February focus: Taking time for yourself this winter

While winter runs on and warm, long summer days seem too far away to imagine and holidays like Valentine’s Day have us focusing on others, it is still important to remember that self-care is important for managing stress and maintaining good health.

Self-care may look a little bit different for everyone. For some it may mean getting outside more and others it may mean simplifying and doing less. Either way, here are some great local options for nurturing growth, getting outside and taking some time to relax.

Retreat
Ways to Wellness Women’s Retreat – This three day session coming up March 2-4^th is hosted by Ways to Wellness owner Jo Currier. The class takes place in a beautiful nature setting focusing on personal growth and renewal as participants will focus on empowering their mind, body and spirit. You can find more information about the class here or by calling 989.486.3820.

Onsite massage
Don’t feel like going anywhere and still want to treat yourself? Book a service in your home like massage services provided by Achieving Peace Onsite Massage for Women. Owner Jillian Kolnitys is certified in many types of massage but specializes in Traditional Thai Massage. When not providing onsite massage, you’ll find Jillian taking clients at Element 22 in Midland.

Let your troubles float away
New to Downtown Midland is MI Float, a wellness treatment you may want to check out! What is it? MI Float has private rooms equipped with salt-water filled pods (think of it as your own personal hot tub) where the saltwater is so buoyant, you effortlessly float. The treatments typically last 60-90 minutes and can relieve stress and anxiety, improve muscle recovery in athletes and relieve pressure all over the body, especially on joints. You can try your first float for the reduced price of $55. Floaters have the option of soft lighting and music during their session if they choose.

Laugh it off
Sometimes the best way to distress is to get together with friends for a few good laughs. You can do that at next week’s upcoming trivia night at Live Oak Coffeehouse. The event features some fun trivia from The Office. Grab some friends and make a night of it. The event runs from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Friday, February 23.

Learn something new
Stretch your skill set and learn something new and fun in the process. Dancing Armadillo Body Art (which you may have seen at the Midland Area Farmers Market over the summer) is teaching a henna class on February 22nd from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. also at Live Oak Coffehouse. The class and full materials runs $30/person.

Sweat it out
Check out a yoga class in Downtown Midland at The Yoga Place, any number of fitness classes at Greater Midland or a local studio like Element 22 or Alignment 8, both of which offer first timers a week for free to check out any class they want.

Take in a show
Check out some of the upcoming shows at Midland Center for the Arts like Oedipus the King, Comedy Night or Cirque Eloize.

Train for spring
The annual kickoff to spring and summer that local's find in both the Loon's Pennant Race and Dow RunWalk are just around the corner. If you're considering running or walking for the first time or training for another year, now is a great time to get them on the calendar. You'll find registration information at Greater Midland. 

Whatever your preferences may be, there are many local options for getting in a little self-care as we near the end of winter.