Belle Meade Lifestyle’s Q&A
with Southern Oak Wealth
Are you a fiduciary, and what does that mean?
Yes, we are. As fiduciaries, we are legally and ethically obligated to act in the best interests of our clients at all times. This responsibility includes prioritizing our clients’ needs above our own, avoiding conflicts of interest, maintaining transparency, conducting thorough analysis and due diligence to provide well-informed advice, and adhering to the highest standards of professional conduct.
What are some common mistakes investors make?
Several common mistakes come to mind. One is concentrating investments in a limited number of stocks or a single sector, which can lead to significant volatility and drastic fluctuations in portfolio value. Another mistake is being overly reactive rather than proactive. While it is impossible to time the market perfectly, having a well-structured financial plan with strategic approaches can help investors capitalize on opportunities as they arise and remain well-positioned for necessary adjustments. Additionally, paying excessive attention to sensationalized news—whether positive or negative—can be detrimental, as such headlines are often designed to attract viewership or clicks rather than provide objective financial insight.
There is never a shortage of news about the markets or the economy. How do you determine what is important to focus on and what to disregard?
Determining what information is relevant is an ongoing process that requires continuous learning and adaptation while remaining grounded in sound judgment. Having a knowledgeable and experienced team to consult with is also essential for analyzing financial developments and making well-informed decisions.
What services does Southern Oak Wealth provide?
Southern Oak Wealth assists families and business owners in developing both short- and long-term financial plans tailored to their specific goals. We actively manage and monitor our clients’ investments, maintaining regular communication to ensure that any changes in their financial situation or life circumstances are appropriately addressed. Our mission is to serve as a trusted resource for all financial discussions our clients may need to have, extending this support to future generations as well.
From the Publisher: The Art of Investing in Yourself
In a world that moves at an unrelenting pace, true luxury isn’t just about what we own—it’s about what we cultivate. At Belle Meade Lifestyle, we believe that the most meaningful investments aren’t in stocks or real estate, but in the things that enrich our lives from the inside out: our time, our mental well-being, and the care we give to ourselves.
Time is the ultimate currency, and how we spend it shapes the quality of our lives. Whether it’s an afternoon lost in a good book, an unplugged weekend escape, or the simple joy of a slow morning, intentional moments are the true markers of success.
Equally important is the investment in our mental health. In a city as vibrant as Nashville, where ambition runs high and schedules are full, finding balance is essential. Prioritizing rest, mindfulness, and meaningful connections isn’t indulgence—it’s necessity.
And of course, self-care is a reflection of self-respect. Investing in your skin isn’t vanity; it’s a ritual, a commitment to feeling your best every day. From cutting-edge treatments to time-honored routines, glowing skin is the ultimate confidence boost.
I like to believe the idea that luxury isn’t just something you acquire—it’s something you embody. Here’s to making the smartest investment of all: yourself.
Warmly,
JENNIFER KAUFMAN, PUBLISHER
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Jennifer Kaufman | jennifer.kaufman@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Kit Garrott
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Stephanie Krejci | Stephanie.Krejci@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sue Baldani, Jennifer Kaufman
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: Runway Show by artists Laura Citron and Any Old Iron.
Photography by Lauren Smith-Reed of Citrus Collective Co. | Instagram: @citruscollectiveco
CHORD Real Estate expands International Real Estate Services
CHORD Real Estate announces the expansion of their International Real Estate Services. In addition to assisting foreign nationals with Nashville properties, they now help local clients diversify portfolios internationally & purchase abroad. Join CHORD Real Estate in Panama 5/29-6/1 to meet their trusted team of agents, attorneys & property managers, explore investment options, & tour Panama City’s vibrant neighborhoods. Secure your spot & experience global real estate with your trusted local team! RSVP@ CHORDrealestate.com
A RITE of Spring
ENJOY A DAY OF RACING AND MORE WHILE MAKING UNFORGETTABLE MEMORIES
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Known as Nashville’s “Rite of Spring,” the Iroquois Steeplechase, sponsored by Bank of America, is a beloved tradition that started back in 1941 when the first race was held. It’s named after the 19th-century horse Iroquois owned by Pierre Lorillard, the first American-bred horse to win the Epsom Derby (1881), the preeminent race in England.
