Things I love ...

Yael Alkalay, founder of Red Flower

Anyone who has smelled one of Red Flower’s sensual scents and laid their eyes on the eco-friendly, stylish candles topped with dried flowers and herbs knows founder Yael Alkalay has good taste. The NYC-based bohemian tells us what else she’s into.

1. To ease my mind, I head to the Mayflower Inn’s spa house in Connecticut. Lisa Hedley’s programming at the spa is so brilliant that even a two-day getaway feels like a real escape. I always come back restored and refreshed. www.mayflowerinn.com

2. On my current reading list are “The Orientalist” and “Nature’s Operating Instructions.” “The Orientalist” takes place in such an intense time in history that I can’t put it down. I am also endlessly drawn to reading about the environment and ways of using the knowledge presented in nature as a guide to keep things moving forward and balanced. $13; $11, www.amazon.com

3. If Alex Auder (yoga instructor in the West Village) didn’t exist, I wouldn’t be able to live in New York — she is that good!

4. If it weren’t for Nolita, my New York City experience wouldn’t be the same. With its quiet little streets, unique shops, friendly people and amazing food, I am able to find almost everything I need within a few blocks.

5. My gray Prius takes some (but not all) of the guilt out of driving up and down the West Side Highway. www.toyota.com

6. My instant pick-me-up. Not only does Yerba Mate tea help me focus, but also reminds me of my family back in Argentina. $6-$9, www.ecoteas.com

7. There’s something special about the view of the city on the fifth floor of the New Museum. It’s priceless – almost better than the art! www.newmuseum.org

8. I have used every scrub on the market and there is nothing that leaves my skin smelling and feeling better than this. What makes it different is the bamboo – it heats the skin while exfoliating, making it the perfect prep for swimsuit weather. Japan Ohana Gingergrass Scrub, $62, www.redflower.com

9. When I need some green inspiration, I turn to my favorite Web site, www.deepgreen
living.com. It always gives me the most insightful, non-dogmatic and applicable advice.

10. Not only does the Miele washer and dryer save energy and water, but it actually does a better job at washing my clothes. I couldn’t live without it. www.miele.com

SHELLY STEFFEE
Beach Bag in Mineral Blue and White, $150 www.shellysteffee.com

Not just a cute bag
Whether you’re heading out to the beach or lunching in the park, this bag is designed to make your summer run smoother.

Shelly Steffee’s striped bag reminds us of lounging poolside in Saint Tropez, but wait! The multi-functional sac also folds out into the perfect picnic mat. METRO

TINA CHADHA/METRO