrots, cucumber and celery sticks. Drizzle each salad with 2 tbsp bleu cheese dressing. Slice each chicken breast and place over vegetables. Top with 2 tbsp buffalo sauce.

Nutrition information per serving: 405 calories | 35 g carbohydrate | 14 g fat | 86 mg cholesterol | 34 g protein | 656 mg sodium | 4 g fiber

Artichoke Dip (Makes 16 [¼-cup] servings)

Ingredients:
½ cup low-fat cream cheese
½ cup nonfat sour cream
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup grated mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 ½ tsp salt
1 ½ tsp black pepper
½ cup chopped green chili
2 cups canned artichoke hearts, drained and rinsed

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°.
2. Combine all ingredients except for artichoke hearts in a food processor. Process until smooth and creamy. Add artichokes and pulse until artichokes are chunky.
3. Place dip in an 8-inch baking pan and bake for 10- 15 minutes or until bubbly.

Nutrition information per serving: 55 calories | 5 g carbohydrate | 2 g fat | 8 mg cholesterol | 4 g protein | 282 mg sodium | 1 g fiber

Hummus (Makes 8 [¼-cup] servings)

Ingredients:
1 15-oz. can garbanzo beans, drained
½ tsp ground cumin
1 tsp minced garlic
2 tsp chopped fresh parsley
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Pinch freshly ground black pepper
½ tsp sea salt
1 tbsp sesame tahini
¼ cup water

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor and puree until smooth. If hummus is too thick, add more water until it reaches desired consistency. Adjust seasonings as desired.

Nutrition information per serving: 90 calories | 9 g carbohydrate | 5 g fat | 0 mg cholesterol | 3 g protein | 143 mg sodium | 1 g fiber

Chipotle Salsa (Makes 16 [2-tbsp] servings)

Ingredients:
1 15-oz. can whole tomatoes, drained
¼ cup diced red onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tbsp chopped cilantro
¼ tsp minced chipotle pepper
½ tsp sea salt
1 tsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp white wine vinegar
Pinch chili flakes

Instructions:
Place all ingredients in a food processor or blender container and blend until smooth.

Nutrition information per serving: 10 calories | 2 g carbohydrate | Trace fat | 0 mg cholesterol | Trace protein | 152 mg sodium | Trace fiber

Check out last year’s healthy Super Bowl recipes from celebrity fitness and wellness guru David Kircsh.

Tags: buffalo chicken, Canyon Ranch, healthy recipes, healthy superbowl recipes, Spa Recipes, Super Bowl

“No cuts. No color. Just blowouts for only $40.” That’s the mantra of one of my favorite New York City spots – Drybar. The concept is simple: Schedule an appointment, pick a cocktail-inspired blowout of the “menu,” sit at the “bar” and indulge in a fabulous blowout while you sip on wine or champagne. Alli Webb founded the chain by expanding her side business called Straight-at-Home, which she created after years as a professional stylist. Locations span the U.S. with seven bars in California, one in Scottsdale, Arizona, one in Atlanta, Georgia, two in Texas and, now with the grand opening of a Midtown location on Thursday, two in New York City.

Credit: Drybar

Located inside Le Parker Meridien hotel at 119 West 56^th Street, this brand-new Midtown Manhattan location joins its Flatiron counterpart on January 26. In addition to Drybar, the new Underground at Le Parker Meridien will feature a brand-new Gravity Fitness, the hotel’s first spa, Moonshine Spa, a nail salon, tenoverten and Petit BluDog for healthy bites.

Drybar was mentioned in SpaFinder’s Top Ten Spa Trends for 2012, under the “Glambition” trend for obvious reasons! By giving people the option of walking in and getting a red carpet-worthy style for only $40, Drybar makes it possible for women to always look “done.” I recently went to the Flatiron location to get a blowout for my birthday. Making the appointment was easy as pie, and I arrived and was taken back to have my hair washed right away.

Credit: Drybar

I was then asked which style I wanted from the menu or if I had something else in mind, proof that these stylists are pros that are able to veer off the menu. I already had the “Cosmo-Tai” in mind for the look I was hoping for, and when my stylist asked me if I would be going out that night or the next I was further assured of her talent, as she made the curls a bit tighter and didn’t condition the top of my head, knowing that the following day the style would look amazing, voluminous and be exactly what I “ordered.”

