The older I get, the more it really sinks in that life is about connection. Connections between people, connections with the earth and most importantly, connections within yourself. By connecting each of the dots, the picture becomes clearer and the further we move forward.
I live for the feeling of being pushed outside of my comfort zone. I am a “yes” person and I think that’s why I’ve been able to have some pretty incredible experiences so far and also why I’m always excited for what’s coming next. So when Erin contacted me and asked if I’d like to join her on an adventure to Blue Mountain for the Toronto Snow Show 2014, I immediately said “yes” without hesitation.
I never thought that I would like living in Toronto, especially since I moved here right from a year living in (the breathtakingly-stunningly-incredibly-beautiful) New Zealand. But I’m fitting in quite well so far and am really thriving these days. It’s still a big city though which means I crave a good old fashioned getaway every now and then. Until recently, I had no idea where to go to satiate my desired escape plan. That’s where the Blue Mountain Resort came in handy.
We hopped in the Zip Car all bright eyed and bushy tailed at a seemingly impossible 6.30am departure time but accompanied by some hilarious 90’s dance music (it’s my go-to road trip music) and great company, we motored 90km north of Toronto and 11km west of Collingwood in search of the hills! Upon arrival to the Grand Georgian Hotel, we went straight into learning all about the resort, checking out some local shops and even learning about the different kinds of skis and snowboards at Lifted.
Erin and I then decided we would try one of the local attractions called the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster. Yes. A MOUNTAIN ROLLER COASTER! It’s a one seater that zips along at 42km/hour down 1,085m of track as you can control your speed manually using levers. I screamed the entire way down and almost peed myself with laughter. I felt like a little kid and I loved every minute of it. This is just one of the many attractions that runs year-round on the mountain.
After that adventure, we popped into The Pottery for lunch to learn all about their new Fall menu sourced from local and seasonal ingredients. Full of delicious food, we decided that it was time to conquer the mountain! Feeling refreshed after a hike and an Open Air Gondola ride, we then decided to spend a bit more time exploring the town. One of the standout moments of the day for me was stopping at a small gazebo near one of the shops where a local musician was playing a gig. Being both musicians ourselves, we stopped to sit in the sun and soak in the good tunes.
We had dinner at Oliver and Bonacini that night and it was incredible (as usual). They never fail between their impeccable service, beautiful atmosphere and consistently delicious food. I think I actually ate my weight in ribs and chocolate. Not at the same time, although that doesn’t sound too bad… I digress.
Feeling satisfied and overstimulated, Erin and I crashed early so that we could hit the ground running the following morning. You may be wondering, what was going on the next day that was so important? Oh, just a morning at The Scandinave SPA! I know, my life is rough.
Now I’ve never been to a spa like this before so I decided that I was going to do what one should always do with new experiences, go in full force! The Scandinave Spa is located in the woods near the slopes of Blue Mountain. For therapeutic purposes, the idea is to rotate between hot baths/saunas, then cold plunges followed by relaxation/rest periods. This process aids in stress reduction, increases circulation and can also stimulate the body and mind. The theory is that with repetition of these three sequences, the body will detoxify, the mind will calm and the spirit will soar.
This is where everything hit me like a wave. During my first cycle, I spent time focusing on my breath while sitting in the hot bath – taking deep inhales and exhales to help reduce my cortisol levels. I then jumped in the cold plunge (and almost squealed out loud it was SO COLD) followed by finding the perfect relaxation spot in a hammock under a group of trees. As I was looking up, swaying and watching the leaves fall all around me, I couldn’t help but smile. I can’t remember the last time I felt SO present.
Blue Mountain provided me with a real chance at building the connections I’m constantly striving to achieve. I ended up solidifying an amazing friendship, spending time outside connecting to nature and also discovering some new things about myself. When I got home, I felt like someone had switched my “on” button. I was buzzing, geared up and ready to take on tomorrow. What more could I ask for from this life? Don’t you think it’s your turn?
Join myself and Erin at the Toronto Snow Show 2014 this weekend and get ready to be a #WinterWarrior by pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone and trying something new and exciting! I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to get stuck having to just “deal” with another crazy winter, I wanna embrace it and make the most of what I’ve been given as an opportunity to challenge myself and frankly, have some fun.
Photos by: Catherine Sugrue and Erin McKay
The Toronto Snow Show, the largest ski and snowboard Show of its kind in Canada, formerly the Toronto Ski, Snowboard & Travel Show will be held at the International Centre from October 16-19. The Show is produced by the Canadian National Sportsmen’s Shows (CNSS) and the Canadian Ski Council. It is dedicated to preserving and supporting the Canadian ski industry. Highlights include: Rail Jam, Burton Riglet Park & Canada’s Biggest Ski and Snowboard Swap.