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Live Like You're Traveling

Ideas to Turn your Everyday into An Exotic Adventure

June 15, 2017

Get Back to Your Roots: A Women's Wellness Retreat in Amsterdam

by Alla Feldman in CONNECT


The Green Living Lab - Photography by Melody Rae

The Green Living Lab - Photography by Melody Rae

The Green Living Lab - Photography by Melody Rae

The Green Living Lab - Photography by Melody Rae

Connecting with others is one of the elements we need to have in order to be able to "Live Like You're Traveling" and feel good and balanced. In a way what has been happening over the last years is that less and less we truly connect with one another. Funny enough with the overload of social media interactions, technology that renders us receptacles to an endless flux of communication... we find ourselves alone in the end not knowing who to go to when we really need help with something.  

Similarly in a way to getting dehydrated because we no longer feel thirst due to our sedentary lifestyles, the same way we no longer understand that human connection is missing in our lives because of all the supposed always on "interactions". 

Well it's time to press stop. It's time to go back to our roots and to respect the way we have been built. I remember the Saturdays spent as a young girl hanging around the kitchen where my grandmother, my aunt and my mother would stand together mixing various delicious things in the many pots, preparing for a family dinner. My grandmother who would give advice. My aunt who would give her advice rather forcefully! And my mom who usually would give a contradictory opinion while giving me a little wink. Then all three would look at me and at seven years old I was expected to contribute to the discussion and in a way mediate them. I treasure these memories where I felt part of a team, helping to peel the potatoes, or form the dumplings... and also be listened to as I offered up thoughts in the circle of women. 

Think back to the last time you truly connected with another person. Face to face, in person. What about to ask someone for advice? We love to show a smile, and put happy pictures on our instagram, but where do we go when we really need help? Do we quietly google for the answer? Do we hesitate to call (or knock on the door) of our best friend? 

It should not be this way. I had a wonderful chance to attend a very special event in the heart of Amsterdam with a group of women to connect and share. Share the challenges we face as mothers, wives, people... exchange wisdom and advice. In person! Uninterrupted. For a whole afternoon.

Shay and Letitia brought us all together in an amazing setting, The Green Living Lab in the heart of Amsterdam. A surprising location giving you a feeling of getting a way from it all to a lush oasis of nature and calm. 

We started out with mingling and getting to know each other a bit. 

womens wellness retreat amsterdam
lady fruit cake amsterdam

Heavenly bites from Lady Fruit Cake... 

We then headed into the glass dome and Shay and Letitia introduced the retreat program and the meaning of wellness. This is also an interesting topic. Wellness is not a prescriptive one size fits all protocol. It is a continuous journey of keeping balance adding and subtracting what we need more of (or less) depending on the time of day, season or ourselves personally. The big point is that wellness is a fluid state that requires continuous maintaining. It's not something we 'reach' and then forget about.

And then... we danced... wild... led by Juel the Ladylicious herself. 

Ladyliciousness

She told us to just get up and dance for ten minutes 3 times a day. Now that's a prescription! What a great way to add some MOVE element to your day. It's not about 'wasting time' moving around helps your blood to circulate, which in turn helps your organs function well, to digest better, and a great mood booster! What music to dance to? Your choice! 

Speaking of taking time for yourself. I got a chance to give away some sneak preview samples of my new wellness brand that's coming out soon Of The Islands. It's all about being strong and keeping ourselves balanced with minerals by taking regular baths with pure magnesium salt. You get to relax for twenty minutes, as well as soak in the needed magnesium to keep us at our top form so we can save the world.

of the islands bath salt
of the islands bath salt

We then were led in a mindfulness session. Now, being an aries, sitting still and not thinking about anything is next to impossible, but then again, being an aries, I welcome impossible things because well - I'm stubborn. Marjorie Lumet got me to chill out if only for a few minutes. It's amazing how your brain is able to get stuff done when we're not continuously interrupting it with nonsense. But me personally, I will not be attempting sit still in sessions unless led by professionals like Marjorie.  

The next lady that shared was Sara. Strangely enough I have heard about Sara through mutual friends for years. So many times I wanted to pop her a note and say, hey let's meet. And somehow years went by and it never happened. We finally met! (Please go message that person that's been on your list, right away!). Sara talked to us about her own personal journey of overcoming deep seated prejudices we have about ourselves and our own abilities. Again, things we don't even realize. Why do we like to shoot ourselves in the foot so much? And more importantly how to stop doing that. 

Eva shared how to say "no" and that saying no actually means saying "yes" to something else. It is about making a choice. Seems like common sense but a simple truth like this is very easily forgotten. It takes conscious acknowledgement of looking at your life or at your day and making choices, what stays? and what goes! Maybe saying no to 20 minutes of mindless scrolling through social media can mean saying yes to a coffee date with a friend, or a run in the park, or....?

