Maybe it’s because my birthday is in January (Capricorn vibes are high over here), or maybe it’s because I usually feel pretty good about the choices I made the year before — but I’ve never really subscribed to the whole “new year, new me” mentality.

I don’t feel the pressure of Dry January. I don’t feel the need to reinvent myself overnight. Instead, I opt for something much simpler — what I like to call a reset.

January is when I take inventory of the year behind me. I note what worked, what shifted, what no longer fits — and then I move on. No drama. No declarations. Just a quiet recalibration.

That said… we can all agree on one thing: After the four-month hustle (yes, I’m calling it four months) that is Back to School, Halloween, Harvest Festivals, Canadian Thanksgiving, American Thanksgiving, and Christmas (ahhhhhhh), January feels… long.

Long. Never-ending. A little boring, if we’re being honest.

Praise be to those of you who choose to layer deprivation on top of that with Dry January — but that isn’t me. I enjoy a good cocktail and I’m not apologizing for it.

What January does offer, though — especially with its cold, quiet, stretched-out days — is space. Space for wellness. Space to recharge. Space to reset the batteries and prepare for what’s next.

And my favorite way to do that? A really good spa day.

The Spa at Terranea

I’m based near Los Angeles, and I’ll be the first to admit — we are spoiled. Truly. Some of the most beautiful spa experiences in the world sit right in our backyard, and in January? They’re empty, cozy, unhurried, and just right.

The Spa at Terranea

First up — and closest to home for me — is The Spa at Terranea.

The terrace off a treatment room at The Spa, Terranea

Set along the cliffs of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Terranea feels worlds away despite being just south of LA. The spa itself is expansive and serene, with ocean-facing treatment rooms, outdoor soaking tubs, and relaxation areas that overlook the Pacific.

This is a truly world-class spa — and I say that having experienced many across the globe. The sweeping views, the sound of the ocean (especially in winter), and the calm, unforced luxury have the ability to transport you completely — even if you’re only there for the day.

My husband and I love to go together: a couples massage, time by the fire, a bottle of wine, and absolutely nowhere else to be. We’ll stay for a full eight hours, simply being. It’s heavenly.

Montage Laguna Beach

Another long-time favorite is The Spa at Montage Laguna Beach.

The main pool at The Montage, Laguna Beach

Cozy yet polished, with an excellent spa boutique (similar to Terranea) and every amenity you could ask for, this is one of those places that does comfort and refinement equally well. The oceanfront setting, warm interiors, and thoughtful service make it an easy, indulgent escape — especially in January when the pace is slower and the crowds are gone.

The adults only + spa pool at Montage Laguna

It’s the kind of spa day that feels indulgent without being overdone — relaxed, elevated, and deeply restorative. 

pre-massage spritz at the adults only /spa pool – Montage Laguna Beach

The Spa at Ojai Valley Inn

Third on my list — and only because of proximity — is The Spa at Ojai Valley Inn. And I say “only” because this is, without question, a world-class spa.

Biologique Recherche facial. If you know, you know. 

Ojai is magical. The property is grounding, calming, and somehow instantly familiar — like you’ve been going there your whole life, even if it’s your first visit. It smells good. It feels good. You just… exhale.

It’s hard to explain, but anyone who’s been knows exactly what I mean. If you haven’t, it’s absolutely worth the experience.

One important thing I’ll note: these spas — and wellness experiences — genuinely elevate the hotels and destinations they’re attached to.

I don’t particularly love staying overnight at any of the three spa resorts above, and I’d likely choose something else for a romantic getaway or staycation — but the spas themselves completely level them up. I’d consider all three wonderful, luxurious family resorts… and maybe that’s exactly why the spas had to be that good. 😉

And for the first time in my life, I’m taking my January reset in a slightly different direction.

I’ll be attending a wellness getaway at The Ranch Malibu — with a large group of women, many of whom I already know — and I’m genuinely excited. The Ranch is known for its structured, nature-forward approach to wellness: guided hikes, strength and Pilates-based movement, incredible plant-forward meals, and a setting that feels both grounding and restorative.

Hiking at The Ranch, Malibu 

It’s close to home, it’s just one night (a big win for me), and I’m walking into it with friends already there — which somehow makes the whole thing feel approachable instead of intimidating.

There will be lots of Pilates. I’ll be eating really good, clean food. And yes — I’ll also be pairing a crisp glass of Sancerre with my green juice. Balance, always.

It feels perfect in every way, and I’ll absolutely be sharing more here — so stay tuned.

Have a wonderful January.

I hope you find your perfect reset — whatever that looks like for you. ✨