Hola!
It's funny when you begin to write - you never know the exact path you will wind up going...so I thought I would be sitting here writing about the next set of spas I wanted to mention...and I'll get to that..in my next post ...promise :)
Tonight however I am sooo in an Oprah mood I need to write about what she has been preaching for 25 years. While I never watched her show religiously... and picked up her magazine on occasion when I wanted to actively engage in doing work on me - I was profoundly moved and cried a bunch watching her last show tonight. Not because she was leaving - but because I was actually Being Still...and in the moment and it moved me.
Funny my last entry was about Being Still - I was angry when I was writing those words - no reason to share why - but I knew instinctively it was what I needed to do to heal. It really does become clear your path when you Become Still and listen.
Doing what you love - your calling - as Oprah called it is something I've struggled with for a long time. This blog - while about those things that make me incredibly happy - was born out of the desire to find the peace and wellness needed because I often wonder if I'm living my best life.
As I take my journey to find out (is it writing, teaching, listening?) my only thought tonight is hopefully to inspire others and give back (ok Oprah didn't teach me this...lol I've always given back) knowing that the path to clarity, health and wellness begins not with the manicures, pedicures, scrubs, facials, exfoliations,or the gym memberships (ok those things help) but with the Art of Being Still and Living Your Best Life.
To all the Oprah naysayers - listen and hear (yes they are two separate things) to the message - not the messenger. :)
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
The Art of Being Still
Hola!
I hope this finds everyone well! It's lunch time here at the job that pays the bills and while I typically work through lunch, I decided I want to write today (ok so I started this yesterday and it's now dinner time but whatever...).
While this blog is mostly about spas - it really is about health and wellness and how to fit it into your lifestyle. So today I'm disucssing how and why we need to be still.
A friend of mine said if I spend so much time tending to everyone else - what do I do for me? And who tends to me? Good question...for which I had no available answer lol (for shame I know - but it is what it is).
So after a week of working like a proverbial dog to graduate students (for those who don't know, my day job I tend to the money of an art school) my feet, back and everything else hurt after standing most of the day at graduation (congrats to the Class of 2011!).
I came home and prepared the quick rememdy I love best - a hot bubble bath, some vino, my Color Nook...and read. For three hours I turned off the TV, phone(yeah I still have a land line...),cell phone (ok so I didn't turn off the cell phone but it was in the charger and not in the bathroom lol) and didn't turn on my laptop at all. I can't tell you how long it's been since I've just chilled.
While reading - it occurred to me that it's been a minute since I was actually still - still enough to hear that little voice in my head that sends me on my next path. Still enough to hear that little voice that instructs me how and what I should be doing with my life. Still enough to hear...______________ YOU fill in the blank.
All too often we are all on auto-pilot taking care of all the needs in a day...work, children, spouses, bills, relationships - simply trying to juggle it all.
I hope men are reading this too as it's not just women that have these issues. I think I'll ask some male friends - how they are handling this issue and report back :)
Being still means being in a place that you can ultimately relax your mind, body, and spirit.
We are an ever increasingly techno-mobile society and as a result some of us are chained to mobile devices, laptops, games, etc....
There really is an ART to being still. This same friend suggests I'm addicted to my IPhone which I have to admit I am. So here's a suggestion - if you can't turn off the phone (I never do...) then put it down. Turn off anything that creates noise - at least temporarily and I bet there will still be noise in your head (no you're not crazy lol) for a little while. The goal is to rid the noise in your head. How many times have you stopped, turned off the TV, getting ready for bed and your mind is STILL racing? This is what I mean by being still. Getting rid of the racing - and thinking of NOTHING.
My big sister has always meditated - and frankly I've gone back to it. It is just one way to be still. It really is hard at first - yet there's a piece of mind that I have after meditating that I can't find anywhere else - even church. Church for me is a completely different piece of mind.
The point is - stillness is important. It allows us to achieve balance which is what we most want in our very busy lives. Am I making an assumption? Do you want/need balance?
I just finsihed reading Russell Simmons New Book "Super Rich" and I would encourage you to take a glance at it.
It also helps to rememember that sometimes we all need someone to talk to...and NO not always our friends. Friends serve a speacial place in our relationships - yet sometimes we need more.
So todays' spa I'm highlighting is a mental-health spa:
The Chiron Institute offers a holistic approach to therapy and I'm an advocate for therapy - particularly those services that don't treat clients with medications.
The benefits of therapy are many. I know...I know many of us don't think we have "those" types of problems , yet I will say that I truly believe therapy can and does work.
Some of the services offered include: Feng Shui, Reiki, Chakra Balancing, Foral Vibrations, and Pain Management.