What I walked away with after this Wellness Retreat is that next time I have a question, I will not google, I will first look at the circle of wisdom around me and reach out to one of my friends, or my aunt, or another mom I always see while picking up the kids. Yes I say, to going back to our roots and respecting the way we were built, I mean "created". 

See Shay's lovely post about the Wellness Retreat. 

Photo Credits: The gorgeous Melodie Rae who is also working on a new project called The Vixen Effect that helps us women to reconnect with our feminine sexy side. ;) 

Melody Rae

In partnership with "Women's Wellness Retreat" and "Of The Islands". All opinions are my own. 


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TAGS: amsterdam, Wellness Retreat, of the islands


April 24, 2017

*Weekend Pass* to Rediscovering Venice Beach with Helena Sung

by Mu-Hsien Hsieh Lee in EXPLORE, CONNECT


Photos by: Helena Sung

Photos by: Helena Sung

Photos by: Helena Sung

Photos by: Helena Sung



Are you conflicted about where you live? Always swearing you'd move when you get the chance?  Then you're like us and many others who from time to time need to do things to remind us why we love our city that has come to feel all too familiar to us. For Helena, she swore she was done with LA but life had other plans for her. This weekend, Helena showed us how she continues to romance Venice Beach.

Meet your love where you live neighbor, Helena of @helenasungxoxo! 

---

helena_sung_xoxo_venice_sign

How I fell in love with Venice Beach all over again.

I grew up in Los Angeles and moved away years ago swearing that I’d never live in LA again. Never say never! After living in San Francisco, Seoul, and Manhattan, I moved back to LA last year to be closer to family. One of my favorite neighborhoods in LA is Venice Beach – a funky beach town full of surfers, skaters, and amazing sunset views, like this one with the iconic Venice sign.

• • •

What’s your favorite way to start the day?

Mine is going down to Venice Pier just before sunset to photograph surfers catching early morning waves. I feel such a sense of peace and tranquility being at the ocean as the sun rises and before the city wakes up. It’s my morning pre-work meditation.

• • •

kay_marshalldesign_hotel_erwin_rooftop.jpg

One of the many blessings in moving back to Los Angeles is re-connecting with old friends who are inspiring and creative.

My friend Kay @kay_m_s is a fashion designer and consultant with her own company @marshalldesignla. She recently started a local creative collective for business women to network (in person!) and support eachother. The rooftop at Hotel Erwin is one of our favorite local places to unwind, brainstorm, and watch the sun set!

• • •

4 Venice_Artists and Fleas Outdoor Market.jpg

I recently discovered Artists & Fleas, a bimonthly outdoor market featuring local designers and vintage!

It’s definitely worth a visit to shop all the wonderful stalls at the market, like @katiedeanjewelry

• • •

Just dance!

The Artists & Fleas market is so cool they have their own resident DJ @chromequeen of @redlightvinyl!! She has the coolest style and plays the best music that you can’t help dancing to!

• • •

venice_sunset

Whenever I can, I try to catch the sunset.

The spectacular colors framed against the palm trees sometimes have me feeling like I’m on a movie set. But it’s just another night in Venice Beach. Thanks for letting me share my little corner of the world with you! I hope you are exploring where you live and finding many things to love.
 

~ Your Love Where You Live Neighbor, 
Helen of @helenasungxoxo

---
For more ways to connect with the people and world around you,
get everyday ideas @LiveLikeYoureTraveling

TAGS: weekend pass


March 22, 2017

Everyday Bucket Lists to Break the Routine

by Mu-Hsien Hsieh Lee in EXPLORE, MOVE, CONNECT, FLOW, SAVOR


Pippin Hill Farm & Winery... check!

Pippin Hill Farm & Winery... check!

Pippin Hill Farm & Winery... check!

Pippin Hill Farm & Winery... check!

chicago_food_travel_photographer_muhsien_SMALL2.jpg

You know the feeling and sense of accomplishment that comes from crossing items off a list. However, this isn't the kind of list where you're just "getting stuff done." Rather, with each item crossed off you'll know that you have enriched your life with experiences. So make good use of the precious time that you have.

Why do you need a bucket list? I mean, isn't it just a list? 
Much like anything else, it's about the approach and what you put into it that makes it unique. But a good bucket list has a few key elements. 

• • •

4 Elements to Creating a Good Bucket list

1 - There is a sense of time to accomplish them by
2 - Requires self-reflection to dig into what you want to do, and what's important to you.
3 - Is created before you need it, so when the moment strikes, you don't have to think.  
4 - Is documented and easy to access, to review, add and cross off from. 

