Retreating in nature is one of the best and oldest methods of wellness. Luxury wellness resort Canyon Ranch fully embraces this with an immersive, holistic approach, at all of its properties. From the exotic desert location for Canyon Ranch Tucson to its new opening of Canyon Ranch Woodside in the deep forest, the retreat offers a one-stop destination to healthy healing. We speak to Jim Eastburn, Corporate Director of Transformational Experiences at Canyon Ranch, on hiking escapes, energising experiences at the properties and an ideal retreat.
How do you reboot after a hectic week? My wife and I are fortunate to live near Canyon Ranch in Tucson. So, we have access to some of the same hiking trails as our guests. When the week comes to an end, we put on our hiking boots and spend time in nearby Sabino Canyon, an incredible natural resource enjoyed by the community and countless visitors. Being in nature and away from phones and computers is the perfect reboot.
Who would this healthy holiday destination suit? Canyon Ranch is ideal for both the solo traveler and those coming with friends and family. I love seeing our guests enjoy the holidays in ways that that they may never have before like going on a morning hike or enjoying sunrise yoga to start the day. Kicking off the New Year with a Rite of Passage session followed by a consultation with a fitness expert to jumpstart an exercise programme. Guests love our food year round, but during the holidays our chefs create wonderful healthy variations on many traditional favorites.
What do you hope guests will take away from their stay? I want every guest to feel energised by their experience. If they come looking to create change in their lives, I want them to take away tools and insights that will help turn their dreams into reality. If they arrived feeling stressed and overwhelmed by life’s challenges, I hope they return home with greater clarity, confidence and a sense of calm.
See also: Wellness Pioneer Anna Bjurstam On The Opening Of Six Senses Ibiza & New Retreats
Describe an ideal retreat experience here in five words. Inspiring, joyful, illuminating, invigorating, and relaxing.
How has the power of positive thinking helped to change your life? Well, I’m not sure lasting change is even possible without positive thinking. Usually, if I am struggling to accept change or am feeling stuck, it is because I am focusing on the negative aspects of my situation or am afraid of what might happen if I fail. Putting things into a positive light allows me to see what’s possible in myself and in others. Positive thinking is about changing my mindset which in turn helps me change my behaviours.
What’s the best piece of advice someone has given you or that you have read that has helped you overcome a specific obstacle? I love the work of Dr. Robert Maurer who speaks to Canyon Ranch guests about applying the principles of kaizen when facing challenges or changing behaviours. He reminds us about the power of taking small incremental steps instead of giant leaps. This strategy builds confidence and a strong foundation for what comes next.
You have set and achieved big goals. What process do you swear by? I’ve learned to ask for help. As I have gotten older, I realise that I don’t know everything and that there are amazing people out there who are willing to share their knowledge and provide support. You just have to ask…and be willing to be vulnerable. I encourage our guests at Canyon Ranch to do the same by seeking guidance from our health and wellness experts. They are always glad they did.
See also: Medical Director Dr Peter R Gartner On The Mayr Method At Park Igls
When you feel unfocused or overwhelmed what do you do? I get up and move! Whether it’s going for a bike ride, a long hike, or a quick walk in the neighborhood, I find that movement of any kind is a great remedy for those times when I feel stuck, overwhelmed, or sluggish. I always come back with greater clarity and a renewed focus.
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