URBN Playground Partners with Luxury Auto Detailer Head to Toe in NYC!

URBN Playground is proud to partner with Head to Toe Detailing: Precision Detailing for The Busy Professional and The Car Enthusiast!

Exclusively for URBN Playground residents, first time customers can enjoy 35% off their first Mobile Luxury Carwash & Auto Detailing service. For details on how to redeem, go to "Promotions" in the URBN Playground app.

Download the URBN Virtual Concierge App 

• IOS/iPhone: Click Here for iPhone users

• Google/ Android: Click Here for Android Users

Whether you're navigating the fast-paced streets of New York or showcasing a prized vehicle, Head to Toe's tailored services ensure your vehicles shine brilliantly in every setting.

Their specialized treatments take on NYC's unique elements, offering defense against urban pollution, seasonal weather, and daily wear.

A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Traditional Irish Soda Bread

Here's a simple and delicious St. Patrick's Day recipe for you:

Irish Soda Bread

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• 1 1/2 cups buttermilk

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, salt, and sugar.

3. Gradually add the buttermilk, mixing with a wooden spoon until a rough dough forms.

4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead briefly.

5. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet.

6. Cut a deep "X" into the top of the loaf using a sharp knife.

7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

8. Serve warm with butter or jam.

Enjoy your Irish Soda Bread with a nice cup of tea or a cold pint of Irish beer. Sláinte!

What is the history of Irish Soda Bread?

Irish soda bread is a type of quick bread that originated in Ireland in the 19th century. At the time, traditional yeast-based breads were difficult and time-consuming to make, so bakers began using baking soda as a leavening agent instead. This resulted in a dense, hearty bread that could be made quickly and easily.

The key ingredients in traditional Irish soda bread are flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk. These ingredients were readily available to most Irish households and required no special equipment or skills to make. The bread became a staple in Irish homes and was often eaten with meals or as a snack.

The simple recipe and quick preparation time made Irish soda bread an ideal choice for Irish immigrants who brought the bread with them when they emigrated to the United States and other countries in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, Irish soda bread is still popular and widely enjoyed, especially on St. Patrick's Day.

While the traditional recipe for Irish soda bread has remained largely unchanged, there are now many variations of the bread, including variations made with raisins or caraway seeds. Regardless of the variation, Irish soda bread remains a beloved part of Irish cuisine and culture.

From all of us at URBN Playground, Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Spring into a Cleaner Home: Expert Tips for a Thorough Spring Cleaning

Spring is a time for renewal and fresh starts, and what better way to embrace the season than by giving your home a thorough cleaning?

With National Cleaning Week coming up soon, here are some tips to help you tackle your spring cleaning with ease:

Make a plan

Before you start, make a list of all the areas you want to clean and prioritize them based on their level of importance. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you don't miss any crucial spots.

Start with decluttering

Decluttering is a crucial step in the spring cleaning process. Go through each room in your home and get rid of any items you no longer need or use. This will make cleaning easier and create more space in your home.

Tackle one room at a time

Don't try to clean your entire home all at once. Instead, focus on one room at a time and give it your full attention. This will prevent burnout and ensure that you do a thorough job in each room.

Use natural cleaners

Many commercial cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to your health and the environment. Opt for natural cleaners, such as vinegar and baking soda, to clean your home safely and effectively.

RECIPE: Non-Toxic Cleaning Solution

Here's a simple and effective recipe for a non-toxic general cleaning solution:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup white vinegar

• 1/4 cup baking soda

• 1 teaspoon castile soap

• 10 drops of essential oil (optional, for fragrance)

• 2 quarts warm water

Instructions:

1. In a large spray bottle, mix together the vinegar, baking soda, castile soap, and essential oil (if using).

2. Fill the rest of the bottle with warm water, leaving some room at the top to allow for shaking.

3. Shake well to mix the ingredients.

4. Spray the solution on surfaces you want to clean and wipe with a clean cloth.

This cleaning solution is safe for use on most surfaces, including countertops, floors, and appliances. The vinegar will help to disinfect surfaces and remove grease and grime, while the baking soda will act as a mild abrasive to help remove tough stains. The castile soap provides additional cleaning power and the essential oil, if used, will add a pleasant fragrance to the solution.

Don't forget the little things

When cleaning, it's easy to focus on the big items, like furniture and appliances. But don't forget about the little things, like light switches, door handles, and baseboards. A quick wipe with a damp cloth will make a big difference.

Get the whole family involved

Spring cleaning can be a great opportunity for the whole family to work together. Assign tasks to each member of the family and make it a fun, collaborative effort.

Keep it up

Finally, don't let your hard work go to waste. Make a habit of cleaning and maintaining your home throughout the year to keep it looking its best.

With these tips, you'll be well on your way to a clean, organized, and refreshed home this spring. Happy cleaning!

Get expert help with spring cleaning

As you declutter and tidy, why not get a helping hand? We have a range of services to help you get your home in tip top shape!

Closet Consultation and Spring Clean Service

Perfect for decluttering and organizing your space

Housekeeping Deep Clean Service

Give your home a thorough and sparkling clean!

To book, simply open the URBN Playground app and search for “clean” to view all available services for your building. If you have any questions, email concierge@urbnplayground.com.

Download on the App Store

Download on Google Play

A Non Materialistic Gift Giving Guide: For the Special Ones In Your Life

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, February is a month for celebrating love. And when it comes to love, as Alicia Keys sings, “Some people want diamond rings, some just want everything, but everything means nothing, if I ain’t got you.” 

In this spirit, we’ve put together a non-materialistic gift giving guide that’s all about creating moments of togetherness and connection with the people who matter most in your life.

The gift of time

Wish you had more hours in a day? While that’s technically not possible, you can save some time by outsourcing tedious chores and freeing up more time to spend with those you love!

House Cleaning Service

There’s nothing like the feeling of walking into a freshly cleaned home. Book a house cleaning service for a friend or loved one to treat them to that sparkly clean feeling + having a few extra hours to kick back and relax! 

Or, book one for yourself, so that instead of cleaning, you can spend the time preparing a home cooked candlelight dinner for a special someone. 

House Cleaning on the URBN app starts at $185 for a 1-Bedroom Cleaning

Meal subscription

Know someone who is always in back to back meetings? Keep them well nourished and help them save that extra bit of time by giving them a meal subscription from a provider like Blue Apron, Freshly, HelloFresh or many others. 

The gift of connection

Yoga or Meditation Class

When we connect with ourselves, we can better connect with those around us. Rekindling these connections takes intentional and deliberate slowing down, and joining a yoga or meditation class and bringing a loved one along can help you do just that! 

Sip and Paint Experience

Let your creative side loose and see another side of your special someone, be it a partner or bestie, by going to a sip and paint event with them! Unwind with your favorite drink in hand and let your imagination run free on canvas. 

CANDLELIGHT DINNER AT HOME

A candlelight dinner at home can be a wonderful way to build intimacy in a relationship. The soft light of the candles creates a cozy and romantic atmosphere, allowing couples to disconnect from the distractions of the outside world and focus on each other.

Sitting down for a shared meal, whether it be a fancy dinner or a simple home-cooked meal, can foster meaningful conversations and deeper connections. This quality time together can help strengthen the bond between partners, leading to increased intimacy and a happier relationship.

The gift of experiences

In-Home Women’s and Men’s Haircut

Pamper someone you love this month with an in-house salon treat! Instead of the hassle of going to a salon/barber and waiting for a seat, have an expert stylist come directly to you, in the comfort of your home.

Book a Women’s Haircut for $125 and Men’s Haircut for $85 on the URBN app

Online Classes

If you have a person in your life who is always learning something new, why not give them a subscription to an online learning platform, be it Duolingo, Masterclass or Skillshare?

In-Home Massage

Give the gift of relaxation and wellness, with an in-home massage that will melt stress and tension away from the comfort of home! 

Book a 60 or 90-minute massage starting at $195 on the URBN app

Day trip getaway

If you are looking for a creative way to celebrate a loved one, why not plan a fun day trip or road trip to a nearby town or city? You don't have to spend a lot of money, and you can make it extra special by inviting a few friends along for the ride!

We hope this guide has inspired your planning in making this Valentine’s Day a memorable one for your special person (or people!). Ultimately, it’s not about how extravagant the gift is, but about reminding the people who matter most just how much they mean to us. From all of us at URBN Playground, we wish you a love-filled Valentine’s Day!

How to Set AND Keep New Year's Resolutions (According to Science!)

The start of a new year is the perfect opportunity to make positive changes in your life. This year especially, many of us are looking for a renewed sense of energy and direction as we rebuild from the pandemic. 

One approach that many people take to stay on track and reach their goals is to set New Year's resolutions. But anyone who has tried this knows that sticking to resolutions can be extremely hard! So how can you make sure your resolutions actually work? 

If you’ve already found yourself slipping behind on your resolutions, it’s not too late to make a change!

According to science, there are certain strategies that can help you create New Year's resolutions that are more likely to stick. Read on to learn three ways to set resolutions that work, backed by scientific evidence. 

Look back before looking forward

If you find yourself making (and breaking!) the same types of resolutions each year (example: to get fitter), it’s worth taking a look at what types of obstacles you faced along the way. 

As Britt Frank, a trauma specialist and author of The Science of Stuck, put it, “We often set lofty goals for the future without honestly assessing why we’ve struggled in the past. Without examining where we are resistant to change ... the cycle of resolve, relapse, repeat continues year after year.” (Source: WebMD)

Think small 

Breaking goals into smaller parts makes it easier to stick with them. It also makes us feel good about ourselves when we are able to actually achieve them. If the goals are too big, you’re likely to feel overwhelmed and give up.

“As humans, we are driven by the feeling of mastery,” says psychologist Mariana Strongin, PsyD. "So rather than making a goal of ‘becoming fit,’ I would make the goal of ‘working out three times a week for at least 45 minutes each time.’ (Source: WebMD)

Use habit stacking

Our brains are marvelous organs. Throughout your life, your brain is building a strong network of neurons to support your current behaviors. The more you do something, the stronger and more efficient the connection becomes.

