Russia

While many cultures have steam bathing traditions, from Native American sweat lodges to lakeside steam huts in Scandinavia, nothing captures the very essence of a steam bath like the Russian banya ritual. Banya involves exposing the body alternately to extremes of heat and cold, with brisk massage and applications of herbs and honey to condition muscles, stimulate the organs, and rid the body of accumulated toxins. While you may not be able to jet off to Russia, you can enjoy some of banya’s detoxification benefits at home by following a hot bath with a cool shower, then moisturizing with a honey-based cream such as Clover Honey Whipped Body Butter from Vickerey (www.vickerey.com). Resting afterwards to allow the body’s temperature to normalize is essential – as is replenishing fluids. A traditional banya session would be followed by a cup of herbal tea and chilled, sliced fruit. To try an authentic experience without crossing an ocean, visit Denver’s Izba Spa (www.izbaspa.com), Banya 5 in Seattle (www.banya5.com) or Gaia Day Spa in La Jolla, California (www.gaiadayspa.com).

Central and South America

No, our choice from this region is not the Brazilian bikini wax, if that’s what you’re worried about. In most parts of Central and South America, drumming has long been part of shamanistic healing rituals. Today, science is exploring the role of music in treating such conditions as depression and anxiety as well as the management of chronic pain. Studies have shown conclusively that sound vibrations affect the human body on a cellular level, and that different frequencies can raise or lower blood pressure and stress levels. So go ahead – bang a gong, and explore the freedom and release of drumming. Check out one of the world-wide rhythmic workshops, drum circles, and retreats offered by drumming facilitator Arthur Hull (www.drumcircle.com).

South Pacific

When you visit an island nation in the South Pacific, it’s easy to become intoxicated by the vibrant, brightly colored clothing and surroundings – even birds and flowers seem to be brighter and more vivid here. Legitimate research into how our moods and energy levels are affected by various colors has given rise to a whole school of color therapy. Spas across the country have embraced color’s healing powers by offering treatments that include colored baths, color therapy consultations, and color-infused facials and massages. Try a treatment, or embark on your own color therapy adventure by filling your living and workspaces with colors that please you, or that invoke specific moods. Blue, for instance, is considered calming; green is balancing, while reds and yellows are cheerful and energizing.

Spain

The countryside of sunny, fragrant Spain is dotted with orange trees, and the Spanish love to sip cool, freshly squeezed juice. Nutritionally speaking, making a glass of organic orange juice part of your wake-up ritual is a smart idea – an 8 ounce glass contains approximately 110 calories, O fat and sodium, 2 grams of protein, 450 mg of potassium, and 120% of the daily requirement of vitamin C.

Switzerland

Watches and ski resorts are great, but Swiss chocolate is better. Chocolate even has health benefits. Recent studies reveal that chocolate contains trace minerals and flavonoids, the same natural antioxidants found in fruits in vegetables that are believed to lower the risk of heart disease. Dark chocolate contains the highest levels of flavonoids, while milk chocolate has about half and white chocolate contains none. Choose organic chocolate, such as Dagoba and Whole Foods’ 365 Organic Swiss Chocolate. And remember that moderation is key – calorically speaking, a little bit of this sweet treat goes a long way.

The Himalayas

Yes, the hauntingly beautiful music of the Himalayas is perfect for yoga and meditation. But the region offers a lot more – including body care products and soaps handcrafted with the milk from yaks and mares. The rich, emollient properties of these milks are blended with honey and botanicals indigenous to the Himalayan region, where they have provided the complexions’ of locals with protection against the harsh, high-altitude environment. No need to get out your mountain-climbing gear – you can order your own supply from Wild Earth (www.wildearthnepal.com).

United Kingdom

The U.S. is a nation of drivers; we often start the car up to travel ridiculously short distances to mail a letter or pick up a half-gallon of milk. Throughout the UK, a large part of the population regularly walks to work, to shop, and to perform daily errands, regardless of the weather. Outfitted with an umbrella and a pair of comfortable walking shoes, you too can reap the benefits of making a regular walk part of your schedule – whether that means getting off the bus a few stops early, leaving your car at home altogether, or simply parking a few extra blocks away from your destination. Not only is regular exercise good for your body, it’s also great for lowering stress levels.

March/April 2006

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