Dr. Jessica Trice’s Guide to Turning WVC Vegas Downtime Into Me Time

WVC Vegas is known for packed schedules, nonstop CE sessions, and exhibit hall marathons. But for working mom Dr. Jessica Trice, Co-founder of Chicago’s premier veterinary clinic Vetique and Vet Candy’s WVC Vegas 2026 ambassador, the conference is also a chance to hit pause and recharge.

“I know the conference can feel like a sprint,” Dr. Trice says. “But if you don’t take even a little time for yourself, you’ll run out of steam fast.”

Trice’s philosophy is simple: downtime doesn’t have to mean wasted time. Instead, it can be an opportunity to reset, refresh, and return to sessions energized.

Start With a Spa or Wellness Break

For Trice, spa time is non-negotiable. Whether it’s a massage, facial, or even just a steam room session, she believes these small indulgences make a big difference.

“Even twenty minutes in a quiet space can completely change your day,” she says.

Vegas offers options for every budget and style. From luxury resort spas along the Strip to boutique wellness centers off the beaten path, Trice recommends booking early to secure a spot between sessions.

Mindful Moments Between CE Sessions

Trice also emphasizes micro-breaks. She likes to find quiet corners or lounges where she can journal, meditate, or simply breathe.

“I bring a small notebook with me,” she says. “Even five minutes of writing down thoughts or goals helps me reset before jumping into the next session.”

Some attendees even schedule short yoga or meditation classes offered through the conference or nearby studios. Trice says these can be a great way to stretch, recharge, and meet other professionals looking for the same “me time.”

Eating Well to Fuel Your Day

Downtime also includes food, and Trice stresses that eating well is a big part of conference self-care. She encourages attendees to eat mindfully, before they are starving, choosing healthy, filling foods to keep energy levels steady.

“If you wait until you’re ravenous, it’s harder to make good choices,” she says. “I try to eat something nourishing as soon as I start to feel hungry, even if it’s just a snack.”

Trice recommends packing your own snacks, especially options that provide protein and fiber to keep you satisfied between meals. Nuts, granola bars, fruit, and yogurt bars are staples for her during long conference days.

“A good snack can feel like a mini recharge and stop you from hitting the vending machine out of desperation,” she says.

When sitting down for a proper meal, she looks for foods that leave her feeling energized rather than heavy or sluggish. Salad bowls with protein, wraps, and balanced meals are her go-to choices.

Evening Rituals for Recovery

After a full day of WVC sessions and exhibit hall explorations, Trice recommends closing the day with activities that soothe the mind and body.

“Evening walks, a little stretching in your room, or reading something unrelated to work makes a huge difference,” she says. “It’s amazing how small routines can keep your energy up for the next day.”

She also notes that Vegas itself offers unique ways to decompress. Quiet lounges, rooftop bars with scenic views, or even simply people-watching along the Strip can be surprisingly restorative.

Why Me Time Matters at Conferences

For Dr. Trice, taking time for herself is not a luxury, it’s part of conference success.

“If you go non-stop, you’ll miss the things that actually matter — both in learning and connecting with others,” she says. “Me time is what keeps you present, engaged, and energized.”

Her advice for first-time attendees or veterans alike is clear: schedule your downtime as intentionally as your sessions, eat well, snack wisely, and take a few minutes to breathe.

“You’ll leave Vegas not just full of knowledge, but feeling refreshed enough to actually use it,” she says.