You probably already have very strong habits that you take for granted each day, be it taking a shower each morning or brewing a cup of coffee in the morning. 

Best-selling author James Clear writes that, “One of the best ways to build a new habit is to identify a current habit you already do each day and then stack your new behavior on top. This is called habit stacking. Rather than pairing your new habit with a particular time and location, you pair it with a current habit.”

He also shares some examples of habit stacking: “After I pour my cup of coffee each morning, I will meditate for one minute. After I take off my work shoes, I will immediately change into my workout clothes. After I sit down to dinner, I will say one thing I’m grateful for that happened today.” (Source: jamesclear.com)

If you’re already behind on your resolutions, don’t beat yourself up! 

By using these tips to tweak your goals and make them more realistic, you can ensure a higher chance of success and mastery. Along with it, you’ll get to enjoy the feelings of accomplishment, confidence, and fulfillment that will come with keeping your promises to yourself.

Need some accountability in hitting your fitness and wellness goals?

Our URBN Playground personal training and coaching team is now offering a membership program that will help you stay consistent and committed! Join now and you and your trainer will meet regularly each week.

You will be charged a weekly membership fee instead of buying PT packages. We keep things affordable and simple so you can focus on your training! To sign up, visit the Fitness section in the URBN Playground app. For more information, reach out to concierge@urbnplayground.com.

*Available at buildings where fitness instruction and fitness amenities are managed by URBN Playground.

The Benefits of Being Kind (To Yourself and To Others)

Long days at work. Bills to pay. Relationship challenges. Frequent stress and worry. Wishing you had more hours in a day. If these things sound familiar to you, welcome to the human experience! 

Our modern lifestyles keep us rushing about at a hectic pace, trying to stay on top of everything we need to do, while trying to juggle between being a great employee, friend, partner, son, daughter, and the list goes on. 

In the midst of our good intentions to try to excel at everything, we can sometimes miss the forest for the trees, and lose sight of what really matters. At the end of the day, the things that matter most are simple - spending time with people we love, taking the time to nourish our spirit through things that inspire us and spark our creativity, and taking care of our physical and mental health. 

Yet how much time in our busy schedules do we really spend on these things on a daily basis? Let’s be honest. Probably not as much as we could be spending. 

This October, as we celebrate World Mental Health Day (October 10), in the spirit of being kinder to ourselves and to those around us, we’ve put together a list of 5 reasons you should start being kinder today - as well as some practical ways you can put kindness into practice, starting right now!

Doing acts of kindness feels good!

Feeling blah, moody, or anxious, and not sure what you can do to keep your thoughts and rumination at bay? 

According to research, evidence suggests that when we help others, it boosts serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters in the brain that are linked with happiness. As John Maxwell put it, “You can act your way into feeling long before you can feel your way into action. If you wait until you feel like doing something, you will likely never accomplish it.”

Put it into action: Start small! A simple act of kindness like texting a friend a short encouraging note or smiling at a stranger on the street can boost feelings of wellbeing and self-esteem. It only takes a few seconds to do, so why not challenge yourself to try this before the end of the day?

Helping others creates connection and reduces isolation

Doing things for each other is one of the ways we’ve survived as a species. We are wired to help each other and it’s one of the ways people create and strengthen their social ties. 

Through activities like volunteering or being part of a spiritual / religious group, we can feel a sense of belonging, make new friends, and become more connected with our local communities. 

Put it into action: Look up volunteer or community groups that you can join in your neighborhood, and commit to participating in at least one activity by the end of the month.

Kindness keeps things in perspective

When we help someone in need, it reminds us that we’re not the only person in the world facing challenges. We shouldn’t compare our problems to other people’s problems, but keeping things in perspective can help us realize that maybe our problems aren’t that big after all. 

Shifting our focus from ourselves to others can also provide a much-needed mental reset to come back and look at the challenges you are facing with a fresh mind that can problem-solve in a more effective way. 

“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.” ― Anne Lamott

Put it into action: Think about someone in your immediate circle who could use a helping hand, and what practical ways you might be able to offer them some assistance. 

Being kind to yourself is good for your health (and wallet)

As you build your ability to be kind to yourself, you also are building your muscle of optimism. Just like your physical muscles, a positive mindset needs to be intentionally cultivated. Even if you tend to view yourself as a negative or anxious person, you can take small steps to care for yourself, imagining yourself as a parent to your own inner child. Bit by bit, that ability to self-care will lead to more optimism and positivity.

This in turn boosts your immune system and protects your mental health as well. You’ll be able to sleep better and withstand the ups and downs of life better. As you fall ill less and suffer less mental anguish, that also means less trips to the doctor and therapist, and more savings (which you can use to treat yourself!).

Put it into action: What is one small way you can be kind to yourself today? It could be a hot shower, a warm cup of tea, listening to some good music, carving out time for a 30-minute workout, or taking an unhurried 15 minute walk outside. Focus on what makes you feel good rather than stereotypical ideas of self-care. What works for one person might not work for you - so find and create your own definition of bliss and mini ‘escapes’ in your daily routine! 

Kindness creates a positive feedback loop

When we are kind to ourselves, we’re more likely to be kinder and more thoughtful to others. When we’re kind to others, that in turn boosts feelings of confidence, being in control, happiness and optimism, leading us to continue this virtuous cycle of spreading kindness to ourselves and to others. And, the more accountability we have, the more likely we are to continue this positive feedback loop!

Put it into action: Is there one person in your life that you can tell about your intention to be kinder to yourself and others? Let that person know, and ask them to check in with you from time to time on how you’re doing to keep you accountable. According to bestselling author Gretchen Rubin, accountability is a powerful tool for developing new habits and breaking old ones.

Need more ideas on being kind?

Here’s some tips, curated just for you by our friendly team at URBN.

Join the URBN Burn 30-Day Fitness Program and be kind to your body.

You’ll get a 30-day program that you’ll be completing with a group of likeminded warriors who will hold you accountable and give you the motivation boost and encouragement you need to get started, and keep going. 

Gift yourself, a neighbor, or a friend a delicious organic cookie from Bang Cookies.

Created in 2016 by owner Georrge, Bang Cookies claims to give you "the best cookie-gasm of your life". Now, if that isn't kindness (in the most sinfully delicious way!)... 

Both of these are available within all buildings serviced by URBN Playground’s concierge team! 

Now on the URBN App!

Feel the burn by booking your next workout, and then treat yourself to an indulgent cookie after that (you’ve earned it!), all through the URBN Playground app:

Download on Google Play | Download on App Store 

Top Post-Covid Fitness and Leisure Experiences (and Their Hidden Benefits!)

Earlier this month, masks were made optional on public transit systems throughout New York. This marked the rolling back of one of the last coronavirus-related safety precautions in the state, as New York joined the rest of the country in easing masking and vaccination policies.

As we progressively return to pre-Covid freedom of movement, we’re seeing a spike in interest in fitness and leisure. Since the start of 2022, many of our fitness providers have been able to resume their classes and sessions as usual, along with many of the amenity spaces in the buildings served by URBN Playground.

We wanted to better understand how people’s preferences have changed after Covid, so we looked at the top fitness and leisure experiences our residents were booking on the URBN Playground App. Read on to learn more! And if you are one of the many people embarking on a post-Covid ‘Get back in shape’ effort too, we also share some inspiration and tips for the journey. 

Top fitness and leisure experiences people are booking in 2022

Since January 1, 2022, these are the Top 10 fitness and leisure experiences residents are booking in buildings served by URBN Playground across New York, Arizona, Utah, Virginia, and Texas:

1. Swimming (Lap Lanes)

2. Golf / Sports Simulator  

3. Basketball Court

4. Squash Court

5. Yoga Studio / Class

6. Video Game Room

7. Bowling Alley

8. Cardio Machines

9. Strength Training

10. Boxing Class

Five benefits of returning to in-person fitness experiences

According to a 2021 survey by ClassPass, the top 5 reasons people are returning to in-person classes are:

1. Better access to equipment

2. Feeling good physically and mentally

3. Pushing ourselves to achieve more

4. Receiving guidance from instructors

5. Greater accountability

1. Better access to equipment

At home, there are plenty of self-paced workouts you can do with just a yoga mat. But after a while, you might crave variety and the feeling of working out a different set of muscles that you can’t do with at-home equipment. The fitness bookings with the highest number of reservations are also those that require unique equipment that is not usually found at home. 

2. Feeling good physically and mentally

There’s something about physically being in a different environment that allows us to mentally separate home and outside-the-home experiences. If the workout is outdoors, there’s the added benefit of feeling closer to nature and enjoying a cool breeze that works wonders for not just your physical but also mental health. During the pandemic, rates of mental health crises soared, and we are more aware than ever of the need to take a break to recharge our bodies as well as our minds. 

3. Pushing ourselves to achieve more

When we are in a dedicated space to work out, without the distractions of home, from the television to pets or family members, we tend to be more focused and push ourselves to achieve a better quality workout. 

4. Receiving guidance from instructors

Having expert guidance is another big reason to workout in a class or personal training setting, where you can get feedback on your form, and improve much more quickly than you would working out alone. 

5. Greater accountability

When you work out in a group setting, there is a sense of community and accountability that you don’t get working out alone. Multiple studies have shown that when people work out in a group or with a friend, they are more likely to stick to a schedule, complete a fitness program, and achieve their fitness goals. The habits and behaviors of the people around us tend to rub off on us, and the added boost of friendly competition and encouragement makes workouts more fun too!

Fitness is a journey… and the journey is better shared

A recent survey by Forbes Health found that 56% of people feel more isolated since the onset of the pandemic, and 29% report feeling more depressed. 

Yet there is extensive evidence that strong support systems have been shown to reduce anxiety and depression and improve coping mechanisms. 

One way to ease into social settings to alleviate anxiety and depression is to find a common interest, and the huge variety of fitness-related activities provides plenty of options to choose from. 

It doesn’t matter what you do, or how you start your next workout. You can start it frustrated, sad, depressed, anxious - but the most important thing is that you started. The person who started the workout will not be the same person that finishes it. And if you’re lucky, you’ll meet great people along the way to share the journey with.

