Health Beauty Lifestyle Yoga Spa · years, Dr. Davis is experienced and trained in traditional and non-traditional fields of medicine. She draws from both Western and Eastern methods

Yoga & SpaWinter 2015

Health • Beauty • Lifestyle

BURN 10001 hour to burn 1,000 calories

New Year – New You50+ Resources to Reach Your Goals

HypnosisChange Your Mind -Change Your Habits

Essential Oilsfor Health, Skincare

& Yoga

Our 6th Annual Living Fit Expo is Jan. 31. Get the full scoop on pages 6-7!

TAKE TO THE NEXT LEVEL

WHITE HOUSE JESUIT RETREAT

View the entire schedule atwww.whretreat.org

www.whretreat.org@whretreat

FOR MORE INFORMATION:314-416-6400 or 1-800-643-1000

2015 WOMEN’S RETREATSMarch 23-26, May 4-7, May 21-24,

July 23-26, September 14-17, October 5-8, October 19-22, November 12-15, November 16-19

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• Botox®, Dysport®, Belotero®, Perlane®, Restylane®, Juvederm® & Radiesse®

• Non-invasive Ultherapy® ultrasound skin tightening

222 South Woods Mill Road | Suite 475NChesterfield 63017 | On the campus of St. Luke’s Hospital

Also offering Friday and Saturday appointment times

www.MidAmericaSkin.com

Joseph A. Muccini, MDBoard-Certified DermatologistMember of AAD, ASDS, AMA

EXPERT TREATMENTof medical and cosmetic

skin conditions

• Laser Therapy for Varicose Veins

• Laser treatments for skin texture, tightening and wrinkle reduction

• Combination Therapies for Enhanced Cosmetic Results

Our physician-administered treatments include:

314.878.0600

Ring In The New Year With A New You!

Volume 6, Issue 1

Stacy [email protected]

Gayle Wilson RoseEditor and [email protected]

Emma FreyExecutive Assistant, Inside [email protected]

Judy DanteGraphic [email protected]

Advertising314-781-8822

Contributing WritersAlison AllmanAngie Kloeppel Becky Brittain, Ph.D.Bobbi VujevicBrandi O’KelleyBrian ByrdCaeli BalcerCandy Dietrich-GanzChristie VatterottConnie DavisDena MolenDonna LangenbacherDorothy TomasicDr. Tom GargiulaJennifer HojnackiJeremy BennettJill PaganoJoan KruegerJohn SeilerJulie LongyearKate UpshurKatie KellyKelsey JamesKim FrederickKristen WhiteKyle BurksLisa ChiodiniMarilyn EagenRebecca WiederkehrRoxanne KrummenacherSandy TomeySusan M. CrawfordTessa Greenspan

On the CoverLiane Levy, owner of BURN 1000 in Town & CountryPhotographer: Jon Koch of Jon Koch Photography314-497-8308Kochphotography.net

Yoga & Spa Magazine, LLC does not endorse any information contained in articles or advertisements and suggests consulting a health-care professional before beginning any therapy or medical treatment.

Yoga & Spa Magazine, LLC6590 Scanlan Avenue, Suite CSt. Louis, MO 63139Office 314-781-8822 Ext. 104Fax 314-781-8848www.YogaSpaMag.com

Copyright 2015

Publisher’s LetterYoga & Spamagazine

A New Year offers a clean slate for new ideas, goals and visions for our lives. As humans, we have a tremendous capacity for developing creative energies and power. The fabric of our lives results from using our creative powers to manifest our dreams. The axiom that our thoughts create reality rings true. As author Norman Vincent Peale, the father of positive thinking, so rightly reflected long ago, “Change your thoughts and you change your world.”

Our choice of daily lenses has a powerful role as well. If we think and feel lack, we are lacking. If we are thinking and feeling abundantly, we live in abundance. Perception rules.

Developing a 2015 wish list will help us create the year ahead. Setting goals for the coming 12 months, putting our desires and wishes in writing and/or placing images on a vision board makes them more real. This simple practice enables our creative forces to focus on what we desire. A regular yoga practice is another way of tapping into creative powers. Meditation, running, love or nearly any activity we are trying to master can have a similar effect. Our New Year wish lists and vision boards are actions that can move us closer to our dreams.

A suggestion for an easy and fun second step toward our dreams is taking time on Saturday January 31, to attend the sixth annual Yoga & Spa Magazine Living Fit Expo at Plaza Frontenac. (Details on pages 6 and 7.) With more than 50 vendors at your service to help meet your 2015 health and beauty goals, you don’t want to miss this opportunity to be inspired and connect with these powerful resources. The expo entrance is free and giveaways will be abundant, with more than $10,000 in beauty and wellness prizes.

If one of your 2015 wish list items is to travel more, make certain you’re at the expo’s 1p.m. fashion show for a chance to win a luxury resort and spa trip for two to Costa Baja, Mexico. A drawing for a men’s BMW carbon racing bike will also happen during 1pm. You must be present to win, and be registered to enter before 1pm. Proceeds from each $10 bike giveaway entry ticket will go to the Missouri Baptist Breast Health Center.

May 2015 be your year for abundant health, wealth, happiness and fulfillment.

Namaste,

Make Your 2015 Wish List

Contents Winter 2015

30 BURN 1000 - The Evolution of Interval Training

6 Annual Living Fit Expo at Plaza Frontenac 8 Intuitive Connections 9 Comfort Shoe Specialists10 Our Bodies Know11 Menopause Options12 Hypnosis - Open Yourself to Change14 Health Insurance 10115 A Dental Stand-Out16 A More Elegant Life18 Reflections 201520 Aquarius Wellness - Sanctuary for the Senses21 The “Little Black Dress” of Skincare22 The Gift of Healing23 Let Go of Control24 A Total Health Strategy

25 BrickTop’s St. Louis

27 Introducing the Power Plate28 TheYin&YangofYoga&Crossfit29 Sleep Loss and Weight Loss32 Namaste - A New Kirkwood Yoga Studio

33 Blue Bird Yoga - Yoga Smiles35 The Awesome Gifts of Yoga36 A Women-Only Fitness Club 37 Essential Oils Enhance Yoga38 Moving into Self with Authentic Movement39 Shanti Yoga: The Power of Intention

40 Baja Resort Trip Giveaway42 Elsah and Green Tree Inn B&B45 Tooth Replacement Simplified46 Partnering for Better Health47 Ideal Oils for Your Skin Type48 Everything is Energy

49 Style: An Expression of Self 50 Be Gentle with Yourself51 Epigenetics, Forgiveness and Peace53 Choosing Kindness and Self-Love 54 In With the Old, In With the New55 Tessa’s Tips for a Healthy Lifestyle

58 Rod Stryker at Wanderlust Yoga Festival 40

10

32

Cover Story

Spa &Beauty

Restaurant Rave

Living Fit

Yoga

Spa & Beauty

Lifestyle

Y&SInterview

6 Yoga & Spa Magazine • Winter 2015

Living Fit Expo

Saturday, January 31, 201510am-3pm

Noon Keynote Speakers1pm Fashion Show & Giveaways

Vendor Space Available

For more information 314-781-8822 or www.YogaSpaMag.com

at Plaza Frontenac

Presented by:

magazine

Drawings During 1pm Fashion Show. MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN. Register to Win at www.yogaspamag.com/events. ALL proceeds from bicycle raffle go to Breast HealthCare Center at Missouri Baptist Medical Center.

CostaBaja in LaPaz, MexicoAirfare not included.

BMW M Bike Carbon Racer

Enter to Win a Spa Getaway or BMW Bicycle:

donated by St. Louis’ own

Autohaus

Sponsored in part by

Yoga & Spa Magazine • Winter 2015 7

Living Fit Expo

Saturday, January 31, 201510am-3pm

Noon Keynote Speakers1pm Fashion Show & Giveaways

Vendor Space Available

For more information 314-781-8822 or www.YogaSpaMag.com

at Plaza Frontenac

Presented by:

magazine

Drawings During 1pm Fashion Show. MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN. Register to Win at www.yogaspamag.com/events. ALL proceeds from bicycle raffle go to Breast HealthCare Center at Missouri Baptist Medical Center.

CostaBaja in LaPaz, MexicoAirfare not included.

BMW M Bike Carbon Racer

Enter to Win a Spa Getaway or BMW Bicycle:

donated by St. Louis’ own

Autohaus

Sponsored in part by

Living Fit Expo Saturday, January 31st, 10am-3pm at Plaza Frontenac Artistic Dentistry • Aquarius Wellness • Avalon 8 Wellness, LLC • Awaken Whole Life Center • Be Young Total Health

• Bikram Yoga St. Louis • Blissoma Skincare • BURN 1000 • Comfort Shoe Specialists • Center for Mind, Body & Spirit • Crossing Back to Health • E2 Fitness • Embody Your Greatness • The Energy School • Essential Connections •

Family and Cosmetic Dentistry • Gateway Crossfit Personal Training • The Green Tree Inn B&B • Go! Spa • Halcyon Spa, Salon and B&B • Harmony Healthcare • Health with Hope • Joan Krueger Hypnosis • Ladue Pharmacy •

Mid America Skin Health & Vitality Center • Missouri Baptist Breast Health Care Center • The Natural Treatment Center • Nathalie’s Restaurant/Overlook Farm • Pinot’s Palette • Practicing Yoga Studio • Pyramid Health Coaching •

Rodan + Fields Dermatologists • Salon Antebellum • Sacred Journey Enterprises • Samantha’s Other Place • Schopp Nutrition Clinic • Shanti Yoga • St. Louis Fitness & Wellness Group • Style Matters • Sumits Hot Yoga • Sol-Tan • Thrive Counseling LLC • Touch of Class Massage and Wellness Services • Ultimate Cycling • Valley Vinyasa Yoga Studio • White House Jesuit Retreat • Whole Foods Market • Windmill Chiropractic Wellness Center • Women’s Health Specialists

An Outstanding Speaker Line-up to Inspire and Educate All at no cost to you!

Dr. Amy K. Davis - Crossing Back to Health

Topic: Emotional Cleansing: When Your Mind Isn’t Right – Your Body Isn’t Right.

About: In medical practice for more than 25 years, Dr. Davis is experienced and trained in traditional and non-traditional fields of medicine. She draws from both Western and Eastern methods to create unique treatment approaches for her patients.

Dr. Teresa Knight - Women’s Health Specialists of St. Louis

Topic: Women’s Hormone Replacement Therapy and Aging About: Dr. Knight is a practicing Ob/Gyn and is CEO of Women’s Health Specialists of St. Louis. Dr. Knight is passionate about women’s health and enjoys opportunities to educate women about their bodies and hormonal changes.

Angie Kloeppel, Pharm. D - Ladue Pharmacy

Topic: Immunizations and Travel Vaccines — What’s Really Needed

About: Ms. Kloeppel is the lead pharmacist at Ladue Pharmacy, is a certified vaccine administrator, instructor of vaccine administration to pharmacists and is yellow fever certified.

Dr. Christine Salter - The Centre of Vibrant Health and Wellness

Topic: Lipo Light Weight Loss Program About: Dr. Salter, a Great Britain native, is a Naturopath and Osteopath. She offers a holistic approach to healthcare for broad audiences.

Dr. Tom Gargiula - Windmill Chiropractic Wellness Center

Topic: Three Secrets to Transforming Your Life Quality.

About: With more than two decades of Chiropractic expertise, Dr. G focuses his practice on family well-care.



A friend was excited to learn that Susan Cotter, a well-known intuitive/psychic would be stopping-in at The Center for Mind, Body & Spirit in University City. With limited openings for readings, she told me we simply had to make time to meet this woman who is so highly regarded in her field. I didn’t quite know what to expect, but decided to go with an open mind and be present to listen to whatever Susan had to say.

When I walked in the room where Susan was giving readings, I immediately felt a warm energy. She seemed very comfortable and that made me relax. Susan began my reading by suggesting it would be beneficial to see a chiropractor as my pelvic/lower back area needed adjustment. Interestingly, within two weeks of the reading, a physician told me of some medical issues in that same area. Susan also spoke specifically about a business my daughter recently started. She couldn’t have knowledge of the products my daughter sells, yet she offered helpful suggestions that were on-target and appreciated. We also discussed my son and his family. Susan immediately focused on his business and personal life.

I felt an easy connection and was drawn to Susan. Those feelings seemed reciprocal. About my personal life, Susan was once again spot-on with exactly where my significant other and I are in this stage of our lives.

