New Year, New You: 6 Ways for Moms to Treat Themselves
Not only have you spent the past year (or countless years!) always putting your little ones before yourself, all moms still deserve a little me-time. Not to mention that many of us have just gotten home from a holiday vacation that, while a fun-filled trip away from home, might not have exactly been stress-free—especially with tiny tots. Now, as we embark upon the New Year, it’s time to give yourself a break. Whether that means a girls weekend, spa day, or simply an afternoon outing all on your own, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite ways for all moms to treat themselves. Because we can’t think of someone more deserving of a little luxe escape from reality!
Girls Weekend
Whether you’re a stay-at-home mom or one who heads to the office for hours every day, let dad give you a few days off from mom-duty all the same. Book a weekend to indulge with all your best girlfriends; whether at a spa, taking an old-fashioned road-trip, or even flying somewhere for an indulgent long weekend. The world is your oyster! At least for a few days…Whether hitting the beach in the summer or hunkering down for a quaint winter weekend, we love hopping in the car and taking a drive out to Cape Cod, where we frequent the Chatham Bars Inn more often than anywhere else.
Chatham Bars Inn, 297 Shore Road, Chatham, MA. (800) 527-4884.
Spa Day
Take a few hours out of your hectic schedule and indulge in a spa day. Don’t just go for a single treatment, though. Really settle in. Choose a spa that has a full-body massage, facial, steam room, mani-pedis, and the works. You’ll emerge feeling like a totally different person. One of our particular favorites is Joanna Vargas in New York City with not only an extensive menu of treatments, but also an environment that will make you feel as though you’re re-setting yourself no matter what’s on the agenda for the day,
Joanna Vargas Salon, 501 5thAvenue, NYC. (212) 949-2350.
Staycation
Whether alone or with your co-parent, ‘tis the season to book a night at that fancy hotel you’ve been wanting to try. Because let’s be honest: how many times have you actually stayed at a hotel in your own city? Especially if you live in a bustling metropolitan area, our money is on the fact that your home is jam-packed with some of the most pamper-worthy places to stay. Cozy up, get a massage, climb into that king-size bed, and order some room service and champagne. One of our favorite staycation spots in New York is the Crosby Street Hotel. Tucked away just off the beaten path in the heart of SoHo, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a quaint street in London, even if you’re barely steps from your own front door. What’s more, if you can’t quite swing a whole night-away-from-home, we love this spot for a quick drink or delicious bite as well.
The Crosby Street Hotel, 79 Crosby Street, NYC. (212) 226-6400.
Date Night
A night away from your kids doesn’t have to mean a night away from your whole family. Now is the time to go out with your other half for that date night you’ve been talking about—for months. And now that you don’t get to grab that romantic couples time as often as you used to, try to find a restaurant that isn’t your usual spot. Maybe it’s a little drive away, maybe it’s a local spot with a cool tasting menu, or maybe a locale that’s known for their all-knowing sommelier. Whatever it is that gets you excited for a few hours of out-of-the-house-time, go for it! Might we recommend Terroir Tribeca if you find yourself in NYC, with not only a wine selection that’s largely unmatched but also an owner and sommelier, Paul Greico, who will share with you wines that you’ve never experienced before—and will not be able to stop dreaming about.
Terroir Tribeca, 24 Harrison Street, NYC. (212) 625-9463.
Play Hookie From Work
If you’re a working mom who doesn’t want to take precious time away from your kiddies, knowing you spend your days sitting in the office while they’re playing at home, consider calling in sick and sacrificing some of those paid hours instead. It could be as simple as spending the day eating lunch in the park and seeing a movie—or perhaps a shopping spree or spa day (See above!), but there’s something about a secret slip-out of the office that feels oh-so indulgent.
Take A Class
If you want to set aside some time for yourself on a weekly basis, now might be the time to sign up for a class you’ve been eyeing. Go to the local art school to sign up for a sketching or painting class, learn a new language, or head to the museum for some continuing education on your favorite artists. The Metropolitan Museum is not only a New York City landmark, but also provides a wide list of classes, both one-off as well as continuing weekly gatherings, that will have you expanding your artistic and historical knowledge as you once remember loving in college.
Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 5thAvenue, NYC. (212) 535-7710.
