A Fresh Start with Balance and Sustainability
For many of us, January brings a sense of excitement—a fresh start, new horizons to explore, and goals to pursue. Yet, for others, it can serve as a reminder of past attempts that fell short or the weight of expectations for what this year might bring.
With this issue of Daytona City Lifestyle, we took a thoughtful approach. Rather than offering quick fixes to check short-term boxes, we focused on what truly lasts. Our goal is to inspire you to pursue sustainable, realistic improvements to your physical, emotional, and mental well-being for the long haul.
In this Health & Wellness issue, we’re proud to highlight local gems like Blossom Dental in Ormond Beach, Daytona MedSpa, and Indiego Clinical Consultants in Daytona—businesses dedicated to helping you look and feel your best. And don’t miss our amazing advertisers, like Hotworx, which recently opened on ISB, whose support makes this magazine possible.
When it comes to life—whether business, finance, food, home, or personal health—it’s not what you do occasionally that makes the biggest impact. It’s what you do consistently. Small, regular habits have the power to transform your year, for better or worse.
For example, while taking a vacation every day might be unrealistic, planning one or two trips a year and incorporating regular rest into your week is achievable. Similarly, indulging in a decadent steak dinner every night may not serve your health, but enjoying it occasionally—like at Rose Villa in Ormond Beach—can be a delightful treat.
It’s all about balance. Plan for those indulgent moments AND work toward steady, positive habits. Join a fitness community or gym AND savor the dessert you’ve been eyeing. Over time, it’s the choices we make most of the time that lead to a more peaceful, fulfilling, and fabulous life.
Here’s to you and a fantastic year ahead. We’re cheering for you!
THOMAS JOHN (TJ) FILLEY , PUBLISHER @DAYTONACITYLIFESTYLE
January 2025
PUBLISHER
Thomas John (TJ) Filley tj.filley@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION MANAGER
Oksana Zingman Filley
oksana.filley@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Tiffany Joubert tiffany.joubert@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Christophe Hanckowiak christophe@christophephotography.com
Corporate Team
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 Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Samantha Tribble Lunar Studios attends the 2024 AIBP retreat for some Professional Development 2: Mrs. Grace Senior Morandi and friends eat a meal prepared by private Chef Nick DiVeccia 3: Danielle Ball, Alyssa Lang and Sarah Lamee attend Eggs and Issues 4: TJ Filley and Tiffany Joubert present Mary and Kristen Wiles with gifts at VCWWC 5: Kristen Bogle Nelson wins a prize at Pilates with Kori Kakowski's open house 6: Sheriff Chitwood speaks at the MOAS Guild meeting on how to avoid Senior fraud. 7: Carmen Ruiz passes the torch of most influential award to Michelle Tisdale
KANDI SCHROMM
LUNAR STUDIO
business monthly
Sunrise Bank
Sunrise Bank, Ormond Beach is a community-focused financial institution dedicated to providing personalized banking solutions for individuals and businesses. With a commitment to exceptional service, Sunrise Bank offers a range of products from checking and savings accounts to loans and investment options. Known for its local expertise and customer-first approach, Sunrise Bank builds strong relationships with clients, supporting their financial growth and security with innovative, tailored solutions and a deep-rooted commitment to the community.
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Inspiration for your best local life.
Exclusive giveaways.
Hidden gem alert!
Good news happening right in your neighborhood.
Local content by local creators.
Inside scoops on local businesses & events. Daytona City Lifesty L e™
ARTICLE BY SYBIL VELARDE
whirled PEAS!
Vegetable juice is a great addition to your diet especially if you want to lose weight, gain energy, and feel great. Sometimes life gets too busy and you don’t have the time to cook healthy meals. Fall in love with leafy greens, fresh fruit, nut milks, and chia seeds all combined to make a quick, easy, and delicious contribution to your day.
Veggies And Blenders Bring The Health We Need
ENERGY ELIXIR
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 beet
• 1 carrot
• 1 celery stalk
• 1-2 inches of ginger
• 1 lemon
DIRECTIONS:
Mix all together in a blender until smooth.
BLUEBERRY MINT
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
• 1 fresh or frozen banana
• 1 cup spinach
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup fresh mint and/or 1-3 drops of peppermint essential oil
• 1 cup ice if using fresh fruit
DIRECTIONS:
Mix all together in a blender until smooth.