Susan Cotter is a wise, compassionate, free-spirited and positive teacher with an intuitive spirit. I can recommend her without reservation and look forward to her St. Louis return.

Debora Zorensky is owner of The Center for Mind, Body & Spirit, a holistic wellness center resource that frequently hosts wholistic healers and intuitive guides. For more information, visit CenterForMindBodySpirit.com, stop in at 7649 Delmar Blvd. in University City or call 314-725-6767. See ad on this page.

Intuitive Connectionsby Kelsey James

Libbie Edwards • 503-880-0475www.libbie.thebiomatcompany.com

Experience The BioMat at The Center for Mind, Body & Spirit

• Diet & Nutrition

• Detoxification

• Massage • Acupuncture

• Chiropractic • Meditation

• Trasformational Breathwork

• Energy Therapy

• Gifts

(Health, Spiritual, Eco, Fun)

An integrated approach to healing and wellness.

Libbie Edwards • 503-880-0475www.libbie.thebiomatcompany.com

Experience The BioMat at The Center for Mind, Body & Spirit

• Diet & Nutrition

• Detoxification

• Massage • Acupuncture

• Chiropractic • Meditation

• Trasformational Breathwork

• Energy Therapy

• Gifts

(Health, Spiritual, Eco, Fun)

An integrated approach to healing and wellness.

Eliminate Excess Fat ...Without Surgery!

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Investing in your health with the physician super-vised Amazing LipoLight Body Sculpting Program only costs $2495, but for a limited time only, save $500 with our Yoga & Spa Living Fit Expo special. Pay a total of only $1995 and save $500!

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Comfy, healthy feet are possible when you rely on the experts at Comfort Shoe Specialists in Des Peres.

They match the perfect shoes to your feet after a personalized fitting. Their thorough evaluation of at least 34 measures and assessments ensure your comfort is optimal. Comfort Shoe Specialists provide extraordinary products and custom orthotics that alleviate pains, challenges and discomfort.

Your next steps could lead to a life of pain-free feet!

Ziera Xray in EggplantSizes: 34 (US 3) to 45 (US 14)Widths: Medium, Wide, Extra WideAlso in Black, Chocolate, Red, Pewter, Navy, and TaupeA ballerina with GUTS! “Go To Shoes” perform extraordinarily withall day comfort and support, this model is the most successful inZiera history since 1948! Ziera Allsorts Walking Shoes in RedSizes 34 (US 3) to 45 (US 14)Widths: Medium, Wide, and Extra WideAlso in Black, Khaki, Black/Slate/Pewter, Eggplant, and EspressoZiera’s Most Popular Shoe in North America in 2014 and still walking strong! Ziera Ophelia in Taupe PatentSizes 35 (US 4) to 44 (US 13)Widths: Wide and Extra WideAlso in Black, Black Patent, Red Patent, Emerald, and WhiteThese well-heeled pumps provide exceptional balance and comfort! NOTE: All these Ziera models have full length removable insolesto fit personal orthotics and allow for personalized, custom fitting.

Love Your Legs. Worship Your Feet! Body Got the BLUES? Start with your SHOES!

Comfort Shoe Specialists at 11693 Manchester Road in Des Peres. More information at ComfortShoe.com or by calling 314-822-3300.

10 Yoga & Spa Magazine • Winter 2015 Yoga & Spa Magazine • Spring 2013 11

In daily encounters, we often mindlessly ask those we meet, “how are you?” without truly expecting an answer. It’s vital to regularly pause and ask ourselves this question and truly listen to the answer. It’s easy to forget that pain, inflammation and swelling are important body messages and fundamental to the healing process. When these signals appear, we often respond by trying to make them disappear. Whether a sprained ankle, sunburn, car accident, sports injury or the flu, they all result in bodily reactions that are intentional and by design. Our bodies are made to create these symptoms because they are designed for self-healing.

When we turn an ankle, it naturally swells. The swelling signals the beginning of the healing process. The body sends additional blood to the injured area so there’s more oxygen and nutrients to speed healing. If we take an anti-inflammatory drug to decrease swelling and pain, we are slowing the healing process. The message that pain tells our brain is to slow down and stay off our feet. A pain-relieving pill turns down the volume of the body’s pain message. Then, we tend not to give our bodies what they need. We end up causing more damage and slowing healing.

We call it a healing process because the process is a series of actions and changes toward a desired result. It’s a gift to

Our Bodies Know ourselves to honor the time and our body’s restorative ability so we can heal from traumas. Symptoms are a way our bodies communicate with us. Instead of muffling them, next time, consider pausing and listening. For symptoms to diminish, we must search for their true underlying causes. Getting to the root cause of any health concern allows us to embrace health and not merely mask symptoms.

Our nervous systems control and coordinate every cell, organ, gland and tissue of our body. Clear communication between our nervous system and our body is essential to getting and staying healthy.

Our chiropractic specialty is finding and gently removing areas of interference in the nervous system. This interference, a subluxation, blocks the body’s ability to heal itself. Once the interference is removed, it is able to heal. In this New Year, let’s regularly check in with the messages our bodies send us and answer the question, “How am I feeling?”

Dr. Tom Gargiula is a doctor of chiropractic and owner of Windmill Chiropractic Wellness Center, located at 9717 Landmark Pkwy, Ste. 216, Sunset Hills. More information at WindmillChiropractic.com, call 314-849-4120. See ad on this page.

by Dr. Tom Gargiula

Call today for a free evaluation

*some restrictions apply*

9717 Landmark Parkway Drive #216St. Louis, MO 63127

(314) 849-4120www.windmillchiropractic.com

A St. Louis Chiropractor with a Bold Mission

“My goal is to help as many people as possible during my lifetime – especially children!”

says Dr. Gargiula.

Yoga & Spa Magazine • Winter 2015 11Yoga & Spa Magazine • Spring 2013 11

9832 Clayton RoadSt. Louis, MO 63124

314.993.4031

www.laduepharmacy.com

Shop Ladue Pharmacy

Gifts & FREE WrappingFashion Travel

Health & BeautyToys Galore

One Stop Shopping in Ladue

Menopause is as inevitable as the aging process and typically happens at the age of 51. How we manage it is a key differentiating point. It’s defined as the absence of menstrual periods for 12 months; It’s the body’s natural way of preventing pregnancy. This natural state can bring a host of symptoms, some of significant challenge. The years leading up to menopause, known as perimenopause, typically begin in the mid-40s when estrogen levels decline as much as 90 percent. This hormone reduction can lead to hot flashes, night sweats and sleep disturbances. Treating these symptoms is possible with both prescription and over-the-counter medications found at your local pharmacy. These medications come in many forms including tablets, capsules, creams, troches or lozenges and transdermal skin patches.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) advocates the use of hormone replacement therapy for women experiencing moderate to severe symptoms related to menopause after they are evaluated by their physician. Hormone replacement therapy includes estrogen and most often progestin, a form of the naturally occurring progesterone. The goal of hormone replacement therapy is to augment the body’s natural (but declining) hormone levels and to alleviate menopausal symptoms. In addition to easing symptoms, hormone replacement therapy can prevent osteoporosis in women.

Hormone replacement is not an indefinite process, but is typically used for as short a duration as possible based on severity, frequency and duration of symptoms. Along with prescription medications from your doctor, there are several over-the-counter options available at your local pharmacy including calcium plus soy supplements and black cohosh. It is important to contact your healthcare provider before considering or starting any supplements. Not all women are candidates for hormone therapy; a doctor evaluation is needed.

Your community pharmacist plays a vital role in your healthcare and is an excellent resource for menopausal information and more.

Angie Kloeppel, Pharm D., Ladue PharmacyKyle Burks, 2015 Pharm. D. candidate St. Louis College of PharmacySee ad on this page.

Options in Menopause Treatmentby Angie Kloeppel and Kyle Burks


How is filing like hypnosis?

This isn't an analogy question from a college entrance exam. It's a helpful way of understanding how behavior change through hypnosis works. For many, there's a kind of mystery surrounding hypnosis, especially regarding its use as therapy for enabling life changes. Let's unravel this mystery.

Our conscious minds contain our active thoughts. In contrast, our subconscious minds hold information that drives our behavior. Think of the subconscious as a big filing cabinet that holds records of all of our experiences. Our habits, behaviors, responses, reactions, memories and emotions are stored there. There is a file for everything about us.

Hypnosis is the process of communicating with the subconscious mind and accessing these files. Prior to a hypnosis session, your hypnotherapist asks specific questions about desired changes. This identifies the file from which you are currently working. Hypnosis gets the subconscious part of our minds to open with intention-- like opening a filing cabinet drawer so a new file can be added about how you want to function. For example, you may want to become a non-smoker, acquire different eating habits or be more confident. After a session focused on these changes, your mind has new information to begin to work from; there is no need to keep returning to and working from old information.

With hypnosis, no one can be made to do anything they don't want to do. For hypnosis to work, one must be willing to accept change because the conscious mind is still aware of what is going on. At all times, the client has complete power of selectivity. We react only to suggestions that are reasonable and pleasing.

Many individuals achieve their goals through guidance they receive from hypnosis.

Joan Krueger is a certified hypnotherapist with offices in Kirkwood and South County where she helps clients achieve positive life changes. More information at jfkhypnosis.com or by calling 314-962-7558. See ad on this page.

Opening Yourself to Change

by Joan Krueger

Where Friends Go! to Have Fun

11735 Manchester Rd., Des Peres, MO314-822-0772

www.gospagirl.com

Bring your Friends to Go!Spa for the Girl’s Time Out Package includes Spoiled Rotten Facials and Pedicures

for 2 with a box lunch, each service is 1 hour. $225

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Two Locations:#1 Ronnies Plaza

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St. Louis, MO 63126220 W. Argonne, Suite A

Kirkwood, MO 63122314-962-7558

10% OFFFirst Session

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Hypnosis:A Key To Change

CERTIFIED HYPNOTHERAPIST

• Smoking Cessation• Weight Loss• Stress Management• Sleep Disturbances and Insomnia• Pain Management• Fears and Phobias• Self Esteem• Depression

Specializing in Hypnotherapy

Joan Krueger

Hypnosis:A Key To Change



456 North New Ballas Road | Suite 386Creve Coeur 63141

314-292-7080 | www.whs-stl.com

Monday ~ Thursday ~ Friday: 9 to 5Tuesday ~ Wednesday 9 to 6

SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE.

Caring for your complete health care needs

is what distinguishes us in the health care community. We provide each individual patient with the most up-to-date health

information and we compliment our care with alternative and natural therapies including

nutritional testing, supplements and Bioidentical Hormones.

We focus on the quality of a women’s life and it is our commitment to each and every patient. Please call our office at 314-292-7080 for

an appointment.

All of our providers enjoy the opportunityto educate women about women’s health.

The most common question we hear at our office is not, “Is this going to hurt?” Rather, it’s “Will this service be covered by my insurance?” For many, the New Year brings health insurance plan changes and uncertainty about coverage, deductibles, co-insurance and more. Arming yourself with knowledge will empower you to get maximum benefits from your health plan. A valuable healthcare provider will not only be a wellness ally, but will also help you navigate insurance and payment challenges. Back to that most common question about what services are covered: This can be a confusing topic because of complex terminology. When a service is covered, that means your insurance company pays benefits for that service and your deductible, coinsurance or copay may apply. This does not mean that the cost is covered 100 percent or that you do not need to pay in addition to your insurance premium. A “covered” service and “no additional cost” are quite different.

If your premium and co-pays are rising, your deductible may be as well. There are many programs that can help you manage the cost implications. For example, health savings accounts (HSA), health reimbursement accounts (HRA) and government subsidies all help balance high deductibles. The deductible is the amount you pay for a covered service before your insurance will kick in. After you meet your deductible, your insurance will usually pay a coinsurance. This is the percentage set by your insurance company—the amount they’ve agreed to pay before you are responsible for the remainder.

Health Insurance 101

Most insurance companies pay 80 percent, leaving you to pay the remaining 20 percent, plus there’s an annual out-of-pocket maximum. The annual maximum considers the amounts you’ve paid in both deductibles and coinsurance. After you’ve reached the maximum, your insurance company pays covered amounts at 100 percent.

When you look for a healthcare provider, consider how they might work with patients in the exam room and in navigating insurance benefits. Some providers offer no-interest payment plans to patients who need assistance. Women’s Health Specialists of Saint Louis works with patients in matters of the body, but also with insurance and financial issues. Achieving affordable and accessible healthcare for all is something we can all feel good about any time of year.

