Category Archives: SPA + TRAVEL

Winter Yoga & Sound Retreat in Taos, NM – Souljourn Yoga Foundation (December 5-9, 2024)

September 13, 2024

Drawing upon the wisdom of introspection & reflection the cold season brings, this 4-night/5-day retreat to stunning New Mexico invites participants to slow down, turn inward, and sink into the nurturing embrace of self-care, all while supporting Indigenous women and girls. 

Known for its rich history and artisan community, creatives have been flocking to this inspiring destination for its beauty, magic, and spellbinding nature. This retreat has been curated to immerse you in the serene pace of winter. 

    

You will be guided by cousins, Souljourn Yoga Founder, Jordan Ashley and sound practitioner, Allison Bagg on our first ever domestic yoga and sound retreat that will leave you nourished on our journey together. Our mornings will culminate with a slow flow yoga session (led by Jordan) inspired by the elements, while Allison will create evening soundscapes filled with guided meditations, alchemy crystal singing bowls and other meditative instruments.

From delicious and wholesome vegetarian meals provided by our private chef, to a guided tour of the Taos Pueblo, an afternoon spent soaking at the Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa, unlimited sauna session, and evenings spent around the fireplace, this winter immersion is curated to both replenish and awaken heart, mind, and spirit from hibernation to self-exploration.

This retreat is honored to be partnered and supporting Tewa Women United, a non-profit which envisions movement(s) rooted in P’in Haa (Breath of Heart/Life) and P’in Nall (Touching Heart and Spirit) that nurture and celebrate the collective power of beloved families, communities, and Nung Ochuu Quiyo (Earth Mother). Through Relational-tivity, TWU embodies courageous spaces that center Indigenous women and girls to connect with ancestral knowingness, healing strengths, and lifeways for the wellbeing of ALL.

About Souljourn’s Yoga & Sound Retreat to Taos, New Mexico

  • 4-night/5-day retreat to stunning New Mexico

  • Immersive experience in the heart of Taos, known for its rich history and artisan community

  • Each participant’s donation supports Tewa Women United, a nonprofit promoting wellness, environmental justice, and Indigenous rights

Schedule highlights:

  • Daily yoga sessions inspired by the elements

  • Evening soundscapes with guided meditations and alchemy crystal singing bowls

  • Delicious, wholesome vegetarian meals prepared by a private chef

  • Guided tour of the historic Taos Pueblo

  • A rejuvenating afternoon at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa

  • Cozy winter evenings relaxing in the sauna and hot tub

  • Goody Bag featuring Mad Hippie and other wellness products!

And the goody bags!  Expect products from health and wellness companies around the world.

They are partnering with Mad Hippie for this Winter Wellness retreat. Not only will you be receiving our usual goodie bag, Mad Hippie is donating an extra EXCLUSIVE bag for the first 10 sign ups for this retreat

These bags will be full of Mad Hippie wellness products for you to enjoy on the retreat and bring home with you!

PRICE

Shared: $2350
Single: $2800

And the best part – use this code for $250 off!! (GROOMEDLA250)

PAYMENT PLANS AVAILABLE 
 
**Note that your $500 deposit is nonrefundable to hold your space. Thank you!  
 

***Please note that we ask you to keep an open mind and a “go with the flow” attitude as we will be in a different country and things sometimes can get delayed or adjusted due to circumstances out of our control. So, embrace the spirit of adventure and enjoy your epic journey that awaits you! Learn more at https://www.souljournyoga.com/taos2024

About Souljourn Yoga Foundation

Souljourn Yoga Foundation is a US 501(c)3 nonprofit that raises awareness and funds for young women’s education around the world by using yoga as an inclusive vehicle for change. Inspired by seva, the Sanskrit word and yogic principle of selfless service, and ‘sojourn’ which captures the essence of being in a place for a time, we collaborate with local community-based projects and international nonprofits. We endeavor to support sustainable educational pathways for women across the world and believe that all women deserve equal access to education and their own space to breathe, connect, and grow.

Revive Med Spa: Beauty and Innovation Arrives In Laguna Niguel

August 25, 2024

Laguna Niguel, renowned for its breathtaking coastline and artistic flair, is about to welcome a new beacon of beauty and sophistication: Revive Med Spa. While the grand opening is slated for the (very) near future, you can – and should – book in for a signature service as soon as August 27th, 2024. This expansion marks a significant milestone as the 11th location for the brand, with a continued commitment to elevating the standards of aesthetic care with its impeccable blend of cutting-edge technology, expert practitioners, and unparalleled service. In short: if a five star hotel and a med spa had a baby it would look very much like Revive; elegance, luxury and sophistication is at the core of what helps to make this med spa stand out from the rest.