I was offered a drink and magazines to read as she worked at my hair turning into the Kardashian-esque mane I so badly wanted. The one thing to note – the mirrors are behind you, so you can’t see what’s happening on your head until it’s done. I found this strange initially but then realized that it made the experience much more relaxing, as I focused on other things rather than what my hair looked like in the in-between stage.

I left with exactly what I ordered from the menu and a vow to return the next time I wanted some fabulous hair!

Tags: Drybar, Drybar NYC, Glambition, Le Parker Meridien, Moonshine Spa, SpaFinder 2012 Trends

Credit: Rockhouse Hotel

“Out of many, one people” is the Jamaican motto, and from that stems this Caribbean paradise’s spa industry as well: Out of many diverse rituals and settings found at lavish resort spas to intimate boutique hotel spas comes one concept — the art of relaxation, revitalization and indulgence to grant visitors an authentic, isle-style experience.

Recent travels to some of the finest Jamaican spas and resorts proved that island-hopping and spa-ing here, combined with the inviting spirit of the Jamaican people, is truly a soulful experience. Bob Marley versed it best: “One love, one heart” – not coincidentally, but fittingly, a tune used in Jamaica Tourist Board commercials, and it’s an anthem I’ve been singing since I returned.

Here’s just a little taste of a big island called Jamaica (and no, I’m not talking about the incredible jerk shacks found on every corner here).

Day 1: The Friendly City
Round Hill Hotel & Villas, Montego Bay

Montego Bay, located between Ocho Rios and Negril, is the epicenter of Jamaica’s tourism, and once the playground for the rich and famous. Round Hill Hotel and Villas, with its fusion of Caribbean elegance and island low-key casualness, follows suit, catering to an international clientele — and an A-list crowd that included legends like Jackie Kennedy and Elizabeth Taylor. Set on a tropical 110-acre peninsula, Round Hill is also a haunt for Ralph Lauren, who owns a villa there and redesigned 36 tropical-style guest rooms in the resort’s Pineapple House, as well as the Grill Restaurant (fresh herbs and vegetables used in dishes are sourced from the resort’s organic garden). Rooms, with four-poster mahogany bamboo beds and louvered windows, mix rustic-chic with couture while white stone floors and interiors mingle with vibrant splashes of blue and pink; lavish villa accommodations are cushioned in the hillside. A private stretch of beach, double infinity-edge pool assembled into local stone from an 18^th-century sugar works and classic afternoon tea service add a glamorous touch.

Down a lengthy, rock-lined pathway, against the backdrop of lush greenery on one side and turquoise sea on the other, away from the hubbub of the rest of the resort’s activities, lies the Spa at Round Hill. Housed in an 18th-century plantation building, surrounded by 10 acres of expansive emerald lawns, the spa is a gentle throwback to times past, and a menu of body, skincare and beauty/salon services use Elemis products or indigenous natural blends. The Jamaican coffee bean body scrub (which includes a chamomile cleansing, lavender scrub and apricot toner facial) and Remedy massage tempt me, and in true Round Hill fashion, the treatment, taken in a room overlooking the sea (services can also be taken seaside or in the hydrotherapy garden loft), awakens my senses – complete with the vivid smell of aromatherapy oils, the quick rubs and kneading of my therapist and the ocean as my soundtrack. Also enticing? The invigorating yoga class, held on the spa’s porch, or a healthful lunch, enjoyed on the lawn.

Other area attractions to soak in: Doctor’s Cave Bathing Beach, arguably the most popular beach on the island, known for its curative mineral properties

Day 2: Spa on the Rocks
Rockhouse Hotel, Negril

The “capital of casual,” Negril has a laidback, unhurried vibe, evoking a great interaction between locals and tourists. Marveling at the town’s cliff-side and seaside juxtaposition, listening to live reggae music and slipping away to the famed Seven-Mile Beach all come into play here, and as Negril offers luxury all-inclusive resorts like Beaches, Sandals and Moon Dance Cliffs to family-owned cabin-like accommodations, there’s something for every type of traveler. These include Rockhouse, a jungle-chic boutique hotel perched on the craggy cliffs of Pristine Cove; added touches like thatched-roof villas and wooden signs with words like “Massage Point” painted freehand create a nonchalant charm and natural environment, while sunbathing decks at the cliff’s edge and stairs carved into the rock that lead guests to the reef act as a constant reminder of the dramatic jagged-rock setting. Rockhouse’s storied past involves being one of the first hotels on the cliffs and was an escape for those who liked to live on the edge, including Bob Marley, Bob Dylan and the Rolling Stones.