Brandi O’Kelley is director of operations for Women’s Health Specialists at 456 N. New Ballas Rd, Suite 386, Creve Coeur. Call 314-292-7080 or visit WHS-STL.com for more information. See ad on left.

by Brandi O’Kelley


Spotlight on a Dental Stand-OutOur smiles say a lot about us. They reflect our mood, but are also barometers of our success in caring for our health. When it comes to selecting a dentist, there are many factors to consider beyond the common first question “Do they accept my insurance plan?” Let’s take a look at a local stand-out dental provider who brightens the smiles of many St. Louisans. With more than 30 years in dentistry, Dr. James Schmidt of Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is as solid and trustworthy as they come. He earned St. Louis Magazine’s notable accolade of “Best St. Louis Dentist” every year since 2010. Glowing reviews by patients reinforce this distinction. A recent testimonial from a loyal patient reads like this: “That day, you not only filled a cavity on my six-year-old and sealed some molars on my 13-year-old, you also nurtured my kids, brought them joy and gave them great stories to share that evening.”

Beyond outstanding patient care, the Family & Cosmetic Dentistry team in South

St. Louis offers the crème-de-la-crème of dental technology. (Gone are the days of tiny mirrors on skinny handles to enable you to glimpse your top back teeth.) Digital radiography and inter-oral cameras help patients understand the state of their oral health. And for the dental team, hi-tech equipment means they can customize treatment plans to suit the unique needs of every patient.

Whether a patient needs composite fillings, porcelain veneers, Cerac crowns and bridges, extractions, a root canal, dentures, implants, Invisalign orthodontics or sedation den-tistry, Family & Cosmetic Dentistry has what’s needed and can back it up with experience and stand-out, personalized care.

Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is located at 7809 Watson Rd. in South St. Louis. For more information, visit DrJamesSchmidtDDS.com or call 314-968-7979. See ad on this page.

Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

Dr. James L. Schmidt & Associates

7809 Watson Rd.

St. Louis, MO, 63119

314.968.7979

www.drjamesschmidtdds.com

$99 Whitening

Special


Women seem to have an intuition about things such as how pampering “me-time” can turn around a bad day, week or month. The challenge for most of us seems to be fitting it all in and prioritizing ourselves when we’re so often caring for others. Making time to visit the hair salon, nail salon and a massage therapist end up compounding our stress in the process.

Now, there’s one place that offers it all. A place to carve-out a quiet escape from the outside world. An oasis.

At Elegant Designs Day Spa, a wall of windows allows guests to watch turtles mosey by as they relax their feet in warm scented water. A chair massage melts their stress knots. A make-up touch-up treatment or full massage with chakra stones and pendants feels almost magical.

Besides regular hair services, including styling, color (ammonia-free and PPd free) and extensions, guests can indulge in facials, massages, pedicures, manicures, gel polish and waxing.

We’re a virtual mecca for beauty care products, too: Bioelements, Surface, GK hair, jane iredale, Tru, Aquage, opi, BY, Biofreeze, miracle oil, Jellua, flat irons, hair dryers and curling irons are just a few of the items you can pick-up when you visit. There are abundant gift items to tempt you as well.

Booking your “me-time” online can be your first step in relaxing. We’re a come-as-you-are kind of spa — no pretension or need to dress-up.

Come by for an hour. You may just find that once you embrace pampering yourself, you’ll find a way to stay for the day.

Candy Dietrich-Ganz is owner of Elegant Designs Day Spa at 15648 Manchester Rd. in Ellisville. More information and online booking at ElegantDesignsDaySpa.com, email [email protected] or call 636-227-1900.

A More Elegant Life

Organic Sunless Tan Boutiquewww.sol-stl.com314.459.3930By Appointment Only

Moving soon to Downtown Kirkwood!200 S Kirkwood Road, Suite 140, 63122

$5 off Organic Spray TanningNew Clients Only Expires May 1, 2015

Please call 314.459.3930 to make an appointment

We offer pre and post spray tan products! Soap, lotion, sunscreen, etc.

by Candy Dietrich-Ganz

R


Yoga & Spa’s Annual Living Fit ExpoPlaza Frontenac

Saturday, January 3110 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Please check with your medical insurance provider to verify your benefits and eligibility. Bring your insurance card, your physician’s name/phone number, and a fortm of identification with you to your appointment.

Call today to schedule your appointment!Call 314-996-5170 or 800-870-5731.

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A wise teacher recently said – “do not be afraid with what you see happening in the world. The negativity has to come to the Light to be healed.” As this New Year unfolds, we may find ourselves very distracted with the brokenness we see in our society, our city, our country, our world.

We can use this powerful moment to look deeply within at our own brokenness. Is what is going on outside of us in any way a reflection of what is going on inside of us? In this New Year let us focus our attention on healing ourselves from the inside out. Let us often take deep looks inside and ask ourselves “who am I?” Who am I in my deepest level of being? What thoughtforms are misguiding my habitual behavior? Is there any form of separateness or disconnectedness, or narrow-mindedness or self-centeredness or lack of compassion, reverence, or respect? The list can go on.

What a gift to ourselves to do this regular accountability check-up. Once the thought-forms are found, we can honor these as gifts on our path of learning as we go about healing them, consciously replacing them with healthy thoughtforms so we can live more fully in the way we desire. Also, in that process we will be doing work in helping to heal what is broken in society at large, healing one person at a time.

There is a tradition in Japan when someone breaks a piece of pottery to gather up every piece of broken pottery, even sweeping up the dust. It is taken to someone who repairs the pottery by gluing it together with a lacquer resin mixed with the powder of a precious metal so the filled-in cracks stand out making it a master piece worth more than it was before breakage. Afterwards, it sits in a place of honor.

This is a brilliant metaphor for our lives as well as for life going on around us. It is a way to heal the woundedness. We are all

wounded. Wounds can be necessary at times to bring forth the healing light from inside our beings. We often look at our failures and mistakes and focus on them instead of the beauty these experiences brought with them. With this metaphor in mind we can reframe each failure and mistake as learning, just like the precious metallic fillings on the pottery, making us even more beautiful from the inside out.

Each one of us has the power within to shape our response or reaction to every moment. Through this power we must embrace our own humanity. Only then, can we embrace each other’s humanity and honor each other’s goodness. It is here where we can celebrate our connectedness, our oneness.

Tools for healing:Consciously breathing, in and out, while focusing on your Light within, can assist in staying centered in the midst of chaos.

Imagine a consciousness of connectedness and healing, then while holding it for yourself, imagine sending that image out to the world.

Make a pact with yourself to regularly talk and connect with people who don’t look like you. Look for how we are the same rather than how we are different.

In conclusion, all healing starts and ends with us. We have to be the alchemist and mender of our own heart, letting our Light shine through, sharing it with others.

Rebecca Wiederkehr, LCSW assists people in releasing stuck trauma as well as supporting personal and spiritual growth within relationships with self and others. See ad in this issue to learn more, or call 314-822-4752.

by Rebecca Wiederkehr

A Reflection for 2015“When you are broken open you get to discover for the first time what is inside you.”

- Bryant McGill


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As children, we all loved seeing our reflection in a mirror. We smiled and made lots of silly faces. As adults, we behave quite differently with our reflection: we focus on things we wish we could change. Perhaps it's uneven skin tone, fine lines around our eyes, a drooping jaw line or double chin. If we do make a funny face in the mirror, it's likely a scowl, because we long for the tight, smooth, clear skin of our youth. There are ways to turn that frown upside down however, and here are two non-invasive, painless and effective facials that can turn back the clock with immediate benefit. Even better — with sustained use, these facials can provide dramatic and long-lasting results.

The AcuFacial is a non-surgical procedure that utilizes acupuncture to balance the body's energy system, re-educate and tone underlying facial muscles and promote collagen production beneath the skin. It treats root cause signs of aging by using the body's natural resources. Tiny sterilized needles are strategically inserted into various parts of the face. Though the idea may seem cringe-worthy, it is virtually painless with just small pricks when the small needles are inserted. The results of the AcuFacial are similar to Botox or Restylane, but without the risks or side effects. The procedure naturally increases collagen to fill lines around the eyes, lips and forehead. Facial muscles are lifted and toned. Complexions clear to an overall beautiful glow.

A second option, the Anti-Gravity Lift, works very well with the

A Smiling Reflection in 2015by Caeli Balcer

AcuFacial or on its own. This microcurrent facial delivers safe, painless, low-level electrical impulses to strategic locations under the skin. The impulses work in harmony with the natural bioelectrical currents of our bodies to trigger skin enhancement chemicals at a cellular level. Facial toning is achieved through the lengthening and shortening of facial muscles, essentially reprogramming muscle fibers back to their more youthful structures. The benefits include improvement of muscle tone in the face and neck, reduction and elimination of fine lines and wrinkles and improved facial circulation. The result is a firmer, healthier and more youthful-looking face.

Non-invasive, pain-free, and results-based facials can help you put your best face forward in the New Year. Rediscover your inner child, grab a mirror and smile!

Caeli Balcer, accredited esthetician at Aquarius Wellness, is a graduate of the Skin Institute and holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Missouri. Location: Aquarius Wellness Center for Healing Arts, Clayton Plaza West, 7750 Clayton Road, Suite 103, Richmond Heights. Visit aquariuswellness.com,email [email protected] or call 314-645-7643. See ad below.

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These images show client’s dramatic results from using Rodan + Fields' clinical skincare line.

by Kim Frederick

With every change of season comes new fashion. We’ve all succumbed to that “look of the moment” skirt or dress only to toss it aside after it is replaced by a new trend. Meanwhile, the tried-and-true classics in our closet, such as a little black dress, remain the wardrobe staples we can count on to help us look our best.

According to Drs. Katie Rodan and Kathy Fields, what most people don’t realize is, the same can be said about skincare. When it comes to real, natural-looking, and lasting results, the best solutions often come not from the latest skincare fad, but from clinically proven, time-tested ingredients backed by scientific discoveries that deliver. Think of ingredients, such as retinol, alpha-hydroxy acid, peptides, anti-oxidants and sunscreens, as a little black dress for your skin.

For many years, women believed they could do little or nothing about the state of their skin and the ravages of aging. Today, we now understand genetics account for just 20 percent of visible aging effects; Eighty percent reflects our habits and lifestyle. Great skin has more to do with how you treat it rather than what you’ve been given.

A cornerstone of any anti-aging routine is exfoliation. When you’re young, skin cells turn over every 28 to 30 days, giving skin a healthy-looking, fresh glow. Over time, this process of renewal slows considerably; by the time you’re 40, it can take more than 50 days for cell turn over. When dead cells don’t slough-off as rapidly, it leaves behind a dull skin tone. The dead cells can pack into your pores, making them look larger. This is why exfoliation is so important — it assists the natural shedding process.

When shopping for skin-care, look for classic products with clinically-proven results. While the “look of the moment” is here today, your best fashion accessory —your skin — needs to last a lifetime.

Kim Frederick is an independent consultant with Rodan + Fields. More information by calling 314-971-2273 or emailing Kim at [email protected].

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Your mammogramshouldn’t be either.Announcing the 3D mammogram. With 3D, our doctors can examine your breast tissue layer by layer, looking for cancer in a way never before possible — especially for women with dense breast tissue. Missouri Baptist’s Breast HealthCare Center is one of only a few hospitals in Missouri to offer 3D mammography. To schedule your 3D mammogram, call today: 314-996-5170.

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My first experience at White House Jesuit Retreat in the summer of 2004 was spectacular. God was with me. A dear friend invited me there and I said yes. God did the rest. The first anniversary of my son’s death loomed. I was in pain with a severely broken heart. Danny was only 22 and had just graduated from college. He was a radiant young man who loved life and was loved by all. He died from a heroin overdose — an addiction I did not know he had acquired. I was the one who found him and it changed my life forever. I thought my grief, anxiety and sadness would kill me. Instead, I cried almost daily for a year. My first White House Retreat was all women and led by a priest. With my profound sadness, I found it difficult to attend the optional conferences and instead spent my time in a small chapel in Monaghan Hall crying my heart out to Jesus and sharing my deep, profound sadness. I felt alone, empty and ill from daily crying. In my desperate state, I needed to know that Danny was okay. I begged God to let me know – to let me feel that Danny was alright and with Him. “Help me Lord,” I prayed. “Help me with my pain and sadness. Help me heal my heart. I miss him so much, God. Help me, God. Please.” The morning after I returned from the retreat, I awoke feeling different. I was at peace. The tears and sadness were gone. A miraculous healing happened; God healed my heart. That was 11 years ago. My relationship with and trust in God grows closer and deeper as I join Him in my annual retreat. When we say “yes” to spending time with Him, we cannot go wrong. If I’d not said yes to the retreat, I would not have healed.

