Vitality Magazine by Pulse Magazine

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Summertime around the Woo

Contents

• Vo lum e 46 • June / Jul y 2015

Cover Story 4

Summertime around the Woo

Entertainment & Culture 8

No Evil Project – Making an impact one photo at a time 9 You’ll love Pimentel’s Love by the Book 10 The Gentle Storm – The Diary

Health & Fitness: Yoga: The world’s most flexible workout 18 Technology: Technology takes the work out of cleaning 20 For the grandkids

ParentCare 22 23

Keep important records in order Caregiving Now: Proper nutrition can treat common vision problems

Lifestyle

Dining & Entertaining

Community: RSVP to volunteer opportunities 13 Home & Garden: Gardening tips and tricks for green thumbs 14 Home & Garden: Brimfield becomes a summer haven for antique lovers 16 Health & Fitness: Have your best staycation ever

Dining Review: Urban presents dishes with flavor and flair At the Wormtown Brewery, you can always be hoppy

Style & Beauty

Paul Giorgio Publisher Donna Roberson Sr. Editor Vanessa Herbold Art Director, Webmaster Chris Reddy Kerry Cyganiewicz Account Managers Kim Dunbar Bernard Whitmore Paul Collins Amy Dean Richard Morchoe Tricia Wise Jenn Russo Rachel Shuster Tom McDavitt

Contributing Writers

These products will keep summer beautiful

Vitality is produced 6 times a year by Pagio Inc., 88 Winter St., Worcester, MA 01604. (508)756-5006. Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Pagio, Inc. does not hold itself responsible for statements made by any contributor. Statements or opinions expressed in Vitality reflect the views of the author(s) and not the official policy of the Pagio, Inc., unless so stated. Although all advertising material is expected to conform to ethical standards, acceptance does not imply endorsement by Pagio, Inc. unless so stated. Material printed in Vitality is covered by copyright. No copyright is claimed to any work of the U.S. government. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without written permission. For more on permissions, reprints and other services, contact Pagio, Inc. Also by Pagio Inc.: Pulse Magazine, Worcester Medicine, TasteWorcester.com, Thepulsemag.com, Thevitalitymag.com

C OVER ST O RY

Summertime around the Woo By Tricia Wise The summer is just heating up, and it’s about to get a lot hotter. Don’t worry about being stuck in the house; with these cool events, you can soak up the summer sun! Grab your sunscreen and hit the streets of Worcester!

JUNE 2015 Food Truck Tour

The fourth annual Worcester Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival is once again coming to the Woo! Spend an afternoon sampling everything from Vietnamese sandwiches to lobster rolls to duck tacos. Samuel Adams is a title sponsor and will be selling a variety of its popular and specialty beers. If you purchase the VIP ticket, you receive early access to the festival (no lines), unlimited non-alcoholic Polar beverages and a free dessert. Saturday, June 20, at Elm Park, Worcester. VIP hour is 11 a.m.-noon; general admission is noon-5 p.m. VIP tickets are $20; general admission is $5.For more information or to purchase tickets, visit foodtruckfestivalsofamerica.com.

Taste of Shrewsbury Street

With more than 30 restaurants and pubs participating, the 15th annual Taste of Shrewsbury Street is a great way to sample the cuisines Shrewsbury Street offers. Grab a button and walk Worcester’s Restaurant Row while enjoying live entertainment! 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 23, on Shrewsbury Street, Worcester. $25 for a button. For more information, visit shrewsburystreet.org/taste-of-shrewsbury-st.

Paulie’s NOLA Jazz & Blues Festival

It’s time to jazz up the city. Go to Paulie’s New Orleans Jazz & Blues Festival in Worcester’s Canal District and spend three days listening to tunes and munching on some great local food and drinks. Bring your own chairs and blankets. 7 p.m.-midnight Friday, June 26; noon-midnight, Saturday, June 27; and noon-9:30 p.m. Sunday, June 28. Prices vary. Tickets at the door are an additional $5. 152 Green St., Worcester. Visit baevents.com/pauliesnolabluesandjazzfestival/ index.html for more information.

Asian Festival

The Southeast Asian Coalition of Central Massachusetts is hosting the annual Asian Festival to share Asian heritage with the city of Worcester. There will be cultural performances, food and music. Noon-7 p.m. Sunday, June 28, at the Italian American Cultural Center at 28 Mulberry St., Worcester. Visit seacma.org/asian-festival.html for more information.

JULY

Cars of Summer Super Show

Interested in cars or just want a new adventure? Head down to Green Hill Park on Fourth of July weekend for the Cars of Summer Super Show, with more than 1,000 classic and custom vehicles, not to mention vendors, food, live music, canoe rides, bounce houses, a kids’ zone and much more! Marissa Brown, one of the organizers, said, “This year, we are doing something different; we are partnering up with some area pet shelters this year to do on-site adoptions. We have partnered up with the Massachusetts Audubon Society for free canoe and paddleboat rides; we will have on display the new 2015 Dodge Challenger Hellcat; we have added a racing/NASCAR area this year with racing vehicles on display; and we will have four live bands playing on Friday and Saturday. Saturday night we will have a block party with a DJ.” July 3-5; 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday , 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday, and 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday at Green Hill Park on Green Hill Parkway, Worcester. Three-day pass is $25; one-day pass is $10 at the gate. Show car and camping pass is $80. Register at carsofsummer.com.

Big Dipper All-You-Can-Eat Ice Cream Festival

In addition to all-you-can-eat ice cream, there will be Moonwalks and other games, face-painting, a food tent, clowns, raffles and all-day entertainment. Debbie Huegal, the director of marketing and development at Children’s Friend, said, “The Big Dipper not only creates a great opportunity for family fun, but the money it raises supports the critical services that Children’s Friend provides to children and families throughout Central Massachusetts.” From 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Saturday, July 18, at Worcester’s Elm Park on the Russell Street side. Rain or shine. $5 for ages 10 and older. $2 for ages 4-9. Free for ages 3 and younger. All money goes to Children’s Friend.

Shrewsbury Street Walk and Rock

Enjoy a variety of live music and great food on Shrewsbury Street on selected Thursday evenings in July. With 10 venues, this free event allows you to connect with local music and local cuisine for one great evening. Walk Shrewsbury Street and catch local bands playing live at area restaurants. 7 p.m. select Thursdays in July on Shrewsbury Street. Free. Shrewsburystreet.org/walkrock.htm.