Credit: Jamaica Tourist Board

The Rockhouse Spa complements the resort’s bohemian feel and rocky interior/exterior atmosphere; some of the first things noticed at the spa are a bronze Buddha-type statue and koi pond, complete with turtles. A lovely presentation of essential oils and blends is a precursor to the Signature Tropical Massage, which incorporates my chosen blend, as well as a slathering of the all-natural, chakra-oriented Caribbean Essentials line. While my holistic spa treatment — designed to keep my chi in balance with my natural equilibrium — is taken in the eight-treatment-room spa, services, like the Caribbean Drench, can also be held in cabanas on the cliff’s edge. After the spa, the hotel’s Pushcart Restaurant and Rum Bar, with fantastic regional street food and authentic home-style cooking, provides an added treat.

Also in the neighborhood: Rockhouse is less than three miles from Negril’s West End Road, a resort-heavy district known for being a cave-and-diving-area by day and bar-and-dining-hotspot by night. Rick’s Café lures in visitors to watch cliff jumpers (the highest platform jump is 35 feet) and stunning sunsets.

Day 3: Rhythms and Smiles
Ritz-Carlton, Rose Hall, Montego Bay

Credit: Ritz-Carlton

Returning to MoBay means returning to the Friendly City, and checking in to the alluring Ritz-Carlton Golf & Spa Resort, Rose Hall, Jamaica. Christened the “sanctuary of rhythms and smiles,” the Ritz-Carlton sits on 5,000 acres in an exclusive part of the Rose Hall plantation on Jamaica’s north coast, not far from downtown MoBay. Defined Old World luxury is evident here, down to every meticulous detail (including the Appleton Rum-infused cold towels handed to you to refresh after an outdoor stroll), though the sophisticated vibe intermingles with spirited charm. My ocean-view suite was graciously accommodated with double French doors, two private balconies to

Credit: Ritz-Carlton

take advantage of the sea and full parlor, styled in brightly hued accommodations that epitomize the vibrant spirit of the island. Entertainment captures the lively mood in all five restaurants, even at breakfast (Horizon, with a guitar soloist), and the on-site Jerk Center, a culinary tour de force of Jamaican flavors.

The resort features myriad activities, including the par 71 championship White Witch Golf Course, designed by Robert von Hagge and Rick Baril – 16 of the 18 holes offer sea views –the White Witch Restaurant and the Ritz-Carlton Spa®. The all-encompassing spa has a full host of steam and sauna areas, a cold plunge, salon, fitness center and highly trained therapists to boot.

Credit: Ritz-Carlton

Off of the Caribbean-inspired treatment menu, I’m able to indulge in the Island Aromatherapy Massage, a rich cascade of Swedish techniques, textures and scented Jamaican aromatic oils.

If you venture off the resort: The allegedly haunted Rose Hall Great House, which tells the legend of “The White Witch” and inspired the Johnny Cash song, the “Ballad of Annee Palmer,” is a popular attraction, as is Scotchies jerk center and bar, where the credo is carefree attitude and great dry-rubbed jerk dishes.

Tags: Bob Marley, Caribbean Essentials, Doctor's Cove Beach, Jamaican spas, Jamaican Tourist Board, Montego Bay, Negril, Pushcart Restaurant, Rick's Cafe, Ritz-Carlton Rose Hall, Rockhouse Hotel, Rockhouse Spa, Rose Hall Great House, Round Hill Hotel, Spa at Round Hill

Nita Lake Lodge: From Schussing the Slopes to Shirodhara and Spa Cuisine

Oh Whistler, how I love thee; your grand mountains, pristine lakes, fragrantly fresh air and now on the list, Nita Lake Lodge. As the only full-service hotel located on the water, Nita Lake Lodge provides a perfect stay for those seeking some solace from the lively bustle of Whistler Village in British Columbia.

Situated by Whistler’s Creekside, home of the 2010 Winter Olympic alpine events, and only four years old, Nita Lake Lodge recently underwent new management, which also resulted in a complete makeover. Since March 2010, the 77-suite lodge has featured fireplace-adorned suites, exquisite cuisine and an Ayurvedic spa, in addition to a plethora of other amenities and offerings.