• • •

Bucket List Ideas for Common Ruts

RESTAURANT BUCKET LIST
Fixes: "Ordering from the same 2 places nearby, AGAIN?" 

RECIPES / GROCERY BUCKET LIST
Fixes: " I am so bored with the same 5 dishes I make. "

TV/MOVIE BUCKET LIST
Fixes: "I can't believe we are watching this crap" syndrome.

NAUGHTY BUCKET LIST
Fixes: "Let me guess. I know exactly how this is going to go down."

PARTIES/GATHERINGS BUCKET LIST
Fixes: "I haven't seen "so and so" friends in forever!"

THINGS TO LEARN BUCKET LIST
Fixes: "I am so uninspired lately."

WEEKENDER BUCKET LIST
Fixes: " There's nothing to do."

JUST A TUES NIGHT BUCKET LIST
Fixes: "I haven't felt spontaneous in a long time."

Tools: I use Anylist, a checklist app that makes it easy to create shared lists. This way, all the lists are in one place and you can be alerted when someone adds something new...which just means more things to look forward to. Yay! 

Which kind of bucket list would be good for you? Let us know! 

---
Photos by: Mu-Hsien Hsieh

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January 1, 2017

10 Habits To Break For A Limitless 2017

by Alla Feldman in EXPLORE, SAVOR


(Photo: Raul Alberto Reyes)

(Photo: Raul Alberto Reyes)

(Photo: Raul Alberto Reyes)

(Photo: Raul Alberto Reyes)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Every year at that magical moment when clock strikes 12 even if we were not thinking about new year resolutions, I know that somehow a thought probably flashed in your mind about the kind of year you'd like to have... It did for me. 

Whatever you are thinking and cooking in your mind take inspiration from travel and the kind of person you are when you're on a trip. Anything is possible! Let's stay in the travel mindset and here are 10 habits to conciously break to be LIMITLESS in 2017: 
 

10. Don't wait for the weekend!

A week has 7 days. ANY day is good enough for a party. Any day is good enough for a surprising move... #cheatonyourweekend and infuse your everyday with interesting activities! Lunch time visit to a museum, or a free concert, or treat yourself to a desert at a cafe just because. 

9. There is no bad weather!

Don't think that just because it's raining or cold or grey that your life must stop. Go and buy yourself a proper outdoor jacket and boots and #getoutside!!! When we travel we go sightseeing no matter the weather and so should it be during the regular days. Go for a hike, stroll, canoe ride, walk on the beach, eliminate "bad weather" as a concept and there'll be nothing to stop you.

8. Don't be spontaneous!

Look, spontaneous little adventures happen in movies but if you want to do exciting and interesting things YOU MUST PLAN THEM! You can't sit around waiting for fun things to "spontaneously" happen, go and make them happen! Romantic dinners? Meeting new people? Learning something new? All takes planning. Make a reservation at that cute place you've been meaning to try. Find a workshop to learn how to... make yogurt, build a table, trim a bonsai... Plan plan plan! And you will pleasantly realize that spontaneous adventures happen to those who plan ahead. 

7. Don't think you know who you are!

When was the last time you surprised yourself? Get to know the you you've never seen before. Do something out of character, test a limit. Try something you've never considered as "your thing". Is it skiing? Is it a drive in a sports car. Maybe a sailing lesson? Job change? Or simply a dress the color you never thought you could pull of. Put yourself in a new situation and perhaps you will surprise yourself.  

6. Presents are not just for special occasions!

When we travel we like to browse an interesting boutique and perhaps we discover a little treasure that we want to have. We also think of our friends and family and bring them a little something. It's a bit like a mini celebration. Well. Keep on doing that! Once in a while get yourself a present, yes ask for a gift wrap! Get a little surprise gift for your friend, or your mom or your...? This will make it possible to turn any day into a "special occasion".

5. Don't think you know your loved ones!

Keep on getting to know them. Invite them to do something they've never done. Bring your kids to opera or somewhere else that you enjoy but you don't think they would. You never know but you just might discover something you have in common but never knew. Do new things together and make new discoveries that you can share. It's like traveling together but... at home.  

4. Forget your age!

Yes that's right. Let's stop compartmentalizing ourselves by age brackets. What is that!!?? If you're young you can still participate in life in a meaningful and impactful way. And now I turn around and say the same to those of us over the age of "young". Keep on learning new things. Don't be afraid to teach. Love! Run! Read. Cook. Play. Dive. Dream. Swim. Dance.

3. Forget your name!

Our "persona", character, career, our "name" we've built up over the years if left unchecked can corrall us into a narrow path. Sometimes we are afraid to take a risk or deviate from what others expect from us. When we travel we are free of these pre-set values. We are free to reinvent ourselves anyway we want. So forget your name and reinvent yourself whenever you want!  

