For Kristina Romanova, CEO of Aman Essentials, wellness is born from contrast—a weaving between movement and stillness, ambition and restoration. Nowhere does that duality feel more pronounced than in the Big Apple. “New York holds a special place in my heart, perhaps the most special, because it is where everything began for me,” she says. “The city gives you an incredible sense of energy and confidence, reminding you that anything is possible if you put your mind to it.”
But as Romanova knows well, that same intensity can be depleting. “It also demands a lot and can easily wear you down, which is why it is so important to stay grounded and make space for recovery and reset.”
That philosophy is woven into her work at Aman Essentials, the lifestyle extension of Aman Resorts that brings the brand’s globally revered approach to wellness into everyday life. From skin care and fragrances to sportswear and luxury accessories, each offering is designed to support rituals of self-care that feel both elevated and restorative. A beauty and wellness expert herself, Romanova champions a more intentional kind of luxury—one rooted not in excess, but in presence. Here, she shares what her perfect wellness day in New York looks like.
Kristina Romanova’s Ideal Wellness Day in New York, Hour by Hour
8 a.m.: Start the day with a yoga class intertwined with breathwork.
9.30 a.m.: Skin-care routine. I use Essential Skin by Aman every morning and evening. It’s a simple yet effective six-step routine featuring Japanese-inspired ingredients designed to cleanse, tone and hydrate. Self-love starts with a consistent regimen.
10 a.m.: Breakfast on the Arva terrace. Arva draws inspiration from Italian family-style cooking, and they have incredible healthy options paired with the best view!
11 a.m.: A long walk in Central Park and some wellness shopping. I enjoy browsing for vitamins and beauty products at Madison Apothecary, which has a fantastic selection.
1 p.m.: A light lunch at Sant Ambroeus. They serve some of the best coffee in town, and I like to treat myself to their cookies.
4 p.m.: Midday, I fit in a 30-minute HIIT session. It helps clear my mind, energize my body and reset for the evening ahead.
4.30 p.m.: Banya at Aman. Set within one of the hotel’s private Spa Houses, the Banya feels more like a private residence than a public spa. You will embark on a journey of warmth, cooling plunge, stillness, movement and renewal. I can’t think of a better treatment that completely resets your body and mind.
6.30 p.m.: A 90-minute deep-tissue massage where you can choose an Aman body oil—Nourishing, Grounding or Purifying—based on your mood and preference. My favorite is Purifying, which contains moringa oil rich in vitamin C, arnica and kombu oil.
After a relaxing spa journey, I like to enjoy a light, healthy room service dinner. If going out is more appealing, Polo Bar by Ralph Lauren is a New York classic with a great ambiance. I also love the omakase at Nama in Aman, where Chef Takuma Yonemaru creates a multi-course menu using seasonal ingredients sourced that day. It’s a true gourmet treat.