For more information, visit WHRetreat.org or call 314-416-6400. See ad on inside front cover.

The Gift of Healingby Susan M. Crawford


It’s that time of year again: Winter seems to carry a lot of charm around the holidays, but that charm can fade quickly in the New Year into icy roads and bitter wind. Many people struggle more with feelings of sadness and dreariness as the weather gets colder and the days get shorter.

Seasons are not the only things we resist. We all experience thoughts and feelings that we want to push away. We have work meetings that we dread. We do anything to avoid feeling heart broken or rejected. One of our many responses to these aversions is trying to control or push away the negativity. This may be through immersing ourselves in work, distracting ourselves with entertainment, or numbing our pain with food, sex, or chemicals of some kind. Unfortunately, this approach doesn’t work. The pain always returns and may even increase.

Our attempts to control our experiences lead to tension and increased stress. A well-known quote from Carl Jung, “What you resist, persists” rings true. Our stress, anger, sadness, and heartache are all forms of fear. When we try to push them away, we only feed them more fear and make them

stronger. Fortunately, there is another way.

A dramatic mental shift happens when we bring our mindful awareness to our experience. Mindfulness is simply the moment-to-moment non-judgmental awareness of what is happening, without attempting to control or push away anything. It helps develop an open and ready heart. Sitting with these emotions is uncomfortable, but as soon as we do it, we are shifting into a mental attitude of unconditional love for ourselves. From that place, it is possible to open to possibilities and choose responses that serve our greatest good. It takes practice, but the more often we take this approach, the more we discover that negativity dissolves when embraced with true acceptance.

We can witness our negativity without letting ourselves be consumed by it. This helps us open to the seasons of our lives, the bright ones and so-called dreary ones and sow the seeds of possibilities that exist in all of it.

Kate Upshur is a licensed clinical social worker, registered yoga teacher and owner of Thrive Counseling, LLC., in Webster Groves. See ad on this page.

Let Go of Controlby Kate Upshur

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You can prevent illness, repair cellular damage and promote lifelong wellness with quality products made from fresh, natural ingredients. Research shows when we apply products to our skin, the product chemicals can absorb into our blood stream within 30 seconds. Knowing what is in our skin care products is vital for good health. A useful measure is asking yourself if you can pronounce the ingredients you eat or apply to your body. If you’re not sure, it’s likely something you’d want to avoid.

Here are four key strategies to consider:

Attack free radicals with a super dose of antioxidants and phytonutrients found in every serving of Be Young's signature antioxidant drink, Masaji.

A single serving of Masaji contains an ORAC 5.0 value of 58,000 u/ml per ounce, almost three times the average found in the top 18 fruit, beverage and specialty products that promote themselves as antioxidant dense.

Defend your immune system. Be Young’s Liver Cleanse is specifically formulated to increase oxygenation, boost nutrient absorption and free vital organs from the harmful toxins that can lead to fatigue, organ failure and disease. Be Young Total Health Strategy is a complete, whole-body approach to preventing illness, repairing cellular damage and promoting lifelong wellness.

Protect yourself from the harmful ingredients found in most health and beauty products. Be Young Total Health has developed a trustworthy alternative to the

A Total Health Strategyby Donna Langenbacher

toxins found in most brands of health and beauty products. By using only safe, effective ingredients and Be Young’s signature EOBBD essential oils, you can feel confident that there is nothing dangerous or unknown compromising your delicate body system or stealing life from your skin, hair or smile.

Restore your cellular health with Nutri-Smart™ — an all-natural whole food formulated daily supplement that delivers complete nutrients equivalent to nine servings of fruits and nine vegetable servings. Be Young’s delicious 100 percent whole food meal replacement powders provide the macro nutrients and minerals you need to thrive without chemicals, pesticides, artificial coloring, flavoring, sweeteners or preservatives. Feeding your body and skin with all-natural ingredients and high-quality EOBBD essential oils is healthy. You get peace of mind by using products that are free of chemicals and preservatives.

These amazing products feature essential oils and blends specifically formulated to address your individual wellness concerns. Whether you are looking for pain relief, weight loss or energy and immunity boosts, Be Young Total Health is designed for you.

The Be Young Total Health Strategy is a complete, whole-body approach for preventing illness, repairing cellular damage and promoting lifelong wellness. A restoring and rewarding life is within your reach.

Donna Langenbacher represents Be Young Essential Oils. See ad on this page.

BY_AD_Donna_[2.25x9]_[r1.0.3].pdf 1 12/11/14 1:18 PM


During the winter months, St. Louis can be a bit dreary. To combat the winter blues, head to BrickTop’s in Frontenac for a taste of the exotic. From bronzed Georges Bank scallops to Hawaiian Ahi tuna steak, customers can escape to the Mediterranean and bask in the flavors of the sea.

BrickTop’s, located in the northeast corner of the Plaza Frontenac parking lot, offers a phenomenal menu for lunch, dinner and brunch, including a gluten-free menu. Customers can dine inside or sip a glass of wine outside on the Italian-style, open-air veranda during warmer months. Lunch menu items include delicacies such as Florida grouper and an Ahi tuna burger. The brunch menu offers various benedicts, including egg and crab, steak and eggs, and shrimp and grits. Dinner offerings include soy-marinated sea bass, parmesan crusted chicken and many more tasty delectables.

Last fall, Yoga & Spa Magazine held its Hot Off the Press party on BrickTop’s veranda and it proved to be the perfect event setting. More than 80 attendees gathered and mingled while enjoying wine, sushi and a variety of tasty appetizers. The veranda’s open

floor plan was ideal as attendees were able to move from the bar and back to the veranda with ease. Servers were attentive throughout the evening and Troy, restaurant’s general manager, ensured a seamless gathering.

Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic night out, a few girlfriends planning a ladies night or a large group needing event space, BrickTop’s offers it all. Their Mediterranean menu and excellent customer service make this dining spot rise above. Visit BrickTop’s today and prepare to be swept away while enjoying a little slice of paradise.

Buon’ Appetito!

BrickTop’s at 10342 Clayton Rd. in Frontenac. More information at Bricktops.com or call 314-567-6300.

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-

E2Fitness Studio

To Schedule a Free Power Plate Trial Call 636.220.8570 or visit

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Find us on

Group ClassesPersonal Training

Benefits Include

- Weight Loss- Belly Fat to Belly Flat- Increased strength and muscle tone- Cellulite reduction- Increased hormone secretion including the anti-aging hormone HGH (Human Growth Hormone). - Improved range of motion and flexibility- Increased bone density- Improved circulation- Reduce pain and soreness- Recover from injuries faster- Increased lymphatic drainage- Deep tissue and myofascial release

Introducing E2 Fitness Studio: The Power Plate Studio of Saint Louis

E2 Fitness Studio233 Lamp & Lantern Village

Town and Country, MO 63017

Kerri Ernst:“Since joining 6 months ago I’ve lost over 30 pounds! And since starting the cardio accelerator 4x a week the results have been amazing.”


Technology advances so quickly, it can be challenging to keep up. In fitness,the Power Plate is the latest advancement. Power Plates are certified medicaldevices used by the Mayo Clinic and most professional sports teams. They are also used to help paraplegics with muscle activity and to improve health. Now they are available for general public use via E2 Fitness Studio.

Let’s look at how Power Plates work and accelerate the benefits of exercise. The plates quickly move through three planes of motion at 30 to 40 times per second and create a physiological response; our bodies respond without our brain telling it to — similar to when a doctor taps the knee to check reflexes. The harmonic vibrations cause over 1,000 muscle contractions within 30 seconds. Because of the body’s response to the movement, over 90 percent of the muscle is activated; typical strength training activates around 30 percent of the muscle fibers. This has tremendous benefits for exercise — notably higher HGH levels.

Many actors and athletes have been criticized for using HGH intravenously for an anti-aging edge and for performance improvements. While this can be dangerous and full of negative side effects, there are no negatives from naturally increasing our HGH levels. Power Plate training is the answer.

Power Plate use increases human growth hormone (HGH) production, which declines drastically as we age. Some people believe that low HGH levels are a primary driver of negative aging effects. Power Plate interval training increases HGH levels in the body 500 times more than standard exercise. There are other ways to increase HGH to these levels: sprinting and power lifting, but the Power Plates can deliver the benefits without tearing your body down.

The low impact nature of the Power Plates means the body doesn’t release the stress hormone cortisol that comes from ordinary exercise. Cortisol can increase abdominal fat; Studies show that exercise on the power plate reduces cortisol secretion more than typical strength training and cardio activities. Higher HGH and lower stress hormone equals less stomach fat.

Other benefits include resistance without adding stress of extra weight on joints. Power Plates also activate the body’s lymphatic system. Every day, our lymphatic systems circulate about three liters of blood plasma. Because of inactivity, toxins from processed foods and pollutants, our lymphatic systems can stagnate and promote inflammation. Power plate training changes that.

E2 Fitness Studio offers four commercial Pro 5 Power Plates for training.For more information and to schedule a free trial, call 636-220-8570, orvisit E2FitnessStudio.com. Located at 233 Lamp & Lantern Village inTown and Country. See ad on previous page.

Introducing the Power Plate

by Jeremy Bennett

Living Fit


The Chinese philosophical concepts of yin and yang are often thought to be opposing forces, but they are actually complementary and harmonizing. Interpretations from Daoism tell us that any corollary notions of good vs. bad, or better vs. worse, are not reality. Instead, they are grounded in our perceptions.

A compelling argument can also be made about the seemingly opposing, but complementary natures of yoga and CrossFit. Yoga as a physical practice can improve flexibility, core and relative (bodyweight) strength, balance and breath control. It can also transcend the strictly physical to include mental, spiritual and emotional benefits.

Unfortunately, as a physical and mental practice, yoga is incomplete. It does not fully address our physical need to develop absolute strength (force against external objects), stamina, power and cardio-respiratory endurance. Yoga also falls short in providing an outlet for spiritual and emotional displays of potency and might. Enter CrossFit.

The textbook definition of CrossFit is “constantly varied, functional movements, executed at high intensity.” This translates to intense workouts that combine elements of weightlifting, bodyweight movements, and cardio. CrossFit works for a broad range of fitness levels because it can be scaled by altering load, repetitions, range of motion, and intensity — making it safe and effective for all.

Working the body across all three energy pathways, CrossFit develops strength, stamina, power, and cardio-vascular endurance in ways traditional exercise programs cannot match. It provides an avenue for its practitioners to fully realize the genetic inheritance of our robust prehistoric ancestors. With that inheritance comes vibrant good health and the body composition of a competitive athlete.

To complement your yoga practice, consider arranging a free introductory workout and experience how CrossFit can improve your fitness, your body and your life.

John Seiler is owner of Gateway CrossFit Personal Training at 507 S. Hanley Rd. in Clayton. He is a certified CrossFit Trainer and Strength and Conditioning Specialist. For more information, visit GatewayCrossFit.com or call 314-726-4702. See ad on this page.

The Yin & Yang of Yoga & CrossFit

by John Seiler

507 South Hanley RoadClayton, MO 63105

314.726.4702www.gatewaycrossfit.com

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There are many factors that influence weight loss. Sleep quality and quantity is often overlooked in the energy balance equation, but it is a significant element. Most people need about seven and a half hours of nightly sleep to keep a properly functioning metabolism, explains Michael Breus, Ph.D, author of Beauty Sleep and the clinical director of the sleep division for Arrowhead Health in Glendale, Arizona.

If one is getting the recommended amount of sleep, that’s a good thing, but it doesn’t mean that if you sleep even longer you’ll shed more pounds. However, if you only regularly get four hours of sleep nightly and then you up that to closer to seven hours, you may experience a natural weight loss.

In addition to ensuring we get enough rest, we also need to pay attention to its quality. There are many ways to improve sleep including reducing caffeine intake past mid-afternoon. Avoiding large meals and not drinking alcohol close to bedtime helps, too. The digestive process can disrupt the sleep cycle. If it’s busy responding to a heavy, late evening meal or metabolizing alcohol, sleep quality can be impaired.

Our bodies release hormones that help regulate our appetites. When we sleep, we produce ghrelin, the “move” hormone that tells us to eat, and leptin, the hormone that tells us to stop eating. When we are sleep

deprived, we produce more ghrelin (“Let’s go eat!”) and less leptin (“Put down that fork!”).

