6 Tacoma-centric Ideas for a Healthier You in 2021

Take a Walk in the Park (or bay, or bridge, or vista)

Despite its urban appeal, Tacoma has no shortage of scenic spots to walk, run, or even hike. Point Defiance may be known for its zoo and aquarium, but you’ll find it easy to socially distance on the wooded trails that weave through Five Mile Drive. There’s truly something for everyone here--not up for a hike? Head down to Owen Beach and see if you can skip a stone all the way to Vashon. Dune Peninsula, a former superfund site-turned-gorgeous-park, is all sky and Sound, with paved, accessible walkways and plenty of open space for small gatherings.

Online Yoga

Sometimes we need the company of others to motivate ourselves. With gyms closed and in-person classes often a high risk, local studios Expand Yoga and Source Yoga are offering online sessions, fostering a sense of community with necessary practicality. For those looking for a more personally-tailored experience, Expand is even offering the option of private, 1-on-1 yoga instruction (both hot and non-hot).

Expand Yoga Online Classes: www.expandyoga.com/streaming-classes

Source Yoga Online Classes: sourceyogaonline.com/classes/

Juice Up!

The resolution to eat better doesn’t have to be a lonely one, and though we can’t properly “gather,” Gather Juice Co. has the supplies--and the treats--to fuel you post-workout, post-meditation, post-walk, post-dentist appointment...Check out their spot on 6th Ave for walkup ordering (or order ahead, online!). From customizable smoothie bowls to hearty chipotle avocado toasts, locally-made kombucha and Hu chocolate bars, there is truly something for everyone and every mood. The folks at Gather are ready to help you plan a juice cleanse or pick up some bulk spices; best of all, many of their ingredients and products are locally-sourced and support small-batch makers of Tacoma.

Another local favorite is downtown Tacoma's Happy Belly. They offer smoothies, fresh juice,
and a globally-inspired menu in Downtown Tacoma. We especially love their Daybreak green juice and the Nona salad.

Gather: https://gatherjuiceco.square.site/

Happy Belly: https://www.happybellytacoma.com/

Watch the Sunrise

The monotony of the pandemic is undeniable, and it can feel challenging to shake out the wintertime, stay-at-home slump. If we can’t go long-distance for a change of pace, what about embracing a different time of day? Set an early alarm and go watch the sun come up, in all its beautiful, reliable glory.

Climb Tacoma Hills

For those looking for a physical challenge, there’s no need to pine over CrossFit--multiple Tacoma neighborhoods feature steep inclines that give you views and an endorphin rush all at once. N. 29th, 30th, and Carr streets in Old Town, as well as the main streets of Downtown Tacoma, will leave your calves burning and your heart pumping (and your appetite ready to head to Gather Juice Co.!). For a more traditional workout scene, head to the stairs at Stadium Bowl, or the bleachers and track at the University of Puget Sound.

Pause and Reflect

Health and wellness doesn’t only refer to physical fitness; especially during the stress of the pandemic, our psychic fitness needs to be maintained, as well. Consider a gentle walk and reflection at one of many beautiful, local parks, and take the time you need to maintain connection with yourself and those in the community. Take a moment to reflect, and to learn some vital local history, at the Chinese Reconciliation Park. After Tacoma’s Chinese population was forced out of their homes in 1885, it took over 100 years for a proper apology and landmark establishment; now, any and all visitors to the Old Town waterfront can learn about this vital corner of Tacoma history. Despite the heaviness of the park’s establishment, it’s also just a beautiful place to spend some time by the water, and is open to all, every day.

And consider strolling through Wright Park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (who also designed Central Park). With over 450 labeled species of trees within its 27 acres, it’s an ideal place to humble oneself in nature’s presence. The conservatory’s plant collection contains over 250 individual species from around the world; check back in on January 4 to see new COVID-compliant hours.