The Health and Wellness Issue
Life Is Short, So Make It Sweet
For many of us, this time of year is full of excitement. It presents us with a reset, new horizons and goals to pursue.
But for others, January can be a reminder of failed attempts from years past and the burden of expectation that this year will be different.
We approached this issue of City Lifestyle Westlake from a mindset of not supplying quick fixes to check boxes in the short term but valuing what is sustainable over the long haul. We wanted to provide inspiration for making lasting, realistic, long-term improvements to your physical, emotional and mental health.
When it comes to anything in life - business, finance, food, home and personal health – it’s not what you do some days that move the needle - it’s what you do MOST days. For better or worse!
For instance, taking a vacation every day would be financially and practically unfeasible, but taking a trip a few times a year is doable. Having a beautiful steak dinner with a few cocktails and creme brulee every night for dinner isn’t best for your health, but doing so once in a while might be fine!
It’s not the sometimes choices we make, it’s the most of the time choices.
So plan the vacation AND work to establish more regular rest in your work week. Join a fitness community or gym AND enjoy that dessert you’ve been wanting to try at Luca West.. It’s not what you do some days - it’s what you do most days that will lead to a more peaceful, filling and fabulous year.
Here’s to you! We’re rooting for you.
KEARSTEN KOPF, EDITOR
January 2025
PUBLISHER
Abby Miller | abby.miller@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Kearsten Kopf | kearsten.kopf@citylifestyle.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 Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
QUALITY
Cagle
Abigail Miller, Realtor Since 2004
William Gallagher, Realtor Since 1994
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
Want to be seen in the magazine?
LORAIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
CATHY VOCAIRE
CATHY VOCAIRE
CATHY VOCAIRE
CATHY VOCAIRE
CATHY VOCAIRE
CATHY VOCAIRE
1: Tony Gallo (Lorain County Chamber Of Commerce) and Victoria and James Mowbray. Griswold’s Christmas Pop-up bar 2: Andrew Perry, Frank Bolognia, Jay and Cathy Vocaire 3: Welcome 4: Ellen Bolognia, Diane and Tom Deasy 5: The Griswold’s Living Room 6: She’s a beaut Clark! Avon Lake 7: Griswold’s Pop-up Christmas Bar at Old School in Avon Lake
business monthly
Luca West Italian Cuisine
Destined to become an immediate favorite, Luca West offers a blend of traditional and modern high-end Northern Italian dishes that consistently delight both firsttime patrons and loyal guests. Commitment to excellence plays a pivotal role for the restaurant’s team, ensuring that each guest's visit is not just a meal but a memorable dining experience. Their expertise in wine selections and dedication to hospitality further elevate the ambiance. 24600 Detroit Road Westlake, OH 44145. 216.201.9600
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YogaSix
Offering 6 different class types from hot and powerful to slow and mindful. We also offer beginner classes and sculpt classes. Our teachers have been trained in the YogaSix methodology to provide a consistent but creative experience for each class type every time. They teach in a way that is easy for everyone to follow and understand. Our expert staff will help you find the right class to help you achieve your goals. (440) 754-1824
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Edacious Kitchen + Bar
Edacious combines a unique culinary experience with an inviting ambiance that keeps patrons coming back for more. Edacious prides itself on being a local favorite, offering a menu that showcases the best of seasonal ingredients, expertly prepared dishes, and an array of craft cocktails. 33451 Lake Road • Avon Lake, OH. Call for reservations 440 653 5995.
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Photography by Michael Wypasek Photography
Photography by Michael Wypasek Photography
Photography by Luca West
MEDICATION OVERUSE Headaches
WHEN
TREATMENT TURNS INTO A TRIGGER
ARTICLE BY BRENDAN W. BAUER MD, NEUROLOGIST
For millions of people worldwide, migraines are more than just headaches—they are a debilitating neurological condition that can disrupt daily life. In an attempt to manage the intense pain, many turn to over-the-counter or prescription medications. However, frequent use of these medications can sometimes lead to a phenomenon known as medication overuse headache (MOH), an unintended consequence that transforms relief into a recurring problem.
