Dear EscapeMakers -- It's the beginning of a new year, a new decade, and a refreshed you. Take a step back and prioritize self-care. Physical, emotional, spiritual, and intellectual wellness are all emphasized and practiced in Ithaca - home to 150 relaxing waterfalls, four state parks, multiple spas, yoga studios, and wellness facilities, Recently named the United States' #18th most fitness-friendly place for 2020, Ithaca is your winter wellness getaway. Self-care opportunities abound!

Enjoy outdoor recreation with a stroll through the winding trail that leads to a frozen giant, Taughannock Falls. This 1.5-mile round-trip walk allows for a flat, mid-day stroll amongst the enchanted wilderness. Stop at the overlook at Taughannock to witness the vast canyon with the 215-foot falls as a backdrop. Visit multiple falls and gorges minutes from downtown Ithaca. Ithaca Falls and Buttermilk Falls provide quick jaw-dropping experiences for anyone searching for nature's reset button.

Even the accommodations, inns and B&Bs in Ithaca focus on proving well-rounded wellness experiences. Try out
La Tourelle, a family-owned hotel, bistro and spa with French Chateau-style architecture. Their August Moon Spa provides massage, facials, reiki, and even a waterfall service (pictured left). August Moon goes a step beyond wellness and ensures many of their products are derived from the herbs grown in their garden.

Or visit the Inn at Gothic Eves, a B&B that looks like it belongs in a fairytale. Soak in an outdoor jacuzzi, get warm around the fire pit, or experience the Spa at Gothic Eves. From classic massages, energy/crystal therapy, and guided empowerment journeys, this spa offers the perfect experience focused on your spiritual wellness. We can't forget about Ithaca's Rasa Spa, the spa with the largest selection of services; massage and body work, skincare, meditation, yoga classes and therapuetic body treatments focusing on prenatal, athletic massage, self-love, and even a warm-up package specifically designed for the wintertime!

Self-care starts from the inside out. We've all heard the saying "you are what you eat." One of Ithaca's missions is to provide wholesome food to its community. Through farm to table ventures many businesses like Bramble Community Herbalism shine. As a shop and tea bar, located in Press Bay Alley, it provides locally, ethically, and fair-traded bulk herbs, spices, consultations, classes, and a library of knowledge.

One of the most unique local hidden gems is the Namgyal Monastery Institute of Buddhist Studies - a religious destination accepting of all people. Hundreds travel across the world to study at this site across the street from La Tourelle. The monastery hosts classes, retreats and meditations open to visitors or students of any faith. Many don't know that the monastery is the official North American Seat of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

To address your physical wellness, pop into a yoga class at one of the many yoga studios in Ithaca. Mighty Yoga, a studio located on the Commons, provides a quick release from the hustle and bustle of downtown. Try out BlackBird Yoga, a heated yoga studio that is sure to sweat and work the toxins out of you.

In Ithaca, wellness is all around, from the food they eat, to the parks they care for and the services they provide. Stay up to date on evenst at Ithaca is Gorges and Ithaca Farm to Fork! Learn more about their wellness and winter offerings at: