Take Care This Holiday Season

As December rolls in, the Holiday Season is in full swing! Between shopping and gatherings we often throw our routines out the window and forget to take care of our own needs.  To help you out this season, we put together a locals guide to Holiday Self-Care to ensure that whether you are visiting the Railway City this season or call it home, you will find something to bring some balance to the festivities over the coming weeks.

While you are exploring the shops, stop in to a local coffee shop to warm up and refuel.  If you are in a hurry take it to go, but if you have the time to enjoy an uninterrupted cup give yourself that gift! Try a locally roasted Las Chicas brew at Streamliners or wander to Why Not Cookies in the West End. 

St. Thomas is full of great places to grab a treat for yourself or someone else.  If you need to streamline your holiday party planning you can order sweets from many spots to bring a #tasteofstthomas home with you. Many stops are worth the drive to St. Thomas all on their own with treats like Ice Cream filled Donuts, International Award Winning Chocolates, unique sweets , and so many more!

Take a wander around town and check out all the lights! Drive into Pinafore Park and see what volunteers have done to Light the Night this holiday season or wander around your favourite neighbourhood. Pick up a walking tour map at the Railway City Tourism Office for some historic routes to get your started!

Take out takes on a whole new meaning when you can stop at Salt & Pepper Meals to pick up weeknight dinners for the family.  You can make sure everyone is getting FED (Fresh. Easy. Delicious) and make the most out of your time this extra busy season.

There is something about a cup of tea that just makes you want to slow down.  Pick up some new loose leaf or herbal blends by visiting infuZed tZ at Elgin Centre or take the drive out to Wildflowers Farm to pick up a blend that's right for you and take that moment to slow down and reflect on how well you are doing on your shopping list.

The Peaceful Path

Drop in for a Yoga class at one of the studios around town and re-balance the hustle and bustle. Each studio offers something a little different and many have special series or events happening throughout the season.  Find the one that's right for you by visiting our Spas & Wellness page. 

Fill your home with the scents of the season and find the essentials that help to create a sense of calm amidst the business. Take a workshop and learn how to use oils for yourself or make some of your holiday gifts this year! If calm is what you need most go visit Steed and Company Lavender and stock up for all your relaxation needs.

Sometimes when the weather outside is frightful, and the fire is so delightful you just want to curl up with a book. Check one out at the St. Thomas Public Library, browse Coles at Elgin Centre, or peruse the used books at Books and Beats on Ross St.

Whatever the Christmas Season has in store for you, be sure to take the time to enjoy it. If you need some help relaxing our Spas and Wellness page might have some suggestions for you. Get a massage. Have someone help get you Holiday Party ready. Get your nails done. Amidst all the thoughtful gift shopping and holiday preparations, don't forget to give yourself the gift of self-care the Railway City way!