VIE Magazine - January 2023

PHOTO BY ED GUTENTAG

—GERALD BURWELL, AIA, NCARB, USGBC | FOUNDER/PRINCIPAL

"It's a privilege to be the Architect of Record for Bella Mare Real Estate Holdings, LLC, on its nine lots nestled in the enclave of Heritage Dunes, tucked just off of 30-A."

VISIT ALYS BEACH, FLORIDA, A NEW URBANIST COMMUNITY ON THE PRISTINE BEACHES OF THE GULF OF MEXICO.

“They’re spiritual seekers, heart-centered entrepreneurs, community leaders, and, above all else, two best friends tackling big conversations with ease and a lot of laughter.” We’re thrilled to feature Lindsey Simcik and Krista Williams, founders and hosts of the Global Top 50 wellness and spirituality podcasts Almost 30 and Morning Microdose, in our first issue of 2023! These powerhouse entrepreneurs and wellness gurus share their inspirations, struggles, and tips on living your best life in our feature on page 24. We look forward to having them on VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart & Soul podcast hosted by Lisa Marie Burwell as we kick off Season 2!

by Heather Shane

Vie is a French word meaning “life” or “way of living.” VIE magazine sets itself apart as a high-gloss publication that focuses on human-interest stories with heart and soul. From Seattle to NYC with a concentration in the Southeast, VIE is known for its unique editorial approach—a broad spectrum of deep content with rich photography. The award-winning magazine was founded in 2008 by husband-and-wife team Lisa and Gerald Burwell, owners of the specialty publishing and branding house known as The Idea Boutique®. From the finest artistically bound books to paperless digital publication and distribution, The Idea Boutique provides comprehensive publishing services to authors and organizations. Its team of creative professionals delivers a complete publishing experience—all that’s needed is your vision.

PUBLISHED BY

FEATURE

Photo

CREATIVE TEAM

CEO / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF LISA MARIE BURWELL Lisa@VIEmagazine.com

FOUNDER / PUBLISHER GERALD BURWELL Gerald@VIEmagazine.com

EDITORIAL

EDITOR

JORDAN STAGGS Jordan@VIEmagazine.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR EMME MARTIN Emme@VIEmagazine.com

CHIEF COPY EDITOR MARGARET STEVENSON COPY EDITOR WENDY ANDERSON

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

HAILEY BETHKE, SALLIE W. BOYLES, HUNTER BURGTORF, FELICIA FERGUSON, SARAH FREEMAN, ANTHEA GERRIE, MARIANNE GORDON, MYLES MELLOR, CAROLYN O’NEIL, TORI PHELPS, SUZANNE POLLAK, BART PRECOURT, NICHOLAS S. RACHEOTES, LAURETTE RYAN, COLLEEN SACHS, LINDSAY TOBIAS

ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY

CREATIVE DIRECTOR TRACEY THOMAS Tracey@VIEmagazine.com

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER SALLY NEAL

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER HANNAH VERMILLION

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

LAUREN ATHALIA, HUNTER BURGTORF, JACK GARDNER, ED GUTENTAG, TYLER HOGAN, NICOLE IVANOV, JEFF LANDRETH, DAN LECCA, HELEN NORMAN, CARLO PIERONI, ROBERT RIEGER, ROMONA ROBBINS, HEATHER SHANE, ANTHONY SMOOTS, SAM STAPLETON, GINA TREMBLAY, MODUS PHOTOGRAPHY, SHUTTERSTOCK, UNSPLASH

ADVERTISING, SALES, AND MARKETING

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

KELLY CURRY Kelly@VIEmagazine.com

MARKETING COORDINATOR ADDIE STRICKLAND

MARKETING INTERN HAILEY BETHKE

BRAND AMBASSADORS

LISA MARIE BURWELL Lisa@VIEmagazine.com

ALEX CURRY Alex@VIEmagazine.com MARTA RATA Marta@VIEmagazine.com

AD MANAGER

ADDIE STRICKLAND Addie@VIEmagazine.com

VIE is a registered trademark. All contents herein are Copyright © 2008–2023 Cornerstone Marketing and Advertising, Incorporated (Publisher). All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. VIE is a lifestyle magazine and is published twelve times annually on a monthly schedule. The opinions herein are not necessarily those of the Publisher. The Publisher and its advertisers will not be held responsible for any errors found in this publication. The Publisher is not liable for the accuracy of statements made by its advertisers. Ads that appear in this publication are not intended as offers where prohibited by state law. The Publisher is not responsible for photography or artwork submitted by freelance or outside contributors. The Publisher reserves the right to publish any letter addressed to the editor or the Publisher. VIE is a paid publication. Subscription rates: Printed magazine – One-year $29.95; Two-year $49.95. Subscriptions can be purchased online at www.VIEmagazine.com.

SLOW LIVING

A PURPOSEFUL LIFE

When a type A personality like mine feels like we are moving too fast, we are. We need to slow down, as the world is moving at breakneck speed. A few years ago, I heard rumblings of the Slow Food movement that spawned the “slow living” concept and a series of offshoots like slow travel, slow fitness, slow gardening, slow fashion, and so on. I thought it was a fad, but I completely understood and embraced the ethos of Slow Food, which was founded in the late-1980s in Italy in response to a McDonald’s opening in the heart of Rome. Journalist Carlo Petrini and a group of activists formed the movement to support regional food traditions, and it has since hit home for me and many others. I applaud people who spearhead initiatives that defy the norm and defend what is important to them because, in reality, it usually ends up being important for all of us. The core of Petrini’s idea includes good food, gastronomic pleasure, and a slow pace of life. It has also evolved to recognize the connections between plate, planet, people, politics, and culture. Now, Slow Food represents a global campaign involving thousands of projects and millions of people in over 160 countries. It is fascinating to see how this slow movement has actually grown very fast, with no signs of stopping anytime soon. Visit the official website, SlowFood.com, to learn more.

Making time for balance, wellness, and mindfulness in our daily lives isn’t just for athletes or yogis. It’s become office watercooler talk (or Zoom chat talk), a mainstream conversation topic, and a way of life for many people. Countless books and podcasts actively and openly discuss tips, techniques, and rituals for protecting ourselves against being so busy that we can’t take time for our well-being. In my opinion, the absence of time causes much of our health and wellness to be neglected. This also has a domino effect; if we aren’t operating at the best level we can for ourselves, we won’t have time to support those in our circle who may need us or organizations we care about. So the cycle continues, causing a breakdown in our communities which, in turn, creates more stress on individuals. Sometimes just realizing what is amiss is all that is needed to evoke change, which is why conversations about these matters and a host of others are so meaningful. We hope the stories in this issue will start some conversations, and we welcome your thoughts!

It’s another pivotal turning point for us at VIE as we enter 2023 with a purposeful, methodical, and strategic plan to continue growing our brand ecosystem. Our podcast, VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart & Soul, will have its Season 2 launch in early February and has expanded on Instagram with a new channel, @viespeaks, so please give it a follow. The VIE Book Club is launching, with editor Jordan Staggs spearheading and moderating this endeavor. We will also unveil a brand-new website that will make you feel like you’ve entered another dimension of the VIE experience, and our Stories with Heart & Soul Tour will pick up with VIE events across the US. In addition, through The Idea Boutique, our publishing department will release

three new books: our second luxury coffee-table book, COOK by VIE; a beautiful new coffee-table book for The Seaside Style; and Janie Blue, the debut novel by Northwest Florida author Suzy Accola.

In recognition of a very aggressive year and an exciting one ahead, we decided to close the office for December so that we could reset, revisit, and be present with our friends and families during the holiday season before coming back refreshed on January 2. A belated Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and a blessed New Year to all!

Lisa Marie Burwell CEO/Editor-in-Chief

—To Life, Love & Peace!

Lisa Marie Burwell hosting VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart & Soul podcast at VIE HQ

Photo by Anthony Smoots

We collaborate with talented photographers, writers, and other creatives on a regular basis, and we’re continually inspired by how they pour their hearts and souls into their crafts. Follow these creatives on social media and don’t forget to check out our account, @viemagazine.

IN THIS ISSUE, WE ASKED THE CREATIVES: WHAT DID YOU LEARN FROM 2022, AND HOW WILL YOU APPROACH LIFE DIFFERENTLY THIS YEAR?

KRISTA WILLIAMS

Cofounder and Cohost, Almost 30 Podcast @itskrista

This year was about having my own back more than ever. Peace and confidence come with being kind, supportive, and gentle with yourself. There was a time when I thought judging and shaming myself would get me to where I wanted to be, but I’ve come to know and love who I am, and I’ll always be by her side. On good days and bad, I know I’ve got me, which brings me joy. This year, I’ll continue collaborating with who I am and allowing her space to express and explore the world in new ways. I want to allow her to feel what she wants and truly ride the wave together.

This year, I really understood the power of my mind on a deep level. I realized my mind will always protect me by considering worst-case scenarios. With a lot happening personally, including an engagement and wedding, I had to practice being in my heart more. My mind wanted to sabotage the good with a fear-based approach. With every decision, conversation, and choice, I had to remind myself that my heart is incredibly intelligent, and I can trust its wisdom. In 2023, I am committed to exploring more of what my heart has to say and wants me to do. I know the direction won’t always make sense, but it will never be inherently wrong.

CHRIS REEBALS

HUNTER BURGTORF

I learned a lot in 2022, mostly about the value of in-person interaction and how a well-designed space enhances being with others. As the fear surrounding the pandemic began to subside, I watched people pursue interaction in a way I had never seen. We desired what we could not experience on Zoom—the warmth of a touch, the contagion of a smile, and the visceral value of proximity. I gained more appreciation for the impact of design on human interaction and pursued ways to improve it. Like moths, we are drawn to the light. Like children, we search for intimate niches scaled to match the nature of togetherness. When aligned with materials and light, volume and scale invite community. I’ve found a deeper joy in my profession’s value regarding life and happiness.

LawnStarter Editor-in-Chief, “Love Where You Live” @hermanjeff

We lost two terrific writers to better-paying sites in 2021, and that tested one of my core beliefs: Don’t let the good ones—your “A” players—go. But if they must, get them back if you can. That’s what happened— staying connected made it easy to reach out to both former team members with new better-paying roles. Connections matter in life, too. When my high school classmate reached out earlier this year for a review of the cover type for his first novel, I was glad to help. In 2023, I will reach out to family, friends, and former colleagues to keep our connections strong and fresh. You never know when you will need to hire them back, help them land a new job, or ask for advice or a shoulder to lean on.

One of the biggest lessons 2022 taught me was about presence. I have a one-year-old; seeing how fast that first year flies by puts life itself into perspective. I watched her go from a tiny baby into a little toddler; her features formed, and her personality blossomed. There were long days, but this year passed in a blink. I often analyze the past or panic about the future, but when you have this tiny person, you realize real magic is in the here and now. Seeing the world through her eyes, I’ve found a feeling of presence

I haven’t experienced before. Carrying that with me into 2023, I can’t wait to see how life unfolds.

Principal Architect, Christopher Architecture & Interiors @christopherai

LINDSEY SIMCIK

Cofounder and Cohost, Almost 30 Podcast @lindseysimcik

Writer and Photographer, “Water Is Life” @hunterburgtorf

JEFF HERMAN

Happy New Year!

We love connecting with our readers and seeing what’s been happening in the community this season. Don’t forget to share, post, and tag VIE in all your exciting conversations and experiences! There is nothing we enjoy more than hearing your stories and sharing them with our audience. Thank you, and happy reading!

@burwell_associates The Heritage – A VIE Legacy Show Home reveal party featured a fine art photography exhibit by @viemagazine’s 100th Issue cover guy, Julian Lennon. It was amazing to share the first of nine homes I designed in @heritagedunes30a for Bella Mare Real Estate Holdings and support our local nonprofit health center @thepwmc and Julian’s @whitefeatherfoundation. Photo: @wposner

@foreher The Pink Walk benefiting Fore Her is back and better than ever! The event takes place Saturday, January 28, 2023, at The Village of Baytowne Wharf and will introduce a timed 5k race in addition to the Survivor Stroll and annual Walk. Thank you for featuring us, @viemagazine!

@sophiavictoriavegan I can’t believe my recipe is featured in @viemagazine! This opportunity was out of the blue yet so aligned. I truly feel so close to what I am meant to be doing. I’m grateful for this moment and couldn’t have imagined a better way to end this amazing year!

@anthealejardin The lovely ladies of @viemagazine. Thank you for your support in 2022. We missed you, @emmemartin, @martulea, and @thesunshinesignal. Thank you, @alifestyledco, for the excellent snacks and cocktails!

LET’S TALK!

Send VIE your comments and photos on our social media channels or by emailing us at info@viemagazine.com. We’d love to hear your thoughts. They could end up in the next La conversation!

VIEmagazine.com

@elizabethhaytstudio Thank you, @viemagazine, for the lovely feature! Find us today on the first page of their “La maison” home section in the December 2022 Holiday Issue. @nivenbreen

@bijouxdestin With a little salt and lime, our Bijoux Blackberry Margarita is a tasty twist on a classic favorite. Try one for yourself today! Photo: @viemagazine #BijouxDestin

Cocktails

Cuisine Culture

La vitalité

A ZEST FOR LIFE

Glo is an online yoga, meditation, Pilates, and fitness app designed to incorporate daily wellness practice seamlessly into your life. With over five thousand on-demand classes taught by worldrenowned instructors, the breadth of content truly offers something for everyone and allows for endless discoveries. Designed for every skill level, space, and schedule, Glo’s wellness community helps build sustainable self-care practices. Make Glo your go-to for mind-body wellness.

