By Hillary Easom
You don’t need to know what a Hoosier is to get out an enjoy Indianapolis. (The definition is debatable anyhow!) There’s plenty to do in this city to get you through the various stages of EXdom, and you’ll come out feeling like a new woman.
While in EXile, head over to the Garfield Park Conservatory (2450 Shelby St.; 10 AM – 6 PM daily; admission free), where you can hide out among the tropical plants and sunken gardens. Downtown, take a walk around the calm Central Canal (between West and 10th Streets), or rent a paddleboat. You can also ride a bike or jog along the canal path to clear your thoughts. A visit to the nearby Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens (www.indyzoo.com; 1200 W. Washington St., 317-630-2001; 9 AM – 4 PM daily; $8 combined admission) will remind you that all beasts are not burdensome.
Complete the afternoon with high tea at the Canterbury Hotel (www.canterburyhotel.com; 123 S. Illinois St., 317-634-3000). Served every day from 4:00 to 5:30 PM, a pianist plays while you sip English tea and nibble on finger sandwiches and fresh-baked scones.
Yoga is hot in Indy, and there are numerous places to EXpress yourself with this craft. CitYoga (www.cityoga.biz; 936 Indiana Ave., 317-423-1730) offers a variety of yoga and pilates classes, as well as bellydancing. On the north side, try All People Yoga Center (www.allpeopleyoga.com; 1724 E. 86 St., 317-818-1800), whose stated mission is to uplift you “through the healing and transforming effects of yoga.” As its name suggests, the school is open to beginners through advanced students.
Feeling powerless? You might want to take a class with Impact of Indianapolis (317-252-9424). The group is affiliated with Model Mugging, a specialized women’s self-defense program, and focuses on empowering women in an emotionally safe environment.
If you’re looking for a personal retreat, Our Lady of Fatima Retreat House (www.archindy.org/fatima; 5353 E. 56 St., 317-545-7681) is a wonderful spot to EXorcise your spirituality. There are special programs just for women, as well as silent retreats and single-day events. Or grab a couple of friends and head out for a Girlfriends’ Getaway. Check out Girlfriend Getaway special rates at www.hccvb.org/GirlTime/girltime.html.
