It’s the first week of a brand-new year, and, like many of you, I’m excited to embrace 2022 with a focus on health and wellness. This year, I have even more incentive to become the best version of myself … I’m getting married in April! I can’t wait for the wedding and I want to look and feel my absolute best.
This past Monday, I had the good fortune to take part in a morning Yoga Class at Disney Springs. This “preview” was for cast members, but I’m thrilled to share that on select Wednesdays and Fridays in Jan., Disney Springs will be offering complimentary group fitness classes to our guests, too. Each class will begin at 9:00 a.m. and will take place in Town Center near Ever After Jewelry Co. & Accessories. Interested in taking part? Here’s the schedule:
Wellness Wednesday Events:
- 1/5 – HIIT Workout Class presented by Fabletics
- 1/12 – Warrior One Yoga presented by lululemon
- 1/19 – HIIT Workout Class presented by Under Armour
- 1/26 – Orlando Power Yoga presented by Fabletics
Fitness Friday Events:
- 1/21 – Warrior One Yoga presented by lululemon
- 1/28 – HIIT Workout Class presented by Under Armour
Registration is required for all events and space is limited. To register, visit the Fitness and Wellness page under the Experiences tab on DisneySprings.com.
Of course, exercise is just one component of a healthy lifestyle; it’s also important to eat a well-balanced diet. While Disney Springs is certainly known for some truly over-the-top indulgent foods, there are also plenty of better-for-you menu items to be found. Below are a few of my favorites … read on and maybe you’ll discover something new.
Erin
McKenna’s Bakery NYC
– When Erin McKenna opened her original NYC location in 2005, she had two
rules: (1) Create a bakery free of harmful ingredients. (2) Wear cute uniforms.
Today, the Disney Springs location is doing just that, focusing on guests with
gluten, dairy, egg, and soy sensitivities, the health-minded, and those with
allergies (especially kids!) who are often unable to indulge. Everything here
is vegan, gluten-free and delicious!
Frontera Cocina
– The Taqueria Ensalada is a staple in my Disney Springs dining repertoire. It features Arcadian lettuce, poblano rajas, carrot, radish, avocado, tortilla strips, Cotija cheese and an avocado-lime vinaigrette. I like to switch between adding the grilled chicken breast and the Mojo garlic grilled shrimp! They’re both amazing.
Planet Hollywood – The Hollywood Bowl is a standout salad that features Romaine lettuce, house-roasted turkey breast, hard-boiled egg, avocado, Roma tomato, and cucumber. It comes with bacon, swiss cheese and croutons, but you can omit those if you’re aiming for a lower calorie meal. While the recommended dressing is Thousand Island, feel free to swap in a balsamic vinaigrette if desired.
The Polite Pig
– The Polite Caesar and Cobb Salads (without bacon) are satisfying bets, while the Chicken Salad Wrap is great for those who want a handheld option. You can also make a meal out of a few Market Sides; the Roasted Beets, Tomato Watermelon Salad, Grilled Street Corn and Polite Baked Beans are a few you might want to consider. Last, but not least, there are even healthier choices for little ones including the Roast Smoked Turkey Breast and Grilled Skinless Chicken Breast. Yum!
Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant – Trying to cut down on meat consumption? Check out This Shepherd Went Vegan, a plant-based Shepherd’s Pie, or the Raglan Risotto, an outstanding vegetarian dish that spotlights wild mushrooms, glazed baby vegetables, tarragon and shaved parmesan. Raglan Road is also celebrated by those with gluten sensitivities as many of their popular menu items are gluten-free.
Yesake – The Tofu Power Bowl is a hearty mix of organic tofu, avocado, spinach, carrot, cabbage, cucumber, tempura
crunch and wasabi ponzu. Best of all? You can modify it to your liking. These are just a few of the healthier items you can find throughout Disney Springs. Ask your server for recommendations if you’re looking for other suggestions. And remember, you can always request modifications at most restaurants – asking for no butter, dressing on the side,
or grilled chicken instead of fried, for example, can go a long way. Still not willing to give up your favorites? You can enjoy anything in moderation, so ask for a “to-go” box and plan to take half of your meal home. (The best part of that scenario? You get to enjoy something delicious twice!)
Speaking of home, a relaxing living space outfitted with products that evoke calm and support your wellbeing is also a key ingredient for wellness.
Need inspiration? Here are a few ideas:
Basin – Self Care? Yes, please! Basin products are made with simple, nourishing ingredients that are safe and gentle for you and the environment. Whether you opt for shampoo and conditioner bars, bath bombs, or shower bombs, you’ll enjoy fresh, soothing aromas that add positivity and calm to your day.
L’Occitane – Looking for a refresher for your skin? The Overnight Reset Oil-In-Serum provides dual texture and one powerful effect via 3,000 microbubbles of encapsulated immortelle essential oil with anti-aging benefits.
Fit2Run – Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting out, the team at Fit2Run can help you find the perfect fit shoe to support you in your running journey. At Fit2Run they believe everyone is a runner … “if you put on your shoes and put one foot in front of the other, you are a runner!” No matter your speed, pace or distance, every runner matters to the Fit2Run Fit Experts, who will work with you to find the perfect fitting shoes. In under 20 minutes, a fit expert can take you through a customized fitting including a foot scan, gait analysis and assessment of your goals and preferences to find the best shoes for you. No appointment necessary and walk-ins are always welcome!
The Spice & Tea Exchange – For centuries, the health benefits of tea have been widely touted. Find an impressive selection of loose and bagged teas, and, this month, save 50% off 1-ounce tea bags when you purchase an infuser mug.
World of Disney – If comfy and cozy is your goal, then you’ll want to check out
the Mickey Mouse Spring collection. Featuring calming pastels and soft fabrics,
there’s something in the collection for every character in your family!
