And Take a Deep Breath … To Find Yourself, Recharge … Many of Us Dream of Using a Weekend or Even a Whole Week to Rediscover the Path to Balance and Mindfulness. Spiritual, Detoxifying, Ayurvedic, Athletic, or Simply Relaxing, the Choices Are Vast. Experience Reports and a By No Means Exhaustive Overview.
Walking to Come Back Better
Our Luxembourg… It’s undeniable that we love it, but as with everything dear to us, sometimes we need to step away to truly appreciate it. During a lavish lunch recently, a friend confided in me that he desired a break at a chic (and expensive!) place with the sole purpose of allowing himself a few chicory leaves per meal to regain the figure he had in his delicate twenties. Yes, even though this method is debatable, the idea of such a “break” is spreading more and more in the minds of our constantly connected, stressed society. And concerning the offerings, the selection is indeed more than interesting. Gisèle, a fervent fan of walks and tofu — don’t laugh, you’ll get there too — visits the Black Forest several times a year to rebalance her body and organism. “I like the idea of escaping the daily routine and being able to linger in a peaceful place conducive to meditation, where I meet people who care about their health or inner balance,” she tells me, her Nordic walking sticks ready in hand. Clélia, a young and athletic fifty-year-old, shares the same sentiment: “I particularly enjoy breaks focused on yoga. My yoga teacher offers retreats in Asia. When you find yourself on a distant continent, you see things from a different perspective. There, I focus on the spiritual and regain balance.”
Thinking Unconventionally
Christine, a proud blonde with a leadership position in a bank, confides in us: “Absolutely overwhelmed by this famous-infamous mental burden, I felt like taking a break in a soothing environment, far from the city that literally and metaphorically clutters us. My cousin wanted to join me, so we decided to treat ourselves to a detox with juices. But we went even further! She signed us up for a complete fasting cure in Vercors. Upon arrival, we were put in the right mood by the naturopath! He explained the program to me and even suggested an enema. So one surprise followed another!” And dear readers, we’ve been told that there are even colon massages that are said to be very good for health! Christine detailed the rest of her daily program for us. Brisk walks (three to four hours a day), yoga, stretching exercises, and the cherry on top: the tea bar, where you can help yourself as you please!
“I must say that this detox truly revived and strengthened me, and I could feel its beneficial effects throughout the remaining year. I have already firmly planned my next retreat!”
