25 New Things To Try in 2025: Inspired by Nicole Irving
25 New Things to Try in 2025: Inspired by Nicole Irving of Wellness 360
25 Fresh Starts for 2025: New Year, New You in Gainesville! 🎉
The new year is here, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to embrace fresh starts and exciting new experiences. Inspired by Wellness 360
Magazine's "25 New Things to Try in 2025" by Nicole Irving, we've compiled a list of invigorating activities and how you can experience them right here in Gainesville!
**1. Journaling for Self-Discovery ✍️**
* **What it is:** Journaling is more than just diary entries; it's a powerful tool for self-reflection, processing emotions, and sparking creativity. ✨
* **Where to do it:** Find a cozy nook at a local coffee shop like **Maude's Classic Cafe** (https://maudes-cafe.square.site/) or **Curia on the Drag** (curiaonthedrag.com) ☕️ and let your thoughts flow.
* **Bonus:** Check out local bookstores like **Third House Books** (thirdhousebooks.com) 📚 and "The Lynx Books" for beautiful journals and inspiring writing prompts.
* **Extra Bonus:** Check out the Power Of The Pause Journal
by Marcella Scherer. The journal features prompts as a starting point for getting into the habit of mindful creativity.
**2. Meditation for Inner Peace 🧘**
* **What it is:** Meditation helps quiet the mind, reduce stress, and cultivate a sense of inner peace. 😌
* **Where to find it:**
* **UF Mindfulness** (https://www.ufmindfulness.org/) offers various meditation classes and workshops.
* **Gainesville Yoga Pod** (yogapodgainesville.com) incorporates meditation into their yoga practices.
* Explore the serene nature trails at **Paynes Prairie** (floridastateparks.org/PaynesPrairie) 🌳 for a peaceful meditation environment.
**3. Meal Prepping for Healthy Habits 🥗**
* **What it is:** Planning and preparing your meals in advance saves time, reduces stress, and promotes healthier eating. ⏰
* **Where to start:**
* **Ward's Supermarket** (https://wardsgainesville.com/) and **Publix** (http://www.publix.com) offer a wide selection of fresh produce and meal prepping essentials. 🥕🥦
* Find inspiration and recipes from local food bloggers and cooking classes at **Sur La Table** (surlatable.com). 👩🍳
* OR- Skip the planning and shopping altogether and get all the ingredients you need shipped directly to you. Green Chef
is my favorite option.
**4. Gardening for Growth 🌱**
* **What it is:** Gardening connects you with nature, provides fresh ingredients, and adds beauty to your surroundings. 🌻
* **Where to dig in:**
* **The Gainesville Community Garden** (gainesvillecommunitygarden.org) offers plots for rent and a supportive community of gardeners. 👨🌾
* **Kanapaha Botanical Gardens** (kanapaha.org) provides inspiration and education for aspiring gardeners.
* Start your own herb garden at home with supplies from **The Home Depot** (homedepot.com) or **Lowe's** (lowes.com). 🏡
**5. Calligraphy for Artistic Expression 🖋️**
* **What it is:** Calligraphy transforms handwriting into an elegant art form, adding a personal touch to cards, letters, and artwork. 💌
* **Where to learn:**
* **Peabody Calligraphy** (https://www.peabodycalligraphy.com/) occasionally offers calligraphy workshops.
* Find online tutorials and calligraphy supplies at **Michaels** (michaels.com) or **Hobby Lobby** (hobbylobby.com). 🎨
**6. Crossword Puzzles for Mental Agility 🧠**
* **What it is:** Crossword puzzles challenge your vocabulary, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. 🤔
* **Where to find them:**
* Pick up the daily newspaper from **The Gainesville Sun** (gainesville.com). 📰
* Explore a variety of puzzle books at local bookstores like **Books-A-Million** (booksamillion.com).
* Download crossword puzzle apps on your phone for on-the-go brain teasers. 📱
**7. Chess for Strategic Thinking ♟️**
* **What it is:** Chess is a classic game of strategy, requiring focus, planning, and the ability to anticipate your opponent's moves. 🎯
* **Where to play:**
* Join the **US Chess Federation: Gainesville Wednesday Night Rapid G/20** (https://new.uschess.org/gainesville-wednesday-night-rapid-g20) for friendly matches and tournaments.
