Many of us know Mexico’s Cabo San Lucas to be the center for spring break partying. In fact, US News And Report ranked it No. 4 on its “Best Spring Break Destinations list,” and it’s been famously visited by our favorite hot girl, Megan Thee Stallion. And while I love my girl Tina Snow, the party reputation that preceded her recent visit is one reason I never visited Cabo. However, on a recent trip, when I got the chance to experience Corazón Cabo Resort And Spa, I was pleasantly surprised to find that all my limited preconceived notions about this region were totally wrong.
Cabo presents opportunities for recharge, relaxation, and soul-feeding good eats. Here’s more on my transformative experience where the awe-inspiring desert meets the serene waters:
Courtesy, Corazón Cabo Resort and Spa
Where I Stayed
One major thing I loved about Corazón Cabo Resort and Spa is that it offered unique luxury amenities without sacrificing a certain cozy allure I crave when choosing a place to stay in a new destination. The property, which features sculptures and installations by local artists, has more than 300 guest rooms and suites. My room had an ocean view, with Cabo’s world-famous rock formations within the distance, floor-to-ceiling glass sliding doors, plush bedding, a hot tub, and a spa-style shower. It was enough to make me never want to actually leave the suite, and there’s a signature scent that hugs as you walk down the property’s halls.
Corazón, located off of Medano Beach (one of the “most popular swimmable beaches in Cabo,”) has several towers, all featuring attractive, diverse options for almost any traveler— from spaces fit for families and small groups to oversized luxury suites with elegant decor, in-room kitchens, rooftop terraces, wet bars, and huge patios.
Courtesy, Corazón Cabo Resort and Spa
Where I Ate And Best Drinks
The resort has multiple signature restaurants, including Aleta, a waterfront space that offers dishes with fresh-caught seafood. My favorite lunchtime standouts were ceviche (a refreshing traditional Mexican dish made with fish or shellfish, marinated in citrus, cilantro, peppers, and other flavors) and, of course, an assortment of tacos on corn or flour tortillas. (I tried cactus, octopus, fish, beef, pork, and shrimp, and none of them disappointed.) The Caribbean spirit in me is adventurous when it comes to food and heat, so you can enjoy both when there.
At dinner, there was a plethora of fresh farm-to-table Mexican dishes, something I was excited about since Mexican cuisine is not limited to tacos. Their marinated steak, a divine Caesar salad, the smoked braised brisket, Yucatan pork empanadas, and crusted sea bass served with a creamy risotto were my favs.
Another hot spot for good food and cocktails is Rooftop 360, located on the ninth floor. The best time to go is right before sunset, where you can see all the meshing of pastel purples, pinks, yellows, and blues dancing across the sky in panoramic views of the Sea of Cortez.
Courtesy, Corazón Cabo Resort and Spa
Courtesy, Corazón Cabo Resort and Spa
It was whimsical, romantic, and awe-inspiring. At night there’s a live DJ, and the key food highlights were their varieties of freshly made sushi, their chips and guacamole, and their signature drinks made with mezcal, which takes tequila to a whole other level with its smoky undertones. Trust and believe I won’t be ordering my usual Patron margarita the next time I’m at my favorite bar in the States.
The property also has the Camaleón Café, where I skipped the coffee and enjoyed a refreshing green juice, more ideal (for me) when prepping to go on a food tour or other excursion. The Baja Brewing Co., touted as the “first and only microbrewery in all of Baja California Sur,” is also on the rooftop terrace and boasts a beer crust pizza. (And if you know anything about beer and dough-making, you know this is a next-level combo since it gives the crust a certain texture and flavor that’s simply chef’s kiss!) You can also enjoy one of the other on-site bars, including Draque, which gave sexy-chic city vibes in the middle of a seaside oasis. Again, mezcal wins here, so order anything they offer on the menu with it.
Fun By The Seaside
The Corazón Beach Club was my favorite chill spot on the beach, where I enjoyed bar food, including wings, sushi, nachos, and the usual grilled fare. One particular Mexican-flared goodie took my heart: Their “Beach Hot Dog,” an addictively good sausage wrapped in bacon and served with mayo and pico de gallo on a brioche bun. There’s a DJ nearby, and it’s great for enjoying margaritas while people-watching and buying mementos to take home from the beach-side vendors walking back and forth advertising their goods. (I bought a T-shirt for bae and a chic large straw bag with Mexican tapestry accents.)
