10 Great Self-Care Spots in Santa Monica
10 Great Self-Care Spots in Santa Monica
Shelby Stone, MMFT
You’ve heard it before: Self-care! But what exactly is self-care and why should you practice it? As a transplant to this beautiful and challenging city, I have come up with a list of 10 great self-care spots in Santa Monica to practice making the most out of where you are.
It’s no surprise that living in a busy, congested city like Los Angeles can be difficult. From long commutes and parking tickets to housing costs and trying to “make it,” stress impacts us and interferes with dreams of mellow beach life. As a Santa Monica therapist, I know the conundrum of being so close to the ocean but sometimes failing to actually take the time to walk along the sand. But this type of activity is so important as self-care remains one of the best ways to reduce daily stress.
Self-care is actively participating in activities that refresh us mentally, emotionally, and physically. Self-care is meant to be enjoyable. Not forced. To be a healthy life choice. Not a selfish act. Think of a point where you have felt emotionally, physically, or mentally “strung out.” At that moment in time, were you able to help others, be a supportive partner or friend, positively contribute at your job? Probably not. When you practice self-care on a regular basis, you are able to handle your own issues and remain present and engaged in your relationships more easily. That is not selfish at all.
Check out this list of Santa Monica self-care spots to spark your self-care journey:
Brunch away at Bondi Harvest: Get away from the hectic busy streets or even walk to this little hole in the wall restaurant. With plenty of outdoor seating and whimsical table arrangements, you can’t help but relax at this Australian owned spot. Not only will the healthy food feed you physically but its yumminess will feed your soul.
Hike the Santa Monica Stairs: Although some “do it for the Gram,” hiking up the famous stairs is a great way to get some physical exercise to boost your mood and a great opportunity to spend quality time with a buddy, group of friends, or partner. You can also scale this feat on your own for an extra dose of self-confidence.
Listen to the music on Third Street Promenade: If you don’t mind the hustle and bustle of this shopping hub, take the time to stroll slowly along this street at night and listen to the various musicians. Maybe get in touch with your silly side and participate in one of the magicians or acrobats acts. Try not to run any errands and just enjoy the energy and creativity of LA’s aspiring stars.
Explore the new Erewhon Market: Erewhon serves healthy and pure foods that are ethically and sustainably produced. Not always the cheapest, but you get what you pay for! Turn your grocery shopping into self-care as the new location promises to have a gorgeous patio and terraced courtyard to kickback with their incredible made to order food options. Check out the trendy Venice location until the SanMo location opens April 11th.
Appreciate art at Bergamot: A lesser known spot (formerly named “Bergamot Station”), this collection of over 40 art galleries housed in a former trolley station is a contemporary art mecca. Another spot to enjoy alone or with companions, you will be continually stimulated by new works as the galleries continually changeup exhibits. Don’t forget to check out the toys at the gift shop or to grab a sandwich at Bergamot Cafe.
Treat yourself at Exhale Santa Monica: Kick your self-care into full gear with spa treatments, like massages, facials, or pedicures, fitness classes, or just hang out in the zen lounge. This studio and spa, located in the Fairmont Miramar Hotel and Bungalows, is open to not only hotel guests but to LA residents. This escape will really help you to recharge your batteries and relax.
Indulge your sweet tooth at Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee: From Maple Bacon to Basil Eggs Benedict, this place makes incredibly delicious doughnuts and keeps it fresh with monthly flavors. And never fear, they also have gluten free flavors for those with allergies. Take time to savor this treat and enjoy their outside patio or take a walk on Wilshire Blvd.
Karaoke at The Gaslite: A great way to blow off steam and have fun with friends is to practice your musical or not-so-musical abilities with karaoke. You do not have to be a singer to have a carefree night whether spontaneous or booked for your party in advance. Definitely a Santa Monica and personal must do.
Visit the Farmer’s Market: Always an opportunity to take a relaxing walk outdoors, enjoy the sunshine, and meet new people, shopping around at the Sunday farmer’s market is an easy opportunity for self-care. Get inspired with fresh produce to try out a new recipe or shop for local art. This is an easy way to check out Main Street.
Go the the Beach: Enjoy the beauty of Santa Monica by actually taking advantage of the beach. Whether you enjoy walking in the sand, surfing in the ocean, riding the rides of Santa Monica Pier, bicycling on The Strand, or soaking up the sunset, take the time to be in nature and listen to the waves.
Basic Steps to Self-care:
- The first step is figuring out what works for you. What do you enjoy doing? What brings you feelings of contentment, relaxation, and pleasure? What makes you feel recharged and refreshed? This looks different for different people. Some enjoy a bubble bath alone while others enjoy a rigorous hike with a group of friends.
- The next step is making time for yourself and your self-care. Self-care can be small or large. If you only have 5 minutes, make those 5 minutes count! Meditate. Engage in positive self-talk. Take a breath. Do a little dance. Whatever floats your boat. But try to schedule this time for yourself. Put it on your calendar and protect that time because it is important.
- Finally, check in with yourself. What is working and what is not? The key to finding balance in your life is to continue to check in on your progress and assess what is going well and what is causing excess stress. Do you like doing multiple small self-care activities a day or one big activity? Are you enjoying these activities or are some of them increasing rather than reducing anxiety? Self-care is for your health and well-being so take it seriously.
Whatever you decide, keep it up!
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