The Purist August/September Issue 2024 by The Purist

AN ADVENTURE IN WELLNESS

MULTITALENTED JENNIFER HUDSON IS READY TO SOAR AGAIN

LIFE-ALTERING THE POWER OF BREATH WORK

SING IT OUT WELLNESS NOTES

FILTERED WATER BEAUTY AND HEALTH BENEFITS

Michael Mundy

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E DITOR’ S L E TT E R

LET YOUR INNER LIGHT SHINE

One summer day about 15 years ago, I discovered a tool that changed my life. I was a hardworking mom with a nonstop work schedule—and pregnant with my third child, Carolina. I was tired, anxious, and no stranger to spikes of adrenaline and cortisol— the typical experience of the stretched-thin modern human. Through serendipity, I met the great Transcendental Meditation master Bob Roth, who summered in Montauk. Bob had the most beatific presence I’d ever come across; you could almost see the calm field surrounding him. He took one look at me and, with a knowing smile, began telling me about the science of meditation— how it was not simply a practice of the mind, but also of the body. He explained how, by “de-exciting” the mind through the simple practice he taught, the body could follow, helping to powerfully unwind stress. I remember saying with a laugh that I lived in the beta brain 24/7—alert, anxious, unlikely to sit still, always ready to fix the world. I liked the sound of slipping into meditation’s alpha-1 state—a transcendent state of restful alertness, where the body could heal and restore, and creative thoughts naturally bubbled up from the depths. Bob explained the “bliss” one could feel in that place was real—partly a result of increased blood flow to the brain and natural support of serotonin production. I quickly signed up to learn the practice.

Transcendental Meditation opened the doorway to a whole new way of being. The world “out there” wasn’t going to tone itself down—but I could move through it infinitely more capable of adapting to unexpected events, feeling more resourced and more in touch with the bliss of my inner light instead of being governed by my stressed

Be here now.

inner shadow. Soon, I learned other simple techniques, like nose breathing or pranayama, on the quest to become a better breather, just as renowned author James Nestor describes in this issue. Today these tools are my daily nonnegotiables. They physiologically change how stressinducing things affect me, and give me the quiet ability to redirect myself and stay on the path.

In Bob’s bestselling book, Strength in Stillness, he describes our thoughts as a tumult of waves on the ocean, and says we are but passengers on a small boat bobbing on the surface. What a perfect analogy for late summer! When we close our eyes and meditate, we can dip below the turbulence into the peaceful depths within. Coming out of meditation, I always picture myself on my surfboard— so much more graceful at riding the ever-changing waves above.

At its essence, Purist is all about the tools and guidance to locate and amplify our inner light, connect to our own source of creativity, and expand consciousness. Just like I learned with Bob, we don’t have to do this fully on our own. As Ram Dass famously said, “We’re all just walking each other home.” So as summer’s sweet days get more golden, I’d love to know what tools you like to use on your journey. Share them with me at wellness@thepuristonline.com!

FEATURES

84 FLY LIKE AN EGOT

Multitalented Jennifer Hudson talks fame, wellness, and the return to her television talk show and the recording studio.

90 THE GREEN VISION

Philanthropic powerhouse

Amy Green’ s lifelong dedication to preserving wildlife and planet Earth

JENNIFER HUDSON PHOTOGRAPHED

KENNEDI CARTER

DRESS AND CAPE BY ET OCHS, NECKLACE AND EARRINGS BY CARTIER.

THIS PAGE: CAPE BY OFF-WHITE, EARRING BY LILLIAN SHALOM

Jennifer Hudson

Kennedi Carter

MINDFUL

20 BEAMS OF LIGHT

Donna D’Cruz reflects on the restorative power of summer.

22 PRESTIGE PATHWAYS

Command Education’s bespoke college counseling for all

24 WELL TONED

The unexpected wellness benefits of singing

26 SOUNDS OF HEALING

Classical crossover singer

Sasha Lazard’ s musical roots

28 THAT’S THE TICKET

Author and entrepreneur

Gerald Rosengarten

32 SAFE PASSAGE

How to help children become better breathers

34 BREATHING HEALS

James Nestor sheds light on the power of breath work.

38 HOW REFRESHING

A water perfection system that harnesses the power of nature

40 NEW HARVEST

How to maintain hair health as the busy summer season comes to a close

42 BONDS OF MOTHERHOOD

A new lineup of hormonesupporting supplements for men and women

SPACE

44 ON VIEW

Christine Matthäi’ s ethereal oceanscapes

46 PURE PROPERTY

Not-to-be-missed real estate in the Hamptons

GLOW

50 HOMEGROWN GOODNESS

Hamptons Aromatherapy’s natural wonders sourced from the land and sea

52 PURE PICKS

Top cosmetic dermatologist

Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank shares his must-haves.

54 NEXT-LEVEL CLEAN

The secret to radiant skin and tresses lies in your filtered showerhead.

WEEKEND

56 FULL GALLOP

A new age of polo arrives in the Hamptons.

58 GOLD STANDARD

Reinstein Ross jewelers

President Sara Pilot looks to the future.

60 PURE PICKS

Kristina Blahnik’ s selections for a healthy, stylish summer

62 PURE PICKS

Crescala Collective CEO

Jodi Sandman shares her Hamptons-inspired picks for an inner and outer glow.