The combination of imbalanced hormones and impaired sleep is a formula for weight gain. The prescription for success in breaking out of this cycle extends from the bedroom into the kitchen as well. When we find ourselves tired during the day, our first inclination is often to seek a caffeine jolt, a salty bag of chips, a sweet treat or something heavier such as a burger and side of fries. That short-term "fix" is akin to answering a question your body hasn't asked. It’s easy to fall into a cycle of making poor food choices of low nutritional value and get off-track with our exercise routines. This is the opposite of what our bodies need and simply compounds problems such as an expanding waistline.

If you find yourself lacking sleep and adding inches, by making some lifestyle and dietary changes, you can spark your inch-fighting metabolism.

Live long and be healthy.

Brian Byrd is a fitness trainer and owner of STL Fitness and Wellness Group at 9248 Mountain Ash Trail in St. Louis. For more information, visit STLFitClub.com or call 314-616-6053. See ad on this page.

by Brian Byrd

Sleep Loss and Weight Loss

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Two common obstacles to getting and staying in shape are fending off boredom and pushing oneself hard enough to get results. Falling into an exercise rut and coasting through a routine on autopilot is not uncommon. Now there is an antidote to boredom and lackluster results: a workout at BURN 1000 in Town & Country where an hour session can generally burn as many as 1,000 calories. As a health coach and fitness trainer myself, I can tell you, a 3,500 calorie deficit is needed to shed a pound of body weight. A BURN 1000 workout is a highly efficient way to jumpstart that burn.

This high-tech, sleek and clean studio is the brainchild of Owner Liane Levy’s two decades of fitness industry experience. As an entrepreneur, certified fitness trainer and runner, Levy says, “I set out to create an efficient workout format combining cardiovascular and strength training benefits that works for people of all fitness levels.” Based on my recent workout session with Levy at BURN 1000, she has accomplished this ambitious goal.

There are varied workout formats offered throughout the studio’s day and evening hours — from Arms and Abs to Total Body sessions. The ambient lighting accented by splashes of overhead neon light keeps you focused on your own performance with little thought of what other co-exercisers might be doing. You begin a session either

on a treadmill or in the adjacent floor space outfitted with dumbbells, suspension straps, benches and mats.

“If one were to try to get a comparable strength and cardio workout in a typical gym, it would take as long as two and a half hours,” Levy explains. She packs the workout into 60 minutes for a highly efficient, big impact session for people who like a group training or class format, but want the specialized results from working with a professional trainer.

Levy (or one of the other four trainers who lead sessions) guides you through progressions of treadmill speeds and inclines with short, well-timed intervals as the hour passes. If you’re feeling energized, you can go with the top intensity she suggests, less energized and you opt for the lower intensity — only you and your body know. After ten minutes of cardio, it’s a quick transition to the floor routine where Levy takes the group through progressions of bending, lifting, pushing and pulling movements. All is set to fast-paced, energizing music. After 10 to 15 minutes on the floor, you return to treadmill cardio time and so the intervals continue. Fresh towels are at the ready to absorb sweat as you push your intensity just beyond your comfort zone. You and your transforming body will hardly notice the hour as it passes quickly with this engaging and invigorating format.

by Gayle Wilson Rose

BURN 1000: The Evolution of Interval Training


Levy loves providing physical challenges for clients; she embraces life challenges as well. Fifteen years ago, she bravely left her South African home and ventured to the U.S. without knowing a soul. This powerhouse woman who is all of 5 foot 5 inches and 113 pounds was seeking “opportunity and a change of scenery.” Within a few short months, she experienced another big change: her weight ballooned to142 pounds—a significant jump for her small frame. “I attributed the weight gain to American super-sized portions.” She reflects, “It took a long time to lose, but it offered me the valuable experience of battling to reduce body fat.” Now 26 pounds lighter, Levy epitomizes the possibilities of BURN 1000. Workouts build not just physical fitness, but mental strength, too. Levy continues, “At the end of a session, clients feel like they’ve made a positive, healthy difference for themselves.” Her husband’s regular workouts at BURN 1000 helped him drop 20 pounds in a few months. “He doesn’t take the classes I lead,” she says with a chuckle. “He says he gets enough of me telling him what to do around the house.”

A common misconception is that BURN 1000 is only for athletes, but people of all

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levels can improve their fitness and health there. Levy says “It’s inevitable that clients will work harder at BURN 1000.” For first-timers Levy advises, “Come prepared to be challenged, but consider that the biggest obstacle to results is usually mental. Our thoughts and self-imposed limitations are what typically hold us back.” The trainers provide the motivation you need to push yourself after you make the commitment to show up.

Whatever your New Year’s fitness goals might be, dust off your 2014 cobwebs and check out BURN 1000. Your body and psyche will thank you and will likely beg you for more.

BURN 1000 is located at 1036 Town & Country Crossing, Dr., Town and Country, MO. More information at BURN1000USA.com, call 636-220-1010.

Gayle Wilson Rose is a St. Louis freelance writer, editor, ACE-certified health coach and fitness trainer. Connect with her at DashWriter.com or at PyramidCoaches.com.


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Valid for Opening Month – Feb 2015Please call 314.459.3930 to make an appointment

New Kirkwood Yoga Studio Opening!

A new year can be exciting and hopeful, but being a beginner to yoga can be the opposite experience for many. With my first class, I wasn’t there for a full minute before I was looking for the exit. Doubts ran through my mind such as “I can’t do this. This is not for me.”

Namaste[nuhm-uh-stey] noun1. A traditional greeting or sign of peace. 2. The light in me recognizes the light in you. 3. A simple acknowledgement of another.

Thankfully, I cast my doubts aside and found a place in the back where no one could see me. The teacher guided us into child’s pose where I sank my head into the mat. Slowly, I began to breathe and release worries. I quickly transported myself to a place I never before experienced. I realized everyone was there for the same reason I was: to focus and live in the present moment.

After an hour of sweating and intense breathing, I left with a great feeling of accomplishment. I realized that although we travel differently, we travel the same path seeking peace and serenity.

Namaste Yoga Studio is a welcoming place for beginners and advanced students alike. Our name, Namaste, means that we recognize and acknowledge you; you as a unique individual who is in your own place and own time. Someone with goals, boundaries and perhaps even fears.

Let us say to you, Namaste. You will never be just another body at our studio. We leave all intimidation, judgments and negative thoughts at the door. Our 2,600 square foot yoga studio in the downtown Kirkwood station business district will open in early February. Our conventional and non-conventional yoga classes in heated and non-heated environments will begin as early as 6 a.m. Looking forward to your future practice with us.

Bobbi Vujevic and Christie Vatterott are the owners of Namaste at 200 S. Kirkwood Rd, Suite 140, in Kirkwood. For updates and information, visit Namaste-stl.com. See Sol-Tan ad on page 16.


Yoga

Historic downtown St. Charles is full of charm. A stroll down Main Street will bring a smile to your face — whether from a stop in an ice cream shop or pause in a quaint park. Smiles on the faces of passersby have another local source: the welcoming Blue Bird Yoga studio that overlooks Frontier Park and the Missouri River.

Since co-owners Ellen Niedringhaus and Sarah Edwards opened the doors four years ago, their mission has been to provide health and happiness to all who cross their threshold. With 22 weekly classes, each of the studio’s 11 teachers offers unique strengths and energies.

The studio’s focus is alignment-based hatha yoga for students of any level whether they are seeking a challenge or an hour of nurturing. A Yoga Basics class provides a safe and supportive space in which to explore and get familiar with yoga fundamentals. The Sunday afternoon Yin yoga class for all levels calms the nervous system and prepares us for the new week ahead.

For yogis looking to broaden their range of poses through intermediate and advanced levels, the Yogis Unite class is a favorite.

The daily Yogahour® class combines play and power. It is a fun, rockin’ class with music and expert instruction. The goal of Yogahour is to be the most difficult and doable one-hour class available, and at just $7 cash per Yogahour class, it is also easy on the wallet. The 80 to 85 degree room helps warm the body in preparation for this all-levels, adult-style recess. With 50 to 60 poses in a Yogahour, the pace alone will build your stamina. The goal is to make every yogi as flexible as they are strong and as strong as they are flexible. Because

Yoga Smiles

of the demanding pace and number of poses, expert instruction is imperative.

Ellen Niedringhaus, a Yogahour Teacher Trainer, and Sarah Edwards, a certified Yogahour Teacher, are leading a 200-hour Yogahour Teacher Training at Blue Bird Yoga July through November, 2015. Upon completion, participants can register as RYT-200 through Yoga Alliance with the option of becoming a certified Yogahour teacher. The skills learned in the training will strengthen skills of experienced teachers and prepare new teachers to be the best of the best.

Blue Bird Yoga is located at 416 S. Main Street in St. Charles. For more information on classes and teacher training, visit BlueBirdYoga.com or call 636-493-9293.

Front row (l-r) : Kristen Rhodes, Shannon Wheeler, Christa Khatcherian, Maddie Webb. Back Row: Erin Booker, Sarah Edwards, Josh Holder, Ellen Niedringhaus

photo by Mia Kannapell

by Gayle Wilson Rose


Sumits Hot Yoga: The practice doesn’t change but you do!

17668 Chesterfield Airport Road • Chesterfield, MO 63005636-536-3799 • www.sumitsyogastl.com

[email protected] • Facebook: Sumits Hot Yoga St. Louis

Sumits Hot Yoga St. Louis

TWO Weeks of Unlimited Yoga for $25$7 Community Classes weekly

Be pampered with a 4-hand massage using an aromatherapy oil, then covered in a botanical body mud for a steam bath with invigorating herbs in our Swedena; additionally you’ll be massaged with a light layer of circulating lymph oil infused with diamond gem elixir, and spoiled with a hydrating body butter.The Beautiful Body treatment can be given up to twice a week during your stay at The Raj.

Beautiful Body treatment for weight loss & cellulite reduction

www.theRaj.comTo schedule your stay at The Raj Ayurveda Health Spa, call 800-864-8714


We are a St. Louis yoga studio that offers the highest quality of yoga instruction for all levels in a safe and comfortable setting. We are an extended family here and present each member of our community an experience that will relieve stress, improve health, and tap into one's innate inner Awesome.

5755 Chippewa, St. Louis, MO, 63109 | 314.399.0491www.practicingyogastudio.com

We often find ourselves doing the same things day after day, but wondering why we stay stuck in ruts. Through the practice of listening and paying attention in yoga, we get to know ourselves. We start to break free from our self-imposed limits and see things from a different perspective. We place ourselves in these imaginary boxes because it feels safe. We know what we can expect in our box and we can even feel big. But when we come to our mat to practice, we practice letting go of some of those limits and can see just what we are capable of. At Practicing Yoga we call this our “awesome.”

We start where we are. Yoga teaches us about patience and how to enjoy the journey instead of being focused only on the end result. We learn how to celebrate ourselves even when our ego wants to shame us for not going as far in a pose as we think we should. Yoga also teaches us how to stay humble when we are successful and to continue working in the present moment. We practice being courageous. We practice listening, loving and honoring ourselves. We practice being the “awesome” that we are — even in the face of challenges and fear.

Practicing Yoga is home to an amazing community of students who hold space for and support each other. Whether you are new to yoga or are more experienced, you will find what you need here. We have only a handful of the best teachers in St. Louis. Please, accept our invitation to come see what we are about and be awesome.

Roxanne Krummenacher is owner/instructor of Practicing Yoga at 5755 Chippewa in St. Louis. More information at PracticingYogaStudio.com or email Roxanne at [email protected]. See ad on this page.

The Awesome Gifts of Yoga

The original hot yoga. Sweat, smile, and be amazed!Intro Special: $40 for One Month of Unlimited Yoga

Bikram's original hot yoga class is designed forall levels. The series of 26 postures helps improve

circulation, increase flexibility and strength andeliminate toxins. Come sweat with us!

6630 Clayton Rd. • St. Louis, MO 63117 • 314.644.2226 • yogastlouis.com

Newly Renovated!

by Roxanne Krummenacher


There aren’t many options available for women-only fitness in St. Louis, but This Way Ladies, a boutique fitness and wellness studio located near St. Louis Hills, is a fun, energetic and pampering club just for women. This Way Ladies prides itself on providing the ultimate fitness and wellness experience every time members come through their door. Enjoy a comfortable, invigorating environment where you can exercise in the comfort of other women. (No men to ogle you or watch you sweat.)

