The PERFECT Rejuvenating Winter Retreat for the Body and Mind

I just got back from a whirlwind of international travel and I’m completely wiped! My shabbos away in South Africa was gorgeous and meaningful, but the travel has definitely taken its toll on my body and mind!

So much time in the sky always dries out my skin and leaves me with the sorest muscles! (How does the flight crew do it?!) Still, the South African sunshine was a nice reprieve from our Northern Hemisphere chill.

I happen to be a cozy sweater (fluffy slippers!) gal myself, so usually when winter finally comes to Israel, I’m thrilled. Thrilled, but really, really cold!

For most of the year you can fry an egg on the streets of Israel. Desert living gets HOT!!

The stone houses and floors that cool us when the sun is burning feel like literal icicles when the weather turns chilly.

Teeth chattering and sluggish with jet lag, I turned to my welcoming friends at my Jerusalem home-away-from-home, the elegant Waldorf Astoria.

I told them I’ve been traveling, I’m sore, dry and COLD and they came through with the warmest, loveliest breakfast and spa service devoted to replenish and relax me, just what my shivering body and soul needed!

This morning was such a treat from start to finish!!! I got to rejuvenate my body and soul in luxury. I’m so grateful this gem exists in my favorite city on earth!

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Here’s how my morning of self care went:

I wanted to get warm and snug so I ordered the coziest breakfast combo off of the exquisite seasonal menu: specialty Sachlab with Bread Pudding. YUM YUM YUM!!!

Sounds good, but what exactly is it?

Sachlab is Israel’s signature winter hot drink. Aromatic, soothing, creamy, it’s everything you want in a comforting beverage. Sachlab is traditionally thickened by ground orchid bulbs (so fancy!), scented with vanilla and rose water, and topped with cinnamon, dried fruits and nuts. (Here’s a Sachlab Recipe if you want to try making it yourself!)

Hold onto your mug of sachlab and travel around the world to lounge by the fireside of a refined cottage in the English countryside. Take a bite of a rich bread pudding topped with a warm vanilla custard and you’ll delight in the Jerusalem-English fusion. Every bite was simply enchanting!

I ate and drank my fill and was already feeling so calm and content from this nourishing, peaceful and delicious breakfast, but my winter morning at the Waldorf Astoria was just getting started!

It was time to head to my favorite place– the world renown Guerlain Spa– for an ultra-soothing Harmony in Jerusalem Hot Stone Massage!! (Take me back!! I can’t wait!)

My aching travel-worn body yielded immediately to the most serene spa treatment. Breakfast and a spa treatment at the Waldorf is amazing and available all year round, but the seasonal specialties always elevate the experience even more.

I was pampered in my own personal healing cocoon, and enjoyed every moment of tranquil escape in this winter wonderland. I looked and felt thoroughly relaxed after my massage.

After all that pampering, if you’re not ready to venture back out into the cold, I recommend stopping by (or maybe moving into) the stunning sauna, turkish hamam and indoor heated pool at the spa as well.

Lean into a slower, softer pace this season and take time to reflect and replenish yourself at the Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem. I know I’ll be back soon and I hope to see you there too (but if I see you zenned out at the spa, I won’t bother you for a hug just then!)

Book yourself a little warm winter treat today!