Hot Night in the City

If you like it hot, then head down to Worcester Center for Crafts for an outdoor event with fresh food, fiery crafts, live music from the Jubilee Gardens and cool art. Executive Director Honee Hess said, “Hot Night gives us the opportunity to literally turn ourselves inside out in order to tell the community thank you for being partners with us.” 6-9 p.m. Friday, July 24, at Worcester Center for Crafts, 25 Sagamore Road, Worcester. Free. For more information, visit worcestercraftcenter.org.

AUGUST Slide the City Need to cool off from the hot summer sun? Well, Slide the City is coming to Worcester! So grab your bathing suit and head down to a (soon to be determined) street in Worcester for a 1,000-foot slip and slide, as well as music, dancing, food and drinks. Saturday, Aug.1, Time and street TBD. Prices vary. For more information, visit slidethecity.com.

Country MusicFest Head to Wachusett Mountain for some good country fun. Listen to great local and national country performers while enjoying good food, beer and vendors. Don’t forget your lawn chair! Saturday, Aug.15, at Wachusett Mountain. Find more information at wachusett.com.

Latin American Festival Come enjoy the 2015 Latin American Festival. There will be nonstop music and dancing, information, vendors, children’s tent, crafts tent, beer/wine garden and a ton of Latin food. Noon-9 p.m. Saturday, Aug.15, at the Worcester Common. Free. For more information, visit worcesterlatinfestival.com.

Farm Fresh Festival It’s time to celebrate Massachusetts’ agricultural community! Enjoy a huge farmer’s market, crafts, wine sampling, cooking demonstrations and petting zoo, all while listening to some bluegrass. Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 29-30, at Wachusett Mountain. Check out wachusett.com for more details.

Worcester Caribbean Carnival The Worcester Caribbean American Carnival Association will host its annual Caribbean Carnival Day this August. There will be Caribbean food, performances, music and more! Sunday, Aug. 30, at noon at Institute Park. Parade begins at 1:30 p.m. at 305 Chandler St. Visit worcestercarib.com for more information.

ALL SUMMER Wild Music – Sounds and Songs of Life

A traveling exhibition, Wild Music is coming to the EcoTarium. Built with ecologically green materials, this 4,000-squarefoot exhibition explores the biological origins of music through an interactive sound experience. May 30-Sept.6 at the EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. Visit wildmusic.org or ecotarium.org for more information.

Art in the Park

Feeling artsy? Stop by Art in the Park, an exhibition in of sculptures by New England artists. It features tours with the artist, music and activities. There are 23 pieces by 19 artists that were selected by the jurors – professor and sculptor Amy Podmore, curator Susan Cross and environmental sculptor Steven Siegel. Exhibit opens June 14 with a reception from 3-7 p.m. and is open through Oct. 11 at Elm Park in Worcester. For more information, visit artintheparkworcester.org/ AIPW_home.html.

Out to Lunch Summer Concert Series and Farmer’s Market

With a concert series, famer’s market and food vendors all in one, the Out to Lunch Series is the perfect way to get some sun on a summer afternoon. Come and listen to some great tunes! Every Thursday on the Worcester Commons from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., from June 18-Aug.20. Visit facebook.com/pages/Worcester-Common-Oval/370921459652272 for more information.

Worcester Newton Square Summer Concert Series

Since 2003, the Newton Square Summer Concerts have been rocking the square. Brittany Legasey, marketer for the series, said, “We’ve featured almost every type of music from rock to blues to swing jazz.” Blue Jeans Pizza, the longtime sponsor, sells pizza and drinks. In August, 5K races hosted by Central Mass Striders take place at the same time as the concerts, starting and ending at Newton Square after touring around Newton Hill. Tuesday nights at 6:30 at Newton Square. Tentative dates are June 30-Aug.11. Free. For more information, visit friendsofnewtonhill.org.

Park Spirit Elm Park Concert Series

Head down to Elm Park to hear some good tunes for the annual Park Spirit Elm Park Concert Series! Brittany Legasey, of Park Spirit, said, “Last year was a landmark year for us with the Elm Park Concert Series, as we averaged about 2,000 people a night, so in total, we entertained more than 10,000 by late August.” 6:30 p.m. Thursdays from July 9-Aug. 12 in Elm Park. Free. For more information, visit parkspirit.org.

Third Thursdays on the Common

A collaboration between Worcester Film Works and Las Mariposas Productions, Third Thursdays on the Common include a movie on the common the third Thursday of each summer month, a food truck park, music and a beer and wine garden. Begins at 6 p.m. for food and music; movie begins at sundown on the Worcester Common Oval, 455 Main St., Worcester. Free. Visit worcesterfilmworks.org.

Indian Ranch Summer Concert Series

Back for its 68th concert season, Indian Ranch will host a slew of exciting concerts and events this summer. This year, the series will feature Huey Lewis and the News, Dwight Yoakam, Montgomery Gentry, Three Dog Night and many more acts. Days, times and ticket prices vary throughout June, July and August. 200 Gore Road, Webster. Visit indianranch.com.

entertai n m e n t & c u lt u re – A R T “This generation is extremely self-aware, but not necessarily aware of where other people identify. It’s more than a lesson in tolerance. People should not feel the need to hide behind their labels.” – Troy Thompson

No Evil Project – Making an impact one photo at a time By Jennifer Russo When Troy Thompson set out to make a statement, he had no idea just what a huge impact he would make in the community – and it all started with a picture. Nearly everyone is familiar with the See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil monkeys. Troy took that idea and began photographing people in the three monkey poses. Then, he amped it up by asking his subjects to choose for themselves three labels of who and what they believe they are. Choices can be anything from a racial term to a job, a religion to a character trait, and more. These labels are placed under the photos, causing the audience to see beyond the limitations of what it expects those labels to mean. It is an experiment in growth and identity, and it is making a change for the better. “It’s about difference … and being OK with difference. This world should not be a melting pot, where everyone assimilates into one identity. Our differences are what make us unique individuals, and they should be celebrated. People should not be afraid of those differences. It shouldn’t be the case where someone hears the term ‘Muslim’ and automatically associates it with violence, but that is what has happened. How do we change that? The labels themselves are neutral,” Thompson said.

extremely self-aware, but not necessarily aware of where other people identify. It’s more than a lesson in tolerance. People should not feel the need to hide behind their labels,” Thompson said. Understanding that a label is a word and that the word is not “evil” is a feat in a society filled with stereotypes and pressure to be “politically correct,” where people have become afraid to embrace the beauty of our differences. Thompson said, for example, people are often hesitant to call his wife “black,” even though it is a label that she would use to describe herself. Breaking down these stereotypes is one of the biggest things that the No Evil Project accomplishes. When people can openly choose the words that define them, regardless of what stereotype may be associated with that label, we have taken a step forward. When people can look at the labels people choose to define themselves and not feel shocked or amazed, we have taken a giant leap. The project starts conversations. Not only are the subjects in the photos asked to assign labels to themselves, they are also asked to note a good deed they have done or how they contribute to society. This way, others can see that people can do good in many different ways, no matter what their labels.