GREEN SMOOTHIE
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 cups cucumber
• 1 cup Granny Smith apples
• 1 cup celery
• 1 handful baby spinach
• 1/3 cup fresh pineapple (for a sweet smoothie or zest and juice of a small lime for tart smoothie)
• 1 sprig parsley
DIRECTIONS:
Mix all together in a blender until smooth.
A Guide to Mental Detox
Digital Detoxing in Nature
In an age where screens fill our lives, the act of simply unplugging can feel like a deep, soothing breath. Stepping away from our devices clears the noise and allows space for inner stillness, renewing our minds and lifting our spirits. Science agrees: disconnecting reduces stress, eases anxiety, and enhances sleep, focus, and mental health. But the art of digital detox goes deeper when paired with a walk in nature, and in Daytona, we have landscapes that inspire this mindful escape.
Picture yourself wandering through Tomoka State Park, where ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss sway in the warm coastal breeze. The quiet hum of the Tomoka River winds alongside you, guiding you into a world rich with herons and shy deer peeking through the trees. It’s a landscape that invites you to be present, where each step quiets the mind.
For an almost otherworldly experience, visit Lyonia Preserve. Its sandy scrublands open up to the rare beauty of native Florida Scrub-Jays flitting through
sun-drenched branches. Here, nature has woven its own rhythm, and as you walk, the soft crunch of sand underfoot harmonizes with the wild melodies of birds overhead.
Venture further into Bulow Creek State Park, where time seems to stand still beneath the towering Fairchild Oak, a tree that has weathered centuries of sun and storm. Its gnarled branches stretch above as a testament to endurance and calm, inviting you to sit in its shade and reflect.
For a true sense of wilderness, Tiger Bay State Forest awaits with over 30,000 acres of sprawling wetlands and whispering pines. The paths here lead you deeper into solitude, offering the perfect setting for quiet contemplation.
These spaces offer the soul what technology cannot: a chance to unwind, reset, and reconnect with a quieter, truer self. In Daytona’s green sanctuaries, we’re reminded of the art of simply being present. Disconnect and rediscover the power of nature to renew the spirit.
Rainbow after Hurricane Milton Daytona Beach
Its gnarled branches stretch above as a testament to endurance...
Acient Oaks of Tomoka State Park
Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park near Daytona
The soft crunch of sand underfoot at Lyonia Preserve
Wild Bee on Purple Lyonia Flower at Lyonia Preserve
Aerial view Ormond Beach WASHINGTON OAKS GARDENS STATE PARK where river meets the sea
Fawn season is usually late spring early summer
Meets BEAUTY WELLNESS
DR. HUDA ALJONAIDY has treated over 1500 patients
provides a
comforting setting to help ease any anxiety you may have
Debunking Dentistry Myths
ARTICLE BY TIFFANY JOUBERT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTOPHE HANCKOWIAK
Blossom Dental in Ormond Beach, redefines dentistry by merging beauty and wellness under one roof. Led by the visionary Dr. Huda Aljonaidy, and her magical team of eight, Blossom Dental reveals the field of dentistry as an expansive and holistic practice, where beauty, health, and family are seamlessly woven together in a rich tapestry of color. Here, we explore five common myths about dentistry and how Blossom Dental’s transformative approach reshapes each.
Blossom
peaceful,
DR.
MYTH 1: DENTISTS JUST WORK ON TEETH
While many see dentistry as limited to teeth, Dr. Aljonaidy looks beyond the surface to treat the entire smile foundation. For patients with gum recession, she uses the innovative Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST), a minimally invasive method to gently move receding gum tissue and cover exposed roots. This approach revitalizes both aesthetics and health without cutting or stitches. To enhance healing, Blossom uses Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) therapy, which harnesses growth factors from the patient’s blood, stimulating cell regeneration, reducing inflammation, and accelerating recovery. PRF is a prime example of Dr. Aljonaidy’s commitment to holistic dentistry, where wellness begins at the cellular level.
MYTH 2: DENTISTS JUST WORK INSIDE YOUR MOUTH
Blossom Dental moves beyond oral care to embrace the artistry of facial aesthetics. Potenza RF micro-needling, one of their signature services, uses ultra-fine needles and radiofrequency to boost collagen and elastin, refreshing the skin from within to address fine lines and scars. Blossom’s expertise doesn’t end here; for those with TMJ pain, they offer Botox therapy, which eases muscle tension and alleviates jaw discomfort. Through these services, Dr. Aljonaidy provides patients with a radiance that reflects the vitality and health of their smiles.