64 EDITOR’S PICKS

Cristina Cuomo’ s eco-minded beauty and lifestyle go-to’s

66 PURE PICKS

Paula Sanders’ daily beauty and self-care essentials

68 PURE PICKS

Neha Dani’s spiritual and creative inspirations

Colleen Saidman Yee and Rodney Yee

70 SNEAK PREVIEW

A first look at this year’s Hamptons International Film Festival

71 LAB OF LUXURY

Sustainable, lab-grown gems from Unsaid

VIBRANT

72 FIGHT THE FLU NOW

Dr. Stacie Stephenson’s tips for preventing fall viruses

FOOD IS MEDICINE

76 SUMMER’S SIMPLE PLEASURES

Embrace the season’s bright, natural flavors with three easy recipes from Peter Som

80 WHAT WELLNESS MEANS TO ME Katie Lee Biegel’ s secrets for vibrant summer living

82 A GALAXY OF DELIGHTS

In celebration of 20 years, Fresno gets a fresh look.

PLAY

96 OM, SHANTI!

Colleen Saidman Yee toasts 25 years of Yoga Shanti.

98 STRENGTH TO POWER

Celebrity trainer Ngo Okafor builds confidence and muscles.

100 ULTIMATE FITNESS

Post House’s Walter Savage on how to optimize health through posture-based exercises

101 PURE PUZZLE

A brain game with a wellness twist

102 AT A GLANCE Hamptons events calendar

104 NUMEROLOGY

A by-the-numbers look at actress Blake Lively

Blake Lively

Your journey to wellness starts deep inside, Transform your spirit, see the world embrace. With self-care and love as your faithful guide, To share your best self, in this sacred space.

journey wellness deep inside, Transform spirit, see the world embrace. With self-care and love as faithful guide, To share best in this sacred space.

Wellness is a in

Wellness is a community in bloom, Each heart a flower in the garden’s womb. Come join us now, let’s make this our creed, In wellness and love, together we lead.

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Transforming wellness from luxury to legacy. Discover how we build community wellness for all New Yorkers. ecotoneny.com

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EDITORIAL

Founder + Editor Cristina Cuomo

Executive Editor Ray Rogers

Features Editor Jim Servin

Assistant Editor + Photo Editor Jenna Lebovits

Senior Wellness + Beauty Editor Amely Greeven

Beauty + Fitness Editor Beth Landman

Wellness Editor Fernanda Niven

Contributing Health Editors Dr. Jeffrey Morrison,The Morrison Center; Tapp Francke Ingolia, STANDwellness

Copy Editor Michèle Filon

Research Editor Jill Malter

Editorial Interns Addie Heldman, Aislinn MacArthur

Contributing Food Editor Peter Som

Special Project Editors Jenny Landey,TR Pescod

Contributing Fashion Editor Gretchen Gunlocke Fenton

Contributing Writers Dr. Samantha Boardman, Isaac Boots, Donna Bulseco, Candace Bushnell

Alina Cho, Camille Coy, Chris Cuomo, Dr. Gerry Curatola, Donna D’Cruz

Dimitri Ehrlich, Melissa Errico, Pamela Fiori, Marisa Fox, Steve Garbarino, Kara Goldin

Dr. Limor Goren, Seth Herzog, Laura Hine, Nancy Kane, Dr. Gail King

Dr. Frank Lipman, Dr Lea Lis, Michael Mailer, Martha McGuinness, Myles Mellor

Kevin Menard, Roxanna Namavar, Dr. Eunice Park, Dr. David Perlmutter

Annelise Peterson, Kelly Posner Gerstenhaber, Dr. Christina Rahm, Leora Rosenberg

Tracee Ellis Ross, Hal Rubenstein, Jim Shi, Brooke Shields, Biet Simkin

Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson, Julia Szabo, Abby Tegnelia, Edwina Von Gal

Regina Weinreich, Ali Wentworth, Constance C.R. White, Sarah Wragge

DESIGN

Contributing Design Director Ben Margherita

Contributing Art Director Mikio Sakai

Contributing Designer Seton Rossini

Web Managers Tarin Keith, Aubrée Mercure

Contributing Photographers Melanie Acevedo, Camilla Akrans, Frederic Auerbach, Lachlan Bailey

David Bellemere, Justin Bettman, Cass Bird, Brian Bowen Smith

Kennedi Carter, Natalie Chitwood, Bob and Dawn Davis, Gregg Delman

Victor Demarchelier, Mikey DeTemple, Sophie Elgort, Francine Fleischer

Floto + Warner, Marili Forestieri, Diana Frank, Morgan Maassen

Roberto Matteo Marchese, Mary Ellen Matthews, Miller Mobley, David Molle

Ryan Moore, Nino Muñoz, Matt Sayles, Peggy Sirota, Simon Upton, Cathrine White

ADVERTISING

Publisher Helen Cleland, helen@thePURISTonline.com

Chief Revenue Officer Andrea Greeven Douzet, andrea@thePURISTonline.com

Head of Partnerships Nicole Levy, nicole@thePURISTonline.com

Executive Sales Directors Tova Bonem, Marisa Hochberg, Beatrice Huston, Michelle Johnson, Eden Williams

Rosalind Zukowski

Luxury Art Sales Director Lisa Rosenberg

Aspen Publisher Alexandra Halperin

Aspen Media Consultant Cheryl Foerster

MARKETING

Director of Marketing Ilene Frankel

Client Relations Director Jen Brown

Event Photographer Kristin Gray

Marketing Interns Sienna Galesi-Grant, Jamie Maroof

OPERATIONS

Chief Financial Officer Caryn Whitman

Production Direction Digital Workflow Solutions

Purist is distributed in New York City, the Hamptons, Aspen, Miami, Palm Beach, Los Angeles, and now in Chicago and Scottsdale.