With programs and wellness activities designed specifically for women, you’ll find the healthy alternatives you've been looking for to get or stay in shape and give your body the attention it deserves. Their many fitness offerings include personal training, kettlebell sculpting, small group training and boot camps - all in a women-only setting. State-of-the-art exercise equipment such as elliptical trainers, recumbent bikes and Hoist ROC-IT Selectorized weight machines offer users many options. Free weights also make your fitness goals easier to obtain.

A Fitness Club Designed with Women in Mind

Pamper time is a well-earned post-workout reward and you’ll find it at the club. A pumpkin enzyme mask, paraffin hand treatment, deep tissue massage, Infrared sauna and T-Zone Vibration Technology are indulges that are hard to resist. For those seeking an unforgettable ladies night out, This Way Ladies offers fully customizable packages of fitness and pampering.

Revolutionize the way you exercise by visiting This Way Ladies today — a one-stop shop for fitness and wellness services.

This Way Ladies is located at 5840 Hampton Ave. in St. Louis. More information at ThisWayLadies.com or by calling 314-685-2085.

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‘Men need Style too! Don’t be afraid to look good!’

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Personal Shopper

314-494-1806facebook.com/stylemattersbyjill


A yoga practice offers many gifts. A sense of heightened awareness from a class that awakens the senses through a combination of music, asanas and atmosphere is one. Use of essential oils in a yoga class can be like a beautiful bow that tops the gift. Looking at how our senses respond to a yoga practice is an interesting way to view use of oils. A yoga studio’s physical space most often will appeal to the sense of sight by using earthy tones and indirect lighting. Touch is incorporated by the body’s grounding on a mat or an instructor’s adjusting touch. Auditory stimulation comes from music, chanting and an instructor’s encouraging or soothing voice. Essential oils (EOs) can bring in the senses of both smell and taste to create a complete sensory experience. Using EOs can result in feeling that all of your senses are powered to the “on” position.

As naturally fragrant extracts of flowers, trees, herbs and other plant material, EO use is as ancient as the practice of yoga. Parallels between yoga and EOs are many including both being used to balance, relax, heal and detoxify. They both provide an immune system boost and may be used to treat a

variety of mental and physical ailments. They also can release emotions, lower stress, energize and unite mind and body. Offering wholeness and peace is a common and important goal of both.

There are three primary ways to incorporate EOs into a yoga practice:

• Diffusing: Oil diffusers deliver a lasting, ultra-fine mist which is suspended in air. Reed diffusers and candle lamps are also options.

• Topical: EOs easily absorb in the skin. The chest, neck, brow, third eye, hands, wrists and feet are popular application sites.

• Ingestion: 1-2 drops of an EO in a glass or stainless steel water bottle can aid digestion, provide antioxidants and eliminate toxins.

Selecting the ideal type of EO to enhance a yoga practice should be driven by the effect that one desires. Outcomes can be varied, including:

Citrus: uplifting and energizing. As a

Essential Oils Enhance Yoga by Jennifer Hojnacki

practice beginner, it can provide a “clean slate” feeling.

Frankincense: for grounding, breath work and meditation. Often applied to the back of the neck.

Peppermint and eucalyptus: for breath work and to energize. Opens the chest.

Chamomile: applied to the third eye to enhance awareness.

Lavender and sandalwood: for calming, centering and grounding.

Wild orange and lemongrass: to purify and cleanse.

Jennifer Hojnacki is the owner of Valley Vinyasa Yoga Studio at 130 Chesterfield Towne Center in Chesterfield. For more information about classes and workshops featuring essential oils, visit ValleyVinyasa.com, email [email protected] or call 314-753-3661.


Which of these types most resembles you?A. Active, but bored with your workouts. Wants to explore new avenues for personal enrichment. B. Mostly sedentary, in search of a gentle and life enhancing practice that ups your energy. C. Simple, just seeking to grow, change and access the real you.

If any of these three types describe you, Authentic Movement may be a pathway worth exploring. Authentic Movement (AM) is a simple, nonverbal improvisational practice that promotes self-awareness, personal growth and movement flow. It allows you to discover your authentic self, listen to your body and open a window to new levels of consciousness for creativity and healing. The self becomes both the dancer and observer who communicate through the non-verbal language of sensations, images, rhythms and feelings.

There is both a mover and a witness in AM practice. As the mover, you relax with eyes closed and pay attention to your body sensations, movement impulses, feelings and internal imagery in order to contact your essential self. You do not direct your movement like a dancer, performer or athlete. Instead, you wait until movement arises from within. The idea is to allow yourself to be in the present moment and let your movement unfold. You deeply experience your full body-mind and feelings. Healing can take place when you recognize material that is waiting to be known and understood.

In AM practice, the mover is witnessed unconditionally by a skilled facilitator who does not judge, but who watches how the body expresses itself with its unconscious material. After the movement, the mover and witness exchange insights for deeper awareness and integration of the experience.

Exploring through AM can be deeply satisfying. The process connects you to the inner dynamic of your life to contact and express your multidimensional being. You expand your core self to embody your greatness. AM leads you back home to peace, health and well-being.

Becky Brittain Ph.D. is a body-centered psychotherapist, registered dance movement therapist and adjunct professor at Washington University who teaches Authentic Movement. More information at EmbodyYourGreatness.com or email [email protected].

Moving into Self with Authentic MoveMent

by Becky Brittain, Ph.D.

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Spring Earth Day Issue

Green Living

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or email: [email protected]


by Becky Brittain, Ph.D.

This time of year is perfect for welcoming change, fresh starts and new beginnings. In the yogic tradition, a resolution is a Sankalpa. The Sanksrit root, “kalpa” means vow or, “rule to be followed above all rules.” The prefix “san” refers to a connection with the highest truth. By definition, a Sankalpa honors the deeper meaning of life. It speaks to the larger arc of our lives or our dharma — our overriding purpose for being. It allows us to realize our heartfelt desires and to work towards achieving those desires without changing who we are.

In this time of resolution setting, yoga welcomes an alternative approach. Instead of returning to the ubiquitous “I will” resolutions, yoga speaks through the “I am” perspective which draws forth what is already there — the divine light that shines within.

A common beginning for a yoga practice is the ritual of setting an intention. It can be something as simple as drawing awareness to the breath. Intentions may also extend a bit deeper by choosing to honor, respect and listen to our bodies — to extend loving-kindness to ourselves and others or a

Sankalpa: The Power of Intentionbroader community. A Sankalpa can be as broad or specific as one needs it to be; one can seamlessly integrate it into a practice on the mat or into life off the mat.

Listening to our hearts, bodies and minds allows us to witness this evolution with consciousness. We can honor our limitations and celebrate accomplishments without judgments, attachments or expectations.

By setting intentions, we call upon iccha (will and energy), kryia (action), and jnana (the wisdom of how to bring forth actions). The art of this practice is conscious action without clinging to outcomes. It liberates us from expectation and rejoices in resistance. It is simply a catalyst for our growth.

Follow these simple steps to craft your own Sankalpa:• State the Sankalpa (A deeply held fact in present “I am” tense)• Plant the seed of your Sankalpa (Remembrance)• Nourish your Sankalpa (Take action)• Fulfill your dharma (Release from attachment or expectation)

Shanti Yoga brings in the New Year with a 30-day New Student Special of unlimited yoga for $30. This opportunity to explore the diversity of different yoga lineages while setting intentions for 2015 is rare. Classes for all levels take place daily and allow for exploration in a welcoming space. Knowledgeable, compassionate instructors will help you reach your goals.

Katie Kelly is owner of Shanti Yoga in Maplewood at 7346 Manchester Rd. (above Boogaloo). More information at ShantiYogaSTL.com, or email [email protected].

by Katie Kelly


10 minutes from downtown La Paz, a cultural pearl known as the "City of Peace" that was named a top 10 place in the world to retire by the New York Times. The resort's luxurious hotel accommodations are the perfect home-away-from-home for the holidays and include private, furnished balconies with marina, mountain and ocean views. CostaBaja is also home to the region's finest destination spa, Mexico's only Gary Player-designed golf course, three pools, a 250-slip double-basin marina and multiple onsite dining choices that include one of Mexico’s finest restaurants.

Win a Trip for Two to this Luxury Resort & Spa

by

CostaBaja is situated on 550 acres of environmentally protected coastal lands


Win a Trip for Two to this Luxury Resort & Spa

Prize is valid until June 15, 2015, and includes four days and three nights with breakfast.

Enter to win at Living Fit Expo on January 31 at Plaza Frontenac. See page 7 for details. Airfare not included. Must be present to win.

CostaBaja Resort Launches New Paddleboard Yoga Retreats

Breathe new life into your fitness routine as you float to new levels of relaxation and core strength with the new Paddleboard Yoga retreats at Costabaja Resort & Spa, a 5-star beachfront retreat in peaceful La Paz, Mexico, overlooking the balmy Sea of Cortez.

The eagerly anticipated retreats will offer all the benefits of yoga, intensified physically and spiritually by balancing on a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) that's floating on the glistening, protected waters surrounding CostaBaja rather than on a traditional mat surface. The resort is an ideal setting for the retreats, which will be offered offered January 8-12, 15-19 and 22-26, 2015, with additional retreats during the year being planned.

CostaBaja boasts an exceptionally serene natural setting, with the mountains and dessert flowing into the sea and calm, shallow waters beyond its sandy beach and protected lagoon. It's simply perfect conditions for SUP.

Retreat pricing starts at just $1,042 for double occupancy and $1,349 for single occupancy. Enjoy the Early Bird Special and take advantage of reduced pricing: $1,017 for double occupancy and $1,324 for single occupancy. For more information, visit www.costabajaresort.com or call 877-392-5525.


A relaxing getaway destination without going far from home is Elsah, Illinois. The Green Tree Inn B&B there offers a delightful alternative to a hotel stay. Here are four common questions and answers about this destination.

Q: Why visit Elsah in the winter time and where is Elsah?

A: The Great River Road and the historic village of Elsah are beautiful year-round, but particularly during winter as it’s prime time for eagle viewing on the beautiful bluffs that border the Mississippi River. A dusting of snow on the village is a sight to behold. Located just off the Great River Road, 5 minutes from Grafton, 15 minutes from Alton and 50 minutes from downtown St. Louis, this quaint village offers easy access to nearby shopping, dining and events.

Q: Why plan a getaway to Green Tree Inn B&B in Elsah?

A: Personal service is the answer. Green Tree owners Gary and Connie Davis offer guests delicious home-cooked food, a homey, comfortable atmosphere and personal attention. Whether that means breakfast at a special time, dining tips, area history or activity recommendations, the Green Tree Inn hosts can help.

Each Inn guest has their own private room, private bathroom with a shower/tub combo and a private entrance to come and go as they please. Guests can relax in front of a fireplace as they savor a warm tea in the common area. Or guests might lose themselves with a great book or enjoy a board game from the game closet.

Elsah and Green Tree Inn B&B

Q: What kind of food can guests expect?

A: Home-cooked, of course! Each morning, guests enjoy a full gourmet, home-cooked breakfast in the Inn’s common area. This relaxed meal begins with fresh fruit followed by a main course. A hash brown quiche with fresh vegetables and homemade bread or apple-stuffed French toast with sausage are guest favorites. Homemade afternoon snacks satisfy visitors daily in the common area. Connie loves cooking and trying new recipes, so new items appear regularly on the menu. She is adept at accommodating varied dietary needs and restrictions of guests.

The Green Tree Inn B&B is located at 15 Mill Street in Elsah, Illinois. Information at GreenTreeInnElsah.com, by calling 618-374-2821 or email [email protected].

Need another reason to plan a getaway to Elsah and Green Tree Inn B&B? For guests who spend two nights there, they’ll receive their second night at half price. But hurry — this offer expires March 31, 2015. (Excludes February 13 and 14.)

Mark Twain once noted the difference between the right word and

the almost-right word is like the difference between lightening

and a lightening bug. One could make a similar observation about

the difference between a get-away where one stays in a hotel

compared to a stay at a Bed-and-Breakfast.


(314) 849-111512630 Lamplighter Square, St. Louis, MO 63128

salonantebellum.com

It is our passion to make you look and feel just the way you imagined on your special day.

Celebrate with the Lady Antebellas in our salon home or let us travel to you.

Sign ONE contract, pay ONE price...your ad appears in BOTH publications!

Maximize your print advertising dollars in 2014!