From all of us at URBN Playground, we wish you many fun, mood-lifting, anxiety-busting, limit-shattering workouts, alone or in the company of other warriors like yourself! 

Discover your next workout and new friends by booking a fitness experience in your building on the URBN Playground app today:

Download on Google Play | Download on App Store

Join the 30-Day URBN Burn Fitness Program

Change your life for the better in 30 days! Become part of a virtual fitness community in your neighborhood and hold each other accountable. Sign up for this fitness plan starting on the 15th of every month! Just download the app and look for “URBN Burn 30-Day Subscription” under Health & Fitness > Personal Training offerings.

What’s included?

✅ An exercise plan consisting of four weeks of workouts (option for both at-home and in-gym) created by our top #URBNBurn trainers

✅ Access a chatroom on the URBN app exclusive to members only where you can drop your inquiries, and a certified trainer will get back to you.

✅ A 60-minute group ZOOM session with URBN co-owner and certified personal trainer Amy Blitz that will include a 30-minute express workout, followed by a Q&A

Now on the URBN App

Go the Health & Fitness > Personal Training to access the URBN Burn 30-Day Subscription

The Power of A Sincere and Genuine Approach to Service

In today’s digital world, businesses are digitizing most, if not all, of their functions to increase efficiency, lower costs, and expand their digital presence. But to become a great business, you still need the ‘human touch’ to separate yourselves from competitors by building sincere and genuine relationships with your customers, employees, and stakeholders - something technology cannot replicate. Here’s why sincerity and genuineness still matters, and how you can harness its power to take your business to another level. 

Increasing customer satisfaction

Most businesses are obsessed with their bottom lines, and see customers as opportunities for profits to be made. This perspective often leads to short-term measures to secure immediate payouts by customers in the short-run, but in the long run, it becomes the detriment of businesses who have become tone-deaf to customer needs. Customers who find that their needs have been addressed disingenuously will switch to other businesses they feel they can trust more. 

How can you build lasting relationships with your customers then? It boils down to simply being sincere with addressing your customer’s needs and genuinely taking steps to meet those needs. Customer surveys, complaints, and criticism can sometimes be difficult to stomach, but this data is a gold mine to learn from when it comes to the needs of your customers. This data helps direct your resources to point the business in the right direction, to avoid investing in an advertising campaign or product launch that begets little traction. Customers who feel their needs have been heard and addressed will start to build trust with your business, and as a side effect, will spread awareness of your services through word of mouth - the best form of outreach of all.

Empowering your employees

Employees are the backbone of any business. Yet less than 50% of employees trust their companies, according to a Harvard Business Review article. A dysfunctional organization often sees its employees as a means to an end, and exploits employees' time and energy with little regard for employee welfare. While seemingly expedient at first, this approach is ultimately costly to the organization, which has to incur high search costs to replace employees who leave. Disgruntled employees also suffer from languishing productivity that translates to overall subpar operations. Ultimately, this lack of excellence could damage the brand’s reputation.

Your employees are the biggest assets of your organization; they are the eyes and ears of what’s happening on the ground. Information they possess can inform future business decisions that would benefit the organization. Such critical information, if ignored, could risk your business falling behind your contemporaries, or worse, drive your business to the ground. Additionally, an empowered employee will also take the initiative to resolve challenges as they arise, which takes the pressure off other peers and superiors from needing to resolve them - a further value add to your business.

Empowering your employees is as important as building trust with the customers you serve, and can be as easily achieved by sincerely understanding the challenges your employees face, genuinely giving them the environment to speak freely and air their grievances, and then providing the time and resources they need to be effective in their roles. This can be done through providing an avenue for employees to air their concerns openly to management without fear of reprisal, rewarding initiative taken to resolve issues and fostering a horizontal collaborative culture where employees feel they have ownership in the decisions of the business as opposed to a top-down command-and-control environment.

Cultivating strong business relationships

“If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants”
~ Isaac Newton ~

No business can exist singly and withstand the dynamics of an uncertain environment on its own - it needs the support of various other players to thrive. Hence a sincere and genuine approach to service extends to not only end customers, but also to other players in the ecosystem a business operates in. These include suppliers, vendors, business partners, investors and governments.

Business arrangements need not be zero-sum games where one party benefits at the expense of another. A parallel narrative similarly exists for business partners as it does with employees - businesses who take advantage of their business partners will find themselves knee-deep in constantly finding new partners to run the business with. On the other hand, businesses who have carefully cultivated strong relationships with their business partners, vendors, and stakeholders not only benefit from partners that are cognizant of the business’ needs, but also go the extra mile to help you succeed - a win-win scenario. 

In amenity management, the property owner and the amenities manager must see eye-to-eye regarding the business direction of the property to successfully attract, retain and meet residents' needs. A property owner and amenities manager who are in sync with the needs of the business can trust the other to undertake decisions promptly for the mutual benefit of both, which can only be achieved if a certain level of trust and sincerity has been established. 

Wrapping it Up

Technological tools can make certain business processes more effective or less burdensome, but it wont make a business successful or impactful. What truly leaves a lasting impression on both your clients and society as a whole is a business that is rooted on meeting the needs of people. This can only be achieved by building trust, by being sincere and genuine in both who you are serving and who you need to deliver that service. 

How e-Commerce and Digitalization Can Meet Customer Needs in a Post-COVID World

Business NOT as usual

The nature of business has been changing, even before the COVID-19 pandemic struck. Competition for products and services has intensified globally — technological novelty no longer holds the appeal it once did, and neither conventional products nor standard customer service is sufficient to stay above the competition. The arrival of the pandemic only served to accelerate some of these trends. 

The objective of customer service today is no longer just to address customer’s needs effectively and efficiently, but also to proactively anticipate and pre-empt customers’ wants to make their lives easier. Additionally, providing the most cutting-edge amenities has been overtaken by flexible working spaces and recreational areas that cater to the different needs of residents, especially in a pandemic when options become scarce beyond the gates of home. 

Here are some of the changes we observed taking place pre- and post-pandemic in building management and amenities today, considerations to think about to address these changes, and some ways to meet customers’ evolving needs. 

Customer’s needs have shifted towards well-being, not luxury

Even before the pandemic struck, the frenetic pace of our lives was making us shift our priorities towards better balance and overall well-being. The desire to have the newest, largest and trendiest gizmos, cars, and homes was replaced with the need for security, peace of mind, and happiness. Having state-of-the-art gyms did not seem to bring much satisfaction either — in fact, it may have exacerbated the missing social element that is present in group fitness classes. 

The pandemic and social distancing requirements only accentuated these needs further, as homes now had to double up as offices, playgrounds, and sanctuaries. Children needed a way to obtain education, but also playtime with their peers, all while being confined to their home. Parents and working professionals needed home spaces to be flexibly modified to accommodate working arrangements, family time and exercise to cope with the stresses of living in a pandemic. Hassle-free options for shopping and timely delivery of essential items while adhering to social distancing and hygiene practices also became a necessity. These considerations are not only likely to stay for the foreseeable future — in addition to becoming a contingency in case of future pandemics — they have also become the basic expectation of customers moving forwards.

“In today’s competitive market, buildings are being designed with pet spas, rock climbing walls, salt rooms, wine rooms, and coffee bars. Yet amid all these investments, another crucial yet often overlooked amenity is neglected - the service that occurs within these spaces.” 

~ Jeremy Brutus, co-founder of URBN Playground ~

How can you meet these changes in customers’ needs?

It is tempting to design amenities and properties to incorporate state-of-the-art amenities as to make your properties technologically one-of-a-kind. Yet, more often than not, alleviating your customer’s stressors is more impactful than providing a fancy amenity that isn’t used - you’ll be surprised that sometimes the small investments have the biggest impact for your return on investment, customer satisfaction, and consequently, the reputation of your brand. 

At the end of the day, it still boils down to meeting what the customer wants. Time has become a precious commodity during the pandemic. The challenges of working from home often meant more decision-making both while at work and at home, while having fewer options to destress and less time to relax. 

Solutions should be prioritized to enable customers to save time and free up headspace from decisions, while offering convenience and variety despite social distancing restrictions. For instance, e-commerce apps can house a one-stop utilities payment page, cleaning and building maintenance services, delivery options for groceries and other necessities as well as options for leisure through a variety of fitness classes. Chatbots in the app can help address common FAQs quickly, while more complex queries are routed to customer service agents to give more dedicated assistance, 24/7. 

“A person looking at a new or existing rental or condo is choosing a lifestyle, rather than a cold unit of space. This involves interactions that are unique, positive, and personal. Such interactions are the hallmarks of what URBN Playground does, drawing from our background in hospitality and infusing it into the work we do.”

~Amy Blitz, co-founder of URBN Playground~

What have we done at URBN Playground?

We have utilized technology that enables us to not only make the lives of customers easier, but also allows us to leave a personal touch to build relationships with customers. Additionally, technology opened up additional value-adding functions that expanded the breadth of our offerings to meet customers’ needs.

We created an On-Demand Concierge App that is available on both iPhone and Android phones, that serves as an amenities and event booking platform in client buildings. Residents of these buildings can now check on the availability of spaces and book these amenities with just a few swipes of the screen. The booking platform can be white-labeled, customized and seamlessly integrated with our clients' building systems.

The pandemic need not limit us from being able to view properties. We have designed augmented/virtual reality tours for customers to access spaces remotely. Customers who scan QR codes can access an augmented 3D reality of the building amenities as well as a building tour from their mobile devices. 

We have also designed a fitness program, URBN BURN, that identifies the fitness needs and goals of customers and creates a fitness program to meet these requirements. These sessions can be booked through our concierge app. The app hosts a range of workouts, from weight training, HIIT, meditation and even mobility routines that are guided by URBN’s trainers. Users also have access to URBN staff that act as accountability buddies to help customers stay on track for their fitness goals and build healthy lifelong habits.

