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Compass is a licensed real estate brokerage that abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Compass is licensed as Compass Real Estate in DC and as Compass in Virginia and Maryland. 1232 31st Street NW, Washington, DC 20007 |202.448.9002
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Departments 36 92 16 62 7 | Letter from the Publisher 8 | John’s Favorites 9 | Trevor’s Favorites
JO HN E RIC HO M E
10 | We all have it and need to relieve it. Here are some tips on how to reduce stress.
12 | Home Trends The magic of exercise mirrors exposed.
16 | Design Feature Designing a healthy home.
26 | Design News Sanabria & Co. The Shop opens on Capitol Hill.
28 |Get your smoothie on!
84 | Black Book
Gretchen Simon discusses creating a gym space in your home.
The best gyms to hit when traveling around the globe.
44 | Arts
86 | Foodie
Showcasing Allison Friedel and her “Derailed” project.
It’s all about Indian food this month.
46 | Antioxidants – what they are,
Health-ier cocktails for you to try at home.
how they work, and why they are important.
50 | Diet isn’t everything…
92 | Mixology
98 | Health & Wellness Deep Health and how it impacts you.
56 | Water doesn’t just quench your
100 | Money & Finance
thirst – it’s critical to your life.
Winter planning strategies to think about for 2022.
62 | Destinations In this issue, JEH visits a health and wellness oasis.
74 | 2022: The year you finally make
102 | Stylist Exercising and looking great while you do it!
36 | The joy of the Zen Den.
health & fitness a priority!
104 | Buzz
40 | Details
78 | Take out your shoes, sneakers,
The news that all of Washington is talking about.
A yoga mat by any other name.
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41 | Designer Spotlight
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boots, and let’s go for a walk.
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86 105 | Culture Walking through a neuron—the “thinking cells” of the brain – at Artechouse.
106 | Diplomacy The buzz in Washington’s diplomatic circles.
JOHN ERIC + TREVOR MOORE 108 | Real Estate John Eric + Trevor Moore brings you the best in luxury real estate from all across the metropolitan region and the country.
Contributors CHARLES M. TAPPAN, JR. Before joining Republic National Distributing Company LLC, Charles worked in finance, as a broker on Wall Street and as an equity trader. He decided to make the leap into the Hospitality industry in 2011 while looking for
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the fountain of youth, and since then he has worked as a bartender at some of the best hotels and restaurants in Washington, DC, including Blue Duck Tavern at Park Hyatt and the Jose Andreas Think Food Group. Not only is he a member of the US Bartender’s Guild and DC Craft Guild, but he is highly decorated in the mixology
FOUNDER | PUBLISHER John Eric
community. DAVID BROWN became a pioneer of design in some of DC and Virginia’s most up-
MANAGING EDITOR Angela Casey
and-coming neighborhoods. As an executive with Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton & Valentino, he has been fortunate to travel extensively across the United States and Europe through his work. David’s eclectic style and appreciation for architecture is
SENIOR EDITOR-AT-LARGE Louis Kwasniewski
reflected in his work thanks to his unique cultural perspective gained through his travels. MARC SCHLIEFER has been in the financial planning business since 1978, when he joined Equity Planning Institute, Inc. He became President of Equity Planning Institute, Inc. in 1996. With over 33 years of practicing financial planning, Marc has
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Hillary Broadwater EDITORIAL e-mail | angela@johnandtrevor.com
worked mainly on individual financial planning and counsels clients on all aspects of their financial life. SHERRY MOELLER co-founder and principal of MoKi Media, was a previous editor in chief of Capitol File magazine/Niche Media covering politicians, celebrities, fashion, travel, hospitality and lifestyle in Washington, DC and around the country. She now specializes in public relations for interior design, architecture and hospitality clients, among other luxury brands. HANNAH JENNER is the Founder and Head Coach at Achieving Awesome Performance Coaching and host of the “Achieving Awesome” podcast. A former professional sailor, Hannah became the first female captain of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race to circumnavigate the globe in 2007-08. After a 15- year career on the ocean sailing some 280,000 nautical miles, Hannah retired in 2017 to set up her coaching practice. Combing her experience in building successful teams along with a life coaching qualification from Erickson College and a nutrition coaching certification from Precision Nutrition, Achieving Awesome coaches women to unlock their true potential from the inside out. Hannah’s mission in life is to help people become the happiest, healthiest and strongest version of themselves so that they may in turn #betheinspiration. Find out more at www. achievingawesome.com. 6
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Welcome “The more you understand yourself, the more silence there is, the healthier you are.” – Maxime Lagacé
Welcome 2022! Once again, the calendar has flipped a page, and we have welcomed a new year… In this issue of John Eric Home, we are very serious indeed about the adage “a new year, a new you.” In our pages, you will find a host of health and wellness articles presented to you so that you can slay this new year, and put your best foot forward. Features on everything from understanding the role of antioxidants in our health to out-of-the-box workouts to designing the perfect Zen Den to tips to relieve stress are within. Recipes for smoothies. Recipes for cocktails with a healthy twist. Advice from a personal trainer and a holistic nutritionist are paired to bring out your best. Even our normal features take on a health and wellness spin – find the best workout clothes in “Stylist,” the best gyms in the world in “Black Book,” an amazing article on home fitness mirrors in “Home Trends,” and how to go about designing your own home gym in our Spotlight Designer feature. The importance of water, the importance of walking – all lead to the importance of maintaining good health. We at John Eric Home hope that you enjoy our health and wellness issue. We also hope that you have an amazing (and healthy) 2022…
John Eric Publisher, Principal and Realtor
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JOHN’S FAVORITES MY PERSONAL BEST
1. Peloton – Yes, I’m late to the game compared to most, but Peloton is a great option for working out at home. So glad I got one. 2. Guerra Steakhouse – Hands down the best steakhouse in DC, and it’s in Arlington. We can call this restaurant the best addition to the DC dining scene. 3. Obagi Hydrate® Facial Moisturizer – A welcome long lasting moisturizer for your face. My face loves it! 4. Super Chronomat 44 Four-Year Calendar – Stainless Steel & 18k Red Gold – Black. Love this watch. It’s my next big purchase.
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TREVOR’S FAVORITES MY PERSONAL BEST
1. Elderberry Complex It’s more important than ever to make sure your immune system is working its best. My wife and I have been taking these for a couple years now and they have worked great for us. SR® Elderberry Complex provides 5-in-1 Immunity Support with 500 mg of ElderCraft® European Black Elderberry Extract, Vitamin C, Ginger Root Extract, Zinc, and Vitamin D. 2. Strava Join a social network that is healthy and fun! Track and share any type of exercise with friends or sign up for a race. Strava has a free and paid version. I find that signing up for a race helps keep me consistently working out. 3. Lemon Water I drink fresh squeezed lemon water first thing in the morning and on an empty stomach. Some of the benefits are that it provides a potassium boost, prevents oxidation, is weight-loss friendly, and supplies a healthy dose of vitamin C.
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5 TIPS to
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Relieve Stress
It can’t be helped, stress is a normal part of our busy lives. And while we all know the damage that it does to our health and well-being, sometimes it is just plain difficult to bring down our stress levels. Here are some tips that may help you to relieve part of your stress. Exercise Exercise is one of the most important things you can do to combat stress. As odd as it may sound, physical stress on your body can relieve mental stress. There are a few reasons for this. The body’s stress hormones – particularly cortisol – are lowered. Exercise also helps release endorphins, which are chemicals that improve your mood and act as natural painkillers. Daily exercise promotes good sleep quality, which is greatly affected by stress and anxiety. Finally, exercising regularly promotes confidence in your body, which in turn promotes mental well-being. Reduce your caffeine intake This one is tough. We are a nation that runs on coffee – just ask Dunkin’. However, caffeine in high doses unfortunately does increase anxiety. While everyone has a different threshold for caffeine tolerance, if your regular cups of java make you jittery, that means they may also be contributing to your body’s stress level, and you should consider cutting back. Chew Gum Although your dentist may not like this tip, studies have showed that people who chew gum have a greater sense of well-being and lower stress levels. One possible explanation is that chewing gum causes brain waves similar to those of relaxed people. Another is that chewing gum promotes blood flow to your brain. Additionally, one recent study found that stress relief was greatest when people chewed more strongly. Laugh It is difficult to laugh when you are stressed out. Things just aren’t funny. But laughing is good for your health and helps the body relieve its stress response. It also relieves tension by relaxing your muscles. In the long term, laughter can also help improve your immune system and mood. A study among people with cancer found that people in the laughter intervention group experienced more stress relief than those who were simply distracted. Try binge watching a funny TV show that has made you laugh in the past. Perhaps, when they say that laughing adds years to your life, they are onto something. Learn to say no This ranks high on the list of reducing stress. We all do it – commit to something if we don’t have the time, the interest, or the ability to see it through. Then we stress about it. While many stressors are not within our control, this one certainly is. Take control over the parts of your life that you can change and are causing you stress. One way to do this may be to say “no” more often. This is especially true if you find yourself taking on more than you can handle, as juggling many responsibilities can leave you feeling overwhelmed. Being selective about what you take on — and saying no to things that will unnecessarily add to your load — can reduce your stress levels.
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HOME TRENDS WHERE STYLE & ELEGANCE MEET
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REFLECTING ON FITNESS by David Brown
Our lives are finally starting to get back on track and our schedules are busier than ever. It seems as though the days are jam-packed and to-do lists are never-ending. Convenience is the key to us succeeding. We now truly desire our tasks to come to us.
As we continue to adapt to a new normal, work life balance is more important than ever.
We love to have our food cooked for us, dry cleaning delivered, gifts ordered and shipped without having to wrap them and most importantly, our physical workouts done at home. I know we all will agree, working out at a gym or studio is fantastic. However, it can occupy much of our time. Think about it, by the time we drive or walk to our gym, get checked in, shower and make our way home – we have consumed a large chunk of our free time. Working out at home isn’t just more convenient, it is more efficient!
With so many of us trying to stay in shape outside of a gym these days, it’s no wonder
that there has been a surge of interest in at-home fitness equipment. And a new approach to exercise fitness technology called smart mirrors or fitness mirrors are the next frontier in bringing the gym into your home.
This type of exercise equipment was first pioneered by a company called MIRROR.
Founded in 2016 by Brynn Putnam, a former ballet dancer with the New York City Ballet and founder and CEO of Refine Method, a fitness studio in New York, MIRROR established this new category of fitness equipment and technology.
The origin story for MIRROR notes that mirrored walls have long been part of the
environment at many gyms and fitness studios as they allow exercisers to see and correct their form in real time. When Putnam added more mirrors to her Refine Method studios, her clients said that they significantly improved their experience. As a ballet dancer, Putnam also relied heavily on mirrors during her practice to correct form and aesthetics.
Putnam realized that she could leverage the slim profile of a full-length wall mirror to create a portal to an immersive workout experience that clients could access from their own
homes. Her MIRROR invention combines the reflective qualities of a standard mirror with a large screen where you can watch an instructor guiding you through classes.
When not in use, fitness mirrors
look like regular mirrors, and they can be mounted to the wall or come with their own stand. However, when they’re
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turned on, they stream workout classes with step-by-step
way less space than a treadmill or even cycling bike, and
instructions, and thanks to the reflective surface, you can
can go anywhere in your home. They offer personalized
view your form, power and pose in real-time. The best
instruction from a professional, so if working out intimidates
fitness mirrors also have AI functionality, which provides
you or you’ve been curious about weightlifting but are
individual feedback based on your form, your fitness goals
worried about hurting yourself, a fitness mirror might be
and your workout preferences.
perfect. They also look better when you’re not using them
These futuristic devices are essentially streamlined,
and blend in with the rest of your decor, a great plus in this
high-quality fitness studios right in your home. And instead
at-home workout era where you might not have a separate
of choosing a specialized studio, you get dozens of on-
room to stash your gym equipment.
demand exercise options ranging from strength training to
yoga to cardio. Plus, expert guidance ensures serious results
for this area of the at-home fitness equipment market to
without the need for solo research. These fitness mirrors
continue expanding as other companies develop their own
also boast workout-improving features such as heart rate
answers to the MIRROR in the coming months and years.
display, music and connection to a community.
And if you’re looking to acquire one of these devices, do
your research to make sure you’re getting the one that most
Fitness mirrors range in size, but most of them are
between 50”-70” tall and just a few feet wide. Since they’re built to blend into your home, they’re not gigantic for the most part, but some of them contain storage units for equipment that increase their size a bit. Like any piece of fitness equipment, it’s important to consider the amount of space you have before investing.
Being prepared with the correct workout gear such
as heart rate monitors and weights will allow you to maximize your workouts. If you have the space for weights, rollers, etc., you will have the ability to participate in more workouts.
Finding the best camera for your needs is also very
important. You will want to consider a camera that is integrated into the mirror. One of the most preferred cameras allows group instructors and personal trainers to give feedback on your performance. However, some of the best fitness mirrors use advanced motion-capture technology to monitor your movement in a more private manner, which is the way most prefer.
Fitness mirrors are either controlled with a touchscreen
interface or through a companion app on your smartphone. Obviously, a touchscreen is easier and faster to operate. Participation comes at a premium cost in addition to the purchase of the mirror. Each fitness mirror requires a subscription to access the brand’s classes and personal trainers. Ideally, these classes are as wide-ranging as possible and taught by qualified fitness professionals. This will allow you to practice your preferred work out and try out new forms of exercising.
There are a few big perks to owning one of these
integrated and convenient workout systems. They take up
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This trend certainly isn’t going to disappear. Look
closely suits your needs and preferences.
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Passerine vintage rugs Photos by Urban Chic Media
DESIGNING A
Healthy HOME Experts share top tips for making a home eco-friendly… and above all, relaxing By Sherry Moeller
When considering incorporating eco-friendly components into your home, experts say to start by looking at what you have that could be repurposed. Especially with supply chain delays, designers and homeowners are finding new uses for what’s on hand. It might mean moving a chair to a different room for desk seating or rethinking how and where you shop. Supporting local, small businesses makes sense, too, with items often readily available. And if you need to add on or renovate, consider making spaces multipurpose, and above all relaxing for a calming effect.
From vintage rugs to multipurpose rooms to natural elements and more
outdoor spaces, experts share some of their top tips for shopping smart, and designing healthy, in 2022.
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VINTAGE RUGS Georgia Hoyler, owner of Passerine, www.passerinehome.com,
founded her online boutique shop that sources heirloom-
softened color palettes often featured in West Coast designs,
quality handmade vintage rugs, when she began decorating
but she struggled to find them locally, so she began sourcing
her older row home in Washington, DC. She wanted the space
them on her own. With help from a local mentor and former
to reflect her own aesthetic and values, while also avoiding
Smithsonian lecturer—and after years of expensive trial-
seasonal design trends and prepared looks from big box
and-error—Hoyler developed relationships with a handful
stores.
of overseas rug merchants from whom she now sources
authentic oriental rugs of unquestionable quality.