There are also several infinity pools with great views, where you can lounge, swim, order drinks, and simply enjoy the breeze and views. If you’re adventurous, you can book activities including paddleboarding, snuba (a cross between scuba and snorkeling, and eFoil (basically electric surfing). Or you can book a boat ride to see El Arco (or “The Arc,”) and make a stop at Playa del Amor (Lover's Beach), a beautifully quaint seaside spot, one of several with folklore tales.
Healing, Meditation, And Reflection
Corazón Cabo also offers services like the chakra massage at Sparitual, as well as aqua yoga. Both were just what I needed after a very busy and challenging two quarters of constant work and realignment. I wasn’t familiar with the benefits of chakra-related remedies nor its credibility going in. I’m a Christian, so typically I’d stay away from those sorts of things, but what I took from the experience was an open mind to expand my spiritual palate within the context of what I already believe.
It was a good sign that the chakra massage session started with the affirmation, “I am important, I am healthy, and I rebuke negative energy.” I'd actually prayed and gone to church right before the trip, so this was no more than confirmation about things I’d already been talking to God about.
Other interesting moments during the massage session were the scent of cloves (or some sort of mint) that I was asked to breathe in— a soothing note— and a shot of Damiana Liqueur, an herb-based Mexican drink that came from a bottle shaped like a curvy seated woman. I left the session feeling not only like the kinks in my back were literally rubbed out but thinking more positively about myself and the challenges I’m overcoming in this season.
Courtesy, Corazón Cabo Resort and Spa
Courtesy, Corazón Cabo Resort and Spa
Doing aqua yoga was another first-time adventure that helped me get past my hang-ups about water, my need to control everything in life, and my constant anxiety. It forced me to focus on balance, a theme both metaphorically and literally super-relevant right now. The instructor was patient, as initially I struggled to even get on the mat (which was anchored by weights so that it wouldn’t topple or float away). At more than 200 lbs, I came to Mexico a bit weary and felt heavy in many respects. While the water wasn’t deep in the infinity pool where we did the activity, overlooking the sea, I just didn’t want to embarrass myself.
The instructor kept quietly affirming, “You can do it. Take your time,” and her assistant even came in to help hold the mat while I awkwardly mounted it. Soon, I’d flow into the positions, appreciate the deep breathing techniques, and release the pressures through my hips, back, and arms.
I’ll definitely be venturing back to Cabo to continue the healing work that was done, experience more fresh foods, and get better acquainted with the wonderful wonders of God’s creations in Baja California Sur.
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RELATED
When they met, Jason had just moved to Atlanta for a new job opportunity, and Elise was living happily in her career and had put dating on the backburner. But luckily, a mutual connection saw something in both of them and thanks to a yoga-themed baby shower and a chance text message, they found their forever. Check out their beautiful How We Met story below.
I’ll start with the easiest question. Can you both tell me a little bit about yourself and your background?
Elise: Sure, my name is Elise. I’m actually from Atlanta, GA – not a transplant. I grew up here and left right after college to pursue my career. Now I’ve been back going on eight years, and I’m in my early 40s.
Jason: And I’m Jason. I’m originally from Racine, Wisconsin. I went to school at Florida A&M University, so I am a rattler. I went back to the Midwest for a period of time, in Indianapolis. Now, I’ve been in the Atlanta area for a little over two and a half years.
Jason and Elise Robinson
Photo by FotosbyFola
Wow, that’s nice because Atlanta gets a bad rap when it comes to relationships. So you have to give us the deets. How did you two find each other?
Elise: So I work in TV and I was on-air for a number of years and then transitioned into being a producer and then a manager. As a producer, I’d always have guests on. And there was a woman who came on frequently named Rosalynn (@Rosalynndaniels, often referred to as The Black Martha Stewart), and we connected instantly. Anyway, she got pregnant right before COVID and invited me to a “modern-day yoga baby shower.” I came to support, but was also just curious about that theme.
I had an amazing time. And when it was over a few of us stuck around and convos got personal. She ended up asking me the infamous ‘Are you dating’ question. When I told her no, she decided to set me up. So I should tell you, in both of my only two serious relationships, I was set up – so I was like no.
