NFDI Style Magazine | Winter 2023

New year, new me. I’ve never understood this sentence, nor have I ever been a fan of New Year’s Eve. I’ve tended to go with the “it’s just another day” attitude and carried on. I haven’t ever seen it as a significant moment in time whereby I drastically changed anything in my life.

This year however, was different. While it wasn’t an immediate lightning strike of change, ringing in the new year brought with it a sense of relief, new beginnings, and an excitement for change. I had a new frame of mind, resulting from a tumultuous 2022.

For me the biggest change going into 2023 is mindset. Not one particular focus area, rather a shift in overall intentionality. I saw a cartoon not long ago depicting the difference between being mindful, and mind-full. I can attest to having the latter, more often than not, so this resonated with me as something to stay honed in on. Having a full mind leaves little room for rest and rejuvenation, both of which I need more of.

One way I try to find rest at the end of the day is by taking a bath. It’s my little sanctuary of quiet time, solace, and unwinding from the day’s events. This is a ritual I couldn’t live without, and rarely do I crawl into bed without one. I find most people prefer showers over baths, however after this issue, perhaps you’ll be a convert, as there are so many benefits to bathing. Soak it up on pages 3539.

You’ll find the home tour of our Canmore Mountain Retreat project on pages 7-22 We’re so fortunate to live close to the mountains, a proximity I take for granted. I don’t get out to them as often as I’d like. Finding retreat in a space outside of our busy city lives is exactly what our clients found in Canmore. Nestled on the side of a mountain, this home was designed for family living, a place of rest and relaxation after a day of hitting the slopes and breathing in the mountain air

Rest, retreat and lastly reset. There’s something to be said for this trio of calm action words, as we move into a new year, another year older and hopefully wiser. Resetting our body and claiming the importance of taking care of it, is something top of my mind this year. I haven’t been kind to it as of late. Elaine Campbell from Joy Life Fitness is sharing tips with us on page 29 on how to reset our minds on exercise, and encourage us with simple ways to get into new habits. I love her approach and look forward to bringing more movement into my days!

Whatever this year brings us, the ups and downs, ins and outs of our days, may they be filled with light, love, and life - three things I also have my arms wide open for this year.

With gratitude,

xo,

Looking Forward

There is a stirring in my soul; a restless, wild anticipation.

I am staring out into the horizon, as far as I can.

I can’t see whats beyond it ---but I can feel it.

- Lang Leav

RETREAT

You start breathing a little differently on the highway driving towards the mountains. Not only are you leaving the bustle of the city behind you, you’re entering into majestic territory of mountain peaks, and sloping sides.

Family-living in the city is busy. Between school and activities, there’s no shortage of a “who’s on first?” Mentality as you move through the week. For an active family of six who love the mountains, and all they have to offer, this getaway is exactly that, a reprieve from the day to day, and a place to reconnect and relax.

We set out to create a comfortably casual, yet elevated and “put together” home through texture and layers. Bringing in natural materials and a neutral colour palette gives this open concept main floor a feeling of cohesivity and connectivity as you move from room to room.

Whether a weekend retreat, or an extended stay welcoming family and friends, this home away from home is inviting in all the ways!

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHELLE JOHNSON

INTERIOR DESIGN BY NYLA FREE DESIGNS INC.

The living room drops down from the dining area resulting in a vast wall and high ceilings behind the sectional. Large scale art pieces hung in a gallery wall format fill the space bringing an unexpected visual to the space.

We wanted our home to feel cozy and natural, with a crisp freshness.

“ ”

The living room was divided into three seating areas to make the most of the awkward shape. A pair of swivel chairs sit in front of the bay window, a chair and ottoman beside the fireplace, an oversized sectional along the wall, and a daybed bridging all three areas in the center. The layout celebrates conversation, entertaining, or post ski lounging, accommodating up to 12 people comfortably.

We were most surprised by the impact the window treatments had on the space. I didn’t understand their value until seeing them in person!

”

Go with the contractor your recommendsdesigner . They have previous experience with the contractor and have a working relationship - that goes a long way!

My words of advice to anyone embarking on a new project:

A fresh coat of paint was all this kitchen needed to go from dark and dreary to warm, bright and airy. The kitchen was painted in Escape Grey by Sherwin Williams, a soft green/grey colour bringing the outdoors in. The previous glass inset of the cabinets was replaced with a brass mesh inlay, offering visual interest and an unexpected design detail in the room.