2. Resting isn't for the lazy! 

In order to be truly limitless and move mountains you must be in the right shape physically and mentally! In order to care and love others you must have energy to do that. REST! Recharge yourself regularly. Take care of your body, take time out to rest your mind. Enjoy the time to yourself guilt free. If you are not in top shape the world around you can't benefit from your mind, strength and love.  

1. Don't assume others will do it! 

And at NUMBER 1! It's all on YOU! Is there a business idea you've been kicking around? Maybe a huge world issue you've been thinking about... If you want something done about it YOU should do it. Don't worry about getting it all done, just pick a bite that you can do on your own to kickstart your idea or to tackle that big world issue. Don't assume someone else will get it done, or that someone else is more "qualified". Don't think of how to complete it just how to start it. And then... JUST START! 

We wish you a LIMITLESS 2017!!! 


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December 13, 2016

EXPLORE: Wadden Islands - My Inspiration

by Alla Feldman in EXPLORE


15538425_1831717597043280_6877220622129168384_n.jpg
15538425_1831717597043280_6877220622129168384_n.jpg

When I moved to the Netherlands of course I promised myself to #travelmyownbackyard and so we did. (Still do!) I have gotten to know that my new home is very diverse with so many gems to discover. A country that you can drive the whole length of in a couple of hours is actually full of surprises. One place that has really affected me is the Wadden Sea. An Unesco protected site of wonderous tiny islands. Windswept. Bravely staring into the North Sea. They are along the migratory path for birds and as the result a place where one can really witness the circle of life as it is born in the sea and goes on with the tides.

I was awestruck by these islands right away and for the past years I have been falling more and more in love with them and the Dutch North Sea Coast. The idea for a new brand began almost two years ago, even before I knew what product I wanted to offer.

For now I share with you photos of my very first trip to Ameland, one of the Wadden Islands... 

upload.jpeg
upload.jpeg
upload.jpeg

TAGS: Alla's notes


June 18, 2016

*Weekend Pass* to Self-discovery, Healing & Service with Maria of the Culture-ist

by Mu-Hsien Hsieh Lee in CONNECT


Maria Russo

Maria Russo

Maria Russo

Maria Russo

One thing that connects us all in the #LiveLikeYoureTraveling community, is how we’ve all been touched and changed by travel. This month’s weekend pass is led by Maria Russo, who started traveling at the age of 16. It was then that she began to dream of a life filled with adventures across the globe and in her early 20s she began embarking on trips that inspired her on such a profound level that those experiences actually shaped who she is and what she does today. Follow along as she takes us on her journey through self discovery, healing, spiritual awakening and service.

Meet your changemaker neighbor, Maria of @theCultureist and @HumanityUnified! 

---
PHOTOS BY: LIFEDEZIGNED & ARNELLE

Maria_thecultureist_livelikeyouretravelin2.jpg

For me, travel has always been a means to self-discovery and reflection.

Each trip I take brings new perspective to my life. My journeys in different countries inspired me to launch TheCultureist.com and later, after encountering the great juxtaposition between rich and poor in countries like South Africa, India, Guatemala and Rwanda, I founded Humanity Unified.

• • •

Maria_thecultureist_livelikeyouretravelin3.jpg

We all need a place to rest and to heal from the wounds life inevitably inflicts upon us.

I found my place of healing in Africa. Whether it be Rwanda, Kenya or South Africa, a few days in the bush brings clarity and respite. The stillness, overwhelming sense of calm and sheer beauty of nature forces me to be present and mindful bringing a feeling of renewal and appreciation for life.

• • •

Maria_thecultureist_livelikeyouretravelin4.jpg

The more I traveled the more I knew that there is something greater out there.

A bigger picture; a connection; a network of sorts that links us all – sun, moon, sea, animals, humans – together. And now when I travel I look for it. I found it in the trees in Sri Lanka, in the moon in Bali, in the laughter echoing from children playing in a rural village in the Amazon…it’s in everything and in everyone. We just need to be present to feel it.

• • •

Maria_thecultureist_livelikeyouretravelin5.jpg

The greatest thing I have ever done is make the choice to live a life of service to others.

I have been fortunate because I was given the opportunity to see the world while creating stories for The Culture-ist. I have seen the great abundance that exists and I have seen the need. The idea for Humanity Unified, came about after a trip to Rwanda that changed my life. It was there that I realized it was time that I begin dedicating my life to a more meaningful purpose. A year and four months later, Humanity Unified Int’l was formed. The nonprofit organization works to empower poor communities to rise above poverty through education, food security projects and economic opportunities. We start by investing in women.