Having experienced the magic of Revive Med Spa firsthand at their Woodland Hills location where I fell head over heels for Michelle’s transformative touch, I can’t help but be thrilled about this new addition. Her magic with injectables and treatments has always been a revelation, and knowing the Laguna Niguel locale will uphold that same standard is beyond exciting for the community.

Revive Med Spa: A Legacy of Excellence

Revive Med Spa has earned its reputation as a top-tier destination for aesthetic treatments across California. They are the leading provider of Botox® Cosmetic, Juvederm® Injectable Gel, Voluma™, and other premier treatments. This prestigious status is underscored by their Allergan Black Diamond award, a testament to their unmatched expertise and dedication to excellence.

As they expand into Laguna Niguel they bring with them a wealth of advanced services designed to meet every beauty need:

  • Botox® Cosmetic: Smooths fine lines and wrinkles for a youthful, refreshed appearance.
  • Juvederm® Injectable Gel: Restores volume and enhances facial contours with natural-looking results.
  • Halo Hybrid Fractional Laser: Combines deep dermal rejuvenation with superficial skin resurfacing for a glowing complexion.
  • Kybella®: Targets and reduces unwanted fat beneath the chin for a more sculpted profile.
  • CoolSculpting®: Non-surgical fat reduction that freezes away stubborn fat with minimal downtime.
  • Sculptra®: Stimulates collagen production to restore facial volume and reduce wrinkles.

A Membership Program That Shines

Revive Med Spa offers the Revive Radiance Membership, which is an exclusive membership that grants access to significant savings on a range of injectables and treatments throughout the year. With the Radiance Membership, you not only enjoy reduced prices but also benefit from the personalized care that Revive is known for. It’s a perfect way to maintain your beauty regimen while enjoying continuous savings.

Led by Expertise: Dr. Leif Rogers

Adding to the allure of Revive Med Spa is the presence of Dr. Leif Rogers as the medical director. An Ivy League graduate and board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Rogers is a leader in the field of aesthetic medicine. His expertise in microsurgical reconstruction and the latest techniques in facial rejuvenation and body contouring ensures that every treatment is performed with the highest level of precision and care. Dr. Rogers’s involvement at Revive Med Spa promises an extraordinary level of skill and innovation that sets the spa apart. Dr. Rogers has been my personal surgeon and I cannot rave enough about his work and integrity.

With multiple locations across California, Revive Med Spa continues to expand its reach, bringing their world-class services closer to those who seek the best in beauty and wellness. The Laguna Beach location is set to be a sanctuary of sophistication and innovation, where each visit promises a transformative experience.

For those eager to embark on a journey of radiant skin and enhanced beauty, Revive Med Spa offers complimentary consultations to explore treatment options and pricing. As they open their doors in Laguna Niguel, they invite you to discover the pinnacle of aesthetic care and experience firsthand why Revive Med Spa is a leader in the industry.

Prepare to indulge in the ultimate beauty experience with Revive Med Spa, where every treatment is a step towards achieving the best version of yourself.

24022 Aliso Creek Road
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
info@revive.md
Sun 9a-5p, Mon-Sat 8a-8p
P: 424.610.9695

Medical spa patients can book services online  or call  or text 949.996.0510  for assistance!

Eco Hotel Offers Life-Changing Vegan and Creative Journey Retreats and Introduces Trail Running for Beginners Package

August 7, 2024

The Stanford Inn & Resort is a pet and family-friendly eco-resort on California’s lush Mendocino Coast and the only 100% plant-based resort in the United States. Just outside Mendocino village, on a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the property is a haven for guests looking to reconnect with nature and themselves. The resort’s lobby – featuring a curated bookshop, fireplace and comfy couches and reading chairs – is spacious and welcoming. The guest rooms and suites are paneled in warm pine and redwood, many with ocean views and wood-burning fireplaces. Included with each stay is a chef-prepared organic plant-based breakfast at their award-winning, farm-to-table vegan restaurant, Ravens (which offers lunch and dinner as well). Many of the menu’s ingredients are sourced from the resort’s own organic farm and lush gardens. Their Aquatic Center features a saltwater swimming pool, dry sauna, and hot tub – all housed in a delightful greenhouse that provides warmth and comfort throughout the year. The resort’s wellness center offers an unparalleled variety of experiences including nutrition and cooking classes, creative playshops, breathwork and meditation classes, guided hikes and trail runs, and gardening, nature, and mushroom foraging walks. Their spa facility – Massage in the Forest – offers massage, facials, and Ayurvedic treatments.

