Winter Wellness Tips for Your Canadian Rockies Visit
Winter is well and truly upon us! One of the most spectacular skating rinks on the planet opened last week on Lake Louise and our Ice Bar build was completed just this week. You can now step inside our real life snow globe and experience all of our magical winter activities.
While things tend to slow down in winter, our winter wonderland at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is in full swing. There's no shortage of activities for all ages and interests.
These are my favorite self-care wellness tips to ensure you have the most incredible vacation in the heart of Banff National Park.
Bundle up and Build a Cocoon
'Tis the season to snuggle up by a fireplace with your favourite book and cup of hot cocoa. If you're heading out for a winter adventure, be sure to dress for the weather. I love wearing the biggest sweaters, the warmest jackets and the softest hats and mittens. When I’m bundled up, I can enjoy the chilly weather and embrace everything this magical season has to offer. When you return to you your guest room after exploring, you build a cozy nest for yourself. Snuggle into a Fairmont robe and our comfy beds with sumptuous duvets and pillows.
Stay Active with Evening Activities
With with more hours of darkness, now is time to head out on a clear evening and admire the stars without having to stay up past your bedtime. You don't have to venture far - just steps from Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise you can soak in the spectacular sight. Our skating rink offers flood lights until 11:00 pm daily. Hit the ice for an evening skate under the stars or strap on a pair of snowshoes and go searching for silence and beauty. No matter which activity you choose, there's the comfort of knowing your bed cocoon is just a few minutes away. If you're feeling a little more adventurous, head out to Johnston Canyon. Don't forget to bring cleats for your boots for traction. If the moon is out, you will be amazed at how much light it generates and can admire silhouettes of the snow-capped mountains.
Keep Your Skin Hydrated
While we are fortunate to get light, fluffy snow in this area of the world which creates ideal conditions for skiing and snowboarding (and easy shoveling), it can dry out our skin. It is important to take the time to apply lots of moisturizing cream and drink lots of water. Our Spa t offers a range of treatments to keep your skin supple and work out the kinks from your outdoor adventures.
Nourish Your Body
I can’t think of anything better than a bowl of hot soup or chili after you walk in the door from an outdoor adventure. (Well... perhaps a mug of hot coco with a splash of baileys). Winter is a time for hearty meals and food that will ‘stick to your bones’. Our bodies burn calories when they are keeping us warm and it important to choose meals that will satisfy our primal needs. The culinary team at The Chateau chooses the best seasonal ingredients for a whole range of dining options. My ultimate favorite is the coconut tomato soup in the Lakeview Lounge. (So far Chef has avoided giving me the secret recipe). You can enjoy seasonal cuisine at one of our restaurants.
Contemplate & Reflect
Winter is the season intrinsically linked to hibernation, cocooning and introspection. Taking the time for contemplation on an annual basis is important. It is a chance to reflect on where we have been and look towards where we would like to be.
Journaling is a highly recommended wellness practice. From daily gratitude lists, to reflections on emotional triggers, to visualization techniques, journaling pulls us into the present moment and allows us to connect with how we are truly feeling. Taking a few moments each day to write is essential to my winter regime. I make sure that my journal and pen are small enough to fit in my purse, so they travel with me everywhere. They fit well in my hands and I bought them because I love them, which make me want to use them. Writing helps me reflect on what I have accomplished and narrow down what I want to focus my energy on next. You may wish to begin journaling by answering the question “what is happening right now” and then see where the pen takes you.
I hope you find ways to embrace winter wherever you are. Should your travels bring you to lovely Lake Louise, we would love to have you experience our favorite wellness tips.
Blessings,
Davina
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