I think it is safe to say. Each one of us is in major need of unplugging. In need of a wellness retreat. A space were we wish to unwind, search within ourselves and most importantly heal.
Gratitude can transform any situation. It alters your vibration, moving you from negative energy to positive. It’s the quickest, easiest most powerful way to effect change in your life-this I know for sure.”
Oprah
I recently had the beautiful pleasure of visiting Miraval Austin Resort. An invitation I did not take lightly. Just a few weeks before I went to Miraval. I realized I needed to unplug in a major way. I took a social media break, because honestly I was drowning. I was not putting myself first. I was pouring so much in to the community. That I forgot to pour into myself. I was on the verge of a breakdown.
This has been a very hard year for everyone. 2020 has shown the worlds true colors, while at the same time forcing us to sit down, shut-up and see. Not just look, but really see and take it all in. Ive said it before and I will say it again. This is a year each one of us needed. No matter how hard, uncomfortable or what losses we faced.
Miraval was that peace I needed. It was that reset. We arrived Tuesday Morning…and although the weather wasn’t the best it was so serene. Carlos & I were greeted at the top of the hill where we were immediately escorted by a golf cart to our room. We had the Austin Suite which was perfect. It had a parlor like setup with an attached King room. It offered more space, upgraded amenities (guys we had an outdoor shower…so sexy)
After we were settled in our room we jump right into our pre-planned itinerary. We had a pretty packed one. But the beautiful thing about Miraval you can do as much as you want…or as little as you want. Of course with our visit being something to show my followers I wanted to experience as much as possible.
life in balance
The best place to start of course is the spa. Miraval Spa is more then just the spa, it is a complete retreat for the mind, body, and soul. Carlos & I signed up for Signature Petal Pecan Facial, Blood Orange Pedicure/Manicure, Ginger Healer & Shamana-Karma. My favorite was the Ginger Healer This was a deep tissue massage that included wrapping my body in pure ginger rosemary oil. Followed by a Ginger Salt Glaze scrub and a hot steam shower.
The Facial was amazing as well, I fell asleep though lol, but my skin was glowing at the end. Carlos said the Blood Orange Pedicure was the best pedicure he had ever had in his life. The Spa also mentioned that more men have been signing up for pedicures & manicures ever since spas reopened.
Did you know they offer Day Packages as well for the Spa?
Culinary & Nutrition
I will be honest when I saw the words Conscious Cooking. I thought oh brother, we are about to eat rabbit food. And Carlos is going to be giving me the stank eye. But I was W R O N G. The intention of Conscious Cooking at Miraval is to do more than please the palate: It is to shape how food is viewed. The Preparation, consumption, the relationship. We were able to experience all of the above through Fresh Smoothies, Hands-on Demonstrations, Restaurant Dining, Room Services, Afternoon Snacks.
The Life in Balance Culinary Kitchen allowed us to meet Culinary Specialist Lexie Ruse. Who shared her story, passion & purpose through culinary. She hosted an amazing cocktail workshop (which we attended two) As well as the Just Cook For Me Experience which allowed us to leave with our hearts & bellies full.
The food in the Dining Room as amazing as well. The views spectacular, overlooking Lake Travis. Oh did I mention it was complimentary. YES! It is included in your stay. And I will tell you, I was not modest? I order 2—3 appetizers, 2 entrees and all the desserts. The food was A M A Z I N G, so fresh and as if you were dining at a 5 star restaurant. Every recipe harnesses the skills of Miraval’s chefs.
wellbeing….
This is the part I didn’t know how I was going to feel about. I have always been taught to stay clear of meditation and searching deep within yourself. So I will be honest I was hesitate. On our first day we jumped right into Wellness Counseling. Remember I said, you can do as much as you want or as little as you want. Miraval always give you the choice. Carlos & I took part in the LIFE, LOSS & LETTING GO. As well as Digital Mindfulness, Stress Solutions, Living a Life in Balance. Its something I believe we truly needed. It was a space where we could share our experiences, transitions and a lot of my feelings towards 2020.
There were truly so many amazing experiences. All with the goal to not necessarily forget what was going on outside of Miraval but how to deal with it properly and in a healthy manner. They had experts that guided you to create your own lasting blend of balance -- emotionally, physically, spiritually, and intellectually.
cleansing ceremony with courtney
On our very last day. We headed to a section of the resort we had not visited our entire stay. I believe we were saving the best for last. Solidago was a beautiful temple where we had the chance to experience Courtney Parnell
This ceremony was all about energetic cleansing. Where Courtney shared the story of the temple, the property. As well purifying properties of ancient plants such a Palo Santo and Sage. Which created a safe and sacred space of protection and clarity. Courtney taught me the importance of letting go to energy that no longer served me. With her custom playlist in the background.
She taught me the art of breathing, inhaling and when I let it go…to do so not lightly. But loudly with great force. At the end I was provided a take-home note-card to write to my future self. And it was powerful.
Miraval was magical. There was so much that we did. So much that you can do as well. We learned the art of archery (which made me feel like Katniss Everdeen . Sustainable Living by visiting Cypress Creek Farm where I learned the birth of a Loofa. As well as met the hens that provide the farm-to-table restaurant with fresh eggs and wander the farm. Along with Chicken Keeping & Beekeeping.
At the end of the night I laid my head down on the most magical bedding I have ever slept on in my life. I would describe it as a cloud-like sanctuary.
I could keep talking about Miraval Austin, because it is truly a magical place that each of us must experience at least once in our life. No matter what your intent—getaway with the girls, solo retreat, or escape with your soul mate it is for you. So as my gift to you. I am offering with your next stay $225 DAILY resort credits that can be used toward spa treatments or private session when visiting Miraval Austin.
Not only does Miraval Austin committed to your emotional, spiritual & physical well being. But they are VERY committed to your safety.
Miraval Austin is taking advance and extensive cleaning protocols prior to arrival. Guestrooms are disinfected, sanitized and sealed, not to be reopened until the next guest arrives. They offer contactless delivery of guest request items and enter your guest room for housekeeping service upon request. All wellness activities will require advance sign up to ensure physical distancing and proper sanitation between classes. Masks will be required in certain areas. I love that the property is large and open, ensuring social distancing is forefront.
A Note from Bree
Friends I know this has not been a easy year. I know that 2020 has shown many of us, what we were not ready to see, feel, or even deal with. But we made it through it. We are strong and I want each and every one of you to remember this. This was a season we needed in our life. Its a season we will never forget. Its a season that will require much healing from. Just know each of us are capable of healing, of growing of glowing. Experience Miraval Austin Resort, and let it be part of your healing journey.
