Little Rock, AR January 2025 by City Lifestyle

Kent dover, allison pickell, kelly o’dwyer, paulette richie, dana kellerman, inez reeder, jim McAdams, marva caldwell, stephanie hurst, karen upton

Not Pictured: Kim robbins, leigh spann, doug wingfield

We Wish You a Happy, Healthy New Year!

Happy New Year, friends!

In sifting through new year’s quotes, there was one by Alfred Lord Tennyson that stood out to me: “Hope smiles from the threshold of the year to come, whispering, ‘It will be happier.’”

How beautiful is this thought? Whether you had the perfect year or one filled with struggles, there is something so comforting in knowing that a brand new year lies ahead of us filled with possibilities. And hope.

Our January issue is devoted to all things Health & Wellness to help you achieve whatever goals you may have.

In “Healthcare from the Inside Out,” we shine a bright light on Regen Med, a new and powerful Little Rock clinic that recognizes the relationship between internal health and aesthetics and provides holistic, personalized healthcare addressing wellness from the inside out in a beautiful, spa-like setting. You’ve never experienced anything like this revolutionary space!

And speaking of revolutionary, we are thrilled to introduce you to ARTX Cryogen, the exclusive provider of high-pressure cryotherapy in Arkansas. Owned by Tom and Stephany Thomas, ARTX Cryogen’s targeted treatment delivers precise cold therapy directly to injured areas, maximizing the body’s natural healing response. Read more about it in “Stay Cool.”

Looking for ways to make your home healthier? Our friends at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Greater Little Rock have partnered with Brita Pro to offer a full range of advanced water filtration solutions tailored to the unique needs of each homeowner. Read more in “Clean Water Solutions.”

For those opting to eat healthier and move mindfully in the new year, Flora Jean’s offers a plant-focused, delicious menu, and its sister venue, Sixth House offers yoga, meditation and sound baths. Find out more in “Flourishing at Flora Jean’s.”

If you’re observing “Dry January,” have we got a mocktail for you this month! In “Cheers to Cherries!” we pay homage to the powerful superfood. And speaking of cherries – we must give a huge thank you to artist Shelley Gentry whose brilliant “Life” adorns our cover this month. We are reminded of Lew Brown’s famous lyrics, “Life is just a bowl of cherries – so live and laugh at it all!” After all, laughter is “The Best Medicine,” so be sure to check out our best comedy picks in this month’s issue.

We’ve definitely got you covered when it comes to wellness this month. Remember, friends, hope stands at the threshold this year with its promise of happiness. May it be your best year yet!

STEPHANIE HASBROUCK, PUBLISHER

@LITTLEROCKCITYLIFESTYLE

January 2025

PUBLISHER

Stephanie Hasbrouck stephanie.hasbrouck@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Alex Hardgrave | alexandra.hardgrave@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Alex Hardgrave, Stephanie Hasbrouck, Caitlin Agnew

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Sarah Bussey Photography, Katie Adkins Photography, Life N Light

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 Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

MARK BLANEY “THE BEAN FIELD” 48” X 54” OIL

city scene

1: Little Rock City Lifestyle celebrated its six-month anniversary recently at Art Group Gallery. 2: Artist Vonda Rainey with event planner Ashley Napier

3: David Hasbrouck and Publisher Stephanie Hasbrouck visit with Tom and Stephany Thomas of ARTX Cryogen. 4: Editor Alex Hardgrave and husband

Tristan Jackson 5: Loisrie Company Owner Emily Clement (right) and her mother, Beverly 6: Artist April Burris with Little Rock City Lifestyle contributor Katherine Jones and Dr. Alex Jones. 7: Food was provided by Sauced Bar and Oven. Flowers provided by Angie Stafford of Stafford Design Co.