It’s easy! Missouri Meetings & Events and Yoga & Spa magazines are partnering to make your budget work harder for you. For the first time, ONE ad contract puts your message in front of the readers of BOTH high-quality quarterly magazines.

Make One Ad Buy... Enjoy Twice the Exposure!

Yoga & Spa appears in print and digital form, reaching affluent female readers in the St. Louis suburbs of Clayton, Town & Country, Ladue, Chesterfield, Des Peres and Frontenac. Combo-rate advertisers receive a 400-word editorial mention in Yoga & Spa’s spring “Pamper the Bride” section; four-time advertisers receive a vendor table at the magazine’s annual Living Fit Expo in St. Louis at Plaza Frontenac in January 2015. More than 1,500 people attend the Expo each year.

Joe CloteMissouri Meetings & Events

314-781-8880 or [email protected]

Stacy HunsickerYoga & Spa


Missouri Meetings & Events reaches a controlled circulation of 10,000 Missouri meeting planners, venues and related suppliers.

Yoga & Spa reaches an affluent St. Louis market of 30,000 readers who enjoy health and fitness activities, spa services, and weekend getaways.

For Special Rates and More Information, Contact:

Missouri Meetings & Events, published in print and digital form, targets corporate, association, health care, education, government and independent meeting planners, and their suppliers. It is distributed at industry-specific trade shows, including MM&E’s own annual Kansas City and St. Louis Expos. As an advertiser, you’ll enjoy additional exposure via MM&E’s social media platforms, 112,800-reader newsletter, and website.

+ = DOUBLEEXPOSURE

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MME_YogaSpa Full Pg Ad.indd 1 4/15/14 11:00 AM


The American College of Prosthodontists reports 178 million people in the U.S. are missing at least one tooth. That equates to about one in two Americans facing a problem whose answer is a bit more complex today due to advances in dentistry.

The best tooth replacement option is situation dependent. Factors to consider include: the number of teeth missing, length of time missing, amount of lost bone volume, dental and overall health conditions and cost considerations. A complete assessment determines if a dental implant or a non-implant system will work best. With some simple diagnostics, including a 3D CT Scan, an exam and consultation, Artistic Dentistry patients can review a full range of tooth replacement options customized to their individual situation. They’re able to get every question answered until they feel informed enough to make their own choice. Regardless of the replacement option selected, all of the necessary procedures and technology are available at Artistic Dentistry. This becomes especially convenient when a dental implant system is preferred.

All-inclusive implant services simplify the process for Artistic Dentistry patients. Tooth extraction, implant placement and crown procedures are performed in one office. Where teeth have been missing for some time, a bone graft restores lost bone. A sinus lift procedure can be performed where necessary. In some instances, an implant can be placed immediately after a tooth is extracted.

The first step to replacing lost teeth is discovering the options available based on the individual’s situation. Artistic Dentistry makes this first step uncomplicated and affordable. Dr. Peter J. Pagano, DDS has been in practice for over thirty years and placing implants since 1999.

Artistic Dentistry at 12334 Olive Blvd in Creve Coeur. More information at ArtisticSmileDoc.com or by calling 314-576-3000. See ad on this page.

Getting a Tooth Replaced Used to Be a Hassle.

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Sign ONE contract, pay ONE price...your ad appears in BOTH publications!

Maximize your print advertising dollars in 2014!

It’s easy! Missouri Meetings & Events and Yoga & Spa magazines are partnering to make your budget work harder for you. For the first time, ONE ad contract puts your message in front of the readers of BOTH high-quality quarterly magazines.

Make One Ad Buy... Enjoy Twice the Exposure!

Yoga & Spa appears in print and digital form, reaching affluent female readers in the St. Louis suburbs of Clayton, Town & Country, Ladue, Chesterfield, Des Peres and Frontenac. Combo-rate advertisers receive a 400-word editorial mention in Yoga & Spa’s spring “Pamper the Bride” section; four-time advertisers receive a vendor table at the magazine’s annual Living Fit Expo in St. Louis at Plaza Frontenac in January 2015. More than 1,500 people attend the Expo each year.

Joe CloteMissouri Meetings & Events


Stacy HunsickerYoga & Spa


Missouri Meetings & Events reaches a controlled circulation of 10,000 Missouri meeting planners, venues and related suppliers.

Yoga & Spa reaches an affluent St. Louis market of 30,000 readers who enjoy health and fitness activities, spa services, and weekend getaways.

For Special Rates and More Information, Contact:

Missouri Meetings & Events, published in print and digital form, targets corporate, association, health care, education, government and independent meeting planners, and their suppliers. It is distributed at industry-specific trade shows, including MM&E’s own annual Kansas City and St. Louis Expos. As an advertiser, you’ll enjoy additional exposure via MM&E’s social media platforms, 112,800-reader newsletter, and website.

+ = DOUBLEEXPOSURE

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MME_YogaSpa Full Pg Ad.indd 1 4/15/14 11:00 AM


For many, January brings resolutions to improve health. By March, the pledges have fizzled, the old behaviors returned. We have the best of intentions, but without defined and attainable goals and guidance to get there, we lose motivation, becoming frustrated and discouraged. Change is hard.

Partnering with a Health Coach is an effective approach to breaking through self-defeating patterns.

When you partner with a coach, you learn strategic and effective ways to make sustainable behavior changes and are accountable for your goals. You create a vision of health that is achievable through a step-by-step process, define goals that are attainable and supportive of your vision. Your coach will help you discover your unique strengths, motivations and core values, which are foundations for permanent change.

Through a health coaching partnership, you develop strategies to overcome obstacles and learn to anticipate challenges. Your coach helps you develop a long-term vision of health that you reduce to smaller, attainable goals. You’ll talk weekly by phone, reviewing progress to goals, brainstorming strategies and making adjustment

Partnering for Better Healthby Alison Allman and Gayle Wilson Rose

for the coming week. Some weeks will be full of high-fives, others may find you heading back to the drawing board. You keep moving forward with your coach as your vision becomes reality.

A Health Coach keeps you accountable, inspired, and committed. As you develop stronger self-control, your confidence and optimism increase. You reach your goals through consistent and sustainable progress and change. Let this New Year be truly your New Year ~ give yourself the gift of good health.

Alison Allman and Gayle Wilson Rose are certified health coaches and fitness trainers. For more information, visit PyramidCoaches.com or call 314-914-7846.

Make lifestyle changes that last a lifetime

• Lose unhealthy weight • Improve fitness • Decrease stress • Increase energy

Let the New Year bring a New You. Connect today with your change partners.

Alison Allman, R.N.

Certified Health & Wellness Coach

ACSM Personal Trainer

Gayle Wilson Rose

ACE-Certified Health Coach

ACE-Certified Personal Trainer

PyramidCoaches.com | 314-914-7846

PyramidHEALTH COACHING


Those of us who follow natural beauty trends have long-heard growing praise of facial oils. Those new to the use of oils in skincare may have concerns about breakouts or greasiness. It is helpful to know your skin type to choose the best oil for you.

Oils are made of triglycerides, free fatty acids and other types of lipids including sterols and fat-soluble vitamins. When applied, some oils sink into the skin while some remain on the surface. The absorbent oils nourish and plump cells. The oil that remains on the surface rebuilds the skin's natural lipid barrier to protect against moisture loss.

The application of oil can also affect the skin’s own oil production levels. If the skin senses a lack of oil, it will respond by producing more. If it senses an abundance, it will slow sebum production. Choosing the right weight of oil means you can achieve better balance. Once or twice daily should be adequate application frequency for any facial oil. If your skin feels too oily or dry, you can increase or decrease richness accordingly.

Ideal Oils for Your Skin Type

by Julie Longyear

Oily skin types will want to use lightweight, absorbent oils with natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Unrefined hemp seed oil is a perfect example of a balancing, calming oil for oily skin. It soaks-in quickly, but leaves enough nourishment on the skin surface to balance sebum levels. Tamanu oil is also ideal for acne issues, as it contains compounds that fight bacteria.

Normal skin types can enjoy using a wide range of oils including coconut, baobab, argan, cranberry and more. If your skin is not prone to imbalances, then you can choose an oil that reflects your preference for feel, aroma and nutrient profile. Oils have varied vitamin and antioxidant content, which can help fight premature skin aging. Just remember to look for unrefined and cold-pressed oils for the best quality.

Dry or aging skin needs extra nourishment and can benefit from thicker, richer oils. Pomegranate seed oil is one of the absolute best oils for very dehydrated skin. It is thick and resinous and helps lock-in moisture.

Rosehip is another popular oil for mature skin due to its rich feel and natural Vitamin A content.

Carefully choosing an oil suitable for your skin type will ensure that you get the best possible results. In doing so, you'll join a long tradition of women who have used oils to beautify, protect and heal their skin. The visibly healthy results will have everyone asking what you're doing differently. Oils are a beauty secret worth sharing.

Julie Longyear is owner of Blissoma Skincare & Apothecary, a holistic, raw, organic and vegan skincare line focused on healing and generating gorgeous, healthy results for all skin types. Location: 1418 N. Park Place, St. Louis. More information at Blissoma.com, email [email protected] or call 314-802-7687. See ad on page 16.


Our thoughts, bodies and emotions all have certain unique and individual vibrations. Many of us live our lives from a place of powerless reaction to the constant waves of energy that emanate from others’ emotions, outside events and the world at large. As a result, we can feel as if we are in a storm —out of control in a force beyond our control. Our lives seem out of balance, stressful and confusing. We sense we are adrift, stuck and unable to create the life we deeply desire.

However, we are actually in control and have a clear choice.

Every event appears in our life to inform us of the quality of the energy operating in our life. The people who are in our life are crystal clear reflections of how our personal energy system is operating. For instance, if we are surrounded by stress and conflict, it shows us that our energy system is blocked and depleted. If we have laughter, love and relaxation, then we experience friendship, harmony and love in our relationships. Our daily life is a mirror that reflects the expression of our personal energy.

The flow of money in our lives, business opportunities, illness and addictions — all of these experiences show us the quality of our personal vibration and how our energy system is operating in our everyday world.

At The Energy School, you can learn to recognize your personal energy, understand how it works and set intentions to empower yourself to move in the direction that is in the highest good for your life. Energy work can support you in recognizing the flow of your personal energy and show you how to

Everything is Energy

calm stressful emotions. When we nourish our body, mind and spirit with positive language, healthy food and meditation, we can experience a breakthrough and release patterns that keep us stuck in seemingly impossible situations.

Now is the time to shift your energy permanently for the better and to deepen your connection to your soul. Together, we can assist you in releasing and aligning the patterns that interfere with your highest good.

It would be our delight to walk beside you for a moment and share your inspired personal journey of soul actualization and individual awakened consciousness.

The Energy School features leading experts in vibrational healing, energy medicine, intuition and integrative wellness. These experts are available to work online or on-site in their St. Louis wellness center at 8029 Clayton Road. Classes, private sessions, weekend retreats, intimate trips to sacred destinations and individual certification programs are available.

Kristen White is owner of The Energy School. Visit www.TheEnergySchool.net or call 314-863-3949. See ad on this page.

by Kristen White

The EnergySchool

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MANIFEST LOVEMANIFEST HEALTHMANIFEST WEALTHMANIFEST JOYWhat do you want to

receive in the New Year?


Lifestyle

your personality, confidence, self-esteem and even your insecurities. It expresses to others how you feel without saying a word. Whether you are going out on a date, job interview or networking event, the clothes you wear speak volumes. Finding your own personal style and having fun with it allows you to be creative, express your individuality and shows a level of confidence that speaks well for you.

Why should a man care about dressing well and looking good? Here are the top five reasons:

1 – Total strangers give a well-dressed man the benefit of any doubt.

2 – With a smile and confident eye contact, you will look comfortable in any situation.

3 – Others see you as more confident and as a high earner.

4 – Your handshake seems stronger.

5 – Upper management will take notice and is more likely to invite you to interview for a promotion.

So where does one start? By considering these ten fashion tips:1 – Proper-fitting clothes are most important.

2 – Check the fabric. Buy clothes that are 100 percent pure — whether cotton, wool, etc.

3 – Avoid buying small, medium and large dress shirts.

4 – Buy at least one or two custom-fitted shirts; the benefits outweigh the small investment.

5 – Know how to roll your sleeves – details do matter.

6 – If you’re not going out for a run, don’t wear running shoes. Invest in good lace-ups and slip-on shoes.

7 – Tie width should match your suit lapel width – it is all about balance.

