Whether you’re overdosing on family time or just trying to look fresh for the big day, there’s no reason not to treat yo’ self when you’re in the Triangle for a wedding. Take a friend, a non-chatty relative, or just a great book.

Bella Trio Day Spa & Salon

5826 Fayetteville Road, Durham

bellatrio.com

The only thing better than relieving stress via a shopping spree is following up on said shopping spree with a trip to the spa. Luckily, Bella Trio Day Spa & Salon is just around the corner from Southpoint Mall. Take a minute in the Norwegian wet/dry sauna before getting one of the many face and body treatments available. Follow up with a mani/pedi or hair treatment before hitting cocktail hour.

Frankie’s Fun Park

11190 Fun Park Drive, Raleigh

frankiesfunpark.com/raleigh

Work out wedding-day jittersor just distract yourself for an afternoonwith Go Karts, laser tag, bumper boats, and plenty of arcade games. Just don’t forget you have someplace important to be.

Global Breath

119 West Main Street, #300, Durham

globalbreath.org

Step into one of the studio’s daily yoga classes or wellness workshops. Or, if you just want some peace and quiet, check out one of the evenings of mindfulness and weekly meditation sessions.

Honeysuckle Tea House

8871 Conservation Grove Road, Chapel Hill

honeysuckleteahouse.com

Spend a weather-worthy day “in the country” with a cup of soothing tea, surrounded by a garden of herbs, flowers, and teas.

Merritt’s Pasture

Morgan Creek Trail, Chapel Hill

Take a relaxing walk around Merritt’s Pasture and just take in your surroundings. No thinking about all the to-dos. Be sure to sit for a moment at the top of the hill under the big oak tree.

Runologie

401B Hillsborough Street, Raleigh

runologieraleigh.com

When you’re looking for an endorphin high to combat wedding stressors, check out Runologie’s group runs. If you go on a vendor day, you get to try on a pair of luxury running shoes before hitting the pavement for a test run.

Videri Chocolate Factory

327 West Davie Street, #100, Raleigh

viderichocolatefactory.com

If endorphins aren’t enough, there’s always chocolate-induced dopamine for your brain. Take a tour in the historic Raleigh Depot building, which is now Videri Chocolate Factory. See how chocolate is made and admire the industrial architecture before enjoying a coffee and some chocolate on the outdoor patio.

Sarah Willets

This article appeared in print with the headline “Chill Out.”