A city of 8 million people. More come every day to visit. How is it that in the largest city in America you are bound to run into the one person you don't want to see (whether it be ex-spouse or ex-friend)? Whether you live in "the City" or have come here to EXplore, here are some places you may want to check out.
When you want to hide and cry, LINCOLN PLAZA CINEMAS (1886 Broadway (212) 757-2280) usually has at least one good tear-jerker playing. The movie house primarily shows independent and foreign films and during weekdays caters to the retired crowd – this may be the perfect time for you to sneak in and avoid seeing anyone you know. If you prefer to be in EXile outdoors, go to the TUDOR CITY GREENS (on Tudor City Place between 40th & 42nd Street). These parks are just gorgeous and the exclusivity of Tudor City's location allows for privacy just steps away from the United Nations. Other great parks for an in-city getaway include the CLINTON COMMUNITY GARDEN (keys are available for area residents and employees – if someone with a key is there, they will let you in! Open during daylight hours at 48th Street between 10th & 11th Avenues) and the HARLEM MEER section of Central Park (5th Avenue from 106th to 110th Streets) where you can fish in the summer and skate in the winter.
If you need to work out anger, stress or frustration on something other than your home, kids or pet, head out to beat up on some clay. MUD, SWEAT & TEARS (654 10th Avenue (212) 974-9121 Hours vary) offers pottery classes quarterly from absolute beginner to studio sessions for master potters. The majority of work done here is wheel-thrown brown and white stoneware, glazed in onsite kilns. This is an open and welcoming community of amateur and professional artists who truly care for one another. A high percentage of potters here are women – don't be afraid to join the circle. You may find that you are able to clear your mind through creation, EXpressing yourself through brand-new pots (that you can break if it pleases you). For those involved in redecorating you new solo pad, pieces are for sale in the front of the studio 7 days a week.
Perhaps a more workout-oriented class is for you – dancers of all levels are welcome to drop into a class at BROADWAY DANCE CENTER (www.bwydance.com 221 West 57th Street, 5th Floor (2120 582-9304). Aspiring yogis should look into LAUGHING LOTUS (www.laughinglotus.com 59 West 19th Street, 3rd Floor (212) 414-2903) – complete with midnight yoga sessions.
Facing finances for the first time or looking for help? If your family has a financial advisor, EXorcise your right to be "in the know" and phone the company to request a conference call. For a program tailored to women, look into Citigroup's WOMEN AND COMPANY (www.womenandco.com or visit your nearest Citibank). Master classes are available in New York City with topics from Navigating Life's Transitions to Learn to Prevent Identity Theft.