Photo courtesy of Yoga Glo

Elevated

Navigating Life Transitions & Conscious Living

Lindsey Simcik and Krista Williams, the founders and hosts of the Almost 30 and Morning Microdose podcasts

Interview by Hailey Bethke Photography by Heather Shane , courtesy of Almost 30

Krista Williams and Lindsey Simcik are the dynamic female duo and hosts of Almost 30, a top-ranking wellness, spirituality, and lifestyle podcast designed to support listeners’ personal growth and evolution. Fittingly, the two met when they were experiencing their own major life transitions. “We were navigating our Saturn Returns, the astrological transit that happens in your late twenties, which often forces you to confront major shifts in your career, relationships, and self-development.

We were going through it all,” Williams recalls. “We met at a SoulCycle in Los Angeles. I was auditioning to be an instructor and had been rejected from the position—twice. That rejection was heartbreaking at the time, but it led me to Lindsey, our friendship, and our greater purpose together.”

Such rejection was a blessing in disguise; Williams and Simcik began sharing their personal experiences and struggles around rejection, fear, relationships, and following their passions with each other. Soon, they decided to start recording these intimate and raw conversations (produced from their closet floors, nonetheless) to help others navigate transitions in their own lives. Seven months of closet chats eventually built up the courage the two needed to launch the Almost 30 podcast. More than seven years later, Almost 30 is a Top 50 Podcast with over seventy-five million downloads. It is home to a wildly supportive community of women seeking answers to the hard questions and discovering what it means to live with purpose.

Each episode is rooted in the hosts’ mission of making spirituality accessible, all while inspiring and empowering listeners. The goal is to keep every conversation grounded and fun, and the pair remains committed to learning and growing alongside their audience. Recent guests have included spiritual thought-leader Jay Shetty on “Spirituality, Leadership, and Finding Your Purpose,” Glennon Doyle on “This Is How You Find Yourself,” and Dr. Zach Bush on “Finding the Beauty in Yourself.”

Solo episodes draw upon their individual strengths and life experiences, such as Simcik’s episode on “The Sacredness of Being Single” and Williams’s story on “The Journey of Body Acceptance.”

“Podcasting is unlike any other medium, and it’s the space where I’ve felt most free to express myself,” Williams adds. “Podcasting takes away the physical aspect so you can focus fully on your voice and message.” While the podcast industry has boomed over the past decade (and shows no sign of slowing down), Williams believes there is still space for more voices and unique perspectives. “If you have something to say and you approach it in an honest, authentic, and heart-centered way, I believe there’s a place for you in the podcasting world,” she remarks.

The duo also recently launched a second podcast called Morning Microdose. Each episode is less than ten minutes and features Williams and Simcik’s favorite excerpts from the Almost 30 podcast. What people do first in the morning sets the tone for the entire day, yet we often grab our phones to scan through emails, scroll on social media, or press snooze on the alarm. “Our intention with Morning Microdose is to help you wake up peacefully to create sacred mornings,” the hosts express.

They’re spiritual seekers, heart-centered entrepreneurs, community leaders, and, above all else, two best friends tackling big conversations with ease and a lot of laughter.

Although the pair values intentional moments to unwind and reflect, they also recognize the time to hustle. Particularly, when starting Almost 30, they kept their day jobs. “It was a really busy time, and we were grinding—working on the podcast at night, on the weekends, on our lunch breaks—but it was the absolute best decision for us,” Simcik shares. “We had the freedom to focus on the creative process and grow the brand gradually and organically. Since we didn’t have immense financial pressure, we could only say ‘yes’ to opportunities and partners that felt aligned for us. This created a much more sustainable, successful, and fulfilling business in the long term. When we finally did leave our full-time jobs, we knew we were ready and felt confident in that step.”

As friends and business partners who have continued to build a supportive and thriving relationship, Simcik and Williams consistently engage in what they call clearing conversations. “If you're in a relationship that means a lot to you and you are deeply connected, there will be seasons that test you and push you,” Simcik explains. “Often, to get to the next level of growth, you need to have a clearing conversation,

“ We had the freedom to focus on the creative process and grow the brand gradually and organically.

This page and opposite: Since Almost 30 started over seven years ago, it has grown into a Top 50 Podcast with a thriving community of listeners and over seventy-five million downloads. Williams and Simcik offer lifestyle coaching and live events through their Almost 30 Membership.

which involves listening, honesty, and operating from your heart rather than your mind or ego.” Clearing conversations are an ongoing and frequent habit that allows you to share your truths, desires, and what’s working and not working in a relationship. “We want to normalize those consistent conversations in relationships rather than holding feelings in and reaching a breaking point. This applies to romantic relationships, friendships, business relationships, and family. It is so important to communicate regularly with honesty and integrity.”

Building the courage to authentically share your truth and engage in clearing conversations requires commitment and, most importantly, practice. Simcik discloses that for years she struggled with being consumed by others’ thoughts, feelings, and judgments about her and her decisions. Today, “It’s a practice of literally minding my own business,” she emphasizes. “How someone perceives me is really none of my business. It says everything about them and nothing about me.” She turns to deep holotropic breathwork to counter people-pleasing tendencies to transcend limiting beliefs and loop thought patterns. “Breathwork reminds me of what’s true, so I can go into those moments of worrying about what other people think and remember who I am—the soul of me.”

Williams and Simcik also shared their favorite self-centering and well-being resources they continue to utilize for alignment and ease. For example, when experiencing an energetic funk, Simcik loves to move energy physically through walking, gentle movement, ecstatic dance, jumping on a rebounder, and even releasing emotions through laughter, tears, or screaming. “Some of my other favorite rituals are getting out in nature and putting my feet on the earth, gratitude, singing (my passion), and opening up a book to a random page that calls to me. All of these practices help me connect with myself,” she says.

For those looking to dive deeper into wellness resources, Williams and Simcik offer their Almost 30 Membership program. “When it comes to resources, I might be biased, but I think our membership is an incredible one,” Williams says. “As a member, you get access to monthly workshops, healings, live hangs with us and other members, affirmations, journal prompts, rituals, intention-setting practices, and more. Human beings need connection for good health, which is a big part of why we created the membership. Enrollment for 2023 will be opening soon!”

Left: Although Almost 30 is a successful podcast and business, Simcik and Williams constantly work to improve and offer excellent content and wellness advice for their community and themselves.

Above: Almost 30 members can enjoy complimentary access to all the brand’s live events!

Opposite: Photo by Nicole Ivanov

“

Some of my other favorite rituals are getting out in nature and putting my feet on the earth, gratitude, singing (my passion), and opening up a book to a random page that calls to me.

In the new year, there’s still more to come from the Almost 30 brand. “We’re looking forward to doing more solo episodes on the podcast, where we can share even more deeply and intimately about our spiritual journeys and how we’ve been evolving in our own lives and as spiritual leaders,” they share. “And, finally, we’ll be working on our book! Stay tuned!”

No matter what season of life you may be in, the Almost 30 community serves to support you in your growth as you embody the most authentic, empowered, and aligned version of yourself.

To connect with Krista Williams (@itskrista) and Lindsey Simcik (@lindseysimcik), tune into Almost 30 and Morning Microdose on all podcast listening platforms, visit Almost30.com, and follow along on Instagram @almost30podcast.

“

We’re looking forward to doing more solo episodes on the podcast, where we can share even more deeply and intimately about our spiritual journeys.

Getting to Know Krista & Lindsey

What’s one of your talents that lies deeper than what meets the eye?

Lindsey: One of Krista’s talents is to channel through someone’s more aligned mode of expressing and serving in the world. She’s able to intuit someone’s innate gifts and then pull up and out and visualize a more aligned path for them.

Krista: One of Lindsey’s biggest gifts is creating a sense of home, peace, and groundedness wherever she is—it’s very Virgo of her. She creates a sense of nesting that helps others feel safe, secure, and calm. Whether through her deep listening or her desire to create a beautiful, peaceful, and aesthetically supportive space, she curates an experience that helps others relax and feel like themselves.

Favorite mantra:

Lindsey: “Waking up to who you are requires letting go of who you imagined yourself to be.” — Alan Watts.

Krista: “Wherever you go, there you are.”

An intention for 2023:

Lindsey: To continue to simplify and imagine beyond what I originally imagined for myself. Our goals and visions can be so narrow because we focus on them so much, but I want to allow myself to pick up possibilities outside of my current aperture that I’m looking through.

Krista: More flow and authenticity.

One thing that will always make you laugh:

Lindsey: No matter what mood I’m in, when my husband walks in the door, we have a special greeting for each other. It breaks up any stress or tension and always makes me laugh.

Krista: Thinking of our first photo shoot for the podcast (we wore bathing suits, baseball caps, and ripped jean shorts!).

Favorite sweet or salty treat:

Lindsey: I love a chocolate chip cookie with raw milk.

Krista: Caramel crunch popcorn or granola.

If you had a billboard to share one message with everyone in the world, what would it be?

Lindsey: “Follow Your Heart”—cheesy but true. What if everyone followed their hearts?!

Krista: “What if it all worked out?”

To learn more about Jeffrey Beers or to view his design projects, visit JeffreyBeers.com or follow @jeffreybeersinternational on Instagram.

Wellness Connoisseur

Acclaimed designer Jeffrey Beers understands that when designing a health-conscious space, he must be in the mindset of wellness himself. “I find wellness by taking my boat out into the ocean for deepwater fishing and taking my dog to the park on weekends,” he says. Such activities promote a sense of peace and escapism Beers translates through his design projects, such as the Echelon Seaport wellness space in Boston. “At the end of the day, I am an emotional and modern architect who chooses luxury materials, furnishings, and equipment. I want the wellness area to feel like a happy and inviting place for mindful and healthy activities.”

Photo courtesy of Jeffrey Beers

An

Interview

with DR. MARK TAGER

Beautiful SkinWithinfrom

ith the skin-care industry so saturated in serums, moisturizers, and eye creams, it becomes difficult to know what to use to create the perfect skin routine. What if we could rule out some of our skin-care steps by looking at our dietary lifestyle? Mark J. Tager, MD, is CEO of San Diego-based ChangeWell Inc., an organization that trains and coaches certified nutritionists, licensed aestheticians, and other health-care practitioners to enhance their craft. In his most recent book, Feed Your Skin Right: Your Personalized Nutrition Plan for Radiant Beauty, Dr. Tager puts science behind the saying, “Beautiful from the inside out,” introducing readers to integrative medicine and regenerative techniques that lead to their personalized skin-care regimen. VIE had the opportunity to interview Dr. Tager about everything from supplements to skin microbiome testing.

BY Addie Strickland

The “why” takes into account how emotions shape your patterns.

VIE: What is your advice for the average consumer who is confused about the functions of different supplements and how they affect our skin?

VIE: Everyone wants healthy, glowing skin, but each person’s journey depends on their needs, so how do we know what we need individually?

Dr. Tager: In the last decade, a new field of personalized nutrition has evolved. This recognizes the individuality you mention, which I simply express as, “There is no one on the planet with the same skin as yours.” The process begins with dietary and lifestyle assessment, including how you exercise and your stress level. It takes into account age, chronic disease, medications that deplete nutrients, basic labs, gut integrity, nutrigenomics, food sensitivities, and the microbiome. There are many inputs that together provide guidance for the consumer and the practitioner on how to craft a personalized plan.

VIE: Where would you suggest a beginner start on their nutrition journey?

Dr. Tager: The first step is to take stock. Apply a bit of introspection and reflection. What, when, where, and why are you eating? I like to ask people to tell me in exquisite detail everything they’ve eaten in the last twenty-four hours. Make a list and note the approximate time of day and where they were. Food frequency questionnaires can also shed light on typical food patterns. It’s helpful to consider the when and why. The “when” relates to the benefits of consuming all your food in a tighter period and “fasting” for around thirteen hours.

Dr. Tager: This is a more nuanced answer. Confusion comes in many forms. There is confusion about quality and accessibility: Should I purchase my supplements in a discount store, at a specialty retailer, online, or in a clinician’s office? How do I know which ones are good quality? (Hint: Learn to read a supplement label.) What’s so special about “professional-grade” supplements? Set realistic expectations. Supplements are not drugs. They are designed to act as macronutrients (building blocks like calcium), antioxidants, and cofactors of key reactions (think zinc and magnesium). Dietary supplements supplement a healthy diet, which is consuming food

MD

The process begins with dietary and lifestyle assessment, including exercise and stress.

INTERVIEW

Mark J. Tager,

that looks like food and is not heavily processed with added sugars, fats, and chemical stabilizers. You can’t out-supplement a crappy diet! I advocate intelligent supplementing—a healthy diet augmented by specific nutrients that a consumer has a really good (hopefully with some objective data) reason to add.

VIE: What are some of the most common supplements that would be easy to implement into our daily lives?

Dr.Tager: I recommend a few basic supplements, beginning with a good multivitamin and mineral. Add a fish oil capsule (I like one with curcumin). I am a fan of astaxanthin and CoQ10 as powerful antioxidants; the latter is important for people on statins. There are a handful of well-crafted “beauty from within” skin supplements with good mixes of antioxidants, skin protectants (oral ceramides),

and vitamins and minerals. Beyond this, you move into supplements to reduce inflammation (PEA+, for example), help with sleep, promote cognition, improve digestion (enzymes), and counter dysbiosis in the gut.

VIE: What does it mean to “eat for your genes,” and how can the average person do so?

Dr. Tager: It’s hard to do unless you take a nutritional genomic test. This picks up genetic variants that can signal why you might need more or less of a specific nutrient. The impactful genetic variants affect metabolism. Based on genes, some people have different needs for vitamins and minerals. They also handle glucose differently (tendency to glycate), handle pigment differently, or break down collagen at greater rates. This information can help shape a specific supplement plan, along with a history, a physical, and other labs.

