Heading into 2026, many people have most likely made resolutions or set goals to get healthy, whether it be improving diet, being more active or losing weight. Cullman is blessed to have many local health and wellness resources.
We talked to Molly Hardin, owner of The Corner Soak and Spa, and asked, as we head into a new year, what are some realistic wellness goals you believe people should consider?
“Slow down,” she answered. “We’ve become so accustomed to filling every minute of our day that we leave little room for rest or reflection. When our schedules overflow, the first things we sacrifice are often the most important — our personal well-being, our relationships and quality time with our children.
She continued, “A realistic wellness goal for the new year is to create space. Say no to the unnecessary so you can say yes to what truly matters. Prioritize your health, nurture your marriage and be fully present with your family. True wellness isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing what matters most, with intention and balance.”
Hardin said self-care plays a crucial role in achieving and maintaining overall health and wellness goals.
“It’s the foundation that supports physical, mental and emotional balance. Regular self-care habits like getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly help maintain energy levels and reduce the risk of illness,” she explained. “Taking time for self-care activities helps reduce stress and prevent burnout. It also reinforces positive self-worth. When you treat yourself with compassion and respect, you’re more motivated to maintain healthy behaviors long-term instead of pursuing short-term fixes. When your body and mind are cared for, you can focus better and make more mindful decisions, both of which are essential for staying on track with wellness goals.”
We also asked Hardin her advice about treatments for people who have specific goals, like reducing stress or improving sleep.
“That's a great question — and one that fits perfectly with the mission of our spa. For guests whose primary goals are reducing stress or improving sleep, the focus should be on treatments that calm the nervous system, ease muscle tension and promote deep relaxation. We have packages where we can combine many of these treatments to give you a full day focused on relaxation and stress reduction.”
Hardin recommended the following:
“Swedish Massage: Why it works: Long, gentle strokes help lower cortisol levels and increase serotonin and dopamine — natural mood stabilizers.
“Hot Stone Massage: Why it works: The warmth of the stones relaxes tight muscles and improves circulation, which helps the body release tension more deeply.
“Infrared Sauna: Why it works: Raising the body temperature and then cooling down naturally promotes melatonin release — helping the body prepare for sleep.
“Magnesium-Infused Sweet Escape Mineral Bath Soaks: Why it works: All the ingredients in our Sweet Escape soak are known to relax muscles and calm the nervous system, making them perfect for tension and insomnia relief.
“Getting a facial at our spa does much more than just improve the skin. It activates the body’s relaxation response. It relieves physical tension. It encourages mindfulness and stillness and boosts regulating hormones. A facial is far more than skincare — it’s whole-body care. It calms the mind, relaxes the body and helps you drift into a deeper, more peaceful night’s sleep.”
How about if someone’s goal is more aesthetic. For example, they want to restore their skin or rejuvenate after childbirth?
“For someone who is looking to restore their skin we would recommend booking a consultation with one of our skin experts to get started with a home regimen. Then take the journey of more restorative treatments like IPL laser and microneedling to help correct and prevent,” said Hardin. “For those looking to rejuvenate after children, EmpowerRF is life changing. It is a new approach to pelvic floor therapy and can enhance and tighten damaged tissue.”
The Corner Soak and Spa offers a variety of restorative experiences perfect for those kicking off a year full of health and wellness goals.
“We offer massage therapy, customized facials, mineral bath soaks and sauna in bundles,” Hardin said. “Regular self-care isn’t a luxury — it’s a healthy routine. Receiving a massage and facial each month helps maintain balance in both body and mind, while monthly sauna sessions and mineral soaks support the body’s natural detoxification process. These practices work together to help you feel refreshed, renewed and ready to perform at your best.”
The Corner Soak and Spa is located at 501 Third St. SW in Cullman. Find it online at thecornersoakandspa.com.