While some of us are busy spring-cleaning the house, others are taking the time to renew the body, mind and spirit after a long, cold winter season. Having worked at a health and wellness spa, I've seen the looks of harried individuals coming to relax and I've seen the results of scheduling a little getaway into your calendar.

Why not schedule a getaway with one of our professional HANS members? Whether it's a week long personal renewal at The Haven, a healthy weekend getaway at Cedar Springs, or simply a quick treat for your face at a local spa or clinic, there are many fabulous places to renew with the season.

Cedar Springs Renewal Centre, Sedro Woolley, WA
www.cedarsprings.org, 360-826-3599

Just across the border, a two-hour drive from Vancouver, BC, this retreat is a true gem. Set on 50 acres in the serene Cascade foothills, Cedar Springs is committed to harmony and renewal. Guests can choose between weight-loss and renewal programs, which include exercise, juicing for health, and raw food organic cleansing. Hands-on kitchen classes include "How to Juice," "How to Sprout," and "Making Live Food." Other services include colon hydrotherapy, infrared sauna, spa services, pilates and yoga.

New Visage Advanced Skincare and Anti-Aging, Vancouver, BC
www.newvisage.ca, 604-893-8872

Why not try the Pomegranate Derma Peel from New Visage Advanced Skincare and Anti-Aging Clinic? It promises to "lavish your skin with antioxidants to prevent free radical damage and support the life span of DNS and healthy tissue." Sounds good to me!

A New Leaf Naturopathic Clinic, Langley, BC
www.anewleafnaturopathic.com, 604-514-8555

A hot stone facial from A New Leaf Naturopathic Clinic is heavenly. Using Eminence facial products, Linda Bellamy treats you to a 75-minute blissful get-away that leaves you feeling uber-peaceful. It's the perfect get away for someone who can't get-away.

The Haven, Gabriola Island, BC
www.haven.ca, 250-247-9211

The Haven is not only a place to get away, but also a unique, non-profit place of education dedicated to the enrichment and effectiveness of people's lives.

"Over our 25-year history, thousands of people have participated in courses at The Haven," says Rachel Davey, Director of Programs. "Many have returned again and again and continue to find great enrichment and learning in their experiences here."

The "Come Alive" course is especially well known and respected for helping people overcome personal challenges, although, as Davey notes, "We offer a great range and diversity of ourses. Even the most "academic" of them are experiential and relational in their focus. Their emphasis on communication and embodiment means that people often describe what they learn at The Haven as "life-changing."

Facilities include a sauna, gymnasium, hot tub and, in the summer months, an outdoor swimming pool. On-site bodywork is also available.

"2008 is our 25th anniversary year," says Davey. "We look forward to the next 25 years with excitement!"

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