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New York Relaxation

By Sheree Bykofsky

Arriving in New York is exciting–but yes, it can seem overwhelming at first. That’s why we’ve ferreted out the most extraordinary, and sometimes unusual, ways for visitors, and residents too, to relax. To start with, you’ve heard of reflexology, but have you tried it? Nevermind whether there is or isn’t some connection between different parts of the feet and one’s body, there’s no better way to relax. It’s remarkable how a simple manipulation of the feet can melt one’s whole body into oblivion.

Stacey Robinson, Reiki master and reflexologist is one of many specialists at the Madison Wellness Center (171 Madison Ave bet 33^rd and 34^th Streets, Suite 9, 212-689-4648). Her luxurious treatment outshines the pleasant but unextraordinary space, on the ninth floor of an average midtown office building. Other practitioners include a masseur, an acupuncturist, a chiropractor, and an acupuncturist. The central room is a calming place in which to meditate, drink ginger and lemon tea, or do some inspirational reading.

Similarly conceived but even posher is the Olive Leaf Wholeness Center, at 145 East 23^rd Street (between Lexington and Third Avenues, 212-477-0405). The entrance is a magic portal to a Far Eastern oasis of serenity. Olive Leaf is devoted to “creating a synergistic partnership between healers and clients, who work together... in healing.” There are more than twenty experienced practitioners, who lead daily classes and carry out treatments ranging from massage to holistic medical care. Because the staff members in the various disciplines work as a team, they specialize in tailoring care to your unique needs. Even if you don’t have time for any activities, stress relief can be obtained simply by walking in, being enveloped in the soothing environment, and browsing in their lovely retail store.

Marc Sabin, Tai Chi (Taijiquan) instructor extraordinaire is on the staff of the Olive Leaf Wholeness Center, but he’s also is available for private instruction in your hotel room (212-677-0649). Doing tai chi is one of the best ways to foster a deep sense of relaxation. Its unique movement style leads to the development of dynamic relaxation and strength. Feelings of peace and harmony are intrinsic in the correct performance of tai chi, and guidance by a skilled private instructor is the best way to begin or to deepen one’s practice.

Another interesting whole body technique that can relieve stress is the Alexander technique, and Hope Martin is a master. If you’re tense from being hunched up over that laptop, this could be just what you need to relax (15 East 17^th Street) 212-243-3867). Make an appointment a couple days in advance to learn about this movement re-education technique, and she’ll arrive at your door to help you change your movement habits to minimize stress and tension, and to increase flexibility and balance.

Exercise, of course, is a great tension-reliever, too, and there’s no reason to sway from an established routine just because one is traveling? Evelyn Nunlee (212 932-9899) is a personal trainer to many celebrities and wealthy Manhattanites, and she teaches dance. She’ll visit you in your home, hotel room or gym – with equipment like resistance bands in tow, if needed – to help you meet your goals.  After that workout – or a long morning of shopping on Madison Avenue – your muscles might need some Rx. Well, Broadway stars, dancers, and other celebrity folk agree: one of the best ways to detox and destress in the Big Apple is to indulge in a session in one of Blue Light’s Floatation’s luxurious tanks (148 West 23^rd Street bet 6^th and 7^th Avenues, 989-6061, Mon-Sat 10am-8pm. Call for appt. one day in advance). After floating effortlessly in a tank of ozone-purified water for a full hour, both your mind and body will feel absolutely weightless and relaxed. Make sure to allow two hours for the short orientation, one-hour float, and the soothing herbal tea that’s served afterward before you head back out into the busy city.

Now that you’re no longer stressed, what about Fifi? She’s been sitting under your seat during the entire trip to New York? She might enjoy a visit from Lynn the Dogseuse (917-734-1949), who will arrive at your hotel, soothing music and doggy pillow in hand, to give your dog a gentle massage. Or if she’s in need of some one-one-one therapy after that tiring trip, call Joanna Beth Seere (212-595-4336), telepathic communicator and spiritual healer for animals, who can ease them after a long trip, help them acclimate to new surroundings, and massage them back to comfort. 

Still not ready to hit the streets? Don’t! You can leave your troubles (and Fifi) on the ground as your soar above Manhattan’s breathtaking skyline on a private helicopter ride. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience (Liberty Helicopter Tours, Downtown Heliport, Pier 6, East River, NYC, 212-967-6464, Mon-Fri 9am-6:30pm: or, VIP Heliport, W. 30^th St. and 12^th Avenue, 212-967-6464, 365 days/year).

Such luxurious extravaganzas are not for everybody. If you’re a little more down-to-earth – literally – why not return to your childhood, get covered with paint, and find out how just therapeutic painting pottery can be? Here are two great places where you can bring a bottle of wine, relax, and dabble in all the colors of the rainbow. Little Shop of Plaster & Pottery, 431 East 73^rd Street bet. 1^st and York, 212-717-6636. Our Name is Mud, 59 Greenwich Avenue 212-647-7899.

