
Health & Wellness


It is with immense pleasure to announce the Outstanding Student-Athlete of the Month as selected by the Anna Independent School District Athletic Coaching Team. This month’s selection is Ayonna Cooper.
Ayonna is a senior with a deep passion for sports and academic excellence. Her favorite color is black, and she is an avid supporter of the NBA’s Golden State Warriors. In school, her favorite subject is Math and Health Science Theory, showing a strong aptitude for problem-solving and understanding the complexities of health and science.
As a small forward, she has been playing basketball for six years, honing her skills and leadership on the court. Her dedication to basketball has been recognized with the prestigious 2023-2024 District 4A Most Valuable Player
award. In addition to basketball, she is also involved in track and field, specifically in discus and shot-put throwing.
Looking ahead, she has ambitious goals for her final year in high school. She aims to achieve 10 double-doubles this basketball season and help her team advance beyond the second round of playoffs. After graduation, she envisions continuing her athletic journey at the collegiate level, striving to play basketball at a higher stage. Her commitment to both academics and athletics highlights her discipline, leadership, and drive to succeed.
Congratulations to Ayonna and her selection as January Outstanding Athlete of the Month!
As we step into the new year, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on our health and wellness aspirations. A new chapter offers us a fresh opportunity to prioritize both our physical and mental well-being. We’re excited to embark on this journey with you, offering inspiration and guidance as you work toward becoming the healthiest, happiest version of yourself.
This year let’s embrace wellness in all its forms— from nourishing our bodies with wholesome foods and staying active to fostering a balanced mind. True health is a comprehensive pursuit. It’s not just about meeting fitness goals or following fleeting trends, but about creating sustainable habits that support long-term vitality, selfcare, and happiness. Small, consistent actions toward healthier choices can lead to significant transformation over time.
In this issue, we focus on enhancing your health, fitness, finances, and relationships, while also highlighting the importance of mental well-being. Practice like mindfulness, meditation, and meaningful connections are just as essential to our overall wellness as exercise or nutrition.
The new year offers a chance to reset, refocus, and build a solid foundation for your well-being. As we face new challenges, let’s remember that wellness is a continuous journey, not a destination. With determination, self-compassion, and the right tools, we can make 2025 a year of growth, health, and happiness.
Here’s to a year filled with vitality, balance, and joy. Together, let’s make 2025 our healthiest year yet!
Warm regards,
ANGIE TERRY, PUBLISHER @ANNACITYLIFESTYLE
January 2025
PUBLISHER
Angie Terry | angie.terry@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Shannon Roberts | shannon.roberts@citylifestyle.com
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
Sponsored by T Wilson
Dear Neighbors,
Happy New Year! As we turn the page to 2025, I’m reminded of how service can unite us in meaningful ways. January brings the opportunity to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy through the National Day of Service. This day not only commemorates his extraordinary contributions to civil rights but also calls us to action—to strengthen our community through acts of service.
This year, I encourage everyone to get involved and make a difference. One way to serve is by supporting our 3rd annual Coyote Pack Food Drive, benefiting the Food Backpack Project. This program provides essential weekend meals for students in need. We are collecting donations in the Municipal Complex lobby through January 17. On Friday, Jan. 17, we’ll come together to pack the boxes from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in honor of the MLK Day of Service. I’d love to see you there, helping us make a tangible impact on our students and families.
For me, this day is particularly special as I look forward to being out in the community, meeting more of you, and working alongside our incredible residents. Serving together not only uplifts our city but also fosters deeper connections between neighbors.
Looking for more service opportunities? Visit www.annatexas. gov/volunteer to find ways you can contribute. Whether it’s assisting with the food drive, beautifying our parks, or volunteering with nonprofits, there’s something for everyone to get involved.
Dr. King once said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” This January let’s answer that question by coming together to build a stronger, more united Anna. Your passion and commitment inspire me, and I’m excited about what we can accomplish as we work side by side.
Thank you for being part of this wonderful community. Let’s make 2025 a year of compassion, collaboration, and service. I hope to see you out there!
Timeless Magnolia Aesthetics in Melissa is dedicated to promoting healthy, radiant skin. They offer personalized treatments using advanced techniques and premium products. With a serene atmosphere and expert care, their services are designed to rejuvenate, boost confidence, and enhance beauty for all skin types, ensuring a luxurious experience tailored to each client’s needs.
HercSupps of Anna provides top-quality, premium supplements with expert guidance to support your fitness and health journey. Committed to offering only the best products, they emphasize the importance of what you put into your body for long-term health, vitality, and achieving your fitness goals. Trust their dedication to your wellness and success.