Lately, Thompson has been asked to take the idea for this project to classrooms, most recently at Worcester’s own North High School. Asking the students to participate in the photos or stand in certain parts of the room if they identify with certain labels has proven an excellent point and may even be a turning point in the anti-bullying campaign.

The project began in 2011. Since that time, it has grown exponentially, and the original goal (hanging a collage with 250 people) has not only come to fruition, but has gone far above and beyond that number. On April 30, the opening reception for Thompson’s newest exhibit took place, featuring nearly 1,500 subjects on 91 banners in the No Evil Project’s photo display at the Denholm Building.

“Students see their good friends acknowledging labels on the other side of the room, and it surprises them. They see people they may have judged one way identifying with something that they have in common. This generation is

Previous and existing exhibits include the Hanover Theatre, Dean College, Nichols College and Wachusett Regional High School. To learn more about and participate in the No Evil Project, visit noevilproject.com or facebook.com/noevilproject.

entertainment & culture – BOOKS

You’ll

love Pimentel’s Love by the Book By Kimberly Dunbar Dating sucks. Whether you prefer to scout out your next lover in a sticky, smelly bar or surf potential mates on the Internet under the guise of anonymity, things can get awkward. Really awkward. Especially if you don’t know the rules. If you’re looking for a good laugh about dating, run – don’t walk – and pick up Melissa Pimentel’s Love by the Book.

Love by the Book is available on Amazon and other online booksellers.

In an attempt to understand what it takes to snag a man, Lauren Cunningham – a 28-year-old ex-pat living in London – decides to dedicate the next year to researching the rules of the dating game. With a failed marriage in her rearview mirror and cursed when it comes to dating, Lauren sets out to follow one dating guide a month to discover what it really takes to catch Mr. Right. Lauren follows such books as The Art of Dating, Find a Husband After 35, and The Rules of the Game – all books published to help single women find their match.

What ensues is a collection of hilarious dating encounters – failures would be an understatement – to which most readers might be able to relate. You’ll laugh, maybe cry (from laughing so hard), and you’ll wince, remembering your own bad dating experiences. Some of the gems she meets include a billionaire-turned-street-meat-vendor (his pickled shark wasn’t enough to make Lauren stay); a 41-year-old bike mechanic and pothead who lives in his friend’s attic; and a bookseller who hassles Lauren every time she buys another one of the useless dating guides. She tackles dating from all angles; she follows advice from the Victorian era, commits herself to celibacy, approaches relationships as business deals and even dabbles in the online dating game. But will she find love and happiness like the authors promise? You’ll have to read and find out. The best part of Pimentel’s Love by the Book is that it’s loosely based on reality. Pimentel started the same dating experiment as the fictional Lauren, intending to publish the results as a memoir. However, a few months into the adventure she ended up meeting her future husband. Unable to continue the experiment, Pimentel decided to turn her experiences into a work of fiction. This turn of events actually works out for the best, as Pimentel was able to take more creative liberties with Lauren’s dating and sex life, even incorporating the dating horror stories of her friends. However, this didn’t stop me from wondering which one of her targets ended up being The One.

ENTER TA INM E N T & C ULTU RE – MU S I C

The Gentle Storm – The Diary sounds (piano, violin, French horn, etc.), and the Storm disc holds the same songs with a more rocked-out kick (electric guitar, heavy rhythm). I can’t imagine how much work went into recording each of the 11 songs twice, but what a gift for the listeners. The Gentle Storm takes two of

Holland’s

musicians,

most

famed

composer

multi-instrument

and

musician

Arjen Lucassen and vocalist Anneke van Giersbergen, and puts them together so they complement each other every step of the way and do not outshine one another. Each song is beautifully balanced. On the Gentle album, “Endless Learn more about The Gentle Storm at arjenlucassen.com and annekevangiersbergen.com.

Sea” is my clear favorite. The instrumental almost has an

By Jennifer Russo When an album opens with sounds of a storm, Gregorian chanting and a layering of varied instruments, I am hooked immediately. There is just something about that gothic sound that just makes my ears perk up. Add a

Arabian feel, with visions of a caravan crossing the desert. On the Storm album, “The Moment” left me speechless, with music and vocals that are staggeringly beautiful. “New Horizons” is the track that I think would be the most mainstream, and I use that term loosely because

beautiful soprano voice, and hello … ready for full album

there is nothing mainstream about this album at all. It is

listening.

for the listener who truly appreciates music in all of its glory. With the use of more than 40 instruments across

What makes this album completely unique is its two-

the album, it’s a true music-lover’s album. Brilliant is the

albums-in-one style. The Gentle disc is full of orchestral

word that encompasses my attitude towards this one.

li festy l e – com mu ni ty

RSVP to volunteer opportunities By Paul Collins Volunteering and giving one’s time to help others is as American as baseball and apple pie. The spirit of reaching out and extending ourselves for the greater good is ingrained in us, and it is a thread that runs deeply through the fabric of the American culture. We are a society that cares for, and looks after, each other. The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) in Worcester stands as a tangible proof of this core American value. Launched nationally in 1971, RSVP helps to meet the needs of communities that are working with limited resources while assisting senior citizens in remaining active, productive and physically and mentally healthy. RSVP is designed to enlist senior citizens, age 55 and older, in positions of community service wherever they can be helpful and coordinates local senior volunteers to help nonprofit agencies. And helpful they are, for what is crystal clear is that these volunteers are indeed angels among us. They make a positive difference in the lives of others without asking for anything in return. Our nation is on the cusp of one of the most dramatic and sweeping demographic shifts in our history. Projections show that a staggering 72 million people will be 65 or older by the year 2030. Think about it: That’s only 15 years from now. As it stands today, baby boomers are turning 60 at the mindboggling rate of 250,000 people per month. The ranks of America’s senior citizens are swelling rapidly.

in the form of senior volunteers like RSVP-Worcester’s Rita Sullivan, who lights a candle that makes the darkness retreat a bit. Sullivan, the proud mother of a physician, was born and raised in Fall River and has lived in Millbury since 1968. She is that special senior who dedicates herself to helping other seniors who are in need of a friendly face, a warm smile and a helping hand. In speaking with her about her RSVP work, the enthusiasm in her voice is palpable, as her volunteering is much more a labor of love than it is work. Of her mission she said, “My key role is to help fill the volunteer needs at over 70 nonprofits where RSVP places volunteers. We connect people with opportunities to serve.” A key personal goal for Sullivan is “to make a real difference locally and to assist nonprofits by going to senior centers and talking to people and trying to make them more savvy. You can’t replace what volunteers lend to an organization, and the more you give, the more you get.” This genuine passion to help others percolates to the surface when Sullivan speaks, as she has the eyes to see the need and the will to make a difference. “Every senior has a story to tell, and you find all kinds of people here. You have retired engineers, former doctors and police officers.” Sullivan added that “RSVP is a one-stop shopping connector organization that helps adults who are at least 55 years young find worthwhile volunteer opportunities throughout Worcester county.”