8 – A pocket square adds an extra level of polish and allows you to stand out in a crowd.

9 – When wearing a jacket, shirt sleeve cuffs should be exposed about a half inch.

10 – For a more fashion- forward look, the pant hem should hit right at the top of your shoe.

Bonus – Being well-dressed is a beautiful form of politeness!

Finally, the beauty of style and feeling comfortable and confident allows others to see you and not be distracted by how you are dressed.

Don’t be afraid to look good!

Style Matters,

Jill Pagano314-494-1806

Style is an expression of self:


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Midwest winters mean definitive change of seasons. With this change, the energy systems in our bodies also change. As the days become shorter and colder, our energies typically choose to be inside, both in the physical sense and emotionally.

It is a time to go deep within ourselves to contemplate, focus and plan what we want to see grow in our lives when spring arrives. With the New Year comes new ideas; consider setting aside quiet time or meditating to allow ideas to percolate and blossom.

Another energy that supports us is the element associated with each season. Water is the element of winter. It gives us the message of “going with the flow.” This energy exercise from Eden Energy Medicine helps us connect to the water element and flow of winter. Try it and notice how it feels in your body:

Sit on the floor or in a cushioned chair. Pull your knees to your chest, wrapping your arms around your knees (or hands resting on your knees if needed for flexibility.) Gently rock your body

Be Gentle with Yourself

back and forth, as you breathe in — as if smelling your favorite flower. Exhale with the sound of whoooooooo, as if you were blowing out a candle. Repeat, knowing that you are releasing fear and emotions related to fear as you pull in trust. Breath normal cycles for several minutes while remaining quiet. Notice how you feel. Savor your time of inner peace.

As you find your flow, ideas appear and seeds are planted. They will begin to sprout in the spring.

Consider a New Year’s resolution of regularly looking within and finding your own personal flow. Be gentle with yourself then decide what is best for you.

Marilyn Eagen is a Certified Eden Energy Medicine Practitioner and Certified Life Coach who empowers women to find peace and joy in their lives. More information at MarilynEagen.com or [email protected] or call 314-330-4156. Her Harmony Lifecare office is at 2190 S. Mason Rd. Ste. 100 in Town and Country. See ad on this page.

by Marilyn Eagen

Let go of stress, blocked emotions and limiting beliefs to bring you in alignment with peace.

You will feel lighter, gaining new awareness and hope for achieving what's most important to you.

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The heavy adversities or joyful adventures of our ancestors may affect our personality and how we experience life. Our DNA is inherited and contains the roadmap for making us each unique. Surrounding our DNA is a protein cover, or epigenome, described by scientists as a kind of chemical switch that determines which genes are activated and which ones lay dormant.

McGill University research reveals emotional imprints of past events are recorded and stored in the epigenome and are passed on trans-generationally. This may help explain why it can feel as though we are carrying the weight of the world on our shoulders. In addition to our own stresses, we may be carrying remnants of emotional discord experienced by those who came before us.

This information has important implications for the healing of trauma and negative emotions — those that come from our own experiences and inherited emotions from our lineage. Working through past and present emotional challenges through the body is healing not only for an individual, but also for future generations. As emotional debris of the past is released through awareness and forgiveness, people often feel liberated and notice they feel better physically. An emotional shift occurs when this deep healing of our ancestral past and our current experience happens. Scientists report the epigenome can be affected by many things including nutrition, stress, environmental toxins, experiences and emotions.

Epigenetics, Forgiveness and Peace

Our ancestral thoughts and feelings can come into play as well. This is empowering knowledge. Everything we do to care for ourselves is significant and shapes our health. When we choose to move towards peace, our energy positively radiates to those around us.

Bruce Lipton, an internationally recognized scientist and pioneering leader in bridging the gap between science and spiritual belief suggests healing and changing our limiting subconscious thoughts and beliefs can be a powerful step. It can positively affect and support our epigenome and entire experience as humans — now and in generations ahead.

Emotional energy healing is a natural way to process emotions in a deep and meaningful way while moving past limiting beliefs. As we heal the past and embrace positive new beliefs about ourselves, we more closely align with peace.

Dorothy Tomasic is an emotional energy healing practitioner who assists people in letting go of stress, while building positive beliefs through energy, intuition and forgiveness. More information at MyEssentialConnections.com, call 636-821-1158 or email [email protected]. See ad on page 50.

by Dorothy Tomasic



Most women dream of spending Valentine’s Day with the love of their life by their side, reveling in the magnificence of love. But for many, that day that brings up myriad ways love is not as present in our life as we desire.

Despite our modern world advances, statistics show the majority of marriages in the U.S. fail. As psychologist Ty Tashiro points out in his book The Science of Happily Ever After, only 3 in 10 people consider themselves to be in a healthy, happy relationship. If we are in a relationship or marriage, keeping love alive and being a part of the thriving and happy 30 percent can be challenging as well. Despite the odds, we can make 2015 the year we finally bring more love into our life.

According to Dr. John Gottman, a leading relationship expert and author of What Makes Love Last, a key indicator of a successful and lasting relationship is kindness. During his Love Lab study, Dr.

Gottman discovered relationships thrive in atmospheres where partners are receptive to the bids of attention their partners request. The simple act of kindness, which can be as basic as paying attention, listening, and acknowledging the presence of each other, is enough to keep a marriage together. Simple kindness makes each partner feel cared for, understood and validated.

Consider giving and receiving the perfect gift this Valentine’s Day: being more kind and loving to ourselves. Simple kindness, when directed inward, is self-love. This love is not narcissistic or egotistical. Authentic self-love is being in awe of the miracle of our existence. It is accepting ourselves exactly as we are with both gifts and flaws.

The journey to integrating kindness and self-love into our life is the most sacred journey we can take, yet so often it begins with pain, heartache and struggle. Fortunately, there are experts who are trained to light

the way for creating these successful and happy partnerships. For single and divorced people, jumping back into the fire that lead to hurt and bitterness is not easy. This Valentine’s Day, consider connecting with a relationship expert and fall back in love with yourself. It will help you make 2015 the year you finally attract and keep the ultimate love of your life.

Sandy Tomey is a certified professional coach and energy practitioner who helps single and divorced women heal from past heartache and reconnect to their divine spirit so they can attract the ultimate love of their life. For a complimentary “Love Illumination” Discovery Session call 314-322-5052 or for more information, visit TheLoveLuminary.com.

“The secret of attraction is to love

yourself. Attractive people judge

neither themselves nor others.

They are open to gestures of love.

They think about love, and express

their love in every action. They know

that love is not a mere sentiment,

but the ultimate truth at the heart of

the universe.” ~ Deepak Chopra

Choose Kindness and Self- Love this Valentine’s Day


“Vision is the art of seeing what is invisible to others.” – Jonathan Swift

Charley Blood is more than a distinguished local artist; he is the maverick purveyor of eco-friendly design transformations. With more than 30 years of experience, Charley’s style focuses on preservation, morphed into the extraordinary.

With a background in fine art, Charley’s projects include everything from architectural elements, to furniture, ceilings, and floors. In the 70s, he worked for a major department store in “Display,” which gave him the design tools that influence his perspective on setting — even greater — the reconstruction of setting.

Charley works with homeowners, decorators, and commercial contractors to help them envision the reincarnation of the old into something they never could have imagined. Conversely, a master of decorative finishes, he is able to turn the new into something beautifully aged.

In order to help his clients see the benefits of an eco-conscious, cost-effective refur-bishment, he collaborates on design solutions early in the project. Each project has its own unique qualities; therefore, every piece of work receives a custom application of Charley’s artistic process. He presents his clients with sample boards and in-depth consultations before he begins a project. Customers appreciate his instinct for detail and his readiness to listen.

In wIth the Old, In wIth the newDecorative Painter repurposeS with Style and FineSse

Charley’s favorite expression of his creative sense is embodied in Trompe L’Oeil, which is French for “fool the eye.” He does this by creating the illusion of three-dimensional objects on a two-dimensional plane.

Truly, you have to touch it to believe it.

Masterful techniques include: marbling, antiquing, crackling, wood-graining (faux bois), gilding, color washing, faux finishes, murals, plaster techniques, strie’ and metallic finishes.

If you are inspired to have a new vision, then he’s inspired to get you there.

Contributed by writer, poet and educator Dena Molen.

More information: Charles Blood Artistic, 835 Liggett Ave., Crestwood. Visit CharlesBloodArtistic.com, email [email protected] or call 314-223-4651. See ad on this page.

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Here are some fun and interesting facts to start your New Year with a healthy mind-set and smile.

• The word “gymnasium” comes from the Greek word “gymnazein,” which means “to exercise naked.”

• Yoga is a powerful way to look more youthful. A consistent yoga practice helps reverse processes of aging, such as increased oxidation and acidity, cell damage and inflamed tissues. Over time, these all can lead to illness and disease.

• According to Guinness World Records, the oldest yoga teacher is 85-year-old Bette Calman from Australia, although 90-year-old Gladys Morris from England is petitioning to be recognized as the record holder. They may need to settle it on the mat.

• The benefits of exercise go far beyond weight management. Exercise also combats stress, promotes better sleep and enhances the immune system.

• Research shows when we walk for exercise, we walk 30 percent longer if we listen to music.

• Exercise is the closest thing to an anti-aging pill. People who are physically fit, eat healthy, balanced diets and take nutritional supplements can score ten to 20 years younger biologically than their chronological age.

• We burn more calories sleeping than watching television.

• For those who make a daily habit of drinking four or more caffeinated beverages, their risk of sleep apnea jumps 33 percent.

• Stress causes or complicates 90 percent of diseases.

• Both green and black teas increase blood antioxidant activity by almost 50 percent and for as long as 80 minutes. With five cups of daily tea, the amount a typical Japanese person drinks, we can cut our risk of stroke in half.

• People who laugh a lot are healthier than the non-jovial. Research shows laughing reduces stress hormones and strengthens immunity. We can take a cue from 6-year-olds who laugh an average of 300 times daily. Us grown-ups average only 15 to100 daily giggles.

For more tips on aging well, contact [email protected].

Tessa's Tips for a Healthy Lifestyleby Tessa Greenspan

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Onward and Upward in 2015

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Contact Stacy today to begin living a healthier, wealthier and more

fulfilling life. Call 314-781-8822

A free, no-obligation consultation with accomplished publisher and businesswoman

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Y&S Interview

Wanderlust Yoga Festival with Rod Stryker

The summer 2014 Wanderlust Yoga Festival made the fourth of July week-end in Snowmass Village, Colorado, spectacular. With a back drop of the beautiful Rocky Mountains, few places are better suited to disconnecting from the stresses of modern life and reconnecting with self.

Wanderlust Festivals are all-out, ecstatic celebrations. (The photo images on their website clearly reinforce this.) These gatherings bring together the world’s leading yoga teachers, top musical acts, renowned speakers, exquisite chefs and eclectic performance artists. Whether you’re into ex-ploring their multi-day mountaintop adventures or gathering for a day-long urban retreat, Wanderlust events are an opportunity to bypass the ordinary and discover the extraordinary.

With many classes and workshops to choose from, there is never a lack of variety to suit the needs of yogis of any level. At the summer gathering, Pamela Primm, a lucky Yoga & Spa Magazine staffer, was thrilled to attend a Yoga Nidra class offered by Rod Stryker, the founder of ParaYoga and widely considered to be one of the West's leading authorities on the an-cient traditions of yoga, tantra, and meditation. With 35 years of teaching experience, Stryker is renowned — having studied closely with two great Tantric yoga masters. He recently authored The Four Desires: Creating a Life or Purpose, Happiness, Prosperity and Freedom and has penned count-less articles about yoga and meditation. Also a highly respected speaker, he is known for making the deepest aspects of yogic science both practical and accessible to varied audiences.

Stryker’s Nidra class was equally insightful and relaxing. It began with moving and warming-up in a gentle flow, followed by a deep, meditative and slow relaxation where we let everything go. (Something challenging for some of us Westerners.) Stryker led us into a great state of relaxation where most of us transitioned into a light state of sleep. His teachings and the festival-inspired inner reflection sparked our desire to find the next Wanderlust adventure — maybe something international next time!

YOGASPAMAG

Yoga & Spa Magazine • Winter 2015 59YOGASPAMAG

WHERE EAST MEETS WEST

Nurturing the Beauty in You. . .Consciously


Health Beauty Lifestyle Yoga Spa · years, Dr. Davis is experienced and trained in traditional and non-traditional fields of medicine. She draws from both Western and Eastern methods

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