There’s been less talk about and focus on “self-care” since everyone emerged back into the busy world post-pandemic. But it’s worth considering that self-care is even more important now, as people need to look and feel their best to do their best in a demanding work, home and play environment.
Whether it’s keeping muscles and joints flexible with the many types of yoga available, taking good care of skin (the body’s biggest organ) or just feeling more upbeat because hair and nails look good, the physical and psychological benefits are legion.
The East Bay has it all, from super-glam to low-key, homey spaces. Berkeley’s Today’s Rave, for example, is a small, woman-owned hair salon that earns customers’ kudos for the skill and professional expertise of the folks who cut and color hair there.
Of the many and diverse yoga studios, El Cerrito’s Soma Yoga & Wellness offers several types of “flow” yoga, alongside more challenging vinyasa, as well as yin, with longer posture holds and restorative benefits. Many yoga enthusiasts enjoy a combination of styles. Soma’s goal is offering classes based on principles of yoga, Ayurveda and somatics, which emphasizes body awareness, releases tension and fosters a sense of safety and well-being.
It was difficult to maintain regular dental visits during Covid. Yet taking good care of teeth is another vital way of maintaining long-term health. It’s important to find a dentist whose care and advice inspire trust and confidence, and whose staff is welcoming. Fortunately, the East Bay is home to many such providers, including those voted on in this year’s “Best Ofs.”
Getting back into the world has meant more freedom, of course, but also more stress. Now may be the time to work on the inner self with help from the right therapist. Working through problems is never out of style.
Today’s Rave, open Tue-Sat by appointment. 1787 Solano Ave., Berkeley. 510.524.0991.
Soma Yoga & Wellness, open daily. 9951 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 510.240.9059. somayogawellness.com.
Read this year’s readers’ picks for the Best of Beauty, Health & Wellness here.