Wrapping it all up

The lifestyle needs of customers today was already leaning towards better balance and well-being even before the pandemic erupted — the pandemic itself only further catalyzed these changes. The changes in preferences are not insurmountable, and boil down to basic human needs. By tailoring your digital solutions to meet these needs (while employing some creativity and technology in the process), you can build a stronger relationship with your customers, and thus a better brand. 

7 Tips to Getting Better Sleep

In his book Why We Sleep, renowned sleep expert Matthew Walker argues that there is a causal link between sleep-deprivation with depression, Alzheimer’s, heart disease and cancer. 

Getting enough quality sleep safeguards our mental health, physical health and quality of life. Yet more than a third of American adults are not getting enough sleep on a consistent basis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

Whether you suffer from sleep deprivation yourself, or are just generally looking for better sleeping tips, here are our top 7 tips for getting a good night’s rest:

#Tip 1: Stay cool

The temperature of your room contributes greatly to sleep quality. Your body temperature is one of the cues that your body’s circadian rhythm uses to determine the time to sleep. The recommended temperature for sleep is approximately 65 degrees Fahrenheit (18.3 Celsius), give or take. Experiment with different temperatures to find the temperature that helps your sleep best and stick to it consistently thereafter. You can do this by taking notes for a week on your sleep quality based on different temperature settings to find the optimal temperature for your best sleep.

#Tip 2: Watch when and what you eat

The time when you eat also affects your quality of sleep. For instance, having a huge meal close to bedtime is taxing on your body as it is winding down at night. Additionally, late meals also run the risk of indigestion or heartburn that will keep you awake at night. What you eat is as important as when you eat. Fun fact: Caffeine has a half-life of about 5 hours and can stay in the bloodstream until bedtime depending on the dosage taken, time consumed and personal factors of the individual. If you are sensitive to caffeine, you should reduce or eliminate your caffeine intake altogether to improve your sleep. 

#Tip 3:  Be consistent with your sleep schedule

It is also important to be consistent on the time you go to bed. We have all experienced the disorienting effects of jet lag when you arrive at different time zones - your body’s circadian rhythm is thrown off from what it is accustomed to. 

Keep a consistent time when you go to bed so that your body is able to develop an internal ‘clock’ for bedtime. This also means you should not have different sleep patterns on weekends compared to weekdays; having variability in your sleep on different days can prevent your body from settling into a familiar pattern of when to sleep. Additionally, having a naturally formed sleep cycle has the added benefit of not requiring alarms to wake up or needing to snooze.

#Tip 4: Rock the blue blocker glasses

The COVID-19 pandemic has made working from home arrangements the norm, which has also contributed to increased screen time on electronic devices. Unfortunately, increased use of electronic devices interferes with both the quantity and quality of sleep. The intensity of blue light from our electronic devices deceives our body into thinking it is still daylight, consequently affecting our circadian rhythm. If your work demands constant screen time, consider getting blue blocker glasses to reduce exposure to blue light to mitigate the harmful effects to your sleep.

#Tip 5: Exercise during the day regularly

Studies have shown proper regular exercise not only improves sleep quality, but can also alleviate sleep-related problems such as insomnia and sleep apnea. Exercise also helps to psychologically alleviate stress by reducing stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, while stimulating the production of endorphins, the body’s natural mood elevators and painkillers. 

However, try to incorporate exercise earlier in the day or at least three hours before  bedtime. Exercise raises your body’s metabolism and temperature, which will interfere with your sleep as you are winding down. If night time is the only time of the day you can exercise, try light workouts such as yoga or stretching instead. 

#Tip 6: Meditate before sleeping

For those who don’t have the time nor energy to squeeze in a workout, meditation is your next best alternative. Mindfulness and meditation has been shown to reduce insomnia, fatigue and depression. Meditating can be easily done in a quiet setting while alone, or you can use online resources such as Spotify relaxation or meditation playlists to help guide your meditation. Various meditation techniques include mindfulness meditation, guided imagery and music, body scan meditation and deep breathing, all of which can easily be done from the comforts of your own home.

#Tip 7: Replace your bedding

Don’t underestimate the effect that bedding has on your sleep. Be sure to clean your bedding,  pillowcases, pillows and blankets frequently, or they could harbor unsavory bacteria, mites and dust that can cause allergies or irritations that affect your sleep. It is recommended to clean your pillows and bedding at least once a week. Similarly, investing in a good mattress and pillows can help your sleep significantly by supporting your body as you sleep. Bad body posture can lead to body aches that affect both your sleep and productivity while you’re awake. 

Wrapping it all up

Sleep is a much needed necessity yet widely neglected function for a society that is getting significantly busier. Yet we need not alter our lifestyles very drastically to enjoy the benefits of sleep and still lead productive lives. We hope these seven tips above can help you to get the sleep you need while chasing your dreams. 

How Urban Communities Are Transforming Their Spaces for Work, Play, and Living

The pandemic brought devastation and disrupted our way of life. But it also made us pause to reconsider things from a different perspective.

As we faced limited options for moving around our cities and interacting with one another, we discovered new ways to work, play, and live. Some of these, it turns out, actually improved our quality of life. And some of these new trends are set to stay even as the world begins to re-open up and we work towards herd immunity.

Here are some of the trends we feel are set to stay even in the wake of Covid-19:

Rethinking mobility

As the pandemic limited our commute, it didn’t just save us time - it made us realize that it was still important to move. We took to our sidewalks and streets to walk, run, and bike - just to get our hearts pumping and fresh air in our lungs. 

Experienced urban planners like Janette Sadik-Khan, principal at Bloomberg Associates and former commissioner of NYC DOT, believes that transportation is “at the heart” of the Covid-19 recovery for cities around the world. 

In a column for FastCompany, Janette draws examples of how major cities everywhere, from Milan to Paris to London to American cities - have been announcing plans to extend sidewalks and bike lanes and create hundreds of miles of flexible streets that are not just designed for cars. 

She wrote, “...our streets are really a lifeline, and not just a way to get cars from point A to point B. With all the traffic gone, you can see all the possibilities hidden in plain sight. We’ve had a car-centric orientation for generations now, and it actually doesn’t work. On many streets in New York City, 90% of the traffic is pedestrian, but they only get 10% of the street space. We can redesign our streets so there’s more room for people to walk in, more room for people to bike, and dedicated bus lanes.”

More pedestrian-friendly streets are not just key for our health and wellbeing - they are beneficial for the climate too. 

Being together, safely

Covid-19 caused the world to realize what Asia realized since the SARS outbreak in 2003 - that dense urban spaces are breeding ground for viruses to spread. Not only that, cities were also centers of pollution and poor air quality. To combat the spread of viruses and filter out pollution, mask-wearing was already commonplace in many dense Asian cities. 

The idea of protecting ourselves from airborne pathogens or polluted air has since spread beyond masks. In every country around the world, innovative ways for people to congregate, while staying safe, have popped up. These include:

• Goldfish bowl-like acrylic screens that encircle patron’s heads as they interact in night clubs and restaurants;

• Plexiglass dividers in between treadmills and machines in gyms and sports centers;

• Drive-in open-air art performances where people can watch performances from behind their car windshields; 

• Bubble domes that allow individuals to dine in safety among other diners - or to take a group yoga class together; and many more!

These new ways of interacting in a shared space allow us to experience the magic of being together, close enough to see each other’s facial expressions without the lag of an unstable Zoom connection - while staying protected.

Better air quality

As we learned more about how the airborne Covid-19 pathogen spreads, especially through enclosed environments with poor ventilation and airflow, we realized how critical good air quality is. 

Besides spreading disease, poor air can increase the risk of heart and respiratory diseases, as well as lung cancer. It’s also a major factor in causing asthma (or making it worse). As asthma rates among children are soaring around the world, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued clear warnings that we need to improve the quality of the air we breathe.

According to the EPA, indoor air quality can be 2 to 5X more polluted than outside air - due to poor ventilation and air circulation. This is why scientists who study air quality are demanding a “paradigm shift” in ventilation standards. Just like how many restaurants and public spaces are required to display their hygiene ratings, they argue for the public to demand greater transparency about an establishment’s ventilation. 

According to Lidia Morawska, a physicist and an aerosol expert at the Queensland University of Technology in Australia who has advised the World Health Organization on the spread of airborne pathogens, we don’t really need to come up with new technologies to measure ventilation. 

“The simplest (though perhaps over-simplistic) would be a display of CO2 concentration.... Either via handheld CO2 monitors or CO2 monitors mounted in a public, visible space,” she says. Such a monitor would showcase whether there are a lot of people breathing in this room and whether what they are exhaling is being cleared out quickly. 

She adds that this concept is not new: “There are standards for CO2 concentrations, though in many buildings no one checks. But if it was mandated [to display CO2 concentrations in an indoor space] individuals could see the ventilation is bad.”

She also explains that this technology has been used in Germany for at least the last decade, if not longer, in schools. The CO2 meter also has a traffic light system: green, yellow, and red. The students and the teachers don’t have to look at what the concentration is, they see the color and immediately know what the air quality is.

Bringing nature closer

We’ve also realized how important nature is when faced with limited options to travel to exotic places. Many of us rediscovered our local parks, running trails, forests, beaches, and lakes, with fresh eyes. 

And amid Zoom fatigue and combating the increased mental health challenges of living through a pandemic, we’ve realized the importance and therapeutic effect of nature. 

Halvard Dalheim, Practitioner in Residence at The Henry Halloran Trust, University of Sydney, suggests that some ways urban planners might incorporate nature into everyday life includes “developing a lattice of widened nature strips” where people can walk, rest, and play, as well as “expanding urban tree cover and pocket parks”.

He also adds that “Better street lighting might be an important enabler for a walking community, not just a minimum provision for those who may dare to walk.” 

Mixed-use developments

When every trip out of your home meant risking deadly pathogens, people thought twice about venturing out. But in the process, we’ve also gained efficiencies in how we make our grocery runs, and realized how much time we previously wasted in commuting. 

Even after Covid-19, people are going to continue looking for options that save time and provide maximum convenience. This has escalated the trend towards mixed-use developments. Today’s buildings are more than just a shopping destination, or just a place to sleep. 

