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The events of the last few months have been challenging to say the least; the unknown, a source of anxiety and confusion. In addition to that, our usual sources of recreation and relaxation quickly shut down. Our homes became our schools and offices, and isolation became the norm. Now, more than ever, we can use some calm and wellness in our lives. Following are some tips to keep you balanced and healthy right now, and in the days and weeks ahead, as our favourite places and spaces begin to re-open.
FINDING WELLNESS NOW
Even though many of our favourite places are closed, there are still ways we can restore peace and contentment into our lives right now. Here are some helpful tips:
Stay connected: Although most people enjoy some alone time, too much of it can have negative consequences. Studies show that prolonged isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness, depression and stress. Be sure to keep connected to others: phone calls, video chats, a socially distanced visit with the neighbor.
Grow a garden: Even if you don’t have access to a plot of land, planting seeds in a pot of soil will do. The satisfaction of nurturing something you planted, and watching it grow, is incredibly rewarding. Whether you grow flowers to brighten up a dark space, or food to feed your family, every gardener will tell you that the activity feeds your soul.
Take a local hike: Even a leisurely paced walk has many health benefits for body and mind. Take a friend along and enjoy the simple pleasures of chatting, birdwatching, and enjoying nature. In Harrison Hot Springs, we have a fantastic array of trails to choose from, ranging from easy to difficult. Find your favourite trail here.
Get out on your local greens: There are more health benefits to golf than you may realize. Breathing in the fresh air, socializing, walking, and swinging reduces stress, increases heart health, and stimulates brain activity. Sandpiper Resort is strictly adhering to government guidelines to keep their guests safe: all surfaces are sanitized frequently throughout the day, automated hand sanitizer stations are located throughout the resort, and tee-time intervals are spaced to allow for social distancing. These and many more safety measures will help you have a worry-free round.
Spend time on the water: Whether you choose to go fishing, boating, windsurfing, kayaking, or canoeing, we have plenty of sparkling clean water to enjoy. Click here to learn more about all the fun water activities we offer. Hire a local guiding company to show you where the best fishing spots are and to learn tips from local experts. Check out our local guiding companies and book a fishing excursion. Check here for opening dates for Sasquatch Provincial Park, home of three beautiful pocket lakes offering hikes, camping, fishing, boating, and swimming.
Meditate and do yoga: These calming activities bring peace and harmony to body, mind, and spirit. Learn meditation techniques and yoga poses that have myriad health benefits, such as reducing anxiety, fighting depression, reducing inflammation and pain, improving flexibility and increasing strength. Crystal Spirit Yoga & Healing is currently offering low cost online classes; and once re-opened will offer yoga, sound healing, meditation and reiki classes, workshops, and events. Watch their Facebook page and webpage for announcements about online classes.
RE-OPENING SOON
In the months ahead, we will start to see a re-opening of businesses with strict measures in place to ensure public health and safety. This can be a confusing time, so throughout this process, we will keep you updated on what to expect. We have a number of informative links on our website that will bring clarity during this transition. Please visit Harrison River Valley Know Before You Go and Information for Visitors During Covid. You can also learn how you can Support Local for those businesses who aren’t fully open yet. Keep tuned for the following Harrison favourites to re-open with ways to help you restore wellness into your world.
YA DOMA NATURE AND FOREST THERAPY
Learn how to use the gifts of the forest to soothe body, mind, and spirit with a guided forest walk. “Ya Doma” is Russian for “I am Home”… and this is the concept behind forest therapy: the feeling of coming home to nature and in turn, reconnecting to your own true nature. Certified Forest Therapy Guide Kim will teach you how to still your busy mind, find clarity and learn to live in the moment. Experience the enrichment and nurturing effects of nature, with a number of different walks to choose from, including private walks, group walks, family fun walks, a night-time full moon walk and much more. Get full details here: Ya Doma Nature and Forest Therapy.
HOT SPRINGS
Credits: @harrisonhotspringsresort on Instagram
Harrison has been known as a place of healing for thousands of years, since its discovery by local First Nations who called the Hot Springs Kwals, meaning boiling water. The hot springs were revered as a healing place by the Coast Salish people, who travelled by canoe to benefit from their waters. To this day, there’s nothing quite like the blissful feeling of sinking back into the warm, welcoming waters of natural mineral springs. They’re known for their healing properties, such as boosting blood circulation, easing pain, reducing stress, and promoting sleep. Book a stay at Harrison Hot Springs Resort and enjoy their hot spring pools, all kept at different temperatures. Or visit the Public Hot Springs Pool (opening date to be announced), with views of the lakefront. The public pool uses the same natural healing mineral waters as the resort pools, cooled to a balmy +38C. You can enjoy the hot springs feeling at home with mineral bath salts sold at the Visitor Centre, re-opening June 5.
SPAS
Credits: @harrisonhotspringsresort on Instagram
You’ll find pure indulgence in a wide range of services at these charming spas:
HEALING SPRINGS SPA
100 Esplanade Avenue
604-796-8888
Located in Harrison Hot Springs Resort, you’ll find soothing massage therapies and body wraps, hand and foot treatments, and waxing and beauty services to help you look and feel your best.
PARADISE COVE SPA
6989 Rockwell Place
604-791-5212
Visit for certified massage treatments and relaxing facials at a gorgeous waterfront property.
SPAW DOGZ
#1111, 190 Lillooet Avenue
672-999-SPAW (7729)
Spoil your furry family member with a “spaw” treatment. Their unique Nagayu CO2 bathing system leaves a dog’s coat and skin noticeably cleaner, healthier and odor-free, and helps heal skin issues. They’ll enjoy a luxury wash in a spa tub and a massage dry. Luxury boarding also available!
Learn more about health and wellness in Harrison Hot Springs here. We’re grateful for your support and look forward to welcoming you back in the months ahead, as we all start transitioning into a new normal. Visit us at TOURISM HARRISON.
