Whether you’re living in LA or visiting family or friends in California for the holidays, you may find yourself feeling a little stressed. After all, on top of your average Winter Blues, the holiday season can be an overwhelming time for many of us. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to try and relax in the Golden State and slide into the new year, genuinely able to say “New Year, New Me.” Let’s look at some easy ways to take a minute and unwind in Los Angeles.
Zen Out
With several gardens to choose from to relax and unwind, getting your Zen on in Los Angeles is easy. One place to check out is The James Irvine Japanese Garden. There is an almost 200-foot stream that flows from a waterfall and countless gorgeous trees to relax under. The scenery is virtually unparalleled. Another LA garden on your must-visit list if you’re trying to center yourself is the famous Peace Awareness Labyrinth and Garden. Nestled in a bustling city, the many fountains and meditation gardens at the Peace Awareness Labyrinth and Garden are the perfect spots to set your intentions and goals for the New Year.
Culver City Calm
Culver City has many unique places to unwind and reset heading into the new year. Museums are a great place to start – while looking at art from the past and visions of the future – you can get a good perspective on where you’ve been and where you’re headed. If you’re in Culver City, check out The Wende Museum. This non-profit museum holds the German word for “turning point,” which every new year is, after all. You should also visit The Museum of Jurassic Technology. While both museums may seem like they cater to a niche audience, everyone enjoys the exhibits they house.
Other places to relax in Culver City, like the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, are entirely free and can help you gain perspective as you take in the vastness of the world around you. And, check out Culver City Park if you want to maintain your physical fitness and get a head start on some of your New Year’s Resolutions!
Spa Day In Mar Vista
Taking care of your body is essential from the inside and the outside. Your skin is an excellent indicator of your overall health, and your mental health requires days dedicated to self-care. With several award-winning spas in Mar Vista, take advantage of one or two, so you can glow up for the new year. Tomoko Japanese Spa, Organic To Green, and Larchmont Sanctuary Spa are several spas worth visiting. Ask your massage therapist to rub you with some topical magnesium oil to maximize the benefits of the bodywork and ease aches and pains.
If you don’t feel like getting a full body massage, go with a facial or any anti-aging treatment – new year doesn’t mean you have to look a year older. Or visit a medical spa and splurge on some injectables and fillers to take years off!
Good Eats In Palms
Some of the best food in California is in the Palms. Make sure you take care of yourself by enjoying one of life’s greatest pleasures – eating! While cooking isn’t always the most relaxing task in the world, enjoying someone else’s wares sure is. Palms has some phenomenal restaurants worth checking out. Some of the most noteworthy dishes can be found at restaurants like La Perlita, Copely’s, and Spencer’s Restaurant. If you’re in need of a pick me up after a hectic holiday season, the coffee at Ristretto is world-famous. While there are plenty of spas and botanical gardens to enjoy in The Palms, it’s essential to keep yourself satiated along your journey to relaxation.
Waterside In Del Rey
Even if you’re a California native and used to seeing the water regularly, unwinding by the water never gets old. If you’re in the Del Rey area, check out some of the excellent harbors to get a great view and relax. Make sure you stop by Marina Del Rey Harbor (enjoy the magnificent trail while you’re there) and go to Mother’s Beach too!
Stepping into the new year is nothing to be worried about; you don’t have to have a massive goal or resolution – studies show they get abandoned anyway. Instead, focus on living more peacefully, more mindfully, and feeling better in your skin this coming year. It will pay off in spades. Here’s to your health and your peace!