MYTH 3: DENTISTS WORK ONLY IN THE HEAD, NOT THE BODY
“Your body is an interconnected system, not isolated parts,” Dr. Aljonaidy explains. At Blossom Dental, dentistry is a bridge between oral health and full-body wellness. Recognizing the mouth as the gateway to the body, Dr. Aljonaidy checks essential Vitamin D levels which help support strong teeth, bones, and immune function. Blossom also specializes in creating custom devices for sleep apnea, a condition affecting the entire body. These devices help open the airway and often eliminate the need for bulky CPAP machines. This whole-body approach extends to families as well. Dr. Aljonaidy insists on orientations that include the entire family, emphasizing that health and wellness thrive in supportive environments. By involving loved ones,
Belinda Trout Certified Dental Technician reviews images with the latest technology
Joline Cayton Practice Manager
Blossom Dental creates a ripple effect, fostering wellness habits that benefit the entire household.
MYTH 4: THE DENTIST’S OFFICE IS A SCARY PLACE
Stepping into Blossom Dental is like entering a welcoming home. “Most of my day is spent addressing my clients’ anxiety; drilling teeth is the easy part,” Dr. Aljonaidy reflects. Patients feel at ease with comforting touches like soft blankets, calming music, and the attentive care of Blossom’s compassionate team. Dr. Aljonaidy ensures her team remains at the top of their field, focusing on continuous education, certification, and the latest research. For complex procedures, Blossom relies on Yomi, a precision-guided robotic assistant. Yomi supports Dr. Aljonaidy with precision in each movement, allowing her to concentrate on the patient’s needs while delivering the highest standard of care.
MYTH 5: DENTISTRY ENDS WITH CHILDHOOD
Blossom Dental believes that wellness and oral health start young. Dr. Aljonaidy and her team provide gentle and comprehensive care for children, ensuring a positive experience from the start. Kids’ visits are designed to be fun, educational, and relaxed, fostering trust and good habits early on. Dr. Aljonaidy encourages family involvement and orientations to educate both parents and children, highlighting that health and wellness grow strongest within supportive family structures. By guiding the entire family in dental care, practices become habits leading to lifelong wellness.
Dentistry is often seen in black and white, but Blossom Dental paints it in vibrant colors, redefining care, beauty, and wellness in every brilliant shade. Through cutting-edge techniques, gentle care, and a deep commitment to holistic health, Blossom re-imagines dentistry with colors as rich and layered as the smiles it creates.
DR. HUDA ALJONAIDY and her daughter Razan. Dr. has 4 children and believes that family health and wellness supports periodontal health.
DR. HUDA ALJONAIDY Dentist, DDS, ABDSM and her compassiaonte team
Back to School Blues?
BOUNCING BACK AFTER SCHOOL BREAK WITH ACADEMIC OASIS
ARTICLE BY TIFFANY JOUBERT
Practice makes perfect as students use playdough to practice their shapes
After weeks of holiday fun, getting back into school mode can be tricky. But don’t worry—getting your kids back on track after the holiday break is easier than you think! Academic Oasis in Ormond Beach has the tools to help your children start the new year with confidence and enthusiasm. Here’s how to make the transition smooth and fun with four simple strategies.
ROUTINE REBOOT: REV UP FOR ROUTINE
The holidays bring late nights and lazy mornings, but it’s time to ease back into a school-friendly routine. Start by adjusting bedtime and wake-up times gradually—15 minutes earlier each night will do the trick. On the night before school, make a game out of setting out backpacks and laying out school clothes together. This small, family-oriented ritual will help your child feel excited and ready for the school day. At Academic Oasis, creating a structured and positive environment helps students feel confident. Reinforce this at home by getting back into a predictable routine. "Having a visible schedule at home, and reviewing it every morning will help prepare students to get back on track with in school schedules," says owner and Principal of Academic Oasis Jaclyn Veloce."Your kids will appreciate the rhythm when school starts again."
MOTIVATION MAGIC: SPARK THE SCHOOL SPIRIT
After all the fun of the holidays, it can be hard to get kids excited about school. To get them motivated, create a “back-toschool vision board” with pictures of their favorite subjects and goals for the year. Display it somewhere they’ll see it every day. Take the excitement further by connecting school lessons to real-world experiences. Going to the Daytona Aquarium to learn about animals and conservation can make their studies feel like an adventure. At Academic Oasis, making learning
engaging and hands-on is a priority, and bringing that same enthusiasm home will help them look forward to the year ahead. Lead teacher Hope Blanken suggests "Don't stop reading over break." "Continuing habits from school over break, whether holiday or summer, will help students.' Picking subjects that relate to family field trips will help kids to stay engaged and make them excited to get back to school learning.
