Mariposa,Calif (Jan 2,2015) When developing or maintaining wellness-focused habits, it takes more than simply eating right or being active to lead a whole and healthy lifestyle. And between busy schedules and tempting treats, even the most devoted of fitness buffs can be led astray from time to time. Whether it's time for a reset or a brand new outlook, Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite's second edition of its comprehensive Yosemite Wellness & Spa Retreat is just the thing to jumpstart a calm, fit and fantastic 2015.

Scheduled for Jan. 16-19, 2015, the wellness retreat invites guests to indulge in weekend wellness seminars, outdoor activities and fitness classes, hands-on cooking lessons and, of course, plenty of time for pampering at Tenaya's Double Silver LEED-certified Ascent Spa. Retreaters with relaxation on the brain can enjoy a leisurely check-in at the lodge on Friday, then make their way to an evening welcome reception with hosted wine and healthy hors d'oeuvres handcrafted by Executive Chef Frederick Clabaugh, CEC. When the reception wraps, it's off to bed for a rejuvenating sleep to prepare for the weekend in store.

Saturday calmly begins with an early yoga session with Kimberly Rossi, the Spa Director at upstate New York's Gideon Putnam Resort, followed by free time to reflect and refuel over breakfast. For the rest of the morning, fitness experts and sisters Alexandra Williams, MA and Kymberly Williams-Evans, MA of Fun and Fit will lead the group in heart-pumping “Drums Alive!” and movement classes. When lunchtime rolls around, guests can eat and learn with Kimberly Parry, owner of Kimberly Parry Organics, and Chef Frederick's interactive “Farm-to-Table and Beyond” session, featuring a discussion on organic, sustainably-sourced ingredients in both food and personal care products. Attendees will then have some downtime to relish in treatments at Ascent and linger in the spa's restoring sauna and steam room. The night will close with a keynote presentation from Julie Keller Callaghan, the Editor-in-Chief and Publisher of American Spa magazine, along with a special tea pairing class and dinner with the tea experts at Chado-En. Keller Callaghan will discuss the hottest trends in the spa and wellness industry, while “Tea Docent” Nez Tokugawa will highlight the positive health impacts of tea while sampling delicious sips and food pairings such as Matcha Ceviche, Oolong Foam and Tea-Brined Smoked Sturgeon, Duck Spring Roll with Hojicha Tea Dipping Sauce and Jasmine Pearl Black Rice Pudding.

On Sunday morning, attendees will hit the trails for a guided nature hike in the crisp Sierra air, taking in beautiful views of the forest and mountains and the aromatic scents of surrounding cedars and pines. After breakfast, Monique Taylor, the owner of Tioga Soap Company, will have guests feeling bubbly with a hands-on “History of Soap Making” class, while Kymberly Williams plans to take everyone through the ABCs – Abs, Butts and Core – of a healthy, safe workout. Guests can then ask presenters questions on anything from their recommendations for the best organic veggies to choosing a better workout during a comprehensive expert panel, while also working up an appetite for a late afternoon cooking class with Chef Frederick. Chocolate cravings are sure to be fulfilled as attendees whip up Dark Chocolate Pot de Crème, Cream Puff Pastries and Chocolate Ganache – after all, part of living a balanced life is knowing when to do indulge! Hungry retreaters can enjoy the fruits of their labor and catch up with presenters one-on-one at an evening dinner and wine tasting. After saying their goodbyes, guests will enjoy one more night of restful sleep and a 2 p.m. checkout the following day.

The Yosemite Wellness & Spa Retreat can be enjoyed with two packages – the three-night package, available for $1,119 for two attendees or $889 for one attendee, includes the full experience; while the two-night package, available for $889 for two attendees or $699 for one attendee, includes all activities on Fri., Sat. and Sun. activities through lunch. Find out more about the Yosemite Wellness & Spa Retreat, outdoor escapes and wellness opportunities at TenayaLodge.com/WellnessSpaRetreats

About Yosemite/Mariposa County

Located in the heart of California and home of Yosemite National Park, Mariposa County is a world class destination for all seasons. Combining the rich history of California's gold rush with its engaging events, international iconic landscape, and welcoming locals, it's no wonder Yosemite/Mariposa County attracts millions of travelers from all over the world each year. For more information, visit the Yosemite/Mariposa County Tourism Bureau at YosemiteExperience.com or call 209-742-4567.

For More Information Please Contact: 

Noel Morrison 

+209-742-4567

noelm@yosemiteexperience.com