For many people, the reality of the “golden years” is so distant Sullivan’s advice to those who might consider volunteering from the cozy image of tanned golf cart-driving seniors heading their own time is: “Do it! Enjoy all the health benefits that come to lunch at the country club along with serving. I can personally tell you Florida’s Gulf Coast. For most people, that you feel better when you are For more information, call (508) 791-RSVP, aging is a complex – sometimes making a difference.” email info@rsvpworcester.org or visit frightening – journey into the unknown. rsvpworcester.org. The encouraging news is that there is Paul Collins is a freelance writer from some light to be found, and it comes Southborough.

Gardening tips & tricks for green thumbs

l if esty l e – home & garden

By Rachel Shuster Sun? Warm temperatures? Summer … is that you? Yes! Say “bye-bye” to hunkering down indoors away from the cold and say “hello” to warmth and sunshine! Along with fun activities like days at the beach, bike rides and picnics, the warm weather also allows green thumb enthusiasts to do what they love most – gardening! Whether you’re a novice or expert gardener, it’s always a soothing and rewarding activity. So we’ve got some helpful tips, suggestions, tricks and ideas for those of you who may be gardening for the first time and for experienced gardeners looking to change up their normal regime. Get the right tools Get these essentials: forks and spades, a rake, a hand trowel, pruners, a Dutch hoe, a pruning saw, shears, a lawn mower, a garden hose, a wheelbarrow, a hori hori knife, loppers and an edger. It all starts with the soil Work in compost (a mixture of yard and household organic waste), manure or dried peat moss for nutrient-rich planting beds. Dry herbs fast Lay a piece of newspaper on a seat in your car, then lay the herbs on the newspaper in a single layer, roll up the windows and close the doors. Your herbs will dry in no time! Plus, your car will smell amazing. Mulch is your friend Add fresh mulch to your gardens every year. A 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch keeps weeds away and helps the soil retain water, so you’ll be weeding and watering less. Stay native Buy varieties of plants that are native to your area. They’ll flourish with little care and are likely to be the best-looking plants in your garden! Watch your water usage Over watering is worse than not watering enough. It’s much easier to revive a dry plant than to dry out drowning roots. Diapers aren’t just for babies. Place one in the bottom of a potted plant to help it retain moisture for longer.

Keep pests away The best way to keep pests at bay is to grow healthy, disease-free plants that are more difficult for bugs to target and can withstand occasional attacks. Other tactics include: 1. Attract pests’ natural predators to your garden. 2. Spread crushed eggshells beneath targeted plants to keep pests like slugs, snails and caterpillars away. 3. Aromatic herbs like mint, fennel and basil are natural deterrents for some garden pests. Plant some! 4. Put flour, salt or beer down, all of which are safe for humans but toxic to many insects. Keep your fingernails clean Draw your fingernails across a bar of soap so dirt can’t make its way under them. Once you’ve finished in the garden, remove the soap and see nothing but clean, sparkling nails! Plan your planting Through planting techniques like vertical cropping, succession planting and intercropping, you can maximize the space you have in your garden. While there are many other gardening tips and tricks, these are a few to help you get started and/or keep your garden prospering. Happy gardening!

li festy l e – h o me & gar d e n

Brimfield becomes a summer haven for antique lovers By Richard Morchoe At first glance, Brimfield appears to be just another picturesque New England town. There is a common in the center. The old town hall is a distinctive, salmon-painted structure. The venerable Hitchcock Free Academy is no longer a school but serves the town as community center. It has the usual Cumbies and that outlet of Hellenic culture, a House of Pizza. Other than the usual, not much to see here. That is until spring and summer, when the circus comes to town, metaphorically speaking. There are not three rings under a big top, but tents as far as the eye can see. Each one has inventory from the sublime to the ridiculous. Never have the words “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” had more meaning. You are not in another dimension. You are at the Brimfield Antique Shows. Prepare to be jostled within an inch of your life. Normally, Route 20 between Sturbridge and Palmer would never be mistaken for the Indie 500. Three weeks out of the year, traffic becomes a blood sport, and parking is at a premium.

Leo’s Parking has been our family’s starting point for longer than we can remember. Leo is a pleasant fellow and reasonable, such that we are happy to hand over the stipend. Walking down Route 19, it is only a short trek to the entrance for the first lot of dealers. Dawdling along, gawking at the wares, I truly know the show has started when a voice calls out, “Gonna take it all home with you?” Tom Cummings, of Taunton, wants to engage with me. If you have taken a vow to avoid eye contact, this is not your place. Tom does cleanouts of attics and storage units. What has potential ends up at Brimfield. Be careful with all the temptations here. Like most Americans, I have more than enough stuff. The commitment of the sellers is matched by the fervor of the buyers. I met two friends who have been attending for more than 20 years. Cristina and Jay Dee were attired in identical T-shirts bearing the legend, “Peace Love Junk.” That says it all. Continuing the pilgrimage, still in the area known as Shelton Field, we came upon the Vintage Retriever. Yeah,

the owners have a dog of that breed. Impresario Julie McNamara, like many other dealers, did not directly start out in antiques. When she and her husband built their house in Holden, they searched for unique furnishings. The two found they enjoyed the hunt, and their pleasure turned into a business. McNamara described the stock as country-industrial. They find much of their inventory, such as old tables and benches, in mills around New England. The sun is beating down, but no one in the crowd was wilting, maybe as a reaction to the brutal winter or the single-minded pursuit of treasure. In the field known as Quaker Acres, we came across a rarity in these parts, dealers who actually are Brimfield residents. Doug and Melinda Kirkpatrick are both Massachusetts natives who returned home after years of working in entertainment law in California. They were involved in legal work for a startup studio here in the Bay State when the recession hit. An association with an antique dealer from Sturbridgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic Blackington Building led to the law office turning into an antique store. The office is closed, but the antique business lives on. Their shop was awash in color, with artifacts ranging from beautiful to weird. As we bantered, a woman came up to the table to inquire about a painting. It turned out Ann was not only a customer but a part of Cleveland Antiques, which has been coming to Brimfield for 20 years from Ohio. After a short haggle, she had her painting. All too often, it is impossible to say where the buyer ends and the dealer begins. Beware, you could come to browse and end up in the business.