“I wanted my home to feel distinctly mine,” says Hoyler,
Over time, Hoyler developed a preference for these worn,
“not identical to some show room. I didn’t know initially what
that would entail, so I started with some market research.”
stain resistant and beautiful has also made them more
After months of obsessively studying design books,
interior movie sets, and designer-curated Pinterest boards, it was a casual estate sale in New England that prompted her eureka moment. When she stumbled upon a beautiful, blueand-brown Persian Shiraz scatter rug, her appreciation for vintage, one-of-a-kind textiles was ignited. 18
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Hoyler’s passion for curating vintage rugs that are durable,
accessible to homeowners as well as local and national interior designers.
Library by Nestor Santa-Cruz www.nestorsanta-cruz.com
Passerine Vintage Rugs, Photos by Urban Chic 19Media
Tracy Morris Breakfast Room, Photo by Greg Powers
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MULTIPURPOSE ROOMS Rooms that do double duty are in demand, including more informal dining spaces. “One thing we have been seeing recently is the desire to replace the large formal dining room with a more informal gathering space,” says Tracy Morris of Tracy Morris Design, www.tracymorrisdesign.com.
As a result of being home for the last two years,
people’s dining rooms have been converted into homework spaces, home offices, and exercise rooms. “That leaves the breakfast nook as the main eating/gathering space,” adds Morris, who says her clients are realizing they need a bit more space in the kitchen area versus a large dining room.
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Right: Annie Elliott Living Room, Photo by Angie Seckinger Above: Kelley Proxmire Family Room, Photo by Kip Dawkins NATURAL MATERIALS, REPURPOSED PIECES Natural materials have been in for a while, but they’re more
refined in 2022, says Annie Elliott of Annie Elliott Design,
www.kelleyproxmire.com, recently designed a family room
www.annieelliottdesign.com. She says to think wicker chairs,
around furniture the owners inherited from a relative’s home
pencil rattan tables, caned cabinet doors, and peacock rattan
in Palm Beach. She created a refined space with repurposed
detailing.
elements in her signature blue and green colors.
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Kelley Proxmire of Kelley Proxmire, Inc.,
Library by Nestor Santa-Cruz www.nestorsanta-cruz.com
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GTM24 Architects Porch, JOHN ERIC HOME Photo by Diego Valdez
OUTDOOR SPACES Homeowners are continuing to move outside, not only to enjoy fresh air, but also to enjoy existing and new outdoor living areas. “Outdoor entertaining spaces will remain important features for homeowners,” says Jessica Wachtel of GTM Architects, www.gtmarchitects.com. Fire pits, outdoor heaters and large outdoor dining areas are all desirable features. “The ability to open up your indoor entertaining space for maximum air flow and transition between indoor/ outdoor space is also great,” she adds.
“We are continuing to see a push for even larger
and more elaborate outdoor spaces,” adds Luke Olson, also of GTM Architects. He’s recently incorporated putting greens to outside areas and continues to see pools in high demand. 25
DESIGN NEWS CURRENT DESIGN NEWS
SANABRIA & CO. THE SHOP OPENS ON CAPITOL HILL Melissa Sanabria opened her home décor shop to connect with the community and promote local businesses and eco-friendly, one-of-a-kind products by Sherry Moeller Photos by Lindsay Kidwell, Urban Chic Media
Melissa Sanabria, principal and founder of Sanabria & Co., a full-service interior design studio based on Capitol Hill, recently opened a home decor and furnishings storefront in the same neighborhood at 409 East Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC. Sanabria & Co. The Shop offers everything from beeswax candles, throw pillows, local honey, and home fragrances, as well as one-of-a-kind vintage rugs. Sanabria is known for seamlessly blending old with new and designing spaces that are truly family-friendly while honoring a home’s architecture. She selected many of the stores’ brands as “Partners with Purpose” — each being a small business that represents an important cause including eco-friendly and cruelty-free items, naturally-sourced products, women-owned companies, and those with strong 26
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charitable components. Such brands include Apotheke, Cultiver, Heddle & Lamm, Jaipur Living, Freres Branchiaux, Fair + Simple, Passerine, Poppy & Pout, Sunday Candle Co., Second Story Honey, and Jungle & Loom. “We’ve all been doing so much online shopping,” says Sanabria, “that I wanted to create a place where people can experience the merchandise, connect, and get inspired.” Hours for Sanabria & Co. The Shop are Thursdays from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; and Sundays from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. For more information, visit www.sanabriaandco.com.
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SMOO 28
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OTHIES WHICH SMOOTHIE IS FOR YOU? Smoothies are blended in all sizes and ingredients. Some are made at home, others at a café and others can be ordered online. They can be drunk as a breakfast or satisfy a craving in the middle of the day. If you are a home smoothie maker, here are some great smoothie recipes for you! 29
BREAKFAST SMOOTHIE HEALTHY BREAKFAST SMOOTHIE INGREDIENTS 1 cup oat milk, plus more as needed (see Cook's Note) 2 cups fresh baby spinach 1 cup frozen banana slices 1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt 1/2 cup frozen blueberries 1/2 cup frozen raspberries 1/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal 3 pitted Medjool dates DIRECTIONS Combine the oat milk, spinach, banana, yogurt, blueberries, raspberries, oats, flaxseed and dates in a blender. Blend on high until smooth, about 3 minutes. Add more oat milk as needed to achieve the desired consistency. Divide between two 12-ounce glasses.
LUNCH SMOOTHIE KIWI-GINGER ZINGER PROTEIN SMOOTHIE INGREDIENTS 2 ripe kiwis, peeled and sliced 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and sliced 3/4 cup canned light coconut milk 1/4 cup packed fresh parsley leaves 1/4 cup raw shelled hemp seeds, such as Hemp Hearts 1 tablespoon agave nectar DIRECTIONS Blend the kiwi, ginger, coconut milk, hemp seeds, parsley and agave nectar and 1/2 cup ice in a blender on high speed until light and frothy, about 3 minutes. Pour into a tall glass and serve immediately.
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SNACK SMOOTHIE AVOCADO SMOOTHIE INGREDIENTS 1 cup milk 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk, plus more to taste 2 cups crushed ice 2 ripe Hass avocados, pitted DIRECTIONS Blend the milk, sweetened condensed milk and ice in a blender until very smooth. Add the avocado flesh and blend again until smooth. The mixture will be quite thick; add cold water a few tablespoons at a time, blending after each addition, until the mixture is pourable. Taste and add more sweetened condensed milk if you want it sweeter. Serve in chilled glasses with straws.
KID’S SMOOTHIE OATMEAL COOKIE SMOOTHIE INGREDIENTS 3/4 cup rolled oats 1/4 cup raisins 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice 1 cup whole milk, plus more if needed 1/2 cup full-fat vanilla yogurt 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar DIRECTIONS Add the oats, raisins and pumpkin pie spice to the carafe of a blender and pour in the milk, adding more to cover the oats if needed. Stir completely and set aside until the oats are soft, 15 minutes. Blend on high speed until pureed and smooth, about 1 minute. Add the yogurt, brown sugar and 1 1/2 cups ice, and blend on high speed until smooth, about 30 seconds. Pour into 2 glasses.
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GREEN SMOOTHIE GREEN SMOOTHIE INGREDIENTS 2 cups spinach 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk 1 tablespoon chia seeds 1 frozen banana 1/2 avocado Ice, for thickening DIRECTIONS Add the spinach, almond milk, chia seeds, banana and avocado to the pitcher of a blender and blend. Depending on the power of the appliance, you may need to stop it, stir the ingredients and then continue blending. If the consistency is too thin, blend in some ice cubes. Transfer to a bowl.
BERRY SMOOTHIE RED BERRY-AND-BEET SMOOTHIE INGREDIENTS 2 cups mixed frozen red berries such as strawberries and raspberries 1 small red beet, peeled and thinly sliced 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon honey 2 teaspoons unrefined extra-virgin coconut oil DIRECTIONS Put the berries, 1/2 cup cold water, beet, lemon juice, honey and coconut oil into a blender. Blend on high until smooth, turning off the blender and pushing down on the ingredients with a spatula or wooden spoon as needed to help the blending process. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons more water if needed to adjust consistency.
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Zen Den IT’S ALL ABOUT THE
Forget about man caves and she sheds. To find your happy place, the Zen Den is where it’s at for good mental health… WHAT IS A ZEN DEN? A “Zen Den” is a popular concept that is centered on
creating a healthy, peaceful and meditative space within your home. A sanctuary that allows for a sense of calm and tranquility. It is a place that you can go to relax and connect to yourself while expanding your awareness of the present moment. Zen Dens are meant to build stronger mental health to then carry you through the chaos of daily life.
While on the surface, they may appear to be “hang
out” spaces – they have been known to affect health and wellness in a positive way. Stress, anxiety and depression not only leave you feeling fatigued but affect your physical health. Using a Zen Den space to meditate, practice yoga, or simply nap has been shown to drop stress and anxiety levels, aid in weight loss, and promote mental clarity and creativity.
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HOW TO CREATE A ZEN DEN Whether your Zen Den is an entire room devoted to morning meditation or something as simple as a cozy reading chair next to a window, the goal is to create a peaceful respite. Here are a few tips on how to create your own Zen space…
When designing a Zen Den, it is important to take into consideration your
needs for the space. Will you be doing yoga? Will you find yourself most often on a comfy chair sitting still and meditating? Will you take your time out in the den to read or take a short nap on the couch? Do you prefer the space to be outdoors (weather permitting of course) or indoors? Zen Dens can really be created in any room of the house – a spare bedroom, a loft space, a relegated corner in the dining room, a back patio or sunroom. Once you have answered these questions and are able to gauge both the vibe and the needed size of the space, you are set to personalize and design.
The first hard rule of a Zen Den is that it is technology free. It is specifically
designed to help you unplug, relax, and give yourself a mental break. While at first it may be difficult to leave the devices behind, it is essential that you do so. You won’t achieve a sense of calm with alerts beeping every few minutes. Also, don’t bring work or any other type of baggage into the space. Remember, the den is meant to be a simple place that allows for zero distractions.
In terms of design and décor, Zen Dens are generally of a neutral color
palette. Light and soft tones lift the mood and promote a sense of calm. Nature is sprinkled in through a modest smattering of fresh plants and cut flowers. In your design, think about a singular piece of artwork that brings you a sense of calm. Specific textiles that you feel will make the room cozy, such as a fuzzy Mongolian lamb pillow or throw. Sounds – whether through an open window that allows for birdsong, a small water feature that yields the sound of babbling water or the hum of a Tibetan singing bowl – are important to remember as well.
However, what is most important in décor is to not go overboard. The belief
is that a messy room often leads to a messy mind. So, make sure you clear this space of clutter and keep it clean and organized. Aim for a sense of lightness. Minimalism at its best. HOW TO USE A ZEN DEN Once you have finished putting the final touches on your Zen Den, it is time to use it. Perhaps you will decide to use it every day at 8:25 am for yoga practice. Or every afternoon at 3:00 with a cup of chamomile tea in hand to watch squirrels run up tree trunks and around tree branches. Or, a few times a week to take out a sketchbook and draw or a few times in a month to take a short but restful nap. The beauty of it is that you decide on the time of day, how many days a week, and what you would like to do in the space. No stress. No judgement. That is what a Zen Den is all about.
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DETAILS IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS
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There is nothing as relaxing yet energizing as a good yoga class. And there is nothing as important as practicing the art on a good mat. If you are in the hunt for a good yoga mat, try one of these… 3
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1. ALO WARRIOR MAT Alo’s all-natural rubber mat is where the magic happens — it’s roomy, perfectly cushioned for joint support, antimicrobial, dry-wicking and slip-free wet or dry. It’s also 100% non-toxic, biodegradable & responsibly sourced for the good of our planet. 2. MANDUKA EKO SUPERLITE YOGA TRAVEL MAT When asked about the best lightweight yoga mat, yoga teachers keep coming back to one mat in particular: the Manduka eKO LITE. While it isn’t super heavy, it has enough weight to keep it in place during your practice. 3. YOLOHA ORIGINAL CORK YOGA MAT Yoloha reimagines how a yoga mat made with natural materials can be so high performing for any practice. The world’s first cork yoga mat uses an extra thick layer of the highest-grade cork on the market so you can feel grounded and confident in poses. 4. AURORAE SYNERGY HOT YOGA MAT This unique, slip-free Aurore Synergy Hot Yoga Mat combines the bonds of an eco-friendly yoga mat with the lush, absorbent features of a yoga towel. One of the best mats for hot yoga, with easy cleanup.
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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT THE BEST OF THE BEST
GRETCHEN SIMON Designer Gretchen Simon teamed up with Marks-Woods Construction Services, www.markswoods.com, on the addition of a sports complex to a Virginia home. MarksWoods oversaw the construction and project management, while Simon was the interior designer. The goal was to create a multi-purpose space for entertaining up to 100 guests and for exercising with a basketball/volleyball court and a dedicated exercise room – all while connecting seamlessly to an existing home. Can you tell us a little about your professional background? Gretchen: I have a Masters from George Washington University and first worked in the hospitality industry designing hotels and restaurants in Washington, DC. Then I transitioned into residential design, working with homeowners and construction firms, such as Marks-Woods. Can you tell us a little about this project? Marks-Woods: The homeowners tasked us with building and managing the addition of a multi-purpose event and sports complex that connected seamlessly to their existing home, which was comprised of wood and stone in a farmhouse
style. The new interior spaces were focused on entertaining and exercise with a new basketball/volleyball court, an exercise room, a full bathroom with laundry, and a mudroom with wet bar. The spaces needed to be large enough to accommodate their many family members and guests, and high tech and tall enough for professional grade audiovisual equipment and commercial grade lighting. Safety and durability were key for the court’s surface, which was engineered to reduce shock and increase traction. There are even commercial grade water fountains to keep spills off the court!