For advertising inquiries, please contact sales@thePURISTonline.com

For editorial inquiries, please contact wellness@thePURISTonline.com

For production inquiries, please contact production@thePURISTonline.com

CONTRI BUTORS

DR. PAUL JARROD

FRANK, who unveiled his top picks for a glowy season (page 52).

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BEAUTY TREND RIGHT NOW?

“I’m finding AI beauty applications very of-the-moment. The latest being Miria by Avava, a new fractional laser that has just arrived at PFRANKMD. Miria goes deeper and is less painful than other nonablative lasers, providing dramatic improvements in skin tightening and acne scars. Raising the bar in inclusivity and utilizing the newest AI technology, Miria is a groundbreaking device.”

Paul Jarrod Frank, MD, is one of the most renowned cosmetic dermatologists in the world. Recognized for his minimally invasive techniques and holistic approach to cosmetic rejuvenation, Dr. Frank is a clinical assistant professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital and chief medical officer at PFRANKMD by Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank.

PETER SOM, who shared three bright summer dishes (page 76).

WHAT ARE YOUR GO-TO IN-SEASON SUMMER FOODS AT THE MOMENT?

“Sweet corn from Pike Farms, hands down. A quick grill on the barbecue, a hit of butter and flaky sea salt and I’m all set. I’m also addicted to cherry pies from Milk Pail. As a big watermelon fan, you’ll always find wedges of it in my fridge.”

Purist’s contributing food editor Peter Som is a recipe developer, lifestyle expert and fashion designer whose brand of effortless sophistication has extended from the runway to all arenas of the lifestyle space, with recipes and articles featured in numerous publications and digital platforms including Bon Appétit, Saveur, T Magazine, Food & Wine, and Refinery29.

KRISTINA BLAHNIK, who shared her seasonal must-haves (page 60).

WHICH MANOLO BLAHNIK

SHOE DO YOU ALWAYS KEEP IN YOUR SUMMER TRAVEL BAG?

“The Susa is a must-pack for me for every warmweather destination. It’s slim and practical to fit in a tote, all while being comfortable and stylish.”

Kristina Blahnik, CEO of Manolo Blahnik International Limited, is both a businesswoman and a creative, a rare fusion of strengths who has steered the family-run business forward since joining full time in 2009. With a wealth of experience as a chartered architect, Blahnik has an exceptional eye for detail, which plays a pivotal role in the creative process and development of each collection, alongside her uncle Manolo.

JULIA SZABO, who penned “Next-Level Clean” (page 54) and “That’s the Ticket” (page 28). HOW DO YOU CELEBRATE FELLOW CREATIVES THROUGH YOUR WRITING AND YOUR VISUAL ART MISSION, MSEUM?

“Art is in my DNA, so it’s a joy to write for Purist about creative change-makers like Anh Duong and Martha Szabo. For this issue, interviewing author Gerald Rosengarten was so meaningful, as he and I both overcame cognitive challenges: He’s dyslexic and I’m a stroke survivor. He’s an inspiration. Creativity heals!”

The founding director of MSeum (mseum. space), the world’s first museum to be built by women, Julia Szabo is the daughter of artist Martha Szabo (profiled in Purist’s Spring ’22 issue) and also writes regularly for Gallery & Studio arts journal.

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YOUR BODY IS 66% WATER. SHOULDN’T THAT WATER BE PERFECT?

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M I N DF U L

Consider engaging in a walking meditation on your favorite beach. Be mindful of what you see, smell, feel and hear.

Niklas Hamann

BEAMS OF LIGHT

Take some time to harness summer’s restorative power. BY DONNA D’CRUZ

Some summers feel different. This is one of them. You can feel it in the air. Fall and winter seem an age away, and most of us revel in the baking heat soaking into our very bones as if to store away the burgeoning warmth for chillier days.

Summer’s sights and smells depend largely on where you are. Oceanside smells are of briny saltwater with the faint whiff of fish. The heady wafts of honeysuckle, sweet rose, and the hypnotic dance of night-blooming jasmine crowd our olfactory banks, along with barbecued seafood and baked butter-soaked corn. Drive into the suburbs and the underlying scent of freshly mown grass and turf compete with the faint puffs of bergamot, rosewood and fabric softener.

Evenings bring the primal smells of food cooking to this heady brew.