The Art of Ayurveda

Ayurveda, an ancient Indian science of health and healing, is centered around the idea that each individual is comprised of one of three bodily humors, or doshas, that make up one’s constitution: Vata, Pitta and Kapha. “Knowing one’s dosha is key to making choices that will harmonize well with needs in the areas of food, activities and environment. Health exists when there is a balance between these three fundamental doshas,” Nita Lake Lodge says. The word is a Sanskrit compound: ayu, meaning “life,” and veda, meaning “knowledge.” Sometimes translated as “science of life,” Ayurveda lays out a complete mind-body prescription for healthy living that includes a dietetic regimen and a body of herbal healing techniques.

Embracing the Ayurvedic concept as a whole, Nita Lake Lodge recently unveiled its “A Taste of Ayurveda” spa and dining package (on trend, we must say!), which I had a chance to check out this winter during ski season.

Before I even arrived in Whistler, the spa director, Carol Wilson, sent me a short assessment to fill out in order to determine my body-specific dosha; based on this assessment, which asked questions ranging from my hair type to how I react to stress, dinner and the Abhyangam massage and Shirodhara treatment were tailored specifically to me.

“A Taste of Ayurveda”
Part 1: Abhyangam & Shirodhara at Ashram Spa

As I lay on the droni table, a solid and intricately carved table made of neem wood, in Nita Lake Lodge’s four treatment-room Ashram Spa by Therapy Ayurveda, my therapist began the treatment with a calming traditional chant and a scalp massage. Based on ancient Indian principles of Ayurveda and pressure points, Abhyangam massage is designed to heal the body and create a balance between mind, body and spirit.  Deep kneading movements combined with long light strokes using sesame and grape-seed oils first worked the left side of my body, and then right. Because of the structure of the wooden table, my therapist explained to me that she would work on my back while I was on it or was slightly adjusted to the side.

After a thorough, full-body massage, it was time for Shirodhara. For 30 minutes, I relaxed on the wooden table with my head positioned strategically at the center of an intricately carved design, which served as a trail for the oil to drip down and off the table and into a copper bowl placed below to catch it.  As a continuous stream of warm oil flowed onto my forehead, I began to zone out, which is exactly what the treatment is supposed to do: clear the mind and relax the nervous system, reduce stress and anxiety and induce a profound sensation of calm and wellbeing.

In addition to a comprehensive range of Ayurvedic spa therapies, Ashram Spa, one of Canada’s only authentic Ayurvedic spas, also offers yoga and exercise services to help guests and visitors reestablish health, harmony and balance. Outdoor hot tubs are available for spa guests, as is a steam room and locker room.

Part 2: Customized Ayurvedic Cuisine at Aura Restaurant

After a calming and balancing experience at the spa, I hit the slopes until the lifts closed and was famished by the time I got back to the cozy and welcoming lodge. Although the spa experience was behind me, luckily, part two of the package was still ahead.

Based on my responses to the dosha assessment, Executive Chef Tim Cuff created a personalized Ayurvedic three-course dinner at Aura Restaurant for me. With Kapha leanings, I was served a first course salad of organic beets, horseradish, ginger crumbs, ya pears and upland watercress. My second course was a delicious, lightly warmed celery root soup complemented by caramelized corn with apple lightly sautéed, soft boiled quail egg and amarinth, an ancient Aztec grain. Finally, the third course graced me with Steelhead salmon drizzled with a dijon buerre blanc sauce, warm heirloom carrot salad, fried cauliflower, sunchokes, broccoli brussels sprouts and charred meyer lemon and parsnips to the side.

Striving to represent different tastes in every dish, as Ayurvedic custom dictates, guests participating in the “A Taste of Ayurveda” package can all expect a three-course customized dinner. Set lakeside, Aura features a private dining room and an expansive outdoor patio where diners can enjoy seasonal fare while soaking in the breathtaking views of the water and surrounding mountains. Cure lounge is also an ideal place relax by the fireplace and enjoy an après ski drink or savor some small plates (the menu even features drink and small-plate pairings). Fix, Nita Lake Lodge’s casual café, features coffee, baked goods, pre-packaged house-made charcuterie, take-home meals and more.