While mixed-use developments have been on the rise for some time, pre-Covid-19 the main anchor tenants were usually retail or office spaces. As offices have adapted to remote and hybrid work, and retailers have shifted to a ‘brick and click’ model - suddenly, these options seem less attractive as anchor tenants. 

Michael. Kaiser, Director of Design at The Beck Group, a Dallas-based integrated design-build firm and a member of multiple Associated General Contractors (AGC) chapters, believes that: “The most significant opportunity in mixed-use is focusing on the ways people prefer to live, work and play – now and in the years ahead. With this as the lens, medium-density residential is arguably the best anchor in today’s mixed-use environment because it is incumbent on the designers and developers to increase the amenities that mixed-use offers.”

The reason residential spaces can play a significant role in defining mixed-use buildings is because residential “blurs the lines of what it means to live, work and play in one place”. Today, people can choose to work fully or partially from home - so office and co-working spaces will complement the residential space. 

In between, people will also seek out ‘third spaces’ for recreation. With residential as an anchor, the development can center around many of the other trends already mentioned above - such as open-air, green spaces, and flexible amenities that many people desire, such as gardens and terraces. 

Co-working pockets in residential buildings

Last but not least, co-working is set to stay. With the efficiencies many people have gained once they adjusted to working from home during the pandemic, many don’t want to return to the way things were.

As many employers, especially in big tech, had already begun to offer flexible working arrangements, developers were already betting on co-working spaces built into amenity offerings. 

These include conference rooms and private offices that residents can reserve, even if doing so means reducing the amount of recreational amenity space. 

“Ten years ago, all these lounges were put into buildings for parties that never happened,” said Jeremy Brutus, co-founder of URBN Playground recently in the New York Times. “Now lounges are being used for work. It’s a shift in the way space in buildings is being used.”

Wellness, the URBN Way: Rethinking Self-Care and Fitness

The concepts of self-care and physical fitness are moving beyond a day at the spa and having a six-pack. Daily practices of drinking plenty of water, getting enough sleep and unplugging from work are more vital forms of taking care of oneself than sporadic special treats or crushing it at the gym. Physical fitness means nothing if it does not include total mind and body wellness - which comes from a commitment to put the following practices into your daily routine:

1. Prioritizing Self-Care

Americans (and those from other countries that struggle with overwork) have tried for several decades to define success as tireless busyness and personal accomplishment. But we feel that people are realizing the weakness of this approach. Self-care — particularly the well-informed type that prioritizes activities and experiences that contribute to overall happiness in life — is a very important cultural trend which informs URBN Burn’s fitness programming.

2. The Rebranding of Sleep

The “I’ll sleep when I’m dead” mentality is over. The importance of sleep is something that Americans have finally begun to pay more attention to, starting in the 2010s. This has only picked up in importance, with books like Arianna Huffington’s The Sleep Revolution (2016) dominating the mainstream consciousness. Medical science today highlights the many important ways consistently sleeping long enough and well enough is linked to better health and performance. With URBN Burn, sufficient sleep and rest is a key component incorporated into our program routines as well.

3. Strength Training Goes Mainstream

We strive to make space for everyone’s body and fitness level. The “crushing it” mentality is a great motivator for some, but not for all. Our bodies are not meant to work at an all-out pace or hitting max personal records at every workout. Rather, a well-rounded focus on movement in general should be prioritized. We program our fitness centers for modalities that include HIIT-style work, along with gentler forms like yoga, barre and pilates so that each individual can meet the needs appropriate for their body.

4. Muscle Recovery Tools Show Up Everywhere

Another fitness trend that’s taken root in the past few years (and should continue) is the increased attention to post-workout muscle recovery and myofascial release. In gyms where URBN Burn operates, we create relaxing areas with tools for myofascial release and stretching. A specific example is foam rolling, which can be done before and after a workout. Rolling can reduce post-exercise muscle soreness because it increases blood flow to the affected area. It’s not a cure-all, but for tight muscles, a lot of people find it to relieve pain.

5. Paying More Attention to Mental Health

There has been great progress in recognizing the role of our mental and emotional health in our overall well-being. Decades ago, meditation and mindfulness were too spiritual to be talked about in offices and schools. Today, there is a lot of research supporting the fact that physical health and physical health behaviors are linked to mental health.

6. Remembering That a Quiet Night In is Actually Great

Yes, this means getting to bed early enough to get a full night’s rest but the tenet also extends to enjoying simplicity and a peaceful environment. The Danish tradition of hygge is one that encapsulates this idea. The message of hygge is: “...the idea that happiness is not related to being entertained or consuming material goods. It’s the people you’re with and the quality of time shared that supports sustained happiness.”

7. Plant-based Eating is Becoming Cool

Plant-based ways of eating have been around for decades. This way of eating may have benefits when it comes to decreasing inflammation, preventing autoimmune disease, cancers and other chronic disease. For a long time, however, plant-based eating was still niche. Today, major food brands have introduced plant-based options, and major thought leaders, scientists, and celebrities are endorsing a plant-based diet. At URBN, we believe there are many benefits to increasing the percentage of plants in your diet, even if you are not planning to go fully vegan.

8. Boutique Fitness Concepts are Being Married with Progressive Weight Training

We love the things that the boutique studios got right — creating luxe group fitness spaces, programmed with spirited cardio classes that span the spectrum of fitness modalities. Just as important is a “sexy” and non-intimidating weight training/strength program. For us, this means incorporating a full suite of free weights, kettlebells and lifting areas for URBN Burn programs. We want to encourage all to find their way to strength training as the benefits are enormous.

9. Wellness Meets Instagram

We believe the best way to make a habit stick is to make it appealing. And so, finding ways of creating Instagrammable moments helps to make working out fun and social. From visual reminders of motivational quotes, to beautifully designed spaces, we believe the total visual and physical experience goes a long way in building community - and in keeping people committed to their fitness goals!

10. It’s Personal

At URBN, we believe service is the next trendy amenity. It’s not the physical space and equipment alone that makes a difference - personalized programs and experiences are key. Our URBN Burn programming takes these themes into account. We incorporate 1-on-1 consultation sessions with our trainers, and are able to modify training plans according to each person’s fitness level and goals. We aim to create warm, cozy shared experiences interspersed with fun and playfulness to support total wellbeing.

Concierge in Today's Environment

Do I really need the extra grocery run? Will I put my family at risk by going to the supermarket during Covid-19? How do I find out what are the Covid-adjusted hours for my local pharmacist? These are the questions residents face daily at a global scale. 

COVID-19 has forced a dramatic shift in how businesses operate, forcing most of us, aside from frontliners, to adhere to social distancing practices. While these restrictions are understandably in our best interest to preserve public health, they can disrupt daily routines and add more stress to people’s already hectic schedules.  

Can residents outsource these daily decisions to another party so that they can conserve their time and energy for family and their careers? The answer is yes, with concierge services reimagined for today’s needs. 

What is a concierge?

The history of the term “concierge” dates back to medieval times, with the original concierges charged with the gatekeeping of entrances to buildings and acting as a guide for visitors to medieval castles. Today, the concierge is usually associated with friendly, helpful front desk staff who greet you at the entrance of hotels, resorts and luxury residences.

When we think of a concierge, we think of individuals who are resourceful in offering recommendations and quick in anticipating, as well as meeting, your needs. While the concierge has typically been associated with wealth and used to be accessible only to the wealthy, modernization has expanded the concierge’s role, making it more widely accessible.

What concierge services exist today?

Concierges are meant to be versatile, performing just about any function that is required of them. Modern concierge services help customers handle routine, administrative and ad-hoc tasks so they can devote their attention to other priorities. Additionally, customers can leverage the concierge’s expertise and network of resources rather than having to devote search costs to making decisions on their own.

The scope of duties of personal concierges are wide, ranging from making travel plans, booking reservations, planning events and handling the house chores such as grocery shopping. The flexibility of payments for concierge services is another plus point; Fees for concierge services can be structured on a monthly basis, on an on-demand basis or a combination of the above, giving further options for today’s customer to opt in for the services they need. 

Concierge services are also relevant for more specialized and customized needs. COVID-19 has forced most residents, particularly the elderly, to stay home, limiting access to many essential services including medical facilities. To make matters worse, hospitals have been inundated with COVID-19 patients, further discouraging hospital visits by individuals with compromised health conditions. Medical concierge services grew to provide personalized care to clients with specific ailments and skip the wait-times in conventional hospital visits. This trend is likely to persist even after COVID-19, given the increased flexibility and convenience that consumers have grown to appreciate. 

The future of concierge services

The increasing digitalization of services has also expanded concierge services to online channels. Clients are now able to obtain concierge services with just a few swipes of the screen or punches on the keyboard. In the hospitality industry, hotel concierge services already offered guests the ability to request room service, food and beverage or enquire about other information such as opening hours of the gym and restaurants. Today, this means being able to request for services instantly via an app, on the way back to the hotel from a sightseeing trip, without needing to pick up the phone and call reception. 

As proponents of the digitalization of services, at URBN Playground we have developed our own in-house concierge app that facilitates easy access for our customers to the amenities and services offered by the properties we service. Our app enables our residents to book just about anything, such as health and fitness, rentals and accessories, home and pet care, event reservations, e-interior design, and shopping, amongst others. Our app also provides notifications or reminders to clients about their reservations of items of interests, to reduce the burden of decision-making or having to remember dates and events.

No longer a luxury for a few, but a necessity for all

While traditional concierge services have been designed only for the upper crust of society, the needs and demands of modern society have expanded the relevance of concierge services. Today, from the busy mother having to balance her job and her kids, to the busy executive who needs to entertain and host client meetings, to the medical patient seeking specialized medication and advice from home - almost any middle-class customer can access and benefit from concierge services. 

Concierge services are no longer limited to physical interactions either: the use of apps enables multiple concierge services to be offered on a single platform, 24/7. In today’s fast-moving, rapidly-changing world, concierge services are no longer seen as a status symbol, but as a vital tool in helping us cope with our everyday life.

