Easy Home Wellness Practices Enhanced with Hydration Boosters
Strolling through a snow-covered labyrinth during a serene winter retreat at Miraval Resort in the Berkshires inspires introspection and a search for clarity among visitors who find themselves feeling lost and uncertain.
Miraval, a spa rooted in Phoenix, Arizona, focuses on mindfulness and has been a retreat for almost thirty years. Its recent expansions into Austin, Texas, and Lennox, Massachusetts, offer a timely escape from the pandemic-induced haze that many of us are living in.
Experts at Miraval guide guests in simple self-care practices that involve movement, reconnecting with nature, and honoring cultural traditions like the Japanese art of kintsugi, which celebrates imperfections rather than concealing them. While my own trip was not about fixing any specific issues, I found myself yearning for a reset after years of unpredictability and stress—a real-life “Ctrl + Alt + Del” experience, so to speak.
Fortunately, the rejuvenating practices at Miraval are easily adaptable for a home setting, offering weary individuals ways to rest and recharge without the need to visit a luxury spa. Below are some of the practices you can incorporate into your routine from the comfort of your home.
In the Bathroom: Pamper Yourself with DIY Facials
Bringing the spa experience from Miraval into your home can be as simple as treating yourself to a DIY facial. During the winter months, focusing on hydration in your skincare routine is crucial. However, to benefit from hydrating ingredients, it is essential to first eliminate dead skin cells that can hinder their effectiveness.
In Miraval’s Renew & Restore Facial, estheticians use products from Dr. Dennis Gross’s skincare line to exfoliate dead skin cells and infuse the skin with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid. Here’s how you can recreate this facial at home.
1. Cleanse Your Face
Begin by washing your face thoroughly to remove makeup, sweat, dirt, and debris. Use a quality cleanser and indulge in a gentle facial massage for at least a minute to ensure a deep clean.
2. Exfoliate
Follow up with a chemical exfoliation using exfoliating pads like the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel. These pads offer a comprehensive exfoliation by combining alpha and beta hydroxy acids to reveal smoother, brighter skin.
3. Hydrate
After exfoliation, replenish your skin with hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid. Consider using a hydrating booster like Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare’s Hyaluronic Marine Hydration Booster.
4. Protect
Finish off your facial routine by applying a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher to shield your skin from sun damage, particularly crucial after exfoliating when your skin is more sensitive.
Outdoors: Connect with Nature Through Meditation
An immersive experience at Miraval involved morning equine meditation, where participants meditated alongside horses, creating a profound connection with nature. Consider guided meditation sessions if clearing your mind seems daunting, as they are accessible and effective. Apps and free resources can assist in guiding your practice and fostering mindfulness.
In the Gym: Approach Familiar Exercises with a Fresh Mindset
Reframing your perspective during physical activities can offer clarity and focus. Engage in movement with mindfulness to navigate through challenging times with a renewed sense of self-care and awareness.
