COLD WEATHER WONDERS

Now that winter has finally hit with a vengeance in many parts of North America, other areas are curiously enjoying unseasonably spring-like temperatures and in the process, confusing nature. That said, no matter what it’s doing outside your window, guaranteed that the shorter days, loss of sunlight and an impatient amount of nighttime probably makes most long for a slight lift and diversion. One way to do that is to share with you my personal experiences about using some new spa and beauty products. I’ve even added a review of a cookbook that’s full of healthy eating hints and recipes. I hope you enjoy the following product reviews and even consider trying them yourself.

Brilliance New York Age-Defying Eye Serum

This very lightweight Eye Serum is also gentle and non-irritating. The fragile under eye area was wonderfully hydrated and appeared brighter. The science behind the formula includes a proprietary complex of three peptides that diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, a rich blend of anti-oxidants (vitamins A, B, C and E) and amino acid extract from the Brazilian Cupuacu fruit, which aids in firming and toning the delicate under eye tissue.

Caudalie Beauty Elixir

With a cult-like following, the Elixir is an extraordinary toner that uses rosemary essential oil as its main ingredient, but also includes grape, orange blossom, rose, peppermint, and balm mint. Elixir refreshes, tightens pores, and brightens. Can be used throughout the day. The formula was inspired by Queen Isabelle of Hungary’s “elixir of youth”; this special formula also used rosemary water to brighten, hydrate, refresh, and maintain a more youthful appearance to her aging skin.

Equavie Organic Sesame Delight Body Oil

The Body Oil is remarkably hydrating and doesn’t leave any greasy residue and is quickly absorbed. Sesame oil has always been prized for its naturally gentle and hydrating properties. Besides the soothing and hydrating properties of sesame seed oil, other ingredients include safflower and sunflower seed oil and honey extract. Equavie is the organic (Bio and EcoCert certified) sister line of esteemed Phytomer, the innovators of thalassotherapy-based products.

Leonisa International Posture Control Undergarment

Bad posture and poor undergarment support can lead to back problems, sagging and make a person appear hunched, slouchy and older than their actual years. While this Undergarment isn’t frilly or sexy, neither is bad posture and slouched shoulders. This Undergarment not only supports the back by “encouraging” an upright posture, it also provides exceptional breast support during active sports and workouts.

L’Occitane en Provence Shea Cleansing Milk, Shea Ultra Gentle Moisturizer, Shea Butter Ultra Rich Face Cream

The downside of winter is that dries the skin and robs the air of humidity. Each of these products has a common ingredient, shea butter, which is known for its incredibly hydrating effects. The Cleansing Milk was gentle and had a lovely fresh natural aroma to it; some of the ingredients include rosemary leaf extract, sunflower seed oil, and vitamin A. For daytime, I used the Gentle Moisturizer during the day; this product contains 8% shea butter; besides shea butter, the product contains other ingredients such as grape seed and sunflower seed oil, rosemary leaf extract, and vitamin E. For nighttime, I used the denser Ultra Rich Face Cream; this product contains 25% shea butter; other ingredients include chestnut seed extract, sunflower seed oil, vitamin E, and rosemary leaf extract. Both products had a wonderful texture, a fresh and natural aroma, and when on gently, without being greasy; products were quickly absorbed and maintained hydration levels throughout the day and night.

Miraval Resort & Spa “Mindful Eating” Cookbook

This iconic destination resort and spa continues to raise the bar on spa and wellness experiences that indulge, rejuvenate, heal, and inspire. Health and wellness requires a balance and soundness of mind, body, and soul. This balance also requires healthy eating and knowing what works best and what foods can maximize your nutritional goals. The cookbook briefly summarizes the Miraval Experience, as well as defining their term for “mindfulness” and how it relates to healthy and delicious eating. Included is an overview of cooking hints and techniques, along with food substitutions, suggestions on basic cooking equipment, a shopping list of healthy cooking pantry staples, and a shopping resource guide. There are even primers on knife safety and a how-to on phyllo dough. As if those resources weren’t enough, following are two hundred recipes on all-things food, including stocks, appetizers, salads, dressings, soups, entrees, desserts, and beverages. This first-ever hardcover cookbook from the culinary wizards of Miraval is beautifully illustrated with four-color glossy images, and is scheduled for release May 2012; pre-orders can be placed with either Amazon or Barnes & Noble.

