Experience a day of Tranquility. 

After the holidays, it’s important to take care of ourselves otherwise we become worn out, and our resilience will weaken. Symptoms of depression and anxiety (which no one can escape in this lifetime) can become exacerbated by additional stress. Stress-inflamed symptoms are challenging to endure, especially with the added pressure of the holidays.

Here are 6 recommendations for ways to de-stress after the holidays. These suggestions are nothing new, but they are worth repeating. 

Rest

The ability to relax is essential in effectively managing stress and anxiety. When we feel stressed, our bodies react with what is called the “fight or flight” response. Our muscles become tense, our heart and respiration rates increase, and other physiological systems become taxed. Without the ability to relax, chronic stress or anxiety can lead to burnout, anger, irritability, depression, medical problems, and more. Allowing yourself to relax deeply is the exact opposite of the “fight or flight” response. Relaxation exercises can be a powerful weapon against stress.

Treat Yourself To A Spa

There are several places near the Farmstead whether you like to go with a friend or partner, it might  be just what you need.  Here are two I personally can recommend, 

Flow Motion

Flow Motion is Ferndale’s only healing spa and yoga sanctuary, perfect for a solo getaway, couples, or groups. Whatcom County pioneers in infrared hot yoga and halotherapy in their Himalayan salt cave, enjoy unique and natural escapes like a salt-waterfall in the amethyst crystal cave, the area’s only infrared salt sauna, zero-gravity massage lounge, and traditional spa staples like massage therapy, reflexology, AromaTouch, and Vibrational Sound Therapy.

Still Life Massage and Float
To find true escape, try something new and give float therapy a try. Although they’ve been specializing in massage since 2002, this business added the “and Float” to their services in 2015.

In addition to traditional and therapeutic massage, float therapy is a relaxing and fun way to reduce tension and stress accumulated in the body. It’s a way to experience ultimate stillness, reaching a level of relaxation you may have never experienced before.

 You walk the nearby marina and Zuanich Point Park and enjoy Anthony’s, Hearthfire Grill. Details below.

Take A Walk Along The Sea

Visit Bellingham Squalicum Harbor, located a few miles from the Farmstead. There are several restaurants to enjoy a nice lunch while overlooking the Harbor. Enjoy the fresh air. There is a very long 

From the parking lot on Roeder and Bellewether Way, this paved path goes around the beautiful Hotel Bellwether, around Squalicum Harbor, and out to Zuanich Point. With a beautiful run with breathtaking views of the Bay and Bellingham, and Fairhaven, you can also take the new path east of Bellwether that goes out towards the new waterfront development. 

Located in the Harbor are a few fantastic restaurants. 

Lombardi’s in Bellingham
Nicki’s Bella Marina
Web Locker Restaurant 
Lighthouse Bar & Grill
The Loft Restaurant
Kuru Kuru Sushi
Anthony’s Hearthfire Grill
Anthony’s at Squalicum Harbor

One of our favorites is Nicki’s; it sits next to the Yacht club to overlook the nice boats. The 2nd choice is The Loft. It has outdoor seating with big glass windows that overlook the Marina.

Wander In a Museum

Take a few hours to stroll through the Lynden Pioneer Museum

Located on historic Front Street, the building itself is part of the rich history of early Lynden. Built in 1913, the structure was the location of an implement dealership and a blacksmith shop. Today it houses impressive collections, authentic dioramas, and a good dose of small-town charm. The Pioneer homestead exhibit gives the visitor a glimpse at what pioneer life might have been like in Whatcom County, with a life-sized replica of a homestead. An old barn exhibit leads right into a diorama of a typical pioneer kitchen, using items donated by local families. There is also a parlor featuring period furnishings and a Victorian-era bedroom. Also in this gallery is the military exhibit, featuring local military-related artifacts and memorabilia from as far back as the Civil War.

Try A Little Shopping Therapy

Petals and Blooms Home Decor. I often get rave reviews about the decor in our accommodations. I frequently shop in their store, located only about 30 minutes from the Farmstead. They are a small family-run business located in the small town of Ferndale, Washington. Erin & Bre McGuire built Petals & Blooms with a mission to offer the best farmhouse & modern home & garden decor items they could find. It is a great place to shop for seasonal & everyday home décor. If you go to their shop, be sure to tell them the Oostema’s sent you over!  

Take In A Sunset

Take some time to take in a breathtaking sunset and unwind in the hot tub for the evening. And depending on the weather, you can also have a nice fire around one of the fire rings we have set up.

For more information on Lynden, check out our Local Guide, and enjoy your day before you return to your cozy getaway at the Oostema Farmstead.  We will keep the lights on for you.