CANYON RANCH GIVES HEALTHY LIVING TIPS TO TAKE INTO THE NEW YEAR

It’s that time of year again. We’re making resolutions to kickstart the New Year. If you’re anything like us, you get bogged down throughout the year (ok, by the end of the month) and those pledges get left by the wayside. But this year, we’re turning to the wellness experts at Canyon Ranch in Lenox, Massachusetts to help find ways to stick to them.

1. Find an exercise routine that you actually enjoy.
Don’t fret if running is not for you. Anything that elevates your heartbeat for a sustained period is a good cardio workout – the best exercise for you is the one you enjoy most, because you’ll keep doing it. Try classes that look like fun - indoor cycling, boxing, or high-energy dance classes like Zumba®. If you enjoy competitive sports, get your heart going with racquetball or basketball. If you prefer a solo activity, try swimming, cycling, or walking (mile for mile, walking and running yield about equal benefits). If you like to be social, go out dancing, hiking, or kayaking with friends – even a snowball fight works. Your body doesn’t know the difference between exercise and play, it just loves to be active.

2. Plan out your meals in advance.
Always aim for balance, so you’re getting the full spectrum of nutrients. Imagine your day-long plate including plenty of vegetables and fruits, whole-grain carbs and fiber, a moderate amount of protein, and a small amount of fats. The proportions may vary at each meal, but the average should be well-balanced. Try this visual tip: Think of your plate as a painting and use all the colors in your culinary palette. Many nutrients are associated with specific hues, such as beta carotene in orange foods and potassium in white foods like banana and potatoes.

3. Find time for yourself.
Reserve your Sunday nights (or whatever time works best for you) for a calming (sometimes indulgent) activity just for you: a night of magazine catch-up, meditative yoga, or a long bath with soothing oils. And set aside one room for quiet relaxation for any time, a space that’s free of noise and distractions, where you can sneak away in case you’re feeling frazzled.

4. Create a calming home.
People feel rejuvenated as soon as they arrive at Canyon Ranch because of the balance of natural beauty and casual elegance. To create this feeling of tranquility and well-being in your own home, keep all the senses in mind. Include fresh flowers and scents that make your house smell good. Choose art that speaks to you. Play music that suits your mood for calmness or exhilaration. Select furniture and fabrics that feel as good as they look. And if possible, create a garden or outdoor space to enjoy nature.

5. Don’t be too hard on yourself.
Set clear goals, keep track of your progress, and reward milestones. Choose one or two objectives to start, rather than trying to change everything at once. As you achieve each goal, set a new one. It’s easier to stay committed to a specific plan than a hazy intention. If you decide to get 40 minutes of exercise five days a week, record your success. If you commit to eating six vegetable servings a day, mark it in your food log. Give yourself credit each time you meditate, attend a class, or take another step on your healthy journey. When you reach pre-set milestones, treat yourself to something special like a weekend getaway or new outfit.

6. Start fresh.
Kick off your resolutions with a new year’s cleanse. Whether it’s a lavish spa getaway or a peaceful, cell phone-free weekend, you’ll end it feeling refreshed and ready.

Our Canyon Ranch in Lenox, Massachusetts Boutique runs Monday, January 3 – January 6. ]]> http://www.ruelala.com/blog/2010/12/31/the-crib-sheet-how-to-stick-to-new-year%e2%80%99s-resolutions/feed/ 1 http://www.ruelala.com/blog/2010/12/22/the-crib-sheet-how-to-shop-the-facebook-final-sale/ http://www.ruelala.com/blog/2010/12/22/the-crib-sheet-how-to-shop-the-facebook-final-sale/#comments Wed, 22 Dec 2010 16:03:26 +0000 ruelalablog http://www.ruelala.com/blog/?p=3181

THE CAN’T-MISS BOUTIQUE EXCLUSIVELY FOR FACEBOOK FANS OPENS TODAY AT 3PM ET

Rue La La Facebook fans: now that you’ve “liked” us, we’re doing something special to show how much we like you back. Today at 3PM ET, we’re opening The Final Sale Boutique, a can’t-miss, two-day spree exclusively for Facebook Fans. It’s deliciously simple, and trust us, you don’t want to miss out. Here’s how it works:

1. Like us on Facebook.
2. When the clock strikes at 3PM ET, head over to our Facebook page.
3. Find the “Get Access” tab along the top of the page.
4. Click “Go to Rue La La,” and voila!
5. Take a deep breath… and get ready for the thrill of the hunt.

If you’ve already “liked” us, you already have access. Just remember, you need to go through the Get Access tab on our Facebook page – that’s the only way in.

As many Members already know, Final Sales are not for the faint of heart. Take a look at our Final Sale Survival Guide to get a little extra insider advice on how to make it through victorious. Consider it an exclusive holiday treat to the best Facebook fans imaginable.

And now, let the countdown begin.

Spring is here (or at least en route, depending on your degree of optimism), and the easiest way to dive in is with new accessories. Here’s how to pluck ideas from the runways of New York and Milan and make them yours:

Floral Print Shoes
Nothing screams spring louder than floral prints, and I saw them all over the runways this year. Floral shoes can feminize denim, which is a definite trend for spring - from a light denim mini to marble wash jeans. An airy chiffon tunic or a ruffle top completes the look. Just avoid competing flower prints. Although print mixing looks right this season, double flower power can be overkill.

Scarves
From bold and bright to funky designs, scarves are absolutely fabulous this year and I’m thrilled to see them back in the spotlight!  This is a great way for those who aren’t comfortable with bold colors and funky designs to incorporate them into their wardrobe.  Pale and neutral colors are on the fashion scene, and a neutral scarf can add texture, or a contrasting scarf can add kick. This is also a trend men can play with - try pairing a simple scarf in an airy knit with a solid T and denim.

Stacked Bangles
If you don’t go trendy with anything else, you can definitely go there with jewelry. This spring’s thing?  Stacked bangles in all colors and sizes, be it funky and chunky to slim and chic. From beaded to metal and even plastic, have fun and show off your personality! Play with stacking, mixing different sizes. Get some in tribal patterns – also a theme in many runway shows. Just don’t stack higher than mid forearm – it’s uncomfortable, and you’ll look over-accessorized.

Layered Necklaces
This trend since fall is still charging forward. Upgrade your casual tank and shorts with varying strands of silver and pendants. Complement a high-neck ruffle blouse with a layered, beaded necklace. 

The key to all of this is creativity and balance - have fun and play with what feels right. So tell us, what are your favorite spring accessories, and how are you wearing them?