Sherwin Williams City

Loft, a warm white, gives the kitchen nook a new lease on life. This area is the perfect perch to read, and have a quiet moment, while still feeling connected to activity in the kitchen.

With 4 daughters in ski racing, purchasing a home in Canmore was a given, to help make our lives and weekends as easy as possible!

The twin girls bedroom is a whimsical woodland of soft layers and textures, with views of mountain peaks out the window. Art prints of animals you’d find in the woods were the perfect addition to the space.

Our favourite room is probably the twins’ room; it’s so delicate and ethereal. I love it’s bohemian vibe with an “old world” twist

2023

DESIGN TRENDS

FROM HIGH POINT MARKET

High Point North Carolina is the largest furniture fair in North America, boasting the “what’s new and next” in the world of furniture and interiors. After attending the fall market last October, we returned home with all the intell and design details we’re keeping our eyes on. Whether you enjoy trends or not, it’s fair to say these ideas are worth keeping your eyes on, and consider infusing into your next project.

SCULPTURAL DETAILS

It’s all about the curves! Step outside the box and embrace the soft lines in furniture. Sculptural designs are sure making a statement, adding unexpected impact to a space, and artistic form of expression into contemporary or traditional design aesthetics.

It’s all about the mix! Combining a minimum of three different materials was a common theme in furniture design, elevating each piece with a layered look. A mix of materials adds depth and dimension, not only in and of itself, but also in a room.

2.MIXED MATERIALS

It’s all about the vibe! Influenced by far away lands, this design element is one that has staying power. Whether it’s items from your own travels, or inspired by others’, infusing artifacts and details with a global flavour adds personality and a story to your home design and decor.

GLOBAL INFLUENCE

FLANGE & FRINGE

It’s all about the details! Accents such as piping, flange, and eyelash fringe were everywhere, whether pillows, upholstery, or drapery. This subtle yet impactful detail was used as a contrast colour, coordinating texture, or tone on tone in the same fabric, and complemented each piece of furniture perfectly.

AREA CARPETS TRANSFORMED

It’s all about reinventing! While area carpets are typically found on the floor of a space, they were brought to new life by way of reupholstery and art. Consider chairs upholstered in vintage area carpets, offering a “one of a kind” allure. Carpets reincarnated as framed artwork were also an inspiring reinvention of use, and a fun twist. Whether on your floor, your wall, or used as upholstery, area carpets are getting a new lease on life.

it doesn’t have to be

so hard

WORDS BY ELAINE CAMPBELL

Happy New Year!

It’s that time of year that you feel like you need to set “New Years Goals” again. I’ll bet one or more of those goals have to do with your health and wellness? Maybe you need to lose some weight, look like that inspirational photo you’ve had collecting dust for years, or you just want to get fit and feel amazing. It feels like you’re doing everything you used to do, but for some reason what you’ve been doing just isn’t working anymore, and you are left feeling super frustrated. Your body just isn’t the same, it’s breaking down and something has to change! So you make these big massive resolutions because this is the year you are going to “Live your Best Life!”

You start that 30 day shred… AGAIN and cut out all sugar, alcohol, gluten, dairy, fun and joy. The first 2 weeks are tough but you’ve got this! By week 3 you haven’t seen any results AND the scale is up 2 pounds. WTH?! Week 4 you can’t make all of the commitments and you feel so deprived of everything good in life that you throw your hands up and say “this is not working, I give up!”

Sound familiar? I hear you and I hear this scenario all the time. What if I told you that it doesn’t have to be so hard? That you can set goals AND have a life too! That feeling your very best is accessible to you but that we need to fix a few mindsets first. Here is what I would tell you.

Your Goals Need to Have Meaning

This is where the real hard work begins. It’s time to re-evaluate what is really important to you. How do you see yourself today? Who do you want to be tomorrow? Setting tangible, meaningful goals based on these answers gives your goals more purpose. The outside is almost always a reflection of inside deeper and more meaningful work. Your purpose and “WHY” are the golden tickets that will keep you coming back each and every time.

SET UP A DAILY ROUTINE

Unless you live under a rock, you’ve probably heard that Rome wasn’t built in a day. True change takes time and CONSISTENCY. It takes showing up even when you don’t feel like it, because you are investing into your future. By setting up a routine that you can stick to and then STICK to it, you will win more than half of the battle. Keep your appointments to yourself in the gym for a weight session, plan your meals on time, plan your bedtime. Make your routine something that you will eventually look forward to and that works for YOU.