But she pointed at her husband, who was folding up chairs, and said that another friend set her up with him. Sometimes, it takes people outside of us to see what we need. A few months later, she reached out and said she had family relocating and thought I’d really like him. So she gave him my number, and I reached out with a text. He responded with a call, and that night, we talked for about 2-3 hours. So that’s how we met. I was a little nervous because me and Rosalynn were starting a friendship, and here I was, talking to her family!
Jason: It was new for me too. Remember, I was new to the area, and I had heard so many “stories” about how people have been done wrong in the dating world. Whether it’s by theft or scamming (laughs). Plus, I had just got a new job and wanted to focus on that. But I did want to be able to date someone in a more personal way and see where it led. I felt like who better than someone who I trust to connect me. Rosalynn knows I’m private, about business life, and my personal life is important to me.
So let’s get into your courtship. What was your first date like?
Elise: We had our first convo on a Monday, and he asked me out the next day. I didn’t have any plans, but I still said no. I was just playing hard to get (laughs). But we were talking every day, and he told me he wanted to take me somewhere I’ve never been. And I’m like, you’re in my city! But he sends me three options, and sure enough, two of the places I hadn’t gone to. So, our first date was October 1, 2021, and somebody was 45 minutes late.
Now Jason, why were you 45 minutes late?
Elise: It was me – in my own city. I just got turned around, and the traffic was horrible. I kept calling him and giving him permission to leave. Full transparency: I probably wouldn’t have waited if the shoe was on the other foot. But this was my first sign of what I now know and love the most about him. It’s his patience. When I got there, I was frazzled and everything, but he was just super calm. It ended up being a great first date.
Jason: I remember just waiting and being concerned for her well-being. Because I know how traffic can be, especially when someone is rushing. I was just scrolling through my phone and looking through the menu. It was cool.
Elise and Jason Robinson
Courtesy
That’s beautiful. Now let’s talk about the “what are we” convo? Did you have one of those and if so, who initiated it and how was it?
Elise: I initiated it. Jason was dating me – and still does. But by this time, we had been on a number of dates. We were on our way to a winery, and we had a bit of a drive. So I decided to state my intention. We were just a few weeks in, but we were spending a lot of time together and we are people of a particular age. So I told him, I know Atlanta can be a Black man’s playground. There’s so many beautiful professional women here. But I’m dating with intention. I don’t want to kick it or hang with a good guy even though he’s not my person. I was done with all of that. So I’m “laying down the law” in my eyes, and he didn’t flinch. He let me finish and basically let me know we were on the same page. He was not trying to sow his royal oats.
Jason: Yeah, I was not trying to be Prince Akeem. But also, it was more so about setting a tone and goal for myself. My mama always told me to set my goals. And having a family was always one of mine. I think the biggest thing of it all, was I felt blessed – in terms of moving for work and meeting Elise, now being married. There’s victories being placed in my life.
I love that you both shared that because sometimes I get feedback on these stories and it seems like sometimes we’re afraid to really voice what we desire, no matter what that looks like.
Elise: Yeah, I think sometimes women feel like they don’t want to put pressure on their partner. But it’s not pressure. Look, Jason and I are based in faith, and what is for us is for us. Being upfront and honest is best – and early makes sense. You don’t have to convince someone to be your person.
Jason: I think her sharing those values resonated with me, and hearing her “lay down the law” was fine because I was there, too. I would say to millennial women, don’t be afraid to tell a mate what you want. You never know what that would lead to. Time is a precious commodity. Elise saying that early on showed me that she values both of our time. It showed her heart, character, and integrity, and I was drawn to that and the mature conversation. In the social media world, we don’t have those pointed conversations face-to-face. I would challenge readers to have those conversations in person, and you would get more from that convo than any post or reel. Because you see body language reactions and have deeper communication.
Yeah, I think sometimes women feel like they don’t want to put pressure on their partner. But it’s not pressure. Look, Jason and I are based in faith, and what is for us is for us. Being upfront and honest is best – and early makes sense. You don’t have to convince someone to be your person.
You both have mentioned time, family, and integrity. I’m curious what other core values do you both share?