 

Ravens restaurant enchants even non-vegan diners (they got raves from O, the Oprah Magazine) and to take home some of that magic, guests can learn the joy of plant-based living while experiencing the luxury of the Inn at one of their Vegan Retreats, with one retreat occurring per season. Whether already vegan or merely vegan-curious, these retreats are life-changing. From cooking to nutrition, long-term habit change to environmental and ethical discussions, participants learn everything they need to know to be a happier, healthier person.

Retreat attendees enjoy:

  • Four nights at the indulgent Stanford Inn & Resort
  • Four plant-based breakfasts
  • Four plant-based dinners
  • Two plant-based cooking classes
  • Nutrition/healthy living class with author/nutritionist Sid Garza-Hillman
  • Small Steps Class (Stress Management and Habit Change) with author/nutritionist Sid Garza-Hillman
  • “Bringing it Home” conversation – how to apply what was learned
  • Complimentary copies of four books
  • Mountain bike rental

The upcoming Vegan Retreat is Thursday, September 5 – Monday, September 9, 2024. The price is $2,610 per person plus tax (single occupancy) and $1,850 per person plus tax (double occupancy). Gratuities are not included.

Another way guests can enrich their lives and open their minds is by participating in the inn’s Creative Journey Retreats. Joan Stanford, who owns and operates the inn with her husband Jeff, conducts the retreats. She is a registered art therapist and author and her “playshops” offer a profound opportunity for self-expression and discovery. By moving past self-judgement and into a truly creative space, Joan helps guests regain their love of creativity and discover insights about their lives and relationships.

Included in the Creative Journey Retreat:

  • Three nights lodging
  • Three breakfasts
  • Three dinners
  • Five creative experiences facilitated by Joan (art-making, writing, nature walk)
  • Open studio time (optional)
  • Complimentary copy of Joan’s book, “The Art of Play”

The upcoming Creative Journey Retreat is Thursday, October 24 – Sunday, October 27, 2024. The cost is $1910 per person plus tax (single occupancy) or $2620 per person plus tax (double occupancy). Gratuities are not included. Guests must call the Stanford Inn directly to book the Creative Journey Retreat at 800-331-8884.

It’s worth noting that if guests are not able to attend these set-date retreats, various private retreat packages can be added to a stay at any time of year which can include plant-based cooking classes, creative playshops and more.

For the outdoor enthusiast, Sid Garza-Hillman, who is also the resort’s Wellness Director, leads the brand new Trail Running for Beginners package. With this package, guests will learn proper form, pacing, nutrition on and off the trails, and a breathwork technique that improves fitness and endurance.

This package includes:

  • Three dinners
  • Three trail runs
  • Nutrition for Trail Runners class
  • “Breathing for Trail Runners” Breathwork Class
  • Special gift of three books

The cost is $555 per person plus tax or $890 per couple plus tax. Pricing does not include lodging or gratuities. There is a three-night minimum, and the package is subject to availability.

Beyond their special retreats and packages, the Inn enables their guests to experience something more than just a getaway to a beautiful place – they foster an interlude that is meaningful and life affirming.

“We hope our guests will gain a sense of connection,” says Jeff Stanford. “In these times, connecting with nature is so vital for well-being. We arise within nature and without recognizing and experiencing our bond with nature it can be challenging to connect with ourselves and each other.”

Photos: Daniel Turbert Photography

Vie Healing: Ancient Wisdom and Modern Innovation Converge for Holistic Wellness

February 12, 2024

In the labyrinthine world of wellness, where trends rise and fall like the ebb and flow of tides, there exists a sacred space nestled in the heart of West Hollywood, where the timeless wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine converges with the epitome of modern innovation. Welcome to Vie Healing, a sanctuary masterfully crafted by Mona Dan, a visionary adept in the art of healing and restoration.

