It Takes a Village: Ways To Take Care Of Yourself In Lemont
Over the past few years, we’ve seen people flock to Lemont for many different reasons: They’re interested in trying out one of our award-winning local restaurants, browsing our many small businesses and shops, or simply embracing a slower pace of life just 40 minutes outside of Chicago.
Whether you’re visiting for a day with friends or deciding whether or not to call it home, we are a village that knows how to take care of our people.
Winter is long and the solitude can truly affect your mental health. To inspire you to take care of yourself and others this season, we’ve put together a few ways in Lemont.
move your body: a little or a lot
Lemont is packed with great running paths, hiking trails, and tons of adventure-filled challenges. Plan your day around a race like The Quarryman 5K & 10-Mile Challenge, The Forge Lemont Half Marathon, or the infamous Run with the Nuns of Mt. Assisi in the fall.
Take advantage of the I&M Canal Trail or any of the great hiking paths through the Forest Preserve of Cook County.
Every Monday, the Lemont Walking Club hosted by Bee Well Collective meets at 9:30 AM to walk! It’s that simple. Locations usually vary but during the cold, winter months you can find them at the CORE Center at the Lemont Park District. Folks are welcome to walk outdoors or indoors on the track. All levels are welcome and this is a great ritual to add to your week.
On the 3rd Monday of every month, join Bee Well Collective for the Monday Morning Mosey and Wellness Talk at the Lemont Library. You’ll have the opportunity to walk and join in on a wellness conversation with founder, Danyelle Andrews. Join the Lemont Walking Club text group by emailing Danyelle here.
Ready to kick it up a notch? Check out Lemont’s latest fitness studio, Treadfit Lemont! This studio provides small-group customized workouts from certified trainers. Plus, they have a 7-day free trial!
fill your life with Creativity
Find your green thumb and/or bring a little life inside at Aster Gardens. Studies show that indoor plants can reduce anxiety and depression exponentially. Sit down with shop owner Amanda to plot out your spring garden or pick out a ‘just because’ gift for a friend. Or sign up for a weekend workshop where you can learn a new skill and brighten up your space with a fresh plant.
That Girl + Co is a wonderful spot to get together with friends and try out a new craft or plan your entire birthday party, bridal party, or anniversary around in Lemont. We’re huge fans of the chunky knit blankets and wood carving workshops. Mabel’s Market often hosts paint-your-own furniture classes, as well as fun outings like the vintage shop hop!
Make New Friends in Lemont Downtown
After the indulgent holiday season, it might sound counterintuitive to involve eating and drinking in your wellness plan. However, hear us out: Lemont has some of the friendliest people on the planet.
Try any of the wonderful restaurants and bars around town and strike up a conversation with a stranger. Contrary to popular belief, strangers do not always equal danger—studies show they can be sources of comfort and belonging that can expand your world. Our long-time Lemonters love talking about their hometown and you can even get the inside scoop on upcoming events in the area.
Soak Up The Sun (or The Grey Midwestern Skies)
Fight back at your SAD (seasonal depression) with a spot inside the themed igloos at Digs on Canal or a walk along the canal. You’ll be seated in the center of Lemont Downtown and get a front-row view of any of the season’s activities while enjoying some delicious food. The heated igloos can seat up to six people but we recommend partnering with a friend to reserve one on a lunch break and catching up on each other’s lives.
Support a Small Business
While most businesses would love your continued purchases and brand loyalty, there are so many other ways to support them. The data shows, shopping small builds connection which thus reduces anxiety and sadness. You’ll be supporting jobs for the local economy and you have a change to catch up on all the village’s happenings. We’re wired to thrive together.
If you can’t get out to the shops consider posting a few of your favorites on social for friends to engage, arranging a date night for your friends at One Eleven Martini, Barrel & Vine, or Wooden Paddle, or giving a gift card and local experience to a couple for the wedding, baby shower, or graduation.
For more ways to take care of yourself this season, follow us on Instagram, Facebook or subscribe to the Lemont Downtown Digest.