The mission of the Iroquois Steeplechase, to be held on May 10th this year at the scenic Percy Warner Park, is to manage and produce an annual world-class horse race. That mission has been successful year after year as it continues to be a cornerstone of Nashville's social calendar, drawing over 25,000 spectators annually. While the majority of participants come from Middle Tennessee, this iconic event also attracts people from all over the United States and from around the world.
"We're thrilled to celebrate the 84th anniversary of the Iroquois Steeplechase and expect another incredible turnout," said Dwight Hall, Chairman of the Iroquois Steeplechase Race Committee (and 1977 winner). "The excitement of Bruton Street-US’s Snap Decision victory last year has continued to energize our fans, and we're ready for another fun day filled with horse racing, food, fashion, and music. With limited tickets available, we encourage fans to purchase tickets early."
Group and individual tickets for the race are available, and people of all ages come out to celebrate and not only view the race itself but to also take part in the myriad of activities that encompass the day.
For 2025, each ticket grants access to vendor shops, food trucks, tailgating areas, and the lively Steeplechase Central, which allows fans to fully immerse themselves in a day of racing and entertainment. It’s the perfect event for making memories with friends and family.
Horse racing is a popular international event, and the Iroquois Steeplechase is the only one in Nashville. The event features several horse races of varying distances on grass courses leading up to the featured three-mile hurdle stakes Iroquois with a $250,000 purse.
Just like with other sporting events, tailgating is a great way to start the day. It’s an opportunity to gather with otherswhether that’s a large group of family and friends or a smaller, more intimate gathering. Kids aged 12 and under are free in all tailgating areas, and there are even designated areas for families with young children. For example, while the Centerfield location tends to have a livelier, college-aged crowd, couples with young children may prefer other tailgating areas for a more family-friendly experience.
Other options include the Midfield Tailgating that is close to the action, or the Stirrup Club which allows premier track views. RVs are also welcome additions in designated spots, and private tents are available as well. These various tailgating choices allow attendees to customize the race day experience. But regardless of the one chosen, each provides access to the best of race day.
This year, the Hall of Fame Inductee will be Bruton Street US, which has won the grade one Calvin Houghland Iroquois five times in the past years. In an exciting finish to the Calvin Houghland Iroquois Steeplechase Grade 1 Stakes Race, Bruton Street-US' amazing 10-year-old, Snap Decision, clinched his third win at this race! The horse made history as only the second one to win the Calvin Houghland Iroquois this many times.
Many horses return year after year, and it’s believed that Snap Decision, who has more than $1 million in career earnings, will return to give others a run for their money. Speaking of money, the Iroquois Steeplechase isn’t just all about fun. The race has a huge philanthropic purpose too, with a legacy of giving back to the local community.
Sponsored this year by Bank of America, it’s run by the Volunteer State Horsemen's Foundation, a nonprofit 501c3 organization, which has proudly raised over $11 million for the Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt. Additional beneficiaries include The Foundation for the Horse, with a mission to improve the health and welfare of horses, and Friends of Warner Parks that focuses on the preservation of the Percy Warner Park grounds. All improvements to the Iroquois Steeplechase grounds are paid for by the Foundation from race proceeds and provides year-round benefits and enhancements for the Equestrian Center at the park.
Building on last year's success, the Iroquois Steeplechase promises even more excitement this year. The usual perfect weather and vibrant social atmosphere provide an amazing and enhanced race day experience.
To learn more and to buy tickets, visit their website.
IroquoisSteeplechase.org
Each year, 25,000 people gather at the Iroquois Steeplechase racecourse at Percy Warner Park for an unforgettable day of thrilling horse racing, vibrant celebrations, and stunning fashion. Purchase your tickets now and join us on May 10, 2025 in the Royal 615 Lounge, Hunt Club or Tailgating areas!