As an Edward Jones financial advisor, Alan G Thomas in Van Alstyne prioritizes understanding your goals before advising on investments. It’s essential to align your risk tolerance with steps that support long-term success. Whether planning for retirement, college savings, or securing your family’s future, he will create personalized strategies and monitor your progress.
The beginning of the year is packed with inspiration and motivation to get back on track after a sweet-filled holiday season. It can feel extreme, and it also can be depleting to cut oneself off from everything indulgent after weeks of eating favorite sweet and savory recipes. For sugar lovers who believe going cold-turkey feels intimidating or overwhelming, nutrition-packed desserts are a great way to stick to healthy food goals without the guilt.
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
This recipe is a classic favorite. If you cut the bars into 16 pieces, they are around 270 calories each. They are very filling, packed with healthy goodies and taste, oh so delicious. If you can’t finish them yourself (it makes a lot!), bring samples along to your next workout class to share the love. Your accountability group will be asking you for the recipe! These come in handy for a quick breakfast on-the-go or an afternoon snack. You’ll want to taste these out of the oven once they cool a bit... simply scrumptious.
Combine:
• 1 cup wheat flour
• 2 cups cooked quinoa, cooled
• 2 cups oats
• 2/3 cup of your choice of chopped nuts
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2/3 cup raisins
• Optional: chocolate chips as desired
• Optional: add additional seeds or nuts on hand such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc.
Notes: Boil quinoa at a 2:1 water to rice ratio. For estimating, 1/3 cup of uncooked quinoa yields 1 cup cooked quinoa.
Add this mixture slowly to combine:
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup peanut butter, almond butter or sunflower butter
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 banana
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes, or until when the edges get golden brown. Bake in a 9x13-inch glass dish. After they cool, slice and enjoy. Keep them covered to maintain freshness.
Danger ahead: this snack is amazing. It’s the easiest of the bunch and also satisfies a sweet tooth craving. This can be whipped together in just 5 minutes and makes just a small amount. Feel free to take creative liberty here with your amounts, but if you make it to this recipe, they are around 90 calories per bite.
1. Cut a banana into 8-10 small slices, around 1/2 inch each.
2. Spread 1/2 tablespoon of peanut butter (or your choice of nut butter) on each banana slice.
3. Drizzle a small amount of melted chocolate chips or caramel over each bite.
4. Freeze for 15-20 minutes and enjoy!
Pro tip: A dash of sea salt flakes on top of these can be *chef’s kiss.*
These are great to keep on hand in the freezer all weeklong. Once they set, add them to a closed container to keep the bananas from browning.
Late night snack cravings are real! When finding yourself rooting through the cabinets for a sweet fix, these protein cookie dough bites are a great way to curb temptation. This recipe yields around 20 small bites, which can be cut into small squares or rolled into dough balls. Each bite is around 105 calories. If you find the dough is a little too dry, add a dash of milk as needed.
Ingredients
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup peanut butter (or alternate nut or sunflower butter)
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• Chocolate chips as desired
Pro tip: Use mini chocolate chips and for a dash of savory add sea salt flakes on top. Once combined, store the bites in the refrigerator in a covered container to keep them moist.
ARTICLE BY SHANNON ROBERTS
As the calendar turns and a new year begins, many individuals take this opportunity to reflect on the past year and set resolutions for personal growth and improvement. New Year’s resolutions serve as a motivational spark to enhance various aspects of life, from health and wellness to personal finance and relationships. Here are some of the top resolutions that people consider each year, along with tips for success.
One of the most popular New Year’s resolutions is to improve overall health and fitness. Whether it’s shedding a few pounds, adopting a more balanced diet, or committing to regular exercise, these goals can significantly enhance well-being. Tips for Success:
• Set clear and achievable goals. Instead of saying “I’ll lose weight,” aim for “I’ll lose 10 pounds by March.”
• Create a workout schedule that fits your lifestyle, and consider joining a class or finding a workout buddy for motivation.
• Focus on nutrition by planning meals ahead of time and incorporating more whole foods into your diet.
In an increasingly uncertain financial landscape, resolutions related to personal finance are becoming more common. This could mean saving more money, reducing debt, or budgeting more effectively. Tips for Success:
• Create a detailed budget that outlines your income and expenses. Utilize apps or tools designed for budgeting.
• Set specific savings goals, such as saving for a vacation or building an emergency fund.
• Pay off high-interest debts first, and consider consolidating loans for better rates.
3.