This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s remaining shows are July 14-19 and Sept. 8-13. For more information, visit brimfieldshow.com.

li festy l e – h ealt h & f i t ness

Have your best staycation ever

By Amy Dean The option of the staycation originated several years ago when gas prices soared, the economy soured, and household budgets outpaced take-home pay. With the expense of travel and hotels, as well as the inability to truly escape from work, staycations are becoming a great alternative to traditional vacations and still providing a much-needed break from the daily grind. Here are 10 ways to experience all of the rest, relaxation and rejuvenation of a vacation without travel hassles or costs. 1. Fully disconnect from all technology for at least 24 hours. You need it, and your family and friends will benefit by actually spending time with you in conversation, enjoying great food, playing a game together or going for a walk. 2. Take a virtual tour. There are numerous opportunities to engage in virtual visits in the U.S. and around the world at museums, beaches, exotic locations, zoos and more. The best part: no crowds! 3. Create a home spa. What do those fancy spas that pamper you for an hour have over the spa you can create in your own home? Light scented candles, play relaxing music and step into a warm bath for a long soak. 4. Be a local tourist. No matter how long you’ve lived in the Worcester area, there’s a lot you probably haven’t explored. Visit a new store or restaurant, take a walk somewhere you’ve never been or go on a tour of a local factory or brewery. You’ll be surprised to find out what great things are offered that are close to home. 5. Set up a backyard campground. Why travel hours to a campground when you can pitch a tent in your

9. 10.

backyard with family or friends, build a fire or use a grill to cook your dinner and some delicious S’mores and settle in for a night of stargazing and telling campfire stories. Revisit a hobby. Remember when you collected stamps or baseball cards, knitted scarves or painted? Take some time to rejuvenate a former enjoyable pastime. Doing so may spark renewed interest. Reconnect with an old friend. Being able to relax and spend time with someone who isn’t a coworker, member of the family or part of your regular circle can provide you with an enjoyable trip down memory lane. Enjoy a movie marathon. Now is the time to watch all of the movies you’ve wanted to see. Pick a rainy day, make some popcorn and bring Hollywood into your home. Visit “neverland.” Never flown a kite? Never played tennis? Never kayaked? Never golfed? Now is the time to try something new. Volunteer. The city offers numerous opportunities to give back to others. Not only will this enrich your life, it will help others at the same time.

Amy Dean lives in Central Massachusetts and is the author of several books, including Growing Older, Growing Better: Daily Meditations for Celebrating Aging. Learn more about her at amydeanwriter.com.

l if esty l e – hea lth & fitn ess

Yoga: By Kimberly Dunbar

The world’s most flexible workout

Yoga has long been touted as a healer of chronic conditions, a stress reliever and a fitness and flexibility booster. According to Christine Chen, author of Happy-Go-Yoga, stress is the next big health crisis. Study after study has proved that practicing yoga can improve brain function, sleep and inflammation in the spine. However, many Americans still resist the idea of yoga. Perhaps there is still a stigma associated with yoga; that it’s for earthy, crunchy, tree-hugging hippies who gather at juice bars to discuss the benefits of veganism. Or maybe the prospect of awkwardly bending yourself into a pretzel in a room full of sweaty supermodels scares you away. But these ideas are far from accurate. The truth is most people have difficulty with yoga when they first try it, including Chen, who admits she could do just 20 percent of the class when she started. You can come up with a dozen reasons to reject yoga: You think it’s too hard or you just can’t find the time, a place you like or the money in your budget. However, yoga can be done almost anywhere, anytime – at home, at work, on an airplane and even at the bar (seriously, keep reading). Chen designed her advice specifically for those on the go – literally; the book is light and compact for easy transport. Yoga saved Chen from a lifetime of debilitating back pain, and she maintains her health by incorporating simple moves into her everyday routine. Chen won’t instruct you to downward dog while waiting for the bus; instead, her advice is “a collection of poses based on real yoga and real health information with a big dose of real life.” In other words, anyone can do it anytime and anywhere. Try “Eagle Twist” on the plane, “Spine Align” while sitting at your desk or “Surf It” while vacuuming the house. There are even moves to help you relax in crowded spaces. No seats on the train? No problem. “Have a Seat” against the wall and tighten your tush as you commute. Chen even advises ways to incorporate yoga while spending time with family or your significant other. Still skeptical that you can fit yoga in your life anywhere, anytime? Head to the bar – and bring Miriam Austin’s Bar Stool Yoga along with you. In it, Austin embraces the idea of “social yoga” in a fun, yet serious way. Each of the 40 yoga poses in the book are named after a cocktail (and include a recipe for a postworkout drink to match) and are photographed in a variety of bars, demonstrating how to use a barstool to your advantage. If that seems too silly for you, Austin includes an at-home version. If you’re embarrassed or intimidated by crowds, try the moves by yourself and in the comfort of your own home. Chen encourages doubters to try just one pose and see where it takes you. Whether that’s to a longer home routine, your first yoga class or even the local pub, the benefits will follow.

li festy l e – tec hno logy

Technology takes the work out of cleaning Now that the weather is finally on your side, the last thing you want to do is spend hours inside cleaning. Put away the mop with this armada of apps and services that will do your cleaning for you.

Get your home cleaned Give your home the deep clean it needs after winter without any effort by using Homejoy. Background-checked and certified professional cleaners will come to your home and clean every room. Homejoy will even wash your dishes, do your laundry, fold your clothes, make your bed and take out your trash and recyclables.

Store your off-season items Store your winter gear using MakeSpace’s on-demand storage system. When you schedule a free MakeSpace pickup, pack the bins with your winter stuff and gather your skis. The company will pick it all up, store your bins in a secure storage facility and create a visual catalog of your stuff, so when you need something delivered, it’s just a few clicks away.

Get butler-esque service Get a personal butler using Alfred. Twice a week, a carefully vetted Alfred will swing by and complete chores and errands and free up your time. Alfred will sort mail, tidy up an apartment, do grocery shopping, stock the fridge and pick up and drop off dry cleaning, laundry and pharmacy items.