WHERE FASHION, STYLE AND EXCITEMENT MEET.
SUPERLATIVE style
The Crestmoor at Green Hills will exemplify sophisticated, rental retirement living in our vibrant city. Surrounded by the heritage neighborhoods of Green Hills, Belle Meade, Forest Hills and Hillwood – its impeccable finishes, Aspenwood service detail, dining and resort style living make it a premier address in Nashville. Impressive, spacious residential floor plans, floor to ceiling windows, expansive terraces allow a new level of indooroutdoor living. Spaces designed for entertaining, fitness, relaxation and a dedicated team provide a secure, lock and leave lifestyle for members.
Opening Spring 2025
JESS COALE AT CORTINA
Though Jess Coale’s official title is Esthetician, this multipotentialite brings a plethora of skill sets to Cortina, enhancing each client’s unique skincare experience.
Cortina Dermatology and Aesthetics of Nashville officially opened a beautiful facility in February. There, the state-of-the-art technology offered for advanced skincare treatment is administered by a staff of highly qualified individuals specializing in dermatology. Among the accomplished team members is Jess Coale, who moved to Nashville from Ohio in October of last year.
Jess developed an interest in makeup at the age of 12—much like many tweens—but her curiosity deepened when she came across a quote in a magazine article that read, “You’re only as good as your canvas.” This statement had a profound effect on how Jess viewed skincare.
After training in cosmetology and esthetics at Creative Images in Dayton, Ohio, Jess gained a decade of hands-on experience working with a local plastic surgeon and at Woodhouse Spa.
A couple of years ago, Jess faced difficult personal circumstances that left her not feeling like herself. Realizing that life-altering changes were necessary for her well-being, she turned to affirmations, spiritual alternatives, meditation, sound therapy, and positive self-talk.
With her altruistic and unbreakable spirit, Jess has helped others around her heal. She once considered journaling her experiences in a book but ultimately decided that a podcast would reach more people, more quickly.
Set to launch soon, “Soul Rocker Podcast” will serve as a platform for Jess to share, “This is my personal journey, and these are the things that I learned—whether worldly, political, or about healing from my own trauma.”
Among her many interests and creative pursuits, Jess recently began hosting weekly “Green Room” sessions on Instagram to discuss mental wellness.
Her website, RocknRoll Facialist , was established in 2022. In addition to her esthetic services, Jess integrates her passions into her work.
Her love of rock music has connected her skills as an esthetician and makeup artist to the industry. “I provide skincare services for traveling bands on a volunteer basis. In trade, I attend shows, meet amazing people, and network at a level I never imagined,” she shares. Jess also enjoys photography, capturing images of the musicians she works with.
As an esthetician, Jess specializes in somatic therapy, focusing on releasing physical and emotional tension stored in the body. She reveals that her appointments occasionally evolve into therapy sessions, where clients release trauma and sometimes cry on the table. She adds, “I care about the mental state of my clients. I’m proud to provide a safe space.”
“I CARE ABOUT THE MENTAL STATE OF MY CLIENTS. I’M PROUD TO PROVIDE A SAFE SPACE.”
Jess explains that her work can have a ripple effect—helping just one client on her table may improve that person’s mood because they took the time to care for themselves and invest in good skincare. That positive change then radiates to those around them. She continues, “I take it as a badge of honor to be a light source for some.”
Cortina embraces a relaxation and holistic approach to sculpting facials while continuing to use state-of-the-art technology.
The new facility promotes comprehensive skin health, offering products and services like Nutrafol for hair growth, ashwagandha, and other herbs to support a healthy gut microbiome.
Equipped to meet the needs of a wide range of clients, some of their most popular services include Softwave and Clear + Brilliant laser treatments. They also offer GentleMax—a leader in laser hair removal—Bella MD facials, microneedling, chemical peels, and more.