Elise: Early on, our faith. Not just do you believe in God. It had to be deeper in that. I needed someone who would lead me, our home, and our family. I didn’t want to be in a push-and-pull relationship about prayer, church, or have conversations about being better people. Also, we discussed finances. That doesn’t just mean going to work. We chatted about ownership and what it looks like for us. How do we support each other individually and together? I know I like having my hands in a few different pots, and I needed someone who was supportive of that and likewise.
Jason: My background is that I was raised in the church. My father is a deacon and my mom is a deaconess. They've been married for 55 years. Faith was very important to me and it was crucial that my wife have that relationship as well.
Elise and Jason Robinson
Photo by FotosbyFola
Can we talk about challenges? Big or small, what are some things you had to grow through together?
Elise: I have never lived with anyone – not a roommate, a sister, friend, boyfriend or anything. Now, I’m in my 40s and I'm living with someone. When you’ve been by yourself for so long that was a challenge for both of us. We weren’t pulling each other's hair out but I’m a bit extreme. Things are color-coded in my closet. For me, working in news is chaotic so I want my home to be peaceful and organized.
Jason: I’m a man, and she’s a woman. That dynamic alone adds a flair to it. She wants things a certain way. She’s a Capricorn. But just in terms of how she wants to keep a home was a big adjustment for me. It took time.
On a smaller level, what are some of the things you disagree about day-to-day?
Elise: Cleanliness and systems. Like, he recycles and I do not. But sometimes I just have to decide if it really needs to be a thing or if I can just take care of it.
Jason: This is where my organization takes over (laughs).
What are your love languages? Do you know?
Elise: Jason’s is an act of service which works because I love cooking for him. It doesn’t feel like a chore to me. I love when I’m out, picking up his favorite juice. The other day I saw he needed t-shirts while folding clothes. So I just like doing small things for him that he doesn’t expect. He’s very much that guy that will ask to help so it doesn’t bother me.
Jason: I’d say Elise is all of them, but physical touch would probably be the biggest one. I had to get used to that. She’s taught me it in a number of ways. I remember we actually talked about love languages, and I sent her this song called “More Than Words” by Extreme. That explained to her how I felt.
Finally, can we end with the proposal? Tell us everything!
Jason: It was at a restaurant. And again, I was trying to find somewhere she hadn’t been. Also, I didn’t want to do it on our anniversary because that would have been too obvious. I contacted one of the restaurant’s staff and decided to change up the dessert menu. Each item was something special to us.
Elise: We go on so many date nights, so I just thought it was a regular night. We had finished eating, and I had to go to the bathroom. They had a nice mirror, girl. So I’m in there taking videos and stuff.
Jason: While she’s in the restroom, I’m getting everything in place with the waitress.
Elise: So as I’m reading the menu, I realize it’s telling our story and he eventually proposed. It was so special; I actually had the menu framed! It was so beautiful and thoughtful.
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Today, the lane that I’m gonna be in is how you can apply certain essential oils to your nail care regimen. Since it should be the goal of all of us to be intentional about doing what we can to havestrong and healthy nails, I’m going to share with you 10 oils that are proven to help you reach that very goal (just make sure that youmix them with a carrier oil like apricot, grapeseed or jojoba first; essential oils are way more potent than they are oftentimes given credit for).
The Best Essential Oils for Nail Health
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1. Tea Tree Oil
Believe it or not,nail fungus is pretty common.Some studies say that 1 in 10 people will experience it; that number jumps to 1 in 2 for individuals over 70. When it comes to this, signs to look out for are nails that look white, yellow, or brown, nails that seem to rise up from your nail bed, nails that are cloudy-looking in areas, and/or nails that easily break or split in more than one spot. Depending on how serious the fungal growth is, your doctor may prescribe an oral medication, a prescription-strength topical one, or even try a laser treatment of some sort.
However, if what you’re going through is minor, you might only needsome tea tree oil to get everything under control. Since it’s the type of essential oil that contains potent antifungal and antiseptic properties, applying it to nail fungus can significantly reduce fungal growth in a relatively short period of time without over-drying your nails in the process.