Seaweed Bath Company Wildly Natural Soothing Body Wash

When I think of spa, the aromas of eucalyptus and peppermint are exemplary of my most memorable spa experiences. The Body Wash was refreshing, gentle, as well as hydrating. In addition to essential oils of eucalyptus and peppermint, other ingredients include bladder wrack seaweed, spirulina, coconut, kukui, sunflower, and safflower oils. This is a fresh and bracing product that’s aromatherapuetic as an aid for the upper respiratory; my clogged nasal passages were soothed with the distinct aromas.

SKINDINÄVIA Makeup Finishing Spray

This Finishing Spray is the ideal tool to have on hand to set makeup and not have to worry about touch-ups throughout the day. The ultra fine mist settles on the face and never causes makeup to streak or fade. It has a very pleasant and fresh aroma. This line has other wonderful makeup enhancement products that set, hold, insulate, and add luminosity.

All of these products transition well from season to season, and aren’t just limited to wintertime. Remember to continue taking care of yourself, and while you’re at it, don’t forget to do something nice for yourself and those you love. Until the next time….

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. She also serves on EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness Advisory Board, which is comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa, and is Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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(Photo credits as represented from the specific brand.)

LUXURY BEAUTY PRODUCTS

A new line of organic skincare "green" product line

...all about Layla & Qays...the luxury organic product line used at Joya Spa, Montelucia Resort (Scottsdale, AZ)...


http://luxurybeautyproducts.blogspot.com/2012/02/new-line-of-organic-skincare-green.html

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. She also serves on EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness Advisory Board, which is comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa, and is Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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HOW TO GET THE MOST FROM YOUR SPA EXPERIENCE

I've been covering all-things spa since the mid-1990s after a memorable first-time experience at a destination spa. People go to spas for many reasons. And while the experience can be all touch-feely, it can also be life changing, not to mention costly. Getting the most out of your experience is what really counts. Here are some tips for the spa newbie or the spa savvy.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/red-room/spa-treatment-tips_b_1232521.html

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. She also serves on EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness Advisory Board, which is comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa, and is Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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NATIVE AMERICAN INFLUENCES

~ SHERATON WILD HORSE PASS RESORT & SPA ~

I had an all too brief experience at Aji Spa (Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa, Chandler, AZ) in 2009. This beautiful desert property is owned by the Pima and Maricopa Native American People Gila River Indian Community). Throughout the property, every architectural detail and design element, including operational protocols, are steeped in tribal culture and heritage; the Pima and Maricopa oversee every aspect of operation to assure conformity and authenticity to their culture and heritage. During my visit, I was even given a tour of the Resort by North America’s only Native American Concierge, which heightened the authenticity. I originally wrote about the property and my spa experience in my February 24, 2010 article post.

Back then, my treatment experience was the Native Herbs Cleansing Wrap (O’Otham Kuklan); it was administered to me by a Pima Native American. The treatment was especially meaningful given the authenticity of the therapist, plus the utilization of the Sacred Creosote Plant (Shegoi) throughout the treatment. At the conclusion of the treatment, my therapist also prayed over me. I also recall that after the treatment and while relaxing in one of the spa’s several relaxation areas, a staff member incensed the entire spa with a lit sage smudge bundle as part of its daily purification ritual; it is believed that burning sage blesses the space and those within it, while chasing away negative feelings and spirits.

FAST FORWARD ~ Both the Resort and Spa continue to receive major awards and accolades, including the coveted AAA Five Diamond Award for its Kai Restaurant, the only such restaurant in AZ to receive such an award of distinction. Kai has also received the Forbes Five Star Award. (Other awards have included AAA Four Diamond Award for the Resort, and Forbes Four Star Award for the Spa.)

