Is Honey Good for You?

Honey can be beneficial for your health due to its various nutrients, antioxidants and antibacterial properties. With its natural sweetening properties and potential health benefits, incorporating honey into your diet may be a good choice for overall well-being. 

Health Benefits of Consuming Honey:

• Boosts Energy: Honey is mostly made up of glucose and fructose, which are simple sugars that can be easily utilized by the body for energy.
• Contains Antioxidants: Honey is high in antioxidants which help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
• Helps Soothe Cough and Sore Throat: Honey has been shown to be effective in reducing coughing and soothing sore throat symptoms.
• Promotes Digestive Health: Honey contains prebiotics, which can help promote the growth of good bacteria in the gut.

Is Honey Good for Your Skin?

Honey is considered beneficial for the skin due to its various properties and potential benefits. It may have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging and wound-healing properties. When applied topically, raw honey can help reduce bacteria, exfoliate the skin and speed up healing. Honey is also believed to aid in the treatment of skin conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis.

Topical Benefits of Using Honey:

• Moisturizes the Skin: Honey has natural properties that can help attract and retain moisture in the skin, keeping it hydrated and nourished.
• Has Antibacterial Properties: Honey has been shown to be effective in killing certain types of bacteria, making it useful in treating skin infections or wounds.
• May Help with Acne: Applying honey to the skin may help reduce acne by reducing inflammation and killing bacteria.
• Can Help Soothe Burns: Honey has been used for centuries to soothe burns and promote healing due to its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Face Mask Using Honey:

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of raw honey
• Optional: a few drops of essential oils (such as lavender or tea tree oil) or a pinch of cinnamon for added benefits 

Instructions:

1. Start with a clean face.
2. Spread a thin layer of raw honey onto your skin, avoiding the eye area.
3. Leave the honey on for about 15-20 minutes.
4. Rinse off with warm water and pat your face dry.

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1. Establish Attainable Fitness Goals:

When setting wellness goals, it is important to be realistic and set achievable targets. Think about your routine and what would work for you. Start by defining specific objectives that resonate with you, considering both short-term and long-term aspirations. For instance, instead of aiming to lose a significant amount of weight rapidly, focus on sustainable goals like improving strength, flexibility or overall well-being. This approach encourages consistency and prevents burnout or disappointment. Additionally, joining a fitness challenge can be a great way to stay motivated and maintain your enthusiasm throughout the year.

2. Embrace the Mind-Body Connection:

Understanding the mind-body connection is fundamental to achieving overall wellness. Physical activities such as yoga, pilates or tai chi can enhance this connection by incorporating mindfulness and deep breathing techniques. Build a routine that not only benefits your physical health but also calms the mind and helps reduce stress. Prioritize activities that bring you joy and make you feel connected with your body.

3. Incorporate Balanced Nutrition:

While it’s important to establish attainable fitness goals, incorporating balanced nutrition will also play a significant role in achieving your overall wellness goals as your nutrition also plays a key role in your physical and mental well-being. A proper diet is necessary for fueling body functions, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and maintaining a healthy weight. Plan to eat a variety of nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean protein and whole grains. Avoid fad diets or cutting out entire food groups, as these may lead to nutritional deficiencies and can be difficult to stick with in the long run. Don’t forget to allow yourself to enjoy your favorite treats from time to time! 

4. Cultivate Mindful Living:

Wellness encompasses more than just physical health. Cultivating a well-rounded lifestyle involves nurturing your mental and emotional well-being. Practice self-care routines that prioritize time for rest, relaxation and reflection. Engage in activities that bring you joy and rejuvenation, whether it’s reading, meditating or spending time in nature. By carving out space for mindful living, you’ll enhance overall well-being.

As you begin your fitness journey this new year, remember that a healthy mindset and positive habits are essential for long-term success. By setting realistic and attainable goals you will be able to achieve success in overall wellness. Leave behind the idea of “quick fixes” and instead appreciate the journey towards a healthier life. Here’s to a new year of wellness!

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Not only does Glen Ivy put sustainability first in its dishes, but also promotes sustainable products that can be incorporated into spa services. The Natural Glow bio-regenerative organic facial is designed to regenerate, nourish, and protect the skin, leaving you feeling relaxed and refreshed. This facial uses products that are Cosmos certified organic to ensure products are genuine organic produced to the highest feasible sustainability practices.

Glen Ivy highlights the Sacred Nature organic skin care line by [comfort zone] that regenerates your skin and the planet. Sacred Nature is made with bio-fermented antioxidants and is CO2 negative, supporting climate change mitigation. With carbon offsetting in mind, [comfort zone] founded the EthioTrees project, where CO2is compensated by planting native tree and shrub species to protect local soil. Glen Ivy is proud to partner with [comfort zone] to provide relaxing skincare and body care treatments all the while enforcing a positive change on the earth and all of its bearings. 

