The right tools make it easier to stick to your resolutions in 2013.
Your Resolution: Have a healthier lifestyle.
Your Activity: A detox is the ultimate way to start a new year fresh and healthy. Highland Park resto and juice bar In The Raw offers a two-week rejuvenation program with a ready-to-go raw food and juice fast menu. Don’t be scared off by the idea of not eating solid food for a few days: ITR’s juices are surprisingly delicious—the Sweet Dreams juice is an ice cream-like combination of almond milk, vanilla, and cinnamon. If you’re still apprehensive, get your questions answered by an expert at one of ITR’s Detox Informational Classes before you begin. Upcoming seminars are February 1 and February 15 at 11 a.m. Call 847-432-9999 to reserve a space.
Your Tool: Rejuvenation Detox Package, In The Raw ($625). 483 Central Ave., Highland Park, 847-432-9999
Your Resolution: Spend more time with loved ones.
Your Activity: Bundle up and venture outside with the family on winter weekends. Visit Navy Pier’s Gateway Park January 26 (11 a.m.-4 p.m.) and cast your vote for the winner in the professional snow sculpting competition, ice skate at Millennium Park, or go sledding in Lincoln Park. After being out in the cold, come home for hot cocoa and board games by the fire. We love oversized, rustic-style games that look ultra-chic in a den or office, even when not in use.
Your Tool: Vintage Giant Deluxe Scrabble, Restoration Hardware ($220). 938 W. North Ave., 312-475-9116
Your Resolution: Learn to cook.
Your Activity: Being a city full of foodies, Chicago is the perfect place to learn to cook. Our go-to for culinary knowledge is The Chopping Block (Merchandise Plaza, Ste. 107, 312-644-6360) for its accessible downtown location and convenient after-work class schedule. No matter if you’re an amateur or a pro, there is a class for you, from French baking, to couples cooking, to knife skills.
Your Tool: Smart Tools for iPad Set with Bluetooth speaker, kitchen stand, and screen shield, Williams-Sonoma ($200). 900 N. Michigan Ave., 312-587-8080
Your Resolution: Travel.
Your Activity: Though it seems like an important resolution to work harder, taking time off is key, too. Since traveling can ironically be stressful, we suggest Jet Purple, a part of Public Charters, Inc. (877-359-7595). Skip the hassle of airport travel and fly out of private terminals at Midway Airport on a schedule that works for you. The charter service flies a number of places, but if you’re looking for a quick getaway this winter or spring, head to Manistee, Michigan, one of the charter’s other hubs. Manistee is a lakeside town that has all the quiet Chicago lacks—but also plenty of golf, nature reserves, beaches, and activities.
Your Tool: LM Cuir Wheeled Suitcase, Longchamp ($1,960). Nordstrom, 55 E. Grand Ave., 312-464-1515
Your Resolution: Get in shape.
Your Activity: There are hundreds of gyms, studios, and workout classes available in the city, and more are opening all the time. But we keep coming back to Flywheel, the spin studio that opened in the Gold Coast about a year ago. Flywheel is more than just spinning—the dark, stadium-seating-style studio is a greenhouse of energy as the instructor leads you through an upbeat workout that includes arm weights and competing with other bikers. Find a schedule of classes and reserve a bike at chicago.flywheelsports.com.
Your Tool: Custom Flywheel Cycling Shoes designed by cyclist Louis Garneau ($125). 710 N. State St., 312-624-8485
