Letter from the Editor
As we step into a fresh year, there’s no better time to focus on health, wellness, and the simple joys that bring balance to our lives. This month, we’ve curated a collection of articles to inspire healthy habits, cultivate mindfulness, and celebrate the small steps that lead to big changes.
Rachel Mellick, PA-C of Welcome Health, shares her expertise in Self-Care in the New Year: Why Regular Check-Ups Are Important for Your Health. From building trust with your provider to identifying potential health concerns early, Rachel highlights why investing in your health now pays dividends for the future.
Speaking of traditions, Chef Bill Coxwell of Sweet Azalea brings us a recipe for Southwestern Cornbread—a flavorful twist on a classic New Year’s dish. It’s perfect for starting the year with comfort and a nod to good fortune.
We’re also exploring The Art of Gratitude, where you’ll learn practical tips for mindfulness and even how to create your own DIY gratitude journal. It’s a wonderful way to reflect on the blessings around you and find positivity in each day.
For families, our Healthy Habits for Kids article emphasizes the importance of starting wellness practices early. From staying active to making routines fun, these habits lay the foundation for a lifetime of health and happiness.
Here’s to a New Year filled with wellness, gratitude, and meaningful moments. Let’s embrace this opportunity to prioritize ourselves and those we love.
BAILEY HALL, EDITOR @CITYLIFESTYLEAUGUSTA
January 2025
PUBLISHER
Jana Morris | jana.morris@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Bailey Hall | bailey.hall@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Michelle Parnell | michelle.parnell@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
Daniel Morris
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Bailey Hall, Emily Foster Interiors
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Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: Everyone had a great time at the 2024 Buddy Walk hosted by Upside of Downs.
CSCM Furniture & Decor Has Moved
CSCM Furniture & Decor is now located at 211 Bobby Jones Expressway alongside Mattress by Appointment Augusta. Stop by and find high-quality American handcrafted furniture designed just for you and explore their wide selection of stylish home décor. Visit CSCMFurniture.com for more details!
3rd Annual Kickball for a Cause
Mark your calendars! Prepare For Babies’ 3rd Annual Kickball for a Cause is coming February 22nd. Registration opens in January, so start gathering your team! Prepare For Babies is a local nonprofit organization that supports pregnant women in crisis, helping them build abundant lives rooted in Jesus Christ. Don’t miss this fun-filled day for an incredible cause. Visit their website, PrepareForBabies.org , or follow them on Facebook for updates!
Augusta Symphony Gala 2025
Grab your gowns and cufflinks for a night at the opera! From Rossini to Puccini, your favorite librettos will be presented by acclaimed performers, featuring your Augusta Symphony, at the historic Miller Theater. The black-tie affair begins at 6:30pm with champagne, cocktails, and hors d’oeuvres. Head to your seats for the 7:30pm performance, conducted by Maestro Dirk Meyer. To purchase tickets, visit AugustaSymphony.com
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL
Hear Why Regular Check Ups are Important for Your Health from Rachel Mellick, PA-C of Welcome Health
the New Year Self-Care in
HOW DO REGULAR CHECK-UPS AFFECT OVERALL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING?
"Regular wellness checks are an important part of health and well-being. They provide a comprehensive physical exam, track treatment progress, screen for diseases, and allow for necessary referrals, such as mammograms or colonoscopies. These visits also measure health metrics like blood pressure, BMI, and pulmonary function. Just as importantly, they help establish trust between the patient and provider, making it easier to address sensitive topics like mental health or proactive lifestyle changes."
HOW DOES THE SUBSCRIPTION MODEL AT WELCOME HEALTH MAKE IT EASIER FOR PEOPLE TO PRIORITIZE THEIR HEALTH THROUGHOUT THE YEAR?
"Our Direct Primary Care model at Welcome Health is designed for accessibility. New patients don’t have to wait months to become established with their primary care provider, and established patients benefit from quick communication, sick visits, telemedicine, and routine follow-ups. With a relatively low monthly membership, patients aren’t charged per visit, allowing timely follow-ups without additional costs. I love being able to start my patients on a new treatment plan or medication, and then following up with them in the office or by telemedicine. This means I can check in on treatment plans or make medication adjustments within weeks rather than waiting six months to a year. Patients are never 'penalized' for seeking care, which encourages proactive health management."