In this edition, I’m reviewing some new “must-haves”, which includes Aji Spa’s new private label amenity products, “Indigenous” and Kai Restaurant’s “The New Native American Cuisine” cookbook.

AJI SPA INDIGENOUS PRODUCTS ~ Adding to the authenticity of the entire spa experience, Aji Spa now offers its guests their signature products, “Indigenous”. Each product continues the unique and authentic experiences based on culture and heritage of the Pima and Maricopa People. Products are used throughout the Spa and are also available in the retail area for purchase. These must-have products are formulated using locally sourced ingredients, revered by the Pima and Maricopa People for purification and healing properties. Product ingredients include creosote (a.k.a. chaparral and Shegoi), aloe vera, yucca, willow bark, desert mallow, rosemary, peppermint, and lavender, which are grown on-premise along the property’s Medicine Trail.

Products reviewed included the Natural Shower Gel With Organics, Organic Body Lotion, Natural Shampoo With Organics, Organic Silky Conditioner, and Soy Candle. Other products in the collection include a Body Scrub, Fizzing Bath Salt, Handmade Goat Milk Soap With Creosote, and Body and Room Mist. I enjoyed using the products. The aromas were fresh, green and energizing, with a slight medicinal note. The Shower Gel left my skin very hydrated; additional ingredient included wild indigo. The Body Lotion was extremely hydrating, non-greasy, left no residue, and was quickly absorbed; great for hands and cuticles; additional ingredients, calendula and shea butter. The Shampoo cleaned without stripping the hair; the consistency was watery, so care in dispensing must be used to avoid spillage or waste. The Conditioner is very dense, so very little was needed; leaves hair shiny. The Soy Candle emits a wonderful aroma, and is topped with creosote leaves and lavender, which add to the aromatics.

KAI RESTAURANT ~ Adding to the award winning dining experience is “The New Native American Cuisine ~ Five-Star Recipes from the Chefs of Arizona’s Kai Restaurant” Cookbook, (Marian Betancourt, Executive Chef Michael O’Dowd and Chef de Cuisine Jack Strong). This Cookbook, a must-have for any foodie or culinary history aficionado, exceeds being definitive of the culture and heritage of the Pima and Maricopa People with its treasure trove of authentic recipes, mainstay dishes passed down through the ages by these Peoples that utilized locally sourced ingredients, many grown on-premises. Also included is a glossary of ingredients that are traditional to Native and desert cultures, a shopping guide where to purchase traditional Native and specialty food items, a directory on educational resources for these cultures and those related to the Sonoran Desert, and a metric conversion chart. Kai Restaurant’s culinary wizards worked closely with the Gila River People and Farms to make sure they were not only using locally grown ingredients, but that the use of them preserved the honor of the culture and tradition, while pairing these culinary traditions with aspects of European culinary nuances that don’t detract or diminish the culture, heritage or traditions. The results are edible masterpieces by culinary wizards whose talents reveal unique and authentic taste experiences that clearly define the Peoples, their culture, traditions and heritage.

There is definitely a different vibe at Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa and its multi-award winning Aji Spa and Kai Restaurant. There is a reverence and spiritual sense wherever you walk throughout the property because of the Pima and Maricopa People, their history, their culture and their traditions.

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. She also serves on EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness Advisory Board, which is comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa. She also serves as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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(Photo credits as represented from the specific brand.)

14 SIMPLE WAYS TO REDUCE STRESS IN THE NEW YEAR

...I love a new year...fresh start...renewed energy for becoming anything...no limits...open-ended possibilities...plenty of opportunities to grow, succeed, move forward and leave behind last year's stuff...

...to celebrate the New Year, I came up with "14 Simple Ways to Reduce Stress in the New Year"...

...obviously there are more ways to de-stress than these fourteen, and while not immediately life-changing, they can help you to refocus and move forward...

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/red-room/stress-tips_b_1200982.html

...so, here's to you and whatever you do to celebrate who you are and what you hope to achieve and become in the new year...