* Visit local coffee shops or parks with chessboards, like **Depot Park** (depotpark.org). ☕
**8. Forest Bathing for Nature Therapy 🌲**
* **What it is:** Forest bathing, or *shinrin-yoku*, involves immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest to promote relaxation and well-being. 🌿
* **Where to immerse:**
* **San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park** (floridastateparks.org/SanFelascoHammock) offers miles of trails through lush forests. 🚶♀️
* **Hawthorne Trail** (floridastateparks.org/HawthorneTrail) provides a peaceful setting for a mindful walk.
* **Forest Bathing Buddy App** is your digital forest bathing guide. Immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of the forest.
**9. Red Light Therapy for Wellness 🔴**
* **What it is:** Red light therapy uses low-wavelength red light to potentially stimulate cell regeneration, reduce inflammation, and improve skin health. ✨
* **Where to try it:**
* **Club Synergie** (https://www.clubsynergie.com/red-light) offers red light therapy sessions.
* Research and consult with healthcare professionals to determine if red light therapy is right for you. 👩⚕️
**10. Cold Plunging for an Invigorating Boost ❄️**
* **What it is:** Cold plunging involves immersing yourself in cold water for a short period to potentially reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and enhance mood. 🥶
* **Where to take the plunge:**
* **The Florida Springs** (floridasprings.org) offer naturally cold, refreshing waters. Always practice caution and be aware of water temperatures. 🏊
* **The Remedy Wellness Center** has a Morozko Ice Bath which helps boost brain health, strengthen the immune system, enhances mitochondrial fuction, supports reproductive health, regulates the thyroid, and helps manage stress.
* Consider incorporating cold showers into your routine for a milder version of cold plunging. 🚿
**11. Pickleball for Social Fun 🏓**
* **What it is:** Pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, offering a fun and social activity for all ages and skill levels. 🤝
* **Where to play:**
* **Alachua County Sports & Events Center** (https://alachua-sports.com/pickleball/) organizes games and tournaments.
* **300 Club** is Gainesville's best kept secret since 1960 and has open pickle ball days. Call for more details.
* Many local parks and recreation centers have pickleball courts available.
**12. Box Breathing for Stress Reduction 🌬️**
* **What it is:** Box breathing is a simple yet effective breathing technique that can help calm the nervous system and reduce stress. 😌
* **Where to practice:** You can practice box breathing anywhere, anytime! Find a quiet space, sit comfortably, and follow the technique (inhale for 4 counts, hold for 4 counts, exhale for 4 counts, hold for 4 counts).
**13. Planking for Core Strength 💪**
* **What it is:** Planking is a bodyweight exercise that strengthens your core, improves stability, and engages multiple muscle groups.
* **Where to do it:** You can plank anywhere with a firm surface! Follow online tutorials for proper form and variations.
**14. Soap Making for Creative Crafting 🧼**
* **What it is:** Soap making allows you to create personalized soaps with natural ingredients and delightful scents. 🫧
* **Where to Buy:**
* Find online tutorials and DIY kits to start creating at home.
**15. Kombucha for Gut Health 🦠**
* **What it is:** Kombucha is a fermented tea that's rich in probiotics, which can promote gut health and boost the immune system. 👍
* **Where to find it:**
* **Mother Kombucha** (motherkombucha.com) offers a variety of flavors.
* Many grocery stores and health food stores carry a selection of kombucha brands.
**16. Poaching an Egg for Culinary Skills 🍳**
* **What it is:** Poaching an egg is a classic culinary technique that results in a perfectly cooked egg with a runny yolk. 😋
* **Where to learn:**
* Find online tutorials and recipes for mastering the art of poaching an egg. 👩🍳
* Impress your friends and family with your newfound breakfast skills.
**17. Lagree Fitness Class for a Full-Body Workout 🏋️♀️**
* **What it is:** Lagree Fitness is a high-intensity, low-impact workout that combines strength training, cardio, and Pilates principles.
* **Where to try it:**
* **LAH: Lagreeing At Home""
**18. Golf for a Relaxing Challenge 🏌️♀️**
* **What it is:** Golf is a sport that combines skill, strategy, and the enjoyment of the outdoors. ⛳
* **Where to play:**
* **Ironwood Golf Course** (https://www.ironwoodgolfcourse.org/)
* **PGA of America**
**19. Green Juice for a Nutritional Boost 🥬**
* **What it is:** Green juice is a blend of leafy greens and other fruits and vegetables, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. 🍏
* **Where to find it:**
* **Clean Juice** (cleanjuice.com) offers a variety of fresh-pressed green juices.