Welcome to summer. I relish this magical season. It’s like living inside a Seals & Crofts song, with the smell of flowers spiking the air. “Summer breeze makes me feel fine, blowing through the jasmine in my mind.” This season serves as a natural reset button, offering a break from the relentless pace of daily life. The long, sunlit days encourage us to step outside, breathe deeply, and reconnect with ourselves. As Albert Camus beautifully put it, “In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.” Summer’s warmth and light provide

the perfect backdrop for reflection and renewal, allowing us to shed the burdens of the past and embrace new beginnings. Ready, reset…

To harness summer’s restorative power, try this summer “Dip Into Bliss”:

1 Find a quiet outdoor spot and sit comfortably.

2 Close your eyes and take deep breaths, feeling the warm air fill your lungs.

3 Visualize golden sunlight enveloping you, melting away stress and worry.

4 Listen to the sounds of nature in and around you—birds chirping, leaves rustling, feel your own breath.

5 Imagine yourself as a flower, blooming and thriving in the summer sun.

6 Open your eyes, feeling refreshed and renewed.

Bringing as it often does a promise of health, we also know how the poet John Keats warned us how the season’s lease hath all too short a date, and so we make the most of this season of wellness and health.

Tune in for weekly “Dip Into Bliss” meditations every Thursday with Cristina Cuomo and Donna D’Cruz on Instagram, @donnadcruz1 and @cristinacuomo; donnadcruz.com.

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PRESTIGE PATHWAYS

Command Education navigates students and their families throughout the complex college application process.

“Just apply to our state school.” This was the advice Command Education founder and CEO Christopher Rim received from his school guidance counselor when he expressed his intention to apply to Yale. “I wasn’t the best student,” Rim admits. “I had pretty good grades, but I was nowhere near the top of my class. Everyone, including my guidance counselor, said, ‘There’s no way you’re going to get into an Ivy.’” He applied anyway, got into Yale, and was the only student in his year to do so. Rim believes his acceptance wasn’t thanks to his GPA, but his efforts outside the classroom.

While he was in high school, Rim founded a nonprofit organization that taught schools in his area how to integrate emotional learning into the classroom. This led to him meeting Oprah Winfrey at the launch of Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation at Harvard. Rim’s experience led him to privately mentor a handful of students in similar positions: those who had interesting stories to tell, but perhaps not perfect grades. “The first person I ever helped from my high school got into MIT,” says Rim. “The second student went to Stanford. And from there, those parents told pretty much everybody. And that’s how the business grew—it started by accident.” Over the next nine years, the small operation with humble beginnings would evolve into a private, white-glove college consulting firm that offers support and mentoring for students from seventh grade to senior year.

Rim and his team at Command Education work with all kinds of students—from the not-so-motivated to the high performers—to help them discover what makes them stand out in the massive sea of applicants, getting to the

BY JENNA LEBOVITS

root of each student’s interests, passions and motivations. “We had a student who was interested in beauty, fashion and makeup,” shares Rim. “If you talk to any typical college consultant, they would say that’s not really something you can do, maybe try for an internship. But we told her, ‘Why don’t you start a YouTube account where you review makeup products, because you do it anyway?’” Rim worked with the student to build an online presence and draft letters to send to publicists and influencers. They considered their efforts successful when makeup mogul Kylie Jenner sent her the entire Kylie Cosmetics line to review. “That really built her confidence, and she did it on her own,” says Rim. “She was able to talk about this in her college essay in a very authentic way.”

All Command Education senior mentors are recent graduates of Ivy League schools and other top institutions. “We’re about half the age of your typical college consultant,” says Rim. “Because we’re younger, students don’t look at us as counselors, tutors or teachers; they look at us as like an older sibling, and more of a mentor.” There’s no avoiding the stress of applying to college, but Rim and his team aim to make the process as calm and positive as possible, while teaching valuable life lessons along the way. “We help them with everything from start to finish,” says Rim. “If a student is having trouble with a teacher who they think is unfair, or didn’t give them the points that they deserve for a test and they want to talk to them about it, we’ll walk them through how to do that. We’ll help them figure out how to defend their position. These are life skills. If you think something is unfair, you need to speak up.” commandeducation.com

Darya Tryfanava, Inset courtesy of Command Education

Christopher Rim

WELL TONED

Vocalize, harmonize and eliminate SSRIs in the medicine cabinet. BY ANNELISE PETERSON

When I was younger, I loved singing in the shower. Stepping into that echo-filled sanctuary, the amplified acoustics created a private concert hall where I cleansed my body and spirit from outside noise through musical notes, the water my audience and witness.

As I matured and clung to self-consciousness, I stopped serenading distant loves, mourning the end of cherished relationships and privately celebrating my inner strength through songs by Barbra Streisand that I learned on the car cassette player. Losing my voice meant gaining others’ approval. Sounds like Ariel’s dilemma in The Little Mermaid, doesn’t it? I learned to be smaller, quieter, not too big, not too loud and...not too honest. Perhaps I was really a mermaid, with the shower as my ocean. I got my legs and learned to walk in the world by toning myself down and accepting a supporting role in the chorus instead of courageously disrupting the entire performative system and upstaging its leads. After all, we are taught that there are no small parts, only small actors.

Singing oxygenates the body while releasing endorphins.

to prove our worth by taking the rugged route of the Rocky Mountains. Instead, we can embrace lighter journeys, like the spiritual score of song.

