After spending 35 days away from home I felt a bit run down, bloated and all sorts of unbalanced. Even after spending a few nights tucked away in my own bed, I couldn’t get my groove back and I think it’s because my mind, body & soul were in desperate need of a recharge. Thankfully, a few months ago I had a gut feeling that this would be the case and a few friends {Always Judging, Trop Rouge & Le Happy}  and I booked a trip to the world-famous Golden Door Spa which I’d been hearing rave reviews about. {Scroll down for more}

I honestly didn’t know what to expect from the Golden Door. A few girlfriends of mine had gone and all they said was “Oh my gosh, I’m so jealous. It’s life changing!” The moment you arrive at the Golden Door, the path to empowerment begins. As the two golden doors opened to a picturesque bridge that takes you from all of the stress, worry and anxiety of the outside world, to a safe oasis that is filled with strength, nourishment and support. It felt as though I was getting a big hug, a much need hug, the moment my feet entered the resort.

When the concierge informed us that we would be put on a 1400 calorie a day “diet” I’m not going to lie, I wasn’t thrilled. But after Chef Greg cooked up one of his mouth watering “healthy” dishes I knew the food aspect would be a piece of cake {pun intended}. You wouldn’t even know you are eating “healthy” food if I didn’t tell you and by the time you leave the Golden Door your body will literally be craving for more. I really loved learning about their bio-intense gardens and picking vegetables, learning about new herbs and playing with the chickens!

The trip can be whatever you want it to be. Ours was filled with exploring, zenning out and picking up some light activities such as archery, fencing and tennis.

At the end of each day, we were spoiled with spa treatments before dinner! You can pick from their healthy list of spa treatments found here. Golden Door is a women’s only retreat {although they have a few men’s weeks/co-ed weeks throughout the year}, so there was always a very nice sense of comradery around the common areas. The other women participating in the retreat were exceptionally friendly and everyone comes from such interesting backgrounds and life paths. This is kind of place that is comfortable to go solo or it’d make for a nice bonding trip with your favorite gal pals.

All in all, a trip to the Golden Door was just what the Doctor ordered for this run down Damsel. If you are looking to get in shape, get your mind in check and hit re-set on your health and nutrition, I cannot recommend this incredible experience enough!

Zimmermann Arcadia Ruffle Floral Top {$315} // Last Years Ace & Jig Striped Dress {similar ones here & here} // Lululemon ‘Daily Practice’ Gray Hoodie {$118} // Nike Free Running Sneaker {$100} // J.Crew Suede d’Orsay Flat {$158} // Beyond Yoga Leggings {$88} // Tory Burch Iberia Green Cashmere Sweater {$295} // LNA Fallon T-Shirt {$70}

Special thanks to Golden Door for this amazing experience.

And thank you James Nord for your {always} beautiful photography talents.