– 10: The Punch Bowl recently held its holiday celebration. 11: Virgil Miller with Stacy Sells and Tim Gauger 12: Boswell Mourot Fine Art recently held its annual holiday party. 13: The Woodses, the Lefferts, the Akes, the Rowes and the Joneses at CARTI’s Tux ‘n Trees Gala. 14: Artists, collectors and community representatives attended the Boswell Mourot holiday event.

business monthly

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Donate Your Vehicle to Habitat for Humanity

Did you know you can donate your vehicle to Habitat for Humanity? Since launching its national vehicle donation program, Cars for Homes, in 2005, Habitat for Humanity has accepted more than 160,000 vehicles for reselling or recycling. All proceeds raised locally help Habitat for Humanity of Central Arkansas build homes in Pulaski County. Cars, trucks, RVs, vans, SUVs, boats and motorcycles are accepted - whether they run or not. Towing is free! Visit bit.ly/hfhcacarsforhomes for more information.

Scan to read more

Save the Date: The Chocolate Fantasy Ball Will Be March 8

The 2025 Chocolate Fantasy Ball benefitting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas & North Louisiana will be held March 8 at the Statehouse Convention Center. Mark your calendar for this beautiful evening of sweet treats to benefit families of critically ill children. The night will include dinner, live and silent auctions, live entertainment and dancing. Sponsorships and tables are available now. Visit chocolatefantasyball.com .

Exhibition on Screen Presents Vermeer: The Greatest Exhibition Jan. 25

Exhibition on Screen Presents Vermeer: The Greatest Exhibition at 4 p.m. Jan. 25 at Ron Robinson Theater. The documentary film invites audiences to a private viewing of this spectacular exhibition on the big screen, accompanied by the director of the Rijksmuseum and the curators of the show. The retrospective is the largest ever devoted exclusively to the “master of light.” Visit events.cals.org for more information.

Stanley is central Arkansas’ most trusted name in

and Laura Stanley is proud to continue the family tradition. A 3rd generation jeweler, she specializes in custom design, personal shopping for just the right piece, estate jewelry, or re-designing those pieces that just aren’t working for you anymore. Working by appointment is a private and personal experience, and once you visit her salon, you’ll feel the difference! Laura’s passion for fine jewelry comes through with every project.

the CITY LIST

GYM

We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

Want to suggest a monthly pick?

Camp Yoga and Pilates campyogaandpilates.com

The Athletic Clubs lrac.com

Zen Studio Fitness zenstudiofitness.com

Barefoot Studio barefootstudio.com

Omnis CrossFit West omnisfitness.com/little-rock

Mental Health Provider

New Path Mental Health & Wellness newpathlittlerock.com

Argenta Counseling & Wellness argentacounseling.com

Chenal Family Therapy chenaltherapy.com

Behavioral Health Services of Arkansas bhsarkansas.org

Alleviant Integrated Mental Health alleviant.com

Franchise Owner, Allen Westlake

HEALTHCARE FROM THE INSIDE OUT

ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HASBROUCK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY

SARAH BUSSEY PHOTOGRAPHY

REGEN MED PROVIDES HOLISTIC, PERSONALIZED HEALTHCARE & AESTHETICS EMPOWERING ITS CLIENTS TO FEEL THEIR BEST

Individuals often think of health and beauty as two separate entities, but both blend together at Regen Med. This newly opened Little Rock clinic recognizes the relationship between internal health and aesthetics and provides holistic, personalized healthcare addressing wellness from the inside out in an unexpected, spa-like setting.

“When clients enter our clinic, we hope they feel an immediate sense of calm and reassurance. Our goal is to create a welcoming and nurturing environment far removed from the typical medical clinic atmosphere. We want them to experience a sanctuary where their health and well-being are prioritized in every detail,” says Dr. Tina Ipe.

Dr. Ipe and her husband Jaison opened Regen Med in the spring with the goal of offering a range of healthcare services in a serene atmosphere.

“From the soothing aromatherapy that greets them to the comfortable, non-hospital-like furniture, every element is designed to make patients feel at ease. We want our patients and clients to feel confident that they are in a place where their individual needs will be met with care and expertise. Whether they are here for therapeutic apheresis, wellness infusions or regenerative aesthetics, we aim for them to feel supported on their journey to improved health and vitality,” Dr. Ipe says.

REGEN MED’S IMPRESSIVE MENU OF SERVICES INCLUDES:

• Multispecialty and Wellness Infusion Therapy, which delivers medications or carefully curated essential nutrients directly into the bloodstream, ensuring rapid and effective treatment for various conditions and wellness concerns.

