21 ways to achieve wellness in Boston in ‘21

Serious local hikers may head farther afield to the White Mountains or the Appalachian Trail, but when you just need a little bit of nature, there are plenty of worthy hikes near Boston that are easy to get to. Depending on your proficiency, see if you can handle a step up; if you're more of a beginner type, push yourself with something a little more moderate. And if you're a casual armchair hiker, see if you can handle a full-day monster route. Check out our list of the area's best hikes and find the right one for you.

Now more than ever, there's no excuse for skipping out on a workout as various Boston gyms and fitness studios are offering online alternatives to their typical workouts. From real-time classes via Zoom to downloadable instructional videos, step up your fitness routine with these online fitness options.

When it comes to self-reflection, there's nothing like staring at the open ocean. Boston’s North and South Shores have picturesque beaches, all less than an hour’s drive from the city. Pick the right day and you might have a whole beach to yourself—talk about solitude.

Boston has plenty of opportunities for you to induge—some might say gorging on the best delivery food is a form of self-love. But we think the healthiest way to support the local restaurant industry is by enjoying a meal at one of the best healthy restaurants in Boston.

Whether you're a native who knows The Hub inside and out, or a relative newcomer, there’s no better way to connect with the city's past than by walking the 2.5 mile path, clearly marked by a red line on the sidewalk. You'll get some exercise while cruising past several of the city’s best-known historical sites and attractions. Find a site that speaks to you, and reflect on what life must have been like 300 years ago.

It doesn't get much more zen than staring at a priceless, complex work of art. Some of the world's great masterpieces can be viewed here in The Hub. Whether it's your first time or 100th, carve out enough time to slow down and really ponder the art on view.

If you can't visit one of the best florists in Boston, there’s something magical about getting flowers and houseplants delivered to your door, or to the door of a loved one. You can improve your home's visual appeal, air quality and more. Plus there's something rewarding about caring for a plant or seeing how long you can make a bouquet last. 

Boston's green spaces are glorious, anytime of year. So find a day that's totally open, take a look at the map, and line up a tour of the city's best parks. You'll get your legs moving while enjoying the kind of people-watching that helps to develop perspective. If nothing else, you can politely study others who are able to calm their mind and find zen in a public park.

Hot or iced? Strong and black or sweet and creamy? However you like it, a good cup of coffee is never far away in The Hub. If you're a serious aficionado, treat yourself to some rare beans or a perfectly-prepped barista drink from one of the best coffee purveyors in Boston. To a true java junkie, there's nothing like patiently waiting for a gourmet pourover.

One of the best things about living in Boston is the proximity to world-class skiing. If you're a ski fanatic, you know what we're talking about, so see if you can conquer new heights (literally). And if you're a first-timer or more of a novice or, don't put it off any longer—hit one of the best slopes near Boston and improve your skiing skills. After all, countless enthusiasts claim the meaning of life can be found at the bottom of an epic run.

Feeling stressed out or a bit ragged? (Aren't we all?) At the best spas in Boston, you can unwind and nourish yourself mentally and physically, from your skin and muscles to your mind. Enjoy a therapeutic massage, rejuvenating facial, pedicure, or a full day of relaxation that will have you forgetting about all your worries.

Whatever kind of diet you follow, there's something to be said for filling your system with clean, plant-based fare. Throughout Boston you can now find a wealth of restaurants that are geared primarily towards those who eschew meat and dairy. More than your standard tofu and soy cheese afterthoughts, you can get your fix of ice cream, pizza, nachos, and even fine dining fare at the best vegan restaurants in Boston.

Boston is widely recognized for its high cost of living—good thing there are some seriously fun cheap things to do in Boston that are easy on one's budget. In fact, you can even find plenty of free things to do. As we all know, giving your wallet a break is always good for your health.

Whether you're a playful parent or a kid who never grew up, there's something undeniable about zooming down a snow-covered hill. You can't help but reminisce about your youth—just remember to keep an eye out for any little ones, as there's no wellness to be found in causing a wipeout.

Looking to get in shape or take your fitness routine to the next level? In normal times, Boston has a range of gyms to suit whatever fitness routine you seek. Whether you’re looking for personal training, cutting edge equipment, the latest workout trends, or mind-body fitness, the best gyms in Boston offer it all.

Treat yourself or someone special to a proper staycation at one of the best hotels in Boston. We all need a change of scenery every now and then, plus a night away might help you appreciate the comforts and warmth of home.

There's something undeniably powerful about getting food straight from the source, and while we all can't travel around Eastern Mass visiting family-run farms, there are plenty of solid farmers markets around The Hub. So make a point to visit one, and have a friendly chat with a farmer or maker. You'll learn more about what you're putting into your body, all while supporting the local economy.

Visit the best bookstores in Boston and you'll find yourself interested in all kinds of subject matter. Spend some time thumbing through cookbooks and you might look at your next at-home dinner differently. Better yet, explore the health and wellness section, find some titles that appeal, and bring insider tips home with you.

Just because it's dark and cold out, that doesn't mean you should just stay in—fight off seasonal depression and force yourself to brave the elements. There are many things to do outside during the snowy season. Looking to achieve mental clarity? Try something new-to-you, block out the cold and focus on the task at hand.

If you're a chocoholic who can never quite get enough, set out to sample Boston's best hot chocolates. You'll satisfy your sweet tooth once and for all, while taking time to slowly savor a rich, smooth mug of hot choc. Just don't gulp it down too fast—remember to enjoy the experience.

Given how intense life can often be in our humble metropolis, every Bostonian gets a little stir crazy now and then, especially during these times of social distancing and working from home. Fortunately, all one has to do is hit the road to explore the many wonders of New England. Once you're back in The Hub, you'll find yourself appreciating all that we have to enjoy here in the region's biggest city.