For more information: http://www.chiron-institute.com
914-384-3905
email: Chirontherapy@Chiron-Institute.com
Find what helps you to be still- to think, to dream, to wonder, but most of all be you!
Ciao!
I hope this finds everyone well! It's lunch time here at the job that pays the bills and while I typically work through lunch, I decided I want to write today (ok so I started this yesterday and it's now dinner time but whatever...).
While this blog is mostly about spas - it really is about health and wellness and how to fit it into your lifestyle. So today I'm disucssing how and why we need to be still.
A friend of mine said if I spend so much time tending to everyone else - what do I do for me? And who tends to me? Good question...for which I had no available answer lol (for shame I know - but it is what it is).
So after a week of working like a proverbial dog to graduate students (for those who don't know, my day job I tend to the money of an art school) my feet, back and everything else hurt after standing most of the day at graduation (congrats to the Class of 2011!).
I came home and prepared the quick rememdy I love best - a hot bubble bath, some vino, my Color Nook...and read. For three hours I turned off the TV, phone(yeah I still have a land line...),cell phone (ok so I didn't turn off the cell phone but it was in the charger and not in the bathroom lol) and didn't turn on my laptop at all. I can't tell you how long it's been since I've just chilled.
While reading - it occurred to me that it's been a minute since I was actually still - still enough to hear that little voice in my head that sends me on my next path. Still enough to hear that little voice that instructs me how and what I should be doing with my life. Still enough to hear...______________ YOU fill in the blank.
All too often we are all on auto-pilot taking care of all the needs in a day...work, children, spouses, bills, relationships - simply trying to juggle it all.
I hope men are reading this too as it's not just women that have these issues. I think I'll ask some male friends - how they are handling this issue and report back :)
Being still means being in a place that you can ultimately relax your mind, body, and spirit.
We are an ever increasingly techno-mobile society and as a result some of us are chained to mobile devices, laptops, games, etc....
There really is an ART to being still. This same friend suggests I'm addicted to my IPhone which I have to admit I am. So here's a suggestion - if you can't turn off the phone (I never do...) then put it down. Turn off anything that creates noise - at least temporarily and I bet there will still be noise in your head (no you're not crazy lol) for a little while. The goal is to rid the noise in your head. How many times have you stopped, turned off the TV, getting ready for bed and your mind is STILL racing? This is what I mean by being still. Getting rid of the racing - and thinking of NOTHING.
My big sister has always meditated - and frankly I've gone back to it. It is just one way to be still. It really is hard at first - yet there's a piece of mind that I have after meditating that I can't find anywhere else - even church. Church for me is a completely different piece of mind.
The point is - stillness is important. It allows us to achieve balance which is what we most want in our very busy lives. Am I making an assumption? Do you want/need balance?
I just finsihed reading Russell Simmons New Book "Super Rich" and I would encourage you to take a glance at it.
It also helps to rememember that sometimes we all need someone to talk to...and NO not always our friends. Friends serve a speacial place in our relationships - yet sometimes we need more.
So todays' spa I'm highlighting is a mental-health spa:
The Chiron Institute offers a holistic approach to therapy and I'm an advocate for therapy - particularly those services that don't treat clients with medications.
The benefits of therapy are many. I know...I know many of us don't think we have "those" types of problems , yet I will say that I truly believe therapy can and does work.
Some of the services offered include: Feng Shui, Reiki, Chakra Balancing, Foral Vibrations, and Pain Management.
For more information: http://www.chiron-institute.com
914-384-3905
email: Chirontherapy@Chiron-Institute.com
Find what helps you to be still- to think, to dream, to wonder, but most of all be you!
Ciao!
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Happy Mother's Day!!!
Hola!
It's been a minute I know but the work that pays the bills has me busier than ever! For those that don't know I started spa-ing (is that a word? probably not but I'm making it one...) many years ago and continue it primarily 'cause it feels good!
The other reason is because it keeps me sane! Working two jobs - one I absolutely love (can you guess which one?) keeps my stress level fairly high yet spa-ing is one of the ultimate ways to relax!
So in an ode to all Mothers....this entry is for you! Happy Mother's Day!! Yes I'm late - I know...unless there is a cancellation somewhere it's almost impossible to pick up the phone and get a massage (or any other type of service) tomorrow.
However there are 364 other days of the year to treat your mom - or someone else's mom, or the mother of your children...special :)
S0 - here's some of my favorite spas...you can always call on the chance there is an opening for those last minute folk that have yet to figure out what to do...