Four-Season Delights in Lakefront Splendor

In addition to classy and contemporary cabin-style accommodations, a delicious food and beverage program, an authentic Ayurvedic spa and breathtaking views, Nita Lake Lodge offers guests a number of additional services, including a free shuttle car to transport you either to the mountain or to a night of festivities. During the winter, snow shoes and skates are complimentary for guests to enjoy the outdoors, and ski lockers are available as well. In the summer, the lodge partners with a rafting company; bike and fishing rod rentals are also available, which guests use to fish for trout in Nita Lake, located just feet from the from the lodge. Yoga classes are held out on the lake dock as well, and year-round on-site babysitting services, gym access and circuit classes, which occur six times a week, are complimentary.

If you find yourself in Whistler and love an upscale cabin-like feel with the mountains and lake surrounding you, Nita Lake Lodge fits the bill perfectly, no matter what the season.

If you go, be sure to check out Alta Bistro for lunch or dinner, just a five minute drive from Nita Lake Lodge. Offering very reasonably priced prix fixe menus, this new restaurant features seasonal and local foods and an impressive cocktail menu with innovative drinks you’ve never seen.

Tags: Abhyangam, Aura Restaurant, Ayurveda, Blackcomb, customized cuisine, dosha, Food & Recipes, Nita Lake Lodge, shirodhara, Whistler, Winter Olympics

A deep breath. A relaxed yoga class. A soothing spa treatment. We all have our own ways to handle stress and to simply relax, but if that yoga session isn’t enough to truly maintain equilibrium, opt for some “me time” at one of these spas, voted the Top 10 Favorite for Mind-Body-Spirit in the 2011 SpaFinder Readers’ Choice Awards. From the full-service destination spas to the all-out yoga retreats, these spas fuel the mind, invigorate the body and connect the spirit , kick starting your journey to a balanced wellbeing. (Can’t make it to the spa? Try these six easy meditation tips for some at-home calm.)

Ananda in the Himalayas (New Delhi, India)

El Monte Sagrado Living Resort and Spa (Taos, NM)

Como Shambhala Estate (Bali, Indonesia)

Fivelements, Puri Ahimsa (Bali, Indonesia)

Golden Door (San Marcos, CA)

Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health (Stockbridge, MA)

Mii amo, a Destination Spa at Enchantment (Sedona, AZ)

Miraval Resort & Spa (Tucson, AZ)

Rancho La Puerta (Tecate, Mexico)

Ten Thousand Waves (Santa Fe, NM)

Tags: ananda, COMO Shambhala Estate, destination spa, El Monte Sagrado, Fivelements, Golden Door, Kripalu Center, meditation tips, Mii Amo, Miraval, rancho la puerta, Readers' Choice Awards, SpaFinder, ten thousand waves, top 10, yoga retreat

As if SpaRahRah!™ wasn’t already an amazing site offering some of the most awe-inspiring spa, wellness and travel deals, starting January 27, it will be adding lust-worthy Clean Beauty Products to its offerings! The Clean Beauty Products will feature rising star, spa and beauty brands with an emphasis on those that are organic, nontoxic and chemical free. Here are some of the knockout brands you can look forward to seeing on SpaRahRah! in the coming weeks:

Patyka

Patyka, a certified organic product line that includes skincare, body care and perfume, was launched in France in 2002. The team behind the brand travelled the world and used years of research to create Patyka out of natural potions and plant decoctions of family, botanical or apothecary origin and rare perfumes. The brand believes that every woman breathes an unexpected fragrance, expresses a dash of impertinence and embodies an elegant, rebellious spirit.

Nickel

Nickel, a men’s only spa started in New York, New York, has a line of men’s grooming and skincare products. The line carries moisturizer, facial scrub, cleansers, eye care, bath, body and shaving products. The line is high performance, easy to use and gives instant results.

ClariSEA

ClariSEA is a lifestyle brand focused on the improvement of skin and self through simple yet effective treatment products. The brand was born out of its creator Alison Ruth’s discovery that sea salt helped to cure her acne. Rather than attacking the skin to kill blemishes, ClariSEA products naturally eliminate blemishes through deep exfoliation and renewal. All products are benzoyl peroxide free and can be used on all skin types, particularly sensitive skin.