Wellness and sustainability join one another at Glen Ivy Hot Springs. Plan a day of relaxation with a Natural Glow Facial or choose from one of the many exceptional spa and beauty treatments Glen Ivy has to offer.

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Glen Ivy offers a unique culinary experience by bringing a health and wellness focus to dining. Designed for mindful eating, Ivy Kitchen’s new menu is inspired by the brightness of the upcoming spring season. The newly debuted additions provide spa-goers with dishes made with the season’s freshest ingredients and organic produce that will keep the body fulfilled all day long.

Colorful additions to the menu feature something for everyone to enjoy. Nourishing new offerings include the Green Goddess Cobb Salad, Buffalo Cauliflower Flatbread, and Grilled Salmon Burger. Additionally, there are vegan-friendly options which incorporate locally sourced ingredients and produce grown on Glen Ivy’s very own property, such as Leche de Tigre, Potato & Roasted Mushroom Tacos, and the delightful Tropical Fruit and Coconut Parfait.

The Glen Ivy culinary team has cultivated an exciting new dining menu to fuel guests for a day of wellness. Please call 888-GLEN-IVY to make a reservation.

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Mindful eating encourages intention setting of how and what you are putting into your body. Eating too fast? Slow down and practice presence during your meal. Only eating junk food? Make a grocery list to cut time at the store rather than grabbing something “quick and easy.” Indulging in these fast practices can lead to the feeling of guilt after a meal.

Mindful eating gives a non-judgemental relationship with oneself and what is on their plate. UC Berkeley University Health Service blog explains, “Mindful eating is not a diet. Mindful eating supports us to have a healthy relationship with food, bringing a warm-hearted presence to our meals to appreciate the joy and intimacy of eating.” Mindful eating brings awareness to our kitchen and dinner table and leaves us feeling healthy and strong.

Here are a few ways to practice mindful eating:

• Set an intention of what you put into your body
• Prepare an ambiance for your meal (set out a tablecloth or light a candle!)
• Take a deep breath before taking your first bite
• Show gratitude for your meal (both alone and when a meal is shared)
• Acknowledge what is on your plate (notice colors, smell, and textures)
• Recognize how your body feels before, during, and after eating
• Practice screen-free meal time

Here at Glen Ivy Hot Springs we encourage mindful eating and incorporate fresh and colorful produce throughout each culinary experience on property. Fruits and vegetables seen in your favorite Glen Ivy dishes are harvested right from the plentiful crops on property. Try a juice or smoothie at the Warm-Up Zone, a hand-crafted dish from Ivy Kitchen, or enjoy a fresh Thai Coconut poolside!

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Designed for mindful eating, Ivy Kitchen’s new lunch menu features seasonal ingredients, organic produce and fresh proteins. A colorful menu, guests get a choice of three starters, five entrees and three desserts to create a personalized, balanced eating experience. Some of the Glen Ivy staff favorites include the Shrimp Spring Roll starter, Lemon Caper Salmon entrée and vegan Fruit Tart dessert. The menu includes flavorful options for vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diets.

Ivy Kitchen’s pre-fixe lunch experience also features a premium wine pairing to complement each entrée. Each guest will enjoy a perfectly paired 5oz glass of wine with their meal. The Coconut Curry Halibut is served with fan-favorite Sonoma-Cutter Chardonnay to bring out the notes of the seared fish, red coconut curry and fresh veggies.  Other premium pours include Matanzas Sauvignon Blanc, Nielson Pinot Noir, La Crema Pinot Gris and Kendall-Jackson Riesling.

A Cravings menu offers breakfast items like a Superfood Omelet and shared plates for spa-goers that are interested in an afternoon snack. Available for an additional purchase, the Cravings menu features Glen Ivy favorites like the famous Chicken Nachos, Ceviche, Cheese Board, Fruit Bowl and more.

The culinary team at Ivy Kitchen is looking forward to serving the new three-course Pre-Fixe lunch and Cravings Menu. Three-course lunch and wine pairing are included in the Passport to Wellness and Massage & Lunch packages. Please call 888-GLEN-IVY to make a reservation.

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• Hibiscus Tea: Hibiscus tea is a herbal, caffeine-free tea known to support healthy cholesterol and act as a natural antidepressant. Best served over ice, this tropical tasting magenta tea transports you poolside.
• Tangerine Tea: Bright, fruity notes are the hallmark of tangerine tea. This orange colored and flavored tea has anti-inflammatory properties that are great for skin health. Tangerine tea is known to reduce skin redness, swelling and acne.
• Saffron Ginger Tea: This golden tea is a soothing, mood-lifting potion. Ginger aids digestion and reduces inflammation, while saffron imparts powerful antioxidants and is believed to have an antidepressant quality.
• Matcha Green Tea: Matcha is a potent form of green tea known for its saturated green hue. Matcha is high in antioxidants, boosts brain function, and promotes heart health. Although highly caffeinated, the caffeine in matcha releases slowly so you won’t feel any jitters.
• Butterfly Pea Flower Tea: A popular caffeine-free tea in Southeast Asia, butterfly pea flower tea is made by steeping butterfly pea flower petals until they produce a vibrant cobalt blue tea. This earthy-flavored tea is believed to protect the skin against premature ageing and is packed with antioxidants.