FOCUS ON THE

CANS

AND NOT THE

CAN-NOTS

Add those nutrient dense foods into your daily meals instead of listing ALL the things you aren’t allowing yourself to eat. Have you ever focused so much on the bad things that it is literally ALL you want? Try to start off with loading your plate up with all of the things that ADD to your health and energy, like proteins, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, REAL food first. You can have treats in moderation if you want to, but chances are once you have taken the power of the “can’t” away, you may think twice about it.

GET MOVING!

No I’m not just talking about the gym where we need to lift those heavy weights. I’m talking about the time outside of the gym. Things like walking your dog, taking the stairs, cleaning your house, carrying your groceries and getting off of your office chair. That daily movement means almost more than the 45 min gym session. If you have a desk job, plan standing and walking breaks. Make movement part of your lifestyle. It makes a very big difference in your overall health and the amount of calories your body burns in a day.

get those zzz ' s in!

This is where you have my permission to throw away all of the bad advice from self-proclaimed life coaches who tell you sleep is for the weak. That couldn’t be more untrue. You literally need sleep in order to build muscle, stabilize hormones, lose weight (that’s right!), strengthen your immune system, keep your brain healthy …. I could go on and on. Sleep is THE most powerful tool you have for the ultimate health and highest wellness. Get that night time routine nailed down and protect your sleep time. The average adult needs 7-9 hours nightly for optimal results.

Your health and wellness journey is just that…. A JOURNEY. You can restart each and every day if you need to. Give yourself and your family the gift of feeling your absolute best and living with vitality this year and each year after that. Start today and then just keep going. Imagine where you could be this time next year?

and how to Choo s e the Best One 3 Types of Bathtubs

while a shower would likely overrule a bathtub, depending on the space, style, and simply whether or not you love bathing, tubs are certainly part of the planning process when designing a bathroom.

From principal bathrooms to basement suites, bathtubs, not only serve a purpose, but look great too. Whatever your reason to include a tub in a bathroom, here are three types of bathtubs, along with some top tips to consider during the planning process.

DROP IN SKIRTED

DROP IN SKIRTED

THINGS TO CONSIDER:

• installation is either a single unit wall to wall, or the tub would be dropped into a slab frame or surround.

• the focus is less on the tub, and more on the surrounding materials; for example: face of tub, wall tile, deck of tub.

• tile is not required to the ceiling, providing possible budget to splurge on the surrounding materials.

• tub filler is deck mounted within the surround, or within the wall.

• overall cost can be dependant on what the surround material is, ie: tile vs. stone slab.

• a great option in a master suite where there is a separate shower as this can also be a great focal point in the room.

DEPENDING ON THE SPACE AND DESIGN OF THE BATHROOM, A SKIRTED, DROP IN STYLE TUB MAY BE IDEAL .

THINGS TO CONSIDER:

• a tub | shower combination is common in smaller bathrooms as well as secondary/ guest bathrooms.

• can be a more cost effective option.

• a shower curtain or partial glass partition (shown above) is required.

• tub filler and shower head are typically wall mounted.

• a steam shower is not compatible with this scenario.

• it is necessary to tile all walls to the ceiling (and possibly the ceiling as well), resulting in more square footage required, therefore considering a more cost effective selection of tile would ease the wallet.

TUB SHOWER COMBO TUB SHOWER COMBO

ARGUABLY THE MOST COMMON IN HOMES TODAY, ALBEIT DEPENDANT ON SPACE, AND WHETHER A BATHTUB IS EVEN DESIRED. WHILE WE’RE SEEING A SHIFT IN PREFERENCE FOR SHOWERS OVER TUBS, A COMBINATION APPROACH IS STILL A GREAT IDEA.

FREESTANDING FREESTANDING

• a freestanding tub is a statement piece in an ensuite bathroom.

• great feature for resale, increasing the value of the home.

• range in price from $$ to $$$$$, so selecting a tub based on personal preference is important.

• acrylic retains heat, is easy to clean, and should a crack or chip happen, is easy to repair.

• cast iron is heavy, and will require additional support, retains heat well, is easy to clean, however chips or cracks are harder to repair.

• requires a floor or deck mounted tub filler depending on the specifics of the tub.