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. She also serves on EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness Advisory Board, which is comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa, and is Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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'TIS ANY SEASON FOR GIFTING

SPA BITS

(Volume 2011.6)

~ ‘TIS ANY SEASON FOR GIFTING ~

Put the stress of the season behind you. Enjoy and treat each day as a special gift. This edition focuses on products that include skin, body care, and aromatherapy....just in time for the season!

~ ~ ~

SKINCARE

Caudalie ~ Vinoperfect Day Perfecting Fluid SPF15 ~ Since the mid1990s, Caudalie established itself as the first and foremost definitive company researching and identifying Resveratrol as a potent antioxidant within the grape (including all of its by-products and plant related) that benefited signs of aging by minimizing, diminishing or reducing them. They would go on to formulate the first-ever Vinothérapie products, while also opening the first-ever spa (Bordeaux, France) devoted to anti-aging treatments based in the science and technology of Vinothérapie. The Day Perfecting Fluid is the latest in the iconic anti-aging products. The formulation includes its proprietary Viniferine, which is derived from vine sap, papaya enzyme, Equatorial tree extracts, and UVA and UVB filters. The product was quickly absorbed, left no residue and wasn't irritating; it's aroma was very fresh and enjoyable. The hydration properties were phenomenal, and the product’s slight tint, evened-out skin appearance, leaving it radiant. www.caudalie-usa.com

Golden Ballet ~ Pearl Cream ~ This moisture cream contains powdered pearl, an ingredient revered by the Chinese herbalists for thousands of years because of its proteins, amino acids, trace elements and minerals that function as an anti-inflammatory, along with other pharmacological benefits. For skincare related, the specific benefits from pearl powder included aiding in tissue regeneration, while softening the skin; it was also said to have anti-aging properties and over time, would add luminosity to the skin’s appearance. The product had a pleasant aroma, was quickly absorbed and didn’t leave any tacky or greasy residue. I used the product for approximately three weeks; unfortunately, the texture of my skin felt grainy after each use. www.solsticemed.com

BODY & HAND CARE

Crabtree & Evelyn Gift Collection ~ Pomegranate, Argan & Grapeseed Oil Skin Replenishing Bars and Skin Smoothing Body Scrub ~ The combination of these ingredients results in an indulgent cleansing bar that tantalizes the olfactory with the crisp and juicy essences of pomegranate, citrus and fig leaf, while lavishing hydration to the skin from Argan and grapeseed oil and shea butter in both the Replenishing Bars and Body Scrub. Added bonuses with the Scrub include gentle sunflower wax beads that effectively exfoliate the skin without stripping it, and additional hydrating properties that include essential oils from pomegranate, sunflower, jojoba, peach kernel, pumpkin, and sesame seed. Antioxidant rich and your skin’s cold weather friend to combat the seasonal assaults on the skin like cold and dry air. Both products are formulated without parabens, phthalates, propylene glycol, or mineral oil. www.crabtree-evelyn.com

Crabtree & Evelyn Hand Therapy Gift Collection ~ Rosewater, Gardeners, Citron, Honey & Coriander, La Source, Lavender and Summer Hill ~ This collection is ideal for the devotee of this iconic brand’s top selling Hand Therapy formulations in a mini version of 25g. Made with the finest ingredients like macadamia nut oil, shea butter, honey, vitamin E, and high quality extracts and essential oils, each variety delivers outstanding hydration, without leaving any greasy residue; natural aromas leave a fresh hint of fragrance, without over-powering. The special Gift Collection makes an ideal “stocking stuffer”, or break down the collection of six into individual “stocking stuffers”, along with another gift treat. Who on your wish list, including yourself, doesn’t need another easy to port dry skin rescue like one of these tried and true Hand Therapy varieties? I’ve used all of these wonderful formulations over the years and love them all. www.crabtree-evelyn.com

Minus 417 Aromatic Body Peeling and Aromatic Body Butter ~ Ocean Scent ~ All products are formulated without parabens or mineral oil. Formulations are based on a naturally occurring vitamin and mineral complex that includes Dead Sea salt, sweet almond oil, lavender oil and calcium pantothenate (also known as pantothenic acid, which aids in cell regeneration). The Body Peeling gently exfoliated the skin and wasn’t irritating. The Body Butter rehydrated the skin, was quickly absorbed and didn’t leave any tacky or greasy residue. The aroma, although pleasant, smelled more fruity, almost like mango; it didn’t really have an Ocean Scent. Products are fairly new to the U.S. and have a limited range of retail availability. The company takes its name from what they state is the lowest point on Earth, 1,373 ft., or -417 meters. www.minus417.com

