Take Time for YOU This Holiday Season

The season of perpetual holidays is upon us. All of the hustle and bustle that accompanies Thanksgiving and Christmas can be fun, but it can also lead to a serious case of burn-out.

The good news? Taking time out to recharge doesn’t have to, well, take a lot of time. The Avenue is your one-stop shop for indulging in some well-deserved R&R. Here are some of our favorite ways to carve out quality “me time” from the most wonderful (and rushed) season of the year.

1. Gather your best pals and spend an hour (or three) chatting about anything and everything—except your to-do lists. Grab a signature hot chocolate and scone from Panera Bread or satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to Menchie’s. Or, go more upscale and meet for an evening of drinks and desserts at Aspens Signature Steaks.

2. It’s the season of cocktail parties, neighborhood get-togethers and gatherings with friends and family. To keep you feeling fresh during all the festive face-time, sneak in some time for a microdermabrasion facial at the Natural Body Spa and Shop.

3. Peruse the books and magazines at Barnes & Noble, then cozy up with your pick to replenish your heart and soul. (A pertinent read this time of year—The Best Yes: Making Wise Decisions in the Midst of Endless Demands.) 

4. Commit an hour or two to trying something new. Always wanted to take a cooking class? Join one at Williams-Sonoma to learn from their talented chefs and culinary experts. Think cake decorating, knitting or jewelry making is up your alley? Sign up for a class at Michaels. 

5. Relax with a hot stone massage at Hand & Stone. (Insider tip: Add the peppermint scalp massage and hot towel foot and hand treatment for the ultimate massage experience.) Or, if getting your blood pumping is what recharges you best, head over to barre3 (“where ballet barre meets yoga and Pilates”) to melt away stress.