• • •

Maria_thecultureist_livelikeyouretravelin6.jpg

Traveling is like dancing.

When we feel life’s energy - its music - we can flow with it, let go and move with the different rhythms, harmonies and songs this great planet plays for us. It’s only then that we can begin to hear our own heart strings and follow our dreams.  

~ Your Traveling Changemaker Neighbor, 
Maria of @thecultureist
& @humanityunified

---
For more ways to connect with the people and world around you,
get everyday ideas @LiveLikeYoureTraveling


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TAGS: weekend pass


June 9, 2016

7 Gold Shimmer Body Oils to Indulge In

by Alla Feldman


Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse OR

Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse OR

Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse OR

Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse OR

live_like_youre_traveling_alla_SMALL1 (1).jpg

When the first summer sun rays come out and playfully relay across all services warming up the bricks in the walls and the tile under our bare feet, playing hide and seek among the leaves on the treetops.  We look up with our eyes closed warming our faces and exhale as if we were holding our breath waiting for this very moment. Ah, yes summer is magic! 

When we are just in the beginning of the summer season and months of glorious warmth and sunshine stretch in front of us, it may be tempting to just go with the flow and abandon ourselves to chance. Of course if you've been reading us for a while, you know that to Live Like You're Traveling take preparation. It's about getting in the right frame of mind to enjoy the summer. To create and savor the moments. 

One thing we can do is to savor summer everyday as if each day is unique. We can take cue from our northern neighbors from Scandinavia, who after the months of winter darkness frame their days and lifestyle around summer sun to give themselves as much enjoyment as possible to last through the year until again the sun once again comes up high in the Nordic sky.    

Three years ago (has it been so long!?) we wrote about the gold shimmer oils and it's time to do a refresh of IDEA114 with an updated list. 

• • •

The 7 Natural Gold Shimmer Oils To Savor The Summer With

I am still using my beloved Nuxe oil. 

Still loving Omorovizca oil from Budapest

and Elemental Herbology from England. 

From Estonia, shimmer oil from the brand Joik is bringing us the Nordic tradition of an almost reverence of the summer sun. The brand is named after the ancient form of song of the Sami people.

Lovely gold shimmer for your hair? From Australia, the hair stylist Kevin Murphy created a non "oily" but nourishing and repairing shimmer oil spray. His products are made with great attention not only to the ingredients but also to the sustainable farming practices. (You can buy it in a salon in many major cities.)

Mystical sunstone and citrine oil from the USA. 

And how about just dusting yourself with goddess dust! Or you can mix in a bit of this shimmer powder into any organic body oil you're already using for your own semi - DIY shimmer oil!

 gold shimmer body powder
 gold shimmer body oil
 organic gold shimmer oil   
 shimmer oil for hair

Now that you're all shimmered up, it's time to go outside and glow in the sunshine!

• • •

How to SAVOR the summer rays even during a busy work week? - Here are 7 ideas!

1 - Grab your morning coffee (or tea, or juice or smoothie, you get the point) and bring it outside with you. Find a sunny spot, stand and sip your drink. Notice your surroundings in the morning light, look up! (SAVOR + SAVOR)

2 - During lunch time, grab your co-worker, maybe one from a totally different department and invite them for a little lunch time stroll. You both get some fresh air, and get to know what each one does and exchange ideas. You will both go back to the office with renewed creative ideas! (SAVOR + CONNECT) 

3 - Pack a picnic lunch and head out to a park near your work, or a fountain, or near a waterfront, or simply near a big tree. (SAVOR + EXPLORE + NATURE) 

4 - Go street art hunting. Grab a camera (or let's be real, your phone) and go for a walk trying to notice as much street art as you can! You can even google ahead of time for some street art spots near you. (SAVOR + EXPLORE)

5 - Make a date, go to an outdoor terrace, even just for one drink or a desert, have some actual face time with someone special. (SAVOR + CONNECT)

6 - Get out of the train or the bus a stop earlier either going to work or coming back. Walk the extra way!
(SAVOR + MOVE)

7 - Go sunset chasing! Simply look for the best view point to observe the sunset, a walk on the beach? Or a rooftop!? (SAVOR + NATURE)

 


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TAGS: Savor, Summer Beauty, natural beauty, organic beauty, organic skincare, summer


April 9, 2016

Be Healthful Retreat & Four Seasons - 5 Natural "Recipes" for that Island Getaway Feeling

by Mu-Hsien Hsieh Lee in SAVOR, NATURE, EXPLORE


Signs of pampering at Four Seasons Chicago

Signs of pampering at Four Seasons Chicago

Signs of pampering at Four Seasons Chicago

Signs of pampering at Four Seasons Chicago

Oh wait...relaxing is a purposeful activity? Due to the scheduled down time when traveling, we actually allow ourselves to choose activities that help us to slow down and enjoy the moment. When we're in a greater state of awareness, we tend to focus more on what we're putting in our bodies, eating well and re-fueling, which often sets the stage for personal insights and reflection. This very sentiment was at the core of a BeHealthful retreat I recently participated in held at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago. Our intimate group of women learned beauty secrets from various cultures during a weekend stay with wellness workshops and activities.

