How to have the best “me day” ever
I learned a lot about stress in 2017. Even though I didn’t
experience as much stress last year as I had in years past, I learned a lot
about how it affects my body and mind, and how to deal with it.
I realized that what helps me de-stress the most is
scheduling “me time.” Taking it often, and without shame or judgement (mainly
from myself), has been key in keeping my stress levels – and its affects – down
in 2017. And I plan to continue this trend in 2018.
“Me time” can come in many forms, from a simple walk outside
to an extravagant spa treatment. Because I’m a foodie, visiting a new coffee
shop or restaurant solo definitely counts as “me time” in my book. Recently, I took
a day off work and combined my love of food and pampering in the ultimate “me
day:” A luxurious hair appointment at White Salon and Spa followed by a sweet little happy hour at TAP Gastropub.
After a productive morning and catching up with a friend
over lunch, I arrived for my cut and color at White Salon and Spa in Buckhead. Its aesthetic is beautiful: Clean,
simple, inviting. You’re greeted with a beverage (hello, afternoon wine!) and
ushered to your stylist’s workstation.
(c) Kelly Embry |
I saw Roberto, who gave my hair an amazing and much needed
update. He listened to me, made suggestions when I wasn’t sure what I wanted,
and was really friendly throughout the appointment. His balayage technique was
outstanding, and I was thrilled with the results. I’d highly recommend him, but
all stylists at White Salon and Spa are knowledgeable and professional, and
they offer a wide variety of services that extend beyond cut and color.
(c) Carlos Maldonado |
Feeling good about my shiny new ‘do, I headed to midtown to
grab a drink and a bite at TAP: A Gastropub. This place has three of my favorite things: A lovely outdoor
patio, great beer selection, and fantastic food.
TAP is located in the heart of the city and surrounded by
skyscrapers, so enjoying a pint on its patio transports you to a true urban
oasis. Happy hour is where this restaurant shines: Chef Gary Thorne has
mastered the art of shareable plates,
and the extensive beer and cocktail lists are guaranteed to please a crowd.
TAP's all day menu |
I tried some of TAP’s new additions to the menu, and I
really appreciate the chef’s creative take on comfort dishes in the most unexpected
ways. The outcome is pleasantly surprising.
Some of the new additions to the shareable plates portion of the menu |
For example: You can never go wrong with a soft pretzel as a
shareable appetizer, but the addition of the beer cheese dip made with Scofflaw
Basement IPA is absolutely genius. Or take TAP’s calamari – every other restaurant
in Atlanta has one, but this dish is saturated in buffalo sauce and served with
blue cheese aioli and celery curls.
Soft pretzel with Scofflaw beer cheese |
Buffalo calamari with blue cheese aioli and celery curls |
The plant-based appetizers were probably my favorites: Crispy
sriracha cauliflower, Brussels sprouts with Calabrian chili honey, and Cajun boiled
peanuts. All three have a touch of sweetness and spice to them, and you at
least feel healthy when eating them
instead of, say, fries.
Crispy sriracha cauliflower |
Brussels sprouts with Calabrian chili honey and champagne vinegar |
Cajun boiled peanuts |
I wrapped up my day with a cold brew from one of TAP’s taps
and felt grateful for allowing myself to indulge in some of my favorite
activities. Check out my insta-stories highlights for more details about both
White Salon and Spa and TAP.
What's your favorite way to take some "me time?"