Pangea Organics

Pangea Organics are formulated with organic ingredients to amplify hydration and support cellular regeneration by feeding the skin with antioxidant nutrients, EFA-rich oils and nourishing plant botanicals. The “Always Beneficial, Never Artificial” Pangea is always handcrafted, organic, fair trade and cruelty free. The brand is partnered with Women for Women International and helps to provide women survivors of war, civil strife and other conflicts with tools and resources to move from crisis and poverty to stability and self-sufficiency; five percent of the profits from Pangea Organics go to Women for Women International.

Acure Organics

Acure Organics is a family owned and operated company founded on sustainable principles to provide the highest quality fair trade, natural and certified organic personal care products. All of Acure Organics products are free from animal testing, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, harmful preservatives and artificial colors. Side note: Acure Organics Moroccan Argan Oil + Argan Stem Cell Shampoo and Conditioner have the most delicious smell ever!

Priti NYC

Priti NYC provides luxury and eco-friendly nail polish that stemmed from its founder Kim D’Amato’s conscious effort to switch to organic food and products while pregnant. Priti’s mission is to support organic farmers and to decrease the amount of chemicals poisoning the earth – one manicure at a time.  The polishes are completely nontoxic and come in a great array of colors.

Tallulah Jane

Tallulah Jane presents beautiful fragrances that embrace the centuries-old craft Bourbon perfumeries with a bold, modern sensibility. The scents are made from organic and wild-crafted oils mixed together in certified organic grape alcohol or jojoba and then hand poured in small batches. The brand prides itself on its commitment to making products ethically and sustainable.

Yarok

Meaning “green” in Hebrew, Yarok brings us organic hair products from renowned hair stylist Mordechai Alvow. The focus is to make the most impact on hair and scalp health with the least impact on the natural environment. Every product meets 100 percent of vegan requirements and is free of alcohol, paraben, sulfates and cruelty to animals.

Join us in welcoming the Clean Beauty Products to SpaRahRah!

Growing up, I have fond memories of eating dumplings with my family to ring in the New Year. So just in time for Chinese New Year, which falls on January 23 this year, we’re sharing with you a recipe from Fuchun Resort, a Leading Hotels of the World property, in Hangzhou, China, so you might be able to partake in some Chinese New Year traditions yourself.

Chinese New Year is a festive time of year when the outlook on life is bright, lively and cheerful. Red and gold decorations are everywhere – red symbolizing happiness, and gold, prosperity. This year marks the year of the dragon, but every year, it’s Chinese tradition to eat dumplings on New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day. It is thought that the shape of dumplings resembles ancient Chinese money, or golden or silver nuggets, and so eating them will bring prosperity and wealth in the coming year.

Served as a special only for Chinese New Year, you can try these delectable dumplings at Fuchun Resort’s Asian Corner restaurant. Here’s to a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year!

FUCHUN RESORT’S DUO OF DUMPLINGS RECIPE
Shrimp with Bamboo Shoots & Dried Scallops with Minced Pork (Makes 1 serving/8 dumplings)

Food & Wellness Editor Amy Sung making dumplings at home!

Ingredients:

Regular Wrapping Dough:
1⅓ cup flour
100 ml cold water

Carrot-Flavored Wrapping Dough:
1⅓ cup flour
100 ml fresh carrot juice water

Filling:
½ lb. minced pork belly
2 tsp ginger puree
2 tbsp spring onion, chopped
½ cup bamboo shoots, finely julienned
⅔ cup fresh shrimp, minced (about ½ lb. fresh shelled shrimp)
0.7 oz. dried scallops, bathed in hot water and squeezed to remove excess liquid
½ tsp white sesame seeds
1 tbsp sugar, divided
½ tbsp salt, divided
½ tsp white pepper powder, divided

Dipping Sauce:
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp julienned ginger

