2013 is upon us, and what I’ve learned is the following: the apocalypse didn’t happen so I’ve got to keep finding ways to improve my life, my health, and the way I look at the world. Here are my top 5 ways for NYC girls to reinvent themselves.
Photo: Kate Albarelli by Adrian Buckmaster
1. Start easy, get a new do. New haircuts are pretty normal resolutions, but if you’ve never tried a cut with the almost-fresh-off-the-boat-from-Milan Federico, you’re missing out. He just opened his second location in the Benjamin Hotel in midtown, offering both ladies and gents alike light-as-air locks that are sure to set 2013 off on the right foot. I recently walked out of his salon with a head of hair so buoyant, it floated my own mental boat. For more info: Federico Salon in The Benjamin Hotel
2. Learn a new language. One thing I love about most NYC girls is their passion for cultures beyond their own. It’s like we’re all eating at new and unusual restaurants in between our far out vacations just to try to soak in a little extra-curricular culture. If you’ve got a little extra time and brain power, try Rosetta Stone’s online program. Prepare for your next Paris trip with French, or get a little more exotic by trying Urdu. Personally, I’m starting the Hebrew plan since I intend to be able to communicate with my husband beyond “let’s eat” by the end of 2013.
3. Take it easy, freshen up. Since the city is a crazy, hectic rat race I love taking a little time to slow down and enjoy a hot minute of life. Nothing beats a few hours at a spa, and you can easily inhale the eucalyptus steam at the Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa for 30 minutes on your way to a calmer, happier life via a facial or massage. Aside from a fab treatment, you’re steam will help clear and heal crummy winter sinus issues (nevermind crummy post-holiday mental issues).
4. The best fitness class your ass has seen in ages, seriously. Everyone and their mother (wait, I fall into the “everyone” and the “mother” category?) is looking to drop a few pounds now. Statistically speaking, fitness and weight loss resolutions top the list for those who choose to go as far as making resolutions. If everyone tried a Figure 4 class at Pure Yoga, they’d likely keep their fitness resolutions all year long- the results are almost immediate. Created by professional ballet dancer Kate Albarelli, Figure 4 combines elements of classic dance training, yoga, and free weights. Simply put: it will kick your ass from here to tomorrow, and you’ll wake up with a noticeably tighter, more toned (if not sore) body the following morning. PS- I lost 2 pounds immediately following my first class.
5. Cut back on the meat a little. Studies show that human bodies don’t need to eat animal protein every day, and topping all your salads with a hearty portion of chicken breast doesn’t do much for your figure, heart, or wallet. Try committing to one totally vegetarian day per week. If you load up on mostly vegetables (I’m totally in love with Soom Soom in midtown or UWS for lunch), you’ll save calories, cash, and cholesterol.