Visit Cortina for more information on services or to book an appointment with Jess Coale
Voted Top 3 Best New Workouts in Nashville by Modern Luxury
Health, Skin & Beauty
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HOW BITS & BOBS NASHVILLE'S SERVICES CAN OPTIMIZE YOUR TIME
Maximizing Productivity
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER KAUFMAN
Laura & Elizabeth
“In a world where time is often the most precious commodity, we offer a lifeline to those striving to manage their personal and professional commitments.”
In the heart of Nashville, a city celebrated for its music and culture, bits & bobs nashville stands out as a testament to community and organization. Founded in 2018 by Laura Dale and Elizabeth Moore, this venture has transformed the way Nashvillians manage their daily lives.
As busy moms with five children between them, Laura and Elizabeth deeply understood the challenges of juggling multiple responsibilities. They saw a common need among their peers—an extra set of hands to handle the daily tasks that often overwhelm individuals and families. From this realization, bits & bobs nashville was born, dedicated to bringing efficiency and order to everyday life.
The name “bits & bobs” comes from an old English phrase meaning “odds and ends,” perfectly encapsulating the company’s mission. Their services cover a broad spectrum, from personal assistance to business support.
SMALL BUSINESS SUPPORT
One of their standout offerings is virtual assistant services tailored for small businesses. Not every enterprise needs full-time administrative staff, so Laura and Elizabeth provide flexible solutions, including email marketing, database management, and client outreach. Businesses can use these services regularly or on a project basis, allowing for efficient operations without added overhead costs.
PERSONAL & HOME ASSISTANCE
Beyond business support, bits & bobs nashville offers practical help with personal and
household tasks. Whether it's running errands, organizing a home, or managing to-do lists, their services ease daily stress and enhance quality of life. Their personalized approach ensures that each client gets exactly the help they need.
CURATED & CORPORATE GIFTS
Expanding beyond services, bits & bobs nashville has also launched an online shop featuring thoughtfully curated gifts. They handpick items they use and love, often partnering with small businesses to offer clean, simple, and fun products. They also create custom corporate and branded gifts , helping companies elevate their client and employee appreciation efforts.
A COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY
The success of bits & bobs nashville stems from Laura and Elizabeth’s dedication to their clients and community. Their reputation for reliability, attention to detail, and a personalized touch has made them a trusted resource for individuals and businesses alike. Their transition from multitasking mothers to entrepreneurs has not only filled a niche but also inspired others to seek balance and organization.
In a world where time is a precious commodity, bits & bobs nashville provides a lifeline for those balancing personal and professional commitments. Whether you're a busy parent needing help with errands, a business owner seeking administrative support, or simply looking to bring more order to your life, bits & bobs nashville is ready to lend a hand—combining efficiency, community, and Southern charm.
TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH EMOTIONAL WELLNESS
A CONVERSATION WITH MILES ADCOX: WHY INVESTING IN YOUR MIND MATTERS
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER KAUFMAN
Miles Adcox is a visionary leader, speaker, author, and entrepreneur with influence, businesses, and philanthropic activities spanning several industries, including wellness, hospitality, behavioral health, real estate, and entertainment. He is the Chairman and Proprietor of Onsite Wellness Group, a globally renowned brand offering self-development and personal growth workshops, leadership retreats, digital master classes, and residential mental wellness care.
Photo by: Theron Humphrey
Onsite operates campuses in Tennessee and California, serving clients from around the globe with mobile and in-person experiences. Miles has dedicated his career to helping people unlock their fullest potential. He has helped redefine the intersection of mental wellness, leadership, and performance coaching, making wellness more attractive to individuals, artists, athletes, teams, and organizations.
