From Spas to Art Galleries: How to Self-Care in New York City

It’s another late night in the office. The open floor plan meant to emulate community is completely desolate. Your project’s deadline is coming around the corner. You haven’t had time for yourself all week. The only thing stopping you from packing up your things to leave this city is something wondrous yet so far away: the weekend.

Focusing on your work is never a bad thing. Who doesn’t enjoy putting in the effort towards a promotion or a big bonus? But let’s remind ourselves one thing: it’s okay to take a step back and breathe. In other words, take care of your mind, emotions, and material needs before pushing yourself overboard. Peace of mind is equally, if not more, important than driving yourself insane at work. And yes, self-care is more than binge-watching Netflix and eating chocolate. Here are a few ideas for relieving yourself from work stress!

Daphne Spa, Nolita

There’s something to be said about companies that accurately master the ambiance of luxury in self-indulgence, and Daphne Studios in Nolita does just that. The streamlined, ultra-lux interior automatically eases your mind and prepares you for an otherworldly facial. White walls envelop the space to evoke a clear state-of-mind, while soft music hums in the background.

There are many things that make this spa special, so I’m not sure words will accurately describe the elite services at Daphne Studio. First and foremost, each client is treated differently. The company deeply understands that different skin types require different treatments. Newcomers begin with a consultation from one of the studio’s expert aestheticians, so they can determine which facial best suits your skin. They do most facials by hand, using organic products such as Biologique Recherche, and offer additional services such as sugaring and detox wrapping. There are only four rooms available at a time, and nothing says luxury more than privacy.

Carré d’Artistes, West Village

Ease the mind and celebrate life with acrylic paint, gold-leaf, canvas, artful portraits and oil paint. If there’s anything that can help you de-stress, it’s the large variety of art found at Carréd’Artistes.

I know what you’re thinking. Art gallery? How snobby. But not this one. Located in New York’s West Village, Carré d’Artistes makes shopping for original art easy and relaxing with an extremely friendly staff and approachable layout. Showcasing about 25 artists from around the world, the gallery exhibits original work ranging from $150-$630 or beyond for larger sizes. Indulging in beautiful creations? Now that’s self-care.

Buddhist Insights, Meditation Center

Self-care doesn’t always mean material goods. In fact, reconnecting with yourself may be a better option to relieve yourself from sensory overload. After a recent relocation from Rockaway Beach to West Orange, New Jersey, the exalted monastics at Buddhist Insights continue to invite anyone and everyone to join their practice. Join them in free meditation retreats that are not only beneficial but essential to living life peacefully.

The monastics at Buddhist Insights wholly welcome individuals from all backgrounds with arms open wide. The center provides a refuge to help heal internal struggles, reset mentality, practice gratitude, and develop mindfulness. Whetherit’sa day visit, a week visit or beyond, you can learned priceless skills from masters of mental self-care. If everyone took part in these practices, the world would be a much easier place to live.

The New York Botanical Garden

Picture this: you’re surrounded by clusters of trees that tower over you as streams of sunlight peek through. Your eyelids close and bask in the warmth of the sun. Suddenly, you hear a light rush coming from a body of water in the distance. Then the sounds of squirrels and birds speaking in their language fill your ears. You reopen your eyes and suddenly feel refreshed and at ease. Alas, the magic of The New York Botanical Garden has left a mark on your soul.  

Located in the Bronx right across from Fordham University, The New York Botanical Garden is exactly what it sounds like: an oasis in a loud, bustling world. If there’s any place that allows you to take a break in a natural environment, it’s here. From extensive flower nurseries to secluded forests to rock gardens, this is the ultimate place to check in with yourself. Aside from all its natural elements, the gardens offer a full schedule of events. For the month of February, check out The Orchid Show: Jeff Leatham’s Kaleidoscope is taking center stage.