• Functional Medicine, with food acting as medicine to address imbalances, such as thyroid issues and hormonal disruptions.

• Regenerative Aesthetics, utilizing the body’s own resources to enhance skin health by stimulating natural collagen production. Biostimulators such as Sculptra for collagen and Renuva for fat production are used at the clinic.

• Peptide Therapy, an innovative treatment supporting many health aspects, including osteoporosis management, weight loss, skin health and enhanced sexual health.

• Therapeutic Apheresis, a procedure in which blood is passed through a medical device that removes pathological and inflammatory substances, such as toxins like metals and poisons, autoantibodies and cytokines from the blood. More than 180 medical conditions can be treated with this modality.

While all of Regen Med’s therapies are powerful and important, its therapeutic apheresis is most cutting edge.

“Our clinic is the only one in the United States that provides therapeutic apheresis for adults and children for all medical conditions in a non-hospital or hospital-associated setting,” Dr. Ipe says.

“Clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of therapeutic apheresis in treating a wide range of medical conditions. It has shown promise in managing Alzheimer’s disease, where it decreases amyloid proteins associated with cognitive decline. For patients with hypercholesterolemia not responsive to conventional medications, apheresis can lower cholesterol levels, reducing cardiovascular events risk. The treatment has also gained attention for Long Covid, offering hope to those struggling with persistent effects of the virus. By removing inflammatory markers and autoantibodies, apheresis may alleviate debilitating symptoms associated with this condition,” Dr. Ipe says.

Offering this and other treatments in a non-hospital setting was extremely important to Dr. Ipe, a double board-certified physician and clinical researcher, who spent more than a decade working in hospital settings. Before entering private practice, Dr. Ipe was an Associate Medical Director at Houston Methodist Hospital and a Division Director at UAMS in Little Rock.

“Each of (these) opportunities taught me invaluable skills in leadership and leading a team. It also taught me what was lacking in medicine and what patients sought,” she says.

“In medicine, we are trained to prevent patients from dying without giving much thought to the quality of life that the patient experiences while living with a disability or disease. However, I enjoy looking for better ways to do things in my professional and personal life. Medicine is conservative and rooted in not thinking out of the box, and often, we fail to do more than keep patients alive.”

Dr. Ipe’s innovative approach to medicine is dedicated to going above and beyond so that her clients do more than simply survive. They thrive

“At Regen Med, I get a front-row view of how Tina impacts each patient’s life,” Jaison says. “She spends a significant amount of time listening to patients and then educating them, in layman’s terms, about their medical conditions and available treatment options while maintaining a holistic view of the patient. At the clinic, not a single day goes by without a patient saying, ‘I wish I had been educated about this medical condition’ or ‘Thank you for listening to me and treating me as a person and not a medical condition.’

“Regen Med’s growth is a testament to Tina’s meticulous, compassionate and holistic approach to each patient’s medical care.”

For more information on Regen Med or to schedule an appointment, visit regenmed.vip

“WE WANT OUR PATIENTS AND CLIENTS TO FEEL CONFIDENT THAT THEY ARE IN A PLACE WHERE THEIR INDIVIDUAL NEEDS WILL BE MET WITH CARE AND EXPERTISE.”

CLEAN WATER SOLUTIONS

BENJAMIN FRANKLIN PLUMBING OFFERS WATER FILTRATION SYSTEMS TO PROTECT HOME AND HEALTH

ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HASBROUCK

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Audrey Hepburn once said, “Water is life, and clean water means health.”

We all know this to be true – opting to consume the cleanest, filtered drinking water whenever possible. But Brian Morris, Operations Manager of Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Greater Little Rock, advises homeowners to incorporate filtered water into all aspects of the home.

“Filtered water safeguards plumbing fixtures and appliances, such as water heaters, dishwashers and washing machines, from hard

water and sediment buildup, which can lead to premature wear and costly repairs. Investing in a water filtration system is also eco-friendly, reducing plastic waste from bottled water and saving money over time. The benefits extend far beyond drinking water, impacting your family’s health, your home’s longevity and your environmental footprint.”

Benjamin Franklin Plumbing and Brita Pro have partnered together to offer a full range of advanced water filtration solutions tailored to the unique needs of each homeowner.

