Yowza! Since the new year is off to a stressful start, there’s no better time to start a self-care routine. Fortunately for Chicagoans, more than a handful of wellness offerings designed to enhance the mind and body can be booked before one can yell “Serenity Now!”
YOGA CLASSES
360 CHICAGO is the site for Sky Yoga on Saturday mornings. Known for her holistic approach to fitness and well-being, Kimmie Prokurat leads a full-body Pilates class (Jan. 18) that focuses on strength, flexibility and balance. Next is Puppy Yoga (Jan. 25), a unique session featuring actual downward doggies. Participating pups are adoptable from One Tail at a Time. All proceeds from the event (which includes puppy playtime) support this animal rescue organization and its mission to end pet homelessness.
RESORT PASS
Live like the posh and pampered with Resort Pass. Participants gain access to hotel amenities without having to reserve a room. Opt for a mani/pedi at the Four Seasons Hotel; indulge in a relaxation massage with unlimited access to the indoor heated pool, sauna and steam room at the Waldorf Astoria; get an Ultimate Bath Spa Pass at AIRE Ancient Baths; or enjoy a daycation at the Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown. Additional hotels accepting the pass include the InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile, the Westin Chicago River North, and The Spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago.
ONLINE MEDITATION
Meditation is accessible via the internet thanks to composer Murray Hidary who created MindTravel. This virtual community lets users experience meditative silent walks and live piano concerts without having to join a gym.
MEMBERSHIP WITH BENEFITS
Of course, Midtown Athletic Club is on hand for those who do want to use state-of-the-art equipment, boutique fitness studios, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis and pickleball courts, steam rooms, lounges, turf training areas, and stylish social spaces. Its Chicago location has a new Family Plan that features weekly classes, a full-service spa, seasonal kids’ camps—and two hours of free childcare daily!
RESTORATION HEALTH
As part of its annual Swedish-inspired Säg Hej Health & Wellness celebration, the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce is launching its inaugural Explore & Restore: A Health, Wellness and Service Open House (Jan. 24) with Clark Street Trading Post pop-ups; the grand openings of Little Greene Paint and Paper; Heritage Home Supply; and more.
PUZZLE DELIVERY
Those looking for an engaging way to slow down, unplug and reset may want to join Completing the Puzzle since neuroscientists note that puzzling stimulates both sides of the brain and can help humans enter a meditative state. Subscribers to this unique service receive a premium puzzle to exchange for a new one after completion.
LIVE LAUGHTER
According to the Mayo Clinic, laughing relieves stress. So, seeing a comedy is just what the doctor ordered. In Glen Ellyn, Buffalo Theatre Ensemble presents Paul Slade Smith’s Unnecessary Farce (Jan. 29-March 1) at the McAninch Arts Center while Tony Award-winner Robert Falls directs the classic rom-com Holiday (Jan. 31-March 1) at Goodman’s Albert Theatre in Chicago. “This play is the definition of ‘effervescent’…” says Walter Artistic Director Susan V. Booth.
PAY IT FORWARD
The simple act of giving back can lower blood pressure and boost immunity since it releases endorphins and activates the brain’s reward system. With this in mind, it may do wellness fans well to donate to The Gentle Barn where founder Ellie Laks offers Cow Hug Therapy®, Equine Therapy, and Turkey Cuddle Therapy sessions to help humans and animals alike.
