How to STRESS LESS this Summer

Sail through the season with our handy guide to making the most out of summer.

By Marianne Dougherty

ummertime and the living is, well, stressful—vacation plans to finalize, activities to keep the kids occupied now that they’re out of school, getting in shape for pool season – you get the idea. Check out our tips for making the most out of those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer.

Build A Better Beach Bod

Whether the goal is to tighten and tone or shed those extra pounds you put on over the winter, Life Time Athletic and Work , at GreenStreet or CITYCENTRE, can help you get ready for your closeup. The athletic club at both locations feature dedicated studios for group fitness, cycle, yoga and Pilates programming as well as a full menu of nutrition-focused meals at Life Cafe. Meanwhile, Orangetheory Fitness at Century Square in College Station offers month-to-month memberships to fit your lifestyle and fitness goals. The unique workouts from rowing to cardio to strength training are designed to deliver results fast.

We All Scream For Ice Cream

One way to cool off this summer is to try one of the artisanal ice cream cones at Lick Honest Ice Creams in Century Square and East River opening later this year. Each batch is hand-churned in-house with no artificial colors or flavors, high fructose corn syrup or preservatives. Make time to walk into the heavenly scents of fresh cooked waffle cones at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams at CITYCENTRE.

Get Ready For Sandal Season

There’s nothing quite like the Deluxe Spa Pedicure from Galleria Spa Salon Boutique, at Century Square in College Station. The 90-minute service includes the basics like filing, buffing and trimming but also a warm cleansing footbath, foot and leg massage, exfoliation, hydrating mask and a paraffin dip designed to leave feet feeling smooth and silky. Pure bliss. To really make sure you’re ready for Beach Season, make sure to try the multitude of services at the CITYCENTRE Beverly Hills Rejuvenation Center

Hit The Beach In Style

Why wear last year’s bathing suit when there are so many new styles to choose from? Grass Stains at Century Square in College Station will be stocking a small selection of bathing suits for the first time this summer. While you’re there, pick up a tote bag perfect for stashing everything from sunscreen to shades. Or check out the one-piece suits and crocheted bikini tops and bottoms at Urban Outfitters, CITYCENTRE.

Treat Yourself

Nothing beats a little retail therapy when you’re stressed out, but you don’t have to break the bank to indulge yourself. At Merge Boutique, Century Square, you’ll find trendy clothing and accessories all under $50, while Kendra Scott , both at Century Square and CITYCENTRE, has a selection of affordable earrings, bracelets, rings, necklaces, charms, and chains. You really can find anything your retail therapy is craving at CITYCENTRE with furniture finds at Z Gallerie or West Elm , fun accessories at Lily Rain , Brahmin , or Altar’d State, athletic gear at lululemon , Nike, or Epic- Cycles, and much more.

Summer In The City

Can’t get away this summer but long for a great escape? Plan a stay-cation at The Moran , CITYCENTRE, where modern style meets world-class service with amazing shopping, dining, and experience options just outside your door. Slow it down out of the city by booking a room at The George, the newest luxury hotel at Century Square in College Station. With a focus on gathering friends and family, the hotel includes large community lounge areas, an expansive porch, a craft cocktail bar, a restaurant and a wine bar.

Catch A Movie

With blockbuster season upon us, there’s no better place to catch a flick when the kids are driving you crazy than Star Cinema Grill at Century Square. The dine-in movie theater not only offers first-run film releases but also an extensive menu and a full-service bar with a wide selection of beer, wine, and spirits.

Head Inside To Beat The Heat

For family fun, get out of the heat and into the air conditioning at Bowl & Barrel at CITYCENTRE or 810 Billiards & Bowling at Green Street

Slow Things Down

The mission at Sweet Paris Creperie & Café in Century Square and CITYCENTRE is to usher guests away from their daily hustle and bustle and transport them to a unique and delectable dining experience, no passport needed. After tasting many versions of “la crêpe” around the world, from street carts to fine restaurants, the owners just knew they had to bring the international staple home.

Give Mom A Break

Too hot to cook? Why not take the whole family to kid-friendly Hopdoddy Burger Bar at Century Square in College Station or CITYCENTRE in Houston? The hand-cut fries doused in chili queso are to die for, but the sweet shakes—we’re looking at you, Oreo Cookies ‘N Cream—are not to be missed.