“Our compact point-source reverse osmosis systems provide pure, clean hydration, ensuring every glass of water meets the highest standards,” Brian says. “For whole-home solutions, we offer advanced, three- and four-stage canister filtration systems capable of removing contaminants down to a single micron. These systems effectively eliminate PFAS and PFOA, also known as ‘forever chemicals,’ which can impact long-term health and wellness.”

He says the Brita Pro 3-Stage Filtration System performs beyond EPA and municipal standards, removing chlorine, heavy metals and mineral scale.

“It delivers clean, great-tasting water throughout your home for drinking, cooking, bathing and more.”

Installation typically takes only a day.

“The process begins with a pre-consultation, where our expert technicians assess your home’s needs and discuss the best filtration option for the best solution,” Brian says.

“Water quality testing is a critical part of ensuring the right filtration solution. Our technicians perform basic water tests to assess the levels of common contaminants,” he says.

“Before finalizing the installation, we will inspect the newly added system with the homeowner, explain the maintenance schedule for your system and answer any final questions about the new system.”

“Every home deserves the best, purest water possible — for drinking, cooking, bathing and beyond.”

—BRIAN MORRIS

The end result: cleaner water that is healthier for the homeowner – and the home.

“Clean contaminant-free water is essential for life and well-being. Every home deserves the best, purest water possible — for drinking, cooking, bathing and beyond.”

For more information, visit Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Greater Little Rock at benjaminfranklinplumbing.com/ greater-little-rock.

POWER POSES

BRIDGE POSE (SETU BANDHA SARVANGASANA)

Project radiance up and out from your heart while strengthening your back body.

Open your heart for increased confidence and counteract “text neck” while you’re at it.

ARTICLE BY CAITLIN AGNEW PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIFE N LIGHT

Brett Larkin, founder of Uplifted Yoga, teaches yoga designed to ignite a personal transformation. A trailblazer in the online yoga space, her award-winning YouTube channel has over 500,000 subscribers. Here she shares power poses to incorporate into your practice for a confident and powerful year.

WILD THING (CAMATKARASANA)

Take up space. Get fierce. Practice stretching into the fullest expression of who you are.

CAN YOGA HELP BUILD SELF-ESTEEM?

Confidence is all about feeling good in your own skin, and practicing yoga makes you more aware of your body. You are tuning into your breath, your feelings, and your true vision. Physically it strengthens you. Mentally it helps you focus. With improved posture, you stand taller; and with a clear mind you are more prepared and confident to take on what comes your way.

For more info about Brett and her online training options for all levels, go to BrettLarkin.com.

CAMEL POSE (USTRASANA)

FLOURISHING at FLORA JEAN’S

ARTICLE BY ALEX HARDGRAVE PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE ADKINS PHOTOGRAPHY

A unique restaurant has taken root downtown: Flora Jean’s.

Founded by sisters Helen Grace King, Leila King and sister-in-law Kamiya King, Flora Jean’s is a welcoming hub for those seeking healthy, nourishing meals.

The idea was born out of the sisters’ own health journey during the pandemic. As they navigated the challenges of running their first restaurant, @ The Corner Modern Diner, they found solace in reconnecting with nature and the healing power of nutrient-dense food. Inspired by their journey, they reimaged their original vision for the space.

“We felt the effects of food as medicine,” Helen Grace says. “We were excited to give that to the community because she’s a gift.”

Flora Jean’s name reflects its plant-focused menu and location in a former denim factory. Once the sisters felt aligned with their new vision, the restaurant’s concept took shape in one afternoon. They were able to open their doors only a few months later.

“We just listened to our gut, and it all came together so easily,” she says.

LITTLE ROCK VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT STAYS TRUE TO ITS MISSION AS IT ENTERS ITS THIRD YEAR

“OUR GOAL FOR 2025 IS TO DIVE INTO THE EDUCATION PIECE, TO HELP PEOPLE understand WHAT FOOD AS MEDICINE MEANS AND THE importance OF COMBINING CERTAIN FOODS.”

Central to Flora Jean’s mission is sustainability. The restaurant prioritizes sourcing ingredients locally and works with other trusted partners nationwide to bring high-quality organic goods to Little Rock. The menu changes with the seasons, thanks to a digital QR code system that allows for seamless updates. This adaptability ensures dishes are fresh, creative and reflective of what’s available at any given time.