VIE: How does our gut health influence our skin? What are your tips for practicing better gut-health habits?

Dr. Tager: The gut, brain, and skin are all connected, both chemically and through the nervous system. The gut microbiome is disrupted in common skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and eczema. Spore-based probiotics can help reset the microbiome. I am a big fan of prebiotics—especially sauerkraut and kimchi. The most impactful is fiber from plants. Fiber is the preferred food of the good bacteria in the gut that make the neurotransmitters that affect brain function via

The gut microbiome is disrupted in common skin conditions like acne, psoria- sis, atopic dermatitis, and eczema. Spore-based probiotics can help reset the microbiome.

stimulation of the vagus nerve. These bacteria create short-chain fatty acids that go into circulation and go to the skin. There, they help with barrier functions. (You don’t want a leaky gut, and you don’t want leaky skin.)

VIE: What are refined carbohydrates, and how do they affect our skin and gut health?

Dr. Tager: The average American eats one hundred grams of added sugar daily. The problem with this is that it causes glycation. Glycation is the binding of sugar to the proteins in the body. When sugar binds to the heme in iron, it can be detected as HbA1C in the blood. This is a marker of diabetes. In the skin, sugar will bind to collagen, changing its shape and function and making it more brittle. This can lead to fine lines around the lips and cheeks.

VIE: What is your stance on the skin-care industry, and how has this powerhouse influenced (for better or worse) our skin’s health?

Dr. Tager: I have strong mixed feelings. There are more than one hundred thousand skin-care products on the market. Many come with a good bit of hype. Most products on the market sit on the top of the skin and don’t do much. Yet there is also an incredible dedication by the best companies to develop new molecules and delivery systems and do the appropriate clinical testing to show their products make a difference. So many “biologically active” molecules are making their way into skin-care products. These include growth factors, peptides, exosomes, vitamins and minerals, ceramides, nitric oxide, CBD—the list goes on. All of these come with a science story. The reality is that finding what is best for your skin is a trial-and-error process, which is probably why makeup cabinets around the world are littered with unused, semi-used, or long-forgotten topicals.

Healthy skin comes from within. Thank you, Dr. Tager!

To learn more about Dr. Tager or to buy a copy of his book, Feed Your Skin Right: Your Personalized Nutrition Plan for Radiant Beauty, visit DrTager.com.

Finding Your Flow

By HAILEY BETHKE Photography courtesy of SCULPT STUDIO

“Created to Move. Moved to Create.”

That mantra welcomes you upon entry to Sculpt Studio, a premier fitness and creative space along Northwest Florida’s Scenic Highway 30-A. Nestled among the trees and scrub in beautiful Seagrove Beach, Sculpt Studio serves as a community hub that celebrates strength, connects like-minded individuals, and encourages every student to step into the best version of themselves.

The owners, husband-and-wife duo Mike “MJ” and Bentley Jackson, who met at a yoga studio in Dallas, have always shared a passion for fitness. “On our first date, MJ and I dreamed about opening a studio of our own,” Bentley shares. “We eventually moved to 30-A and got married. When COVID-19 hit, our passion didn’t waver, and we began filming virtual workouts and leading outdoor classes wherever we could. Whether on docks or in driveways, we quickly formed a buzzing community, bonding over sweat, gratitude, and what some call a ‘party on a yoga mat.’” Guided by their vision and community support, the couple jumped at the opportunity to

open Sculpt Studio in late 2020. The business recently celebrated its second anniversary and won an award for Best Fitness Studio on the Emerald Coast.

Sculpt Studio isn’t just another gym; the Jacksons aim to redefine the relationship between a conventional yoga flow and a challenging HIIT workout. “What sets us apart is our energy!” they explain. “We wanted to rewrite the narrative of traditional yoga by making it fun and approachable to all. We noticed a gap between your typical gym with machines and weightlifting and your stereotypical yoga studio—both ends of the spectrum can be intimidating. We founded Sculpt Studio to merge the benefits of yoga, cardio, and strength training into one fun experience we call Yoga Sculpt. Each forty-five-minute class blends the flow, breath, and mindset of a yoga class with the reps, beat, and strength training components of a boot campstyle workout. The result is a refreshingly unique combination that’s fun, sweat-inducing, and highly addictive. Expect to leave feeling grounded, strong, and energized.”

Opposite: Bentley and Mike “MJ” Jackson, owners and founders of Sculpt Studio in Seagrove Beach, Florida

In addition to weekly workout classes at Sculpt Studio’s primary location in Seagrove Beach, MJ teaches outdoor classes from spring through fall at local venues like the Big Chill and the Seaside Pavilion. For those who love to work out from home or find themselves traveling, Sculpt also offers weekly on-demand classes. And, for groups visiting 30-A, MJ loves teaching private classes to add a feel-good flow to your memories.

The good energy doesn’t stop at the yoga mat. Bentley, whose background is in graphic design, channels her love for art through Sculpt’s Creative Studio. When she’s not operating her design agency from this hub, the space is used by other creatives for meetings, photo shoots, and private events.

“We have a series of wellness and floral workshops planned for the new year,” she shares. “We are excited to see the Creative Studio continue to evolve in 2023 as we strive to best serve our community and the businesses that support it.”

Opposite: Sculpt is also home to the Creative Studio, a cooperative workspace the Jacksons formed for community members to work on their creative businesses and host workshops.

WE FOUNDED SCULPT STUDIO TO MERGE THE BENEFITS OF YOGA, CARDIO, AND STRENGTH TRAINING INTO ONE FUN EXPERIENCE WE CALL YOGA SCULPT.

The couple feels incredibly grateful to help people discover a workout that allows them to feel empowered in their bodies and find a supportive community. “It’s what motivates us each day to keep pushing forward, stay consistent, and share what we feel called to do. Members often tell us how they’re able to run farther, play pickleball longer, walk taller, surf better, or just plain breathe and feel better, all because they’ve found a functional workout they love. It’s incredibly rewarding to serve our immediate community and positively impact the daily quality of life for its members.”

Whether you’re a HIIT enthusiast, a die-hard yogi, or simply love a good sweat session, classes at Sculpt Studio are designed to leave you feeling energized, grounded, and grateful.

VISIT SCULPTSTUDIO30A.COM TO LEARN MORE OR BOOK A CLASS.

Tips from the S cu lpt Crew

To help you live aligned and healthy in 2023, Bentley and MJ shared seven wellness tips you can implement today to start feeling your best.

1. FIND AN EXERCISE YOU LOVE. If you don’t enjoy it, you won’t stick with it! Working out should be a “get to,” not a “have to.”

2.WATER, WATER, WATER! To make hydration fun, we encourage our community with a reminder to do “ten-second chugs” of water throughout the day.

3. PRIORITIZE REST.

Rest isn’t something your body needs to “earn.” Trust that rest is productive and your energy is valuable. If you listen to your mind and body when they whisper, you won’t have to hear them scream.

4. SURROUND YOURSELF WITH LIKE-MINDED PEOPLE.

You are who you hang out with, so to build good habits and reach your goals, spend more time with people already doing those things. Find friends who lift you up, match your mindset, and support your goals. You’ll rise together!

5. PRACTICE FUNCTIONAL MOVEMENT.

You don’t need fancy machines, expensive products, pills, or powders to improve your health. Start doing the obvious things you aren’t spending enough time on. Find a way to move your body in every way every day and value consistency over intensity.

6. SELF-CARE IS NOT SELFISH. Spending time on your fitness is not selfish; neglecting your health is. Reap the benefits of action or pay the price of inaction.

7. IF YOU ARE FEELING ANXIOUS OR STRESSED OR LACK ENERGY, GET MOVING—IMMEDIATELY. Many people use being busy or stressed as an excuse not to work out, but that’s actually the best reason to work out. Once you get movement, momentum will quickly take over your body and overflow into your mind and day. You just have to take the first step!

Slow Your

SCROLL

The HOPE for DEPRESSION

RESEARCH FOUNDATION SHEDS LIGHT

Mental health discourse has solidified itself into the current zeitgeist following numerous seismic societal shifts, from the advent of social media to the global pandemic. As a result, conversations surrounding mental disorders and their treatments have become less taboo than in the past, allowing incentive to build toward finding solutions. However, it will take more than conversations to relieve the growing number of adolescents and adults with mental illness. It will take action.

The Hope for Depression Research Foundation (HDRF) is at the forefront of the resolution. Executive director Louisa Benton leads the foundation to find new therapeutic approaches to depression based on a fundamental understanding of the brain’s complex mood centers. In light of limited government funding allocated toward mental health research, private initiatives such as HDRF are crucial to realizing a healthier society. VIE spoke with Benton about social media use by adolescents, and she shared insights into its harmful effects while giving hope for a better future.

VIE: Tell us a little about who you are and how you became involved with HDRF.

Louisa Benton: I have been the executive director of HDRF for ten years. I became involved because of my passion for brain science and my commitment to advancing mental health for every American.

VIE: What is Hope for Depression Research Foundation’s mission?

LB: HDRF is the leading nonprofit dedicated exclusively to finding the root causes of depression in the brain and developing new and better treatments. Our research aims to redefine depression treatment at a time when the world needs it most.

VIE: How would you characterize depression or depressive symptoms?

LB: Depression is not just a bad day or feeling blue. Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest that can impair your daily functioning.

Interview by EMME MARTIN | Photography courtesy of HDRF

VIE: Can you share the current statistics on adolescent depression?

LB: Our nation’s young people are facing an unprecedented mental health crisis. Even before the pandemic, rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts were on the rise. The pandemic exacerbated those issues, creating isolation and disrupting learning, relationships, and routines.

• More than one in three high school students have experienced sadness or hopelessness, a 40 percent increase since 2009.

• Every day, almost four thousand children and teens attempt suicide.

• Suicide is the second leading cause of death for teens ages fifteen to nineteen.

• More than half of parents and caregivers express concern over their children’s mental well-being.

VIE: How much of a role has social media played in the recent increase in adolescent depression and other mental health problems?

LB: Findings regarding the impacts of social media on adolescent health are nuanced. However, many clinicians and researchers agree that there are some adolescents who are more vulnerable to screen time than others.

Mental health problems can occur if the teen’s use of social media is not properly balanced with other activities, including exercise, sleep, and time spent—in real life—with other people the teen trusts and loves.

VIE: What specific factors about social media do you believe contribute to the platforms’ roles in declining mental health amongst the youth?

LB: Through social media, teens have 24/7 access to a negative news cycle that creates an atmosphere of existential gloom for not just teens but everyone. Through social media, teens also have infinite opportunities for feeling rejected by their peers, from actual online bullying to not receiving enough “likes” on a post. Kids see everyone on social media seeming to have the time of their lives. They are bombarded with messages through the media and popular culture that erode their self-worth.

VIE: Do you believe there is a healthy way to use social media?

LB: Yes. It is important to bear in mind the new role of smartphones in kids’ lives today as lifelines

Above: Hope for Depression Research Foundation’s executive director, Louisa Benton

“Mental health problems can occur if the teen’s use of social media is not properly balanced with other activities, including exercise, sleep, and time spent in real life with other people the teen trusts and loves.”

to their entire community. Parents need to have a conversation with their children to find a middle ground. They need to come together with their kids to decide on goals and agree on how much screen time is OK. Parents likewise need to be good models of screen time.

VIE: What is an appropriate age for children to join social media platforms?

LB: Experts agree that thirteen would be the absolute minimum; however, it’s difficult to prescribe a precise age limit as kids need to have social and emotional skills to cope with the demands of social media. Also, certain platforms, such as Facebook, require the child to be thirteen by law.

VIE: Can you tell us about some of the recent findings from your research?

LB: Our research team, known as the Depression Task Force, has led the field in the study of brain circuits and molecules that underlie depression. As a result, we have a brand-new category of medication in pilot clinical trials that works differently than the common medications available today. We believe this new medication will help an entire segment of depressed patients who have not responded to conventional SSRI medications. That is because the potential new medication works on different molecules and circuits we’ve recently discovered to be important in depression.

VIE: Do you have hope for the future of depression treatments?

LB: Absolutely. Advances in research and technology are making it possible to identify, treat, and track the signs of depression more precisely than ever before.

This is the most exciting time in the entire history of the field of psychiatry. We have been operating in the dark, without a good understanding of what’s happening in the brain, for the last sixty years. Now the sunlight is really beginning to penetrate our understanding of the brain in ways that are relevant to thinking about the biology of the brain and the treatment of depression. Just as technological advances defined the last century, we believe advances in brain biology will define this century.

Above: Panelists at the Hope for Depression Symposium; HDRF hosts events and seminars to educate guests and assist in fundraising for depression and mental health research programs.

Visit HopeforDepression.org to learn more about the Hope for Depression Research Foundation and find out how you can help or donate to the cause.

Below: In 2010, HDRF launched its Depression Task Force, an outstanding collaboration of leading neuroscientists from research institutions across the US and Canada.

EXPERIENCE IS THE DIFFERENCE

We do what we do because we are passionate about the field of Real Estate and we execute with objectivity. With more than 40 years of experience coupled with our strong community alliances, La Florida has evolved into the ultimate brand for expertise, advice and support.

That’s the La Florida Difference.

32 East County Highway 30A, Suite J

Santa Rosa Beach, Florida Office 850.231.7896 laflorida.com

PHOTOGRAPH BY JEFF LANDRETH

For its Spring 2023 Readyto-Wear fashion presentation, the House of Gucci invited guests to Twinsburg. Here, sixty-eight pairs of twins walked the runway in identical looks, ranging from tailored suits to red-carpet glam. The show reflected identity and otherness, as the twins’ bond represented our need for each other now and always.