Miles' work at Onsite has been featured on 20/20, Good Morning America, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Dr. Phil Show, The Doctors, People, Billboard, Marie Claire, Howard Stern Show, and more. He is the founder of Human School, Onsite Entertainment, Milestones at Onsite, The Oaks, and the Okay Project with Jelly Roll. He serves on several non-profit boards and the Behavioral Health Advisory Council for Metro Nashville. He is an avid outdoorsman and equestrian and a passionate supporter of sports and the arts. Miles is a proud husband and father who lives on a regenerative ranch just outside Nashville, Tennessee, with his wife and children.
Q: DO YOU BELIEVE INVESTING IN MENTAL HEALTH IS JUST AS IMPORTANT AS PHYSICAL HEALTH?
A: Investing in your mental health isn't just important—its essential. We often prioritize physical health, dedicating time to exercise, nutrition, and regular medical check-ups. Yet, it's common to overlook the foundation that supports it all—our mental and emotional well-being. The truth is that our minds and bodies are deeply connected. Stress, anxiety, and unresolved traumas manifest physically, just as poor physical health can impact our mental state. True wellness comes from
“True wellness comes from nurturing the body and the mind with care and intention.”
nurturing the body and the mind with care and intention. Just like we train our bodies, we can train our minds to be stronger, adaptable, and more at peace. Coaching, therapy, self-reflection, connection, and mindfulness aren't luxuries—they're tools for living well. One of the best investments we can make is to optimize our mental wellness journey.
—MILES ADCOX
Photo by: Emily Magers
Q: MANY PEOPLE VIEW MENTAL HEALTH CARE AS A LUXURY RATHER THAN A NECESSITY. HOW DO YOU SHIFT THAT MINDSET?
A: I've been in this space long enough to see a big shift in how we talk about mental health. It used to be something people avoided or only turned to in crisis. Now, more people are seeking healing and preventative tools to better manage their stress and emotional well-being and optimize their relationships. Mental health isn't a luxury; it's the foundation for how we show up in life. Our relationships, work, and ability to handle stress depend on our emotional state. We don't wait for a heart attack to start caring for our physical health, so why wait for a breaking point to take care of our mental health? Self-reflection, Deep connections, Therapy, Coaching, and overall growth and healing aren't just about getting through tough times; they're about building resilience and finding a deep sense of purpose and well-being. When we start treating mental wellness as a daily practice, we create a culture where taking care of our minds is just as normal—and necessary—as taking care of our bodies.
Q: WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST LONGTERM BENEFITS OF PRIORITIZING
EMOTIONAL WELLNESS?
A: When we consistently invest in our mental and emotional health, we build resilience— the ability to navigate life's challenges with greater stability and adaptability. Emotional wellness strengthens our nervous system, reduces chronic stress, and lowers the risk of anxiety and depression. Research shows individuals who actively engage in therapy or mindfulness practices experience improved cognitive function, better emotional
regulation, and stronger interpersonal relationships. Over time, this leads to healthier communication patterns, increased self-compassion, and the ability to set and maintain boundaries, all of which contribute to a more fulfilling and balanced life. Beyond the personal benefits, prioritizing emotional wellness also creates a ripple effect in our relationships and communities—which, to me, is one of the most powerful things that could come out of it.
Q: HOW HAVE YOU SEEN EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AND MENTAL WELLNESS IMPACT PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL SUCCESS?
A: Emotional intelligence and mental wellness shape both our personal and professional lives. When we're in tune with our emotions and self-awareness, we handle challenges better, build stronger relationships, and lead with more empathy. Taking care of our mental health helps us stay balanced and fully present—not just for ourselves but for the people around us. It's all connected—when we prioritize emotional well-being, we don't just perform better at work; we show up more fully in life. In my own journey, emotional awareness has made me a better leader, teammate, friend, and, most importantly, dad. Kids watch how we respond to stress, setbacks, and challenging moments, and that's where they learn emotional intelligence. I wish I had these tools when I was younger, so now, I do my best to model them at home. No one handles every moment perfectly—we all react in ways we wish we could take back. But the more we invest in our own growth, the more we can pour that wisdom into the people around us.