Outsource your chores Like a personal assistant, TaskRabbit is a reliable one-stop shop for doing your dirty work. Taskers, who are fully vetted by TaskRabbit and reviewed by other customers, obliterate a spring cleaning to-do list by taking care of pretty much anything imaginable, including cleaning carpets, helping someone move into a new place, mounting a TV, getting groceries, cooking, etc.

Sell almost anything Use OfferUp to easily sell just about anything (except for a few forbidden items) to people in your neighborhood. All you need is the app, your phone’s camera and 30 seconds to list any item for sale on OfferUp. Just be sure to double check the buyer’s reviews so you can get your cash with confidence.

Sell your stacks Have unwanted video games, Blu-rays, CDs or DVDs? Send them to Decluttr and collect dollars. The app turns your phone’s camera into a barcode scanner, so you can get an instant value for your discs. Ship your discs to Decluttr using the free shipping label and get paid when your collection is processed.

Mass unsubscribe junk email Strip from unwanted junk mail from your inbox with Unroll.Me. Unroll.Me allows you to see your subscription emails in one place and unsubscribe from the junk you don’t want in just one click. For the subscriptions you do want, Unroll.Me lets you combine them into one email called the “Rollup.”

Ship your stuff While purging your closet, ship items across the country using Shyp. All you have to do is take a photo of the item and enter its destination. Shyp picks it up, securely packs it and sends it anywhere in the world using the most efficient option.

Go paperless Recycle your stack of papers after downloading and using Scannable to scan and digitally save any paper. Got an important business card? Use Scannable to transform it into a contact in your phone, complete with LinkedIn details.

Stop receiving junk mail Using PaperKarma, stop junk mail from ever reaching your doorstep. Just snap a photo of the mail, and PaperKarma will contact the senders to remove you from their distribution lists.

li festy l e – f or t he gra n d k i d s

For the grandkids

Cooper Kit

Cooper & Kid is changing the way dads do fatherhood, one box at a time. Cooper & Kid’s Cooper Kit is an instant “dad is awesome” box, filled with specially curated toys, activities, a bedtime story and more – shipped right to your door quarterly. Each quarter’s new theme is a surprise to both kids and dads, making Cooper & Kid delivery day a special household ritual. This makes a great gift for dads and kids (49) and delivers instant fun and memories through a bonding experience that encourages STEM, STEAM, STREAM and more. $65, cooperandkid.com.

Flip2BFit

Stay fit and bond with your grandkids while playing Flip2BFit – a fitness board game that provides endless entertainment and lets your family twist, jump and stretch their way to a healthier lifestyle. Flip2BFit introduces children to the basic concepts of yoga, cardio, stretching and strength activities in a fun and easy way. Utilizing the aspects of play, this innovative, creative and super entertaining game gets everyone up and moving and inspires a healthy lifestyle while building confidence and a love for activity. $34.95, Flip2BFit.com.

diaperDEPOT A

great

tool

for

grandparents

with

grandchildren in diapers, the 2-in-1 diaperDEPOT makes organizing easy with different options for configurations, allowing you to customize it exactly to your diaper-changing needs. You can make one station to fit a large assortment of diapers and baby toiletries or take it apart for multiple rooms in your home. Light, durable, easy to clean and easy to carry, it ensures that you have everything you need right at your fingertips. $20, princelionheart.com.

Baby Shusher The revolutionary Baby Shusher quickly soothes any fussy baby. Developed off

of the parenting technique in the Happiest Baby on the Block book, the Baby Shusher draws on ancient, time-tested practices and offers rhythmic shushing noises. Plus, the Baby Shusher allows you to set your timing preference with either a 15-minute option or a 30-minute option, and it has built-in volume control so that it’s louder than baby’s cries, which is proven to help calm babies. $31.50, pishposhbaby.com.

bebePOD Flex Plus The bebePOD Flex Plus is the award-

winning, pediatrician-approved, first infant seat for feeding, play and travel. It features a dualstrap system that easily converts it from a floor seat to a chair-mounted seat in a snap! Great for grandparents, it offers optimal support in helping baby learn to sit and eat. $65, princelionheart.com.

paren t care – a secti o n f or today’s caregiver

Keep important records in order We also have added a page for clients to list the various websites that they actively utilize in their daily affairs. We add usernames and passwords, so that loved ones can clean up those sites and close accounts when needed. Many people have Facebook, Twitter and other social media accounts that are very difficult or nearly impossible to close when someone dies or is incapacitated. You may have banking and investment accounts that can only be accessed online, as well. Navigation would be much easier for your heirs if they had access using your passwords. Lastly, you also should have important legal documents stored in a variety of places. We have our clients write each location and disclose which paperwork is where. The list of items you may want to include are: By Tom McDavitt Have you ever had to take an active role in cleaning up a family member or friend’s estate? If you have, then you likely have been involved in a very tedious process – even for someone that you may have considered to be organized. We have helped many clients deal with this scenario over the years, and to a person, they would agree that it would have been very helpful if they had some sort of a “map” of the person’s affairs. We utilize a very convenient record keeper that we call the “Personal Document Locator” to assist our clients in organizing their affairs. We include a page with the names and addresses of each client’s personal contacts such as: 1. 2. 3. 4.

Attorney. Tax preparer. Insurance agent. Financial advisor.

You might want to add doctors and other service providers, as well. Trying to sift through someone’s files and mail to find this information can take many more hours than is called for. Having them on paper with phone numbers, addresses and firm names can be very helpful.

1. Will, power of attorney, health care directives and trust agreements. 2. Birth certificates, Social Security cards, marriage certificates and military papers. 3. Vehicle titles and real estate deeds. 4. Safe deposit or home safe locations and key locations. 5. Tax returns. 6. Insurance documents and policies. 7. Investment statements. 8. List of valuable items owned and their locations. 9. Location of any cash. The more you have organized, the better the favor you are doing for your survivors! Prepare this information and provide a copy to your estate’s “personal representative” or tell him or her where you keep the list and how to access it if you die or become disabled. If you would like a complimentary copy of our Personal Document Locator, please send an e-mail to tom@mcdavittwm.com, and we will send you a copy. Your family members will be very thankful. Tom McDavitt, located at 102 Shore Drive, Suite 400, Worcester, MA 01605, is a Registered Representative and Investment Adviser Representative and offers securities and advisory services through Commonwealth Financial Network, member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser, and can be reached at (508) 852-6222.