Perhaps you’re seeking serenity before that important presentation tomorrow. Maybe you’re afraid to return to that dreadful airport. Possibly you’re fearful of plastic or other surgery. Try hypnosis: not only will it relax you, it may promote healing. World renowned psychotherapist and hypnotist Dr. Roberta Temes will give you a completely individualized hypnosis session in the comfort of your hotel suite (718 646 5537). Or you might prefer getting a headstart on the hypnotic process from home. Click on www.hypnosisbyphone.com

It’s true: sometimes the friendly skies certainly don’t feel so friendly. If you’re suddenly struck with anxiety before you’re about to step back on the plane – whether it’s a few days before your flight or if you’re right at the airport – there’s immediate help. Airline captain and licensed therapist Tom Bunn (877-FEAR-FLY), the leading authority on aeroanxiety, can visit you in your hotel room or work with you over the phone to conquer your fear for a stress-free flight. 

And I bet you thought New York was a stressful place!

New York Luxuries

You’re in New York: why not live a little? We’ve got all the amenities to make your stay – whether it’s a few days or a few years! – more luxurious than you could even imagine. 

Is your Gucci bag in need of a makeover after that bumpy plane ride? We know just the place. John Gerardo’s Custom Luggage Repairing – frequented by celebrities like Jackie Collins, Chuck Mangione, and Bill Cosby – specializes in repairing luggage and accessories by Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Fendi, Valentino, Saks, Bloomingdales, and more (Gerardo’s Luggage Inc., 30 West 31^st Street between 5^th Avenue and Broadway, 212-695-6955). This 102 year old business also sells fine luggage, accepts damage claim forms from all major airlines, and can even refurbish old luggage to make it look like new.  Don’t let that travel to-do list cramp your New York style! Call Cross It Off Your List, a deluxe organizing  and concierge service (212-725-0122). They’ll do everything from shopping to helping you pack your bags, from waiting in line for you to shipping your treasures home. Linda Rothschild, Chief Executive Organizer, can literally do anything you need – or she can find someone who’ll do it for you.

But who’ll take on the special task of caring for your pet? Call Sal Campo at Aerobic Dog Walk (212 570 WALK) if you're too busy to take Zelda out for a stroll. Sal will send one of his nearly dozen highly trained, bonded walkers to exercise or feed your precious pooch. Sal's is one of the largest, most trusted dog-walking firms in the city, and they cover most of Manhattan, including all of the hotels. He’ll escort your pet to the dog run, set up doggy play dates, and is happy to handle groups. They also will send someone to pet or feed your Maltese cat.

Now that you’re free to roam, want to be whisked around the city on a private, custom-created tour? Call Discover New York with Kitt Garrett for a behind-the-scenes tour of the Waldorf Astoria, art or theatre tours, culinary tours, or invent your own. Kitt Garrett also organizes specialty lectures on virtually any topic. Or try Patricia Olmstead (718-721-5254) if your tastes lean toward multiethnic, gay/lesbian, or holiday tours. 

Mixing business and pleasure? Find out what lies in your business’s future. Astrologist Susan Miller, a monthly columnist for SELF magazine, can predict just that. Specializing in astrological business consulting and strategizing based on the first trade of your company’s stock, she’ll meet you at a location convenient to you and will perform the most remarkable two-hour reading (917 833 2480). She can also help you improve your business, plan your career, or even give your love life a boost. Speaking of romance, if you’re looking for that perfect mate, your best chances of finding that person are Fay Goldman at Meaningful Connections (575 Madison Avenue, Suite 1006, between 56th and 57th Street, 212-877-5151). This private, highly-personalized service caters to very discriminating clients with busy schedules. She’ll meet with you at the place of your choice: after you tell her what you’re seeking in a mate, she’ll find the perfect person – and the rest is up to you.

If Fay set you up, be sure to look your best before meeting Mr. or Ms. Right!  Dory Azoulay, has class – and scissors – and will travel. This beloved hairstylist of many of Manhattan’s most discriminating clients, will come to your home or hotel room and perform miracles on your mane. He’s available for special events and is even happy to do full-fledged hair makeovers.  (917-519-5214)

Looking to show off that new ‘do? If you’re visiting New York alone, you might like Social Circles (registered trademark, please)  to plan your social calendar for you. Groups of like-minded, professional New Yorkers, ages twenty-something and up, gather for fun, quirky activities several nights a week. If you’re a resident of the Big Apple, you’ll join on a yearly basis. Call Lynn to set your social schedule on fire! (505-9985 x25)

And if you were out late – again – lounge in bed a little late and wake up to breakfast in bed by Chez le Chef, delivered right to your hotel (127 Lexington Avenue, between 28^th and 29^th Streets, 212-685-1888). Just call one day ahead, and a basket filled with the Chef’s creations – complete with a red rose –  will magically appear the next morning.

Sheree Bykofsky is a prominent New York literary agent, travel writer, and the author of 16 books, including The 52 Most Romantic Dates In and Around New York City (Adams).

Sheree also teaches publishing at NYU, the Learning Annex, and the 92^nd Street Y.

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