Tea can be customized to your tastes with a squeeze of fresh lemon or a spoonful of local, raw honey. At Glen Ivy Hot Springs, we recommend honey from our friendly neighbors at Bobcat Properties Farm.

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Glen Ivy cares for a lush orchard of fruit-bearing trees. During the fall and into early winter, fresh persimmons, pomegranates, and avocados fill the trees will vibrant colors and rich flavors. Coming up this December, avocados will be available for sale by the bag, great for adding flavor to salads, sandwiches or enjoying on their own. Explore new ingredients, new recipes and add Ivy Marketplace seasonal produce to your menu for health benefits that will enhance not only your palate but your body and mind.

Glen Ivy recently started growing its own leafy greens and herbs with the addition of two Lettuce Grow farm stands. Located in the sunshine on Ivy Kitchen’s patio, two self-watering, self-fertilizing, vertical hydroponic Lettuce Grow farm stands are stationed. The farm stands grow a variety of leafy greens and herbs that are also incorporated into Ivy Kitchen’s fresh, locally inspired menu. Lettuce Grow is a great resource for guests looking for inspiration to grow their own wholesome ingredients at home. With over 200+ varieties of fruits, vegetables and herbs, Lettuce Grow provides members with the tools, resources and inspiration to transform their home into a personal farmers market.

Enjoy all that nature has to offer and celebrate the season of balance and growth at Glen Ivy Hot Springs with flavor sensations from a wide array of fresh, local fruits and vegetables that will provide the nourishment and antioxidants your body needs to feel its best.

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Honey is beneficial to skin for several reasons:

• Moisturizing: The enzymes in honey enable it to easily seep into the skin while conditioning and softening from deep within.
• Fights Acne: Honey has antibacterial and antifungal properties that help prevent clogged pores.
• Anti-aging: The natural antioxidants in honey help increase elasticity and control wrinkles and fine lines on the face.

Glen Ivy Hot Springs is proud to offer honey and beeswax products from Bobcat Properties Farm to help guests maximize the benefits of honey at home. Based in Corona, California, Bobcat Properties Farm was homesteaded in the 1800s and is owned and operated by three siblings who champion the power of honey. The family harvests California beeswax and raw artisan honey from native sources like Orange Blossom, California Buckwheat, and Black Sage to create a variety of natural skincare products, including lip balms, soaps and skin rescue sticks. The lip balms and skin rescue sticks are made with natural ingredients and use honey-rich beeswax, so the products will not dry, but soothe and protect the skin. The soaps are made with honey and spring water, making them both moisturizing and gentle on the skin.

In addition, Bobcat Properties Farm’s award-winning Buckwheat and Black Sage raw honey is available for purchase in the Ivy Kitchen market place, perfect not just for flavor, but for DIY honey scrub and face masks to supplement trips to the spa.

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1. What is the inspiration/ food philosophy behind the Twilight menu?

My food philosophy for Twilight is based on the same essential elements that I use for all of the food I create: fresh ingredients, bright colors and bold flavors.

2. What dishes are you most excited about?

I am most excited about the tomato bruschetta, chicken wings, and peanut butter noodles. The bruschetta is a variation of a dish I have made for the past 15 years, now with expanded ingredients and new flavors. I am looking forward to the chicken wings because they do not have that vinegar burn that most hot wings have, but they still have the great buffalo flavor and zesty kick, and the peanut butter noodles, mainly because I love peanut butter!

3. What is your previous culinary experience and how has it helped you in creating the menu at Glen Ivy?

I have been lucky enough to have worked under a variety of really great chefs over the last many years. I have developed a strong base in California coastal cuisine and have had the chance to immerse myself into the ever changing world of spa food. I have come in contact with just about any and every dietary restriction out there and have enjoyed learning how to cater to all different types of people. I’ve carried these tools and lessons with me in creating the Twilight menu.

4. How is the Twilight evening menu different than the regular Ivy Kitchen menu?

The Twilight menu is geared toward small plates, allowing guests to sample multiple dishes that are only available during Twilight hours.

5. What excites you about Twilight?

What excites me about Twilight is getting to feature different dishes that aren’t available during the day. It’s always fun to cook food a little different than the norm and to utilize smaller plates to give guests the chance to have a diverse dining experience that features a variety of tastes and flavors.

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