Visit Gucci.com to shop or learn more.

Seeing Double

Photo courtesy of Gucci

Mind in Blow g

Benefits of

Anti-Inflammatory Nutrition

By LINDSAY TOBIAS, KEEP YOUR PLANTS ON

Most people think their food can affect superficial things like their weight, their workout, and maybe their energy. But what if I told you that the foods on your plate are influencing your genes, your mental health, anxiety level, skin quality, digestion, aching joints, hair growth, menstrual cycle, signs of aging, resilience and immunity, inflammation levels in your body, and your risk for chronic disease? Every nutrient packed into supplement bottles at your local health store can be found in a more affordable, digestible, and available form through real foods in the perimeter of your grocery store. Yes, it is that powerful; let me prove it to you.

First, what does anti-inflammatory mean?

Anti-inflammatory nutrition means eating a majority of bright, colorful, whole foods that fight free radicals or oxidative stress in the body. Free radicals are your body’s immune response to foreign invaders, and an overload of these free radicals is called oxidative stress. This overload is due to high stress, a blood-sugar roller coaster, highly processed foods, medications, smoking, toxins (in our air, food, home, and water), sluggish detoxification pathways, and more. Inflammation plays a huge role in developing chronic and degenerative diseases, DNA damage, cell damage, premature aging, and more—but I promise there is good news.

The role of food starts to come into focus when you realize how deeply tied your health is to your gut:

· 70 percent of your immune system is found in your gut. 90 percent of your serotonin (your happy chemical) is located in your gut, which is why nutrition can profoundly impact your mental health. Often, you can see the state of your gut on your largest organ, your skin.

· Hippocrates said it best: “All disease starts in the gut.”

Fruits, vegetables, beans, proteins like eggs, poultry, fish, and meat, herbs and spices, and healthy fats like nuts, seeds, high-quality oils, avocados, and coconut are high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These are proven to fight inflammation in our bodies, making us more resilient. Every fruit and vegetable readily accessible in your grocery store is infused with phytochemicals (plant chemicals) that our bodies utilize to heal, regenerate, and protect our cells from damage. One of the most significant benefits of eating radiant, living foods like fruits and vegetables is the welcomed increase in fiber. Fiber is found in almost all natural foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts, seeds) and helps slow the absorption of sugar, keeping your blood sugar and energy levels from spiking and crashing all day. It also adds bulk to your stool and keeps your bowel movements regular (a minimum of one to three per day!), lowers cholesterol levels, and is associated with a reduced risk of all cardiovascular diseases and cancers.

You know that expensive retinol skin-care serum that makes claims to increase your radiance? You can find those same nutrients on your plate. Bright yellow, orange, and leafy green foods like sweet potatoes, carrots, squash, broccoli, and cantaloupe are high in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A (retinol) in the body. Beta-carotene gives a brighter glow to your skin, boosts immunity, and helps your vision.

Olive oil contains a polyphenol called oleocanthal that fights inflammation, cancer, and Alzheimer’s, lowers blood pressure, and strengthens the heart. Oleocanthal is similar to the active ingredients in ibuprofen, and researchers have found that a serving of extra-virgin olive oil can have the same pain-relieving effects as ibuprofen without any side effects.

Left: Lindsay Tobias, certified health coach and founder of Keep Your Plants On

90 percent of your serotonin (your happy chemical) is located in your gut, which is why nutrition can profoundly impact your mental health.

Brain-boosting omega-3 fatty acids found in fish like salmon, tuna, mackerel, cod, herring, and sardines, or in walnuts, chia, flax, hemp, and pumpkin seeds, are inflammation-fighting powerhouses. Studies have shown that these foods can lower blood pressure, cholesterol, cancer risk, and cardiovascular disease risk, increase liver detoxification, and nourish the brain by increasing focus and cognition and decreasing adverse mental health outcomes like depression and anxiety. In fact, a 2010 study showed that omega-3 fatty acids fight pain more effectively than NSAIDs (Aleve, Advil, ibuprofen).

Herbs are the anti-inflammatory heroes that most of our culture has forgotten. Leafy herbs like oregano, parsley, basil, and mint and spices like turmeric, cumin, ginger, peppermint, echinacea, cinnamon, and chili powder can contain up to 200 percent more antioxidants than fruits and vegetables. Eastern cultures have long tapped into the medicinal properties of herbal remedies, using ginseng to boost immunity, brain function, and energy, elderberry to relieve headaches and fight viral infections, and ginger to boost immunity, aid digestion, and fight nausea. Our fast-paced Western culture no longer leans into these remedies,

but they are still accessible and offer us back the reins on our health. In addition to the life-altering powers of these medicinal herbs, they genuinely make food taste delicious.

Let’s take this concept and fit it into your life:

Shop the perimeter. Every time you go grocery shopping, make a goal of shopping along the edge of the store first. Real, anti-inflammatory food has a shorter shelf life because it does not contain preservatives or stabilizers, so you will usually find it in the refrigerator or freezer sections.

Get colorful and creative. Can you make a goal to have at least one colorful fruit or vegetable in every meal? Maybe you can change how you season your veggies by adding more herbs and spices—chop some basil to top your pasta, sprinkle cinnamon in your coffee, or add mint and turmeric to your smoothie! Drizzle your salad with high-quality olive oil, or make a standing tradition of having Salmon Mondays or Tuna Tuesdays to build a healthy routine.

There are a million ways to personalize and enjoy your food, so start where you are and get creative!

Above: Adding a sprig of fresh mint to your water or tea could boost your antioxidants and decrease nausea.

Opposite: Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and walnuts can boost brain health.

Keep up with Lindsay for more wellness tips on her Instagram @keepyourplantson, or visit her website HowtoKeepYourPlantsOn.com to see how you can work with Lindsay through her personalized mind and body health program.

Eastern cultures have long tapped into the medicinal properties of herbal remedies, using ginseng to boost immunity, brain function, and energy, elderberry to relieve headaches and fight viral infections, and ginger to boost immunity, aid digestion, and fight nausea.

LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE

THE TOP 10 CITIES FOR GOOD MENTAL HEALTH

LawnStarter

The study is timely, as the importance of one’s dwelling became all too clear during the recent pandemic. Access to nature’s beauty, quality of mental health resources, and living costs were paramount to making the health crisis a smoother ride for people. Reasonably, these factors still hold heavy precedence more than two years later. But, of course, other things that contribute to one’s quality of living are not contingent on zip code. So, please don’t feel the need to move immediately, but the list is undeniably insightful.

“Sunshine, moderate temperatures, and walks in the park with your BFF (best furry friend)—days like this can make wherever you live a ‘Best City for Mental Wellness,’” says Jeff Herman, editor-in-chief of LawnStarter. “But some cities have more mental health resources, less financial stress, and score As when it comes to getting some Zzzs. That’s why LawnStarter set out to determine 2022’s Best Cities for Mental Wellness among the top two hundred largest US cities.”

In addition to weather, park access, and pet ownership, the team at LawnStarter looked at access to therapists, the cost of living, average sleep levels, meditation classes, and urban gardening friendliness to determine its list. The top ten locations for living in the best state of mental well-being are:

,

known for making lawn care accessible and affordable, compared over 190 of the biggest US cities to rank 2022’s Best Cities for Mental Wellness.

We spoke to Herman to hear more of his thoughts on the findings, and he sprinkled in some valuable wisdom for those whose current home city is not on the list.

VIE:How important is the city someone lives in for their mental health?

Jeff Herman: Your city is a big factor in your mental wellness. Those long commutes can make you stressed or tired, but great schools for your kids can ease your anxiety about their learning. The urban jungle is less inspiring than lots of green space. And ample mental health resources are a big help if or when you need them.

Your city’s weather can affect your mental wellness, too. Four seasons can be a joy, but long, cold winters or weeks of record-breaking summer heat can take a toll on your soul.

YOUR CITY IS A BIG FACTOR IN YOUR MENTAL WELLNESS.

VIE:What factor in a city do you believe has the most significant impact on the population’s mental health?

JH: Green space likely has the biggest impact on a city’s mental wellness. If work has you down or on edge, go for a walk. If the cold has you feeling blue, take a hike—spotting a yellow, white, or purple crocus can make your day.

The ample green space is what I remember and miss most about living in Downtown Indianapolis. Those vast, open grassy areas between the war memorials offer a great respite from the high-rises and development. In addition, walking along the

beautifully landscaped Cultural Trail always lifted my spirits, even when I was walking home from work at midnight.

VIE: Can you explain why the West Coast seems significantly happier than the East Coast?

JH: A lot of sunshine and near-perfect weather in the southern region and natural wonders (beaches, redwoods, and mountains) throughout are big reasons West Coast residents seem happier than their East Coast brothers and sisters. The West Coast also has more meditation centers and more mental health professionals. Add to this the more easygoing West Coast outlook on life and generally more healthy lifestyles, and California, Oregon, and Washington residents are calmer and more fit than many people from New York to Washington, DC.

On both coasts, there’s a lot of hustle (and higher financial costs than elsewhere), but on the West Coast, there’s a bit more flow. A friend driving north from San Francisco claimed the cows are even happier there.

VIE: Why is a list like this one helpful for those looking to improve their lifestyle?

JH: There are things we can do to improve our mental wellness. You don’t have to move to Naperville, Pasadena, or Seattle (numbers one, two, and three on our list) to be happy, and you might not be any happier even if you did.

Our top-ranked cities have a lot going for them and their residents, but mental wellness starts at home. So how can you increase your mental health wherever you live? Take more walks. Get a dog. Hug your spouse and kids. Send a surprise gift to a friend or family member. Take time to watch the sun rise and set each day. Limit your screen time and increase your face-to-face time.

VIE: Do you have any tips for people who want to improve their well-being even though their city is not on the list?

JH: A quick tips list (in addition to the ones above) to be more upbeat about life wherever you live:

• Be grateful. We have so much to be thankful for—our health, families, friends, and jobs. A grateful heart equals a more mentally sound soul.

• Adopt a pet. Seriously, that unconditional love from your dog is priceless, and those times when your cat walks in front of the Zoom camera will make you and your colleagues smile.

• Walk it off. I try to go for a morning walk every day and take photos of the flowers in bloom. Walk after work to calm down—bonus points if it’s at sunset. Walking is good for the mind and body.

• Visit your secret spot. For me, that’s the Rose Garden at Farmers Branch in Dallas. There’s almost always something in bloom, and it’s a great place to think through big decisions.

• Do some good. Volunteer somewhere, help a friend move, or drop off food to a sick friend. Doing good for others really does make you feel good, and that improves your mental wellness.

• Read more. Get off the computer and phone. Open a book and make time to read. You’ll be smarter in life and at work, and if you liked the book, pass it on to a friend afterward.

• Just do it. Don’t mope. Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today. Stay active and get stuff done. You’ll feel happier and amazed at all you can get done in a day.

• Ask for help. Stressed? Anxious? Weighing a big life decision? Friends make my world go around, and knowing I can call them whenever I need to—as I have—is a great comfort.

DO SOME GOOD.

VOLUNTEER SOMEWHERE, HELP A FRIEND MOVE, OR DROP OFF FOOD TO A SICK FRIEND. DOING GOOD FOR OTHERS REALLY DOES MAKE YOU FEEL GOOD, AND THAT IMPROVES YOUR MENTAL WELLNESS.

VIE: Is there anything else you would like to add?

JH: When you’re stressed at home, at work, or financially, ask for help. Your mental wellness is at stake. Friends and family are there to help, but you have other resources, too. If you work for a large corporation, you may have an Employee Assistance Program that can connect you to advisers and counselors. There are also community resources you can turn to.

Beyond that, help is just a call or click away. Call 988, the new Suicide Prevention Hotline, if you feel things are beyond hope. Or reach out to any of the new online sites offering counseling, like Talkspace, and check beforehand to see if your health insurance will cover the costs. If you’re living in a remote area and a far drive from a big city, online counseling can be a lifesaver (literally).

What’s LawnStarter’s connection to mental wellness? Well, mowing the grass and weeding can be like therapy. That definitely was the case for me; I enjoyed pushing the mower and pulling up weeds in my yards in Gainesville, Florida, and St. Louis, Missouri. And if you’re ever down, lie down on the grass and look up at the clouds.

What do you see? It’s even better if you and a friend are looking up together. What does each of you see? I sometimes would do this at Zilker Park when I lived in Austin. Looking at clouds is calming.

Check out LawnStarter for all of your lawn care needs and then some at LawnStarter.com.

A Simple Life

To learn more or plan a visit to Star Bright Farms, visit Starbright-Farm.com or follow them on Instagram @starbrightfarm.

When living on a farm, it’s natural that the interiors of a home would reflect the organic beauty outside. The interiors of this residence on Star Bright Farm, a certified organic herb, lavender, and small fruit farm located in the hills of northern Maryland, are an extension of the 130-acre family business. Star Bright Farm is a destination and inspiration to all who dream of a simpler life surrounded by the elements.

Photo by Helen Norman, owner of Star Bright Farm

ight Good N

By Addie Strickland

Life is busy and demanding of our time. The placement or management of our time is arguably one of the most important factors in staying healthy. To fit everything into our daily lives, sleep is often sacrificed but what else are we sacrificing when we give up sleep? A good night’s rest is vital to our mental and physical health. Our sleep habits are directly related to our immune system, which should encourage us to take our sleep more seriously. It is the first and most natural defense against infections and inflammation.

Throughout a lifetime, a person’s sleep schedule will change depending on the physical need for it. The human body cycles through four stages of sleep throughout the night. The first three stages are considered “non-rapid eye movement” (NREM), and the fourth is “rapid eye movement” (REM). Non-rapid eye movement is divided into three subcategories: N1, N2, and N3. Each stage has a unique function in repairing and rebuilding the brain and body. Your body cycles through all four stages multiple times during the night. A full cycle takes about ninety minutes to complete.