Eden Day Spa
388 Broadway, New York NY 10013
http://edenspany.com/08/#newhome
212-226-0515
This is my all time favorite spa! I love the Lava Stone Massage... you must try this!! I first discovered this spa during http://www.spaweek.com/deals/ and went because it was not far from where I worked and $50 for any massage is a steal in NYC.
That was several years ago. I've also had the Deep Tissue Massage, and the Swedish Massage. I've had the signature facial, and the Sandy Beach Scrub. There's a whole other host of services so check out the link! If you decide to go - make a mention of my blog! The technicians here are amazing! While the ambiance is incredible and by far this is where I keep coming back because the massages are great! They also have spa packages and some that include lunch.
So I suppose I should be mentioning pricing here....the thing is - prices may change frequently so it's a safer bet to check the website out yourself.
I will say this - the Lava Stone (Hot Stone) is typically the most expensive massage at a spa. Prices for the lava stone massage run approximately $120 - $200 depending on the length of time the service is performed. I've noticed they also they have express massage service which typically is under $100. The cheapest is $25 for 10 minute express massage. Now that's a great deal!
Give me your feedback if you decide to go!
Body By Brooklyn
275 Park Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11205
http://www.bodybybrooklyn.com/massage.htm
718.923.9400
Well..well..well...I'm not sure what to say about this one. The massage was mediocre - I had a Swedish Massage (does it matter that the technician was a brutha who was fone??) and ultimately what you go for, the location is under the BQE - I understand there is now parking for a mere $5...is anything free anymore in NYC??
BUT...what a fabulous ambiance this place has! The spa is also a lounge - yes a lounge as in bar and lounge...and yes I was able to sit at the bar in my robe and sip martinis (and made friends with a gentleman at the bar who brought my girlfriends and I drinks - hehe). I went with my girlfriends to this spa (I think it was for a girls spa day celebrating a birthday) and although I work a couple of blocks away, had never heard of this spa. It's definitely a unique concept and the spa is gorgeous. They offer brunch, membership passes to the wet lounge (sauna, whirlpool, steambath, pool) and a host of other services including a restaurant! They accommodate spa parties so this might be an interesting location... while the massage wasn't all that - we did have a great time here.....I'll check with my friends and see how they enjoyed it. As usual spa prices vary, but the service ranges in price as of today $95/60 min. $140/90 min.
Don't forget to mention my blog and report back what you think!
Spa Toccare - Borgata Hotel Resort and Spa
http://www.theborgata.com/Main.cfm?Category_1=6000
Atlantic City, New Jersey
609-307-1000
What a spa this is!!! I felt like royalty here! Why isn't this my favorite spa? Because it's not that close. To spend a weekend away, to relax with your man, your friends or on your lonely - this place is fabulous! I mentioned this spot before...
The service was excellent and they often have spa deals. I had a $99 massage - not a full body (It was head, upper body, and feet) for 60 minutes and I did feel a little cheated but the brutha ( I was pleasantly surprised) was excellent! If you've never had a foot massage you must run and get one now!! OMG - complete heaven!
Men...pay attention - you can do things things for the lady in your life for free!! Trust me she will thank you for it!
Most services here are over $100 so it is rather pricey. What caught my eye however is for $275 for 80 minutes you can have the massage in your room! Talk about luxurious! One word of caution - there's a hefty price to pay here if you have not canceled your treatment by 6:30 the DAY BEFORE...it's 100% of the service!
Sage Spa
405 Fifth Avenue 2nd Fl.
Brooklyn, New York 11215
http://www.sagebrooklyn.com/specials.html
718-832-2030
In compiling my research I can across this spa - especially for a Sorority member of mine who lives in the neighborhood of Park Slope :) While I have not been to this spa - I love the neighborhood and will be booking an appointment next week! Who wants to come with me? What I like immediately about the website is the calming colors (say what you want aesthetics are important) and the offer a variety of specials. I'm especially interested in the Sinus Aromatherapy for $40...I've spent more on less...I'll report back!
As always, if you've been to the spas listed I'd love to hear your reviews...and if you go...don't forget to mention my blog!
Happy Mother's Day!!!
Ciao
Oh - BTW if if you like what you read - please follow me and leave comments letting me know what you think!
It's been a minute I know but the work that pays the bills has me busier than ever! For those that don't know I started spa-ing (is that a word? probably not but I'm making it one...) many years ago and continue it primarily 'cause it feels good!
The other reason is because it keeps me sane! Working two jobs - one I absolutely love (can you guess which one?) keeps my stress level fairly high yet spa-ing is one of the ultimate ways to relax!