Instructions:
1.  For the wrapping dough: Mix flour with liquid and knead dough until it forms a soft and smooth ball. Set aside while you mix the fillings.
2.  For the Filling (Shrimp with Bamboo Shoots):
       - In a bowl, mix the shrimp and bamboo shoots.
       - Add in ¼ tsp salt, ½ tbsp sugar and ¼ tsp white pepper powder and mix. Season further to taste.
       - Mix thoroughly and cover bowl with plastic film.
       - Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3.   Filling (Dried Scallops with Minced Pork):
       - In a bowl, mix the pork and soaked scallops.
       - Add in the ginger puree and mix.
       - Add in ½ tsp white sesame seeds, ¼ tsp salt, ½ tbsp sugar and ¼ tsp white pepper powder and mix.        Season further to taste.
       - Mix thoroughly and cover bowl with plastic film.
       - Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
4.  Return to the dough and divide it into four small pieces. Roll each piece into a flat, round circle – the middle should be thicker than the outside to keep the dumpling from breaking where the filling is.
5.  To assemble: Take 1 round carrot-flavored wrapper and place a dollop of mixed shrimp filling in the middle.
6.  Fold the wrapper and close in a half-moon shape. Repeat for 3 remaining carrot-flavored wrappers and set aside.
7.  Repeat with regular-flavored wrappers and pork filling.
8.  Boil water in a medium-sized pot; once it boils, drop all dumplings in.
9.  Cover the pot and let boil for 8 minutes. If the water boils over, remove the lid and add a drop of cold water. Continue to boil until all dumplings are floating – this means they’re ready.
10.  Prepare a mix of approximately 2 tbsp rice vinegar with approximately 1 tsp julienned ginger as a side garnish and dip (measurements for this dip should be adjusted as you see fit).

Did you know there are also certain traditions and superstitions on how to start Chinese New Year off right surrounding health, wellness and a little pampering?

And, don’t forget to check out our fabulous Spas of Asia pages to learn all about a variety of unique spa destinations through eye-catching slideshows and of course, to find spas and start planning your visit!

Tags: China, Chinese New Year, Dumplings, Food, Fuchun Resort, recipes, spa recipe, tradition, Year of the Dragon

Meet Brutus the Bull, who can at times, be brutal. Brutus lives in Austin, Texas, at Travaasa Austin, and his main purpose in life is to help guests develop a stronger core, and have some Texas-style fun while doing it.

Likely to be unlike anything you’ve experienced in a fitness setting, this mechanical bull workout class, created in April of 2011, is designed to increase strength and improve flexibility because it’s continually moving—up, down, right and left—purposely keeping you off-balance. It’s a ride that forces you to use your leg muscles to grip the sides of the bull, and your core muscles to flex as you move forward and back.

“People love this class because it’s fun and a new experience for them. It’s a unique way to work your core and have fun doing it,” Jillian Lambert, a fitness expert at Travaasa Austin, tells SpaFinder.

“The mechanical bull received the most attention when the movie Urban Cowboy came out in 1980. This movie popularized the mechanical bull activity, and soon bars in Texas were working people’s core without them even knowing it! That was 32 years ago, and it’s now making a comeback,” Lambert says.

You can expect to feel the workout in your upper abs, lower abs, internal obliques (side of waist), external obliques (along ribcage), back and adductors (inner thighs), Lambert tells us. The workout is not recommended for any people with neck or back issues.

If you go, here’s what to expect:

• Wear regular comfortable workout attire. No shoes are allowed while on Brutus.
• You’ll sign a waiver in advance. “We let the guests know that we do not recommend riding the bull if they have any neck or back issues,” Lambert says.
• The 30- to 45-minute class commences with some Garth Brooks country music and Lambert puts on her black cowboy hat and cowboy boots.
• You’ll get an introduction of what Bull Fitness is with an explanation of what muscles within the core will be worked.
• Warm-up: Bouncing on stability balls, “lasso”-ing and doing a “giddyup” with the ball (hopping and traveling while on the ball).
• The air mattress corral will be inflated and Lambert demonstrates how to mount the bull, what position to hold and what to do before, during and after exiting the corral.
• One at a time, Bull Fitness enthusiasts will ride the bull, sometimes two to three different times, depending on how much time is available…and how long you can stay on!

Besides the Mechanical Bull Fitness class, Travaasa Austin encompasses everything from aquatic yoga to Zumba®. There’s also an outdoor circuit, which makes exercise not just about breathing properly, but also breathtaking as you take in the surrounding scenery. Check out Travaasa Austin for more details on the variety of other fitness classes offered.

Tags: austin, bull fitness, core, exercise, fitness, mechanical bull, mechanical bull workout, Texas, Travaasa, Travaasa Austin, workout

The misconception of “bigger is better” is leading Americans down a road of obesity and diabetes, and while part of this problem is the content of the food itself, portion sizes contribute to the issue just as much.

We’ve all seen the articles that match portion sizes of veggies, meat and more to relatable items such as a computer mouse, a deck of cards or a tennis ball, but how many of us can actually catalogue these food groups with their corresponding product in our minds to apply when we’re sitting down at a meal?