parent care – caregivin g n ow

Proper nutrition can treat and reverse common vision problems

For 40 years, Dr. Robert Abel Jr. has dedicated his professional life as an ophthalmologist to preserving vision. As a founding partner in a large eye care practice in Delaware, he operates on 400 cataract patients a year, but he treats six times that number without surgery. “We know that specific foods and nutritional supplements have value in treating specific diseases, and we also now know there are also certain foods and supplements that specifically encourage eye health,” said Abel, author of The Eye Care Revolution. Abel said that by using an understanding of nutritional chemistry and other means, it is possible to control or eliminate many of the factors that contribute to the development of serious eye diseases. Controlled clinical studies show that the risk of developing cataracts can be decreased by more than half by eating fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C, as well as the antioxidants vitamin A, E, lutein and glutathione boosters. The risk of developing glaucoma can be lowered by consuming high levels of vitamins C and B12 and Omega 3s. Also, rhythmic breathing and avoiding blood pressure medications in the evenings can help lower the risk of developing glaucoma. The risk of developing macular degeneration can be reduced by maintaining high levels of vitamins A, D, E, the carotenoids zeaxanthin and lutein, DHA and the amino acid taurine (found in egg whites). Diabetic retinopathy can be delayed or prevented by consuming vitamin C along with alpha lipoic acid, Quercetin and other bioflavonoids.

2. Spinach, kale and green leafy vegetables are rich in carotenoids, especially lutein and zeaxanthin. Lutein protects the macula from sun damage and from blue light. 3. Eggs are rich in cysteine, sulfur, lecithin, amino acids and lutein. Sulfur-containing compounds protect the lens of the eye from cataract formation. 4. Garlic, onions, shallots and capers are also rich in sulfur, which is necessary for the production of glutathione, an important antioxidant for the lens of the eye. 5. Non-GMO soy, low in fat and rich in protein, contains essential fatty acids, phytoestrogens, vitamin E and natural anti-inflammatory agents. 6. Fruits and vegetables contain vitamins A, C, E and betacarotene. Yellow and orange vegetables, like carrots and squash, are important for daytime vision. 7. Blueberries and grapes contain anthocyanins, which improve night vision. A cup of blueberries, huckleberry jam or a 100 mg. supplement should improve dark adaptation within 30 minutes. 8. Wine, known to have a cardio-protective effect, has many important nutrients that protect the heart, vision and blood flow. 9. Nuts and berries are nature’s most concentrated food sources. Grains, such as flaxseed, are high in the beneficial Omega-3 fatty acids, which help lower cholesterol and stabilize cell membranes. 10. Extra-virgin olive oil is a healthy alternative to butter and margarine. Abel also recommends drinking six 8-ounce glasses of filtered water every day to keep properly hydrated, as water helps create the fluid in our eyes. “While we should depend primarily on whole foods to meet our nutritional needs, we should use vitamins and supplements as an insurance policy,” Abe said.

What is the ideal dietary regimen for someone concerned about preserving or improving eye health?

For eye health, Abel has formulated a special multivitamin, Eye Complex CS, which contains important nutrients to support the retina and protect the lens of the eye.

1. Cold water fish (sardines, cod, mackerel, tuna) are an excellent source of DHA, which provides structural support to cell membranes and is recommended for dry eyes, macular degeneration and sight preservation.

Dr. Robert Abel Jr., is the author of The Eye Care Revolution, which teaches patients how to treat and reverse common vision problems, and he has written eight other books. Other information concerning eye care can be found on his website, EyeAdvisory.com.

dining & e n terta i n i ng – d i ni ng rev i e w

T h e Urba n K i tc h e n + B ar 2 2 5 S h re w sb u ry S treet , Worcester (508) 755-8331 t h e u rba n w orcester . co m

Urban presents dishes with flavor and flair By Bernie Whitmore First, let’s take a moment to honor Coral Seafood for providing decades of happy dining experiences. Always on my short list of favorites, the yeasty, soft bread was a signature start, followed by our favorite entrees. For my troupe of friends, the end of the workweek was often celebrated with dinner at “The Coral.” These memories we owe to the hospitality of the Voyiatzis family. Georgia and her son, Jim, welcomed each of us as family. The days of Coral Seafood may have passed, but the same family is back with an entirely new concept. In the first months of operation, I’ve dined at The Urban Kitchen a few times and, at risk of raising expectations the owners might not yet be seeking, I’ve found the cuisine exciting. The bones of the building are immediately recognizable, but those huge overhead jellyfish lights have drifted away, and the library-style wine storage system behind the bar has been replaced with a proscenium arch framing a screen showing classic films. Enough backstory. It’s time to let the food speak for itself, and this evening’s event began with Grilled Octopus. This is one of my favorite “exotics,” and The Urban did it proud. Dramatically presented with one tentacle arcing over the others, each purple-tinged section was tender with mild seafood flavor accented by flecks of cilantro and citrusy cream sauce. Chorizo hash brown potatoes added a textural contrast and provided tasty bits of flavor. We accompanied that with a Charcuterie Board from Urban’s Share menu. I’m usually attracted to menu items such as this because the chef gets to display his

or her virtuosity – or is, at least, challenged to produce something interesting. This one was fascinating. Theresa, our server, pointed out the features of our charcuterie board before we started sampling. I started with the thick dab of pork rillettes and spread some onto grilled rustic bread with whole-grained mustard. Rillettes has the texture of fine-grained pâté and a highly refined flavor – very unusual. Tall wedges of firm, golden beets, shimmering translucent with a mild sweet flavor, gave way to the main charcuterie event: thick slices of braised beef tongue. I’ve watched Anthony Bourdain long enough to seize this moment with gusto. Braised for hours with a hint of brown sugar glaze, it was the epitome of the beef experience – tasty and tender and pleasingly dense; very exciting. Pink curls of pickled onion provided sparks of contrasting flavor. Perfumed with fennel and slightly sweet, they looked like delicate flower petals innocently drifted onto the board. After such an auspicious start, where might this dining experience be heading? With my Roasted Venison Loin, it bounded forward. Four generous filets were cooked medium-rare for ideal tenderness and flavor. To those who might cower in fear of “the gaminess,” I recommend they get over it and give venison a try. At The Urban Kitchen, it was mild in flavor and plated up with exciting flavor combinations. Nestled among the venison, roasted hen-of-the-woods mushrooms were thick and meaty and woodsy in flavor.