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How do you approach a design concept for an at-home gym? Gretchen: I had previously worked with these homeowners so I had an idea of their needs, knowing that basketball and Georgetown University were both very important to them. Listening to your client’s wants and needs is critical to a successful design, but how did you incorporate your own personal style into the project? Gretchen: The needs of the upper level gym had to be light, bright and fresh, as opposed to the lower level, which was more about incorporating the darker colors of Georgetown University. How long did this project take from inception to completion? Gretchen: The design and construction took one year. What was your most favorite aspect of the design? Gretchen: I enjoyed working with the vendor who supplied the nets and made the court operational. I also enjoyed planning the volleyball suites by creating a multi-use court for volleyball and badminton all in one space. How did you combine utility with design? Which do you feel is more important? Gretchen: Both are important. It’s very rewarding to guide homeowners towards a solution that is aesthetically pleasing while also optimizing the space and the design for the best outcome. How do you balance the different styles of exercises – e.g., a yoga centered area with a heavier machine-driven component – to create a seamless, aesthetic, visual masterpiece? Gretchen: By fulfilling all the athletic needs through flooring and equipment, using neutral paint, adding windows, and keeping the space bright and open, we created a seamless design. We also added some life with plants! Follow Gretchen Simon @gretchensimoninteriors and Marks-Woods Construction Services @mwconstruction on Instagram.
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ARTS PROVOKING THE IMAGINATION
ALLISON FRIEDEL
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“DERAILED”
Architecture from Catholic University in May of 2018. Originally from Ossining, New York, she has lived in
Derailed is a photo series of the Washington, D.C.
Washington since 2012. Her “Derailed” project started
Metro edited to include a contrasting landscape. It
out of boredom on a train. While sitting on an Amtrak
is intended to add imagination and wonder to the
train bound for New York, she took a photo of a nearby
underground scenes that hundreds of thousands of
Metro car while stopping at the New Carrollton station.
people pass through daily. The aesthetic of the metro
With a few hours on her hands, she opened Photoshop
is something unique to Washingtonians, and this photo
and created the first image in the “Derailed” series.
series is an appreciation of that uniqueness. Friedel graduated with a master’s degree in
https://www.allisonfriedel.com/
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THE ABC’S OF
Antioxidants
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For a while now, there has been a lot of talk surrounding antioxidants and their role in good health. However, few people know what they are or how they work. Sure, we have heard that blueberries or green tea pack a wallop in terms of antioxidant strength. But what is it that they are walloping? Antioxidants are molecules that fight free radicals in your body. These free radicals are compounds that can cause harm if their levels become too high and are linked to multiple illnesses, including diabetes, heart disease and cancer. Free radicals are constantly being formed in your body. Without antioxidants, free radicals would cause serious harm very quickly, eventually resulting in death. But the flip side is that free radicals also serve important functions that are essential for health. Your immune cells use free radicals to fight infections. As a result, your body needs to maintain a certain balance of free radicals and antioxidants. When free radicals outnumber antioxidants, it can lead to a state called oxidative stress. Prolonged oxidative stress can damage your DNA and other important molecules in your body. Today’s lifestyle, stressors, and environmental factors are being shown to promote excessive oxidative stress. Air pollution, cigarette smoke, alcohol intake, environmental toxins, high blood sugar levels and intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids, bacterial, fungal, and viral infections, excessive intake of iron, magnesium, copper, and zinc, along with intense and prolonged exercise, which causes tissue damage are all culpable factors. Antioxidants are essential for the survival of all living things, and your body has its own antioxidant defenses to keep free radicals in check. This is also true for plants and animals, as well as all other forms of life, which have their own defenses against free radicals and oxidative damage. Therefore, antioxidants are found in all whole foods of plant and animal origin.
Adequate antioxidant intake is important. In fact, your life depends on the intake of certain antioxidants. This is where food, especially fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based, whole foods become effective in boosting the body’s response to balancing antioxidants and free radicals. Antioxidants are categorized as either water- or fat-soluble. Water-soluble antioxidants perform their actions in the fluid inside and outside cells, whereas fat-soluble ones act primarily in cell membranes. The most important dietary antioxidants include Vitamin C (watersoluble and an essential dietary nutrient), Vitamin E (fat-soluble and plays a critical role in protecting cell membranes against oxidative damage), and Flavonoids (group of plant antioxidants has many beneficial health effects.) Other antioxidants include Vitamin A, selenium and carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, lutein, lycopene and zeaxanthin. Berries, green tea, coffee and dark chocolate are renowned for being good sources of antioxidants. According to some studies, coffee is the single biggest source of antioxidants in the Western diet, but this is partly because the average individual doesn’t eat that many antioxidant-rich foods. Meat products and fish also contain antioxidants, but to a lesser extent than fruits and vegetables. Equally, many substances that happen to be antioxidants also have other important functions. Notable examples include curcuminoids in turmeric and oleocanthal in extra virgin olive oil. These substances function as antioxidants but also have potent anti-inflammatory activity. The overall message regarding antioxidants is that it is best when possible to incorporate foods rich in these gems into our diet. They aide the body’s natural system of function to balance the free radicals also created within it.
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Which foods are high in antioxidants? Dark Chocolate, Coffee and Green Tea Chocolate is a good source of antioxidants known as flavonoids and contains other phenolic compounds. These come from the cocoa bean, which is a taken from the seed of the fruit of the cocoa tree. Green tea contains a catechin called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). Catechins are natural antioxidants that help prevent cell damage. Most significant of this trio is coffee which has shown more antioxidant activity than both cocoa and green tea. Scientists have identified approximately 1,000 antioxidants in unprocessed coffee beans, and hundreds more that develop during the roasting process. Vitamin C Fruits and Vegetables Vitamin C helps to support your immune system and vision and is important in wound healing as well as tissue repair. It has also been shown to have a regenerative effect on other antioxidants in the body including Vitamin E. Foods high in Vitamin C include oranges, tomatoes, kiwi, green peppers, guava, pineapples, lemons, mangos and cantaloupe. Broccoli and Brussel sprouts are also high in Vitamin C. Vitamin E Essentials Vitamin E works as an antioxidant, in addition to supporting our immune system, blood vessels and vision. Foods rich in this vitamin include sunflower seeds, almonds, peanut butter, tomatoes, pinenuts, apricots, seaweed, avocado and acai. Selenium Rich Foods Selenium is an important element mostly found in meat and has an important role in thyroid function. Selenium rich foods include brazil nuts, tuna, halibut, sardines, ham, shrimp, beef, chicken, cottage cheese and eggs. Carrots & Carotenoids Carotenoids are another category of antioxidants that are theorized to have a variety of health benefits. Over 600 of these carotenoids have been identified in foods. Among these, beta-carotene is considered the most important pro-Vitamin A carotenoid. Foods rich in beta-carotene include carrots, sweet potatoes, squash, peppers, kale, apricots, spinach, peas and cantaloupe. Other well-known carotenoids that are not converted into Vitamin A but are still thought to have powerful antioxidant effects include lycopene, lutein and zeaxanthin. Foods rich in Lycopene are guavas, bell peppers, cabbage, tomato, grapefruit, persimmon, mangos, papaya and watermelon. Food rich in Lutein and Zeaxanthin include spinach, collard greens, turnips, kale, peas, squash, parsley, zucchini, edamame and pumpkin. Anthocyanin Rich Foods Anthocyanins are rich in foods that appear blue, red or purple; they are also found in the flowers and fruits of many other plants. They are a subclass of phytochemicals that may provide protection against heart disease, cancer and diabetes. Foods included in this category are Red Delicious apples, bilberries, black currants, black olives, blackberries, blueberries, cherries, chokeberries, cranberries and elderberries.
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Diet Isn’t Everything
Diet - that dirty little D word. We’re on them. We’re off them. We love them and we dread them. It starts with excitement and motivation but often leads to feeling tired, defeated and confused. We cheat on the weekends and start again on Monday. New year’s resolutions, spring detoxes and juice cleanses are all part of the vicious cycle, and I’m here to tell you how to break it. Focusing solely on your diet is not painting a complete picture and is oftentimes misleading. Fixing a problem needs deeper insight than just looking at symptoms. Holistic nutrition focuses on much more than the food found on your plate to uncover the root cause. Of course, diet is a key aspect of health, but it’s only a small part of the puzzle in the grand scheme of things. Other areas of life such as deep connection to others, fulfillment in your career, physical activity and your spirituality influence your food habits.
by Marah Young 50
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The holistic approach is observing the whole being and their systems. Everything is connected like a web and when one area is heavily burdened, it can take other areas down with it. When we apply this to nutrition, we look at what drives us to choose the foods that we eat and it may have nothing to do with the food itself. By ignoring areas in our life that aren’t flourishing and are being neglected, we use food as a distraction to numb the emotions attached to the situation, or to forget them altogether. Continuing to focus solely on diet to fix your shortcomings is like a pipe bursting and you’re just mopping up the floor instead of fixing the pipe to keep it from flooding. These other areas of our lives impact how we choose the food we eat and how our body digests and uses it. Lacking in any of these areas can cause strong food cravings as a substitute to try and fill the void. This is why we crave the chocolate, the extra dirty martini, or the late-night McDonald’s menu items even though we are consciously aware that it won’t nourish our body. Instead of fighting with your cravings, balance the other areas of life that are asking to be fulfilled. The food you find on your plate reflects how you perceive your world. Humans are communal beings. It’s why holidays are jolly and talking on the phone to your friend is the best form of therapy. We thrive on being around like-minded people to share our passions and interests. But here’s the kicker: if you don’t have a solid connection with yourself, you will find yourself feeling lonely in a crowded room. Your first priority must be yourself. So, take the mental health day off, take yourself on a date and choose to love yourself every day. Think of it like a cup, and the contents inside the cup is self-care. What does the inside of your cup look like? If you don’t take time for yourself and haven’t learned the usefulness of the word “no”, you may feel like your cup is running on empty. How are you going to offer others any contents from your care cup if there are no contents to give? Fuel up buttercup with some self-care so you can share the love. Physical activity is one way to fill your care cup, and it’s also another area to prioritize for a healthy plate. The good news is the options are endless and you don’t ever have to buy a gym membership again if you don’t want to. Have fun with your movements and discover ways that your body enjoys moving. Blast your favorite tunes and dance around the house, hula hoop, roller skate, or come up with your own way to move that feels good in your body. Moving energy around and increasing your heart rate gives your cells an oxygen rich nutrient bath and keeps the body strong and limber, not to mention basking in the natural high from the happy hormones released during exercise. An alarming number of people work jobs for years that don’t support their spiritual being. Growth and expansion as a spiritual being is pertinent to your health, and if this
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doesn’t describe your current role then maybe it’s time to rethink your career. No, you don’t have to run off to write your 2 weeks’ notice to find fulfilment in your work. Volunteer your passions or create a side hustle - it doesn’t feel like work when you can’t get enough of it! Make a list of the things you love to do and create action steps to making a career out of it. Life is too short to do work that is depressing your soul. Speaking of souls, how connected are you to yours? Spirituality is simply your connection to your soul - your true self. Reflecting on how and why you do things while having a strong connection between the body and the mind opens the door to the best version of yourself. You have all the answers you are looking for; you just have to turn off all the other noise around you to be able to tune in and hear it. Being spiritual does not equate to being religious. Yes, religion can strengthen your spirituality but it isn’t one and the same. Other ways to strengthen spirituality is by experiencing joy, sharing your interests, meditation and selfeducation. Bouncing from one diet to another is not going to help you succeed long term. A diet is not going to fill the void you are feeling. You must check into the other areas of your life and ask yourself how you’re doing. Introspect where the weaknesses lie in your relationships, physical activity, career and spirituality, and bring more attention to balancing these aspects of your life. When your world is balanced, so is your plate.
Marah Young works with professional women to help them balance business, family and health so that they can increase productivity without the stress. Marah is the CEO of My Wholistics and has an online wellness studio and community designed to support everyone’s healing journey - because not everyone heals by Aum-ing on a yoga mat. She received her M.S. in holistic natural health & nutrition and studied at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition to obtain the title of a holistic health coach. During her studies, Marah turned towards yoga to help manage stress and keep her body and mind balanced, and soon went on to teacher training to share the benefits of the practice with others.
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Oil Nut Bay offers freehold property ownership and refined rental residences in a setting that is exceptionally private and consciously preserved.
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OILNUTBAY.COM
VIRGIN GORDA
MARINA VILLAS STARTING AT $3.45M With 180 degree ocean views, Oil Nut Bay's Marina Villas are currently under construction. Sold turnkey and fully furnished, they boast an open living concept, covered deck, suspended plunge pool and come in 2, 3 or 4-bedroom configurations. Just a quick walk away from your boat and the amenities in Marina Village, becoming a part of the elite Oil Nut Bay homeowner community also allows you full access to their exclusive Beach Club and Resort.
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
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SALES @OILNUTBAY.COM
Water THE IMPORTANCE OF
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About 71% of the Earth’s surface is water-covered. While the oceans hold about 96.5% of all of Earth’s water, the liquid is also found in the air as water vapor, in rivers and lakes, in icecaps and glaciers, in the ground as soil moisture and in aquifers. And in you. Up to 60% of the human adult body is water. According to H.H. Mitchell, Journal of Biological Chemistry 158, the brain and heart are composed of 73% water and the lungs are about 83% water. The skin contains 64% water, muscles and kidneys are 79%, and even the bones are watery at 31%. Our blood? That is a whopping 90%. Therefore, drinking the transparent liquid isn’t just advised, it is imperative to do so. Keeping hydrated is crucial for health and well-being, but many people do not consume enough fluids each day. Perhaps it is the ubiquitous nature of water that means drinking enough each day is not at the top of many people’s lists of priorities.