The USDA has made things easier with its MyPlate tool, which is based on the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans to help consumers make better food choices. Designed to remind Americans to eat healthfully, MyPlate illustrates the five food groups using a familiar mealtime visual: a place setting. When you plate your food, or go out to eat, it’s good to keep the MyPlate visual in mind; fruits and veggies should take up at least half of your plate, grains should take up more than a quarter of your plate and protein, a little less than one quarter.

We know that the idea of eating less may sound daunting to many people, us included at times. Here are some tips from Choosemyplate.gov to understand just how much you are eating and why, along with a few common obstacles people face and ways to get past these concerns.

• Figure out how big your portions really are: Measure how much the bowls, glasses, cups and plates you usually use hold. Pour your breakfast cereal into your regular bowl.  Then, pour it into a measuring cup.  How many cups of cereal do you eat each day?
• Measure a fixed amount of some foods and drinks to see what they look like in your glasses and plates. For example, measure one cup of juice to see what one cup of liquid looks like in your favorite glass.
• Pay attention to feelings of hunger. Stop eating when you are satisfied, not full. If there is still food on your plate or on the table, put it away (or throw it out).  Repeat the phrase “a moment on the lips, a year on the hips” as you do this.
• A simple trick to help you eat less is to use a smaller plate, bowl or glass. One cup of food on a small plate looks like more than the same cup of food on a large plate.
• It is important to think about portion sizes when eating out. Order a smaller size option, when it’s available. Manage larger portions by sharing or taking home part of your meal. When Eating Out, Make Better Choices has lots of tips to help you eat only the amount you need when eating out.
• If you tend to overeat, be aware of the time of day, place and your mood while eating so you can better control the amount you eat. Some people overeat when stressed or upset. Try walking instead of eating, or snack on a healthier option. For example, instead of eating a bag of chips, crunch on some celery, or instead of eating a bowl of ice cream, enjoy a low-fat yogurt with fresh blueberries. Making healthier choices is better for your weight and can also help you feel better.

Common hesitations:

1. “I don’t have time to measure out my foods all the time.”

Being successful at decreasing portion sizes doesn’t mean that you have to measure every meal or snack you eat. Once you’ve taken the time to measure out a few examples, you will be able to estimate portion sizes better. Plus, just eating or drinking less than you normally would means you are decreasing your portion sizes.

2. “My Daily Food Plan tells me to eat more of some things but also to decrease portion sizes. I don’t understand if I should eat more or less.”

The recommendation to decrease portion sizes is particularly important for high-calorie foods or for foods with a lot of empty calories , such as cakes, cookies, sugary drinks and pizza. It is important to Focus on Foods You Need. For example, eat a large portion of steamed broccoli (but with only a very small amount of butter or cheese sauce, if any).

3. “I like to eat a big burger every once in a while. Are there other ways to eat less?”

In general, it is a good rule to eat and drink smaller portions. You can occasionally eat or drink foods in larger portions, but not as part of your daily diet. Make that big burger a “once-in-a-while” special treat, and on most days choose the smaller options.

4. “I was always told to clean my plate.”

Resign from the “clean your plate” club now.  Stop eating when you are satisfied, not when your plate is empty. Start your meal by only eating half of what’s on your plate. Stop for a moment and decide if you really want to eat more. Don’t forget that you can save some leftovers for another meal or snack. Learn more about keeping food safe to eat. Nothing has to go to waste, and the food will taste better when you are hungry again!

Putting the USDA MyPlates guidelines into effect, Precise Portions, a new portion-control dinner system, makes healthy eating even easier with its dinnerware kits. Taking the guesswork out of the equation, its LIFE-style lineup subtly reminds you of how much of each type of food should be on your plate with its design, without looking like it’s made for that reason. Just stay within the lines and follow the easy step guide and placemat included.

Enter to win one of five free Precise Portions dinnerware kits and also get a 30%-off coupon for purchase! To redeem your 30%-off coupon and to sign up for the 100 Day Portion Control Challenge, go to www.preciseportions.com.  Enter Coupon Code: PPSPA for 30% off any purchase.

Tags: 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, diet, drink, eat less, eating habits, eating out, Food, healthy eating, healthy meals, hunger, meal, MyPlate, Portion control, USDA, weight control, weight-loss