Even the most enamored fans of New York need a break from its infectious energy now and again. These 5 reviving wellness experiences will help you find some balance despite the city’s frenetic pace.
Despite being in the heart of the concrete jungle, you’re still within easy reach of the real thing (well, almost). The New York Botanical Garden is an advocate for the plant kingdom and boasts 250 acres of lush gardens, complete with 50 speciality gardens and more than one million plants.
Step away from the honking horns and fumes of the streets and explore the lush sprawling hills of Central Park on a 5k fun run. Tour guides will lead you on a running tour that weaves past the park’s most famous landmarks, including the John Lennon Strawberry Fields memorial, the Great Lawn, and the Bethesda Fountain overlooking the lake. The fresh air and manicured landscapes are definitely superior to the treadmill in a dingy hotel gym.
Refresh your mind, body and soul at a Vinyasa Yoga Class taking place in an iconic landmark building in the heart of New York City’s Soho district. Combine measured breathing and a variety of standing and seated postures in order to reach and maintain a state of relaxation. All you need to bring is yourself – yoga mats and props are provided along with hot tea.
One of the many treatments at Liangtse Wellness | Courtesy of Liangtse Wellness
The first US location of the quintessential Chinese spa Liangtse Wellness is an opulent gold-hued space in Midtown East. Its treatments include acupressure oil and hot-stone massages, as well as moxa healing – a therapy from traditional Chinese medicine that involves burning herbs over specific parts of the body. Moxibustion, as it’s also known, is said to ease pain and discomfort and aid digestion and detoxification. It’s the perfect way to soothe your aching back and legs after trekking around New York ticking off the touristy sites.
Whether it’s your first time in Central Park or your 99th visit, a walking tour of NYC’s favorite green space is an itinerary essential. A former park employee will guide you past landmarks, movie locations, and other places of cultural significance, providing insider insights that help you appreciate the space in a deeper way. By the time two hours have passed, you’ll feel serene and ready to hit the city’s sights again.