Strengthening relationships with family, friends, or significant others is another top resolution. In our fast-paced lives, it can be easy to let vital connections slip away. Tips for Success:
• Schedule regular catch-ups or family dinners to stay connected.
• Make time for meaningful activities with loved ones, such as game nights or weekend outings.
• Develop good communication skills, and don’t hesitate to express appreciation or affection to those important to you.
Many people aim to invest in themselves by pursuing personal development goals. This might include learning a new skill, reading more books, or taking up a new hobby. Tips for Success:
• Enroll in online courses or workshops that interest you.
• Incorporate daily mindfulness practices, such as meditation or yoga, into your routine.
• Set aside regular “me time” for relaxation or engaging in hobbies that bring joy.
• Seek support from friends, family, or professionals if you find stress overwhelming.
Many people resolve to give back to their community through volunteering or participating in charitable activities. This not only helps those in need but also fosters a sense of fulfillment and connection. Tips for Success:
“Enter this new year with gratitude for this new chance to create your dreams.”
• Set a reading goal, such as one book a month, and keep a list of titles you want to explore.
— Avina Celeste
• Dedicate time each week to practice your new skills or hobbies to maintain motivation.
Mental health awareness has gained significant attention, leading individuals to prioritize stress management as a resolution. Practices such as mindfulness, meditation, or simply taking more time for oneself can greatly contribute to mental well-being. Tips for Success:
• Research local organizations or causes that resonate with you.
• Set a goal for volunteer hours, whether it’s once a month or weekly.
• Involve friends or family members to make it a shared commitment.
The New Year brings a chance to redefine goals and embark on a journey of self-improvement. Setting resolutions can provide direction and motivation, whether the focus is on health, finances, relationships, or personal growth. Individuals can foster lasting changes by approaching these resolutions with practical strategies and positive mindsets and making the most of the year ahead. Remember, the key to successful resolutions is persistence; setbacks may happen, but they can be overcome with determination and commitment. Here’s to a fulfilling year ahead!
ARTICLE AND
BY TYLER SHANE
Hearty food nourishes the body during cold winter months
What if we chose connection — cooking seasonal meals and allowing ourselves to pause to truly enjoy our food? Maybe cheesy bread could be served without the side of guilt.
As we continue to embrace the cold weather, we may find ourselves craving heavier and grounding foods as we retreat into hibernation. This change in appetite reflects our body’s desire to align with the cycles of nature. Moving into the New Year, it can be common to place more discipline or restrictions on our eating habits. But what if instead of dieting, we nourished ourselves by choosing to support the ebb and flow of our body’s seasons? What if we chose connection — cooking seasonal meals and allowing ourselves to pause to truly enjoy our food? Maybe cheesy bread could be served without the side of guilt. This Italian wedding soup recipe is simple in its approach, but the result is a hearty and brothy dish. Chunky meats and vegetables add texture to the rich, savory broth making it the ideal meal to help you retreat from the cold temperatures. The Hasselback bread loaf is a straightforward, melty wonder and the perfect vessel for sopping up any leftover broth and goodies in your soup bowl. Together, the soup and cheesy bread make for a well-rounded meal to ground you this season, with a little indulgence.
CONTINUED >
• 1 Italian bread loaf
• 1 cup butter
• 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 8 oz. bag of shredded mozzarella cheese
1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. Cut foil that is 3 times the length of the bread loaf and lay flat on countertop.
3. Place bread loaf parallel to the length of the foil.
4. With a serrated knife, cut bread in ¾ in. slices, making not to cut all the way through.
5. Melt butter in a bowl. Add garlic and seasonings. Stir to incorporate.
6. With a pastry brush, coat the slices of bread with butter mixture. Be generous with your butter! If you have leftover butter, pour the rest over the entire loaf.
7. Grab handfuls of mozzarella cheese and stuff in between each slice.
8. Cover the bread loaf with foil and place in oven. Bake for 20 minutes, uncovering the foil for the last 5 minutes until the top of the bread is golden brown.
4 Servings
• 1 lb. fresh or frozen pre-made meatballs
• ½ cup carrots, diced small
• ½ cup celery, diced small
• 1 cup onions, diced small
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp cooking oil
• 48 oz low sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup orzo pasta (or any small, short noodle)
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp fresh ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped roughly
• 1 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley
1. Whether freshly baked or cooked from frozen, prepare your meatballs and set aside. Meatballs can be prepared ahead of time and kept in the fridge.
2. Bring a medium-sized pot to medium heat. Add oil and butter.
3. Add vegetables to the pot and sweat until onions are translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir occasionally.