Beyond the food, Flora Jean’s compliments the sisters’ other venture, Sixth House, a wellness studio offering yoga, meditation, sound baths and more.

“Flora Jean’s is the food as medicine portion, and Sixth House is the movement as medicine portion,” she says.

As it has settled into the community, Flora Jeans not only nourishes the bodies of residences but also builds a sense of community. Helen Grace said it’s created a space for people, especially families with kids who have dietary restrictions.

As the sisters continue to grow Flora Jean’s, they continue to grow their mission by making wellness accessible and affordable.

“A lot of people don’t feel like Flora Jean’s is for them because she’s vegetarian, but she’s for everyone,” Helen Grace says.

Now in its third year, they are focused on deepening their community education efforts, teaching people how nutrient-dense foods can heal the body.

“Our goal for 2025 is to dive into the education piece, to help people understand what food as medicine means and the importance of combining certain foods,” she says. “We want to make it accessible in layman’s terms so people can truly grasp the benefits of this way of eating.”

“FLORA JEAN’S KEEPS US ON our own path ... SHE BRINGS US BACK TO our core AND our mission BECAUSE SHE’S ULTIMATELY WHAT we believe IN.”

Sixth House has offered a speaker series in the past, and Helen Grace says they plan to continue that into the next year, pairing menus with the series’ messages.

The restaurant is a place full of passion for them and they hope that others will come to try the food and share in that.

“Flora Jean’s keeps us on our own path,” she says. “So when we get off the bandwagon, or life makes us take a detour, she brings us back to our core and our mission because she’s ultimately what we believe in.”

Flora Jean’s is open 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. It’s located at 433 East Third Street. They also offer a supper series, so be on the lookout for dates for that. For more information, visit their website at eatcleanflorajeans.com

JANUARY 8TH – FEBRUARY 1ST

Ripcord

Murry’s Dinner Playhouse | 6:00 PM

A comedy about two friends in a senior living facility who stage pranks on one another. What starts out as hilarious fun between the friends quickly turns into a dangerous game as they continue to try to one-up each other and deep secrets threaten to be revealed. For more information and tickets, visit murrysdp.com/shows/2025-show-schedule/ripcord/

JANUARY 17TH

Argenta Arts District 3rd Friday Arts Walk

Argenta District | 5:00 PM

Various locations around Argenta’s main street will be featuring original art from local and regional artists. Walk around to visit each stop and enjoy drinks and snacks along the way. For more information, visit argentaartsdistrict.org/event/third-friday-night-art-walk-3/2025-01-17/.

JANUARY 18TH – 19TH & 25TH – 26TH

An Unlikely Hero

Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts | 10:30 AM

Part of a rolling world premiere production of “With Great Power: The TYA BIPOC Superhero Project,” a national partnership dedicated to creating new generations of plays about heroes for young people, this show is about Jordan, a regular kid trying to find his way at a hero school. For more information and tickets, visit events.arkmfa.org/series/an-unlikely-hero/.

JANUARY 25TH

The Harlem Globetrotters World Tour

Simmons Bank Arena | 2:00 PM

Fun for the whole family, the Harlem Globetrotters will show off all the amazing spins, slams and dunks you’ve come to expect, as they face off against the Washington Generals. For tickets and more information, visit simmonsbankarena.com/concerts-shows/ harlem-globetrotters-2025-world-tour-presented-by-jersey-mikes-subs/ .

JANUARY 25TH – 26TH

Arkansas Symphony Orchestra: Zee Zee Plays Liszt

Robinson Center | 7:30 PM

Zee Zee’s numerous accolades in the world of piano performance make her one you won’t want to miss as she performs in Little Rock. She will play selections from Franz Liszt, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor and William Dawson. For tickets and to read more about Zee Zee, visit arkansassymphony.org/events/zee-zee-liszt/#tickets.