An Unconventional Valentine’s Gift Guide

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner - and this year, it will look quite different from previous years. If you’re wondering how to make this day a special one even while social distancing measures remain in place, we’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re looking for a gift for a romantic partner or just an excuse to show some love to a friend, read on for our unconventional URBN Playground Valentine’s gift guide!

For the Competitive at Heart

We Are Not Really Strangers Card Game  

$25.00

Whether you’re just friends, just started dating, or have been together forever - this card game is guaranteed to deepen your friendship and connection - and perhaps reveal some unexpected surprises along the way too! Warning: Feelings may arise.

Shop now >>

For the Unconventional

Badass Candles

From $19.95

Do candy hearts and pink foil wrapped chocolates make you want to gag? There is more than one way to commemorate this special day, as Badass Candles prove. These are the most badass, edgy candles you’ll meet. Choose from skull-shaped candles with eyes that glow as the candle burns down, to decadently-scented candles with bold names like IDGAF, Bootylicious, or even simply “Burn 2020”. For those with a sophisticated, dark sense of humor, show them you appreciate their unique personality with one of these statement candles!

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For Those Missing Food and Travel Experiences

Traveling Spoon Classes

From $40.00 per person

Are you and your partner the type to spend special occasions jet-setting around the world and trying out different cuisines? Traveling Spoon has just what you need to feast your senses on cross-continental flavors, with authentic online cooking classes with locals from around the world. Fancy making fresh Italian pasta, Lebanese mezze, or Punjabi Aloo Puri? Whatever your taste buds are craving, you’ll find it here!

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For Those Separated By Distance

Homesick Candles

$34.00

Did you know that scent is the sense most closely tied to memory? If you’re miles away from your lover or bestie, why not send them a powerful memory of the last state you spent time with them in? These hand-poured, made in the US soy wax candles are formulated with each of the states carrying its own thoughtfully-crafted scent profile. Whether your special person is pining for the big bouquet of Texas or the botanical grandeur of California, these candles will offer a remedy for homesick senses. 

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For the Lifelong Learners

Uncommon Experiences

From $46.00 

Is your other half the type who loves learning new things? Give them the gift of exploration and discovery with a curated range of online classes, from mixology to fresh pasta making to watercolor portraits, and spend this day making some priceless memories together.

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For Those with a Green Thumb and a Sweet Tooth

Amborella Organics 

From $33.00 

Swap out the usual Valentine’s Day candy and flowers for a gift that's both of those in one! Featured in Food Network, Goop, and Health magazine, Amborella Organics has created the most beautiful organic lollipops with edible herbs and flowers weaved throughout. After devouring your pop, you plant the biodegradable stick in soil, and watch your herb or flower grow!  Kid-friendly and adult approved, Amborella Organic lollipops come in a variety of flavors including lemon & hibiscus, sage & marshmallow, rosemary & mint, and more!   Use code urbn10 for 10% off at checkout! 

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For Your Galentine

Send-a-Cake Valentine 

From $59.95 

Surprise your galentine with a send-a-cake Valentine box! Totally customizable, this adorable box is sure to put a smile on your bestie’s face. Create one from scratch and fully customize the gift box with your choice of cake, box, personalized note and fun additions or select a pre-assembled option.

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For Those Who Need to Decompress

In-Home Couples Massage 

Get a professional, rejuvenating massage for you and your partner without even leaving the comfort of your home! Use code LOVE20 for $20 off when you buy 2 massages on the URBN Playground mobile app.

Book through our Concierge Team >>

For Those Missing the Outdoors

Valentine’s Day Indoor Picnic for Two

Looking for ways to switch up your at home dining routine? Follow along on Thursday, February 11th at 7:30pm EST on @urbnplayground Instagram Live as our in-house Stylist, Erica Ashe shares tips on how to set up a sweet indoor picnic for two to make this Valentine's Day feel just a little bit special.

Learn more about Erica’s Services >>

Coping With Change in a New Year Unlike Any Other

By Shelly Ramoni, Fitness Director at URBN Playground

‘The only constant in life, is change.’ - Heraclitus

Have your resolutions fallen off the tracks since the start of the year? As January comes to an end, many of us are asking ourselves the age-old question, ‘Why do I keep making resolutions every year when I barely make it past the first month?’

New year, new me

We obsess about January resolutions every year, despite hindsight reminding us of the unfinished (or unstarted) resolutions of yesteryears. We tell ourselves each year that this time will be different. 

The media doesn’t help either - bombarding us with hopeful slogans such as “30-Day Cleanses” or “Dry January Challenges”. Every year, we mark our calendars for January 2nd with hopes of redemption to fix, clean and improve ourselves.

Perhaps this year, in 2021, we need to give ourselves more grace. This January has been unlike any other. In addition to the unfilled promises to ourselves from the past, we are living in a pandemic that is still afflicting billions of lives globally. Like so many people, I too still find myself plagued with questions and doubts such as ‘Why hasn’t the world changed yet? Why haven’t I changed? I can’t seem to get out of bed! No wine seems able to squelch the anxieties I still feel every night, nor the pint of Ben and Jerry’s. I told myself 2021 would be THE year, yet here I am still feeling terrible’.

Letting go of control

Recently, I came across a curious statement: A good resolution for the upcoming year can be just simply living to see February. While this might sound humorous or morose (depending on how you view it), I realized there was great power in the simplicity of this statement.

Many of us still feel a strong undercurrent of anxiety because of the persistent fear of uncertainty, loss, and of the future. How can we expect to crush our goals, have our best year ever, and pull ourselves up when we don’t even know what tomorrow will bring? Many of us have experienced the loss of our jobs or our loved ones, both of which greatly shapes our identity and self-esteem. 

This fear further fuels our desire and hope for a Great Change in 2021 for the better. But here’s the truth, life is always uncertain. We are driven by the illusion that changes in life and within ourselves are on a timeline; we believe that we are in control of our outcomes and that we know what is coming, but do we ever? 

What if we reframe to view the pandemic as a means to rebuild ourselves? Perhaps we can view the pandemic as an opportunity to finally let go of the illusion that we are in control of our outcomes. Freed from these expectations, we can focus on our internal selves and let go of the notion that we can and should control external events to be truly happy. We can practice living in the moment each day, knowing that the world’s destiny (and our own), is ultimately out of our control. Sometimes, we do not need to be the masters of our own fates. 

If not now, then when?

So then what does it mean to be in the New Year? Well, it is just the same as it is to be in a new day, in a new moment. Each moment is our opportunity to align ourselves with our intentions of the day. Living in the day, in the present moment, lets us off the hook in trying to control tomorrow’s outcomes. 

It means that we can take actions within each day to take care of ourselves, nurture our spirits, and allow ourselves to feel whatever feelings we are experiencing in the moment. Right now self care may be staying in bed, taking a pause and eating that ice cream, or maybe taking a walk, calling a friend, or picking up that journal and writing down all the things that we are grateful for today.

Instead of seeing 2021 as the great fix, we can see each day within this year (and every year) as our opportunity for a reset. Perhaps today is our opportunity to let ourselves off the hook in trying to adhere to an idea of what a “good” person, or a “successful” person is. We can change our intention to be a person who is present and “in the process” of life each day, of every moment. 

By aligning ourselves with a gentle intention borne from our present state, we can release ourselves from the weight of the “shoulds”. Our new intention can be, “Today I won’t ‘should’ on myself; I can instead be present and allow myself to take actions (or pause) in order to satisfy my needs today. Whatever timeline someone else is on is none of my business; I will stick to my own timeline and journey.”

Parting words for 2021

Who knows what 2021 will bring? Who knows what tomorrow will bring...let alone the next hour… and the next moment? We can believe that a shift is coming, but that shift is happening in each and every moment. All we need to do right now is to stay open, stay hopeful, and allow ourselves the permission to feel it all, the ups and downs and peaks and valleys. The Great Change IS coming, all we need to do is stay open and embrace it when it arrives.

The Importance of Connection in a Contactless World

The World In 2021

“My name is Robert Neville. I am a survivor living in New York City. I will be at the South Street Sea Port every day at mid-day when the sun is highest in the sky. If you are out there, if anyone is out there, I can provide food, I can provide shelter, I can provide security. If there is anybody out there, anybody, please, you are not alone...” –I Am Legend

Few would have thought that New York City today would so closely resemble Will Smith’s 2007 sci-fi horror, “I Am Legend”. The fears of solitude that beset Will Smith’s character, Dr. Robert Neville, in post-apocalyptic New York are very palpably felt by citizens all over the world today with the onset of COVID-19.

To curb the spread of COVID-19, governments worldwide have put citizens through a series of lockdowns and social distancing measures; cities and towns once bustling with activity are now sparse. Establishments that remain open require customers to wear masks, keep their distance, and have their temperatures checked prior to entering any premises.

The Costs of Social Distancing

While social distancing has become the new normal, it is not without its costs.  Humans are social creatures; most of us are not accustomed to living within the same four walls with reduced in-person social interactions for extended periods. This can be doubly stressful for the most at-risk groups of people, particularly the elderly and immunocompromised. Research indicates that loneliness and social isolation could have adverse impacts to mental health, such as reduced sleeping hours, poor self-rated health, and deteriorating cognition. In extreme cases, it is associated with suicide and suicide attempts among older adults.

To compound our challenges further, we have also had our mobility and recreation restricted. This not only limits recreational activities that helped us contend with the stresses of daily life in ordinary times (stress that is now compounded with COVID-19), but also deprives us of physical contact with friends and family who we would turn to for support and love. The World Health Organization reports that COVID-19 had disrupted access to critical mental health services in 93% of countries worldwide, while the demand for mental health continued to increase.

With the pandemic still raging, it is likely this status quo will remain for the foreseeable future. With this in mind, it’s more essential than ever to deliberately and creatively work around the challenges of a contact-free world to strengthen existing connections and build new ones. Here are our tips and strategies that can help you build connections in a contactless world.

We hope you find some of our tips useful, and perhaps, you may even impact the lives of others for the better.

