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Recharge & Wellness: A Getaway to Rancho La Puerta and Weekly Joys

Another week has gracefully, or perhaps sometimes turbulently, flown by. In times that feel heavy with global events and daily pressures, it’s natural to seek moments of lightness, distraction, and genuine self-care. While it can feel somewhat incongruous to discuss everyday joys and culinary delights when the world seems to be holding its breath, these very moments of normalcy and personal well-being are precisely what allow us to recharge and contribute positively to our surroundings. It’s about finding balance and nourishing our spirits, even in the midst of uncertainty.

With that sentiment in mind, I find myself eagerly packing my bags for a much-anticipated short getaway starting tomorrow. A few months ago, I received a wonderful invitation to experience Rancho La Puerta, a renowned wellness and health retreat nestled in the serene landscapes of Tecate, Mexico. This particular trip holds even more significance as my partner, Connor, will be joining me. After dedicating himself to an incredibly demanding schedule, often working upwards of 80 hours a week for the past two months, I can confidently say that this escape is something he needs even more than I do. It’s a chance for him to truly step away from the relentless pace of his work and embrace a period of much-needed rest and rejuvenation.

Embracing the Wellness Journey at Rancho La Puerta

This will mark our very first experience staying at a dedicated wellness retreat, and the excitement is palpable. The thought of completely unplugging from our digital lives, recharging our bodies and minds, and immersing ourselves in the diverse array of fitness and wellness activities offered at the ranch over the next four days is incredibly appealing. From invigorating morning hikes amidst stunning natural beauty to mind-calming yoga sessions, therapeutic spa treatments, and nourishing farm-to-table cuisine, Rancho La Puerta offers a holistic approach to well-being that promises to be transformative. It feels like precisely what my body, mind, and even my gut, are craving right now. I couldn’t be more grateful for the timing of this opportunity.

The philosophy of Rancho La Puerta, by design, includes very minimal internet service. This intentional detachment from constant connectivity is a cornerstone of the retreat experience, encouraging guests to be present, to connect with nature, and to engage fully in their personal wellness journey without digital distractions. While I plan to respect this digital detox, I am hoping to pop in every now and then on Instagram stories to offer glimpses of our activities and share the tranquil beauty of the ranch with you all. Rest assured, a comprehensive recap of our entire experience will be shared upon my return, filled with insights, photos, and perhaps even a few newfound wellness tips. As always, thank you for being a part of this journey and for your continued support.

Our beloved Marley enjoying the sun and sand at Warren Dunes in Michigan. Simple joys like these remind us of the beauty in nature and the comfort of our furry companions.

Weekly Inspirations: Food, Fitness, and Thoughtful Living

Beyond our upcoming retreat, this past week has also brought a collection of delightful discoveries and important reflections that I’m eager to share. Here are a few things that have captured my attention and brought a spark of joy or insight:

–> In light of recent national discussions, these helpful tips on ways to help in the aftermath of Charlottesville provide actionable steps for those seeking to make a difference and support communities. It’s crucial to stay informed and engage thoughtfully, and I highly recommend watching this illuminating VICE episode for deeper context and understanding of the events.
–> On the culinary front, I’ve been captivated by the aromatic spices and comforting flavors of this spiced Moroccan summer vegetable tagine. It’s a vibrant dish that perfectly captures the essence of fresh produce and exotic seasonings. Similarly, this hearty and flavorful green bean curry offers a wonderful plant-based option that’s both satisfying and incredibly nourishing. Both are perfect for expanding your culinary repertoire and bringing global flavors to your table.
–> My good friend Julie has been raving about the transformative power of Fitness Blender’s online workouts, and she’s finally convinced me to give them a try! The best part? They are all completely free, making high-quality fitness accessible to everyone. In an era where staying active is key to both physical and mental well-being, discovering such a valuable resource is truly fantastic. It goes to show that you don’t need expensive gym memberships to maintain a consistent and effective workout routine.
–> I’m currently craving all the comforting, yet summery, flavors, and this coconut zucchini coffee cake hits all the right notes. It’s a delightful way to use up seasonal zucchini while indulging in a moist, flavorful treat that’s perfect for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up. The combination of coconut and zucchini adds an unexpected yet harmonious twist to a classic.
–> For breakfast enthusiasts or those who love a healthy, customizable snack, this ultimate guide to homemade granola is an absolute game-changer. Making your own granola allows for endless creativity with ingredients, ensures freshness, and gives you complete control over the sugar content. It’s simpler than you think and yields a far superior product to anything store-bought.
–> Have you had the chance to make this incredible beet and peach burrata salad yet? Seriously, it truly is one of my all-time favorite summer dishes. The creamy burrata, sweet peaches, earthy beets, fresh basil oil, and crunchy candied pistachios create a symphony of textures and flavors that are simply unforgettable. And no, I’m not just saying that because it involves burrata, though that certainly helps!
–> I might have to momentarily set aside my strong (and previously vocal) feelings about nut milks in coffee (remember the almond milk saga during Whole30?) to try this cashew coffee recipe. Lindsay’s genuine enthusiasm and compelling description have genuinely convinced me to give it an open-minded shot. Perhaps there’s a new coffee love waiting to be discovered.
–> In case you missed it earlier this week, I was thrilled to share the first edition of my comprehensive Japan travel guide! Planning and reminiscing about that trip brought back so many wonderful memories. Alongside the guide, I also shared the recipe for these super fun and utterly delicious homemade spicy tuna onigiri. They’re a fantastic way to bring a taste of Japanese street food into your own kitchen and are perfect for a quick snack or light meal. 🍣
–> Speaking of childhood dreams, this chicken Caesar salad pizza is literally that come true. It brilliantly combines two beloved classics into one incredibly satisfying meal. It’s a nostalgic nod to simpler times, elevated with fresh flavors, and truly a genius creation for anyone who loves both pizza and Caesar salad.
–> And finally, because prioritizing our internal health seems to be a central theme in my life right now, these 10 easy ways to improve gut health are invaluable. Our gut microbiome plays such a vital role in our overall well-being, influencing everything from mood to immunity. These practical tips offer simple yet effective strategies for nurturing a healthier gut, aligning perfectly with the holistic wellness approach I’m embracing this week and beyond.

Wishing you all a wonderful, restorative, and inspiring weekend ahead! xx