WHAT ARE SOME COMMON HEALTH CONCERNS OR CONDITIONS THAT PEOPLE TEND TO OVERLOOK, BUT SHOULD GET CHECKED REGULARLY?
"Prediabetes, hypertension, and obesity are often overlooked. Many with prediabetic markers can prevent diabetes with straightforward lifestyle changes. Hypertension, the 'silent killer,' can cause severe
complications like kidney disease, heart problems, and strokes if left untreated. Obesity increases risks for cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and joint issues. Regular screenings can catch these conditions early, allowing for intervention and better outcomes."
HOW CAN A SIMPLE CHECK-UP HELP PEOPLE STAY ON TRACK WITH THEIR HEALTH GOALS FOR THE NEW YEAR?
"A check-up establishes a baseline for your overall health and opens discussions about lab tests, screenings, and habits like quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, eating more nutritiously, or incorporating movement into your daily routine. These conversations set the tone for achieving health goals in the New Year."
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“OUR DIRECT PRIMARY CARE MODEL AT WELCOME HEALTH IS DESIGNED FOR ACCESSIBILITY. NEW PATIENTS DON’T HAVE TO WAIT MONTHS TO BECOME ESTABLISHED WITH THEIR PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER, AND ESTABLISHED PATIENTS BENEFIT FROM QUICK COMMUNICATION, SICK VISITS, TELEMEDICINE, AND ROUTINE FOLLOW-UPS.”
HOW DOES WELCOME HEALTH SUPPORT PATIENTS WITH THEIR MENTAL WELLNESS AS PART OF OVERALL HEALTHCARE?
"Primary care plays a large role in mental wellness. We’re often the first to screen for and diagnose conditions like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. Whether starting medication, recommending counseling, or providing referrals, having a relationship and following up with a primary care provider is essential for long-term success. The past few years have been especially stressful, with economic and political changes, COVID-19, and the increasing daily pressures of work and family. These challenges often exacerbate chronic stress, depression, and anxiety, making consistent care and support even more critical."
WHAT SELF-CARE PRACTICES DO YOU RECOMMEND THAT COMPLEMENT REGULAR CHECK-UPS AND CONTRIBUTE TO LONG-TERM HEALTH?
"Self-care doesn’t have to be a trip to the spa or a vacation. It can be as simple as quality sleep, exercise or regular movement, a nutritious diet, and connecting with loved ones. Hobbies, worship services, or practicing gratitude are also valuable. To me, incorporating something that you enjoy into your routine is the best form of self care.”
HOW HAS THE APP AND VIRTUAL CONSULTATIONS HELPED PEOPLE MAINTAIN CONSISTENT HEALTHCARE, ESPECIALLY DURING BUSY TIMES?
"Our Spruce app, which enables secure messaging, phone calls, telemedicine visits, and online surveys, has been incredibly useful to both our patients and providers. Patients can manage minor illnesses or medication adjustments without needing to visit in
person, whether from home or during a work break. This convenience helps maintain consistent care and adherence to health goals, even with busy schedules."
WHAT ARE SOME SMALL HEALTH CHANGES PEOPLE CAN MAKE AT THE START OF THE YEAR THAT HAVE A BIG IMPACT ON THEIR OVERALL WELL-BEING?
"Small changes can add up. Take more steps by parking farther away or walking during lunch. Reduce screen time an hour before bed for better sleep. Swap a starchy side for fruits or greens at meals, try Meatless Mondays, or pack lunches instead of getting takeout. The key is consistency. Start with one habit and build from there. Preparation, accountability, and small rewards for progress can make these changes stick. A supportive healthcare provider can also help keep you motivated."
Welcome Health of Evans is located at 418 Town Park Blvd #1a, Evans, GA 30809. For more information, visit WelcomeHealth.net or call 706.739.5848.
THE CHEF'S TABLE WITH BILL COXWELL
A fun twist on a New Year's staple
Cornbread has long been a staple of Southern New Year’s Day traditions, symbolizing gold and prosperity for the year ahead. Chef Bill’s Southwestern Cornbread brings a flavorful twist to this beloved dish, with jalapeños for spice and cheddar for richness. It’s a delicious way to start the year off right!
