Had a stressful week? We hear you. Life can get hectic, and it's times like these when you might need a little "me time" to relax + reflect. Stress negatively affects your health in multiple ways, so it's essential to find time to be active and get those endorphins flowing.

So, whether it's connecting with nature and gazing up at the stars, or practicing your deep breathing techniques at yoga, we've found some fun and exciting ways to unwind in the Soda City.
🥾 Hike and learn

On Saturday, the City of Cayce is hosting a 2.5-mile hike + history tour deep into the woods to the site of Fort Congaree, constructed in 1718. Over the past 120 centuries, the area just outside of downtown Columbia has been home to Native American tribes + Civil War soldiers, and before that, mastodons and mammoths.

🔭 Look at the stars

Look how they shine for you every Monday evening at the Melton Memorial Observatory at UofSC. The observatory is open to the public for you to get an up-close look at the Moon, Orion Nebula, and various galaxies.

Stargazing at the Melton Observatory | Every Monday (weather permitting) | 9-11 p.m. | Melton Observatory | Free

Pro tip — To experience the outdoors and explore the celestial above, take a drive out to Lake Murray, which boasts a darkness rating of 6 out of 10.

🐐Yoga on the farm

Find your zen with slow movements and deep breathing while connecting with nature. We're talking goat yoga. No, not yoga with Dawn Staley, but yoga with the kids at Fox Hideaway Farm. Classes are available to all levels of yogis + beginners are welcome.