So when my wife said she wanted to go to a “wellness spa” for her birthday last year, I said, “Sure.” When I started researching exactly what a Miraval wellness spa was and if men were allowed, I realized that this would be a trip solely for her liking, and I would do everything I could to have her go with a girlfriend or one of her daughters.
Why would I want to do aerial yoga, learn about my chakras, eat a restricted menu, and oh, “unplug?”
Well, since I’m writing this, yes… I ended up “willingly” going to the Miraval Wellness Spa with her in Austin last spring. What a life-changing experience! Yes, there is an emphasis on leaving your cell phone in your room and being present in nature, which was a foreign concept to a Type A personality like myself. But, when you are busy doing cool educational classes, like how to get better sleep, how to savor eating chocolate and nutrition classes, how to cook the perfect steak, or learning breathing techniques to reduce cortisol and relax, it’s easy to forget your phone. I honestly felt like I was at summer sleepaway camp again with all of the activities to choose from. Aerial yoga, tons of other types of yoga I can’t even pronounce, HIIT and cycling classes, cardio drumming, and water aerobics, are just some. Then there are the activities that promote growth, challenge your fears, and are adventuresome, like swinging from high heights, or climbing a 3-story jungle gym with various challenges. And the hiking was amazing!
So, after class, a nice stop at the spa for all types of massages (try the Naga - amazing) and chilling in the steam room or sauna. Perfect. And I would be remiss not to mention all of the spiritual “woo woo” classes available. Crystals, tarot cards, readings, meditation, and other classes for the wanna-be witches like my wife seem to be very popular. There were so many other classes discussing mental health wellness, as well. And importantly, while we did a lot of classes together, there were many times over our visit when we did separate activities.
The accommodations were very nice, with excellent beds, spacious rooms, large bathrooms, and perfectly maintained grounds. Our room viewed a waterfall and bubbling creek. And the food…..healthy ingredients with a great variety and taste. Equal to some of the best restaurants I’ve ever eaten at! Service was 5 star. And, unlike some “dry” wellness spas, you can enjoy a cocktail or a glass of wine.
The best way to describe my experience was serenity. I felt content and relaxed inside and out. Of course, the trip was for her, so when she asked to go to another Miraval for her birthday this year at their flagship property in Tucson, I begrudgingly agreed.
Miraval Tuscon, Arizona, was a different setting near the mountains, with amazing hiking and nature but a similar vibe. Waterfalls, horses, fresh air away from the city life, and just peace. So, next year when she wants to try the Miraval Berkshire property for her birthday, I’ll still outwardly protest, but I’ll be giddy inside!
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