4. Add the bay leaf, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to vegetables. Turn heat to medium-high.
5. Bring broth mixture to a rolling boil for five minutes. With tongs, add meatballs to the boiling broth.
6. Add orzo to the broth, stirring continuously to make sure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
7. Continue to cook the pasta for 6-7 minutes. Taste test to make sure pasta is al dente.
8. Throw the fresh herbs into the soup and add salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve immediately.
HEAR FROM N.A.S.M. CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINER ABOUT ESTABLISHING THE BEST HABITS
ARTICLE BY KRISTIN BURNELL
The new year is a classic kick off to start fresh and build many resolutions that we all hope stick around. How many times do your resolutions fall through each year? It can be challenging to build new habits and switch up routines if you’re looking for a change. That’s why we rounded up the best advice to establishing habits and making them stay for good. We spoke with Danielle Johnston, National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) certified personal trainer and aspiring kinesiologist, who broke down her top tips to maintaining healthy habits this new year.
Think 1-3 things maximum and then give yourself at least a month or two to apply the change. If you like to eat and cook, maybe try a new recipe or browse a cookbook in the library or bookstore for inspiration. If you like fashion, maybe try cleaning out a section of your closet (i.e. tops, bottoms, shoes, etc) to make way for 1 new piece. If you like being outdoors, maybe you try adding in just a 5 minute walk down the road.
If you miss a day or make a mistake with whatever resolution you’re working on, take that next opportunity to try again. Danielle uses the goal to eat healthier as an example. Health can be interpreted in many different ways but if you can take the small first step of looking at ingredients, that alone can make a world’s difference in the recipe you use so maybe you don’t even have to alter or substitute it. Or if your goal is to snack less but one day you snack more, don’t wave the flag and sabotage your efforts. Take a minute to breathe through the moment and then move on, enjoying the ebb and flow of health instead of going all in or nothing. Starting small allows you to adjust everyday habits that will, with time, transition to lifestyle changes.
Danielle says to create 1 health resolution, 1 personal resolution, and 1 professional resolution as it is the best format to better yourself in multiple realms instead of just physical health. Too often, we get caught up in this “New Year New Me” mindset and create a list of things you want to change or start doing. But as they get lost in the busy to-do list of life and we forget,
“The new year is a classic kick off to start fresh and build many resolutions that we all hope stick around.”
we can also feel like a failure and revert to “I’ll try again tomorrow or next year”. But what if you don’t have to start over, just keep going.
Whether you keep a notebook of your habit building, or keep track on your phone, it is important to acknowledge the personal progress made. This will also help you see the future that you want to build as you make more desirable changes in your life. If you want to track how you feel after working out, it will serve as a reflection on the progress made through what has been written down. This will encourage you to continue pushing for your goals!
ARTICLE BY SHANNON ROBERTS
Adopting healthy money habits is crucial for achieving financial stability and ensuring long-term economic health. Whether you’re trying to pay off debt, save for a major purchase, or simply manage your finances more effectively, establishing positive habits can lead to greater peace of mind and financial success. Here are some essential healthy money habits to consider:
1. CREATE AND STICK TO A BUDGET
A budget is your financial roadmap. It helps you track income, expenses, and savings goals. Use a budgeting method that works for you, such as the 50/30/20 rule (50% needs, 30% wants, 20% savings). Track your spending regularly to identify areas to cut back. Adjust your budget as your financial situation changes.
An emergency fund acts as a financial safety net for unexpected expenses, such as medical bills or car repairs. Aim to save 3 to 6 months’ worth of living expenses. Start small with a goal of saving $500 or $1,000, then
expand from there. Consider a high-yield savings account for better interest rates.
3. PAY YOURSELF FIRST
Prioritizing savings and investments before other expenses ensures that you’re building wealth over time. Set up automatic transfers to your savings or retirement accounts each month. Treat savings like a recurring bill that must be paid. Challenge yourself to gradually increase the amount you save each month.
4. REDUCE AND MANAGE DEBT
Prioritize high-interest debts (e.g., credit cards) and consider debt snowball
“PERSONAL FINANCE IS ONLY 20% HEAD KNOWLEDGE. IT’S 80% BEHAVIOR!” – DAVE RAMSEY
or avalanche methods to pay them off. Avoid taking on new debt and use cash or debit cards instead of credit whenever possible. Regularly review your credit report and credit score, ensuring accuracy and identifying areas for improvement.