UNDERSTANDING MEDICATION OVERUSE HEADACHES
Medication overuse headache, also referred to as rebound headache, occurs when headache medications are taken too frequently—usually more than 10 to 15 days per month, depending on the drug. MOH typically presents as a dull, persistent headache, often accompanied by worsened migraine symptoms.
The irony is striking: medications designed to alleviate headaches can become the very cause of them. Drugs commonly associated with MOH include:
• Simple analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen, aspirin).
• Combination pain relievers (e.g., those containing caffeine or opioids).
• Triptans (commonly used for migraines).
• Ergotamines.
The exact mechanism behind MOH is not fully understood, but researchers believe that overuse disrupts the brain’s pain processing pathways, increasing sensitivity to pain and creating a vicious cycle of dependency.
Migraines are a complex neurological condition characterized by recurring attacks of moderate to severe head pain, often accompanied by nausea, light sensitivity, and visual disturbances. For individuals prone to migraines, the risk of developing MOH is particularly high. Chronic migraine sufferers, who experience headaches on 15 or more days per month, are at greatest risk due to their frequent medication use. CONTINUED >
When MOH develops, it complicates migraine management. What began as episodic migraines may evolve into a chronic and more intractable condition. This underscores the importance of strategic and judicious medication use in migraine treatment.
BREAKING THE CYCLE OF MOH
Treatment for medication overuse headache often involves:
1. Medication Withdrawal: Gradually reducing or stopping the overused medication under medical supervision.
2. Preventive Therapies: Using medications that prevent migraines, such as betablockers, anticonvulsants, or CGRP (calcitonin gene-related peptide) inhibitors.
3. Behavioral Approaches: Incorporating stress management, biofeedback, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
4. Lifestyle Adjustments: Encouraging adequate hydration, sleep hygiene, and avoidance of known triggers like certain foods or stress.
2. GEPANTS:
This newer class of oral medications, including ubrogepant and rimegepant, also blocks CGRP but is used for acute migraine treatment. Unlike triptans, gepants do not cause vasoconstriction and are less likely to contribute to MOH.
3. NEUROMODULATION DEVICES:
Non-invasive devices like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and vagus nerve stimulators offer drug-free migraine relief by targeting neural pathways involved in pain processing.
“Medication overuse headache, also referred to as rebound headache, occurs when headache medications are taken too frequently.”
Withdrawal can be challenging, as headache symptoms may temporarily worsen. However, this phase is often a necessary step toward longterm relief.
Fortunately, the field of migraine management has seen remarkable innovations in recent years, offering new hope for those with frequent migraines or medication overuse headaches.
1. CGRP INHIBITORS:
These medications, such as erenumab, galcanezumab, and fremanezumab, target CGRP, a molecule involved in the migraine process. They are highly effective for preventing migraines and have a low risk of causing MOH.
4. DITANS:
Lasmiditan, a serotonin receptor agonist, is another promising option for acute migraine treatment. It provides relief without the cardiovascular risks associated with traditional triptans.
The best way to manage migraines and avoid MOH is through prevention. This includes working closely with a healthcare provider to identify the most effective preventive treatments and adopting a holistic approach to care. For many, combining modern medical therapies with lifestyle modifications offers the best chance for reducing migraine frequency and severity. If you find yourself relying on medications more often than you’d like, it may be time to re-evaluate your treatment strategy. With today’s advancements, there is no reason to remain trapped in the cycle of medication overuse headaches.