Photo by: Theron Humphrey
Q: CAN YOU SHARE A REAL-LIFE EXAMPLE WHERE INVESTING IN THE EXPERIENCE AT ONSITE COMPLETELY TRANSFORMED SOMEONE'S LIFE?
A: We see it happen every day here at Onsite, and that's the beauty of what we do. It is incredible to see someone feeling confused, lost, or overwhelmed and then get the gift of witnessing their transformation. The shifts are often profound, but they're rarely easy. It takes courage to face the things we've been avoiding, and it takes real vulnerability to open up in ways that challenge us. But when people do, they begin to experience something hard to put into words. The beauty of Onsite is that it's not just about fixing what's broken—it's about creating a space where people can finally reconnect with themselves and others. If willing and ready people don't just leave our experiences with new coping tools—they leave with a new sense of clarity, purpose, and strength. I've seen people rediscover
their ability to like who they are, rekindle relationships they thought were beyond repair, and finally break free from cycles of shame, fear, and self-doubt. And that transformation isn't just for the individual—it impacts everyone around them. The ripple effect of change, of someone choosing to invest in their overall well-being, is powerful. It changes families, workplaces, and communities. And our hope is that eventually, it will change the world. That's what makes this work so meaningful. It's not just about the individual experience—it's about the collective change that happens when we all show up with a spirit of humility and an eagerness to improve who we are and how it impacts those around us. Every day, we witness that kind of change, and it never gets old.
Photo by: Theron Humphrey
Photo by: Theron Humphrey
“You don’t have to do it alone, and you don’t have to have it all figured out right now.”
—MILES ADCOX
Q: WHAT ARE THE KEY SIGNS THAT SOMEONE NEEDS TO START INVESTING MORE IN THEIR EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING?
A: One of the biggest things we see is burnout— feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or disconnected from things that used to bring you joy. That's often your mind and body telling you it's time to slow down and check-in. Another is relationship struggles—miscommunication, feeling distant from loved ones, or constant conflict. Our emotional health directly impacts how we connect with others, so when relationships start feeling off, it's worth looking inward. And then there's that feeling of being stuck—lacking motivation, doubting yourself, or struggling to find excitement about the future. If any of this sounds familiar, it's not a sign of failure—it's an invitation to clean up the challenging parts of your past and take care of yourself in the future.
Q: WHAT'S ONE INVESTMENT YOU'VE MADE IN YOUR MENTAL HEALTH THAT HAS HAD THE GREATEST IMPACT?
A: Early on in my journey, I realized that mental health isn't something you quote "fix" once and for all; rather, it's a continual practice. Therapy, coaching, and mentorship have all been a game-changer for me, helping me process current stressors, heal from past experiences, and show up better in every area of my life. But just as important as therapy is making space for self-reflection. That looks like early mornings on horseback or walking around Onsite's campus—moments where I can slow down,
Photo by: Theron Humphrey
clear my mind, and check in with myself. There was a time when I pushed through complex emotions or put my mental health on the back burner for the sake of productivity. But when I started making it a non-negotiable, everything changed—my relationships, my work, my sense of fulfillment. The key isn't perfection; it's consistency. Mental wellness isn't a quick fix—it's about creating habits that support you for the long haul. Investing in my mental health is why I'm here today, doing what I love so others may optimize their lives. I didn't arrive here by accident.
Q: IF SOMEONE IS SKEPTICAL ABOUT THERAPY OR PERSONAL GROWTH WORK, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO ENCOURAGE THEM TO GIVE IT A TRY?
A: I get why someone might be skeptical about therapy or personal growth work—it can feel like a big step, especially if it's new to you. But here's the thing: it's not about fixing something broken. It's about giving yourself the space and tools to grow into the most authentic, fulfilled version of yourself. It's not about having all the answers; it's about learning to ask the right questions, become curious about your thoughts and behaviors, and create a deeper connection with who you are. Sometimes, the biggest breakthroughs come from simply having a safe space to reflect and gain a new perspective. At Onsite, that's all we aim to do—help you process what you're holding onto, gain clarity, and let go of what's no longer serving you.