Inspired by our weekend's activities which incorporated LLYT concepts of looking to nature for nourishment and beauty, and slowing down to savor more in our everyday life, I've pulled together 5 natural "recipes." These recipes can serve as rituals that will help you getaway more often and prepare your home spa so that you're able to channel Bali or the Caribbean at a moment's notice.  

Let’s savor together…shall we?  

---
PHOTOS: MU-HSIEN INC

1 - Wake Up to a Stunning Water View

Wake up to a room with a view...bonus points if it has a view of the water. Is there a stunning lake, river or ocean near you? Make use of what ever body of water might be near you and feel a whole world away.

Be Healthful Retreat & Four Seasons Chicago - Natural Recipes for Island Getaway Feel
04_muhsien_livelikeyouretraveling10.jpg
04_muhsien_livelikeyouretraveling4.jpg

Behealthful Retreat guests were spoiled with lake view rooms, green juices in the morning, a detox box and other goodies to support a cleansing and nourishing weekend at the hotel and back at home.  

Getaway Recipe: Add Scenic View of Nature Near You + High Thread Count sheets + Abundant Fluffy Pillows, mix... and savor!

*Spa Day bonus: If you choose any of the Four Season spa treatments, even just a mani/pedi, as long as it's a 50 min. service, you'll have access to the pool, steam sauna, whirlpool, fitness center etc. Indulge and make a day of it with a friend!  Book a spa service here.

• • •

2 - Indulge the Senses with Nature's Bouquets

Nothing transports my mind to a beachy spa more quickly than taking in intoxicating wafts of essential oils. Before I even step out of bed, my morning ritual starts with a spritz of aromatherapy spray on my face while I take in a deep <inhale>. The cool mist and vibrant scents instantly refreshes and gives me a spa moment...everyday.

Be Healthful Retreat & Four Seasons Chicago - Natural Recipes for Island Getaway Feel

Our DIY Aromatherapy Workshop was Lead by Sarah Baker, a plant-based nutrition & health coach and our event co-host. Much like any good flavor profile, I learned that in creating an ideal essential oil blend, 3 types of notes should be considered.

1 - A Top Note, Energizing and cleansing (ex. Peppermint, Eucalyptus)
2 - Middle Note, Robust for focus and healing (ex. Nutmeg, Frankensense)
3 - Low Note, Warm and calming, (ex. Cedarwood, Sandalwood)

Revitalizing Spray Recipe:
4 drops Grapefruit Essential Oil
5 drops Lemon Essential Oil
4 drops Peppermint Oil
Distilled water

Fill a 2 oz spray bottle nearly full of distilled water. Add essential oils. Shake to blend. Option to include a few drops of vegetable glycerine helps to attract moisture and assists in absorption of the essential oils into the skin. Start with less and slowly adjust the intensity of the scent desired.  

*Tip: Keep one by the bed, in your purse or your office desk. Good for whenever you need a pick-me-up!

• • •

3 - Sip on a Nourishing Island Drink

Tropical vacation days almost always begin with an exotic juice or smoothie. Vibrant colors and wellness boosting ingredients will perk up your mood and fuel you for your day's adventures. *Bonus, fun smoothies pair well with annoying chores too. Ugh, need to organize that closet? Fix yourself a drink and watch how things almost become <gasp>...fun?! 

Be Healthful Retreat & Four Seasons Chicago - Natural Recipes for Island smoothies
Be Healthful Retreat & Four Seasons Chicago - Natural Recipes for health breakfast

How adorable are these juices? And they tasted so delightfully smooth and complex in flavor. Four Seasons's Chef Michael Ross, proves that healthy food can actually be exciting and maybe even sexy? He prepared these juices to accompany a bento box assortment of healthy but sumptuous bites. On the menu for breakfast: Kale & Egg White tacos / Smoked Salmon Tartine / Quinoa Porridge / Greek Watermelon Yogurt with Chia & Marinated Watermelon. 