JANUARY 31ST – FEBRUARY 2ND

Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations

Robinson Center | 7:30 PM

This musical full of history tells the story of the Motown group’s rise to fame, their personal and political struggles and induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Nominated for 12 Tony Awards, this show tells the thrilling story of brotherhood, family, loyalty and betrayal. For tickets, visit ticketmaster.com/aint-too-proud-the-life-and-tickets/artist/2737478?venueId=221397

Mother Vine Market

Stay Cool

ARTICLE BY ALEX HARDGRAVE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH BUSSEY PHOTOGRAPHY

With more than 15 years of experience in the medical field and dealing with injuries himself, Tom Thomas has seen firsthand the challenges people face in finding effective treatments for pain.

That was until friend and colleague Greg Papageorge, owner of New York Cryogen, introduced him to ground-breaking technology that he had invented after dealing with extensive spine surgeries and recovery himself.

“He had basically tried everything, and nothing was working, so he was trying different cold therapy methods, and the light bulb went off, and he created high-pressure cryotherapy,” Tom says.

ARTX CRYOGEN BRINGS REVOLUTIONARY THERAPY METHOD TO LITTLE ROCK

“UNLIKE

TRADITIONAL CRYOTHERAPY METHODS, WHICH RELY ON SURFACE-LEVEL

COOLING OR WHOLE

BODY

SUBMERSION, HIGH-PRESSURE

CRYOTHERAPY

TARGETS SPECIFIC AREAS OF PAIN FOR DEEPER TISSUE PENETRATION.”

Tom worked with Greg to bring a device to deliver the therapy to Arkansas at their business ARTX Cryogen, where he and his wife, Stephany, are now the exclusive providers of high-pressure cryotherapy in the state.

Since the therapy’s inception, it has been used in more than 10,000 treatments nationwide and has been approved by the American Medical Association.

So what makes this different from something like an ice bath or the cryotherapy chambers with which one may be more familiar?

“Unlike traditional cryotherapy methods, which rely on surface-level cooling or whole body submersion, Highpressure cryotherapy targets specific areas of pain for deeper tissue penetration,” Tom says.

According to observations and a clinical trial, this is effective at treating pain because it operates on the principle of rapid and controlled reduction of tissue inflammation, which is a primary contributor to pain and various musculoskeletal conditions.

High-pressure cryotherapy targets deeper tissue penetration by utilizing optimized skin surface temperatures. This is believed to accelerate the healing process and reduce acute and chronic pain.

Stephany and Tom start the therapy by placing a protective sheathing material to help prevent the cold from making direct contact with the skin and avoid any irritation. Then, they target the area with liquid carbon dioxide (CO2) from a tank with the Hercules device that regulates the pressure and velocity of the CO2. Throughout the therapy, they also use a thermal monitoring device to measure the temperature of the area and make sure it reaches the optimal skin temperature, which is between 35 and 43 degrees, as this temperature has been identified as sufficiently cold enough to reduce inflammation and pain without inducing side effects. By constantly checking the temperature with a thermal monitor, they keep their clients safe.

Tom & Stephany Thomas

ARTX CRYOGEN

Tom Thomas is the CEO of ARTX Cryogen. With a background in medical devices and biotechnology, Tom brings extensive industry knowledge and a passion for innovation to Arkansas. He previously worked and held leadership roles at the International Stem Cell Medical Center, as well as Medtronic, NuVasive, and K2 Medical, in spine surgery, where he worked closely with orthopedic spine and neurosurgeons at renowned medical institutions, such as Mayo Clinic, New York University, Rush Hospital in Chicago, Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, and Barrows Neurological Institute in Phoenix.

Stephany Thomas is the COO at ARTX Cryogen, driving a customer-first approach and operational excellence. With a background in retail, real estate, legal and more, she excels in client relations and strategic planning. She is also working toward certifications in nutrition and personal training. Stephany is dedicated to fostering a people-first culture and delivering top-notch standards, which makes her instrumental in its success and growth.

“Safety is paramount for us,” Tom says. “What we’ve found is that the treatment protocol, which targets the area of concern, is designed to extend the anti-inflammatory effects by maintaining a sustained application of cryotherapy once the desired skin temperature is achieved.”

It is also recommended that clients consult their doctors before starting high-pressure cryotherapy as there are some contraindications to cold therapy for those with certain conditions, Tom says.