Planning for retirement is essential to ensure financial security later in life. Contribute to retirement accounts, such as a 401(k) or IRA, especially if your employer offers matching contributions. Increase your contributions gradually, especially when you receive raises. Diversify your investments to balance risk and return.
Understanding personal finance is key to making informed decisions about money management. Read books, take courses, or listen to podcasts on financial literacy. Stay updated on economic trends that may impact your finances. Join online communities or forums to learn from others’ experiences.
Being intentional about your spending helps eliminate impulse buys and encourages more satisfaction with your purchases. Use the 24-hour rule: wait a day before making non-essential
purchases. List needs versus wants to prioritize your spending. Seek alternatives, such as borrowing, renting, or sharing instead of buying.
Regularly assessing your financial goals helps keep you on track and motivated. Set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals for clarity. Schedule reviews of your progress quarterly or semi-annually. Celebrate milestones to maintain motivation and reinforce positive behaviors.
If you are unsure about your financial decisions, seeking professional advice can offer valuable insights. Consider working with a certified financial planner or advisor. Look for professionals who specialize in areas where you need help, such as retirement planning or investment advice. Be cautious of fees and ensure you understand their structure before committing.
Incorporating healthy money habits into your daily routine can significantly enhance your financial well-being. By setting clear goals, maintaining a budget, and prioritizing savings and debt management, you can pave the way for a more secure and stress-free financial future. Remember, consistency is key— small changes can lead to substantial improvements over time. Take the first step today towards fostering a healthier financial life!
JANUARY 2ND
Grace Place 505 N. Powell Pkwy Anna, TX | 7:45 AM
Join us on the first Thursday of every month for complimentary coffee and connections! All Greater Anna Chamber members are welcome to attend. Guests can join for up to 2 networking events prior to becoming a member. Remember to bring your business cards, $1 and a 30 second elevator speech! Someone will walk away with half the money collected.
JANUARY 8TH
Adults 50+ Book Club
Sherley Heritage Park, 101 S. Sherley Ave Anna, TX 75409 | 10:00 AM
A monthly book with various themes. Titles will be listed in the online in the online registration portal. Please purchase your own book copy. Registration: visit City of Anna website, https://annatexas.gov Cost: Free
JANUARY 9TH
Anna Municipal Complex, 120 W. 7th St. Anna, TX 75409 | 9:00 AM
Located in Frisco, tours will give a chance to experience the place where the Dallas Cowboys train and work 355 days of the year. Meet at the Anna Municipal Complex (120 W. 7th St.), Anna, TX 75409 Registration Required, visit City of Anna website, https://annatexas.gov Cost: $33
JANUARY 11TH
Meet Our Local Heroes
Anna Central Fire Station, 305 S. Powell Pkwy Anna, TX 75409 | 10:00 AM
Meet your Anna firefighters at the Central Fire Station. Learn about fire safety and see the trucks! Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times during the program. Free, Registration Required, visit City of Anna website https://annatexas.gov
JANUARY 16TH
Coffee & Connections, Anna Chamber of Commerce
Grace Place 505 N. Powell Pkwy Anna, TX | 7:45 AM
Join us on the first Thursday of every month for complimentary coffee and connections! All Greater Anna Chamber members are welcome to attend. Guests can join for up to 2 networking events prior to becoming a member. Remember to bring your business cards, $1 and a 30 second elevator speech! Someone will walk away with half the money collected.
JANUARY 17TH
Fri-Yay Drop-in Craft: Snow Globes
Anna Municipal Complex, 120 W. 7th St. Anna, TX 75409 | 2:30 PM
Create your own snow globe with us! While supplies last. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Free
Attention all parents and parents-to-be! Elevate your family’s health with our specialized Prenatal and Pediatric Chiropractic Care, centered on optimizing the nervous system! Harnessing state-of-the-art scanning technology, we pinpoint the root cause of health challenges, providing targeted solutions for long-lasting wellness. Don’t settle for temporary fixes – ignite true vitality with Spark Life Chiropractic! Experience the transformative benefits for yourself and your little ones.
As you set your sights on new achievements this yea r, make sure your protection grows with your goals. At The Heatherly Agency , we understand that your lifestyle is more than a collection of milestones--it’s a legacy worth prote cting. From custom coverage for your dream home to safeguarding your vehicles, travel plans, a nd everything in between, we’re here to ensure you have the confidence to thrive in 2025 an d beyond.
With Allstate , you don’t just insure your possessions--you inves t in peace of mind. Start the year with a personalized plan designed to secure wh at matters most to you and your family. Call us today to explore coverage options that fit your life.
Let’s make 2025 your most confident year yet!