My husband and I recently had the pleasure of traveling to Rancho La Puerta in Tecate, Mexico, and it was a fantastic experience beyond our expectations. RLP is a unique place that offers a combination of a spa, a wellness center, and a magical environment that helps you feel rejuvenated. It is a family-run resort that began in 1940. The experience reminded me of the importance of focusing on essential things such as mindfulness, nutrition, and physical activity. My big takeaway as someone over 60 (well, 70) is that I realized the significance of being in a health-oriented environment with like-minded people, conversing at dinner, and sharing the day’s experiences. It was indeed a wonderful experience.

Implementing all that I learned is a learning curve. Rushing around and being busy with “busy” is my default, and I tend to eat way too fast, sometimes even in my car. Ugh! To curb my behavior, I have created sticky notes reminders to slow down, chew my food thoroughly, and be grateful for all the blessings in my life. What I also learned is that you don’t need to go to a spa to have a “spa mindset”. It’s a matter of paying attention to our bodies, what we eat, and where we allow our thoughts to wander. It is a discipline.

Spring is approaching (yay), and I have been thinking about warm-weather spring wardrobes. I remember from my NPR days that we would be full on spring in the store, and the shoppers would tell us that they needed to remember what they had or weren’t ready to change their closets for a different season, especially with Colorado’s unpredictable spring weather. Now I understand. But it’s easier to add fresh picks to your wardrobe and pack for travel if you know what you have.

I don’t usually think much about my makeup brushes. I used to clean them occasionally, but that was about it. However, I recently learned that if makeup brushes are not washed every week, they can harbor bacteria, including E. coli. Recently, I read a very informative article in the New York Times and am sharing the highlights in Clean Your Makeup Brushes.

I would like to send some positive energy your way. Remember to slow down, express gratitude, eat plenty of greens, and get enough sleep at night. These simple steps can make a big difference in appreciating your world.

In fashion and health,

Ann