For many, the holiday season is a time of joy and togetherness. But for those navigating grief, particularly after the loss of parents, the holidays can be a source of profound loneliness and pain. One individual, who lost her father in 2013 and her mother to glioblastoma in 2023, found herself struggling to approach the season, feeling pressure to maintain traditions that no longer brought comfort.
Finding Solace Through Wellness
Seeking an alternative to the familiar ache of holidays past, she chose to spend Thanksgiving week at Rancho La Puerta, a fitness and wellness resort in Tecate, Mexico. Founded in 1940, Rancho La Puerta welcomes approximately 140 guests weekly to its 4,000-acre property near San Diego, California, offering a robust program of exercise and wellness activities.
The decision to leave behind a busy Los Angeles schedule was daunting, but she embraced the change, trading formal wear for workout attire and immersing herself in the ranch’s offerings. The environment, intentionally digital and noise-free, provided a much-needed respite from the demands of daily life.
A Range of Activities
The resort’s program included activities such as Pilates, yoga, guided hikes, Qi Gong, T’ai Chi, meditation, and water aerobics. She participated in a variety of classes, including Buddhist meditation, where she learned to release harmful self-narratives and embrace peace. A private cooking class, utilizing ingredients fresh-picked from the ranch’s organic garden, Tres Estrellas, and seafood from Ensenada, Mexico, offered a farm-to-table experience.
She also experienced sound healing, which proved more effective in the tranquil environment of the ranch than in previous attempts, and enjoyed a trampoline cardio class. Thanksgiving Day itself was spent relaxing by the pool, receiving a massage, and reflecting on gratitude.
Finding Community and a New Perspective
Surrounded by others who had also chosen to spend Thanksgiving differently, she found a sense of belonging and empowerment. The experience fostered new connections and a renewed appreciation for autonomy. The ranch offered a Thanksgiving dinner featuring fish, soup, pumpkin gnocchi, grilled corn, and pumpkin pie.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rancho La Puerta?
Rancho La Puerta is a fitness and wellness resort founded in 1940 by Edmond and Deborah Szekely, located in Tecate, Mexico, offering a variety of classes and activities focused on holistic well-being.
What types of activities are offered at the ranch?
The ranch offers a robust wellness program including Pilates, yoga, guided hikes, Qi Gong, T’ai Chi, meditation, aqua exercise, dance, strength training, and more, with five classes offered every hour from 9 am to 4 pm.
What was the individual’s experience with Thanksgiving at the ranch?
The individual found Thanksgiving at Rancho La Puerta to be pleasant, spending the day relaxing, receiving a massage, and reflecting on gratitude, and enjoyed a sit-down dinner with fish, soup, pumpkin gnocchi, grilled corn, and pumpkin pie.
How do you navigate the holidays when grief makes tradition feel unbearable?