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The Benefits (and Necessity) of Drinking Water From the start, it is important to dispel a myth. And that myth is that there is a required water intake that a person needs in one day. The truth is that there is no universally agreed quantity of water that must be consumed daily. It differs from doctor to doctor, from person to person. What is not in dispute, however, are the benefits ascribed to drinking water. To function properly, all the cells and organs of the body need water. The liquid lubricates the joints – cartilage found in joints and the disks of the spine contains around 80 percent water. Long-term dehydration can reduce the joints’ shock-absorbing ability, leading to joint pain. Water also forms saliva and mucus which helps us digest our food and keeps the mouth, nose and eyes moist. This prevents friction and damage. The life-giving liquid delivers oxygen throughout the body through our blood which, as mentioned above, is more than 90 percent water. It also boosts skin health – with dehydration, the skin can become more vulnerable to skin disorders and premature wrinkling – and it cushions the brain, spinal cord, and other sensitive tissues. Dehydration can affect brain structure and function. It is also involved in the production of hormones and neurotransmitters. Prolonged dehydration can lead to problems with thinking and reasoning. Aside from these important factors, water also regulates body temperature as it is stored in the middle layers of the skin and comes to the skin’s surface as sweat when the body heats up. (Some scientists have suggested that when there is too little water in the body, heat storage increases, and the individual is less able to tolerate heat strain.) Of course, our digestive system depends on it to ensure that the bowel works properly. Dehydration can lead to digestive problems, constipation, and an overly acidic stomach. This increases the risk of heartburn and stomach ulcers. Furthermore, water intake helps to maintain blood pressure – a lack of water can cause blood to become thicker, increasing blood pressure. Our airways need it to breathe easily because when we are dehydrated, they are restricted
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by the body in an effort to minimize water loss. This can make asthma and allergies worse. And it also dissolves minerals and nutrients which makes it possible for them to be carried to different parts of the body. Water and Kidney Health If all of these reasons aren’t enough to illustrate the importance of water, perhaps understanding how it prevents kidney damage is. And water is a key component of protecting these organs. The kidneys play a key role in balancing fluid levels in the body. Every day, the kidneys filter around 120-150 quarts of fluid. Of these, approximately 1-2 quarts are removed from the body in the form of urine, and the rest is recovered by the bloodstream. If the kidneys do not function properly, waste products and excess fluid can build up inside the body. Untreated, chronic kidney disease can lead to kidney failure. The organs stop working, and either dialysis or kidney transplantation is required. The kidneys need water to function properly and process the fluids. Without the water, it is an operational meltdown and serious risk – including death – is at hand. Aside from filtering processes related to the kidneys, drinking water is also a simple and easy way to reduce the risk of developing urinary tract infections (UTIs). These are the second most common type of infection in the body and account for nearly 10 million visits to healthcare providers in the US each year. If infections spread to the upper urinary tract, including the kidneys, permanent damage can result. Sudden, or acute, kidney infections can be life-threatening, particularly if septicemia occurs. While drinking water cannot cure a UTI – an antibiotic is required – it can reduce the risk of one and also help to treat an existing infection. The leading cause of kidney stones is a lack of water, and they can also increase the risk of chronic kidney disease. In November 2014, the American College of Physicians issued new guidelines for people who have previously developed kidney stones. The guidelines state that increasing
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fluid intake to enable 2 liters of urination a day could decrease the risk of stone recurrence by at least half with no side effects. Dehydration happens if we use and lose more water than the body takes in. It can lead to an imbalance in the body’s electrolytes. Electrolytes, such as potassium, phosphate and sodium, help carry electrical signals between cells. The kidneys keep the levels of electrolytes in the body stable when they function properly. Wen the kidneys are unable to maintain a balance in the levels of electrolytes, these electrical signals become mixed up. This can lead to seizures, involving involuntary muscle movements and loss of consciousness. In severe cases, dehydration can lead to kidney failure, which can be life-threatening. Possible complications of chronic kidney failure include anemia, damage to the central nervous system, heart failure, and a compromised immune system. Losing Water During everyday functioning, water is lost by the body and needs to be replaced. We notice that we lose water through activities such as sweating and urination, but water is lost even when breathing. Drinking water, whether from the tap or a bottle, is the best source of fluid for the body. Milk and juices are also good sources of fluid, but beverages containing alcohol and caffeine, such as soft drinks, coffee and beer, are not ideal because they often contain empty calories. Drinking water instead of soda can help with weight loss. It was previously thought that caffeinated beverages had diuretic properties, meaning that they cause the body to release water. However, studies show that fluid loss because of caffeinated drinks is minimal. Recommended Intake There is no unilateral agreement on how much water a person should drink per day. Due to factors such as climate, a person’s activity level, and how each body uses the ingested water make it difficult to predict how many ounces or glasses are needed to maintain body functions. A magic number does not exist. However, there is a general agreement on what a “healthy” intake is. According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, the average recommended daily intake of water from both food and drink is: Men: 100 ounces, or 12.5 cups of fluid Women: 73 ounces, or just over 9 cups Fresh fruits and vegetables and all non-alcoholic fluids count towards this recommendation. The importance of water intake to the human body can’t be underestimated. A person can survive without food for between eight and twenty-one days, depending on the body. A person can only survive for three days without water. Water is life. Source: Medical News Today
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INC.
MONEY DOESN’T HAVE TO BE COMPLICATED. Are you confused by most financial advice? If so, you’re not alone.
Marc S. Schliefer, CFP® | Equity Planning Inc. 7910 Woodmont Avenue | Suite 900 | Bethesda | MD 20814 Phone: 301-652-8702 | Fax: 301-652-9066 www.equityplanning.com | marcs@equityplanning.com | www.linkedin.com/in/marcschliefer/ Securities offered through Cetera Advisor Networks LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through CWM, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Cetera Advisor Networks LLC is under separate ownership from any other named entity. 61
DESTINATIONS LUXURY TRAVEL
In the British Virgin Islands lies a resort where life is spent in perfect harmony with the ocean tides. Where white sandy beaches, rolling hills and unspoiled terrain nurture the mind and body. In this place, imbibing wellness is as natural as breathing in the salty air. For this issue of John Eric Home, we travel to Oil Nut Bay on the eastern tip of Virgin Gorda.
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DESTINATION | OIL NUT BAY
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Spread across 400 pristine acres and surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, Oil Nut Bay is accessible only by boat or helicopter. The resort is an exclusive, protected paradise for those seeking a private island getaway. It is one of the most beautiful places on earth.
The resort’s sunny climate, natural setting, and exhilarating outdoor adventures
can inspire a renewed dedication to a healthy lifestyle. That, combined with amazing amenities, make it a must for anyone wishing to up their health and wellness game.
GOOD HEALTH REQUIRES PHYSICAL ACTIVITY. At this resort there are many activities from which to choose. Given its location, the resort’s outdoor activities are high on every guest’s list. No matter if you are a sea or land lover, there is something that will get you moving even before you realize it.
Being on an island, there is a plethora of sea and swimming related activities
in which to indulge. The calm winds and waters offer the perfect environment for water and wind sports of all levels. Kitesurfing, sailing and wind foiling are all unique ways to experience the waters surrounding the island.
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Of course, two popular activities are diving and snorkeling. And how can they not be? Exploring the reefs enveloped by warm crystal-clear waters is an amazing experience. Throw in the ability to dive to a shipwreck or snorkel with sea turtles and eagle rays and you have gold. And Strenuous Snorkel, the resort’s newest wellness activity, is available every Wednesday for guests to participate. The mile-long snorkel takes about 45 minutes and guests have the opportunity to observe tarpon, stingrays, baby nurse sharks and adult and junior turtles. Cold refreshments are provided at the end of the swim.
On land, beach volleyball and ladder spring golf are two definite ways to
leave your chaise in the sand and get moving! The resort also offers great tennis facilities and pickleball courts. It has five hiking trails that offer unmatched scenic views. And yoga? Whether it’s Hatha or Vinyasa, practicing outdoors with sheer beauty surrounding you is an uplifting experience.
Not all of Oil Nut Bay’s health and wellness activities are held outdoors. Its
Wellness Studio is top-notch and inspires a renewed dedication to a healthy lifestyle. It’s furnished with a full range of cardiovascular equipment, treadmills, elliptical cross trainers and free weights. The studio also offers a variety of Wellness Classes from Pilates to yoga too – it’s all about keeping you fit and healthy.
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GOOD HEALTH REQUIRES GOOD FOOD.
with a good book – all add up. It’s all important.
For our health and wellness issue, we chose to focus
Built out over the water of Deep Bay, Nova is a social dining
on Oil Nut Bay as a top destination. It has it all – physical
experience that allows guests to dine on locally sourced
activities, food and relaxation. Just what the doctor ordered.
dishes with a global flair. It offers a variety of healthy menu options including a vegan menu which includes dishes such as summer rolls, superfood salad and vegan tacos.
While at Nova, guests can enjoy the bar, offered
daybeds, a suspended pool and over-water hammocks. It is a place to not just nourish your body but your spirit as well. GOOD HEALTH REQUIRES RELAXATION. We have saved one of the best amenities at Oil Nut Bay for last. Its spa. When we think of health and wellness, spa experiences come quickly to mind. At this resort, it’s no different. Here, the spa treatments feature only the highestlevel organic extracts and herbs to ensure the resort’s reputation for superior quality. Whether it is the therapeutic deep tissue or the destressing relaxation treatment that is chosen, you are guaranteed to have “massage brain” upon finishing. The ultimate in relaxation.
But it is not just the spa that provides relaxation at this
gem of a resort. Floating in the sea, taking slow walks along the sand, gently swinging in a hammock, lazing on the beach
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202 The Year You Finally Make Health & Fitness a Priority!
By Joan Campbell 74
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The new year has begun, and like most people I’m sure somewhere on your to do list for 2022 is health & fitness. In fact, I have a feeling it was on your list last year too…
We all know that this should be a top priority and we
know that we feel better, look better and enjoy life more when we find the time for it. So why do we continue to put it off? Why do we continue to say, “I will start next Monday?” Why do we wait for the “New Year?”
As a health & fitness professional for 15 years, I know
first-hand how the industry pushes quick fixes, the newest fads and all the fancy diets. This year, I’m challenging you to try something different. STOP starting over. STOP putting it off. STOP thinking it will change.
This is the year you MAKE it change! 2022 is the year
that you finally make a lifestyle change. It’s the year you put yourself first because you are ready, you are committed, and nothing is going to stand in your way to feel better. Here is what we are going to do: #1: The first step to this is working on your MINDSET. No, it’s not signing up for a gym or a fitness challenge or grocery shopping for the new diet you plan to start on Monday. The first step is getting your mind right. If you are not truly ready or committed, then whatever you plan on starting will not stick. You will be right back where you started - low energy, not feeling good and unhappy with it all. Take 10-15 min and ask yourself the following questions:
WHY do I want to make a change? WHY is it important
to me? WHAT has worked before? WHAT do I enjoy doing? WHAT sacrifices am I willing to make to make this happen? When the going gets tough and you want to throw in the towel, how are you going to keep yourself going? What is going to push you forward when you want to give up? Write down your answers so you can revisit them often. #2: Eliminate the all or nothing attitude. It is great when you first get started, but have you noticed how many times you stop because you CAN’T continue at that pace? If you find yourself once again starting over or being at a place where your health has taken a back seat, I recommend you change it up and do it differently this time. Start with walking -
maybe just 20 min 2-3x per week. Do that for a couple of weeks, then increase it to 3-5x per week. When that has become a part of your routine, increase it to 30 minutes or more. There are no rules that say you have to work out hard core for an hour plus 7 days a week. What matters most over anything at all is that you do SOMETHING. That will always be better than doing nothing! #3: When it comes to nutrition, let’s be honest here. We all know what to eat. We really do. We know that a homemade cooked meal is always better than a McDonalds cheeseburger. We know we need to decrease our sugar intake and focus more on good protein, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates. We know this.
Instead of focusing on what you eat, I am going to
challenge you on HOW you eat. In a fast-paced world where we are constantly running from one thing to another, have you ever noticed how quickly you eat your food? I would even bet that oftentimes you don’t even think about what you are eating. Between the mindless eating and how quickly you scarf down your food, these can be just as problematic as WHAT you are choosing to eat. It takes 20 minutes from the start of our meal for our brain to send out signals of fullness. When you eat slower, the food is broken down more in your mouth, allowing the saliva enzymes to breakdown food before it gets to the rest of the digestive system. This allows the digestive system to do less work and more effectively break down food. So, this time around, if you have been here before and you are once again starting over,
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I encourage you to try something new. Turn your focus to
per day to celebrate. Your confidence builds and your will to
HOW you eat and not WHAT you eat. Just like the exercise
thrive increases day by day!
piece. Start there. Then, over time you can turn your focus onto what you eat.
At the end of the day, making health & fitness a priority is NOT easy. But being unhealthy, feeling horrible, having low
#4: Planning is everything. Without a plan, you are very
energy, and wishing it was different, is also NOT easy. So,
much planning to fail. Don’t just say you are going to work
choose your hard. Will you continue on the same path you
out, plan your workout. Don’t hope you are going to make
have been the last couple of years, always pushing it to the
good choices when it comes to nutrition, plan to make good
next week, next month, next year OR, will you finally get up,
choices. Don’t wish for your mindset to change, MAKE it
put the plan together and MAKE it happen. It is your choice.
change by planning how to change it. Yes, it may take you
However, remember this, no one regrets making the time, but
a little extra time to plan ahead, but if you really want to live
almost everyone regrets NOT making the time.
better, feel better and thrive better, it will be worth the small amount of time needed. Joan Campbell is a health and wellness expert and owner #5: Stop focusing on what you didn’t do and focus on what
of JEM, a fitness, wellness and accountability center. She
you did do! So much of our energy is put into the guilt or
has been working as a personal trainer for 15 years and
frustration of the things we did not accomplish. All that does
holds a degree in Kinesiology and numerous certifications
is hinder you from moving forward. Celebrate your wins.
including pre & postnatal, precision nutrition and kettlebell.
Even the small wins. The more you focus on the things you
Throughout the years, she has worked in many different
ARE doing the more you want to show up for yourself, the
settings including managing a large luxury gym. In 2019 as
more you are proud of yourself! The easiest way to do this is
the pandemic began, she opened her own business focusing
to write one thing down every day that you are proud of. It
on working with women who needed the extra support and
can be as simple as getting out of bed or putting less cream
guidance to make health a priority in their life.
in your coffee. But imagine if you found at least one thing
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Wal LET’S GO FOR A
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Whether your ideal walk is in nature or hitting the pavement, there is no question that walking is quite possibly the best form of exercise to engage in. Its health benefits are numerous.
The benefits of walking in nature can be felt for up to 7 hours afterwards…
You’ve probably had that feeling of needing to get out into nature when things get
a bit much. There are many ways in which a nature walk can help with your emotional, mental and physical health. It helps you to focus on the positives of your life. Some studies show that it can affect our introspective state. Sometimes it is just nice to catch a few minutes of peace and quiet.
But why is walking in nature something that you should regularly do and not just
when you are in a “system overload” state?
First off, it boosts your energy level. So, when you really don’t feel like going for
a walk, the best thing to do is to go for a walk! “Fresh air is good for you” is not just a trope, it is an actual physiologic aspect of the body that does reawaken your brain and charge your system.
Walking in nature also reduces stress levels and calms your nerves. It can lower
concentrations of cortisol, lower the pulse rate and lower blood pressure. Trees naturally give off something called ‘phytoncides’ or ‘wood’ essential oils, which have a beneficial effect on our nervous systems.
Exercise and peace and quiet will lift your mood, and in some cases can help with
mild to moderate depression. And it has been shown that walking through green spaces can create the calmness needed for reflection. It’s in this calm, quiet reflective state that creativity can flourish.
There are, of course, many different ways to walk. Briskly, casually, aimlessly,
intentionally, mindfully, distractedly – the gang is all here and, as they say, “different strokes for different folks.” When nature walking, however, the best route to go (pardon the pun) is mindfully to receive the full health benefit of the stroll. And how do you mindfully go about mindfully nature walking?
