Do you ever get stressed out just hearing the phrase "the holidays"? Me too. 

It's a wonderful time of year when everyone is super cheery and friendly and everything is beautiful and there are so many parties and social events and I love it — and it's completely exhausting and stressful. You need to make sure to buy presents for everyone, make a dish for some party or event, and you're constantly heading this way or that. 

So, even though it may feel naughty at a time when we're expected to up our generosity and selflessness, make sure to make time during the holiday season to focus on you. 

Focus on wellness in Saranac Lake

Saranac Lake is an excellent place to focus on wellness. It has a long history of being a place people came to seek out healing. The tiny village became a mecca in the late 1800s and early 1900s for people trying to cure themselves of tuberculosis.  

Ever since, people have flocked to the Saranac Lake area to enjoy fresh air and find ways to renew themselves both physically and spiritually. 

Massage away the stress

I don't know about you, but for me, there's pretty much nothing that de-stresses me quicker than a good massage. Close your eyes and focus on the sensations, and let your to-do list and itineraries slip away. 

Adirondack Massage Therapy is a great choice in Saranac Lake. In the summer, Dan will even give you a massage on a boat cruise. This time of year, he's happy to provide indoor massages, though! 

Find your center with yoga 

Some look for more active ways to de-stress. If that's you, you're in luck, because Saranac Lake has a variety of yoga studios with full class schedules, and most welcome drop-ins.

Inner Quest Yoga & Wellness, shown above, features a wide variety of options including yoga, meditation and stretch classes, yoga therapy, workshops, retreats, sound healing, reiki, and massage. 

Earthshine Yoga Studio also has a robust schedule that features a variety of different yoga styles, plus acupuncture, reiki, and other special offerings. 

Get outside 

Sometimes the best therapy is to just get outside, enjoy the quiet, and blow off some steam. Saranac Lake is the perfect place to do that! From skiing to skating to winter cycling, or just a walk in the woods, we have everything you need. 

Other wellness options

There are a variety of other wellness options to consider in Saranac Lake. The Adirondack Wellness Network is a great way to get in touch with all the different offerings available here. 

And once you get through the holidays and the winter, don't forget to check back for summer wellness opportunities. Yoga on docks and SUPs, massages on boats, and wandering in the green woods — you'll lose every ounce of stress you ever had!

Book a wellness getaway 

If you want to create a full getaway that focuses on wellness activities, check out the Lake Clear Lodge and Retreat. They can help you create a weekend of self-care that will make you feel like a whole new person!