The Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Princess Scottsdale has some exciting new: They’re launching a new holistic Well & Being spa program on January 1st that combines health, nutrition, pampering, fitness and mind-body programs. They’ll even have their own medical doctor on staff: intergrative health guru Dr. Diane Downing. As well as a medical degree from the University of Arizona in Tucson and a two-year fellowship at the famed Center for Integrative Medicine (Dr. Weil’s school), Dr. Downing has training in botanical medicine, nutrition, energy medicine and mind/body therapies, plus she’s a certified Reiki practitioner. So yeah, she pretty much knows it all. Here, she reveals the secret to health and happiness and her best stress-busters. Take notes…
Name: Diane Downing
Age: 51
Title: Medical Doctor
Married/Single: Happily married 32 years
Kids: 3 adult children
Live: Part-time Tucson, Part-time Scottsdale
I’m inspired by…
The beauty in nature, people who see the good in others and the silver lining in challenges. People who love what they do and are doing what they love.
The perfect day would be…
Spent with my husband and 3 kids hiking in Sedona, flying kites, laughing and just enjoying being together.
Favorite calorie-burner…
Power walking.
My fridge is always stocked with…
Organic produce and yogurt, a nice sharp cheddar, avocado and French vanilla soy creamer for my morning coffee.
One thing I cannot live without…
The love and respect of my family.
The one person who motivates me is…
My husband – he’s always there to help me over the hurdles and cheer me on.
No sweat session is complete without…
A cool down at the end – and a little time to appreciate all the hard work just done.
My motivation…
Seeing the transformation that can occur in people when they incorporate positive lifestyle changes that enhance their health and well-being.
My stress relief…
Sometimes I like to be active—power walking or doing yoga; sometimes more introspective with mindful practices like breathing exercises and meditation; sometimes I just like reading an inspiring book or listening to music.
The best medicine…
Is to take charge of your health, take responsibility for the way you live your life, embrace all aspects of your health – physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.
Best fitness/nutrition advice…
Find an activity you like to do – you are much more likely to do it. Go through your fridge and pantry and get rid of the foods with trans fats and high fructose corn syrup.
Best habit…
I make sure I get a good 8 hours of sleep every night.
My fitness goal…
Increase my aerobic exercise.
My healthy haven…
Lying on the hammock in the beautiful landscape of my back yard.
Secret to happiness…
Don’t expect others to provide it – it comes from within.
Always…
Let the people in your life who are important to you know it. Say “I love you” often.
Never…
Take yourself too seriously.
To learn more
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
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