White Flower ~ Analgesic Balm ~ It’s easy to over do it during the stress and crunch of holiday planning, shopping and entertaining. For all your effort, you just might end up with some stiff and sore muscles. This small bottle of Balm delivers a strong dose of relief and has a pleasant aroma without making you smell like a walking medicine arsenal. The product was non-irritating as a spot treatment; when added to water, it created a soothing foot soak for tired and achy feet. www.solsticemed.com

AROMATICS FOR SELF AND HOME

Crabtree & Evelyn Gift Collections ~ Golden Topaz and Smoky Amber ~ The Golden Topaz collection is fragranced with a blend of Clementine, frankincense, and myrrh, which were warmed with subtle notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. The Smoky Amber collection is fragranced with a blend of crystallized ginger, golden amber, and cardamom, which were warmed with subtle notes of mandarin and sandalwood. Aromas are long lasting, authentic and non-irritating, a sure indicator of the high quality of each fragrance formulation. Products tried included Golden Topaz Home Fragrance Spray and Candle, and Smoky Amber Home Fragrance Oil and Candle. www.crabtree-evelyn.com

golden earth essential oil ~ euphoria essence ~ More than a fragrance, it’s an organic essential oil that calms and brings some sense of “balance” into a person’s state of wellness. This particular essential oil is part of golden earth “Perfumes from Nature” offerings. Key ingredients include jojoba oil, rose and jasmine essential oil blend, and passion fruit oil. The rose and jasmine oils are believed to bring about a sense of wellbeing, happiness and creativity. While I found euphoria essential oil essence a lovely aroma, it lacked staying power. www.goldenearth.net

Thymes Pinecone Reed Diffuser Set ~ Frasier Fir ~ Nothing conjures up holiday childhood memories than a seasonal aroma such as Frasier Fir. The set includes an adorable shaped Pinecone vessel. I was impressed with the high quality of the oils used in the fragrance and its authentic aroma, which filled several rooms with holiday memories, while transporting me to a grove of evergreen trees. Every time I walk past my fragrant Frasier Fir pinecone-shaped diffuser, I inhale a bit deeper to enjoy the seasonal headiness it emits. www.thymes.com

MISCELLANEOUS

Waterleaf ~ This new fine dining restaurant is located in LEED Certified hotel, Inn At Water’s Edge, on the campus of the College of DuPage (Wheaton, IL). Focus is on fresh, local, seasonal and organic. Culinary students are on the frontlines, while their chef professors conjure up culinary wizardry that exceeds all levels of expectation. Fine dining Waterleaf Restaurant is a rare find in this part of Chicago-land. I was there for lunch and there were only a few patrons in the beautifully appointed dining room. Unfortunately, service was very slow and I viewed it as a spin on the trending “slow food” movement, and my lunch service was over two hours; fortunately I didn’t have any other appointments that day. That said, however, my menu selections were delicious and well worth the wait. www.waterleafrestaurant.com

~ ~ ~

Anytime of the year can be a special occasion for gifting…whether the gifting is for family, friends, charity, or self. The beauty of this holiday time of Christmas, Hanukkah and the New Year is that it’s a joyful time accentuated with gifting. It doesn’t necessarily matter what the gift is, so long as it’s genuine, sincere and from the heart. It can be gift wrapped in an attractive box and tied with a shiny bow, or it can be homemade. Whatever the gift and whomever you spend the all of the holidays with, may this special time bring you much joy, peace, health and the promise of a better year in 2012. Lastly, remember to be grateful for all the blessings that you have ...these are also gifts. Until the next time….

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. She also serves on EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness Advisory Board, which is comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa. She also serves as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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(Photo credits as represented from the specific brand.)