So in an ode to all Mothers....this entry is for you! Happy Mother's Day!! Yes I'm late - I know...unless there is a cancellation somewhere it's almost impossible to pick up the phone and get a massage (or any other type of service) tomorrow.
However there are 364 other days of the year to treat your mom - or someone else's mom, or the mother of your children...special :)
S0 - here's some of my favorite spas...you can always call on the chance there is an opening for those last minute folk that have yet to figure out what to do...
Eden Day Spa
388 Broadway, New York NY 10013
http://edenspany.com/08/#newhome
212-226-0515
This is my all time favorite spa! I love the Lava Stone Massage... you must try this!! I first discovered this spa during http://www.spaweek.com/deals/ and went because it was not far from where I worked and $50 for any massage is a steal in NYC.
That was several years ago. I've also had the Deep Tissue Massage, and the Swedish Massage. I've had the signature facial, and the Sandy Beach Scrub. There's a whole other host of services so check out the link! If you decide to go - make a mention of my blog! The technicians here are amazing! While the ambiance is incredible and by far this is where I keep coming back because the massages are great! They also have spa packages and some that include lunch.
So I suppose I should be mentioning pricing here....the thing is - prices may change frequently so it's a safer bet to check the website out yourself.
I will say this - the Lava Stone (Hot Stone) is typically the most expensive massage at a spa. Prices for the lava stone massage run approximately $120 - $200 depending on the length of time the service is performed. I've noticed they also they have express massage service which typically is under $100. The cheapest is $25 for 10 minute express massage. Now that's a great deal!
Give me your feedback if you decide to go!
Body By Brooklyn
275 Park Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11205
http://www.bodybybrooklyn.com/massage.htm
718.923.9400
Well..well..well...I'm not sure what to say about this one. The massage was mediocre - I had a Swedish Massage (does it matter that the technician was a brutha who was fone??) and ultimately what you go for, the location is under the BQE - I understand there is now parking for a mere $5...is anything free anymore in NYC??
BUT...what a fabulous ambiance this place has! The spa is also a lounge - yes a lounge as in bar and lounge...and yes I was able to sit at the bar in my robe and sip martinis (and made friends with a gentleman at the bar who brought my girlfriends and I drinks - hehe). I went with my girlfriends to this spa (I think it was for a girls spa day celebrating a birthday) and although I work a couple of blocks away, had never heard of this spa. It's definitely a unique concept and the spa is gorgeous. They offer brunch, membership passes to the wet lounge (sauna, whirlpool, steambath, pool) and a host of other services including a restaurant! They accommodate spa parties so this might be an interesting location... while the massage wasn't all that - we did have a great time here.....I'll check with my friends and see how they enjoyed it. As usual spa prices vary, but the service ranges in price as of today $95/60 min. $140/90 min.
Don't forget to mention my blog and report back what you think!
Spa Toccare - Borgata Hotel Resort and Spa
http://www.theborgata.com/Main.cfm?Category_1=6000
Atlantic City, New Jersey
609-307-1000
What a spa this is!!! I felt like royalty here! Why isn't this my favorite spa? Because it's not that close. To spend a weekend away, to relax with your man, your friends or on your lonely - this place is fabulous! I mentioned this spot before...
The service was excellent and they often have spa deals. I had a $99 massage - not a full body (It was head, upper body, and feet) for 60 minutes and I did feel a little cheated but the brutha ( I was pleasantly surprised) was excellent! If you've never had a foot massage you must run and get one now!! OMG - complete heaven!
Men...pay attention - you can do things things for the lady in your life for free!! Trust me she will thank you for it!
Most services here are over $100 so it is rather pricey. What caught my eye however is for $275 for 80 minutes you can have the massage in your room! Talk about luxurious! One word of caution - there's a hefty price to pay here if you have not canceled your treatment by 6:30 the DAY BEFORE...it's 100% of the service!
Sage Spa
405 Fifth Avenue 2nd Fl.
Brooklyn, New York 11215
http://www.sagebrooklyn.com/specials.html
718-832-2030
In compiling my research I can across this spa - especially for a Sorority member of mine who lives in the neighborhood of Park Slope :) While I have not been to this spa - I love the neighborhood and will be booking an appointment next week! Who wants to come with me? What I like immediately about the website is the calming colors (say what you want aesthetics are important) and the offer a variety of specials. I'm especially interested in the Sinus Aromatherapy for $40...I've spent more on less...I'll report back!
As always, if you've been to the spas listed I'd love to hear your reviews...and if you go...don't forget to mention my blog!
Happy Mother's Day!!!
Ciao
Oh - BTW if if you like what you read - please follow me and leave comments letting me know what you think!
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