CONFIDENCE KICKSTART:
CULTIVATE CONFIDENCE
It’s natural for kids to feel a little nervous about returning to school, but building their confidence is key. Try a daily affirmation routine where they repeat phrases like, “I am a great learner!” or “I am ready for the new school year!” Make it fun by turning it into a little morning ritual.
Also, discuss their goals and what they’re excited about—whether it’s a new class or reconnecting with friends. The more kids feel confident, the easier the return to school will be.
START STRONG, STAY STRONG
The new year is a fresh start, and with a few fun strategies, your kids will jump back into school with ease. By rebooting their routine, sparking motivation, boosting confidence, and fueling their bodies, you’ll set them up for a successful year. At Academic Oasis, we’re here to help your child thrive in both academics and life, making the new year a time for growth and excitement.
Academic Oasis provides a hands on engaging learning environment for students K-6
"Having a visible schedule at home, and reviewing it every morning will help prepare students to get back on track with in school schedules."
TONE + TEXTURE
STYLE YOUR HOME IN TONES AND TEXTURES WITH DESIGN HELP FROM HOUZZ INTERIOR DESIGN EXPERTS
ARTICLE BY NICOLETTE MARTIN
WOVEN + KNOTTED
LIVING BOHO-CHIC WITH WOVEN TEXTURES AND MACRAMÉ
Decorate your space with handmade textures such as the modern, maker revival of 1970s macramé and year-round tropical feel of wicker. MACRAMÉ Made through knotting instead of weaving, macramé can add a unique touch in many various ways. Houzz contributor Laura Gaskill suggests incorporating it as nursery decor, plant hangers, wall hangings and modern fiber arts. WICKER According to Houzz contributor Yanic Simard, “the best way to really embrace the luxury-cottage appeal of wicker and rattan is to combine different forms of the two in one space... Look for other unexpected places to add a natural twist to your home with a new material woven into your palette.”
AGAINST THE GRAIN
TIPS FOR DECORATING WITH NATURAL MATERIALS
Houzz contributor Katie Treggiden offers many ways to incorporate natural materials and natural-state timber into your home, including using wood to cover one wall in a home for a pleasing accent wall; featuring your firewood as a striking, stacked display; and mixing different types of wood and different finishes in the same space. “A simple way to incorporate the wood trend is to expose structural wooden beams already present in your home,” Katie says. “Instead of painting them or boxing them in, leave them raw or give them a coat of wax to enrich the tones.”
BRIGHTS + WHITES
ADDING TASTEFUL POPS OF COLOR TO YOUR WHITE ROOM
Do you feel like your all-white room is missing something? Houzz contributor Kelly Porter bets what’s missing is energy.
“The best way to add a spark to any space,” she says, “is with bright color.”
Kelly says green is one of the easiest colors to live with, looking organic even in its more vivid tones.
“When searching for the perfect bright green, think springtime—fresh green grass and newly sprouted leaves,” she says. “These greens have lively undertones that will look comfortable and warm in your white space.
Other colors Kelly recommends adding as accents are yellow, royal blue, orange, blue-purple, red-purple and sky blue.
SARA CHRISMAN Owner of Daytona MedSpa
Eyes: Wellness to Our Souls
Expert advice from Daytona Med Spa for bright, youthful eyes.
ARTICLE BY TIFFANY JOUBERT
Our eyes are the windows to our wellness, reflecting both beauty and vitality. Here are some innovative ways to rejuvenate your eyes and restore their youthful sparkle.
1. LIGHTEN UP WITH LYMPHATIC CARE
Beyond creams and cucumbers, targeted lymphatic drainage can work wonders in reducing puffiness. Gently massaging the area around your eyes can help reduce fluid buildup, easing under eye bags and dark circles.
2. BOOST YOUR UNDER-EYE WITH TARGETED NOURISHMENT
Think beyond cucumbers—under eye skin needs rich hydration and support from ingredients like peptides. “UV rays and pollution break down collagen, while expressions like squinting create fine lines,” adds Sara. “Under eye bags are often hereditary, but by nourishing the delicate skin and providing targeted care, we can minimize their appearance and restore natural radiance.”
3. CUSTOMIZED UNDER-EYE SOLUTIONS
Consultations at Daytona MedSpa help identify the best approach for each individual. Treatments range from gentle fillers to rejuvenate hollows to micro-needling for collagen boost and texture improvement. Each solution is tailored to ensure a holistic and individualized approach to under eye care.