Tips to Build Connection in a Contactless World

Tip 1: Make use of your time to catch up with friends and family

While curfews and lockdowns may confine you to your homes, this could actually give you better opportunities to connect with others than you otherwise could in a normal hectic working day. Working from home eliminates commuting while travel restrictions frees up time from your schedule otherwise spent transiting.

With more time on your hands, you can finally reach out to that relative or friend overseas that you have not spoken to for a while who is also likely confined at home. Video calls make interactions more personable in real-time without having to leave your doorstep. Why not spend some time teaching elder relatives and family members how to use one of the many video call services, be it Zoom, Google Hangouts, Skype, WhatsApp or Facebook?

Tip 2: Make it fun - Two’s a crowd, three’s a party!

To spice things up further, incorporate online games, group fitness classes and virtual parties to include more participants and activities to liven up the atmosphere. The internet hosts a plethora of options depending on your preferences. A quick Google search will list virtual gym classes at a time and date of your choosing that will get your heart pumping while meeting new people. (Speaking of which, URBN Playground offers its very own fitness program, URBN Burn, if you are interested in getting fit while building community!)

If you wish to do something more relaxing together, you can host Netflix watch parties through the Netflix app itself, or using online apps such as Teleparty. Or, take board game night virtual, with plenty of options to play traditional board games online on sites like Board Game Arena, Yucata, Happy Meeple and more.

For those of you who prefer a more personal touch, you can send a touchable gesture of love by making and sending hand-made gifts like origami, drawings and paintings to your friends and family through the mail.

Tip 3: Educate yourself

COVID-19 has forced many schools and universities to shift their classes to online channels. If you find yourself with time to spare and had always have a desire to pivot into other careers but never had the time to upskill yourself, you can finally explore alternative career paths on your downtime. If you are looking for classes to enroll into, massive open online courses such as Coursera and EdX offer a range of classes by the world’s top educational institutions covering almost every subject imaginable with options to obtain certifications if you wish to spruce up your resume.

DataCamp allows you to upskill yourself in coding and tech skills that are highly in demand in the market today. Online classes also give you the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals keen to pursue the same interests you are, and the opportunity to interact directly with leading minds of their respective subject areas.

Tip 4: Get involved in your community.

The pandemic has caused widespread unemployment, and many disenfranchised individuals and communities have been hit doubly hard. Charities and non-profits need to not only raise financial support to continue operations and provide for the needy, but require more minds and helping hands than ever. You can consider volunteering your time, energy and resources to these causes and make a difference on the lives of others in these difficult times. Research supports that volunteering and aiding others also benefits you through lowered stress and lowered risk of depression while expanding your social network and increasing your social interactions.

While Covid-19 may have robbed us of our physical connection to each other, it’s also a good time for us to take a pulse check on the health of our relationships, and seek out new opportunities to strengthen the connections we treasure, and build new ones we wouldn’t have built otherwise.

‘Tis the Season for Giving: A Thoughtful Holiday Gift Guide

2020 has been a year unlike any other. And as we approach the holiday and New Year season, we wanted to put together a gift guide that was thoughtful and appropriate for these times we are in. 

While we may be far apart from many of our loved ones, we’re learning more about what connection really means - connection across the miles, connection with ourselves, and connection with nature. 

We hope these gifting ideas will put a smile on the faces of your loved ones and tide them over this year end!

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Recommended by URBN Fitness Director, Angie Knudson

Sakara Products

Give the gift of health this Christmas. As we continue to huddle indoors, in front of screens, it’s so important to keep our guts and immune systems healthy and strong. Sakara offers fresh meal delivery but also packaged nutritional snacks and supplements, containing nutrients, healthy fats and lots of veggies.

Go to Sakara holiday shop →

Coffee Mug Warmer

 If you have a coffee lover in your life, this is the perfect gift for them! They will never have to drink lukewarm coffee again with this mug warmer that’s a perfect desk accessory for working from home. 

 See coffee mug warmers on Amazon →

by/ rosie jane Fragrances

At URBN Playground, we’re fans of products that are non-harmful to our bodies AND to the planet. by/ rosie jane fragrances don’t contain parabens, phthalates or hormone interrupters, is cruelty-free, and comes in 100% recyclable packaging.

Shop the by/ rosie jane holiday gift collection →

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen

This is the perfect gift for outdoorsy, active types. Supergoop! sunscreen has a weightless texture that feels like it’s not even there. What we love is that it’s made with a new reef-safe formula, meaning it’s now octinoxate-free - keeping our oceans and our skin safe at the same time. 

Shop Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen →

Air Plant and Succulent Designs

With access to the outdoor world restricted during the pandemic, we’ve been finding solace in bringing nature indoors. House plant sales are up, and one of the prettiest trends we’re loving is an aesthetically-pleasing, low-maintenance combination of air plants and succulents, made by hand by Etsy crafters.  

Shop EasyGrowinDesigns on Etsy →

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Recommended by URBN Head of Events, Sadie Villano

Kiehl’s Facial Favorites Gift Set

2020 has been a rough year, and for many of us, that means stressed out skin as well. Give the gift of calming and restorative skin care with Kiehl’s Facial Favorites Gift Set, packed with all the classics. Get 15% by emailing your order to vincent.pun@loreal.com with the code URBN15 in the subject for 15% off & free shipping!

Check out the Kiehl’s Facial Favorites Gift Set →

Sprinkle Splash Gift Boxes

Do you have a sweet tooth in your life? Sprinkle Splash has got you covered! From mug cake to sugar cookies sets, this gift offers double the fun - something to do while staying at home, and something sweet to enjoy! Shop for Sprinkle Splash gifts on the URBN Playground app, and use code URBN20 at checkout to get 20% off! 

View Sprinkle Splash Holiday Gifts →

Athleta Salutation Stash Pocket II Tights

We love Athleta because not only are their tights super comfy and soft, but also because they are a certified B Corp, an organization using business as a force for good, which includes empowering women, using sustainable materials in manufacturing their products, and diverting waste from landfills. This Christmas, they’ve partnered with us to offer URBN Playground customers a generous $100 off any purchase of at least $250! Simply show the URBN app in any Athleta store, or call 212-929-0512 to have your order delivered to anywhere in the US!

View Athleta Salutation Stash Pocket II Tight →

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Recommended by URBN Fitness Director, Shelly Ramoni

Gourmet Oil Dipping Spice Kit

 While we may not be able to get out and travel the world right now, you can bring the flavors of the world to the doorsteps of your loved ones! Simply send them this gourmet oil dipping spice kit that will let them dip into the flavors of the four corners of the world - France with herbs de Provence, Italy with oregano and crushed red pepper flakes, Spain with a pinch of smoked paprika, and the Levant with za'atar. 

 Shop Gourmet Oil Dipping Spice Kit on Uncommon Goods →

Essential Oil Shower Steamers

 Can’t get away? No stress. Give the gift of a mental reset that only requires going as far as your shower. This range of essential oil steamers made for use during showers will give your loved one an aromatherapy power assist while opening their pores to a real reset. Choose from Stress Relief with lemongrass, eucalyptus and orange; Invigorating Wake Up blend with spearmint and two kinds of citrus; or Sleep Tight, which uses the soothing essence of lavender to wind you down. Handmade in Washington State.

 Shop Essential Oil Shower Steamers on Uncommon Goods →

Compact Swivel Cheese Board with Knives

When you can’t travel far for luxury, bringing luxury home and indoors is the new normal. And grazing platters make staying in that much more bearable! Taking its cues from a wheel of cheese, this uniquely-designed cheese board starts as a wedge, and transforms to a tiered server for cheeses and appetizers. As an added bonus, the flatware stows in a small drawer inside the board. Designed in California.

Shop Compact Swivel Cheese Board on Uncommon Goods →

Make Your Own Hot Sauce Kit

Impress your foodie friends with this gift with a kick! Your gourmand friends will be able to make their own range of hot sauces with this DIY kit, offering cayenne, ancho, curry, and chili spice packs that can be combined to create unique, handcrafted condiments. Turn up the heat this Christmas with a gift that will be burnt into memory! Made in Portland. 

Shop Hot Sauce Kit on Uncommon Goods →

On behalf of all of us at URBN Playground, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year! Stay warm and stay safe, wherever you may be.

Redefining Wellness in the New Normal

Under normal circumstances, wellness is typically associated with spa days, massages, and workout classes. But COVID-19 and the physical distancing it has brought about has been disorienting, limiting access to resources and amenities that were otherwise conveniently available. 

On top of this, many people are dealing with heightened anxiety arising from a fear of the virus coupled with increased uncertainty. Together, these factors can quickly become overwhelming. Being physically distant from others can also make people feel more lonely or depressed.

While wellness during a pandemic may look drastically different, it remains just as essential, if not more. Here are some ways you can continue to practice self-care and wellness even while adjusting to the new normal.

Recognize the importance of self-awareness

Pandemics are stressful for everyone. This is not the time to compare yourself to others or beat yourself up for not doing better. Acknowledging that present times are unprecedented and recognizing that the feeling of being anxious or stressed is the first step to coping better. 

Pay attention to what your body is telling you. Signs of anxiety, stress and depression include:

• Sleeping difficulties

• Loss of concentration

• Recurring fear and worry of own health or that of others, as well as on state of finances 

• Worsening health conditions

Being kind to yourself includes recognizing that different individuals with varying backgrounds, socioeconomic status and social circles will respond differently from stress arising from COVID-19. 

This will enable you to accept that certain conditions are beyond your control and help you focus on matters you have more control over. 

Tap into breathing exercises to practice body-awareness

Often, we can be stressed without realizing it. Our bodies may be showing us signs of stress, but our minds are too busy to notice it. Meditation and breathwork is a simple, yet underrated technique to still the mind and make you more aware of physical sensations in your body.

Harpreet Gujral, program director of integrative medicine at Johns Hopkins’ Sibley Memorial Hospital, offers a simple breathing ritual to still the mind and be more fully present:

“There is a technique called 4-7-8 breathing, or relaxing breath, which helps you concentrate on deep breaths. The practice is simple: Breathe in for a count of 4, hold for a count of 7 and breathe out for a count of 8. Practicing this for four breaths four times each day or more can help relieve anxiety and reset the autonomic nervous system.”