Migraines may be a lifelong condition, but with proper care, they don’t have to control your life. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Brendan Bauer call (440) 925-5378 at NOMS Healthcare, Sheffield OH. www.nomshealthcare.com
ARTICLE BY KEARSTEN KOPF
PIONEERING DENTAL CARE WITH CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY
PREMIER FAMILY DENTAL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL WYPASEK PHOTOGRAPHY
In the heart of Westlake, Ohio, Premier Family Dental stands out as a leader in modern dentistry, seamlessly blending advanced technology with exceptional patient care. The clinic has embraced
Dr. Habashi received his dental education from the prestigious institution of UCLA school of dentistry, where he graduated with honors. He continually seeks to expand his knowledge and
“IN ADDITION TO GENERAL DENTISTRY SERVICES, DR. HABASHI SPECIALIZES IN COSMETIC DENTISTRY.”
a fully digital approach to dental practice, utilizing state-of-the-art 3D radiographs and intraoral scanners to enhance diagnostics and treatment planning. This commitment to innovation not only improves the accuracy of dental procedures but also elevates the overall patient experience.
At the helm is Dr. Mina Habashi, a highly skilled and experienced dentist who leads the Premier Family Dental practice. With a passion for providing top-notch dental care, Dr. Habashi has established himself as a respected professional in the field. In addition to general dentistry services, Dr. Habashi specializes in cosmetic dentistry, offering a range of treatments to enhance the appearance of his patients' smiles. From teeth whitening and veneers to crowns and dental implants, he is dedicated to helping his patients achieve the beautiful, confident smiles they desire.
stay up to date with the latest advancements in dentistry. This allows him to offer his patients the most effective and innovative treatments available.
One of the most significant advancements in dental imaging is the use of 3D radiographs, also known as cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Premier Family Dental utilizes this cutting-edge technology to provide a comprehensive view of a patient’s dental structure. Unlike traditional 2D X-rays, 3D radiographs produce detailed, three-dimensional images that allow dentists to visualize teeth, bone structure, and surrounding tissues with unparalleled clarity.
The benefits of 3D radiographs at Premier Family Dental are immense. They enable precise diagnosis of complex dental issues, such as impacted teeth, jawbone abnormalities, and infections. This technology allows for a more accurate assessment before any surgical
procedures, leading to improved outcomes and reduced recovery times for patients. Furthermore, the ability to visualize the entire oral anatomy in three dimensions aids in effective treatment planning, ensuring that patients receive tailored care that meets their specific needs.
In addition to 3D radiographs, Premier Family Dental uses intraoral scanners, a technology that has transformed the way dental impressions are taken. Traditional impression methods often involve messy materials and uncomfortable trays, leading to patient discomfort. In contrast, intraoral scanners provide a quick and comfortable alternative.
The process involves a small, handheld device that captures thousands of images per second, creating a precise digital impression of the patient’s teeth and gums. This digital model is used for a variety of applications, including crowns, bridges, and orthodontics. By eliminating the need for physical molds, intraoral scanners reduce the time spent in the dental chair and enhance the accuracy of restorations.
Moreover, digital impressions are easily stored, shared, and modified, facilitating better communication between dental professionals and laboratories. This efficiency not only streamlines the workflow but also ensures that patients receive timely treatment with exceptional results.
The digital approach also allows for better record-keeping and management, making it easier for the dental team to track patient histories, treatment
“PREMIER FAMILY DENTAL IS AT THE FOREFRONT OF DENTAL INNOVATION.”
plans, and progress over time. Patients at Premier Family Dental benefit from reduced wait times, increased accuracy in treatment, and a more streamlined overall experience.
Premier Family Dental is at the forefront of dental innovation, utilizing 3D radiographs and intraoral scanners to redefine patient care. The clinic’s fully digital approach not only enhances the precision of diagnostics and treatments but also prioritizes patient comfort and satisfaction. As technology continues to evolve, Premier Family Dental remains committed to providing its patients with the best possible care, ensuring that they leave with healthy smiles and positive experiences.
At Premier Family Dental, Dr. Habashi takes a comprehensive approach to dental care, focusing not only on the aesthetics of a patient's smile but also on their overall oral health. He believes in building strong relationships with his patients, taking the time to listen to their concerns and develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their needs.
Dr. Habashi is known for his gentle and compassionate chairside manner, making even the most anxious patients feel at ease. He understands that visiting the dentist can be a stressful experience for some individuals and strives to create a comfortable and relaxed environment. With his expertise, dedication, and genuine care for his patients, Dr. Mina Habashi has established Premier Family Dental as a trusted dental practice in Westlake.