Discover fresh, youthful eyes at Daytona MedSpa, where personalized care can transform your wellness journey.
Sara Chrisman new owner of Daytona MedSpa
Eye care is symbolic over all wellness, Daytona Medspa can help with a customized plan to ensure the best results unique to you!
smart SWEETS
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.
Nutrient-Rich Dessert To The Rescue
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
Frozen PEANUT BUTTER Bites
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.
Protein COOKIE DOUGH Bites
ARTICLE BY TIFFANY JOUBERT
“Dr. Harriott lets us know that sleep truly is the cornerstone of mental, physical, and emotional health.”
Are
you struggling with restless sleep? Here are some tips from Dr. Harriot
Restoring Rest
A Holistic Path to Wellness with Dr. Harriott
Dr. Itzel Harriott, a highly respected specialist in Daytona Beach, brings a unique and integrative approach to health, blending functional medicine, clinical counseling, and pharmacology with faith-based support. With numerous credentials and decades of experience, Dr. Harriott is dedicated to tackling complex issues. In this Q&A, she shares insights on achieving restful, restorative sleep.
Q: DR. HARRIOTT, WHY IS SLEEP SO ESSENTIAL TO OVERALL WELL-BEING?
Dr. Harriott: Sleep truly is the cornerstone of mental, physical, and emotional health. Yet, for many, getting quality, restorative sleep remains a challenge. Sleep disorders like insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome don’t just disrupt nightly rest—they impact daily functioning, affecting stress levels, mood, and even chronic health conditions.
Q: HOW DO YOU APPROACH SLEEP DISORDERS WITH FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE?
Dr. Harriott: Functional medicine allows us to look at sleep disorders as part of a larger picture. Sleep issues aren’t usually standalone; they’re often intertwined with
Dr. Harriot shares incredible insight to help your overall wellbeing.
chronic stress, mental health, poor diet, and medical conditions like diabetes. Instead of just treating symptoms, I dig into underlying causes, such as nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, or inflammation. Dietary adjustments, supplements, and lifestyle recommendations help fix underlying issues.
Q: HOW DO MENTAL HEALTH AND MEDICATION AFFECT SLEEP?
Dr. Harriott: Mental health is closely connected to sleep. Anxiety and depression are often significant contributors to insomnia, creating a vicious cycle where poor sleep worsens mental health. As a pharmacologist, I help clients understand how medications may impact sleep, supporting them in making safe adjustments to dosing schedules or exploring alternatives with prescribers.
Q: WHAT ARE SOME OF THE PRACTICAL SLEEP STRATEGIES YOU SHARE WITH CLIENTS?
Dr. Harriott: Many clients benefit from sleep hygiene education, which covers maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a peaceful sleep environment, and limiting caffeine, alcohol, and screen time before bed. Simple habits like incorporating a calming bedtime routine, such as journaling or reading, can have a big impact.
PAWS, PURRS & PEACE
The Wellness Benefits of Animals for Our Mind, Body, and Spirit
ARTICLE BY TIFFANY JOUBERT
Animals have a profound way of healing our hearts, enhancing our health, and transforming our lives in unexpected ways. From the gentle comfort of a purring cat to the energizing playfulness of a dog, the benefits of animals are undeniable. Here, we explore the therapeutic power of our furry friends, spotlighting touching stories and scientific insights that reveal the transformative wellness they bring.
SOUL COMPANIONS: UNCONDITIONAL LOVE AND SUPPORT
Krista Goodrich, shares a deeply personal testament to the power of animal companionship. Krista, a confident and accomplished woman, attributes much of her inner strength to her beloved dog, Dot. “Dot was my safe space. She was the reason I could fall asleep feeling safe and could enter any room knowing I would be okay. She helped me see myself the way she saw me—fearlessly,” Krista explains.
Scientific research shows that animals can help lower anxiety, reduce stress, and provide emotional stability, giving us resilience to face life’s challenges. Simply petting a dog or cat releases oxytocin, the “love hormone,” which reduces cortisol and helps us feel connected, calm, and supported.
Quick Tip: Animal Encounters for Wellness
Experience the joy animals bring to wellness! From pet therapy and goat yoga to eco-tours, there are many ways animals enrich our lives. Visiting zoos, walking shelter dogs, or watching wildlife boosts happiness, reduces stress, and creates a deeper connection to nature.
Nick Reagan looks like he's straight out of a post card horse back riding on a Reagan family vacation. Horses are a an important animal in therapy.