“Singing is about making space and has the potential to engage all seven of our body’s chakras,” affirms Samantha Joy Pearlman, a creator and vocal coach, as well as the lead singer in the band Joy and the Wildfire. Singing, akin to a lyrical meditation, requires the vocalist to focus attention on a specific point—the note—demanding presence and technique. All parts of the body must engage while simultaneously releasing, much like returning to a mantra with effort while allowing the mind to let it go. ”Singing is a practice. Like anything, the more you experience the notes, the easier they become to sing,” Pearlman explains. Eventually, hitting the notes isn’t the challenge; it’s about making a stylistic approach to the song.

Unfortunately, the truth always comes at a price—even in the land of Walt Disney. Upholding the status quo doesn’t make us wiser; it merely silences the voices capable of resonating our highest frequencies and setting us free— notes that express our truth and liberate our earthly spirits to a heavenly life. Instead of singing Streisand’s “Second Hand Rose,” my favorite song, I was becoming that character.

Although the spiritual path requires discipline and rigor, especially when reclaiming our essence, there are gentle ways to wisdom. While hiking the Pacific Crest Trail like Cheryl Strayed or moving to Italy and India like Elizabeth Gilbert make for compelling narratives, it’s not necessary to test the mind and body’s physical and emotional limits to resonate with our highest self—the one that navigates life’s challenges and triumphs with imperfect grace. When we awaken to the truth that the universe works in our favor, despite our trials and tribulations, everything changes. We no longer need

Beyond intention and technique, the science of song is compelling. An aerobic activity that requires deep breathing, singing brings fresh oxygen to all parts of the body while releasing endorphins, serotonin, dopamine and oxytocin— chemicals that enhance happiness and diminish depression. Additionally, vibrating our vocal cords stimulates the vagus nerve, the communication highway between the brain and various organs such as the gut, heart and lungs. The vagus nerve plays a crucial role in the parasympathetic response, governing the rest and digest functions, as opposed to the fight, flight or freeze reactions. Reactivating the vagus nerve is essential for rejuvenation and experiencing joy, enhanced libido and improved sexual health. If that’s not enough to get you belting a new ballad, perhaps vanity will. Studies have shown that 30 minutes of singing each day results in an improvement in facial muscle tone, counterbalancing aging. Instead of a prescription to an SSRI, a more holistic approach might be to suggest a vocal coach over a psychiatrist. After all, joy is our birthright, and most of us come out screaming. Embrace your brilliance and let your true voice resonate—it’s the most loving act you can do.

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SOUND OF HEALING

Sasha Lazard has a sonic spiritual awakening. BY

DIMITRI EHRLICH

Her life has been a story of unexpected transformations. As a child, Sasha Lazard was typically open-minded in her relationship to music, consuming with casual acceptance whatever the adults around her happened to be playing.

Growing up—first in New York City and then in Paris— Lazard was exposed to the jazz music her father loved.

(A professional TV news journalist, he played trumpet in a jazz band as a hobby.) After her parents divorced, Lazard’s mother, an art photographer, met a boyfriend who introduced Lazard to opera. Although at first she had to be dragged unwillingly to multihour performances of Mozart and Wagner, soon she felt an extraordinary revelation: She had found her home and it was classical music.

Over the next several years, Lazard was unwavering in her commitment to honing her ethereal mezzo-soprano, tuning out more or less all the various pop music of the moment that her peers were dancing or headbanging to. Blossoming into a professional performing artist, it seemed her life and destiny were set.

After graduating from Bennington, Lazard headed west and was accepted at the prestigious San Francisco Conservatory of Music. Soon after, she met a young DJ

producer named Mark Raskin in a nightclub back in New York. Over the next several years, Lazard found success merging her operatic vocals over cool, trippy beats, releasing a series of Billboard-charting singles. Over the course of five albums (including the score and soundtrack for the movie Blind, starring Alec Baldwin and Demi Moore, on which Lazard sang a duet with Robert Redford), she continued to explore ways of blending classical singing with various forms of pop music.

In 2022, after three bouts with Lyme disease, Lazard attended a sound bath performance on Shelter Island (a retreat organized by Purist) and once again the compass of her life journey took an unexpected turn. “During the sound bath, I felt a shift,” Lazard says.

Although she had been meditating on and off for many years, the sound bath became a catalyst for her to view music as a tool on the spiritual path. “The sound waves quieted, and then reawakened my brain, and nothing had ever been so successful in putting me into a truly meditative experience before. It really opened me up to the idea of the healing power of music and tone and vibration.” sashalazard.com

Kristin Gray

Sasha Lazard performs an ancient Sanskrit song with cellist Peter Sachon at a Purist event.

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THAT’S THE TICKET

Keeping

pace with on-the-move entrepreneur and Jump on the Train author Gerald Rosengarten.

BY JULIA SZABO

Jump on the Train is more than the title of Gerald “Jerry” Rosengarten’s new book—it’s also the Brooklyn-born serial entrepreneur’s lifelong guiding principle, fueled by his hometown’s storied subway system. “When you live in New York City, you invariably hear an old saying: ‘You either get on the train or let it go by.’ This urban adage not only applied to my daily commute, but it has been the metaphor of my career... I often have found myself jumping from one subway line to another, heading in many different directions.”

