by Sharael Feist
January, 1999
While the holidays bring joy and merriment from the special treasures left under the tree, festive gatherings and spending time with family, they also leave people stressed out due to dwindling checking accounts, fighting frantic shoppers, and spending time with, family.
After the holidays, it’s important to take time to relieve stress and revitalize your soul. The Marina offers plenty of relaxing activities to rejuvenate yourself, from roller blading down the Marina Green, to getting a massage a ta spa, or just having a cocktail with friends. There are numerous ways to unwind and let the stress from the-holidays vanish as quickly as Old Saint Nick up a chimney.
Some relaxing activities on Chestnut Street might include indulging in a high-caIorie, sweettooth-pleasing treat at Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream shop or Mrs. Fields cookies. What they are serving up is sure to turn your frown upside down.
If your nose knows what it takes to make you relax, stop by the Body Shop or Bare Essentials for some aromatherapy products. They have just what you need for a luxurious bath. Also, be sure to stop by the Wherehouse to pick up a mellow CD to melt your worries away.
If shooting the breeze with your friends is the way you relax, check out the Horseshoe Tavern’s pool table, Left at Albuquerque margaritas, or grab a beer at one of the many bars and pubs along Chestnut or Union Streets. Another, more soothing alternative, might be to sip on a piping hot cup of tea at the Grove (accompanied by a scrumptious lemon bar of course).
Who needs a dose of reality? Why not get lost in a good movie for a couple hours instead! There are two theaters on Chestnut – the Presidio Theater and Cinema 21 – which offer a variety of movies that are sure to engulf you.
An interesting little shop called Asian Point of View offers an oriental approach to relaxation. They have bubbling fountains that are sure to calm the nerves, and a rock garden, known for its meditative effect.
For some people, nothing relieves their tension more than puffing on a stinky cigar, and if that’s you, then stop by the Humidor on Chestnut or Gourmet Cigars on Union. They both have a wide range of cigars sure to please the aficionado.
Sometimes it’s nice to just snuggle up with a good book. Books Inc. on Chestnut or Solar Light Books on Union have many titles from which to choose.
Have a picnic near Chrissy Fields and take in the scene of the breathtaking Golden Gate Bridge, and the windsurfers and sailors that sail underneath it.
A good sweat is a great way to release built up tension. Try a kickboxing class at Gorilla Sports, rent a bike at Marina Cyclery, and ride along the Manna Green, or try taking a yoga class at 24 Hour Fitness.
Of course if you want to be really lavish, go for a massage at Novella on Union or the Heaven Day Spa on Chestnut.
So, treat yourself to a little R and R to recover from the holidays by reading a good book, working up a sweat, or diving into a bubble bath. There is something relaxing for everyone in the Marina.