Walk slowly and take in everything that your senses can distill. From the scent of the
pine to the birds singing in treetops to the tapestry of colors created by nature. Doing so will support bringing you into the present moment, helping you to dissolve all your cares and worries. Listen to the insect and animal sounds, observe the movement of the grass, smell what scents are carried on the breeze. It’s really that simple. What is not simple, but rather complex, is the body’s response to even 30 minutes of this type of activity. It does the body good.
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To go on a mindful nature walk doesn’t mean that you must plop yourself in the middle of a forest and edge your way out of it either. A city park can hold its own bit of nature. Find a space, which has plenty of trees, plants or flowers. The key is, of course, the distinct natural elements of the space that need to envelop you.
For those who do have access to more wooded areas, the custom of “forest” or
“tree” bathing is quickly picking up steam in the United States. The Japanese have been practicing Shinrin-Yoku – forest bathing – since the early nineteen eighties. These are gentle walks between 2-4 hours long that support wellbeing through sensory immersion in forest and naturally healing environments. It has become a popular preventative healthcare and healing method in Japanese medicine.
For those who aren’t into nature walks but want to reap the benefits of a regular walk…
The faster, farther, and more frequently you walk, the greater the benefits. For example,
you may start out as an average walker, and then work your way up to walking faster and walking a mile in a shorter amount of time similar to that of power walkers. This can be a great way to get aerobic activity, improve your heart health and increase your endurance while burning calories.
You can also alternate periods of brisk walking with leisurely walking. This type of
interval training has many benefits, such as improving cardiovascular fitness and burning more calories than regular walking. And interval training can be done in less time than regular walking.
Turning your normal walk into a fitness stride requires good posture and purposeful
movements. Ideally, here’s how you’ll look when you’re walking:
•
Your head is up. You’re looking forward, not at the ground.
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Your neck, shoulders and back are relaxed, not stiffly upright.
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You’re swinging your arms freely with a slight bend in your elbows.
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Your stomach muscles are slightly tightened, and your back is straight, not
arched forward or backward.
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You’re walking smoothly, rolling your foot from heel to toe.
As mentioned above, the health benefits of walking are numerous. A regular brisk
walking can help you improve cardiovascular fitness, strengthen your bones and muscles, and improve muscle endurance. It can also help to maintain a healthy weight and lose body fat and prevent or manage various conditions, including heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, cancer and type 2 diabetes. Like nature walking, brisk walking has been found to increase energy levels and improve your mood, cognition, memory and sleep. Both forms of walking also strengthen the immune system and reduce stress and tension.
Regardless of whether you are planning a nature walk or a brisk walk, always
remember to wear the right gear. Choose shoes with proper arch support, a firm heel and thick flexible soles. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes appropriate for all types of weather, such as layers in cooler weather. If you are briskly walking, aim to wear moisturewicking fabrics, which will keep you more comfortable. If you are on a nature walk when it’s dark, wear bright colors or reflective tape for visibility. In the adverse, if you are out during the day, wear sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses for UV protection.
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BLACK BOOK INTERNATIONAL FAIRE
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ARE YOU TRAVELING FOR WORK OR PLEASURE AND FEEL THE NEED TO WALK A FEW MILES ON THE TREADMILL OR TAKE A QUICK EXERCISE CLASS TO ENERGIZE? IF YOU ARE IN ONE OF THESE CITIES, DROP INTO ONE OF THESE TOP-RANKED GLOBAL GYMS. EQUINOX GROUP – MULTIPLE LOCATIONS IN THE US, CANADA AND LONDON To start with, Equinox is one of the best gyms in the world because it offers great activities including yoga, HIIT, barre, indoor cycling and more. It also features the classic gym equipment that is a required standard feature. To top it off, the chain’s amenities can’t be beat! LA BELLE ÉQUIPE - PARIS, FRANCE La Belle Équipe, located around the Gare du Nord station, is the best gym in Paris. Although it focuses more on Thai kickboxing, the fitness company also offers its members a range of other classes. And the views from its space? Even those who don’t normally visit the gym can’t resist a workout in the City of Lights. VIRGIN ACTIVE - TANJONG PAGAR, SINGAPORE Virgin Active is one of the best fitness companies in Singapore and in the world. The company offers more than 200 different group classes weekly, giving room for busy people to catch up. It also has branches in South Africa, Italy, England, Australia, Botswana, Namibia and Thailand. TITAN FITNESS - SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA Titan Fitness is one of the best gyms you can trust when you travel to Australia. Apart from being in the business for more than 26 years, the gym also offers highquality fitness training and classes including Western Boxing, Muay Thai, and others that pack a great workout. THE BURROW - KUWAIT The Burrow is not just a gym, it’s a lifestyle. With its high-quality training equipment and great trainers, you’re sure to enjoy the fitness center the moment you walk in. Although the company focuses on Muay Thai, a type of martial art, it also has boxing rings where you can train better.
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FOODIE TASTE OF THE TOWN
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Plant based diets are now becoming the rage in the West. However, there is one country in the East where they have always been commonplace, and the vast majority of its people eat a vegetarian diet. That, of course, is India. Nimmi Seth, a resident of Mumbai, has shared with us her thoughts on the role of food in Indian culture. “India is a vast country with a huge culture,” says Seth, “and every state in India has unique food and a unique way of making it. Every festival, celebration, and gathering is centered around food. There is a saying that every guest is god and gods need to be fed …. So, food is very important. In my culture we live to eat, and all the rest follows.” Because India is such a vast country, what types of foods and flavors are represented? “In the east, fish is a main staple on the menu,” says Seth, “whereas in the north it is mainly Punjabi and there are a lot of farms. The food is a little heavier and full of white butter and ghee. In Rajastan, food is very spicy. There is also scant rainfall so dishes are planned accordingly. The west is a coastal region, so people there eat a lot of fish too. Gujarati food is found in the west, which is very sweet. Mumbai, where I live, is a cosmopolitan city, and we have everything.” And are menus more modern, traditional, or a blend? “Dishes that we eat at a casual dinner party can range from a pasta to garlic breads. Today the modern foods have taken over the traditional dishes. They are easier and faster to make. Indian foods take time to cook. Especially the ones we make during festivals. Of course, during festivals and celebrations the dishes are more elaborate, traditional, and really special.” What about the ingredients commonly used in cooking? “In India, dishes are normally made from panner, nan, roti, raitia, and chole. We also eat a lot of rice, and we do eat potatoes too. Dhokla, Samosa, sweet dishes like kheer or sheera are also favorites. Also, our food has lots of pickles and papad which we normally eat along with raw onions and chilli’s. We also use a lot of spices and oils. I love the oils.” What is her favorite dish? “My favorite food is Lady Finger and roti,” she says. “I can eat this every day. At my house, my husband makes the best Chole and Puri and Aloo veggie … my mom use to make awesome Aloo parthas and masala rice with her own twist.”
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LADY FINGER | BHINDI INGREDIENTS 250 grams lady finger (okra or bhindi) 2 tablespoon oil 1 medium onion, chopped or ⅓ cup chopped onion 1 inch ginger, chopped or 1 heaped teaspoon ginger 1 green chili - chopped or sliced ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder ½ teaspoon kashmiri red chili powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder (ground coriander) ½ teaspoon Garam Masala Powder 2 tablespoon chopped coriander leaves (cilantro leaves) salt as required DIRECTIONS Lady Finger Rinse okra or bhindi in water. Wipe them dry. There should be no trace of water or moisture as then the okra becomes slimy while cooking. Chop in rounds. Keep aside. Masala In a shallow pan, heat 2 tbsp oil and add 1/3 cup chopped onion. Over a low to medium flame, saute the onions till they turn translucent. Add 1 tsp heaped chopped ginger and 1 green chili (chopped or sliced). Stir and saute for half a minute. Reduce the flame and add 1/4 tsp turmeric powder, 1/2 tsp kashmiri red chili powder and 1 tsp coriander powder. Mix the spice powders very well. Add the chopped okra. Stir and mix very well with the rest of the masala. Add salt as per taste. Mix the salt very well with the okra. Cover the pan with a lid and cook on a low flame. Do not add any water in the pan. After every 3 to 4 minutes, stir again, so that the okra is uniformly cooked. Cook till tender – about 14 to 15 minutes on a low flame. Add 1/2 tsp garam masala powder. Mix very well. Switch off the flame. Add 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves. Mix again. Serve hot or warm with phulkas or chapatis or paratha.
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PANI PURI INGREDIENTS | PANI PURI STUFFING 2 to 3 potatoes – medium-sized 1 onion – small to medium-sized, optional 1 to 1.5 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves (cilantro) 1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder 1 teaspoon chaat masala powder ¼ teaspoon red chili powder – optional black salt or regular salt or pink salt, as required INGREDIENTS | PANI ½ cup chopped mint leaves – tightly packed, 1 cup chopped coriander leaves – tightly packed (cilantro) 1 inch ginger – chopped 2 to 3 green chilies – chopped (for a less spicy pani, add about 1 green chili) 1 tablespoon tamarind – tightly packed 3.5 to 4 tablespoons jaggery powder or grated/chopped jaggery or sugar, add as required 1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder 1 teaspoon chaat masala powder ⅓ cup water for blending 1 to 1.25 cups water to be added later, add water as per the consistency you want 1 to 1.5 tablespoons boondi (fried tiny gram flour balls), optional black salt or regular salt, add as required DIRECTIONS | PANI PURI STUFFING Boil the potatoes till they are cooked completely. Peel them and then chop them. Finely chop the onion if using it. In a small bowl, mix the potatoes, onions, coriander leaves, cumin powder, chaat masala powder and black salt or regular salt. Mix well and keep aside. DIRECTIONS | PANI In a blender add all the ingredients mentioned above for the pani. Add water and grind to a fine chutney. Remove the green chutney in a large bowl. Rinse the mixer jar with ½ cup water first and then add this water in the bowl. Then add ½ to ¾ cup more water. Mix well. Check the seasoning. Add more salt or jeera powder or chaat masala or jaggery if required. If you want a thin pani, you could add some water. But keep on checking the seasoning, as per your taste. Add the boondi to the pani. Chill the pani in the fridge or add some ice cubes to it. DIRECTIONS | ASSEMBLING Crack the top of the puri with a spoon. Add 2 to 3 teaspoons of the boiled potato-onion filling in the poori. Stir the green pani first and then add it in the poori. Optionally you can add some sweet chutney in the puri. Serve the pani puri immediately otherwise the prepared puri with stuffing and water will become soggy. You can also make individual portions with the puris, potato-onion mixture and the pani. Let the individual assemble the pani puri for himself/herself as per his/ her taste.
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MIXOLOGY TIPSY TEMPTATIONS
by Charles M. Tappan, Jr.
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REST EASY Glassware: Rocks Glass Method: Combine ingredients into a shaker and shake with ice. Use the shaker and Hawthorne strainer in one hand, and strain through a fine mesh strainer (holding with the other hand) over the fresh ice. Garnish and enjoy! Compote Crush blueberries in a saucepot and add the rest of the ingredients. Bring to a simmer, whisking everything together, and then cover and let simmer for another 15-20 minutes. Chill and fine strain to remove all of the unwanted leftover large particles. Ingredients: Glassware: Rocks Glass 1.5 oz. Absolut Vodka .75 oz. Apple Juice .75 oz. Turmeric Blueberry Compote* .25 oz. Lemon Juice Garnish: Basil Leaf and Blueberries *Turmeric Blueberry Compote: 1 cup honey 1 cup water 1 tsp. Turmeric Powder One handful (10-15) Blueberries Nothing helps wellness like a good rest. Rest and recovery are keys to wellness and achieving those conditions has become tougher over the recent years. This lovely libation may be a simple sipper, but it is packed with antioxidant rich ingredients intended to support some good oldfashioned R&R in a big way. First, we start with vodka. A greatly made vodka has the special ability to carry and enhance the flavors of each component mixed with it. In this case, the blueberries, apple and basil leaf which are power packed antioxidants. Honey and blueberries provide natural sugar, support blood pressure, and mixed all together are delicious! Turmeric is plant renowned for its rich health supportive properties, especially helping to relieve inflammation. For this cocktail, a small amount adds a bold sharp bite. Apple and lemon juices round out the profile by balancing sweet and sour. At the end of the day, a great drink can relieve some stress. With this fabulous concoction, you can Rest Easy. And in 2022, that is easily a call worth making.
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CLASSIC CURE Glassware: Collins Glass Method: Combine ingredients over ice in a Collins glass. Roll by pouring the drink from the glass to a metal shaker tin and then back 6 times. Garnish and enjoy! Ingredients: 1.5 oz. Monkey 47 Gin 1.5 oz. Kombucha 2 oz. Cranberry Juice 1 oz. Passion Fruit Juice Garnish: Lemon Wheel and Mint Sprig Distillation practices with juniper have run the gamut. However, one of the most famous practices was that of the Dutch physician Dr. Franciscus Sylvius, who sought a way to develop a medicinal tonic using gin to heal and cure kidney aliments in the 1600’s. The idea of gin as a medicine could have even started sooner, but one thing we know is that the idea of drinking juniper paired with refreshing botanicals is catching fire around the world. This drink starts with that “classic” inspiration of gin as a bright base to build on. It then blends in tea, used for calming and wellness aspects, and kombucha for a depth of flavor and its large body of antioxidants. Sticking with a kidney tonic, we add one of the world’s most popular mixers – cranberry juice. Balancing out a little of the sweet and bitter is a bright and bold citrus, passion fruit. Passion fruit is packed with Vitamin C and boosts the immune system. The Classic Cure takes a bunch of classic ideas and remedies, puts them together, and creates a cocktail that is both delicious and on the healthy side of things.
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WALKING ON WATER Glassware: Martini Glass Method: Muddle sugar and blackberries in a mixing tin. Add the rest of the ingredients and shake with ice. By using the shaker and Hawthorne strainer in one hand, and strain through a fine mesh strainer (holding with the other hand) into a chilled martini glass. Garnish and enjoy! Ingredients: 2 oz. Ruby Port .5 oz. Pomegranate Juice .5 oz. Jefferson Ocean Bourbon .25 oz. Orange Juice 2 Large Blackberries (or 3-4 smaller ones) 1 Pinch Sugar in the Raw Garnish: Square of dark chocolate and grated nutmeg Before there were distilled spirts, (what are affectionately referred to as the Water of Life), there was wine. Said to have first appeared around 8,000 years ago, wine has been integral part in the longevity of the human species. In fact, wine has been a regular cocktail ingredient through the millennia. Whether enjoyed with cheese in Ancient Rome, consumed by pirates as they roamed the Caribbean, drunk at fancy dinners in colonial times, or paired up with delicious food in today’s pubs, wine has always been a staple. Fortified wine, which is made by adding a little bit of higher proof booze and sugar, has travelled the world and is the perfect robust flavor base for this cocktail. Next orange juice comes into play to keep the libation in harmony. Pomegranate juice deepens the flavors of the drink, and at the same time adds one of the highest antioxidant counts possible. For the last fragment of the liquid refreshment, traditional rum is switched for bourbon aged on an ocean vessel. Wine and wine cocktails are a fun way to bring wellness drink to the repertoire, and the Walking on Water looks to add to the list. Bonus – red wine is known to be good for the heart, good for blood pressure, and to be a vast storage of powerful antioxidants (when used properly).