COMMON IN PRINCIPAL BATHROOMS AND ENSUITES. WHETHER YOU’RE A TUB USER OR NOT, FREESTANDING TUBS ARE A BEAUTIFUL ADDITION TO A BATHROOM, IF YOU HAVE THE SPACE. THINGS TO CONSIDER:

S OAKITUP

Bathing is an experience I enjoy almost every day. I can’t go to sleep cold, so warming up at the end of the day is a must, especially in the winter. (I can’t fall asleep with cold feet!) In addition to warming up, it’s also a little ‘me’ time to unwind and relax after the day’s events.

I try hard not to bring my phone into the tub, unless I want to watch a show or do a crossword or two. However I do use this time to catch up on saved articles on my phone. I’ve also been known to do a little work, GASP! That being said, flipping through a magazine or reading a few pages of a book is also a go-to, but I find I fall asleep easily while reading. With the warmth of the water, and relaxed feel, I’m sure to end up with a submerged book. Not ideal!

On top of the mental and emotional benefits, there are several physical advantages to bathing:

• Causes your heart to beat faster providing you a healthy workout.

• Increases lung capacity and oxygen intake.

• Kills bacteria and improves immunity.

• Relieves symptoms of cold and flu.

• Ensures hydration in all aspects - enhance this experience with oils or salts.

• Regulates your body temperature if you’re feeling cold.

Relaxation

Candles and music are sure to set the mood for a relaxing bath. Include a book, fresh flowers, and your favorite bath salts or bubbles to elevate your experience.

TIP: Extend your experience and add benefit by locking in moisture with body lotion or oils.

Whatever you’re in the mood for, go ahead and indulge! Watch your favourite show, do a face mask, journal, or heck!, all of the above, taking this time to focus on you is a great way to get the most out of your bath.

BATH GEL Chanel

ROSE HAIR & BODY OIL OUAI

GUA SHA Sephora

NOTE:

One of my favourite times to have a bath is in the middle of the day. This definitely falls under the selfcare category, and is a little self indulgent. I love it!

Cleansing

Rather than shower, I often opt to take a quick bath to rinse off. Keep a beautiful bar of soap, a loofa, wash cloth, and any cleansers beside your tub so they’re easily accessible.

TIP:

Be sure to rinse out your bathtub after bathing. It’ll help reduce residue buildup from bath oils and salts.

Enhance

Most refilleries will have bulk dried goods to purchase as much as you’d like. Keeping an assortment means you can customize your blend depending on your needs and mood. While the options are endless, we put together three common combinations, and highlight the benefits they offer.

Place 1 heaping tbsp of each herb and dried floral combination in a tea bag. Cinch tight. Much like brewing a cup of tea, it’s as simple as running a hot tub and adding your tea bag to the water.

alush yet raw retreat in a land of ruins, is how I would describe this tropical destination. The history, unmanicured landscape, and miles of beaches bring a charm to this oceanside town in Mexico. Here you’ll find a contrast between bold colour and shades of grey, breezy palms, and heavy stone; a beautiful juxtaposition of architecture and culture. Welcome to Tulum.

TULUM

HOTEL

RESORT AIRBNB

We rented an airbnb just outside of Tulum. It wasn’t overly walkable so we hired a driver to help us get around - best decision ever! It was nice to come home to a house at the end of our daily excursions and our driver took us to a grocery store so we could stock up on some essentials to have on hand

As Tulum is within two hours of Cancun, there are many resorts in close proximity. Most resorts will have transportation to the many ruins, cenotes, as well as Tulum Beach Road should you wish to explore the area during a day trip.

If you stay along Tulum Beach Road, you’ll have your pick of hotels. This area is lively and full of energy, day and night. Here you’ll also find boutique stores and restaurants, most within walking, or biking distance.

An outdoor eatery in a residential area that highlights Mexican flavours, honours tradition, and integrates Mayan culture into the preparation of cultural dishes, street snacks, and signature drinks. The atmosphere is relaxed and bohemian. Don’t skip dessert - a cacao tamale!

LA ZEBRA

A luxurious beachfront hotel. Ground floor rooms have plunge pools. The spa invites you to unwind with a massage, or hot stone or crystal therapy. You can also book a number of intriguing tours or experiences, including a “mystic” Mayan Temazcal ceremony.

The open air restaurant and bar at La Zebra is one of the top restaurants in Tulum, offering authentic Mexican cuisine crafted from scratch using locally sourced ingredients. For a special celebration, book the chef’s table, which offers an 8 course tasting menu + drink pairings, and a view of the kitchen.

