You need a staycation

Staycations are crucial for wellness. Your calendar has only so many days and you can only work so much overtime. It's vital for a quick reset button in times of burnout. When you've been grinding at work or parenting at wits end, a break isn't just desired, it's necessary.

That doesn't mean you need to travel far. For Mariah and I, our day trips are usually 30 miles north to Ojai and staycations at the incredible The Emerald Iguana Inn. The Emerald Iguana captures the very essence of what a local getaway actually means.

A staycation has to fit the bill on certain things: Something local. Something sweet. Something relaxing that doesn't require a plane ticket.

The Emerald Iguana Inn is tucked away in Ojai, just off the main street and is perfectly located in what seriously feels like its own world.

That's my favorite part. You're in the city, but you'd never think so. Not with all the beautiful trees and peace and quiet.

The Inn has several individual suites that suit the needs of various sized parties. Ideally, this is a romantic getaway so smaller parties are going to be super happy when they see that each suite is chock full of amenities.

The handcrafted artwork and custom architecture alone is enough to wow fans of art and originality. That's all thanks to Mark Whitman, the architect and owner of the Iguana Inn.

The jacuzzi is calming. Feels private and spacious at the same time. The pool is open and covered by its own canopy of trees. Usually the space that Mariah spends during the day under the Ojai sun. Again, it's like its own woodland realm sort of thing. And that's not including the lush pathways that circle around the suites. Private sidewalks and lighted stones give you the impression of a mythical jungle village at night.

The world felt like it was on pause. The other guests were chill and nice. You had that vibe of a cool autumn evening. Some people were cooking Italian food in their kitchenettes. The Edison bulbs across the greenery with the smell of garlic in the pink sky was a feeling I can't get anywhere else.

Talk about a reset. Just a night or two is all it takes.

If you're in Southern California, I highly recommend you check it out. Ojai. It's honestly worth a 2 hour drive from any direction. Because it hits all the high points for what makes a staycation the perfect balance of escape and relaxation.