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HEALTH & WELLNESS YOUR BEST SELF
DEEP HEALTH by Hannah Jenner
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When you think about health and wellness what does that encompass for you? Maybe it’s nutrition, physical fitness or good looking blood work. Or maybe it goes beyond that. If you have never heard of the concept of deep health before, then read on. Deep health is about thriving in all dimensions of your life, physical wellbeing and beyond Physical: Feeling vibrant, energized and thriving. Performing and functioning well. Emotional: Experiencing a full range of emotions and expressing them appropriately. Environmental: Knowing your everyday surroundings support your health and well-being. Mental: Being alert, focused, competent and thoughtful. Learning and remembering and solving problems well. Existential: Feeling a sense of meaning and purpose in life. Relational: Being connected and authentic with others. Feeling supported and like you belong. *Ref: Precision Nutrition Deep Health Questionnaire All of these factors are linked to your overall health and wellness. When you are happy, supported and able to live your life in line with your true identity and values, you are much more likely to flourish. You have no doubt heard of the term “worried sick.” It has been scientifically proven that the stress hormone cortisol has an impact on general health. While it is harder to prove that a positive state of mind actually shifts gene expression profiles, various studies have shown that mood most certainly matters. Deep health quite literally means taking a deep dive into all areas of your life to find out what is working well for you and where there is opportunity for change and improvement. So many of us live with low level fatigue, slight irritability, or a sense of feeling alone and have come to accept that as normal. All of these things over time can affect health and well-being, in particular, inflammation markers. A healthy human should more often than not be able to handle a challenge, maintain focus throughout the day, feel neutral to positive most of the time, recover from exercise and be pain free. Relationships and your surrounding environment should support you and aid you to be a better person. It is well worth working through each element of deep health and checking in with yourself. On a scale of 1 to 10 where 1 is worst case and 10 is best case ask yourself:
• How are your energy, pain and recovery levels? • How is your general mood, ability to express emotions and ability to calm down when upset? • How calm and focused are you? How confident and capable and how able are you to deal with a big challenge? • Do you feel a sense of purpose? Does your lifestyle reflect your deeper values? How hopeful and optimistic do you feel about life? • How supported do you feel? Can you be authentically you around friends and family? Do those around you encourage healthy behaviors? • Is your home environment clean and safe? Does what’s around you contribute to your well-being and healthy behaviors? Is your community safe, secure and supportive? If you score yourself an 8 or above to each question, then congratulations you are in a great place and are living in a way that allows you to thrive. If you scored yourself 5 or below on each question then you have a lot of room for growth. Take some time to reflect on which area you would like to work on and think of one small thing you can do to improve that score to a 6. Take it one step at a time and only commit to doing something that is easy to achieve. If you work through these elements of deep health and uncover what is working well and where there is room for growth, it will help you to build a roadmap for a future in which you can thrive!
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MONEY & FINANCE MONEY SENSE
WRITTEN BY MARC S. SCHLIEFER, CFP®️RICP®️ WEALTH ADVISOR AND CEO
WINTER P L A N N I N G S T R AT E G I E S
Since we are in the middle of winter, one of the things that we do every year at this time is to look at tax planning strategies for our clients over the coming year. It is too late to change most things from last year, and so we want to make sure that you can take advantage of more things for this year, hopefully. If you are self-employed and you have some plans in place, you can contribute to SEP IRA plans for last year and do more matching contributions or profit-sharing contributions for your individual 401K plans. You can get a deduction if you do it correctly. Otherwise, you can contribute for this year and make sure that you have not only the deductions, but also money being put away for your retirement, which is never a bad strategy. Even though it is winter, it is a good time to get ready for spring cleaning and to clean out things from your home that you will never use or things that your family doesn’t want or need anymore. It could be a good time to make gifts to family. Once you have exhausted giving away things that you don’t need, you should see if there is anything else that can go to a charity so you can get two benefits. You can get rid of things, and you can get a tax deduction if you itemize your taxes for the donation you make of the items that were just cluttering up your house. This gives you extra motivation to clear things out from clothing and furniture to books, DVD’s and cd’s. Another option, if you have time, is to try to sell the things that you don’t want. eBay is a great option; you can mail things to the buyers, and you don’t have people coming to your home to which carries its own set of risks. While some people try to sell things, sometimes it’s just easier to donate if they’re small and not very valuable. If you have a house full of “stuff” that you want to sell, then maybe a yard or estate sale by a professional may be in order in the springtime. Other winter planning strategies are to run tax projections to see if there are any tax efficiencies that you can take advantage of to lower your taxes. I am writing this in early December and am unsure if there will be any tax changes. If there are some, what will they be and how can the tax impact be minimized? I am guessing that it will take a few months for things to shake out on the tax front.
Other winter planning strategies are to call your service providers such as cellphone, internet, cable, gas and electricity providers as well as insurance providers to see if you can get better rates or higher service plans more efficiently. Some of the providers offer better rates or options in the winter when business may be slower for them. If you have any credit card debt, it is also a good time of year to call your credit card companies to see if you can reduce your interest costs and your credit card fees. It is always a good idea to check with the credit card companies, they may offer some good promotions. Once spring hits, you can hopefully be saving money on your expenses and paying less in taxes. In addition, you may have some extra money from selling the things that were laying around the house gathering dust. Then you can look at investing some of those funds or paying down debt to reduce your annual cost of living. If you have any questions or need any help with your financial needs, please feel free to email me at marcs@equityplanning.com . I hope you have a great winter.
This piece is not intended to provide specific legal, tax, or other professional advice. For a comprehensive review of your personal situation, always consult with a tax or legal advisor. Equity Planning Inc. 7910 Woodmont Ave., Suite 900, Bethesda, MD 20814 Securities offered through Cetera Advisor Networks LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through CWM, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Cetera Advisor Networks LLC is under separate ownership from any other named entity. Distributions from traditional IRAs and employer sponsored retirement plans are taxed as ordinary income and, if taken prior to reaching age 59½, may be subject to an additional 10% IRS tax penalty.
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STYLIST FASHION FOWARD
The best workout clothes and gear on the market combine technical specs with a nod to fashionable aesthetics. From household names to niche athleticwear operations, there’s plenty of options when it comes to workout gear that fits the bill. Whether you’re still getting in the groove with your new fitness journey or you’re already a gym pro, the right athletic pieces can help you feel much more motivated and enthusiastic about your time in the gym.
HOODIES & JACKETS It can be hard to pick the perfect outfit for running outside, since you often start out much cooler than you end up. As you work your muscles and work up a sweat, you need to find ways to lower your body heat so you can maintain stamina. That’s why zip-up hoodies are an ideal addition to your running outfit; they can block out harsh winds and chills but also can be unzipped for more breathable wear when you get warm.
Women - The Thermal Quarter-Zip Hoodie – Adidas Cut from comfortable double-knit fabric for a close fit, the top is designed to keep you cozy as you put in the miles. Regulate your temperature on the run. Men - Repeat Running Jacket – Alo Yoga This bold jacket adds just enough style to this terrific windbreaker without overwhelming your minimalist fitness gear. It keeps you warm too.
LEGGINGS Whether you are running, squatting, or jumping, Gymshark leggings move with your body when working out. The pants don’t fall and aren’t see-through. They are also designed with a sweat-wick material as an added bonus. SPORTS BRA The Peloton bra is soft and made of quality materials. While an uncomfortable bra can quickly kill a good workout, this bra will keep you moving for hours. SPORT SHORTS The Tory Sport shorts are high waisted and the perfect length. If you bike or run, these will become your go-to shorts for your travels. LONG SLEEVE SHIRT Perfect for yoga, the Alo Yoga Long Sleeve is not only super soft, but it is snug enough not to go anywhere—even when in a headstand. It is a ribbed knit which gives it some stretch and makes it transitional from workout to wear out.
T-SHIRT The Under Armour training T-shirt keeps you cool while you get your workout in. The lightweight technical fabric is ultra-soft, wicks sweat, and dries fast for ultimate comfort. Anti-chafing seams and anti-odor technology are bonus features of this T. UNDERWEAR Any old underwear simply won’t do when you’re working up a sweat and staying focused on your intense workout. BN3TH’s MyPakage Pouch Technology provides the support you need, while innovative modal fabric wicks away moisture and prevents odor. RUNNING PANTS Nike Phenom Elite Running Pants are sleek, functional pants for your outdoor runs or morning hikes. They will block the wind and rain while keeping you looking modern and stylish. SHORTS The Lululemon T.H.E. Short 9” Linerless Short has the perfect proportions for both length and width. They are made of swift ultra-fabric that’s lightweight with stretch and sweat-wicking attributes.
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BUZZ DAILY DC
BODYWORKS
Freed Bodyworks made regular work of healing those who sought its wellness, massage and therapy treatments for more than a decade. But it couldn’t ultimately save itself after the pandemic halted its business and drained its resources for nearly two years. The Southeast D.C. holistic wellness center is shutting down Jan. 16, winding down and working to pay off its remaining debts between now and then. (WBJ)
YO YOGA
The most recent addition to Georgetown’s fitness scene, Yo! Yoga is an airy, light-filled studio located in a restored building at 2805 M St. NW. The new studio offers teacherdriven yoga classes that are rooted in classic yoga traditions and emphasize proper alignment and movement as the foundation of a sustainable, strong practice. The space is also open to creatives who are interested in hosting events, such as the Retro Night Market – a reoccurring market currently hosted inside the studio every other Friday from 6pm to 10pm, with vendors selling home decor, health, wellness, beauty and skincare products, men’s and women’s clothing (vintage and original), food and beverages, and art. (georgetowndc)
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FRIENDS AND BARS
According to research there is a psychological allure and benefit of being a regular at a neighborhood bar. The practice can help us manage emotions, make friends, maintain relationships, and expose us to new ideas and people. A study conducted in bars around Oxford, England, examined these relationships in-depth. Led by Oxford psychologist Robin Dunbar and commissioned by the U.K. consumer organization Campaign for Real Ale, “Friends on Tap: The Role of Pubs at the Heart of the Community” suggests that local bars are among the best venues to meet like-minded people, even comparing them to places of worship, and that moderate drinking can improve a person’s social skills, mental health, and overall well-being. The report also finds that regulars tend to drink less per outing than people drinking on their own or at big downtown bars, citing a group-moderation effect. According to the study, “People are likely to drink less if those around them are behaving in a more measured way, and are, as a result, likely to be less tolerant of socially inappropriate or excessive behavior.” (WCP)
CULTURE WHERE ART AND LIFE MEET
LIFE OF A NEURON ARTECHOUSE Washington, DC Walk through a neuron—the “thinking cells” of the brain—and witness first-hand the beauty of one of science’s greatest mysteries: the human brain. Life of a Neuron brings artists and scientists together for a groundbreaking collaboration to explore how the brain shapes the shared human experience. Through collaboration with the Society for Neuroscience and the world’s leading scientists and creatives, this immersive exhibit allow us to experience a neuron— from pre-birth to death—providing an experiential view of life at a cellular level. Made possible by decades of neuroscience research and cuttingedge technology, Life of a Neuron gives unprecedented access to experience neurons like never before—and in doing so question our existence, the universe—and what is next.
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DIPLOMACY DC INTERNATIONAL
1000 HUES, ABSTRACTING ARGENTINE LANDSCAPES SPONSORED BY THE EMBASSY OF ARGENTINA & IBEROAMERICA CULTURA DC The pieces in this exhibit are based on photographs taken by artist Hernán Murno during his frequent trips to Argentina. It comprises abstractions of rural and urban landscapes from different parts of the country. They’re painted on paper, canvas and wood panels, and, as the artist puts it, “are not meant to be exact photographic representations; I don’t even paint what my eyes have seen.” The paintings “reflect what the colors, the rocky formations, the mountains, impress upon me.” Painted sometimes geometrically, others more organic, the pieces emphasize, colors, textures, shapes, and reflections of the subjects at hand. The show runs through the end of January 2022. GLOBAL ‘CHANGEMAKERS’ MARK 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF FULBRIGHT PROGRAM A veritable who’s who of American and foreign diplomats, public servants, educators, scientists, musicians and artists came together Nov. 30 to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Fulbright Program, one of the world’s most widely recognized and prestigious scholarships. The 90-minute event, broadcast live from Washington’s Kennedy Center, reached thousands of viewers around the world, including many of the 160 countries where the Fulbright Program operates. Funded by US taxpayers—with additional support from corporations, foundations and partner nations—Fulbright is the US government’s flagship international academic exchange program, providing around 8,000 grants annually.
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JOHN ERIC HOME
LIVE CONCERTS ARE BACK AS EMBASSY SERIES THANKS PATRONS FOR SUPPORT In its 27-year history, the Embassy Series has hosted over 600 concerts at nearly 80 partner embassies, and at the University Club of Washington. This gives host countries a chance to showcase their music and culture in the United States; audience members are invited to dine and interact with featured artists following their performances. Until the pandemic shut its operations in March 2020, the Embassy Series held an average of 25 concerts annually. Like many other organizations, it moved online, salvaging what it could of the year’s events into a virtual format, including a livestreamed piano concert through the Polish Embassy. To the Series delight, many patrons increased their donations, even when the nonprofit couldn’t host live concerts. The contributions helped fund the group’s first in-person event since the pandemic: an outdoor concert at the Czech Embassy by a string quartet performing the works of Mozart and Dvořák that was held on September 29th.