440-835-5388
BUILDING HEALTHIER
HEAR FROM NASM-CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINER ABOUT ESTABLISHING THE BEST HABITS
ARTICLE BY KRISTIN BURNELL
The new year is a classic kickoff to start fresh and build many resolutions that we all hope stick around. How many times do your resolutions fall through each year? It can be challenging to build new habits and switch up routines if you’re looking for a change. That’s why we rounded up the best advice to establishing habits and making them stay for good. We spoke with Danielle Johnston, National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)-certified personal trainer and aspiring kinesiologist, who broke down her top tips to maintaining healthy habits this new year.
HABITS
START WITH A SMALL HABIT AND MAKE IT SOMETHING YOU ENJOY
Think 1-3 things maximum and then give yourself at least a month or two to apply the change. If you like to eat and cook, maybe try a new recipe or browse a cookbook in the library or bookstore for inspiration. If you like fashion, maybe try cleaning out a section of your closet (i.e. tops, bottoms, shoes, etc) to make way for 1 new piece. If you like being outdoors, maybe you try adding in just a 5 minute walk down the road.
IF YOU MISS A DAY, TRY AGAIN
If you miss a day or make a mistake with whatever resolution you’re working on, take that next opportunity to try again. Danielle uses the goal to eat healthier as an example. Health can be interpreted in many different ways but if you can take the small first step of looking at ingredients, that alone can make a world’s difference in the recipe you use so maybe you don’t even have to alter or substitute it. Or if your goal is to snack less but one day you snack more, don’t wave the flag and sabotage your efforts. Take a minute to breathe through the moment and then move on, enjoying the ebb and flow of health instead of going all in or nothing. Starting small allows you to adjust everyday habits that will, with time, transition to lifestyle changes.
CREATE 3 DIFFERENT TYPES OF RESOLUTIONS
Danielle says to create 1 health resolution, 1 personal resolution, and 1 professional resolution as it is the best format to better yourself in multiple realms instead of just physical health. Too often, we get caught up in this “New Year New Me” mindset and create a list of things you want to change or start doing. But as they get lost in the busy to-do list of life and we forget,
“The new year is a classic kickoff to start fresh and build many resolutions that we all hope stick around.”
we can also feel like a failure and revert to “I’ll try again tomorrow or next year.” But what if you don’t have to start over, just keep going.
TRACK YOUR PROGRESS AND VISUALIZE YOUR FUTURE
Whether you keep a notebook of your habit building, or keep track on your phone, it is important to acknowledge the personal progress made. This will also help you see the future that you want to build as you make more desirable changes in your life. If you want to track how you feel after working out, it will serve as a reflection on the progress made through what has been written down. This will encourage you to continue pushing for your goals!
ARTICLE BY 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.
SUPERFOOD SMOOTHIE
INGREDIENTS:
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup frozen organic blueberries
• 1 scoop organic whey protein powder
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flax meal
• 1 scoop green superfood powder
VITALITY ELIXIR
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 celery stalk
• 1 lemon
• 1 green apple
• 1 cucumber
DIRECTIONS:
Mix all together in a blender until smooth.
DIRECTIONS:
Mix all together in a blender until smooth.
GREEN NECTAR
INGREDIENTS:
• 1/3 cup celery
• 1/2 cup cucumber
• 1/2 cup kale
• 2/3 cup Granny Smith apples
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 cup coconut water
DIRECTIONS:
Mix all together in a blender until smooth.
PINK FLAMINGO
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 cups spinach
• 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
• 2 cups strawberries
• 1 cup chopped mango
GREEN MACHINE
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 cups spinach
• 2 cups water
• 1 avocado, peeled
• 1 cup chopped mango
• 1 banana
DIRECTIONS:
First, blend the spinach and almond milk in a blender until smooth. Then add the berries and mango and blend again until smooth.
DIRECTIONS: Place spinach and water in the blender and blend until smooth. Then add avocado, mango, and banana and blend again until smooth.