HEALING HOOVES AND FURRY THERAPISTS:
INNOVATIVE ANIMAL THERAPIES
In recent years, animal therapy has expanded to include creative options like goat yoga and therapeutic zoo visits. Interacting with animals in these settings has been shown to improve mood, increase relaxation, and promote mental clarity. Goat yoga, for example, combines traditional yoga practices with the playful energy of goats, encouraging relaxation, laughter, and a renewed connection to nature.
Animals can even help detect health conditions. Dogs, can detect certain types of cancer, diabetes, and even seizures in people. Scientific studies reveal that dogs can sniff out specific odors in breath or sweat that signal health problems, offering early detection that can be life-saving.
SCIENCE OF HEALING: ANIMAL COMPANIONS FOR MENTAL AND PHYSICAL WELLNESS
Animals don’t just make us feel better emotionally—they improve our physical health too. Research shows that having a pet can lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and improve heart health. The soothing frequency of a cat’s purr has been found to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.
The impact of animals on mental health is also profound. Whether it’s a dog helping ease anxiety, or a therapy horse assisting with PTSD, animals provide non-judgmental companionship that has been shown to improve mood and well-being.
WELLNESS PARTNERS FOR LIFE
Marie King’s Jack Russell, Cracker Jack, is another heartwarming example. During her husband’s final days in hospice, Marie brought Cracker Jack along for a visit. At one point, she set him down, and he went directly to a woman slumped in a chair. Cracker Jack gently placed his paws on her lap, and, to everyone’s surprise, the woman—who had been unresponsive for seven months— raised a hand to pet him. The love of an animal had awakened her to the moment, bringing joy and connection back into her life.
AT HOME OR IN THERAPY, ANIMALS ARE TRUE HEALERS
From stories of rescue animals saving lives to scientific research proving their health benefits, animals are powerful allies in wellness. Their presence nurtures our souls, reminding us that sometimes, the greatest therapists are those with fur, paws, and a love that transcends words.
Animals bring immeasurable benefits to our well-being. From lowering stress and enhancing our mental health to detecting physical illness, animals remind us of the joy and resilience are essential to health and wellness. Whether you’re savoring a quiet moment with a beloved pet, or experiencing the peace of animal-assisted therapy, connecting with animals offers a grounding, enriching path toward a healthier life—one filled with compassion, connection, and balance. Have you
been to the Doggie Beach in Ormond? Nanette McKeel Petrella walks Mac, Samson and Delilah... or maybe it’s the other way around!
events
JANUARY 5TH
Daytona Beach Symphony Society Presents: Jacksonville Symphony on Broadway
Peabody | 7:00 PM
No children age 4 and under will be admitted. Come listen to the sounds of Broadway.
JANUARY 19TH
Mr. and Mrs. Mentoring Present: Our Youth Matter Gala
Hard Rock Hotel Daytona | 5:00 PM
Our Youth Matter Gala is a must-attend event for anyone passionate about empowering and supporting our youth and community. We will be celebrating the impact that influential people and organizations such as Mr and Ms Mentoring, are making within the At- Risk Population.
JANUARY 25TH
Taste
of the 24 at Rolex 24
Daytona International Speedway | 6:00 PM
The Taste of the 24 is a unique dining experience with non-stop racing, entertainment, and a blend of samples from the area’s best restaurants! This event happens during the Rolex 24 at DAYTONA® from the Midway Suites of Daytona International Speedway.
VIP Ticket Entrance: 5:30 PM
Regular Ticket Entrance: 6:00 PM
As we age, the delicate skin around our eyes and face begins to show signs of wear—fine lines, wrinkles, dark circles, puffiness, and sagging. Daytona MedSpa, offers the revolutionary NeoGen PSR Technology to restore and rejuvenate your eye area and face, leaving you refreshed and youthful—all without surgery.
Imagine looking in the mirror and seeing: smooth, wrinkle-free skin around your eyes; lifted, youthful eyelids; bright, refreshed eyes free from dark circles; vanished puffiness and under-eye bags; and radiant skin that glows with confidence. Reclaim your youthful glow today!
Mayce “the NeoGen expert at Daytona Medspa” has taken my face, and hands back about 10 years with the Neogen PSR treatment. My hyperpigmentation is gone, my wrinkles around my lips and eyes are smooth and my overall skin condition is much improved. I’m completely happy with the results and the continued improvement! If you are looking for non-invasive rejuvenation treatments for face and body, I highly recommend Daytona Medspa and the NeoGen Treatment!
— Rebecca Lane
Sara Chrisman Founder of Daytona Medspa