During NREM sleep, your bodily functions begin to slow down to allow the restorative process to begin. The first stage of NREM is the transitionary period between wakefulness and sleep. This is the stage when you start to nod off. Your heart rate, breathing, and brain waves begin to slow. Stage one usually only lasts about five minutes, then your body enters N2; in this stage, your body continues to slow the heartbeat, breathing, and eye movements, but your body temperature also drops in this stage. Most of your sleep is spent in N2. Deep sleep is considered N3; this is when your heart rate and all muscle activity are at their lowest, and experts consider this stage to be the most critical for regenerating your brain and body. NREM stage three allows you to feel rested and refreshed the next day.

After cycling through the three NREM stages, the body enters REM sleep, a state in which your brain activity increases as if you were awake, but the body remains immobile. In REM, your eyes move rapidly, and brain activity lights up, causing you to dream. During the deep sleep of N3 and REM, the replenishing process begins, and the release of growth hormones allows your body to repair itself. A number of hormones are released while we sleep, each with different functions necessary for our awake time. For example, when we sleep, the body produces proteins called cytokines that are responsible for targeting infections and activating the immune system.

The time we spend asleep changes in accordance with our needs. An infant usually sleeps sixteen to eighteen hours per day, and this number gradually decreases over time to where adults average seven to nine hours of sleep per night. Children’s bodies require sleep to grow, physically and mentally. To maintain optimal health, good sleep habits are crucial. One could say sleep is the best medicine, so when we busy ourselves with work or entertainment and ignore sleep, we are robbing ourselves of health, and that sleep debt is hard to pay back. Catching up on sleep seems like the norm on weekends, but those weekday sleep cuts can cost you in the long run in areas such as your blood pressure, metabolism, energy levels, and overall resilience to infections. It is a myth that your body adjusts to sleep deprivation; however, it is possible that your body stabilizes despite the effects of prolonged sleep debt. Still, that doesn’t mean the body is firing on all cylinders. A prolonged case of sleep deprivation can lead to complications with mental health, the cardiovascular system, the immune system, and metabolism.

Improving your sleep quality is a worthy investment for your health that most people will enjoy working on. A few changes to your daily routine can positively impact the length and quality of sleep you get each night. Here are a few tips to add (and some things to avoid) to your nighttime routine:

Establish a sleep schedule.

Decide on a bedtime and wake-up time that will allow you to get seven to nine hours of sleep per night. It’s easy to get wrapped up in a good movie and sacrifice your sleep, but consistency in a sleep schedule will ultimately boost your mood and health. When establishing a routine, use gradual adjustments because change will not happen (metaphorically) overnight.

Cultivate a good sleep environment. Your bedroom, or more importantly, your bed, should be associated with rest. Exclusively use your bed for sleep and sex, and save work and movies for another room. This will create a link in your brain between your bed and sleep. Other factors influencing sleep are noises, electronics, bedding, lighting, temperature, and aroma. All of these play into sleep

“

The enigma of sleep is puzzling because it is different for everyone, but there is an underlying outline we can all follow.”

but do not singularly determine your sleep quality. Sound machines help drown out background noise during sleep to promote better rest. The blue light from your phone and other electronics trick your brain into thinking it’s daytime, suppressing melatonin production. A lower bedroom temperature helps your body feel more drowsy. Make your bedroom, especially your bed, a sleep oasis.

Be conscious of your diet. Going to bed hungry or stuffed will cause disruptions in your sleep. Ideally, you shouldn’t eat for at least an hour or two before bed. Also, use caution when consuming nicotine, alcohol, and caffeine. The stimulating effects of nicotine and caffeine can take hours to wear off, whereas alcohol can make you seem sleepy, but its effects are felt throughout the night as the body is not able to rest like it should because it’s breaking down the alcohol. If you get hungry right before bedtime,

go for healthy snacks like oatmeal, yogurt, or nuts that naturally boost your melatonin level.

Create a GRWM for bed routine.

On social media, GRWM stands for “get ready with me.” Well, now we’re getting ready for bed! Make a habit of taking a shower or bath, brushing your teeth, washing your face, changing into pajamas, listening to soothing music, etcetera. This routine will establish a wind-down rhythm that your brain and body will eventually associate with sleep. Try including mindfulness practices and breathing exercises, as they are great ways to relax the body and quiet the mind.

Write out your thoughts. Why is it that we think of everything we need to do as soon as we lie down? If this happens to you, grab a journal and jot down your thoughts or make yourself a to-do list for the next day. Journaling is good for your mental health, relieving stress and helping you remember those great ideas. Practice it while enjoying a cup of chamomile tea, and let your thoughts flow.

The enigma of sleep is puzzling because it is different for everyone, but there is an underlying outline we can all follow. Science proves that sleep and health are directly related, so it is a component of your overall wellness that can be improved from home—literally from your bedroom. By breaking down sleep myths and learning from others, the healthiest version of ourselves becomes available. Understanding the function and importance of sleep allows for mindful practices to be included in our daily routines. Do yourself a favor and get some sleep!

“

Science proves that sleep and health are directly related, so it is a component of your overall wellness that can be improved from home.”

Sp ng

It was April 2022, and the world was stirring again when essayist and author Kerri Devine became curious about the insights her girlfriends may have gained during the lockdown and what they planned to do next. She hosted dinner for a small group, ages forty to sixty-five, which she called Spring Forward, not just for the season but for a reason: How would they move on after the pandemic ground life to a halt?

ri

in my role as the dean of the Academy of Domestic Pursuits, I was invited to kick off the evening with cocktails and cooking lessons. There is something meaningful about a shared activity that knits people together. While cocktails soothe social situations, sitting around one big round table, having partaken of both pastimes, ensures a good conversation.

As the guests revealed what they had been through, Kerri told a story about her public meltdown in a Hobby Lobby store, an incident that left her feeling

FORWARD

BY SUZANNE POLLAK

shaken and confused. Turning to friends for help, she discovered that not only did others have similar experiences, but they also gave it a name. Her first thought was: WTF, Mom? Why didn’t you tell me about this thing called perimenopause?

As her way to “spring forward,” Kerri created a survey about these symptoms and discovered 99 percent of the one hundred women surveyed

(ages twenty-five to seventy) said they knew very little about the years prior to menopause (feeling that their mothers and doctors didn’t prepare them), and 73 percent said they wanted to hear from other women on what to expect.

With the goal of sparking more open conversation about this transition, Kerri launched “Hot in Charleston” on World Menopause Day, October 18, hosting a lunch for 150 women and a panel discussion between six writers and doctors, which she moderated.

Sharing personal tales that were also relatable, New York Times best-selling author Lee Woodruff told us how life could change in one instant. (Her husband, Bob Woodruff, co-anchor of ABC’s World News Tonight, was severely wounded by a roadside bomb in Iraq.) Essayist and educator Cinelle Barnes shared her own memorable story of a public meltdown. Bringing expertise in medical, nutritional, and behavioral science were Dr. Elaine Eustis, founder of Menopause Solutions in Mt. Pleasant; Dr. Anita Ramsetty, a Charleston-based internist with a nutrition and preventive health specialty; and Dr. Constance “Connie” Guille, founder of the Women’s Reproductive Behavioral Health Division at the Medical University of South Carolina.

We learned that the average age for perimenopause onset is forty-one, and it usually lasts four to eight years. However, for some, that perimenopausal stage can start in their mid-thirties and cover a whole decade. That’s right—ten long years. No matter the length, perimenopause is a challenging time with physical and emotional symptoms, including insomnia, weight gain, brain fog, hot flashes, anxiety, and mood swings, which can also create interpersonal problems. The doctors explained the importance of exercise during this challenging time, and the entire panel emphasized the value of sleep. Lee Woodruff commented that the book Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams (by Matthew Walker, director of the Sleep and Neuroimaging Lab at UC Berkeley) was a life changer for her.

With menopause occurring at an average age of fifty-one (caused by an inherent drop in hormones), we heard that whatever our symptoms may be, they won’t last forever—“only” three to ten years! The doctors explained that while aging for women has negative connotations in our culture, a pro-aging movement is forming, highlighting the liberation from old roles and responsibilities that can come to us if we embrace this as a transitional time, a rite of passage to a new life. The empty nest is empty but can also be incredibly empowering and energizing.

Looking around the room, I could see a similar mood—surprise at what we didn’t know about all of this, with many of us nodding in agreement about what we had experienced. There was also a feeling of

Hot in Charleston founder and author Kerri Devine

SURPRISE AT WHAT WE DIDN’T KNOW, WITH MANY OF US NODDING IN AGREEMENT ABOUT WHAT WE HAD EXPERIENCED, AND A FEELING OF CLOSENESS BECAUSE THE PANELISTS' HONESTY GAVE VOICE TO THINGS WE HAD BEEN WONDERING ABOUT FOR YEARS.

closeness as the panelists’ honesty gave voice to things we had been wondering about for years. I know I felt mesmerized and educated. For example, I was totally wrong in believing I had sailed through menopause with no symptoms just because I didn’t get a hot flash. Instead, I constantly felt cold, which I learned was another symptom—perhaps not as common, but a symptom nonetheless. I came away understanding that whether menopause leaves us burning or freezing, we still share the same life passage.

With more conversation and education, lessening the social stigma of this natural change, the truth about perimenopause and menopause transitions will emerge, and women will know what they can expect. How helpful that would have been for me! I thank goodness that others will have access to real information and, as a result, a better—or at least less bewildering—experience.

Feeling a strong connection with the women at the luncheon, I left with the belief that the earlier we learn what’s happening inside our bodies and minds, the more impact we can have as mentors, doers, and change agents. Let’s also tell our daughters what to expect.

Now that Kerri Devine has established herself at the forefront of these developing conversations taking place after generations of quiet embarrassment, what is she planning to do next?

First, she wants to establish her October 18 World Menopause Day luncheon as an annual event. And she will continue to grow her interest in the universality of a woman’s journey, no matter who we are or where we live. She will write about the moments that feel like endings and how to turn them into beginnings, recognizing that as women, we spend a lot of time in those passages between who we are and who we are becoming. She wants to examine these instructive in-between times and explain that, despite our unique personal histories, we form a bedrock of commonality. When we are willing to talk about our experiences instead of hiding them, we become aware of the connections we share with others in transitional passages, fostering new conversations and ideas about how we plan to Spring Forward.

VISIT HOTINCHARLESTON.COM OR FOLLOW KERRI DEVINE ON INSTAGRAM @HOTINCHARLESTON TO LEARN MORE.

Suzanne Pollak, a mentor and lecturer in the fields of home, hearth, and hospitality, is the founder and dean of the Charleston Academy of Domestic Pursuits. She is the coauthor of Entertaining for Dummies, The Pat Conroy Cookbook, and The Charleston Academy of Domestic Pursuits: A Handbook of Etiquette with Recipes. Born into a diplomatic family, Pollak was raised in Africa, where her parents hosted multiple parties every week. Her South Carolina homes have been featured in the Wall Street Journal Mansion section and Town & Country magazine. Visit CharlestonAcademy. com or contact her at Suzanne@CharlestonAcademy.com to learn more.

WITH MORE CONVERSATION AND EDUCATION, LESSENING THE SOCIAL STIGMA OF THIS NATURAL CHANGE, THE TRUTH ABOUT PERIMENOPAUSE AND MENOPAUSE TRANSITIONS WILL EMERGE, AND WOMEN WILL KNOW WHAT THEY CAN EXPECT.

La maison

WHERE THE HEART IS

When asked how to create such a peaceful environment, Baer explains, “We kept the color palette neutral while layering lots of textures and materials. Indoor-outdoor living is central to the California lifestyle, so we brought in foliage from the outdoors, incorporating moss and twigs alongside live-edge wood furnishings. We were going for a rustic and relaxing vibe while bringing in a few eclectic pieces to create a space of calm and serenity.”

Visit MeridithBaer.com and follow @meridithbaerhome on Instagram to learn more.

Photo by Tyler Hogan

Designed by Meridith Baer and Jennifer Lane of Meridith Baer Home, this coastal California residence exudes serenity.

The Basics of FengShui Organize Your Home for Peace

By Marianne Gordon Intro by Emme Martin

We spend a lot of time in our homes, so it’s a good idea to cultivate a positive space rather than one that brings you down. Luckily, an entire ancient philosophy is based on just that, and you may have heard of it. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, feng shui is “a Chinese geomantic practice in which a structure or site is chosen or configured to harmonize with the spiritual forces that inhabit it.” Feng shui encompasses more than achieving an aesthetic. It is about balancing or optimizing the energy or “chi” in one’s home to align with nature.

The five elements of feng shui—wood, earth, metal, water, and fire—correspond to different components within a space and all provoke different energies. For instance, wood items, such as wooden furniture or plants, symbolize growth and vitality. Water items, such as reflective surfaces or aquariums, represent wisdom and serenity. One can analyze these elements in their home using a Bagua map containing nine quadrants: Wealth, Fame, Love, Family, Health, Children, Wisdom, Career, and Helpful People. A simple way to utilize the map is to overlay it on a floor plan and see what elements could be improved.

If you’re not ready to create your own Bagua map or need help understanding feng shui principles, don’t worry! Allow us to introduce Marianne Gordon, a certified feng shui consultant from the Western School of Feng Shui and a professional member of the International Feng Shui Guild. Gordon specializes in providing easy-to-implement and practical feng shui techniques in the home to help people transform their circumstances and achieve their goals. Check out her eight tips for cultivating a more peaceful home:

1. Minimize your possessions.

The less you have, the more organized and peaceful your place will feel. An environment that’s clear and clean to read brings peace of mind. If you are an artist and need to keep a ton of crafts, dedicate one room to that practice. Also, declutter frequently (I do it every six months).