Get that tropical beachside feeling with these smoothie recipes:

Tropical Recipe
½ ea mexican papaya; chopped
1 ea mango; chopped
¼ ea pineapple; chopped
1 tsp agave
½ cup greek yogurt
½ cup bahia juice
1 cup ice
1 scoop protein powder

Acai Blueberry Smoothie Recipe
1 cup blueberries
½ pkg acai berries
1 tbl protein powder
½ cup greek yogurt
1 cup ice
1 tbl agave
1 tbl cranberry and pomegranate reduction
 


• • •

4 - Take a Cooking Class Featuring Exotic Ingredients

Get that "WOW, I made this?!" feeling and learn to use ingredients that are outside of your usual grocery list rotation. Working with exotic ingredients will naturally connect you to new tastes and cultures around the world. *Bonus if they remind you of places you've traveled to, or want to visit soon!

Be Healthful Retreat & Four Seasons Chicago - Natural Recipes for exotic Peeky Toe Crab Salad
Be Healthful Retreat & Four Seasons Chicago - Natural Recipes for exotic Peeky Toe Crab Salad
Be Healthful Retreat & Four Seasons Chicago - Natural Recipes for exotic Peeky Toe Crab Salad

We headed back into the kitchen where Chef Mike had prepared a demonstration for us to make a refreshing salad suited for spring and reminds me of the East Coast. I loved learning how to "segment" a grapefruit and other prep techniques. It was also my first time plating using the "swoosh" effect! I've included the recipe here so you can welcome spring into your home and try it out yourself.

Peekytoe Crab Salad Recipe

Pea Purée
3 cups fresh english peas
1 quart fresh spinach
3 avocados
24 oz veggie stock

Boil vegetable stock in a small rondeau. Add peas and cook until tender, but still bright green. Add spinach to wilt. Season with salt, no pepper. Place the mixture with avocado and purée hot until smooth. Pass through a chinois and then cool over an ice bath in med. sized bowls. 

Crab Salad
#3 Fresh Crab, picked through
5 oz mayonnaise
35 grams minced washed preserved lemon
1 cup minced chive

Delicately with gloves, mix with your hands to ensure you don't break up the large pieces of crab.

Grapefruit
3 grapefruits segmented with a sharp knife (reserve the juice) 
30 grams of sugar
1 cup grapefruit juice from segments plus water

Boil water/juice with sugar to dissolve and pour over grapefruit segments in an ice bowl. Allow time to cool down. 

Garnish
"Window pane" radish slices
French snap peas and micro greens
Finishing olive oil

• • •

5 - Slowww Down with a DIY Body Scrub

Reward yourself after a long day of work or adventures! Focus on soothing your body with a much deserved exfoliating self-massage. Allow this act of self-care to bring you back to center, and to be in the moment, daily.

Be Healthful Retreat & Four Seasons Chicago - Natural Recipes for a DIY sugar body scrub
Be Healthful Retreat & Four Seasons Chicago - Natural Recipes for a DIY sugar body scrub

Vanilla Body Scrub Recipe:
1/2 cup Brown Sugar
1/2 cup Coconut Oil
2-3 drops of Vanilla Essential Oil

Create this simple scrub by mixing ingredients in a bowl with a spoon or gloved hands to help melt the coconut oil. Massage with loving intention to exfoliate your body while in the shower. Rinse to remove excess.
- - -
For more healthy recipes, DIY Home Spa Ideas, and updates on future BeHealthful retreats, head over to balancedbabe.com.


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March 19, 2016

IDEA278: Inspiring Views & Tips for An Enjoyable Hot Air Balloon Ride in Napa Valley

by Mu-Hsien Hsieh Lee in EXPLORE, NATURE


Early morning, Napa

Early morning, Napa

Early morning, Napa

Early morning, Napa

You'd think that a little basket and some fabric would make for a bumpy ride. But before I could look up while fumbling with my camera bag, we were already floating up into the air! Our lift off was so gentle. Despite being able to visually see that we were getting higher, I could barely sense that we were moving. I had always heard that going on an hot air balloon ride was a must in Napa Valley...and now I know why. 

We were lucky enough to get the one clear day out of a series of rainy days and up in the open air, it was peaceful and breathtaking. It's a rare occasion, where 360 views are part of the whole experience...we could see all the way to the ocean and spotted many of the small wineries and homes that make up this little piece of sanctuary in northern California. After challenging ourselves to try this unique form of transportation, we celebrated with the rest of our balloon companions at Domaine Chandon with bubbles and breakfast!  
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PHOTOS: MU-HSIEN INC

3 Tips for an Enjoyable Napa Valley Balloon Ride

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napa_hot_air_balloon.jpg

1 - Go for the early morning rides. There's less wind and it makes for the smoothest experience.

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2 - Go with the company that offers pick up from your hotel. Especially convenient if you're going for an early balloon ride and if you've had a few glasses of champagne after the ride!

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3 - Bring an extra layer or hat, it can be much cooler up in the air. 