Stay socially connected while physical distancing

Staying connected during these times is as essential for mental health as seeing a professional therapist is. Even if you may be physically distant from loved ones, maintaining regular social interaction in some form or another helps reduce stress arising from COVID-19. 

Some creative ways people to stay connected while being physically distant include:

• Scheduling regular Zoom calls with loved ones;

• Finding online games you can play in a group with friends; and

• Making your own or ordering gifts to be delivered to your loved ones.

If you find yourself needing additional support, consider engaging mental health professionals to support you during these challenging times.

Practice sleep hygiene

You are only as good as the amount of sleep you get, the food you eat, and the exercise you do. Developing a good sleep routine will help to fend off the anxiety and stress that is prevalent for many in uncertain times, by giving you not only a sense of stability and control, but also a feeling of achievement and progress. This in turn creates a positive feedback loop, by feeding  your self-confidence and desire to continue practicing good habits. 

How can you practice good sleep hygiene? Here are a few tips:

1. Reduce your exposure to electronic screens. As tempting as it may be to continue checking email late into the evening while working from home, it’s important to “switch off” to give your mind and body time to reset and recharge.

1. Avoid using your electronic devices as you are about to go to sleep or when you first wake in the morning. 

2. Limit the use of electronic devices to a fixed number of hours in a day.

3. Employ blue light glasses or filters to reduce the glare from your electronic devices. 

Take care of your body by eating well

It’s easy to stress eat during these times. However, it’s also the perfect opportunity to pick up a new hobby, if you haven’t learnt to cook, or to try a new diet or new recipes. Here are a few ways you can take care of your body by eating well:

1. Learn to cook your own meals. Picking up a new hobby can be fun and rewarding while giving you more control over the ingredients you use (less oil, sugar and salt).

2. Increase your intake of food and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are full of fibre that keep you satiated for a longer time, decreasing the likelihood of you grabbing junk food or binge-eating.

3. Bonus: Keep track of how much you’re saving along the way for an added motivation boost! Grocery shopping and cooking your own food is cheaper than constantly eating out or ordering in. With that extra change to spare, you can treat yourself to a reward!

Turn your home into your own sanctuary

Why do so many people enjoy an early morning or evening session at the gym or yoga studio? It’s because these spaces were created specifically for wellness and de-stressing. Look at the walls of most fitness spaces and you’ll find inspiring quotes all over them. Equipment is neatly stacked up, and accessories and decorations are tastefully placed. 

Bring this concept of creating a retreat home, by setting aside a designated space for your home workouts. Put up some posters or framed pictures or quotes that inspire you. Keep the sense of community going by joining forces with friends to make a routine, and hold each other accountable to it. You could even join virtual workouts together, in the comfort and convenience of your home gym.

In summary...

As wellness moves from public spaces to the home, its definition has also expanded. A wider range of workout, meditation, and other lifestyle classes (from kombucha making to tarot card reading) have become more accessible online than ever before. 

The pandemic has pushed wellness providers to rethink the way they deliver their services. Consumers’ ideas of “wellness” have also extended to include a greater focus on mental health, community, and lifestyle changes.

Jemma Shin, consumer insight strategist with trend forecasting firm WGSN, said in an article published by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce: "Since the coronavirus outbreak, people are increasingly shifting focus from ‘me’ to ‘we,’ looking at ways to tackle their anxiety with acts of kindness and compassion,” she said. “As a result, the wellness industry is now looking beyond how the individual feels and towards how they exist in a society.”

Mental Health Spotlight: Navigating Corona-Era Emotions

For the last six weeks we’ve been lucky enough to host Dr. Tash on our Instagram Live feed for a Q and A. 

Dr. Tash is a licensed counselor who has been helping us navigate our emotions in the Covid era. We’ve pulled these top five takeaways from our “Talks with Tash”: 

#1: “Return to physical safety”

The unknowns such as what/where is safe, are just that, unknowns. They were always unknowns--even before the pandemic; we’ve only been relying on a sense of security. To help the body (and mind) return to physical safety, try the following:

• Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing. Try one as simple as breathing in for four steady counts and exhaling for the same. 

• Meditation/Mindfulness: Calm, Headspace apps, and Insight Timer are a few of our top favorites. 

• Grounding: by definition, grounding refers to a physical or spiritual connection with Nature or the literal ground. Petting your dog, taking a walk, or even sitting on the beach are all grounding activities. Visualizing your “grounding spot” is another technique for grounding when you are unable to get down and dirty (pun intended).

#2: Journaling & Writing 

Science has shown that there is a connection between the physical act of writing and improved mood, improved immune system functioning, and a reduction of high blood pressure, cholesterol, symptoms of depression,  anxiety, and even PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). 

• Makes connection between thoughts & feelings 

• Creates alternative perspectives & reflect on our experience

• Identify & label emotions

#3: Connection & Relationships

We may not have realized it in our day-to-day, pre-COVID socializing (going to the gym, happy hours, etc.), but a pandemic may cause us to take a closer look at which interactions establish meaningful connections and whether or not those connections remain nourished within our relationships with others. 

• Assess the quality vs quantity of your relationships & address true source of loneliness

• Consider creative ways to connect with family and friends virtually & more authentic ways.

#4: Separate fears from practical vs hypothetical

• It’s easy to get caught up in fear and allow it to snowball into a daylong activity with no parameters. Give your fear and worry some structure:

• Although worry & anxiety are designed to keep you safe, redirect to things in your control.

• ‘Schedule’ or compartmentalize worry (ex. Give self 15m /day to worry). 

#5: Find a healthy balance

• We have a limited amount of time and energy each day

• Balance is not a matter of figuring out how to do everything, but prioritizing what’s most important at the time against your personal values & goals

• Focus your energy on those things within your control while letting go of the others

A Final Note

For more information about Dr. Tashika Halloway visit https://tlccounselingatl.com/.

Five Self-Care Tips for Everyone to Enjoy

The term self-care is more than lavish spending at a spa or on vacation, but more so keeping up a basic and therapeutic routine. In today’s society, we tend to forget our own needs and how to meet those needs, accordingly. It is one of the most important factors to keep us mentally and physically stable each day. Self-care can be as basic as getting 7 to 8 hrs of sleep each day and taking a multivitamin. Check out these tips below, put yourself to the test, and treat yourself at the end of the week.

Tip #1 Hydration

Being properly hydrated not only is good for both your skin and digestive health, but it also affects our energy levels. If you are an active person, you need to hydrate even more before, during, and after your workouts for optimal results. After all, no one wants to begin a workout just to feel the joints cracking and a tight back.

Before: be sure to consume two cups of water before your workout. Avoid caffeinated beverages that can dehydrate you quickly.

During: Drink a minimum of 4-6 ounces every 15-20 minutes to keep your body well hydrated (pro tip: 4 ounces is roughly the size of any standard shot glass). The longer the workout, which would be an hour or more of strenuous work, be sure to have a combination of water and a sports drink that contains electrolytes. Staying hydrated will decrease your chances of injury, headaches, and improve performance.

After: Make your regular water fancy and primed for recovery-even at home! Add cucumber slices, limes, and lemons, or even pineapple to your water to infuse it not only with flavor but extra vitamins and minerals and give you the sensation of being at the spa!

Tip #2 Moisturizing your skin

Moisturizing your skin doesn't have to be expensive but is definitely worth an investment. The skin is the largest organ in the human body and receives the most exposure from the sun and outdoor elements. Yes, you can walk inside your local drug store or order products online but make sure you do the following: identify your skin type and pick a moisturizer that contains SPF. If you are outdoors longer than two hours, make sure you reapply.  At night use a toner, gentle exfoliator, and night serum. Check out this link to identify your skin type A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your Personalized Skincare Routine. If you find your skin needs additional moisture, perhaps during a period of high stress or winter months, opt for a hydrating mask.  For a classic  facial moisturizer with SPF, check out Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Moisturizer SPF 30 Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Moisturizer SPF 30 .

Tip #3 Soak your Feet in Epsom Salt

Soaking your feet in Epsom salt is by far one of the most underrated forms of self-care. Activities such as running, walking the city streets, or cycling to the workplace tremendous amounts of pressure and stress on your feet. Soaking your feet in Epsom salt has benefits such as reducing muscle soreness, exfoliating, and reducing potential foot odor. Plus, it just feels amazing!

DIY Epsom Salt Foot Soak

A foot soak involves immersing the feet in warm water. According to the Arthritis Foundation, water temperatures between 92°F and 100°F are best to ease soreness.

To use Epsom salt in a foot soak, consider the following steps:

1.    Fill a basin or foot spa with enough warm water to cover the feet up to the ankles.

2.    Add half or three-quarters of a cup of Epsom salt to the water.

3.    Place the feet in the soak for about 20 to 30 minutes.

4.    Dry thoroughly after the soak and then moisturize the feet.

Tip #4 Sleep Matters

What matters the most is the quality of your sleep you get tonight. In turn, you can go harder in workouts tomorrow. Sleep recalibrates our body and rejuvenates our mind, muscles, and mood. Lack of sleep comes with a series of health issues which include: hormonal imbalances, weight gain, and not to mention; feeling miserable. Getting a good night’s sleep comes with habits that include: exercise, cutting down on alcoholic beverages, and reducing screen time at night. An evening meditation will soothe your mind and help you drift off peacefully so that you can tackle what the next day brings--we like the Calm App or Insight Timer.

Tip #5 Treat Yourself

Life is tough and you should indulge yourself more often. By implementing one or all of these self-care options, your reward can be anything from seeing live music, watching a new movie, or enjoying your favorite treat in moderation.

Regardless of your wellness routine, self-care can be as simple as sleep and more water intake. Try any single tip above for the next 5-7 days, and try another one after that. Remember it takes time to build up healthy patterns and habits, and this is true for self-care as well.

A Final Note

Interested in taking self-care to the next level? We have virtual meditation, yoga, nutrition coaching, and personal training available via the URBN APP.