2. Meditate daily.

Ideally, create a small altar in your home and burn palo santo and herbs, light a candle, pray, or meditate daily. Have your journal and a pen handy and some floor pillows. Jot down your thoughts in meditation.

3. Calculate your Bagua map.

Know which spaces of your home correspond to each area in your life thanks to your Bagua map. My blog explains how to do it in detail. You can also buy my Bagua map course and e-book bundle to implement some techniques in your home that will transform your life!

4. Pay attention to neglected areas. Be mindful of where guests, pets, and kids spend the most time in your house. Pay attention if you notice that an area in your home gets neglected frequently. It often signifies that the site in question needs your attention. Please refer to your Bagua map and notice where that area is (is it my career, love, or wealth corner?). Make changes accordingly.

5. Avoid TVs.

Avoid having TVs in every room, especially the bedroom. TVs dull your ability to create the life you want, as they rob you of your time, but most importantly, they emit positive ions (as do computers, phones, and other devices). Reduce the amount by turning these devices off when not in use. They should never be in your bedroom.

6. Mirrors in the bedroom

Avoid mirrors in the bedroom. They disturb sleep and can create fights if you are in a relationship. In addition, one should avoid broken mirrors, smoked mirrors, or mirrors divided into multiple small mirrors throughout the house.

The five elements of feng shui—wood, earth, metal, water, and fire—correspond to different components within a space and all provoke different energies.

7. Bedroom over the garage . . . Avoid having a bedroom over the garage, as the person in that bedroom might have trouble sleeping.

8. Smudge (burn sage) frequently. Buy or make a smudge stick. Every time you have an illness or an argument, smudge abundantly around the house while reciting your affirmations (kids and pets should not be present, as smudging can irritate their lungs). Leave windows open for a while after smudging. To have sage handy, plant sage in your garden, on your balcony, or indoors and let it grow. Trim a branch when ready, tie it up tightly with household twine, and let it dry upside down. Only use it when it’s completely dry. Always have a pot or pan underneath the stick when you smudge!

Marianne Gordon is available for feng shui consultations, and you can contact her at Marianne@FengShuiWithMe.com or follow her blog and website for more information at FengShuiWithMe.com.

Every time you have an illness or an argument, smudge abundantly around the house while reciting your affirmations.

Full Heart

By JORDAN STAGGS

Photography courtesy of CHRISTOPHER COLLECTION

He studied architecture at Auburn University, where he also played Division I football, so a robust schedule is nothing new for him. Reebals worked at a prestigious firm in Montgomery upon graduation, becoming a lead designer and project architect and learning from some of the best in the business. However, a call to serve others eventually led him to pause his professional design career for a few years.

“I took a hiatus from architecture and worked in vocational ministry with students and young adults, serving as a regional minister to high-security prisons and designing for inner-city housing projects,” Reebals explains.

After getting back into architecture and design full-time, he founded Christopher Kids, a 501(c)3 nonprofit that redesigns bedrooms and creative spaces for children and families with special needs. Its mission is to use the “power of design to improve the overall quality of life. By collaborating with children and their families, we can create the perfect space to foster imagination, hope, and joy.” This could mean designing a playroom where a child with cancer can relax and have fun with his family or reconfiguring a bedroom for a young girl with a neurological condition so she can more easily maneuver her wheelchair and perform daily tasks. The children and families served through Christopher Kids can enjoy their homes and live more conveniently—a blessing the team is thrilled and humbled to provide.

Helping others and forming meaningful relationships are not reserved for Reebals’s service projects. These are the foundations of his work with all clients and customers through the Christopher Collection interior design showroom in Homewood. “At Christopher Collection, we not only value luxury products and design; we also long to create lasting relationships,” he says. “Whether it is our existing clients, designers within the trade program, or new customers just stopping in, we truly believe in creating something beautiful together where, in the end, each person becomes an essential part of the Christopher family.”

As a nationally recognized, awardwinning architect, Chris Reebals of Christopher Architecture & Interiors is a busy man. Between designing new projects, helping children through his nonprofit organization, and running a furniture and home decor retail mecca, his plate is pretty full, but that’s how he likes it.

The Homewood, Alabama, native says he was fascinated by design from a young age, loving that he could use it to express himself through drawing and sketching.

Reebals is a member of the National Council of Architecture Registration Board and the American Institute of Architects, where he serves on the board of directors for Alabama’s largest chapter. He was also recently a finalist for the 2017 and 2018 ADAC’s Southeastern Architect of the Year and recipient of multiple AIA design and national HGTV awards.

As the president and CEO of Christopher Architecture & Interiors (CAI), Reebals has grown the firm from one to twenty-three professionals. Today, CAI is a nationally recognized, multi-discipline firm with offices in Birmingham, New York, and Los Angeles. “Serving clients with a collaborative methodology has established CAI as a premier luxury design firm being featured in local, regional, and national publications,” he shares.

Above: Chris Reebals

We caught up with Reebals after his interview on VIE Speaks: Conversations with Heart & Soul podcast hosted by Lisa Marie Burwell to get more information on Christopher Collection and some of CAI’s projects in Northwest Florida’s coastal communities along Scenic Highway 30-A.

VIE: Tell us about your connection to the 30-A area and some of your favorite projects here.

Chris Reebals: Since the beginning of my architecture journey, I knew I wanted to design projects in the 30-A community. The area has a deep appreciation for luxurious design and has successfully established a presence that values elegant and thoughtful architecture. We are currently working on a few projects in the 30-A area, and our goal is to contribute to the beautiful design that has been developed there so far.

VIE:What is your favorite part of designing a home or curating for the Christopher Collection?

CR: My favorite part of designing a home is capturing the wants and needs of our clients through elevated and unique design. I want to make my clients’ dream homes become a reality while paying close attention to detail, materiality, and elegance that transcends time.

In the same way, when we source for the store, we have our clients in mind and always think of the best pieces to complete their homes. Whether through antiques that tell beautiful stories of the past or inspiring works of art that become the focal point of a room, our

collection is curated with timeless pieces to complement our clients, their homes, and our brand.

VIE:How does the location or style of a home influence the decor? Would you say Christopher Collection has a signature “look”?

CR: Our goal at Christopher Architecture & Interiors is to have the architecture and design of a home seamlessly blend with the interior. As CAI has grown, we have created our signature look and design experience. This look led us to create our sister brand and luxury retail store, Christopher Collection, which opened in July 2021. The idea behind the Christopher Collection was to allow curated pieces found in our custom homes to be available to all who are drawn to our brand. The Christopher Collection signature look originates from over ninety-nine combined years of design experience of the CAI team.

VIE: Where can readers shop the Christopher Collection? What can they expect to find there (in-store and online)?

CR: You can shop Christopher Collection online at ChristopherCollection.com, or if you are in Birmingham, Alabama, you can visit our store at 2913 Linden Avenue in Homewood. Our store ranges from antiques, art, kitchenware, barware, bedding, and upholstery to lighting, furniture, gift items, jewelry, and more. We have it all!

I choose pieces that speak to me and evoke emotion. My goal is to find items that encompass the Christopher brand. It is the best feeling going online or walking into the store and seeing products that inspire me.

VIE:What do you love about antiques, and what do you think are some of the best ways to find them or incorporate them into a modern home?

CR: I love that antiques tell a story, hold a different quality than new pieces, and bring character to modern spaces. There is something special about finding curated pieces to add to a collection. At Christopher Collection, we have a great selection of antiques directly sourced from all over the world. We love sourcing from Europe, but in a pinch, we also enjoy sourcing from Round Top, Texas. Antiques hold a sentimental feeling that cannot be bought or created. They also help connect us to history and the people who came before us. Adding antiques to a modern home helps spread the patina throughout a space so that the juxtaposition between old and new is balanced and fresh.

My favorite part of designing a home is capturing the wants and needs of our clients through elevated and unique design.

VIE:Tell us about some of the photographers and artists you work with. Who are some standouts or best-sellers?

CR: Some standout artists and photographers we carry at Christopher Collection include photographer David Yarrow, sculptor Paige Bradley, and artist Simon Bull. All three of these artists are world-renowned for their work, and it is an honor to carry their pieces at the Christopher Collection. David Yarrow is best known for his black-and-white wildlife photography, Paige Bradley is best known for her unique sculpture technique using mixed media of bronze and illumination, and Simon Bull is best known for his bold use of color.

VIE:Do you have any fun events or collaborations coming up?

CR: We recently had the privilege of hosting a book signing with David Yarrow. It was a wonderful event with an artist we are incredibly honored to partner with. We were proud to have the Birmingham community celebrate his latest book of works.

Christopher Collection is also participating in several show houses—two in the Birmingham area and one in Atlanta. Each room has a different design aesthetic with products from our store. It is exciting to see art, furniture, and accessories from the store being used in various types of rooms and styles.

VIE:Thank you, Chris!

Visit ChristopherAI.com, ChristopherCollection.com, and ChristopherKid.org to learn more. Follow CAI’s projects and more on Instagram @christopherai and @christophercollection, and listen to his interview with Lisa Marie Burwell on VIE Speaks Episode #30 via your favorite podcast listening platform. Visit the Christopher Collection showroom at 2913 Linden Avenue, Homewood, Alabama 35209.

Maroma is a Belmond Collection Hotel located on the dazzling shores of the Riviera Maya in Mexico. The resort’s highly anticipated reopening in May 2023 will offer guests an authentic, artisanal design rooted in the history of the land through traditional craftsmanship and careful sourcing.

Visit Belmond.com to learn more or to reserve your stay.

Texture Petite pause

and VIEMAGAZINE.COM | 83

Photo courtesy of Belmond

To view more of Stapleton’s work, visit SamStapletonPhotography.com.

by Sam Stapleton

La beauté

IT’S ALL AROUND US

Photo

Wildlife photographer Sam Stapleton studies the disparity between the delicate beauty of flowers and a rigid environment in his still-life series, which showcases soft florals— Peruvian lilies, in this case—frozen in ice. He illuminates each arrangement from underneath to highlight the details in the flowers and ice, giving a closer look he hopes will encourage viewers to examine the contrasting elements.

for

Art Art’s Sake

Modern Fashion Illustration with Holly Nichols

Art touches our lives in many ways. If you are a lover and fan of fashion and art, you may have heard of Boston-based artist and illustrator Holly Nichols. Her tutorial videos on TikTok and Instagram draw millions of viewers every month. Nichols’s art is inspirational to a wide and diverse following, as her many followers on social media would attest.

Her unique stylized presentation draws you in, mesmerizing with her use of color, effects, markers, and paper. Her videos inspire young and old to try their hands at creating art. At the core of it all is her love of fashion.

I asked Nichols her thoughts on fashion and its effect on society. She told me, “Fashion is everywhere. It is political, it is emotional, it is art. I vehemently oppose the thought that a career in fashion is frivolous, which it is often considered. The smartest businesspeople I know work in fashion.”

By

Laurette Ryan Artwork by Holly Nichols

Illustrator and author of Modern Fashion Illustration

Holly Nichols

Photo by Gina Tremblay

Above and opposite bottom: Photo by Gina Tremblay

Opposite top: Together

We Shine illustration by Holly Nichols

Nichols explains, “One of fashion illustration’s earliest uses was to enable designers to show their work to clients as ideas on paper. Today, I employ it as ‘art for art’s sake,’ meaning I create it as art without the utility of the piece being turned into a physical garment. My goal is to depict not only beautiful fashion but also subjects and people you don’t traditionally see represented in fashion or art. The best feeling is when someone tells me they see themselves in my work.”

Nichols’s work sparks interest in creativity in some of her youngest followers. She told me it was the most fulfilling part of her job. “I have a little folder saved of notes from parents of children who share their child’s design process. They often include a photo of the child smiling ear to ear, proudly holding up his or her work. I love that kids explore art without inhibition. It is only later that the fear of imperfection gets in the way.”

She began creating as a child herself. “I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t making art—it has very much been a big part of my life,” Nichols relates. “My

family has always been very supportive of my work. My mother took me to a Mary Cassatt exhibit at Boston’s Museum of Science, which made a big impression on me. It gave me the first glimpse of a professional female artist. From there, I enrolled in private art lessons, a high school arts-focused program of study, and later graduated with my BFA in Fine Arts.”

In 2019 Nichols was approached to do a book. Modern Fashion Illustration is a how-to guide with step-by-step instructions on the art and promotion of fashion illustration.

“I have always loved teaching. In past years, I would give my social media followers little snippets of tutorials, but I had always held back on how much I shared—to protect my process to a certain degree. Then I was presented with the opportunity to publish a book. I worked on it all through COVID lockdowns, and it was published in 2021. The book finally felt like a method of sharing my process that was fair to me. But it also opened my process for artists to discover their love for fashion illustration. I love hearing that young children enjoy the book. I also hear a lot from parents or older adults who had to step away from their artistic passions when life got in the way but found a return to their art through my book. Hearing that I’ve inspired someone to discover his or her creative process is endlessly rewarding.”

Nichols has created illustrations and campaigns for TRESemmé, Saks Fifth Avenue, Barneys New York, Neiman Marcus, and Disney, to name a few. “My work is heavily inspired by fashion, particularly couture. I love the detail, the drama—just the ‘extra-ness’ of it all.” Nichols’s favorite designers include Elie Saab, Christian Dior (his original work), and Guo Pei.

