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.
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| (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.
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| (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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| Soft pretzel with Scofflaw beer cheese |
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| 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.
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| Crispy sriracha cauliflower |
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| Brussels sprouts with Calabrian chili honey and champagne vinegar |
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| 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?"