Sometimes, we get too busy in life and we need to slow down. Our inner critic voice may say "You should work harder - don't relax."

But, I know all my beautiful readers are learning to chuck their inner critic out with the trash and pick up a more balanced inner voice. Well, actually, you are learning to put the inner critic in the recycle bin.

You see, you take all that wonderful mental energy you used to put in that "voice" and strip the energy out to be recycled or re-used as neutral energy for greater purposes. Greater purposes like rejuvenation.

A plethora of research has shown that, even for American puritans, a bit of pleasure is good for all of us. Pleasure has noted benefits for our health and immune system. (And, contrary to what some may fear, we rarely go crazy and overdose on pleasure. Most people still like to balance downtime with "work" - whether that's a 9-5 job or some other form of vocation.)

I just visited a lovely spa called Areolas Spa and Resort, located in Palm Desert, California. Most of the year, temperatures are in the 70s and 80s. I went in February during a rare cold spell, but even in the cold it was heavenly!

The owners are lovely, friendly people. You feel like you are a friend when at the resort. They really go above and beyond to insure that you are comfortable. There is a central patio near the pool with snacks and drinks most of the time. They often have a happy hour where you can chat with the other guests, if you so wish. Or, you can simply lounge by the European-style clothing-optional pool.

There is an indoor jacuzzi fed with natural mineral waters - this was my favorite place to be.

There is also an outdoor pool fed with natural mineral waters - the temperature was approximately 90 degrees F.

The resort often hosts optional classes on topics ranging from Tantric couples massage to yoga to meditation. They also have an on-site massage therapist. Check their site for more details. It was a very relaxing, wonderful place. I was able to recycle my old puritan inner critic and transmute it even more into an energy of creativity .

Author's Bio: 

Barbara has a BA in Biology and an MA and PhD in Psychology, with a specialty in Mind-Body Health. She is a certified spiritual counselor and coach, and was also trained in past life regression by Brian Weiss, MD. She's trained in integrative Eastern and Western techniques to help couples improve their sexual relationship. Barbara teaches clients integrated tools that help them create the life and relationships they envision. She’s been featured in Cosmopolitan Magazine’s Love and Lust column as well as other international media sources. A client recently said that just by doing the meditation techniques in her class, their business and income expanded greatly because they were more centered and present. Another client lost the fear to ask for what they wanted in life in general, so they asked for and received double their salary and several months’ vacation. Clients have revitalized their love lives and become more comfortable with themselves. The techniques she teaches are unique and powerful. She can teach you techniques to get out of the struggle mode and regain your sense of self, while still having an enjoyable work and family life using a holistic, integrated approach incorporating both traditional goal-setting techniques as well as alternative techniques derived from acupressure and yoga to help you raise your self-esteem, feel balanced, and reach your goals more quickly.

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