PURVEYOR OF THE WA SHINGTONIAN LUXURY LIFEST YLE
+1 703 798 0097 | john@johneric.com Compass is a licensed real estate brokerage that abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Compass is licensed as Compass Real Estate in DC and as Compass in Virginia and Maryland. 107 3001 Washington Blvd., Suite 400, Arlington, VA 22201 | 703.822.7400
ELEGANCE. SOPHISTICATION. STYLE. We are pleased to bring to you a portfolio of some of the most luxurious properties currently on offer in the United States. Amazing homes and estates from Scottsdale to Southern California, from New York to Turks & Caicos and – of course – from Washington DC to Northern Virginia to Suburban Maryland. The John Eric + Trevor Moore Team, along with its real estate partners nationwide, have their fingers on the pulse of luxury. johnandtrevor.com
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Compass is a licensed real estate brokerage that abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is not guar
JOHN ERIC HOME as Compass in Virginia and Maryland. 3001 Washington Blvd., Suite 400, Arlington, VA 22201 | 703.822.7400
LUXURY IS NOT A PRICE POINT, IT’S A STATE OF MIND.
ranteed. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Compass is licensed as Compass Real Estate in DC and
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LOST CORNER MIDDLEBURG VIRGINIA
SOLD
Feel a world away from it all in this luxurious stucco retreat just 20 minutes from the historic town of Middleburg. Enjoy meaningful moments and fireside chats with your friends and family in the large, open kitchen and living room with ample space and seating areas for everyone to dine and relax. The kitchen is exquisite with top-of-the-line appliances. Just off the kitchen is a cozy dining room, perfect for family dinners! The 12 ft ceilings and large windows throughout usher in natural light and 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge mountains. Relax and unwind in the main floor master suite offering a seating area, large closet with custom built-ins, private access to the pool and patio, and bathroom with marble countertops, double vanity, and a glass-enclosed shower with “waterfall” showerhead. As you venture outdoors, you are greeted with a large in-ground pool surrounded by beautiful english gardens. PROPERTY FEATURES 6 bedrooms 4 baths | 1.5 half bath 4,708 Square feet
JOHN ERIC john@johnandtrevor.com +1 703 798 0097 johnandtrevor.com
MACKALL FARMS MCLEAN VIRGINIA
SOLD
Since its inception, when Artisan Builders introduced the 2005 Southern Accents Showhome, we have been crafting innovative homes to McLean and Great Falls clients. Each year we have striven to offer new designs that are fresh and timeless. Today, after 15 years, we present the 2020 Aspire Showhome, offering a modern design inspired by the Renaissance Architecture of Andrea Palladio. The floor plan brings together everything Artisan has learned over these 15 years from listening to its clients, the market and its architect, Harrison Associates. The spaces are light filled, complimented not only with large floor to ceiling windows, but inspired by Palladio, light from the sky above. The floor plan is open while still appreciating the need for privacy and elegant entertaining, and with the Main Level Owner’s Suite a seamless visual connection to the manicured landscaped rear yard. The museum quality craftsmanship is also a reflection of our experience, and you will notice this in every detail inside and outside the home. We are proud to call the Aspire Showhome, an Artisan Masterpiece. PROPERTY FEATURES 5 bedrooms 5 baths | 3.5 half bath 9,588 Square feet
JOHN ERIC john@johnandtrevor.com +1 703 798 0097 johnandtrevor.com
4884 WILLIAMSBURG BLVD ARLINGTON VIRGINIA
SOLD
This single-family craftsman-style home is amazing. Five bedrooms, four full baths, one half bath and loads of spacious rooms. Hardwood floors and magnificent windows that allow the home to be filled with natural light. Crown molding, coffered and tray ceilings, tiled bathrooms, gas fireplace, dual zone HVAC system, built-in closet and book shelves are but a preview of what this home has to offer. The open plan design of this home seamlessly connects the home chef with family and friends while cooking. The kitchen, family room and dining room combination are bathed in natural light. A crisp, white kitchen offers Thermador stainless steel appliances, good cabinet space, a porcelain farm sink, and gorgeous granite countertops. The floating island provides not only convenience but additional seating space. The great room conjoins the kitchen and offers loads of space. From this area is access to an outside deck, perfect for enjoying a morning coffee or an evening cocktail. 4884 Williamsburg Boulevard is a home that checks all the boxes. Its location, spaces and amenities offer all that is important to create a true oasis for today’s busy lifestyle. PROPERTY FEATURES 5 bedrooms 4 baths | 1.5 half bath 5,407 Square feet JOHN ERIC john@johnandtrevor.com +1 703 798 0097 johnandtrevor.com
5624 34TH STREET N. ARLINGTON VIRGINIA
SOLD
This gorgeous craftsman style home effortlessly brings together modern living and elegance. Full of amazing features, this house is not one to miss. Driving up to this home, you immediately recognize its curbside appeal. Beautifully landscaped, with a driveway created from paving stones, it is simply perfect. The front porch draws you in, and as you enter the home, you are greeted with soaring ceilings, extensive custom millwork, hardwood floors and amazing windows that allow sunlight to flood the rooms. You immediately know that this house is the place that you’ll want to call home. PROPERTY FEATURES 6 bedrooms 5 baths | 1 half bath 7,226 Square feet
JOHN ERIC john@johnandtrevor.com +1 703 798 0097 johnandtrevor.com
GRAND ANSE MAIN RD ST GEORGE’S GRENADA W.I.
What began as a resort has gradually evolved into a living, breathing community of like-minded guests and residents. Our 8 sumptuous beachfront and seaview villas provide a private hideaway among the colors, culture, tastes and sensations of Grenada. Perfect for gazing at the stars, or staring out to sea, our villas offer the luxury and exclusivity of a self-contained home, with all the benefits of a five-star hotel. Just another one of our beautiful contradictions. PROPERTY FEATURES 3-4 bedrooms 3.5-4.5 baths 5,076 Square feet
KANDACE DOUGLAS Real Estate Sales and Marketing Director +1 917 272 4851 kdouglas@silversandsgrenada.com www.silversandsvillas.com
THE SUMMIT BLUE MOUNTAIN PROVIDENCIALES TURKS & CAICOS
Rising to more than 150 feet and commanding, unobstructed and unmatched panoramic views of Provo’s famed Grace Bay, “The Summit” – a gated enclave on Blue Mountain’s peak - represents the ultimate in stylish villa living. Elegance, style, and cool modern design effortlessly combine with sophisticated, intelligent, & sustainable efficiency; a living experience that simultaneously commands and harmonizes with its stunning natural setting; floor-to-ceiling ‘glass curtain’ walls presenting breathtaking views from every room; an expansive open-plan indoor/outdoor living space, high-tech professional kitchen, inviting deck and infinity pool. At The Summit, all of these elements will combine to provide the ideal setting for languorous quiet moments, entertaining guests, or just immersing yourself in the eternal beauty of the endless blue water. Offered preconstruction this property can accommodate a 3 or a 4 bedroom villa with stunning views of the North Shore of the Turks & Caicos. PROPERTY FEATURES 4 bedrooms Pool 4.5 baths Solar energy package 7,059 Square feet Gated community
SEAN O’NEILL Managing Director, The Agency Turks & Caicos +1 649 232 1316 sean.oneill@theagencyre.tc www.theagencyre.tc
BLUE SEA #1 LOS CABOS BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR
Villa Blue Sea is a contemporary beachfront masterpiece and one of only a few properties offering this unique style in the Los Cabos market. The floor-to-ceiling glass doors capitalize on the amazing oceanfront location. This luxury home was designed for entertainment and relaxation with an infinity-edge pool overlooking the water, a large living space, a uniquely round TV room, and a professional-grade kitchen. In the Master Suite, you are again met with sea views. You will be welcomed by an amazing foyer with a Torote tree and 3 additional bedrooms, each with a private ensuite bathroom. Finally a 2 Casita-style bedrooms with a shared bath complete the home. Located in the middle of Cabo and San Jose, it’s just a short trip in either direction to take advantage of all the incredible benefits Los Cabos has to offer. PROPERTY FEATURES 6 bedrooms 5 baths | 2 half baths 6,832 Square feet
NICK FONG Owner and Broker +1 619 831 2000 info@ronival.com www.findmexicohouses.com
100 CLOISTER DRIVE SEA ISLAND GEORGIA
Encompassing an expansive 50-acre enclave of largely undisturbed land and marsh nestled between the Black Banks River and over 4,000 feet of pristine beachfront on the Atlantic Ocean, The Reserve at Sea Island offers endless opportunities as a family compound and retreat. It is a gated property within a gated community, within the luxury Forbes Five-Star resort of Sea Island, and includes an expansive conservation preserve protecting the southern end of Sea Island, ensuring that your ocean estate remains a private sanctuary for your family for generations.This unique offering has been designed not just for a family of today, but a family for generations. You have the freedom to build multiple homes – creating a true family compound. Ownership includes a private boat slip at The Cloister offering ocean access. It also includes unmatched, multi-generational memberships to Sea Island Club* and Frederica Golf Club*, a truly unique privilege. *Membership requires application and approval.
COREY MCBRIDE Director of Sales +1 912 209 9400 cmcbride@imiliving.com https://thereserveseaisland.com
150 FREDERICA STABLES DRIVE ST. SIMONS ISLAND GEORGIA
Located within the private 1,700-acre community of Frederica, this limited collection of 21 premier lakefront properties blends the natural splendor of coastal Georgia’s unique landscape with unparalleled amenities. With the offering of Frederica Estates, a select number of families have the opportunity to interpret their own vision of a family homestead. Whether you choose an Estate (approximately 8 to 12 acres), a Grand Estate (approximately 15 to 25 acres) or a Legacy Estate (approximately 26 to 40+ acres), you will enjoy waterfront views and access to the largest freshwater lake in Coastal Georgia, Frederica Lake. Each property offers an abundance of land to create your own family compound with estate homes, amenities, landscape, and any experience that you wish. Along with this purchase comes a unique multigenerational membership offering that is in a class by itself. As an owner, you’ll enjoy privileged access to Frederica Golf Club* as well as the award-winning Sea Island Club*. *Membership requires application and approval.
COREY MCBRIDE Director of Sales +1 912 226 4550 cmcbride@imiliving.com https://fredericaestates.com/
10114 ENCHANTED OAK DRIVE ORLANDO FLORIDA
SOLD
Welcome to The Beauvoir, surrounded by extravagance and comfort. Golden Oak at Walt Disney World® Resort is one of the most distinct and desirable neighborhoods in Orlando. Located behind the exclusive gates of Carolwood, this enchanting 9,056 SqFt masterpiece features state of the art design & architecture throughout the entire home. As you make your way throughout the home, you’ll notice the relaxation and luxury that each space throughout this home brings. As you enter through the front door, you will notice the outdoor living space. When you are walking around outside, take in all of the relaxing and peaceful features this outdoor living space brings to the home. This space sets a beautiful display for the private pool, lounge and outdoor dining area. Strolling throughout the interior, you will notice the fine details that went into the creation of this estate. Entering in to the owners suite, you are welcomed by an immaculate bathroom featuring a walk-in shower, soaking tub and a grand custom dual closet space. Movie nights here are a must with an entertaining custom home theater, so grab the popcorn and kids and enjoy a fun Disney movie night. This privately gated community features a multitude of very distinct and unique neighborhoods, filled with beautiful homes, expansive natural preserves and awesome amenities! When living in Golden Oak, you gain access to the private clubhouse, Summerhouse, with delicious eats served in the beautiful dining room, access to the courtyards, club pool, fitness facilities, and family room. In addition, residents have access to Club Life, which gives you full access to the Golden Oak Member Services team, theme park transportation, exclusive club events, Extra Magic Hours and more! Alongside Golden Oak is the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort, which features “Tranquilo”, an 18-hole golf course, full-service spa, meeting facilities, and excellent restaurants. Turn this dream into your dream home today! THE MCKEE GROUP Orlando Founding Agents +1 407 948 0658 matt@mattmckee.com themckeegroup.com
1445 W HANSEN PEAK ROAD JACKSON WYOMING
SOLD
Situated on 55 acres atop Hansen Peak, Camp Teton offers stunning views of the iconic Teton Mountain Range over the confluence of the Snake and Gros Ventre Rivers. Bar BC, named after one of the first dude ranches founded in Jackson Hole in 1912, offers unparalleled privacy among a diverse array of wildlife, and lies just 9 miles north of Jackson and 6 miles from the Jackson Hole airport. Focused on the combination of work, play, health & family, Camp Teton is the culmination of a lifetime of experiences, a vision for what is possible, and execution that can never be replicated. Camp Teton invites you to appreciate the history of the maker and to participate in creating the next chapter for decades to come. PROPERTY FEATURES 9 bedrooms 14 baths 14,280 Square feet Infinity Pool Spa Indoor/Outdoor Dining Area Office Wine Cave Guest House
GRAHAM FAUPEL MENDENHALL & ASSOCIATES +1 307 690 0204 gfm@compass.com grahamfaupelmendenhall.com
9115 STATE HIGHWAY 89 RUBICON BAY CALIFORNIA
SOLD
A striking and intimate estate on Lake Tahoe’s stunning West Shore with a white sand beach along with a 172’ pier, 12k# boat lift and 4 buoys. Three homes with grand entertainment capability offer extended privacy with meandering paths to each. The first thing you see on entry is our beautiful Lake Tahoe. Built for lifestyle, this residence envelops you in the warmth of beautiful woods, evoking dreams of family gatherings in this open living/dining/kitchen and family room beyond. There are two wood-burning fireplaces, a beautiful guest suite along with an office and powder room. The Principal Suite is nicely separated from the rest of the home. Stairs go up to a game/ sitting area and open to three bedrooms, a huge bunk room and two well-appointed baths. So that makes six bedrooms and four-and-a-half baths. The Rubicon Pavilion a beautiful structure that was created for entertaining with a small kitchen and outside BBQ for al fresco dining along with a 5-Star suite for special guests. An interesting copper enclosure in the roof along with an exquisite chandelier. In addition to the two buildings there is a Carriage House with tandem four-car garage with an EV charger, an upper 2 bedroom suite apartment and a lower 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom apartment off the patio. Natural landscaping comes into full bloom in June with trees turning colors in the fall.