Clinical trials have shown that people typically achieve optimal results after the third to fourth treatment. The frequency depends on the area being treated, whether the injury is acute or chronic and the severity of the condition.

Close proximity between sessions increases the likelihood of effectively eliminating and providing lasting relief, Tom says.

The results speak for themselves. Tom and Stephany have seen a wide range of people at ARTX Cryogen, from athletes recovering from sprains and strains to elderly individuals seeking relief from chronic pain.

“An elderly lady with knee pain was able to resume normal activities after treatment,” Tom says. “She said, ‘Oh my gosh, I was able to wear my stilettos and high heels again.’”

Stephany and Tom have also used the therapy for their own weight-lifting injuries.

“We did two treatments, and I was back in the gym in a couple of days,” Stephany says.

She adds that people who are going through physical therapy or doing things like yoga to help with pain and mobility should continue these activities along with high-pressure cryotherapy.

The couple remains committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of cryotherapy. There is a new version of the device set to be released soon, and the couple often goes to New York to continue training with the inventor himself, Greg.

“We’re constantly exploring new ways to improve the technology and expand its reach,” Tom says. “Our goal is to make high-pressure cryotherapy accessible to as many people as possible.”

They’re currently working to get insurance to cover the therapy, which Tom says will happen soon. They also hope to expand their business.

To book an appointment at ARTX Cryogen and for cost information, call 501-516-3128 or visit artxcryogen.com.

CHEERS

CHERRIES! TO

ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HASBROUCK PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED

Celebrate Health, Wellness & Dry January with this Superfood Mocktail

It’s been said that “life is just a bowl of cherries,” and it just so happens that cherries might improve your life. This nutrient-dense, heart-healthy fruit may lower blood pressure and cholesterol, combat inflammation, help the body manage stress, speed recovery after exercise, balance your mood and help you sleep. To say it is a superfood may be an understatement. So it’s only fitting that we include a mocktail recipe with cherries as the star ingredient this month. Let’s drink to health, wellness and a wonderful year ahead! Cheers!

CHERRY FIZZ:

DIRECTIONS:

1. Place cherries and honey in glass and muddle together.

2. Add cherry juice and top with sparkling water or ginger ale. (If adding ginger ale, do not add honey.)

3. Squeeze lime juice and add lime wedge.

4. Garnish with mint leaf.

INGREDIENTS:

• ¼ cup Frozen cherries

• ¼ cup Tart cherry juice

• 1 tsp Honey, optional

• 1 Lime wedge

• Sparkling water

• Mint leaves

The BEST Medicine

Incorporate More Laughter into Your Life with Our Top Comedy Picks

With the turn of the new year, many of us are thinking about our health — getting back into the gym or eating more vegetables. What about adding more laughter to our lives? After all, they say laughter is the best medicine. What better way to stay happy and motivated during these cold winter months than to take some time now and then to share in the joy of a funny film? We’ve compiled a list of our top choices to give you some inspiration:

The Princess Bride

starring Cary Elwes, Robin Wright and Mandy Patinkin

RATED PG

A pirate sets out on a quest to rescue his true love, encountering an eccentric band of allies and villains along the way. With adventure, romance and a sharp sense of humor, it’s a tale of true love and adventure.

Legally Blonde

Napoleon Dynamite

starring Jon Heder and Efren Ramirez

RATED PG

Napoleon, an awkward teen, helps his new friend Pedro run for class president while navigating his eccentric family and the trials of high school.

starring Reese Witherspoon, Jennifer Coolidge and Selma Blair

RATED PG-13

After being dumped by her boyfriend, Elle Woods, a pink-loving sorority girl, enrolls in Harvard Law School to win him back. Along the way, she teaches herself and everyone around her not to judge a book by its cover.

Mean Girls

starring Lindsay Lohan, Rachel McAdams and Tina Fey

RATED PG-13

Cady Heron experiences American high school for the first time, becoming entangled with the Plastics — a clique of popular girls —while trying to figure out where she truly belongs.

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

starring Matthew Broderick, Alan Ruck and Mia Sara

RATED PG-13

High schooler Ferris Bueller fakes being sick to skip school. Then he embarks on an elaborate day off in Chicago with his best friend and girlfriend while trying not to get caught by the principal.