Every Visit to Rancho La Puerta Fills My Heart With Gratitude
I've been invited to speak at Rancho La Puerta since 2001 with most recent topics including the microbiome, the impact of food and lifestyle choices on our DNA, and bone health. For the past 24 years of speaking at the ranch, I have yet to find a better sanctuary for renewing my mind, body, and spirit. Nestled in the serene hills of Tecate, Mexico, this breathtaking wellness resort and spa offers private casitas tucked among the trees, expansive exercise and meditation facilities, acres of organic gardens with a kitchen and cooking school, a stunning dining hall, a quaint café and wine room for social gatherings, tranquil yet luxurious spas, and miles of hiking trails. Every visit leaves me in a state of awe, wonder, and deep gratitude.
This time, I arrived with a clear intention—to "fill my cup." As a busy, working mom balancing multiple roles, life can be draining. I couldn’t imagine a more perfect place for renewal.
Magical Mornings
Mornings at Rancho La Puerta feel truly magical. I start my day with coffee in my casita before heading out for a sunrise hike. The Professor’s Hike is my favorite, where symbolic sculptures mark the journey—letting go (a skeleton rock), birth (a rock that looks like a womb), and renewal (a sun sculpture). The Woodland Hike, winding through majestic oak trees, is another beloved route.
After my hike, I enjoy an organic, whole-foods breakfast before diving into meditation and journaling. With Mount Kuchumaa standing watch, inspiration flows effortlessly, and synchronicities seem to unfold at every turn.
Joyous Activities
Days at the Ranch are filled with endless opportunities for movement and joy. From yoga, Pilates, and circuit training to dance and meditation, there’s something for everyone. My personal favorite is yoga in Montana Gym, where deep relaxation in Shavasana is the perfect ending. On the other end of the spectrum, cardio dance classes are pure fun—where laughter takes over, and you forget you’re even exercising!
Teaching & Learning at Rancho La Puerta
The Ranch also fosters intellectual and spiritual growth. There’s always a visiting expert guiding guests through reflection, discussion, and creative expression. Each speaker brings something new and enriching to the experience, making every visit unique.
As a guest nutrition speaker, I am honored to share the latest research on Functional Nutrition, the Microbiome, Genetics, and Bone Health, offering practical tools for a healthier life. The enthusiasm in my packed classes is always invigorating!
Inner Healing and Creative Expression
One of the most beloved experiences among guests is the Sound Healing class in the Oaktree Gym. Lying in Shavasana, enveloped by the soothing vibrations of crystal bowls, is profoundly restorative. More than once, I’ve found myself drifting into a peaceful sleep—often accompanied by the occasional snore from fellow guests!
The labyrinth, nestled in a quiet oak grove, is another sacred space where I reflect on my life, intentions, and gratitude. Art classes also provide a creative and meditative outlet. My favorite is Yarn Painting, led by an artist who has been with the Ranch for over 40 years. Creating a Prayer Arrow with him each evening allows me to set intentions to carry home with me.
Wholesome Organic Foods
One of the greatest gifts at Rancho La Puerta is the food—wholesome, organic, and bursting with flavor. Each meal is thoughtfully prepared to nourish both body and soul. A sunrise hike to the Ranch’s organic garden is a reminder of nature’s abundance, leaving me in awe of the vibrant life cultivated here.
The Spa Experience
No stay is complete without indulging in a spa treatment. My go-to is the Sage Hot Stone Massage, a blissful experience that melts away tension and leaves me feeling completely restored.
My Cup is Filled
Every visit to Rancho La Puerta fills my heart with gratitude. Over the years, even my children have soaked up its magic during Kids’ Weeks and now as young adults. Inspired by the Ranch, I have woven elements of its tranquility into my home—an organic garden (on a much smaller scale!), crystal bowls, a hanging silk, stone seat walls with teak furniture and wind chimes, Timothy’s yarn paintings, and a dedicated meditation space. Nearby hikes help bring it all together, though I do wish I could bring home the Ranch’s incredible kitchen staff!
Rancho La Puerta is more than a retreat; it’s a way of life—one that continues to inspire, restore, and transform. Until next time, my cup is full.
About the Author: Norma Flood, Integrative & Functional Nutritionist
Norma Flood is a busy mom, wife, friend, and Registered Dietician Nutritionist guiding adults and teens to better brain balance and gut health. Holding a Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences, she is recognized as one of San Diego’s top Integrative and Functional Nutritionists. With a deep commitment to holistic well-being, Norma provides personalized health counseling and applies functional nutrition therapy to effectively support digestive health, mental health, and eating disorder recovery. She offers both in-person and group counseling as well as online education. Follow Norma Flood on YouTube as she shares small, easy steps that you can take each day to support better gut health and mental health using an integrative and functional approach.