My goal is to depict not only beautiful fashion but also subjects and people you don’t traditionally see represented in fashion or art. The best feeling is when someone tells me they see themselves in my work.

he has adeptly used social media to grow and expand the reach of her work. “I would not have a business or career without social media—for better or worse,” she adds. “I started an Instagram feed back in 2013, which quickly took off. It exposed me to a global audience, where I was able to attract big-name brand clients, which was unfathomable to me at the time. I have maintained a substantial Instagram following since. Last November, I started a TikTok account. Social media is very video-dominated at the moment. My work always got high traction, but through that platform, I experienced a rate of virality I didn’t know was even possible. I quickly grew my overall followers across all platforms to around eight million followers. It blows my mind that eight million people have seen some of my videos! I am a very quiet, private person in all other senses, so it’s a very strange feeling to comprehend. I am endlessly grateful for the opportunities social media has brought me.”

I asked Nichols what her most memorable fashion illustration project was so far in her career. “My favorite partnership to date was working with TRESemmé for New York Fashion Week. I have been many times since, but that experience allowed me my first glimpse of fashion week, both working backstage sketching hair and beauty looks while models and stylists frantically prepared for the show, and from the audience, where I quickly sketched the looks as the models walked the runway. I imagine I looked like a deer in the headlights at the time—I was quite young!”

Nichols advises aspiring artists: “Your art will evolve over time. Let go of the idea that you need to find your style or monetize your creation process to be considered an artist. Everyone can be an artist—all it takes is creative thought.”

Visit HNicholsIllustration.com or follow @hnicholsillustration on Instagram to see more.

Laurette Ryan is a successful business owner, coach, and lecturer in the fitness and wellness industries with over forty years of coaching individuals to reach their health and lifestyle goals. Author of Fit to be Tied, a Pilates cozy mystery; The Flying Meerkat Poems; Basic Cuing for Pilates Teachers; Ready for Pilates for Everybody; The Professional Pilates Teacher’s Handbook; and The Pilates Mat Coloring Book, she enjoys writing articles on wellness and motivation and meeting interesting, creative people.

It’s 2023, and investing in your self-care routine has never been more in style. Aside from being a wellness trend, self-care has also been proven to reduce stress and increase happiness. We curated this C’est la VIE to inspire loving yourself through blissful accessories, celebrated self-help books, and beauty products that indulge the senses. Products are by no means necessary for creating an effective self-care routine, but they can enhance it. So indulge when you can—you deserve it!

Kin Euphorics

Gro

I Own My Magic: Self-Talk for Black Women: Affirmations for Self-Care and Empowerment by G. Michelle Goodloe $16 – BarnesandNoble.com

Mary at the Disco

Disco Mary Jane Platform in Espresso Faux Croc $995 – BrotherVellies.com

Vada

Flower Power 8

The Bouquet Bag $20 – SB-DesignStudio.com

Silky Smooth

La Mer Crème de la Mer, 2 oz. $380 – CremedelaMer.com

Chloé Nama Embroidered Suede and Recycled-Mesh Sneakers $795 – NET-A-PORTER.com

It’s Your Life 9

BIGGER, BETTER, BOLDER: Live the Life You Want, Not the Life You Get by Jennifer Cohen $29 – Amazon.com

Light Loop

Candle Holder “Ring” Sculpture in Ivory $73 – FiveandDime.com

On a Soapbox

Aesop Reverence Duet Hand Wash and Balm $127 – NET-A-PORTER.com

GOOPGLOW Microderm Instant Glow Exfoliator $125 – Goop.com

Jo Malone London Mr. Malone Travel 3-Piece Body Wash, Lotion & Cologne Set $250 – SaksFifthAvenue.com

Bang Bang

Roxanne Assoulin Colour Therapy Enamel and Gold-Tone Bracelets, Set of 8 $105 – NET-A-PORTER.com

Well-Nourished

To learn more or book your stay, visit TheAllison.com.

Sublimely situated among the natural beauty of Oregon’s Willamette Valley, The Allison Inn & Spa offers an escape from the monotony of everyday life. The property’s onsite restaurant, JORY, embraces a farm-to-table theme achieved through an acre-and-a-half garden and greenhouse. Every morning, the ripest vegetables are picked and woven into the daily menu, allowing guests to experience the splendor of local agriculture. The grounds are also open to guests for garden therapy, as the slow pace offers a sense of peace.

Photo courtesy of The Allison Inn & Spa

Bon appétit!

THE ESSENCE OF LIFE

Visit PLANTArestaurants.com or follow @planta on Instagram to learn more.

PLANTA is the modern epitome of plant-based dining. Founded by Steven Salm and executive chef David Lee, the innovative plant-based restaurant brand reimagines and revitalizes natural foods into beautiful dishes that nourish, inspire, and sustain not only appetites but also the planet. These banana waffles on the brunch menu at PLANTA South Beach in Miami—topped with toasted pecans, maple syrup, and chocolate sauce—look good enough to make us say goodbye to non-plant-based foods forever!

Photo courtesy of PLANTA South Beach

By Dr. Bart Precourt

Biohacking made simple!

When we use the phrase biohack, don’t think “shortcut”—think “proven effective.” When we stack our proven and effective health habits, we begin biohacking. This concept is built on the idea that the body is a self-healing mechanism. It wants to function optimally and feel good. Often our best action is not to interfere.

ne of the most common questions

I get these days is, “What’s the best biohack for (fill in the blank)—weight loss, longevity, energy?”

What’s great is that we are in a time when science and health strategies are finally starting to come together. Often health strategies are years in front of science, or sometimes even decades. Ultimately, these biohacks are valuable because they help eliminate the guesswork. They are proven, tested, and helpful.

The downside is that many newer biohacks can be expensive and often only available to some.

However, the list you’re about to read has virtually no obstacles to prevent you from incorporating them immediately. Essentially, they come at no cost but the cost of effort.

Let’s first clear up some myths about biohacks. They are not shortcuts; they are just proven effective. Mostly they are not “one-and-done” actions. They are designed to become habits, and then they can be life-changing.

As you read the list, think about stacking. Stacking one simple biohack onto the next is how we become superhuman—one good health habit stacked on top of another.

7 Simple BioHacks:

Watch the Sun come Up

Watching the sunrise each day is an old-school habit of getting grounded and resetting your circadian rhythm. This helps balance hormones, improves sleep cycles, elevates mood, and boosts immune function. Better said, you are happier and healthier when practicing this simple habit.

Drink water first thing when you rise.

It’s instant liver support! Your liver is the most important organ for energy. By drinking water first thing, you help detox the liver, clear your lymphatic system, and boost metabolism. Every cell in your body needs water; give your cells something to be happy about. Adding a little lemon or sea salt raises the bar even more.

Try intermittent fasting and cut snacking.

Give your gut a chance to heal. If we are constantly snacking and eating, our gut is always working, with no healing time—instead, fast daily for at least twelve hours. With experience, you can increase over time. Fasting starts from the last time you eat at night until you eat the next morning. Stick to just two or three meals per day with no snacking. The significant side effects include weight loss, balanced hormones, more energy, mental discipline, and a clear mind.

Practice nose breathing.

This is powerful! Take at least three minutes per day and practice inhaling and exhaling through your nostrils. Eventually, build up to where you are predominately a nostril breather, not a mouth breather. This improves brain focus, calms the nervous system, filters the air, and can even reduce snoring.

Exhaling via your nostrils requires a calmer state of being—the reason this biohack is part of many anxiety protocols.

Move daily. Movement changes lives! The more flexibility, strength, and balance you have, the longer and better you live. Conversely, the more sedentary you are, the faster you age. Tightness is massively overlooked as a key marker in the aging process. Being able to move is a gift, so don’t waste it. Movement promotes health. Simple movements like walking are often overlooked. People who exercise and get outside have fewer doctor visits. That should say enough.

Ultimately, these biohacks are valuable because they help eliminate the guesswork.

They are proven, tested, and helpful.

Below: Prema and Balance Health Studio owners Kelli James Precourt and Dr. Bart Precourt

Photo courtesy of Balance Health Studio

The greatest biohacks are the fundamentals. Foundations are the key. Choose to take deliberate action for your mind, body, and overall wellness. Be awesome!

Uplift others daily. This is one of my favorites. Plan on uplifting at least three people every day. If you want to help make the world better, put this biohack into action ASAP! Choose to become great at edifying and complimenting others. Choose to see something great in everyone you encounter and tell them! It’s been shown that when you’re kind and spread love, both the sender and the receiver reap health benefits. It’s especially beneficial for people experiencing high blood pressure or anxiety. Spreading love is contagious.

Eat real food.

This is the fastest-acting biohack on this list. Change your diet to eating real foods and remove the toxic processed foods. Essentially, get out of the way. You will quickly be reminded of how great your body truly is. You were created to have plenty of energy and to be self-healing, creative, and passionate. Yet if we fill our vessels with toxins and chemicals, eventually, those attributes slowly slip away. Our energy dips, we become less passionate about life, and pain, sickness, and disease often enter our life. Toxins and chemicals crush human vitality. Fortunately, at any point, you can move in the direction of eating cleaner, and good things are on the horizon. Start small and start today!

The greatest biohacks are the fundamentals. Foundations are the key. Choose to take deliberate action for your mind, body, and overall wellness. Be awesome!

Keep up with Dr. Bart and learn more at Balance30a.com.

BY COLLEEN SACHS

VEGAN Charcuterie BOARD

A PLANT-BASED SPIN ON THE TREND

love food. My memories of places I have traveled have always been as much about the food as the scenery. Whether cooking or eating out, I find joy in what I eat. And I am not a picky eater—other than my aversion to having milk on my cereal (when I was a child, my mother gave me a bowl of cereal and a glass of milk instead of combining them), there are very few edibles I wouldn’t try. So last year, when it became clear that I needed to stop eating dairy and eggs because of allergies, it took time to adjust to having limits on what I eat. I didn’t know if I could cook without those ingredients. So, I researched recipes without eggs and dairy and found a treasure trove of vegan and plant-based cookbooks, magazines, and websites. I learned how to make delicious food and decided to take the final step by eliminating all animal products from my diet.

I found I was in good company. More and more people are going plant-based, whether for their health or their concern for animals and the environment. It is easier than ever, thanks to an abundance of products at grocery and specialty stores, restaurant menus with vegan options that are much more than an afterthought, and excellent restaurants that serve only vegan fare.

Understanding that it is possible to have wonderful food made without animal products inspired me to get into the kitchen and start experimenting. While I enjoy things like tempeh and tofu—what my darling spouse refers to as “sticks and twigs”—I wanted to make food my omnivore friends would enjoy without feeling like they were

missing anything. To that end, I created a vegetable, “cheese,” and “meat” board made entirely from plantbased foods.

I start with a recipe for plant-based mozzarella. I have been a cheese fanatic since I learned about the cheese course at a restaurant in Amsterdam when I was about eight years old. The mozzarella is incredibly easy to make and much better than the commercially available vegan versions I have tried. The mozzarella is followed by a Hungarian Liptauer cheese spread. Next, I added some pickled vegetables for crunch and zest and finished up with Spanish-style chorizo sausage with all the bold flavor of the traditional meat version. Add some dried fruit, nuts, and crackers, and you have a board perfect for a winter get-together!

Tip: While I am generally of the opinion that you can cook most things without special equipment, I have learned that a powerful blender is necessary to get the smoothest results for many plant-based recipes. It doesn’t have to be an expensive brand, but it needs to pack a punch.

Vegan Mozzarella

This recipe is nothing short of food alchemy. It is fascinating to see a cup of crunchy cashew nuts transform into a ball of cheese with the tangy flavor and soft texture of buffalo mozzarella. The lemon juice gives the cheese a fresh quality, while the nutritional yeast provides the cheesy umami note. When I use it in lasagna or on pizza, I make a larger ball you can slice. For salads, I make them the size of bocconcini or cherry tomatoes. They can be eaten as soon as they are cool and will keep in the refrigerator for a week wrapped in plastic wrap or a day or two stored in water.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup raw cashews

• 1 cup water, plus more for soaking cashews

• 6 Tablespoons tapioca flour

• 2 Tablespoons lemon juice or 1 teaspoon lactic acid

• 2 teaspoons nutritional yeast

• 1 Tablespoon kosher salt

• Equipment: blender, spring-loaded scoop

DIRECTIONS

Place cashews in a container and fill it with water until it is two inches above the cashews. Let soak for 12 hours.

Have a large bowl filled with ice and water ready. Drain the cashews and place them in the blender. Add 1 cup of water and the remaining ingredients. Process for 2 to 5 minutes until very smooth.

Transfer to a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently so the mixture doesn’t stick to the bottom. As the mixture comes together and starts to thicken, it will look very lumpy. The lumps will smooth out as you stir. Once the mixture is very thick and starts to pull away from the bottom and sides of the saucepan, remove it from the heat.

While the mixture is still hot, use a spring-loaded scoop to drop balls of the mixture into the bowl of ice and water. Keep the balls of mozzarella in the water until completely cooled.

For best results, wrap the cheese in plastic wrap. It will keep for one week this way and gets easier to slice after a day or two. Alternatively, keep it for a day or two in a container filled with water.

“

Vegan Liptauer Cheese Spread

I first had this Hungarian cheese spread three decades ago at Sandor’s European Cuisine in Seagrove Beach, Florida. Thanks to its creamy texture and bright seasoning, it was love at first bite. I am thrilled that, once again, I can enjoy Liptauer. This recipe makes about two cups of spread and will keep in the refrigerator for a week. It is even better the day after it is made and all the flavors have had time to hang out together.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups raw cashews

• 1/4 cup water, plus more for soaking

• 2 Tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/2 cup vegan butter, softened (optional)

• 1 teaspoon (about 2–3 cloves) garlic, minced with a sprinkle of salt until a paste forms

• 1/4 cup onion, minced

• 2 Tablespoons of capers, chopped

• 2 teaspoons ground caraway

• 4 teaspoons sweet paprika

• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

• Equipment: blender

DIRECTIONS

Place cashews in a container and fill it with water until it is two inches above the cashews. Let soak for 12 hours.

