Self-care is vital for leading a healthy life. A “reset” trip is the perfect way to bring in the new year, especially for anyone who finds themselves burned out after working hard. Even if you rarely take time off work, planning a short trip by yourself may be beneficial. Not only can you explore new cities, but you can also leave your worries behind and find inner peace and happiness through self-care activities. We are sharing six places where you can find your own zen.
New Orleans, LA
Whether you’re looking to try something different or expand your horizons, this city is definitely worth the visit. You can find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the arts, music, and food that reflect the city’s Southern roots as well as its thriving LGBTQ scene.
Other activities are available for introverts who want time alone. For instance, you can take one of the many historical tours around town or visit a museum by yourself to learn more about American history. If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, you could visit the Audubon Butterfly Garden, an expansive garden with hundreds of species of butterflies.
Knoxville, TN
One of the great things about Knoxville is how it’s off the beaten path for most Americans, which means you’ll have an authentic cultural experience without the hustle and bustle of tourists. Take your time to explore the city’s top attractions, like the Sunsphere, or spend an afternoon relaxing at World’s Fair Park. You’ll also have access to plenty of museums, galleries, and theaters if you’re interested in arts and culture.
Knoxville is also an affordable place to live, which means you won’t have to worry about draining your savings. Combined with its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains, Knoxville can be a nice destination for a vacation home. You can even rent your vacation home to others throughout most of the year when you aren’t using it or split your time in the house with your friends.
Denver, CO
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, the Mile High City definitely deserves a look for your reset experience. Denver gets 300 days of sun per year, so anytime is a good time to be outside. And you’ll find plenty of things to do, from riding on bike trails, to visiting botanical gardens, to taking in a show at the Red Rocks Amphitheater.
San Diego, CA
You could go to dozens of different places in California, but San Diego has some unique attractions that set it apart from the rest. You’ll find great weather and beaches as well as a tremendous variety of activities for those who like bands or surfing.
If you want to enjoy some quality alone time, you can visit museums and art galleries. For instance, the Mingei International Museum is dedicated to showcasing art pieces, folk crafts, and worldwide cultural artifacts. If you want something more peaceful, you could visit Balboa Park for self-guided tours through 15 different gardens that reflect various cultures.
New York City, NY
The city that never sleeps truly offers something for everyone who visits. Whether you fancy seeing the shows on Broadway, singing “take me out to the… Yankees game!” at the ballpark, or bar crawling through Brooklyn, you’re bound to enjoy yourself. Everyone should visit New York at least once, so put it on your self-care itinerary.
Sedona, AZ
For those seeking mild winter weather, consider visiting Sedona, Arizona. It’s a great place to escape the harsh winter months if you’re tired of high heating bills and snow. Not only can you view red rocks from above, but you can also explore trails around town to discover unique rock formations. Sedona also offers one-of-a-kind shops, museums, and restaurants.
Take a Trip to Rejuvenate
It can be difficult to commit to taking time off, but it’s so important to engage in this type of self-care. If you’re worrying about how everything will get done, give yourself time to plan. You can train a few competent employees on your most important tasks, or hire a virtual assistant to keep track of things while you’re out. But the most important thing is to really walk away for the duration of your vacation. Don’t check your work cell phone or your work email. Just relax.
Besides providing fun activities, a short vacation will help you refill your metaphorical well. By visiting new places, you’re expanding your horizons and comfort zone. Visit a new city this year, and enjoy a self-care reset that will bring happiness and joy to your life.