TRINKIE WATSON Lake Tahoe Regional Broker +1 530 582 0722 twatson@chaseinternational.com www.LakeTahoeLuxuryEstates.com
FINLEY ROAD ICONIC SAN FRANCISCO EAST BAY EQUESTRIAN PROPERTY SOLD
Wrap yourself in the sophisticated comfort of a modern day farmhouse and country living right in San Francisco’s East Bay scenic Tassajara Valley. Twenty-six verdant acres of rolling hillsides and sprawling pastures await you. New yet rustic, and expansive but with a cozy ambience, this 6,228 square-foot, two-level home features five bedrooms including a main level master suite and guest suite. The masterfully designed chef’s kitchen, the heart of this farmhouse, showcases fine finishes and appliances and a climate controlled 800+ bottle wine cellar Stroll along the country drive to the newer constructed two-level barn, an ideal abode for horses and the ultimate party venue or “man cave” in the private second level. Saddle up for a ride with direct access from the property to 100+ miles of trails in Mt. Diablo State Park. This is your opportunity to create the quintessential homestead without compromising the convenient proximity to freeways, shopping and dining options in the East Bay. PROPERTY FEATURES 5 bedrooms 5.5 baths 6,228 Square feet
JIM WALBERG & ANN MARIE NUGENT Luxury Estates & Equestrian Properties +1 925 260 8883 annmarie.nugent@compass.com TheBayAreaTeam.com
109 7TH AVENUE SAN FRANCISCO CALIFORNIA
COMING SOON
Retreat to the warmth of this elegant home, enriched with hardwood floors, modern fixtures, and high ceilings throughout the spacious rooms. Hosted on the main floor are the common spaces that flow naturally from living to dining to chef’s kitchen to an expansive great room, ideal for entertaining and family play time. Complete with a full bathroom, hallway storage, and connected to a sunroom, the bright bedroom on this level comfortably accommodates guests. Unwind upstairs in the vast domain of the primary suite, featuring an intricate custom walk-in closet and spa-like bath. Two additional bedrooms, a full bathroom, and sunroom complete this level. Downstairs offers a 1-car garage, laundry, and an expansive storage space that works great as a home office or gym. Just one block to the revitalizing trails of the historic Presidio and transit to downtown SF. PROPERTY FEATURES 4 bedrooms 3.5 baths 3,222 Square feet
KEVIN WONG Broker Associate +1 415 290 2927 kevin.s.wong@compass.com kevinswong.com
123 SHERMAN STREET HEALDSBURG CALIFORNIA
PENDING
Recently sold! Chic in Downtown Healdsburg! Brand new construction that ticks all of the boxes. Single level 3BR/3BA Main house with a 1BR/1BA guest house. 8,000 sf lot, high end finishes including a chef’s kitchen. The bright interior has soaring vaulted ceilings with skylights. Open Floor Plan barely begins to describe this home, with its panoramic door the space flows seamlessly to the expansive rear deck and sparkling pool with spa. Resort-like backyard. Extremely rare offering just blocks to the plaza. PROPERTY FEATURES 4 bedrooms 4 baths 2,107 Square feet
Pool Guest house Downtown location
BOB PENNYPACKER +1 707 799 6032 bob.pennypacker@sothebysrealty.com www.bobpennypacker.com
2782 ANDREW DOUGLAS FLAGSTAFF ARIZONA
Luxury mountain living at its absolute finest, this custom-log home is in the sought-after community of Forest Highlands. Carved and set gently amid granite boulders, pines and aspens, this luxury king-log home stands on a premier lot beside the 7th tee. Spectacular prized views of the San Francisco Peaks from three covered decks, constructed with logs rescued from a fire in Yellowstone Park. The elemental warmth of wood and stone when you enter this home will immediately remind you of a high mountain resort. A tribute to nature, met equally with the warmth you will want to call...home. Turn-key, includes most furniture and multiple recent upgrades including: New Roof (50yr.), New AC, Remodeled Bathroom, Log maintenance, new carpet and lighting. PROPERTY FEATURES 4 bedrooms 5 baths 6,100 Square feet Clubhouse Golf
Playground Pool/Spa Recreation Center Tennis Court Trails
CHAD DRAGOS +1 928 890 9155 chad.dragos@theagencyre.com luxuryflagstaff.com
27097 N 117TH PL SCOTTSDALE ARIZONA
PENDING
Privacy and beauty are at the forefront of everything North Scottsdale provides, from the sophisticated estates, to the noteworthy schools and thriving businesses nearby, many of those with discerning tastes seek to reside here. Where they can enjoy a quiet night in North Scottsdale—a luxury in and of itself. PROPERTY FEATURES 4 bedrooms 5 baths 4,965 Square feet
NICOLE KOBRINSKY +1 480 487 4534 nicole@nicolekobrinsky.com www.nicolekobrinsky.com
20 KILBARRY ROAD TORONTO ONTARIO
SOLD
Situated in the heart of Deer Park & steps away from the Beltline Trail/Oriole Park, U.C.C., subway. This is a whole lot of house; 7 bedrooms & 7 bathrooms, 3 floor plusa finished basement & a garage. Classic finishes including hardwood floors, coffered ceiling, crown moldings, 3 fireplaces, a family room & rec room. Almost 3500 sq ft above grade & a large finished basement = 4700 sq ft! PROPERTY FEATURES 5+2 bedrooms 7 baths 4,700 Square feet
RICHARD SILVER Sales Representative +1 416 960 9995 rsilver@sothebysrealty.ca www.torontoism.com
21 E CEDAR ST CHICAGO ILLINOIS
SOLD
Spectacular home in the heart of the Gold Coast! This limestone masterpiece is city living at its finest. Luxury residential street with a rare, stunning 6+ bedroom, 5 and a half bath single family home custom built in 2010 on a 30-foot lot. Chic architectural details and high ceilings immediately take your breath away in the living and dining rooms suitable for intimate dinners, gatherings or large events. Large Chef’s eat-in kitchen walks out to patio and BBQ. Top of-theline appliances and floor-to-ceiling windows make the prep space a cooks dream. Full primary suite level complete with spacious bedroom, large sitting area, office, closets galore, and spa bathroom. This ultimate entertaining home has an elevator to each level and the top floor features a spectacular penthouse with two flanking decks, a full bar set-up, and tons of room for guests. High-tech home with fully integrated Savant Smart Home System for all sound, lighting, and security. Enjoy a life of luxury with 3 magnificent outdoor spaces, game room, surround-sound theater, gym, 2 to 3-car attached heated garage with 2 more spots available in the garage next door. PROPERTY FEATURES 6 bedrooms 5.1 baths 7,900 Square feet JOANNE NEMEROVSKI Compass - Founding Member +1 312 720 4505 joannesellschicago@gmail.com joannesellschicago.com
56 LEONARD STREET | PH54 NEW YORK NEW YORK
SOLD
World-class vistas and boldly innovative design by Pritzker-Prize-Winning Herzog & de Meuron embody this 5,492sf penthouse cantilevered within iconic 56 Leonard’s cascading Art Deco crown. Unprecedented modern design, 1,587sf of multiple terraces, dramatic unobstructed views, and soaring ceiling heights place this penthouse among the most extraordinary properties in the world. Astonishing in its beauty, TriBeCa’s global landmark ascends sixty-stories into the Downtown skyline and elicits awe and admiration from architecture connoisseurs around the world. The fullservice condominium building includes over 17,000sf of top-tier amenities as well as 24/7 white glove service. PROPERTY FEATURES 4 bedrooms 4.5 baths 5,492 Square feet 4 Terraces 360° Views
TONI HABER Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker +1 917 543 1999 toni@compass.com
LEE POND ESTATE WESTWOOD MASSACHUSETTS
This spectacular Rich Levy-designed contemporary is perfectly set at the end of a long winding drive on over 36± secluded acres. It offers 10,000 sq ft of open living area, which takes advantage of long views over the infinity pool to a stream-fed pond with classic boat house. The arboretumlike grounds are a wonder. Inside, details such as floor-to-ceiling windows that rise to 20 foot heights, and a three-season porch create a seamless flow from outdoors to in. Thoughtfully conceived, with interior design by Meichi Peng, the house includes soaring Venetian plaster walls, porcelain tile floors with radiant heat, a stunning kitchen, a beautiful primary suite, plus 5 ensuite bedrooms including a connected 2-bedroom guest house. There is also a glass enclosed wine cellar, a home theater, and a substantial gym. A workshop and studio space can be found in the 2,800 sq ft barn across the large circular driveway from the main house. This private estate offers an ideal work-from-home environment while being close to downtown Boston. It is less than 5 minutes to Rte.128 with outstanding local shopping and restaurants. Excellent local public and private schools.
RUTH KENNEDY SUDDUTH Vice Chair +1 617 357 0455 rkennedy@landvest.com www.landvest.com
422 LANDS END LANE SHELBURNE VERMONT
Land’s End is THE crown jewel of Shelburne. This exquisite property is sited on 10.1 acres at the tip of Shelburne Point, a very private enclave with only 8 properties on the surrounding 100 acres. Amenities include 1,300 feet of private shoreline, a stunning 6,600 sf custom 6 BR, 8 BA contemporary, c2016, and breathtaking lake, mountain and city views. PROPERTY FEATURES 6 bedrooms 8 baths 6,603 Square feet Lakefront Outdoor Entertainment Space
Firepit Gym Guest Suite Fireplaces, Barn High-Speed Internet
RUTH KENNEDY SUDDUTH Vice Chair +1 617 357 0455 rkennedy@landvest.com www.landvest.com
STONE BRIDGE COMPOUND WOODSTOCK VERMONT
Room for all, close to town, very private: The Stone Bridge compound comprises a capacious and thoughtfully-built 2002 5824sf Craftsman Style home set at the end of a private way, with a guest house on a separate lot. Lovely views to Killington: the western exposure makes for dramatic sunsets from the wide stone patio. Comfortable in all seasons, the spaces flow from open kitchen to living and dining areas warmed by a fireplace (with a conveniently located bar off the living area). Main level primary suite, second-floor primary, plus two bedrooms with shared bath and guest suite. The lower level offers a sports pub, gym and indoor spa. The guesthouse is privately sited away from the main house, with two bedrooms, two baths, fireplaced living room, dining room, kitchen and study. Site quality, location, and amenities make for a great compound offering. PROPERTY FEATURES 4 bedrooms 5 baths 5,824 Square feet Gym
Fireplace Entertainment Room Bold Views Guest House
RUTH KENNEDY SUDDUTH Vice Chair +1 617 357 0455 rkennedy@landvest.com www.landvest.com
24 SHORE ROAD SOUTHWEST HARBOR MAINE
Dartholm, located on quiet Shore Road in Southwest Harbor overlooking the picturesque harbor, has had an unusual history. Originally built as a dance hall in the early 1900’s, Dartholm was repurposed to become the summer residence for the president of Dartmouth (hence its unique name), and recently updated to be a gracious shingle-style cottage available for year-round living. Views from the traditional cottage are expansive, with yachts and lobster boats traversing the harbor, scenic views of Somes Sound, the Cranberry Islands and mountains of Acadia beyond. Dartholm optimizes what life on the waterfront has to offer. PROPERTY FEATURES 5 bedrooms 4 baths 3,384 Square feet Deep Water Dock Mooring
Harborfront Fireplaces Guest House Outdoor Entertainment Area
RUTH KENNEDY SUDDUTH Vice Chair +1 617 357 0455 rkennedy@landvest.com www.landvest.com
1 TWIN ST & 2 FARMER ST NANTUCKET MASSACHUSETTS
SOLD
A rare Historic District offering; not one but two stunning examples of impeccable craftsmanship deftly spun with modern standards of comfort and luxury. These historic homes occupy separate, abutting lots tucked away off of quiet and alluring Fair Street and were designed with entertaining in mind. With interior spaces spanning over 10,000 square feet and featuring 11 bedrooms, these properties make for the perfect multi-generational Nantucket estate. Both meticulously renovated, 2 Farmer Street exudes an intimate and historical feel, while 1 Twin Street leans towards a more relaxed and contemporary style. With 22 steps across a lush and private yard between them, your family can dance with ease between the two homes to suit your needs. PROPERTY FEATURES 11 bedrooms 10 full baths | 3 half baths 9,160 Square feet
J. BRENT TARTAMELLA Sales & Rental Agent +1 508 901 0191 brent@fishernantucket.com www.fishernantucket.com
13849 RAMAH OAKS LANE HUNTERSVILLE NORTH CAROLINA
SOLD
Experience this serene 2.70 acre hilltop estate with renovations top to bottom. Fresh paint inside and out, quartzite and marble tops in kitchen also featuring 5.5 baths. Triple crown molding on main. 5” pine wood flooring throughout main and second floors. Owner’s suite on main - owner’s bath with tub/shower. New lighting throughout. Upstairs: 3 BR, each with full bath access. Enjoy a bonus space & nook w/ built-ins! Lower level features fully finished walkout basement- laundry area, gym, game room, family room, & office. You will love the whole house water filtration, tankless water heater, a 2 yr old HVAC system and brand new roof installed in Sept, 2021. Outside welcomes you w/ a stunning oasis: custom stone fireplace & pool house finished with kitchen. Pool specs: 46,000 gallons, gunite and Pebbletec - separate spa, silver travertine pool deck and coping. Awesome built in outdoor kitchen. Take the walking path & check out the small farm and nature all around. Extra parking and oversized attached 2-car garage. PROPERTY FEATURES 4 bedrooms 5 baths | 1 half bath 5,302 Square feet
PRIDEMORE PROPERTIES Mike Hege/ Broker, Owner +1 704 491 9445 mike.hege@compass.com pridemoreproperties.com
1888 W HARPETH RD FRANKLIN TENNESSEE
SOLD
This gated quintessential white modern farmhouse with expansive hilltop views is nestled on 20+ acres near Leiper’s Fork just outside of Nashville. With a recent million-dollar renovation and designer features, the breathtaking interior is matched by an outstanding outdoor sanctuary of living and recreational space. Listed at $7,000,000 sold for $8,200,000 - 1 Day on the Market
PROPERTY FEATURES 5 bedrooms 5 full baths | 3 half baths 7,834 Square feet 20+ Acres 3 Car Garage Control4 System
Saltwater Infinity Pool & Spa Outdoor Kitchen & Decks Pond Sport Court Putting Green Guest Quarters
ERIN KRUEGER Team Lead +1 615 509 7166 erin@erinkrueger.com erinkrueger.com
4760 SHARPSVILLE RD MURFREESBORO TENNESSEE
Just a short drive from Nashville is this one-of-a-kind equestrian estate. With over 14,000 sqft, the home is overflowing with western elegance and features unique custom design elements around every corner! The 90+ acre estate encompasses a guest house, remote office, various farm buildings, a stunning backyard retreat and so much more! Listed at $9,300,000 PROPERTY FEATURES 5 bedrooms 6 full baths | 3 half baths 14,096 Square feet Horse Arena 9 Stall Horse Barn Guest House
Hay Barn 4 Car Garage Remote Office 90+ Acres Saltwater Pool & Spa 2 Outdoor Kitchens
ERIN KRUEGER Team Lead +1 615 509 7166 erin@erinkrueger.com erinkrueger.com
395 THE LADY OF THE LAKE LN FRANKLIN TENNESSEE
This stately home is perched on a private cove backing to 100+ acres of common space in the highly sought-after gated Tors of Avalon community. The lovely estate encompasses an incredible home theatre, wine cellar, bar, keeping room, chef’s kitchen and so much more. This timeless home is an entertainer’s dream! Listed at $4,200,000 PROPERTY FEATURES 5 bedrooms 6 full baths | 3 half baths 11,038 Square feet
4 Car Garage Saltwater Pool 1.71 Acres
ERIN KRUEGER Team Lead +1 615 509 7166 erin@erinkrueger.com erinkrueger.com
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7735 old georgetown road, suite 700 bethesda, md 20814 240.333.2000
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