Drain the cashews and place them in the blender. Add 1/4 cup of water, lemon juice, salt, and butter. Process for 2 to 5 minutes until very smooth.

Place the mixture in a medium bowl and add the garlic, capers, caraway, paprika, and mustard. Fold in the ingredients until well incorporated.

Serve chilled on crackers or use as a dip for vegetables or chips.

This recipe is nothing short of food alchemy. It is fascinating to see a cup of crunchy cashew nuts transform into a ball of cheese with the tangy flavor and soft texture of buffalo mozzarella. ”

Pink Onions

These pickled onions are so pretty with their pastel pink color. They are a breeze to make and will keep in the refrigerator for four weeks. They are sweet and tart and are excellent on sandwiches, salads, and crackers with cheese.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups of thinly sliced red onion

• 1 cup apple cider vinegar

• 1 cup sugar

• 2 cups water

• 2 teaspoons black peppercorns (optional)

DIRECTIONS

Place the onions in a medium bowl.

Add everything except the onion to a small saucepan and bring it to a boil. Be sure to stir from time to time so the sugar doesn’t stick to the bottom of the saucepan. Once the mixture comes to a boil, pour it over the onions and let it cool to room temperature. Once cool, transfer the onions and liquid to a glass container and refrigerate.

Pickled Cauliflower, Carrots, and Jalapeños

These are my favorite pickles. They can be made with just a few minutes of effort and enough time to cool. The coriander seeds are wonderfully fragrant, while the jalapeños provide zip. They are just the right amount of sweet and tangy. If you want a less spicy pickle, remove the seeds and membrane from the jalapeños or omit them if you prefer. Other vegetables can be used here, so mix and match your favorites. If you like crunchy pickles, make them as described below. If you want a softer pickle, blanch the cauliflower and carrot for 1 to 2 minutes before adding the pickling liquid. They will keep for about four weeks in the refrigerator (but they will probably disappear long before that).

INGREDIENTS

• 1 head of cauliflower

• 3 large carrots

• 1 1/2 cups white wine vinegar

• 1 cup water

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns

• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 1/4 cup sugar

DIRECTIONS

Place the vegetables in a glass container (I use two large canning jars).

Add the remaining ingredients to a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Be sure to stir from time to time so the sugar doesn’t stick to the bottom of the saucepan. Once the mixture comes to a boil, pour it over the vegetables and let it cool to room temperature. Once cool, refrigerate.

Vegan Chorizo

I love Spanish chorizo. I grew up eating it in soups and rice dishes, and I always tried to sneak a slice or two before it went into the pot. This plant-based version is incredibly close to the original. The texture is firm but not quite as chewy, and the flavor is right on point. Pimentón (smoked paprika) provides smokiness and that deep red color. Fresh and powdered garlic team up for a layered taste. A touch of white wine adds just the right amount of acidity. If you don’t drink wine, replace it with 3 tablespoons of water and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. The coconut oil starts to solidify as it cools, making it act much the way pork fat does in the original. This recipe takes a bit more effort than the others but is well worth it. It is delicious on its own, but to add it to other dishes, heat it in a skillet and add it halfway through cooking so it retains its shape. It will keep for a week in the refrigerator.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 tablespoons refined coconut oil

• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped

• 3 Tablespoons (about 8 cloves) garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup pimentón (smoked paprika)

• 1/4 cup texturized vegetable protein

• 1/4 cup white wine

• 2 Tablespoons soy sauce

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 2 teaspoons oregano

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2/3 cup vital wheat gluten

• Equipment: kitchen twine, parchment paper, steamer basket, sushi mat (optional)

DIRECTIONS

In a medium skillet, melt the coconut oil. Add the onion and cook, stirring frequently, until it begins to brown. Then stir in the garlic and remove from the heat.

In a large mixing bowl, place the pimentón, texturized vegetable protein, white wine, soy sauce, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and salt. Stir in the onion and garlic.

Add the vital wheat gluten and stir until it is completely incorporated and forms a dough. Place the dough on a piece of parchment paper and knead for 3 to 4 minutes. Note that the pimentón can stain wood and fabrics. It will wash off hands easily with soap and water.

Separate the dough into two portions.

Place a piece of parchment paper about 8 inches long and 15 inches wide on your work surface. Form a log about the diameter of a quarter near the top of the paper and roll the paper around the dough. A sushi mat can be helpful here. Tie one end of the paper with the twine. Smooth the log, pressing out as much air as possible, then tie the other end. It will look a bit like a Christmas cracker. Add one more tie in the middle.

Add water to the pot you will steam the sausages in and place the bundles in the steamer basket. Steam for 1 hour. Once cool, the chorizo is ready to eat. It slices best when chilled. It tastes best when warm or at room temperature.

“

More and more people are going plant-based, whether for their health or their concern for animals and the environment.”

water is life

A return to lasting, vibrant health lies in the basics of how we take care of ourselves daily. It’s about nourishing our bodies with bioavailable foods, removing toxins from our homes that leach into our skin, and, most importantly, ensuring the quality of water we drink.

Story and photography by Hunter Burgtorf

We all want to be the epitome of health. We buy fancy skin-care products, go to classes such as Pilates and HIIT religiously, and look into every new-age trend as soon as it hits the market. For what? A sliver of a chance to be timeless. An elegant adage that tells us we’re the lucky ones. Face-to-face with our mortality, we put our faith into every dazzling thing as the next great way to look and feel younger. But the problem is, we’re missing out on the real secret: health and beauty come from a more foundational approach. We can layer all the creams and try all the juice fasts, but if we don’t have a strong structure, then what’s the point?

The water we consume today is infested with all kinds of contaminants, such as nitrates, arsenic, E. coli, and fecal material (ew!), to name a few. In reality, the

“When you drink this kind of supercharged water, you’re experiencing hydrogen broken down to a level that is easily absorbed into the bloodstream.

EPA estimates that over sixty thousand chemicals are currently used in water in the US. Meanwhile, the Safe Drinking Water Act only oversees ninety-one contaminants.

If you’re health- or eco-conscious, you may think this doesn’t apply to you because you have a purification or reverse osmosis system or bring your water bottle everywhere. But these types of water can also do damage by removing essential minerals for growing strong bones and filtering water through dangerous aluminum levels that could lead to degenerative diseases.

In addition, we’re chronically dehydrated as a society because water alone can’t break the barriers to hydrate our bodies on a cellular level. A 2015 study from Scotland’s St. Andrews University looked at various beverages to find exactly which one is the most hydrating and learned that regular water is missing key elements to absorb properly in human bodies, including fat, salt, and sugar. So, what’s the solution?

I believe it’s drinking electrolyzed-reduced water filled with molecular hydrogen, produced through a properly filtered system that doesn’t remove crucial minerals your body needs. Molecular hydrogen (H2) is an antioxidant that diffuses across cell membranes and can reduce free radicals, suppressing oxidative stress. When you drink this kind of supercharged water, you’re experiencing hydrogen broken down to a level that is easily absorbed into the bloodstream.

While you can’t just go out to a creek or put in a simple filter to access this healing water, you can get it from a water ionizer machine that produces six different types of pH-adjusted water. These types of water can do anything from disinfecting your counters to giving your skin a fantastic glow, being used as a laundry detergent, watering your plants, and more.

For example, the 11.5 pH level setting is an oil emulsifier and can be used as a makeup remover, to wash pesticides off produce, to remove stains, and more. The 6.0 pH setting, which is the same pH level as rainwater, skin, and hair, can be used for conditioner, skin toner, and fabric softener and replace window and mirror cleaners. The 2.5 pH setting is hypochlorous acid and is used as an antibacterial cleaner in hospitals, hand sanitizer, and deodorant, as well as to treat skin conditions such as fever blisters, psoriasis, and acne. The 7.0 pH setting is clean drinking water for baby formula and taking medication. And finally, you can use the 8.5–9.5 pH settings for cooking, losing weight, boosting athletic performance, enhancing recovery, and, ideally, drinking. To put it in perspective, the antioxidant levels of drinking an

Opposite: The antioxidant levels of drinking an eight-ounce glass of 9.5 pH water are the equivalent of eating one thousand blueberries.

Above: Writer, photographer, and wellness guru

Hunter Burgtorf with her at-home electrolyzed-reduced water system

eight-ounce glass of 9.5 pH water are the equivalent of eating one thousand blueberries.

“But isn’t this the same as those alkaline bottled waters I can buy at the grocery store?”

No, this is far from it. Alkaline water has undergone a chemical change, meaning substances were added to raise the pH level above 7. Ingredients include sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), dipotassium phosphate, magnesium sulfate, calcium, chloride, and electrolytes. Alkalized water (electrolyzed-reduced water) has undergone an electrical change by being run across electrically charged plates. This changes the ratio of OH- to H+ ions, making the water either alkaline or acidic. Again, the only ingredient is water.

When you invest in a water ionizer machine, you’re investing in your health and well-being for the next twenty-plus years. You’re also reducing your need for single-use plastics and doing your part to better the environment. Health is wealth. And when we break down the actual layers needed to thrive, we return to those fundamental principles of nourishing ourselves thoroughly, hydrating ourselves efficiently, and empowering ourselves to be influential beings in our communities and beyond.

If you’d like to learn more about water ionizer machines, please email Hunter Burgtorf at hello@hunterburgtorf.com.

Alkaline water has undergone a chemical change, meaning substances were added to raise the pH level above 7.

“

Brazilian designer Patricia Bonaldi demonstrated her keen eye for details and flattering silhouettes in the Spring 2023 collection for her namesake brand, PatBo. The glamorous presentation featured denim, shimmering fringe, cutouts, florals, and defined waists, with every look further solidifying the label as a fashion week mainstay.

Visit PatBo.com to shop or learn more.

Photo by Dan Lecca

BY MYLES MELLOR

—Mahatma Gandhi

Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.

“ ”

THE PRIDE OF A MASTER CRAFTSMAN

When old-world craft meets new-world technology, an unprecedented level of quality is birthed. At E. F. San Juan, the quality and long-term function of our woodwork are the keys to creating elements that will transform a house into your dream home.

ARCHITECT: GEOFF CHICK & ASSOCIATES | PHOTOGRAPHY: JACK GARDNER

CARNIVALE DU VIN WEEKEND 2022

Celebrating its twentieth year of work, the Emeril Lagasse Foundation hosted the annual Carnivale du Vin weekend in New Orleans on November 4 and 5, 2022. The brainchild of Chef Emeril Lagasse and his wife, Alden, the nonprofit foundation aims to create opportunities to inspire, mentor, and enable youth to reach their full potential through culinary, nutrition, and arts education. Carnivale du Vin included a beneficiary luncheon, a patrons’ celebration, a grand main event at The Fillmore, and a live auction featuring premier winemakers. The foundation recently announced it raised $2.2 million in 2022.

Chef Emeril Lagasse with participants of Emeril Lagasse Foundation’s culinary education programs who prepared the annual beneficiary luncheon

Photography courtesy of Emeril Lagasse Foundation

Emeril Lagasse, Vina Lien Le, E.J. Lagasse, Wilfred Liautaud, and Aaron Sanchez Bill and Pam Burden

Emeril, Alden, and Meril Lagasse

Emeril and participants from the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts

Chef Emeril Lagasse

CHARLESTON LITERARY FESTIVAL 2022

The Charleston Literary Festival was founded in 2017 by the Charleston Library Society in the US and the Charleston Trust in the UK. The festival is now an independent nonprofit organization with events each November in Charleston, South Carolina. VIE was proud to sponsor the Opening Night Gala in 2018 and again for the 2022 festival, which took place November 4–13. It kicked off with an intimate female authors’ brunch at a private courtyard home featuring former VIE cover star Tina Brown and fellow author Betsy Prioleau, with a fashion presentation by Ala von Auersperg. The festival continued with exceptional speakers throughout the week at historic venues across the city.

Female authors’ brunch at the home of Leigh and John McNairy

Fashion presentation by Ala von Auersperg Lisa Marie Burwell and Bernard Cornwell

Suzanne Pollak, head party planner for CLF, at the Opening Night Gala sponsored by VIE magazine

Female authors’ brunch and Ala von Auersperg fashion show

Fashion presentation by Ala von Auersperg

Fashion presentation by Ala von Auersperg

Photography courtesy of Charleston Literary Festival

Jordan Staggs and Kelly Curry

Wycliffe Gordon and Adrian Cunningham performing as part of Wycliffe Gordon and his International All Stars at the Charleston Literary Festival Opening Night Gala 2022, sponsored by VIE

Au revoir!

BEFORE YOU GO . . .

The frenetic pace of New York City dissipates upon entering the Aman Spa New York, where a peaceful urban sanctuary awaits. Encompassing over twenty-five thousand square feet of space dedicated to well-being, the facilities include two luxurious private Spa Houses, transformative experiences, cutting-edge wellness programs, and performance science. Guests may consult with a functional and integrative medical doctor, traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, or experienced physiotherapist, as a tailored experience is the top priority for all visitors. Here, stress is a thing of the past—ironically located in a city that thrives on it.

Photo by Robert Rieger

Uniquely positioned gulf view homesite overlooking Santa Rosa Golf and Beach Club! Meticulously planned, new construction custom home coming soon on the peaceful west end of Scenic 30-A. Vacation rental friendly with no HOA restrictions. Private pool with Cabana Porch and Summer Kitchen allow for indoor/outdoor living at its finest!

A