October 3, 2009

Capella Telluride Offers 5 Tips for Mountain Tranquility

Perched at 9,500 feet above sea level with premier ski-in/ski-out access to the best of Telluride Ski Resort, Capella Telluride (which debuted Feb. 2009 to rave reviews) knows a thing or two about mountain living. The resort offers a host of services to ensure a seamless ski trip to the San Juan Mountains, including the healing powers of The Spa at Capella Telluride. To keep skiers safe and feeling good, the spa’s team of experts share their top five words of wisdom.

1. Throw Diet to the Wind: Skiers burn more calories exploring Telluride’s high altitude mountain slopes (with runs that reach up to 13,150 feet), and will need extra fuel to stay warm. Carbs such as whole grains are the best way to maintain energy. Onyx restaurant’s Mountain Style Muesli with Berries is a perfect morning kick-off.

2. Hydrate for the HighDesert: Telluride is considered high desert territory and perspiration evaporates quickly, which can fool even the savviest of snow enthusiasts. Plus, lower humidity and increased breathing rates at high altitude can cause travelers to lose more moisture with every exhale. Stay ahead of the curve with plenty of water.

3. Stay Sun-Smart: At Telluride’s high elevation, intense sun and wind can damage unconditioned skin. Keep well lathered with sunscreen and lip balm. The Spa at Capella Telluride’s High Altitude Hydrating Facial is a great complement, using all natural botanicals and wild harvested sea ingredients to focus on balancing moisture levels.

4. Re-Think That “Last Run:” High-altitude can get the best of even peak-performance athletes. To prepare for a trip to the mountains, increase cardio workouts with interval sessions, raising the speed, incline and intensity of sessions to prep lungs for thinner air. And at the end of the day, consider saving the undiscovered slope for a fresh new ski day to avoid injuring fatigued muscles.

5. Reward the Body: A day of intense turns (and perhaps a few tumbles) can put a damper on the next day’s adventure. Treat an aching body to a hot soak, steam bath, or better yet, a Spirit of the Mountains Massage – inspired by an ancient Thai custom to welcome warriors home from battle. The treatment uses a poultice of healing herbs including jasmine, ginger and mountain lavender, steamed to maximize potency and then used to deliver warmth, detoxification and therapeutic botanicals deep into the muscles.