Mona Dan, LAc., MTOM, the luminary behind Vie Healing, is not merely a practitioner; she is a custodian of ancient wisdom, a modern alchemist weaving threads of tradition with the fabric of contemporary wellness. With over a decade of hands-on experience, Mona’s journey has been one of relentless pursuit—of bridging the chasm between antiquity and modernity, of redefining the boundaries of healing itself.

Explore services here: VH_Service_Menu

Central to the ethos of Vie Healing is Mona’s pioneering creation: the 24k Gold Ear Seeds. These tiny treasures, heralded by the most discerning voices in fashion and wellness, have transcended mere adornment to become beacons of holistic wellness. Coveted by the elite and adorned by the enlightened, Mona’s ear seeds have earned her the illustrious title of the “Queen of Ear Seeds,” a crown befitting her unrivaled mastery.

But Mona’s influence extends far beyond the confines of her sanctuary. Her bespoke techniques and premium tools grace the halls of luxury spas and hotels worldwide, elevating healing to an art form. From the opulence of the Ritz Carlton to the serenity of the Four Seasons, Mona’s touch transforms mere mortals into vessels of vitality and vigor.

Mona’s mission transcends the realm of exclusivity. With the launch of the Vie Healing Master Class, she invites seekers of wellness into the inner sanctum of her wisdom, offering a direct conduit to her unparalleled expertise. In Mona’s world, healing is not a privilege reserved for the few; it is a birthright to be reclaimed by all.

Step inside Vie Healing, and you’ll find yourself enveloped in a symphony of ancient traditions and modern marvels—a harmonious fusion of Eastern wisdom and Western ingenuity. And let’s talk style – it’s stunning. Here, the finest contemporary tools and proprietary products converge to create an oasis of serenity and rejuvenation.

At the heart of Vie Healing lies Vybra—the latest in vibration tech-therapy—a testament to Mona’s relentless pursuit of innovation. Crafted from luxuriously soft silicone and infused with the transformative power of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Vybra transcends the ordinary to become a portal to profound healing and release.

As you surrender to Vybra’s gentle vibrations, acupuncture points harmonize and converge with the modern marvel of magnetic therapy. It’s a dance of energy and resonance—an intimate dialogue between body and soul—that leaves you transformed, renewed, and utterly revitalized.

In the illustrious repertoire of the Vybra collection, three standout gems reign supreme—each meticulously crafted to cater to the diverse needs of the modern wellness enthusiast.

First, we have The Enoki—an embodiment of precision and power. Designed to delve deep into those elusive release points, The Enoki effortlessly navigates the labyrinth of tension, targeting key areas with pin-point accuracy. From the stubborn knots nestled in the nape of the neck to the throbbing temples plagued by migraines, The Enoki offers respite with its gentle yet commanding touch. With three adjustable power settings at your disposal, you have the power to tailor the intensity to your liking, ensuring a bespoke journey to relaxation and relief.

Next in line is The Shroom—a testament to gentleness and grace. This delicately designed tool is a master of subtlety, expertly crafted to caress sensitive spots with exquisite care. Its soft contours stimulate lymphatic points with unparalleled precision, promoting optimal drainage and soothing relief. Whether gliding over the bottoms of the feet, tracing the underarms, or tenderly massaging the quads and groin, The Shroom envelops you in a cocoon of comfort, releasing tension and restoring harmony with each tender touch.

Completing the trifecta is The Fig—an embodiment of elegance and indulgence. Crafted to fit snugly in the palm of your hand, this luxurious vibrator is a symphony of sensuality and sophistication. Made from buttery-soft silicone, The Fig’s gentle yet potent vibrations awaken your innermost desires, inviting you to surrender to a realm of pure bliss. With its ideal size and pin-point accuracy, each interaction with The Fig is an intimate dance of pleasure, tailored to meet your every whim and fancy.

In the realm of Vybra, these three treasures stand as paragons of healing and rejuvenation. Whether seeking relief from chronic pain, promoting lymphatic flow, or indulging in moments of sensual delight, The Enoki, The Shroom, and The Fig offer a gateway to profound transformation—a testament to the boundless possibilities that await within the realm of holistic wellness.

In a world where wellness trends come and go, Vie Healing stands as a bastion of authenticity and efficacy.