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To experience this for yourself, get in touch with Napa Valley Balloons Inc. who happened to be the top recommendation from our concierge at Auberge du Soleil. 

---
Get everyday ideas to create a sense of wonder @LiveLikeYoureTraveling  


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January 18, 2016

*Weekend Pass* to Staying Connected to Guatemalan Roots in L.A. with Sarah Tramp

by Mu-Hsien Hsieh Lee in CONNECT, SAVOR


@hellosaratramp, Sara Tramp, LA, California
@hellosaratramp, Sara Tramp, LA, California

Gathering around the table, with friends and family, is one of the most universal acts we share as humans. And it’s important to take the opportunity of sitting and eating to share about our lives with one another. Besides, how else do you get to try so many different foods? You can’t eat everything by yourself! And asking a member of your family to show you how to make a traditional dish from your culture is a wonderful way to spend time with them, and learn about where you’re from. This weekend, pastel loving designer and adventurer:

Sara of @hellosaratramp shows us how she stays connected to her roots in Guatemala, while living in L.A!

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PHOTOS: KARA MCFARLANE

It’s been 15 years since I’ve visited my mother’s home country of Guatemala. 

Still, some of my most vibrant childhood memories are from my times there. As I prepare to return, I’m just a little nervous about how much everything will have changed..I grew up speaking Spanish with my grandparents, visiting Guatemala yearly, and eating lots and lots of traditional food prepared daily by my beautiful grandmother – Mama Ana. I’ve grown up with this food, but it’s so fun to share it with those who haven’t. The best way to share your culture is through tasty traditions. 

And you’re invited, as I take you shopping in LA, to help prepare for a typical Ligoria Fiesta! 
Finding spots to buy the right ingredients is just as important as the recipes, but that isn’t hard in LA, which is vibrant with Hispanic culture.  

@hellosaratramp, Sara Tramp Ligoria Guatemalan Fiesta

It’s taken my grandma years to find all the different spots around town to pick-up her various ingredients. 

Like all good family traditions, it starts with food. Basically, it’s the best bribe in the world. In my family all anyone one of us has to do is send a group text, “BBQ this Sunday?” and we know. It’s. About. To. Go. Down.

My grandma and my uncle Pete are two of the best cooks I know. Add my aunt’s specialty, super strong margaritas, and an iPhone blasting pop out of it’s tiny speakers and you’ve got a typical Ligorria family fiesta. There are certain foods that are key to Guatemalan cooking – tortillas, black beans, tomatoes, rice…things like right type of corn to make atole with can be hard to come by here. Since we each bring something different to the table I like to pick up what I can locally. The Farmers Market may not be the most ethnically diverse grocer, but it is the freshest. 

Mar Vista Farmer's Market, Los Angeles, California

Mar Vista Farmer's Market, Los Angeles, California

In Guatemalan cooking, tomatoes are used in everything.

Every dish has some type of chilmol, salsa, or broth made from tomatoes. They add so much flavor and color to our food. Garlic and peppers too. My family loves their food spicy. Like, really really spicy. And can you believe that there was a point in my life when I didn’t love onions? I was a misguided youth. Now I can’t get enough of them.  

@hellosaratramp, Sara Tramp Ligoria Mar Vista Farmer's Market, LA

Corn is delicious, and important in Guatemalan culture.

My favorite sweet drink, atol de elote, is made from corn. It’s like a sweet, creamy corn porridge you drink hot, topped with cinnamon. Guys, it’s really, really good.  

@hellosaratramp, Sara Tramp Ligoria Mar Vista Farmer's Market, LA

Sitting down to eat, and actually talking to one another is a luxury not many of us allow ourselves anymore.

Our fast paced lives have us eating on the go, or while we’re catching up on late night emails in bed. As long as my abuelita is around (and we’re hoping that will be a long, long time) I plan to keep learning from her, and eating at her table. What is it that everyone says? Oh, “my grandma makes the best food,” and yea, she does. I especially love her stories about growing up, meeting my grandfather (who sadly passed away in January, but was kind of a total bad ass – he grew up in the jungles of Guatemala hunting jaguars), and brushing us up on all the family we were going to meet again in Guatemala. If there’s one thing I can say about Guatemalans it’s that they’re extremely warm and inviting, so I have no doubt we will be kept well fed while aboard. 

@hellosaratramp, Sara Tramp Ligoria Guatemalan Fiesta

If you’re still hungry for more, I will be sharing all the details of our feast and a recipe for easy tostadas soon!

~ Your Los Angeles neighbor, Sara of @hellosaratramp

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For more ways to connect with the people and world around you,
get everyday ideas @LiveLikeYoureTraveling


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