There’s something about flipping the page to a brand new year that makes us want to change everything. I cleaned my apartment, de-cluttered my bookshelves and am contemplating finally getting rid of those gold strappy heels that I can walk about twenty-three steps in before my ankles feel broken. Now, it’s on to the ‘me’ stuff.
DETOX
Let’s face it, no matter how good you tried to be, the holidays are a den of slack when it comes to diet. I’m usually pretty healthy, but by about the fourteenth, I’d adopted a ‘not going to worry about it until January’ motto. Now, it’s time to detox. Juice Truck is a great option when you’re looking for a mid-day pick me up that isn’t poutine, but if you want to take it a step further, head to Frank & Oak on Cordova and check out their in-store juice bar by Krokodile Pear. A juice cleanse could help you reset and recharge. Chances are I’ll be the person in front of you at the counter.
photo by Krocodile Pear
UNTIE THOSE KNOTS
After a few weeks of shopping, dining, dancing and sleeping on couches during family visits, the social season is down to a dull roar and you can take stock. My back hurts, my shoulder has iphone to ear-itis and I could really use a few distraction free minutes. It’s the perfect time to finally give floating a try. Float House has been in the hood for a while and it promises a simple way to achieve profound relaxation, meditation & wellness. So, if you’re willing to spend ninety minutes inside an enclosed tub filled with 10″ of water and 800 lbs. of dissolved Epsom salts, it might be the first step to a brand new you.
TIE THEM BACK UP
If what you really need is a workout, head downstairs to Tantra Fitness on Water Street. The studio offers a mix of pole dance classes and aerial arts programs for beginners and experts alike.
CUT, COLOUR AND GET CLEAN SHAVEN
I hit the salon before the holidays, but now that January is here, I’m thinking big change for both colour and cut. If you’re thinking the same, hit one of Gastown’s barber shops (JD’s, FortKnight, 18th Amendment, Frank & Oak, Barber & Co, Gastown Grooming Room, Bryan of London) or hair stylists (Aveda, BRUSH Salon, Pony Salon, Colourbox, House of Blonde, Sugar Skull, Strands) for an overhaul.
photo by BRUSH Salon
ADD SOME EXTRAS
They say it’s all about the accessories. Amp things up for the new year with anything from eyelash extensions and acrylic nails at Queens Boutique or get inked. The Gastown Tattoo Parlour and Liquid Amber Tattoo can do your bidding or come up with something flash to suit your style.
STYLE IT
And when it’s all said and done, you might be too cool for your current wardrobe. It happens. Renovate your wardrobe or just add a few new staples from Gastown’s independent boutiques. Winter stuff is on sale now and spring lines are already rolling in.
photos by Stussy (left) and Neighbour / Woman (right)