Q: WHAT'S ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU'D GIVE TO SOMEONE STRUGGLING BUT HESITANT TO TAKE THAT FIRST STEP TOWARD MENTAL WELLNESS?
A: You don't have to do it alone, and you don't have to have it all figured out right now. The hardest part is often simply acknowledging that something needs to change, and that's the beginning of healing. I know how intimidating it can be to face what's been buried for so long but taking that first step is one of the best decisions you'll ever make. I took that step myself, and it changed my life for the better. I am no longer a victim of any of my past or present circumstances; that alone is where freedom starts. Pursuing a better version of yourself and optimizing your relationships is not what's wrong with you; it's what is right with you. It's not something anyone needs but rather something everyone deserves. It' s not something you need; it's something you deserve. You're worth it; your well-being matters.
Photo by: Emily Magers
This data is a sampling of sold properties from February 2025 in and around Belle Meade.
INVEST IN YOUR GREENS
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
JANIE JONES
Boost your health by adding a generous serving of fresh greens to your daily diet. While both cooked and raw vegetables offer health benefits, consuming them raw often provides the most nutrients. Raw greens are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, helping to lower inflammation and reduce the risk of disease.
DANDELION GREENS:
Dandelion greens are a nutritious and easy addition to any meal, perfect for salads or cooked dishes. They are rich in vitamins A, C, K, chlorophyll, and fiber, making them a great choice for digestion and overall health. Their light flavor and texture enhance salads and sandwiches.
BROCCOLI:
Broccoli is often hailed as a nutritional powerhouse, packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Known for being high in vitamins A, C, and K, it also contains important minerals like potassium, iron, and calcium. In addition, it’s a rich source of beta-carotene, flavonoids, and fiber. Whether raw or cooked, broccoli is an excellent choice for immune system support, making it one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available.
BRUSSELS SPROUTS:
Brussels sprouts are a highly nutritious cruciferous vegetable, known for their vitamin C, K, and folate content, as well as carotenoids and fiber. These vegetables can be shaved, sliced, sautéed, boiled, or grilled, offering a range of flavors from mild to bitter, depending on preparation.
KALE:
Kale is loaded with essential nutrients such as vitamins C, B6, E, K, and manganese. It contains twice as much selenium as spinach and is an excellent source of calcium. Kale’s unique properties help bind to cholesterol and lower oxalate levels, which promotes calcium absorption and makes it suitable for those prone to kidney stones. Additionally, it provides eye health benefits, thanks to lutein, and its disease-fighting properties make it a great addition to salads, smoothies, and more.
ARTICHOKES:
Artichokes are not only delicious but also packed with fiber, which aids in digestion. They are a great source of plant protein, potassium, and antioxidants like polyphenols. Artichokes also provide essential nutrients, including vitamins C, K, folate, magnesium, and B vitamins.
ASPARAGUS:
Asparagus is versatile and can be enjoyed grilled, sautéed, baked, or even raw. Packed with vitamins C, E, B, K, folate, and copper, it’s a great source of fiber. It also helps lower cholesterol and provides a variety of antioxidants that aid in healing. Asparagus is a perfect side dish that complements both light and robustly flavored meals.
SPINACH:
Spinach is a popular green known for its mild flavor and impressive nutritional profile. Rich in vitamins A, C, K, as well as magnesium, potassium, and iron, spinach is great for overall health. It also provides antioxidants that support eye health and includes calcium for stronger bones. However, because spinach has a higher oxalate content, it should be consumed in moderation by those with a history of kidney stones.
May 1-31 2025
You can be a champion for children experiencing homelessness
Race4EveryKid is a virtual movement challenge to raise funds to provide shoes to kids experiencing homelessness. Whether you decide to walk, run, cycle, swim or hop, skip and jump, every dollar you raise will provide joy and dignity to kids across the US. Join today!
Her mitage Kitchen Gallery