**20. Mental Rehearsal for Achieving Goals 🎯**
* **What it is:** Mental rehearsal involves visualizing yourself successfully completing a task or achieving a goal, which can improve performance and boost confidence. 💪
* **Where to practice:** Find a quiet space where you can focus and visualize your desired outcomes. 🧘♀️
**21. Paddle Boarding for Water Adventures 🏄**
* **What it is:** Paddle boarding is a fun way to explore waterways, enjoy nature, and get a full-body workout. 💦
* **Where to paddle:**
* **Lake Wauburg** (recsports.ufl.edu/lake-wauburg) offers paddle board rentals and a beautiful lake setting.
* **Anderson's Outdoor Adventures Santa Fe River** (https://www.aoafun.com/aoa) provides a scenic route for paddling.
**22. Pilates for Strength and Flexibility 🤸**
* **What it is:** Pilates focuses on core strength, flexibility, and body awareness through controlled movements.
* **Where to find it:**
* **Club Pilates Gainesville** (https://www.clubpilates.com/location/gainesville)
* **Gainesville Yoga Pod** (yogapodgainesville.com)
* **Pure Barre** (https://www.purebarre.com/location/gainesville-fl)
**23. Fishing for Tranquility 🎣**
* **What it is:** Fishing offers a relaxing escape in nature, a chance to connect with the environment, and the thrill of the catch. 🐟
* **Where to cast a line:**
* **Newnan's Lake** (floridastateparks.org/NewnansLake)
* **GNV Fishing** https://www.instagram.com/gnvfishing/
**24. Spin Class for an Energetic Workout 🚴♀️**
* **What it is:** Spin classes provide a high-energy, calorie-burning workout on stationary bikes, set to motivating music. 🎶
* **Where to ride:**
* **CycleBar Gainesville** (https://www.cyclebar.com/location/gainesville)
**25. Drying Herbs for Culinary and Aromatic Uses 🌿**
* **What it is:** Drying herbs preserves their flavor and aroma for use in cooking, teas, and potpourris. ☕
* **Where to start:**
* Grow your own herbs or purchase fresh herbs from the **Grove Street Farmers Market** or any other Farmers Market in Gainesville: https://fun4gatorkids.com/Shopping-and-Dining/Farmers-Markets/
* Learn drying techniques online or from experienced gardeners.
This year, embrace new experiences and discover all that Gainesville has to offer. Try something new, step out of your comfort zone, and create a fulfilling and memorable 2025! ✨
Looking for a place to stay while visiting beautiful Gainesville, FL? StayGainesville
has you covered. We have the largest curated collection of short-term rental properties- with options for every budget, location, and size needs.
BAMBUU Asian Eatery: Gainesville’s Go-To Spot for Flavor-Packed Bowls and Modern Vibes Gainesville’s dining scene just got a major upgrade with the arrival of BAMBUU Asian Eatery, a fast-casual fusion concept that’s already making waves across town. From build-your-own bowls to freshly prepared appetizers and a welcoming atmosphere, BAMBUU offers a delicious, modern take on classic Asian flavors—all served fast and made with care. Whether you’re craving comfort food with a twist or just need a healthy lunch option near campus or work, BAMBUU hits the spot. 🍜 What Is BAMBUU? BAMBUU Asian Eatery is a Florida-born concept that blends traditional Chinese, Japanese, and Korean cooking with a fresh, contemporary spin. It’s designed to deliver quick, high-quality meals built around customizable options and clean ingredients. Everything is made-to-order, and you’re in control—choose your base, mix in your favorite proteins or veggies, and top it off with scratch-made sauces. It’s a fun, casual experience that doesn’t compromise on flavor or freshness. 🌐 Visit BAMBUU Online 📍 Where to Find It The Gainesville location is right in the action at 3606 SW Archer Road , in the busy Butler Plaza area. That makes it super convenient for University of Florida students, Shands staff, and anyone shopping or running errands in the area. Whether you’re grabbing lunch between classes or picking up dinner on your way home, BAMBUU’s spot is easy to access and surrounded by plenty of parking. 🍱 The Menu: Build Your Bowl, Your Way One of the most appealing aspects of BAMBUU is its build-your-own bowl format . Whether you're vegetarian, gluten-free, or just picky (hey, no judgment!), there’s something here for everyone. Start with a base like: White rice Fried rice Lo mein noodles Fresh greens Then add your proteins and vegetables—options include: Grilled chicken Spicy beef Korean BBQ pork Basil shrimp Tofu (for a plant-based option) Their signature combos include: The Bambuu Bowl : Choose 2 bases + 3 proteins/veggies The Four Bowl : 2 bases + 2 toppings The Two Bowl : A single base + 1 topping—perfect for lighter appetites Every bowl comes to life with bold sauces like sweet soy glaze, creamy sesame, or spicy chili garlic. 