2. Myrrh Oil
Since myrrh oil contains so many powerful antioxidants and is able tokill harmful bacteria quickly, that already makes it a great essential oil for nail care. Also, since it contains properties that help to keep your skin healthy, it’s also a wonderful cuticle oil (especially if you mix it with a carrier oil like sweet almond oil, plum oil, or sesame oil). Another thing to keep in mind is if you’ve recently injured your nail(s) in some way, myrrh oil contains properties that help to reduce swelling at a pretty accelerated pace.
3. Juniper Berry Oil
An essential oil that has a good reputation for both healing as well as protecting your skin is juniper berry oil. In fact, if you’ve got a bit of foot odor going on or you’ve noticed some nail fungus creeping up, if you apply the oil to your feet (or nails) while you’re in the shower, it can help to eliminate the smells and speed up the healing process.
Another bonus about this particular oil is it has astringent properties that can help to keep your nails nice and clean.
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4. Lavender Oil
Another oil that’s ideal forfighting nail fungus is lavender oil. In fact, in Healthline’s article, “Can You Use Essential Oil for Toenail Fungus?” lavender is on the list. That’s not all. If you happen to havenail eczema,the properties of lavender oil have the ability to soothe and heal the symptoms that come along with it, including nail softness and shedding. It’s also a good idea to keep in mind that if you want to addmoisture to your nails or cuticles, lavender oil is one that can hydrate your nails without a ton of residue.
5. Clove Oil
Since clove oil is considered to be an antimicrobial oil, it’s another one that is able to kill bacteria. Something else that’s cool about this oil is it can bring quick relief to pain and discomfort if you’ve broken a nail or you’ve got a hangnail that’s getting on your last nerve.Two other big wins about clove oil are it can help to even out any skin discoloration that you may have around your cuticles and it can help to keep your nails and hands looking youthful too (because, yes,nails do age).
6. Sage Oil
Sage oil also has some pretty impressive antibacterial properties in it. It also has the ability to condition your skin as well as your nails. This means that if you happen to struggle with brittle nails or nails that seem to peel, applying this oil to it can help to naturally reverse those issues. Also, if your nails seem to look a bit on the dull side, sage nails can give them a natural sheen if polish isn’t (really) your thing.
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7. Geranium Oil
An essential oil that’s great at fighting off all types of infections isgeranium oil. What I especially like about it,as far as nail care is concerned, is that it’s got a solid reputation for moisturizing your nails so that they’re able to grow stronger and longer. Since it’s an oil thatcontains anti-aging properties, geranium oil can help to keep your hands (and feet) younger-looking for a longer period of time as well.
8. Lemon Oil
Hangnails are the absolute worst. Typically, those annoying things come as the result of having dry cuticles or constantly picking (or biting) the skin around your nails. If you make a cuticle oil out oflemon oil, not only can that help to nourish your cuticles and nails, but it can also repair any tissue damage that you may have as well as deeply cleanse your nails too. This, as a direct result, can help your nails to become stronger over time (plus, it doesn’t exactly taste the best, so it can help to keep your mouth off of your nails…which is a good thing).
9. Eucalyptus Oil
One of the most potent ways to treat a nail fungal infection is toapply some eucalyptus oil to it. In fact, one of the best things about taking this particular all-natural approach to a nail infection is it can kill the fungi without totally drying out your nails in the process. Also, if you’re looking for an oil that will protect your all-natural nails frompotential environmental damage, eucalyptus oil totally has your back as far as that is concerned.
10. Vanilla Oil
Now,I’m definitely preaching to the choir when I say that you should take a break from nail polish every once in a while. Just like your skin needs a mini-vacation from cosmetics and your hair needs one from the product (build-up), your nails need time to breathe on occasion, too; otherwise, the chemicals in the polish can lead to breakage, peeling, and weak nails overall. And while you’re on the break, try applying some vanilla oil to your nails and your nail beds.The antioxidants in the oil can help to speed up the healing process of your nails as well as reduce inflammation (if you’ve got any of that going on). It can also help to nourish your nails as they prepare for another few months of nail color.
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I’m telling you, although there are all kinds of nail products on the market, if you get your hands on a few staple essential oils, you can feel confident that you’re giving your nails some chemical-free, holistically beneficial oils that will get your nails right in so many ways. I’m looking at my nails as I’m typing all of this out, and I can certainly attest to it. Try it — ain’t no way that you (and your nails) won’t like it!
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