Rosengarten’s book is a riveting, reader-friendly road map of one dynamic journey, with as many inspiring lessons as there are potential rapid-transit routes to take. Like a train running at top speed on an elevated outdoor track, the nearly 300-page, 12-chapter read has a thrilling pace, with panoramic views, from the perspective of its open-minded, compassionate author, who graciously offers his lifetime of

Rosengarten’s new book documents a fascinating life of innovation.

business savvy as a multipart teaching lesson. (Rosengarten considered his fellow dyslexics, as well as vision-impaired readers, by recording an audio version of the book.)

His narrative ranges like a fast-and-furious romp across the New York map, from midtown’s Garment District to ’70s-era Soho’s artists’ loft spaces, with additional stops in the East Village, Alphabet City and even further afield: on Long Island, then in Florida, London and Moscow. Proving that to “jump on the train” is very much a state of mind, Rosengarten’s agile brain still aerobically train-jumps, even though his primary mode of transport these days is no longer an actual train but rather a sleek, white Tesla.

His surname means “rose garden” in German, and yet, for his first five decades, Rosengarten’s reality was hardly a bed of blooms; rather, it was a daily battle with dyslexia. Now, with increasing cultural awareness of disability

Courtesy of Gerald Rosengarten

empowerment, it’s evident that the reading challenge affecting some 40 million Americans can be a kind of superpower. “You can’t even imagine what it’s like to not be able to read,” he says. “My book is designed to open up the fact that you don’t have to just succumb to a problem. You can get over the problem. There are so many different ways to do things!”

“Succumb” was never a term in this author’s vocabulary, even when words on a page confounded him. “Most of my life I had to deal differently with the printed word,” he says. ”I had to learn from people as opposed to books. But I never had any problem with numbers. Math I was very good at.”

Acting was another source of strength, and Rosengarten studied at the legendary The Actors Studio, alma mater of Paul Newman and Al Pacino. He learned his parts via memorization, with a little help from friends and family, his brother in particular, who practiced lines with him. These days, virtuoso acting remains a source of tremendous pleasure to Rosengarten, who recalls being blown away by the late, great Peter O’Toole on the London stage.

A short list of Rosengarten’s achievements—from inventing leisure suits and legal loft living in the 1970s, to being the force behind two Manhattan landmarks, The Bowery Hotel and the Theater for the New City—culminates in the solar farm he pioneered in Mastic, on Long Island, as well as the sustainable Southampton green home he meticulously built and still lives in.

Today, dedicated medical buildings increasingly populate what Rosengarten calls “the NYC universe of real estate development.” The first to boldly jump on that train back in 1984, with the Greenwich Medical Arts Building, designed for doctors’ offices, he calls the building “a ‘drizzler,’ because it would keep splitting out cash flow.”

Hearing about ingenious colorful

screens enabling fellow dyslexics to read, Rosengarten pushed to devise a targeted method to help children, calling it the Rainbow Reader. His proudest achievement, he says, was successfully installing the first of 700 lifts at the Florida community where his parents retired, and where the powers that be had mistakenly decreed that the machines simply wouldn’t work. “The lifts added 10 years to those seniors’ lives,” he says.

It’s a fine example, he adds, of how “I enjoy inventing change.”

Thanks to dyslexia, “I would see what wasn’t there more than what was there, and I’d make it happen. It’s like I’m always proving something, always going further.”

That, of course, is what gamechanging entrepreneurs do, and Rosengarten—who cuts a dashing figure on the East End, in Giorgio Armani black linen—is pleased to take his well-deserved place among other business leaders he admires. One of his peers, the late Steve Jobs (although the two never met), even inspired Rosengarten to invent a watchband for the Apple Watch.

“People get hot and sweaty doing sports with the Apple Watch, and it can get uncomfortable. This slides on your wrist and you don’t feel like you’re wearing anything.” The inventor, his wife and a few friends are happily wearing the first prototypes, whose oval shape symbolizes Rosengarten’s next train ride: Run For the Sun, “which will utilize the solar farm as a running track for society’s most vulnerable: high school students of all learning abilities. All can compete—they don’t have to be track stars—with scholarships and Apple products awarded to the winners. My goal,” he concludes, “is to uplift high schoolers, because they’re our future.” His vision is for all solar farms in the country to join in this environmental event. jumponthetrainbook.com

Gerald Rosengarten

The Bowery Hotel, one of Rosengarten’s building projects

Rosengarten’s Long Island solar farm on a snowy day

HE A LT H

Walking on sand boosts muscular endurance, increases leg strength and burns more calories compared to walking on more solid surfaces.

Irina Shishkina

SAFE PASSAGE

Helping children to be better breathers sets them up for a life of optimal health.

BY AMELY GREEVEN

As a parent, catching cues that children are struggling with the basic breathing functions that James Nestor describes on the previous pages can be life-changing, literally. Though still unrecognized by most well-meaning doctors and dentists, the early indicators of poor orofacial habits or development can be detected very early and corrected with appliances from as early as 3 years old, says Hilary Fritsch, DMD, a biological dentist who is specially trained to evaluate and treat airway health. (Loosely put, she zeroes in on how a person’s facial structure supports or impedes optimal breathing.) Fritsch, who treats adults and kids alike, advises parents to watch for things like mouth breathing by day or night, thumb or finger sucking—which pushes the palate into an inverted “v,” reducing the available space for the tongue to seal against it—snoring or very restless sleep, and baby teeth that lack spaces between them, an indicator that the mouth isn’t growing large enough for the adult teeth (including wisdom teeth) to come.

