In the midst of an especially stressful season, it seems more important than ever to take care of ourselves the best we can. Whether that means powering down phones and turning off the news, escaping to a nearby spa/sauna or cozying up spaces at home, we want to help each of you look out for your physical and mental health during this time.
ROYAL TREATMENT
In another pandemic “first,” I enjoyed a pampering visit to a spa for the first time this year. After doing careful research on COVID-appropriate precautions being taken by the luxurious new LOTTE HOTEL SEATTLE, I headed downtown for a brief, dreamy getaway at Le SPA de l’hôtel LOTTE.
I felt safe from the moment I entered the property, located directly across from the Columbia Tower Club. After I had my temperature taken by a digital thermometer in the downstairs lobby, I rode the elevator to the sleek, minimalist spa. Here I learned that appointments had been staggered and I had the locker room and tranquil, white-accented waiting area all to myself. Everyone I encountered throughout my stay was wearing a mask, not to mention exuding a welcomed air of calm.
The venue offers a variety of upscale treatments, from body wraps and facials featuring products from the exclusive French line Biologique Recherche to cupping sessions and foot scrubs. I was lucky enough to choose — from the extensive massage menu— a divine, 80-minute hot stone experience with a healing aromatherapy add-on.
While wearing a mask on the table felt slightly odd during the first few minutes, I quickly forgot I even had one on, as my masseuse’s magical hands transported me to a faraway land of rest and rejuvenation. Afterward, I spent a few minutes alone in the sauna wondering if they’d let me stay for the rest of the day. I left feeling more at ease, both physically and mentally, than I have since early March.
HOME REMEDIES
When it comes to budget-friendly options, we also recommend cozying up your space at home. Now that we’re all spending more time than we ever imagined at our own residences, we’ve been relying on favorite finds like our Philips sun lamp (a staple for every Seattle winter), this Pure NanoSteamer, locally-made Capitol Hill Candle Company goodies and the softest blanket from Sunday Citizen. These ultra-cozy, cuddly throws come in a variety of colors and designs — and we personally think pair perfectly with a mug of Broadcast Coffee or a glass of Washington State Wine.
Ordering from Succulents Box is a low-cost way to brighten up your home this season, too; the company delivers low-maintenance, organically-grown succulents directly to your door. Choose between five monthly subscription plans that feature 300-plus gorgeous varieties from Southern California.
Add even more color to your life — while supporting local growers and florists — by stocking up on bouquets from Pike Place vendors, local farmers markets and neighborhood shops like Fremont’s Juniper Flowers.
Self-care this month also means getting out to VOTE—and perhaps celebrating afterward with Gourmondo Co’s latest offering — The Ballot Box lunch, available now through Election Day. A portion of the proceeds from every box will be donated to the League of Women Voters, in support of their efforts to fight for everyone’s right and access to voting. Hang in there everybody!
