Where to Relieve Stress at VIDA Fitness
By Danielle Michels
VIDA Fitness Blogger
Stress release.
This term is thrown around a lot when describing the benefits of exercise, and not because it’s a trendy phrase to throw around, it’s actually true, but that’s not what we’re talking about today.
I’ve always joked that I work out because therapy is too expensive, but in all seriousness it’s true. However a spin class, treadmill or weight bench isn’t the only place you can find stress release at VIDA, there are plenty of other stress release outlets just around the corner.
The Zen Spa
It’s hard to put in to words the benefits I’ve received from the Zen Spa.
Muscle relaxation from the steam room? Check. Breaking a good sweat in the sauna on my rest day from working out? Yes. Aiding my seasonal effective disorder with the infrared sauna? Please, and thank you.
Although you may not have 10 or 15 minutes to spare for hanging out in a sauna or steam room everyday, taking the time to indulge on days you’re not working or don’t have somewhere to be right away is amazing.
Due to the temperature or steamy environment of the room it’s an excellent place to unplug from your phone, close your eyes and do absolutely nothing while providing your body with some great detoxifying benefits.
At our U Street, Renaissance, and Metropole locations we have an Aura Spa with a full menu of services including various types of massage, facials and body wraps to name a few.
While services aren’t included in membership, there are times we all need to treat ourselves whether we have a concrete reason or not. Plus, a gift card makes for a good suggestion when someone asks you what you want for your birthday.
Yoga Classes
The best thing about yoga is it’s acceptable for everyone. Regardless of age, gender, flexibility level, you name what you think your hang up might be and we promise it’s not valid, really.
The very core of what yoga is and what it means is a self-awareness of your own body’s capabilities and how your physicality is tied to your mentality as well as not comparing your own experience with yoga to some one else’s.
You’ll always hear yoga instructors thank the students of the class for sharing a part of your day with them and allowing them to lead you in your practice. That’s because yoga is totally on your own terms: you go as far as you want to go in a pose and focus on each breath you take and listen to your own body’s limitations.
Becoming self-aware and seeing how much your body is capable of progress through continued practice is an awesome way to relieve stress, and feel more self-confident!
With summer approaching everyone’s anxious to break out the swimsuits and get their tan on.
With a full bar and food menu, The Penthouse is a great place to gather with friends and socialize, or even just hang out by yourself with a good read and a drink. Taking the time to soak in some Vitamin D, swim a few leisurely laps and relax is great way to unwind after a workout or on an off day.
Stay tuned for upcoming events and news during the pool season, and with our Navy Yards location opening this year we’re betting there’s a lounge chair calling your name.