SOUTHWESTERN CORNBREAD
ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups Martha White Cornmeal Mix
• 1 cup cream style corn
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup oil
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons chopped jalapenos
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup shredded cheddar
directions:
Step 1. Combine all ingredients, except the cheese.
Step 2. Pour half the mixture into a greased iron skillet or 9 x 9 pan.
Step 3. Top with cheese.
Step 4. Spread remaining batter over the top.
Step 5. Bake at 450 degrees for 30 minutes; test before removing from the oven.
Sweet Azalea Gourmet Shop & Catering is located at 2569 Central Ave.
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The Art of Gratitude
PRACTICING MINDFULNESS AND THANKFULNESS
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL
PRACTICING MINDFULNESS AND GRATITUDE
In today’s fast-paced world, mindfulness and gratitude are powerful practices that help us stay grounded and find joy in the present moment. Mindfulness is the act of focusing on the here and now, fully experiencing the world around you without judgment. Gratitude, on the other hand, is the conscious appreciation of what you have, no matter how big or small. Together, these practices can transform your outlook and enhance your mental well-being.
Practicing mindfulness can reduce stress, improve focus, and even boost physical health by lowering blood pressure and enhancing sleep. It also helps cultivate gratitude by encouraging you to notice and appreciate the small moments in life—a cozy morning coffee, a kind word from a friend, or a breathtaking sunset.
To begin incorporating mindfulness and gratitude into your daily life, start small. Spend five minutes each morning reflecting on what you’re grateful for. During moments of stress, pause to take a few deep breaths and ground yourself in the present. Over time, these simple actions can lead to a more positive and balanced mindset.
DIY GRATITUDE JOURNAL
Creating a gratitude journal is a fun and personal way to embrace mindfulness and thankfulness. Start with a blank notebook, journal, or even a binder with loose-leaf paper—anything that feels right for you. Decorate the cover with materials that inspire you, like photos, washi tape, or meaningful quotes.
Inside, include prompts to guide your reflections, such as:
• “What made me smile today?”
• “Three things I’m grateful for this week.”
• “A challenge I overcame and what I learned from it.”
Personalize your journal further by adding sections for doodles, affirmations, or a mood tracker. You might also include a space to set intentions or record acts of kindness you’ve given or received.
To use your journal effectively, aim to write in it daily or a few times a week. Set aside time when you’re relaxed and can focus. Consistency is key, but don’t stress if you miss a day—the goal is to nurture thankfulness, not perfection.
By combining creativity and reflection, a DIY gratitude journal becomes a powerful tool for cultivating mindfulness and enriching your life with positivity.
In today’s fast-paced world, mindfulness and gratitude are powerful practices that help us stay grounded and find joy in the present moment.
Healthy Habits for Kids
THE TONE FOR A LIFETIME OF W
Helping kids develop healthy habits early in life sets the stage for lifelong wellness. From staying active to making nutritious choices, children thrive when they’re engaged in fun and enriching activities. Parents and caregivers play a key role in modeling and encouraging these habits. With a little creativity, you can make health and wellness a natural part of their everyday lives.
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL
Wellness
Staying active is essential for a child’s physical and mental well-being. Encourage activities that feel more like play than exercise, such as riding bikes, jumping rope, or playing tag. These activities not only build strength and coordination but also create lasting memories of fun and movement.
Nutrition can be exciting, too! Involve kids in the kitchen by letting them help prepare meals. Choose simple, healthy recipes where they can measure, mix, and create. By participating, they’re more likely to try and enjoy nutritious foods. Transform fruits and veggies into colorful art on their plates, or create a make-yourown-taco night featuring fresh ingredients. These small steps make healthy eating a fun adventure rather than a chore.
Social Friendships and Teamwork
Building strong social skills and teamwork is key to a child’s emotional and social growth. Clubs, sports, and volunteering are excellent ways to teach cooperation, responsibility, and empathy. Team sports like soccer or basketball promote collaboration, while clubs like Scouts or art groups nurture shared interests.
Volunteering as a family can be particularly impactful—helping at a food bank or planting trees instills a sense of community and kindness. These experiences not only strengthen friendships but also teach valuable lessons about respect and working together, setting kids up for success in all aspects of life.
