Choose a slow and mindful start to your 2026 at a local goat cuddling session, plant workshop, aromatherapy, and more. To help you pick your pace, we compiled a list of upcoming events that will help with your self-care.
Planting Intentions
Slow down and tap into your creativity at Steadfast Supply this month. The local gift shop is hosting a hands-on workshop for neighbors to paint and decorate a terracotta planter. After crafting a new home for your greenery, you’ll get to plant a seed and reflect on your intentions for the new year ($17).
Floating Sound Bath Series
Immerse yourself in an elevated sound healing experience at luxe hotel and spa Salamander. Spa guests can choose to soak in the guided harmonies of crystals, vibrating Tibetian sound bowls, flutes, gongs, and other instruments from the comfort of a pool float or in a poolside lounger. The workshop led by Natalie Ngounou from Sounds of Gratitude sells out quickly so we recommend snagging a ticket in advance ($85+).
Create Your Own Wellness Oils
Soothe your senses and calm your nerves with aromatherapy at Shop Made in DC. This rejuvenating wellness activity offers guests a chance to smell a curated selection of essential oils and botanical scents, and then craft a personalized blend to take home($48).
Goats + Bingo
With goats from Walnut Creek Farm, Faith Lutheran Church will host an evening of joyful cuddles and animal therapy in between rounds of playful bingo ($44).
Intuitive Art Making
Express yourself at a free-flowing art-making class at the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington. Arts educator Natalie Regan leads participants in a watercolor experiment where artists can test out working with bold colors and learn new techniques ($23).
Yoga + Sound Experience
Join an all-level guided yoga flow class in the National Building Museum’s Great Hall led by instructor Beth Wolfe. Bend and stretch under the hall’s giant 75-foot-tall Corinthian columns, while taking in the calming multi-sensory sound experience created by Liat Pisco featuring a gong, ocean drum, chimes, and crystal bowls; bring your own mat ($35).
A Gentle Walk With Birds and Nature
Go on a refreshing stroll through Rock Creek Park trails with guide Susan West Montgomery. Along the gentle walk there will be pauses for bird watching, and forest bathing to take in the sounds and sights of nature ($28).
Briana A. Thomas is a local journalist, historian, and tour guide who specializes in the research of D.C. history and culture. She is the author of the Black history book, Black Broadway in Washington, D.C., a story that was first published in Washingtonian in 2016.