+1 310-927-3097

hello@viehealing.com

V I S I T

8500 Melrose Ave #210, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Indulge in Radiance: Ultaceutical’s Ultra BAM Facial Experience At The Fairmont Spa

November 20, 2023

Embark on a journey of indulgence and rejuvenation, prep your holiday skin, or get red-carpet ready with Fairmont Spa Ultra BAM Treatment for Radiance & Glow. Nestled within the luxurious confines of the Fairmont (more on this EPIC spa later!!), this oasis of serenity beckons you to unwind, relax, and treat your skin to the ultimate pampering.

Today, I experienced the Ultra BAM for Radiance & Glow Treatment facial! –  truly a skincare experience that unveiled a radiant and glowing complexion like never before. Let’s call it transformative as I left more than refreshed and revitalized, I am truly radiant!

The secret weapon is the legacy Australian brand used: Ultraceuticals.

The Ultraceuticals philosophy is a ‘progressive rather than aggressive’ approach to a consumer’s skin journey. They focus on formulations that are results-driven without compromising on texture and aroma, and that’s what makes them unique in the cosmeceutical skin arena.

Onto this HOLIDAY GLOW treatment!
  • Goals are to restore skin from premature aging or sun damage with high-strength Brightening Accelerator Mask featuring Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA’s), Salicylic Acid (BHA) and Vitamin B3 combined with a powerful blend of brightening agents.  (YUM!!)
  • Onto, corrective cosmeceutical serums infused with UltraINFUSION work in synergy to diminish dark spots and hyperpigmentation to reveal a brighter, clearer complexion.

It was divine – and I am deeply in love with this line – (Also how am I just discovering it??). I also loved Ingrid, my aesthetician.

Can’t make it to the Fairmont?

Here are some great gift sets curated for this gift-giving season.

Limited Edition Holiday Skincare Kits:

The Luminous Skin Gift Set ($105)

The Optimal Hydration Gift Set ($145)

The Soothe and Calm Gift Set ($165). 

This legacy brand (started 25 years ago) uses only the highest quality active ingredients, innovative delivery systems like their trademarked Ultra-RETI™ and MicroElastin® technology, while focusing on repairing and maintaining a healthy skin barrier, resulting in the brand being the preferred cosmeceuticals skincare line in over 600 professional salon, clinics, and medi-spas around the globe.

EFFICACIOUS

Each Ultraceuticals product is carefully researched, formulated and tested in a variety of environments as well as extensive panel testing before going to market. An Ultraceuticals formulation focuses on innovating delivery system technology for optimum performance.

FORMULATION TESTING

Absolutely. Before any product goes into market, extensive and strict panel test trials are conducted using a range of volunteers over 90 days to ensure the product’s efficacy and safety. Results are documented using an advanced professional skin scanning camera technology. Ultraceuticals stands behind all its products and claims.

CRUELTY FREE

Yes. Ultraceuticals is proudly certified cruelty-free with the Choose Cruelty Free (CFF) organization and PETA. This means that they do not test any of their products on animals and none of the ingredients used in their products are tested on animals. Ultraceuticals proudly conducts internal panel tests on willing and enthusiastic human participants.

A little back story about this storied Australian brand:

Started in 1998, Founder, Dr Geoffrey Heber and his highly skilled team of Australian and international formulators are dedicated to creating potent, effective products under the Ultraceuticals brand. Ultraceuticals is Australian-owned and use the latest and proven available ingredients and technologies to consistently release new products and improve existing ones. With a combination of sophisticated, patented delivery systems and potent renowned anti-aging stars like Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), each product is formulated with safety and maximum effectiveness in mind, so you get results that you can actually see. By collaborating with renowned universities and leading researchers, Ultraceuticals crafts a simple regimen of products that deliver fast-acting and discernible results to reveal healthy, firm, glowing, beautiful skin.

 

The founder: DR GEOFFREY HEBER:

Dr Geoffrey Heber is a Fellow of the Australian College of Cosmetic Medicine and also a Fellow of the Cosmetic Physicians College of Australia. He completed his medical degree at the University of NSW and has an MBA from the University of Sydney. He has spent well over twenty years as a cosmetic physician. His passion for innovation in the cosmeceutical skincare arena saw him launch the first Australian brand, Ultraceuticals, with a superior vitamin C skin serum in 1998.  Today, the Ultraceuticals founder and cosmetic physician, Dr Geoffrey Heber, is considered a pioneer in Australia for leading the way in effective skincare products that offer real visible results.