Routines
Creating routines doesn’t have to feel rigid or boring. Turn bedtime into a cozy ritual with a storybook countdown, or let kids pick their favorite song for brushing teeth. Morning routines can start with a “breakfast dance party” to get everyone energized. Use colorful charts or stickers to track daily habits, like packing their school bag or finishing homework, and celebrate small accomplishments with rewards such as extra playtime. Making routines enjoyable not only ensures consistency but also helps children feel involved and in control, fostering a sense of accomplishment and self-discipline.
HOW TO DESIGN A RELAXING SPACE
ARTICLE BY EMILY FOSTER INTERIORS
INVESTING IN HOME DESIGN CAN GIVE YOU A PEACEFUL SANCTUARY WHERE YOU CAN ESCAPE FROM THE STRESSES OF DAILY LIFE. SO GO AHEAD, TAKE THE PLUNGE AND REVAMP YOUR LIVING SPACES – IT’S WORTH EVERY PENNY!
There are many things that can help a room feel relaxing, but let’s keep it simple and focus on my top three. I would say that one must incorporate good lighting, great textures, and a decluttered space to truly get the cozy vibes. Let’s tackle each.
GOOD LIGHTING
It is imperative that there are multiple sources of light in a space. A room needs a soft warm light, so I always like to use a light bulb between 2,700k and 3,000k. Also, and I see this so many times, all lights should have the same temperature light bulb to avoid clashing. It’s not enough to just have recessed or pendant lighting. I always add a table or floor lamp to a space to truly have ambient light. Also, candles are a must for me. They can be scented candles (an extra way to add relaxation) or I like to use remote control tapered candles, so I don’t have to worry about cleaning up wax later.
GREAT TEXTURES
Textures are seen in toss pillows, rugs, draperies, throw blankets and furniture upholstery. Textures add color, pattern and visual interest. I like to use at least three different textures to help a room feel lived-in and welcoming.
DECLUTTERING
So many times, a person thinks that every nook and cranny and every wall need to have something, and this is not the case. A decluttered space is actually more relaxing because overcrowding of items doesn’t quiet the mind. Decluttering a space can be overwhelming, I get it, so just do it in stages. You’ll love the outcome when the room is tidy, organized and you are only surrounded with what brings you joy.
invest inyour living space
MAKE YOUR DAY DELICIOUS
JANUARY 2025
JANUARY 1ST
New Year's Day
Happy New Year from all of us at the Augusta City Lifestyle Team! We hope you have a wonderful year!
JANUARY 7TH - 8TH
Shen Yun 2025
Columbia County Performing Arts Center
Dust off your memory of a more compassionate world and experience China before communism. Shen Yun is a beautiful display of goodness, wisdom, and faith. For our world today, it is a message of hope. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit TheCenterOfCC.com.
JANUARY 9TH
2025 Business Expo
Columbia County Exhibition Center
The Columbia County Chamber is hosting the 2025 Business Expo on January 9th from 3pm to 6pm at the Columbia County Exhibition Center. This event is free to the public and will give people the chance to discover and connect with the businesses that exist in our community.
JANUARY 11TH
AugustaConPop Culture Show
Columbia County Exhibition Center
The 5th AugustaCon - Pop Culture Show will be at the Columbia County Exhibition Center on January 11th from 10am to 5pm. There will be fun for the whole family, cosplay and video game contests, and more! For more information, visit TheAugustaCon.com
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JANUARY 11TH - 12TH
CSRA Brick Con 2025
Columbia County Library
Enjoy a weekend filled with LEGO displays, LEGO movies playing all day, build areas for creative minds, LEGO vendors, food vendors and a fun-filled atmosphere for the whole family to enjoy! For more information about CSRA Brick Con 2025, visit SCBricksEvents.com.
JANUARY 31ST
Vitamin String Quartet: The Music of Taylor Swift, Bridgerton and Beyond
Columbia County Performing Arts Center
The Vitamin String Quartet will be performing The Music of Taylor Swift, Bridgerton and Beyond at the Columbia County Performing Arts Center on January 31st. To purchase tickets, visit TheCenterOfCC.com.