KALEFORNIA ENERGIZING
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 cups kale, stems removed
• 1 cup water
• 2 oranges peeled
• 1 cup chopped pineapple
• 1 cup chopped mango
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds (soak in water for 10 minutes)
DIRECTIONS:
Blend kale, chia water, and oranges until smooth. Add pineapple, mango and blend again.
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
This recipe is a classic favorite. If you cut the bars into 16 pieces, they are around 270 calories each. They are very filling, packed with healthy goodies and taste, oh so delicious. If you can’t finish them yourself (it makes a lot!), bring samples along to your next workout class to share the love. Your accountability group will be asking you for the recipe! These come in handy for a quick breakfast on-the-go or an afternoon snack. You’ll want to taste these out of the oven once they cool a bit... simply scrumptious.
Combine:
• 1 cup wheat flour
• 2 cups cooked quinoa, cooled
• 2 cups oats
• 2/3 cup of your choice of chopped nuts
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2/3 cup raisins
• Optional: chocolate chips as desired
• Optional: add additional seeds or nuts on hand such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc.
Notes: Boil quinoa at a 2:1 water to rice ratio. For estimating, 1/3 cup of uncooked quinoa yields 1 cup cooked quinoa.
Add this mixture slowly to combine:
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup peanut butter, almond butter or sunflower butter
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 banana
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes, or until when the edges get golden brown. Bake in a 9x13-inch glass dish. After they cool, slice and enjoy. Keep them covered to maintain freshness.
Quinoa BREAKFAST Bars
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
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
NOW THROUGH JANUARY 5TH
Play Zone
Crocker Park | 12:00 PM
Calling all kids. All new this year, step into the Play Zone presented by Cleveland Monsters and Winterhurst Ice Arena. Admission is FREE with this year featuring a fun sock slide, activity area with a variety of things to do provided by Sweet Kiddles Flexible Childcare of Westlake. Play Zone located across from World Market at 292 Main Street.
JANUARY 7TH
Luca West -Bourbon Dinner Pairing
24600 Detroit Rd, Westlake, OH | 5:00 PM
Enjoy a 4 course dinner paired with the different bourbons and a welcome drink. Reservations can be made through open table or the restaurant $200 inclusive of gratuity and tax. They also are offering just the food for $125 inclusive price.
JANUARY 14TH
Tuesday Evening Book Club
Westlake Porter Library | 12:00 PM
A striking and surprising debut novel from an exhilarating new voice, Such a Fun Age is a page-turning and big-hearted story about race and privilege. This meeting will be held IN PERSON and ON ZOOM. This book club meets every second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. Join us to discuss Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid: https://www.westlakelibrary.org/event/12266350
JANUARY 16TH
The Progressive Cleveland Boat Show
The I-X Center | 12:00 PM
The Cleveland Boat Show captures the local passion for all things maritime, offering an exciting blend of boats, personal watercraft, cutting-edge technology, and lifestyle exhibits. It’s more than just a boat show; it’s an immersive experience where attendees can explore a wide variety of watercraft. Featuring live entertainment, delicious local food, and family-friendly activities. https://clevelandboatshow.com/the-show/
JANUARY 25TH
The Brewsology
Beer Festival
Great Lakes Science Center | 7:00 PM
The Brewsology Beer Festival will take place at the Great Lakes Science Center for a one of a kind experience -- a night at the museum! The event will feature dozens of local and domestic breweries, sampling their seasonal beers. General admission 8pm to 11pm and Early Admission 7pm to 11pm. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2025-cleveland-brewsology-beer-fest-tickets-1021701204807
JANUARY 31ST
Hurst Remodeling - Cleveland Home and Garden Show
The I-X Center | 10:00 AM
Stop and see Hurst Remodeling at The Great Big Home + Garden Show. A vibrant marketplace where you can shop for home-related products and services, experience stunning displays to help inspire your next home project, connect with industry experts, and enjoy informative presentations from renowned local and international home professionals. https://www.greatbighomeandgarden.com/information