🧾 Explore the Full Menu 🥠 Don’t Skip the Starters Before you even get to your bowl, BAMBUU’s appetizers deserve their own spotlight. They offer crave-worthy sides that are ideal for sharing (or hoarding for yourself). Top picks include: Cream Cheese Rangoon – Crispy and golden with a creamy, savory filling Veggie Spring Rolls – Light, crispy, and perfect with dipping sauce Whether you’re dining in or ordering out, these are the perfect sidekick to any bowl. 🧑🍳 Fast-Casual Done Right BAMBUU offers a quick and easy dining experience without sacrificing quality. Guests walk through the ordering line (similar to Chipotle), selecting bases, proteins, veggies, and sauces as they go. It’s efficient, friendly, and made right in front of you—so there’s no wondering what’s going into your food. The interior is clean and modern with just enough flair to feel fun and welcoming—whether you’re eating solo or with a group. 🎉 Hosting an Event? They Cater, Too BAMBUU also provides group catering , which is perfect for office luncheons, family parties, or student events. Catering trays are available in several sizes and include full meals with proteins, bases, sauces, and sides. They make it easy to customize a spread for any crowd—with the same bold flavors and fresh ingredients they’re known for in-store. 🥡 Order Catering via ezCater 💬 Community First: Giving Back in Gainesville Since opening, BAMBUU has made it a point to give back to the Gainesville community. They’ve hosted appreciation events with free meals for teachers, hospital staff, and first responders , showing their gratitude to those who make the city better every day. That kind of heart isn’t something you see every day in a fast-casual restaurant—and it’s one of the many reasons BAMBUU is earning loyal fans quickly. 🚀 Growing in Florida This is BAMBUU’s second location , following their successful debut in Vero Beach . Gainesville was selected as their next stop thanks to its diverse, energetic population and thriving food culture. Their vision doesn’t stop here—more locations are in the works, including one coming soon to Clermont, FL. 📍 See All BAMBUU Locations 🌟 What Customers Are Saying Reviews have been glowing so far. Customers love the bold flavors, the speedy service, and the freedom to create a meal that’s just right for them. One happy diner shared: “Fresh, flavorful, and fast. Exactly what Gainesville needed. The spicy sauce was amazing, and I’ll definitely be back for the cream cheese rangoons.” 🗣️ Read Reviews on Yelp 📦 Dine Your Way: In-House, Pickup, or Delivery You can enjoy BAMBUU however you like: Dine-in for a casual sit-down meal Takeout for lunch breaks or dinners on the go Curbside pickup for convenience Delivery through DoorDash, Grubhub, and Uber Eats Whether you’re relaxing at home or on the move, your next flavorful meal is just a few taps away. Final Bite: Why BAMBUU Deserves a Spot on Your Foodie Radar Gainesville’s restaurant scene is always growing, but BAMBUU brings something fresh and exciting to the table. With high-quality ingredients, a commitment to community, and a menu that’s endlessly customizable, this is more than just another rice bowl joint. It’s a place to connect, eat well, and feel good about your meal—every single time. 📍 Visit BAMBUU at 3606 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32608 🌐 Order Online or View Menu Looking for a place to stay while visiting the local Gainesville attractions? Look no further than Gainesville's locally owned vacation rental company, StayGainesville . Book directly on our site, or call us at 352-519-3994 for guidance. For homes and condos, StayGainesville has many options- large and small/ budget and luxury, and more. For a shorter stay, we have 2 beautiful historic Inns in downtown Gainesville. The Camellia Rose Inn and The Laurel Oak Inn - both have unique personalities and they both feel like a home away from home. Looking for more things to do in Gainesville? Visit our Things to Do link.
From garden blooms to craft brews and scenic bike rides, Gainesville is full of life this weekend. Whether you’re planning to explore or host, this is the perfect time to enjoy all that spring has to offer. And when you’re ready to rest or celebrate, The Laurel Oak Inn and The Camellia Rose Inn provide ideal settings to unwind in style.