Wonderful! Venison is often teamed with berries of some sort. In this case, it was a sauté of softened cranberries, each bursting with tart flavor. Then, there were the fresh-steamed artichokes; if you’ve prepared your own, you’ll recognize the hand-carved rustic nature and their mild nutty flavor. Continuing our tour through the wild kingdom, my friend chose Seared Duck Breast, served with wild mushrooms and sweet potatoes over date purée. Another generously-sized entree, these slices of breast meat had glistening, pink interiors and a thin layer of wonderfully richtasting sear on the outside. They came with a tumble of earthy-tasting wild mushrooms and were garnished with bright-green nasturtium leaves. The Urban offers four selections of side orders. This evening, we chose the Mushroom and Leek Bread Pudding. Unusual? Certainly, but the Garlic Spinach is another option I’ve enjoyed. Both were delicious. For beverage pairings, my friend chose a glass of merlot from Bedell, a vineyard in Long Island, and complimented its soft and rich dark-berry flavors. Continuing my shift toward craft brews, I chose Mayflower IPA. Its moderately sharp-bitter flavor also featured hints of citrus; it posed no danger of overwhelming the food courses. For dessert, we ordered Zeppole, puffy balls of dough fried crusty brown on the outside with creamy centers. They were delicious dipped in maple crème anglaise – another example, I dare say, of peasant chic. In support of this exciting dining experience was a level of service that anticipated our needs, no matter how subtle. Perhaps I was distracted by the plates set before me, but in my experiences at Urban Kitchen, it seemed as if a waiter magically appeared with whatever I required just as I looked up. I’ll credit manager Ian Nal with attention to every detail and an exceptional level of staff training. The Urban Kitchen’s waiters are familiar with and enthusiastic about the creations they serve.

dining & e n terta i n i ng

w or m to w n bre w ery 7 2 S h re w sb u ry S treet , Worcester (774) 239-1555 w or m to w n bre w ery . co m

At the Wormtown Brewery, you can always Be Hoppy By Tricia Wise Wormtown Brewery has made the move to 72 Shrewsbury St. from the popular Worcester restaurant Peppercorn’s. Owners Tom Oliveri, David Fields and Ben Roesch ensure that every one of their craft beers will offer “a piece of Mass in every glass.” Recently, Pulse sat down with the owners of Wormtown to talk about the move and their plans for the future.

How did your business start? Tom Oliveri: It started on kind of a whim. Seven years ago, we opened an ice cream shop at the restaurant Peppercorn’s. It was a very seasonal business: Between June, July and August, business was great; other than that, it wasn’t. We looked for something a little bit more year-round as opposed to seasonal. One thing led to another, and five years ago, we opened Wormtown Brewery.

Why did you move business to Shrewsbury Street? Oliveri: Supply and demand. David Fields: We moved to Shrewsbury Street because of the visibility, the point of connection that this location provides, the huge market component to being on Shrewsbury Street.

What is the most popular beer? Fields: The most popular beer is by far the Be Hoppy, which was not anticipated. We originally opened with Seven Hills Session Pale Ale as the flagship brand. But Be Hoppy is one of our original brews, as well. Just because of our consumers, Be Hoppy became the most popular beer. But that’s not our most medaled beer at this point in time, which is the Pro Am Porter, which is seasonally available.

How would you define the style of the brewery? Fields: Overall, we are a hop-forward, West Coast-style brewery. But interestingly, when we range – such as the Pro Am Porter or the Norm or beers that won all the medals down in the U.S. Beer Open – we do really well. We have five or six hoppy-style beers, but we balance it with three to four malty, sweeter styles.

As your business expands, will you decide to serve food? Oliveri: We serve microwave popcorn! Fields: No. Oliveri: Never say never! Fields: This is made to be a commercial brewery; everyone right now follows this retail space. We have to be this really cool stop to come and hang out. Our business plan is to be a commercial brewery, just like Sam Adams and Wachusett. There are 18 [restaurants] around here, all selling our beers, so we love the partnership we have with everybody in Worcester.

Why is the local business aspect important? Fields: We are always sure to mention, “A piece of Mass in every glass,” which is really kind of the stamp on our commitment to beer and the local movement. Every beer we have has some sort of local, Massachusettsgrown ingredient. In the Masshole, 100 percent of the ingredients come from Massachusetts. With local businesses, it’s personal; it’s a personal touch. Ben Roesch: It keeps farmers in our community, keeps their family business. There are direct relationships. If anyone has a question or issue, I can answer it directly, which wouldn’t be possible if you go into the larger food conglomerate.

style & bea uty

These products will keep summer beautiful Summer is finally here. While we’re happy to be out in the warm weather, sometimes you need a little help with chilly summer nights, frizzy hair, smooth skin and sun protection. Check out these products – they’ll make summer a breeze!

Rub Rub Rub shower scrub

Rub Rub Rub is a bit of a variation on the normal shower gel. It’s so thick, it’s in tub for handy scooping in the shower. It’s also a bright-blue, supremely softening, exfoliating sea salt shower scrub to revive your skin. You can even use it as a shampoo in a pinch! $21.95; lushusa.com.

Ice Blue soap

When you’re in the shower, rub Ice Blue all over your body for a refreshing, tingly feeling. Peppermint has the incredible quality of making you feel cool when you’re hot and warm when you’re cold. To really wake up your skin and your senses, Ice Blue soap is made with refreshing citrus oils. $6.40; lushusa.com.

Hair Warrior

It’s bad enough that the dry air is making your hair unruly, but when you perspire, the salt that is released in your sweat can result in dry, brittle and dull-looking hair. Hair Warrior is an all-natural solution that you apply to your hair before working out. It reduces frizziness, preserves color and adds volume and shine. $24; hairwarrior.co.

Goodwipes

Have an hour lunch break and want to work out but not smell afterwards? Feel confident without showering with these handy wipes! Goodwipes are made from effective eco-friendly ingredients like tea tree oil, chamomile, lavender and peppermint to freshen up your neck, back, face, underarms and body. $6; goodwipes.com.

My Cabana Boy

Sunscreen is an absolute must for summer fun in the sun, but what good is that bottle of sunscreen if you aren’t applying it correctly? The My Cabana Boy applicator gets sunscreen on those tough-to-reach spots. Just snap in any full-size can of sunscreen, push the nozzle on the handle of My Cabana Boy, and it will evenly spray sunscreen across your body without missing areas on the backs of your legs, shoulders or the middle of your back. $9.99; my-cabanaboy.com.

Pocket Poppet

Need an extra layer after your workout? The flattering styling that takes this openfront, drape cardigan from day to night makes Pocket Poppet the perfect extra layer to take with you on the go. It comes in its own attached carrying case, which provides a clean and wrinkle-free cardigan when it’s needed. There are three styles to choose from and a host of colors. $99 - $129; pocketpoppet.com.