Sounds a bit neurotic? Think again. Fritsch concurs with Nestor that less breastfeeding, blitzed-soft baby foods and industrial diets replacing ancestral ones have been epigenetic pressures changing the shape of our faces. (She almost never sees a child in her practice with an optimally sized palate or jaw.) Meanwhile, restriction in a child’s tongue mobility (aka tongue tie) is very often not diagnosed, even if a mom has had breastfeeding struggles. This convergence of undersized jaws and weak tongues mean our children can be dealing with consequences that are never ascribed to airway health—things like poor and disordered sleep, which affects every cell in the body, night terrors, and even sleep apnea. Chronic sleep disruption doesn’t only cause fatigue and irritability; it can cause behaviors that look like hyperactivity, attention disorders, or mood disorders—and get diagnosed as such. Bedwetting, chronic earaches or tonsil infections, cavities, headaches, allergies, asthma, malocclusions and crowded teeth are the “heavy hitter” indicators that a child needs airway evaluation, Fritsch says. So are things like lisps, which typically send a kid to speech therapy without addressing the structural root cause. More subtly, nasal congestion, bad temper or heightened reactivity can also suggest airway issues, because the calming vagus nerve and the roof of the mouth are intimately connected. Unfortunately, most kids who struggle only get flagged

for the obvious dental issues, like crooked teeth. Parents are typically told to “wait for the adult teeth to come in” and get to an orthodontist for braces. Fritsch finds this approach—like waiting until after heart disease has taken hold to diagnose chronic sleep apnea at play—outdated, and maddening. “It starts kids’ treatment way too late. We can intervene early with simple things like myofunctional therapy and fixed expanders to create the space for straight, beautiful teeth at a young age—often avoiding the need for traditional orthodontics at all.” It’s infinitely easier to improve a child’s growing oral structure than an adult’s developed one (though correctional procedures to improve airway health, resolve disease-causing sleep apnea and dramatically improve sleep are available at any age.) Not only will getting a jump on it save children from years of health- and cognition-damaging bad sleep—the effect of this neurocognitive deficit is lasting, according to research—it will help them to develop the nice cheekbones, good facial proportions and jawline, and big, broad smile they deserve. Notes Fritsch, “Almost every kid I see who has finished orthodontics still doesn’t have an adequate airway because the current medical system doesn’t fully understand how to develop the jaw, and they don’t believe it’s possible. This leaves kids with a problem that likely will only get worse as they get older.”

Airway-trained dentists are still a rare breed, though this subspecialty is growing. Myofunctional therapists, meanwhile, can teach facial and tongue strengthening exercises, and introduce simple corrective appliances like Myo Munchee and Myobrace. Toothpillow, a new platform streamlining airway assessment, treatment and coaching, aims to make this path easy for families. Fritsch advises parents to take keen interest in their child’s oral habits; the thumb sucking deterrent TGuard AeroThumb is handy, and the nifty REMplenish Myo-Nozzle helps kids (and adults) strengthen airway muscles with every sip of water. Once your child’s permanent molars are in, ask your dentist to measure the distance between them; if needed, fixed expanders can help to naturally achieve optimal growth. (Fritsch likes to see at least 40mm distance for children of European ancestry and 45mm for children of other ancestries.) And never be fobbed off by “they’ll grow out of it”—proactive steps, taken early, pay off a thousandfold as your child grows. saddlepeakdental.com

BREATHING HEALS

Exploring the extensive wellness benefits of proper inhaling and exhaling with James Nestor, award-winning journalist and bestselling author of Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art. BY CRISTINA CUOMO

CRISTINA CUOMO: In your book Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art, you state there is nothing more beneficial to health than breathing. This is the future, and it’s also the past—when you go back to the beginning of human existence, as you uncovered in your book, the ancients recorded breath and nose breathing as a healing modality. It’s like the solution was given from the get-go, and yet we strayed so far from this gift we were given. How did we lose this art of healing?

JAMES NESTOR: We lost it because we now are completely divorced from the natural environment in which we evolved. If you look at how we interact with nature today, most of us aren’t anywhere near it. We sit inside rooms 90 percent of the time. We wear clothes that are too tight. We are congested from air pollution, and we’ve adopted a diet that does not allow us to chew properly. Without that proper chewing, we don’t have the proper airway help. These are all the wonderful things that industrialization has given us. Once you identify those problems, then you can fix them.

CC: You chronicle the effects of healing through breath work on asthma, anxiety, ADD and psoriasis. My favorite story was the history of the German woman who healed herself from scoliosis. I love that chapter, because my own daughter suffers from that. It was amazing that the

woman was able to breathe in a certain way to expand her lungs so much that it straightened her spine, and then go on to help others for decades thereafter and receive an award from the government. She wasn’t even a doctor. She just did this for herself, and that’s where it all began. But it still sounds so unbelievable to people when I tell them that story. Why do you think that is?

