Unfortunately, there’s no app for detoxing, but there is Canyon Ranch, a healthy escape in Tucson where you can spring clean your body, mind and soul.
We all want a magic pill. A cream to make us younger. A tonic to make us thinner. A gadget to make us fitter. Some of us have learned the hard way that crash cures don’t work (that Ab Blaster in your basement is proof), yet we still buy into the quick-fix detox fad. Guess it’s just easier to think that you can flush it all away—the fat, the stress, the sluggishness. The hard-to-swallow truth is that our bodies and minds don’t work that way.
There may not be a magic pill, but there is a magical place: Canyon Ranch in Tucson. Perched in the picturesque Sonoran Desert, the reputable resort is dubbed “a destination spa,” but don’t let the word spa throw you off. Founded as a retreat where guests can take charge of their own health and create permanent lifestyle change, the desert hot spot is more like a supportive friend, there to offer leadership, encouragement and a helping hand.
It’s also not a place where you have to travel to with a posse or even a partner. Going solo gives you a chance to really focus on numero uno. No compromising, no give and take; just you and your new and improved state of mind.
Tailor-made detox
Your first step to detoxing starts with your Health and Lifestyle Questionnaire. This is a form you fill out in advance that helps the Canyon Ranch team of program advisors sculpt your stay. There are dozens of activities and seminars to choose from, but rather than route through the lengthy list of services (we’re talking everything from Soul Coaching to strength and conditioning), the PA will point you in the right detox direction.
On the fitness front, you can’t make a wrong choice—the simple act of sweating removes toxins, not to mention exercise naturally stimulates circulation—but there are certain sweat sessions that perform double duty. Take yoga. All that stretching, twisting and breathing works your lymphatic and digestive systems, plus anyone who’s chilled in Savasana knows how a dose of downward dog can clear your mind. Other mind-body detoxers include Budokan, a high-energy combo of yoga and martial arts; Yamuna Body Rolling, a ball massage that lengthens muscles and increases blood flow; Nia, a blend of martial arts and dance; plus Pilates, tai chi and meditation. And no, you don’t have to be in Madonna shape to partake; there are classes for every level.