EAT

CHICHEN ITZA

The ancient Mayan metropolis of Chichen Itza is one of the 7 World Wonders. It is 2 hours away from Tulum, and is a huge site, so plan on allowing at least a day to visit. The city was built between 400 and 600 AD, and features several different architectural styles. It takes its name from a nearby cenote. The monuments were astronomically aligned, and were home to sacrifices and death penalties. The iconic main step-pyramid, El Castilo, or the Temple of Kukulcan, is 30 meters high, and contains two smaller pyramids within it. There are 365 steps, 91 on each side, and it functioned as a calendar. It was constructed so that twice a year, at the equinoxes, the sun forms the shadow of a serpent descending the steps. When you clap your hands at the bottom of the steps, the echo sounds like birds. El Castilo has been closed to climbing since 2006. Some other monuments of note include the Great Ball Court, site of deadly games, the Temple of Warriors, and El Caracol, an observatory. Chichen Itza was mysteriously abandoned in the 14th century, likely due to drought.

SEE MAYAN RUINS

An ancient Mayan city is situated on the limestone cliffs above the Caribbean Sea. It was one of the last cities built by the Maya (construction began around 580 AD), and was inhabited by them until the end of the 16th century, when they were wiped out by disease brought there by Europeans during the Spanish expedition. After that the city fell into ruins. In contrast to other Mayan ruins sites, Tulum is tiny. It was a religious and ceremonial center, rather than a population center. 2 hours is enough time to view all the ruins at Tulum. Some of the structures include:

EL CASTILO (the castle)

Tulum’s main pyramid (not to be confused with El Castilo at Chichen Itza) functioned as a lighthouse.

TEMPLE OF THE FRESCOES

In order to preserve the murals that retain their original colours, visitors are no longer allowed inside.

TEMPLE OF THE DESCENDING GOD

There is a relief of the upside-down falling male god above the door.

TEMPLE OF THE WIND

A hole at the top produces a whistling sound when the wind blows, functioning as an early hurricane or storm warning, allowing the citizens to seek shelter inland.

SEE CENOTES

Cenotes (seh-No-tay) are sinkholes that formed in the porous limestone when underground caves collapsed on themselves and filled with fresh groundwater. There are thousands in the Yucatan Peninsula. They provided the Mayans with a source of drinking water, however drinking the water now is not advised. The Mayans also viewed them as the entrance to the underworld. They are small and deep. The water is relatively cold, with an average temperature of 77 degrees F. For an entrance fee you can swim, dive, snorkel and cliff jump in them.

DO TULUM BEACH ROAD

A very scenic, narrow, 2-lane 10.5 KM paved road that is one of the highlights of Tulum. It begins at the Mayan ruins, and terminates at Sian Ka’an Biosphere. The Caribbean Sea is on one side, and jungle, cenotes, cabana resorts, boutique shops, restaurants and bars are on the other. Pedestrian and bike friendly, if you are driving you need to drive slowly, as many share the road.

WORDS BY KERSTIN DALY

DID YOU KNOW

• Tulum is a beach town on the east coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. It is 120 km or an 1.5 hour drive from Cancun, where the nearest airport is located. Tulum features breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea, and is known for its accessible white sand beaches where you can swim in the turquoise water. It is home to several species of endangered sea turtles, and all sorts of wildlife. The ruins of an ancient Mayan walled port city are located on the cliffs above the sea.

• Tulum’s original name was Zama, which translates to “sunrise” or “City of Dawn”.

• The name Tulum came from Frederick Catherwood and John Lloyd Stephens, who discovered the ruins in 1841. It means “wall” or “fence”. This fortified city is one of the few walled cities built by the Maya. It is bordered by walls on three sides, and the sea on the fourth. The wall is 5 meters high, 8 meters thick, and 400 meters long.

• Jade, obsidian, gold, textiles, salt, copper, feathers, turquoise, corn, cacao, and honey are some of the items that were traded through this port.

• Tulum was home to an ancient school of astronomy.

• The temples were originally painted bright blue and red.

• Tulum is hot and humid, with an average temperature of around 30 degrees C. Make sure to bring water, a hat, sunscreen, and also comfortable walking shoes.

• Spanish Mexican is the official language.

• The proliferation of street art and murals is the result of the 2014 Tulum Art Project.

Spring Issue Coming March

Elaine is a personal trainer, nutrition coach and holistic health specialist from Calgary, AB. She is passionate about empowering people to find their JOY through movement and the practice of positive self awareness.

STAY CONNECTED WITH ELAINE! www.joylifefitnessnutrition.com

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