JN: We have been taught that the human body is inflexible, and once we have a certain condition, we’re stuck with it our whole life. Not true. I’ve talked to hundreds of people who have either significantly reduced their symptoms of asthma, or completely gotten rid of them by fixing their breathing. I know it sounds impossible, but the science is there. I was talking with Dr. Andrew Weil about scoliosis. He asked: “Why do people get scoliosis?” I thought about it and said, “It’s genetic.” He replied, “No, not really. Why do people get scoliosis?” I said, “I don’t know.” He said, “Yeah, nobody knows.” What he was told—and again, this is not proven, it’s just a hypothesis—is that it’s likely due to a breathing dysfunction early on in life. If you have that breathing dysfunction long enough, it can affect the curvature of your spine. So, if that is one of the causes of scoliosis, how do you fix it? Katharina Schroth in Dresden, Germany, showed how. If you’re willing to go through very rigorous training, you can fix it by

James Nestor

learning something called orthopedic breathing. It’s a series of stretches and huge inhales. Right now, if you take an enormous inhale, what happens to your posture when you take that inhale? Your spine straightens. If you continue to do that, you can influence the spine. That’s what the Schroth Method is based on. I did not believe this myself until I looked at the science. I looked at the pictures. I looked at the films, and it’s still being taught at Johns Hopkins and other institutions all around the world.

CC: Is tongue posture the gateway to airway health?

JN: It’s so important. Isn’t this bizarre that we have to teach ourselves how to chew properly, how to swallow properly, how to hold our tongues properly?

But that’s what’s happened, because again, we’re so divorced from a natural environment and natural foods and natural living. Myofunctional therapy is a complicated name for something that’s very simple—it just means oral posture. What many kids do when they swallow is push their tongue against their teeth. This is a disaster. It’s going to push your teeth outwards. It can actually change the shape of your face. What you should be doing when you are swallowing is putting the tongue to the roof of the mouth. When you do that, you help expand that upper palate, which helps open up the airway.

CC: Let’s talk about your journey to breathe correctly.

JN: I was physically doing OK: working out, eating the right foods, sleeping eight hours a night, but I wasn’t breathing properly. I didn’t know this, but that was the main reason why I was getting bronchitis and mild pneumonia all the time. I surf a lot—surfing in the winter in San Francisco is not the warmest thing that someone could ever do— and I was having constant respiratory issues, year after year. I would go to a doctor, and they would just give me antibiotics, which I was stupid enough back then to take. They’d work for a little bit, and then bronchitis would come back more severely. Another doctor friend suggested that my breathing was off. I thought it sounded so silly. I was like, “What do you mean my breathing is off? I can breathe. I’m breathing right now.” And she said, “No, I think you’re mouth breathing, and you’re breathing too much. Breathe into your chest.” I took a breath work class, and it completely knocked my socks off. I’m not saying this is proof of anything, but I haven’t had an issue with bronchitis or pneumonia since I learned how to breathe properly. I’ve heard the same story from hundreds of

people, so it makes sense if something is causing you to suffer from all these issues and you stop doing the thing that’s causing you suffering, then you’re going to get better. That’s certainly what happened to me.

CC: What are the proven benefits?

JN: I’m a science journalist, so when I first got into this, the first question I had to answer is: Can any of it be measured across large populations? What are the results of those measurements? Has it been scientifically proven? It turns out that it has. Things like straightening the scoliotic spine through proper breathing has been measured and documented. Improving asthma, panic, improving ADHD by changing kids’ sleep habits—all of this is proven. At the back of the book, there are more than 600 scientific references, and all of those are available for free on my website.

CC: Break down some of the breathing practices for us. JN: There have been breathing practices for thousands of years. Some of the oldest are from ancient India. Pranayama means the cessation of breathing, breath holding. Qigong isn’t much different. It’s less vigorous breathing, more calm and soft, with breath holds. It’s from those two practices primarily that we get so many of the breath work practices that we’re doing today. In the modern world, we can easily measure what these different practices are doing to blood saturation, heart rate variability, sleep. People see significant gains across the board by just adopting better breathing habits.

CC: Tell me about your breathing practice today.

JN: I’d love to say I sit around all day and do these breathing practices. I don’t. I have a stressful life. I live in the modern world just like everybody else. I’m in the middle of writing a new book. I’m constantly traveling, I’m on airplanes and in hotels. But the good news is I have been exposed to enough of these healthy breathing practices and interviewed enough of the experts in the field, so that I always have these techniques at my disposal. I can use them to defuse stress if a password no longer works on a website. I can use them to help go to sleep by breathing more slowly and holding the breath. I can use them before I work out. I can use them surfing to handle bigger hold-downs. You want it to be your default, your habit, so you don’t have to think about it. It’s something that I’ve practiced really hard. Now I’m a much better breather. mrjamesnestor.com

HOW REFRESHING

Tensui Water Perfection Systems remove the bad and add in the good.

BY JENNA LEBOVITS

Water is life. Some research shows that up to 75 percent of Americans may be chronically dehydrated, with some experts considering these high numbers to be near-epidemic proportions. True hydration means more than simply drinking enough water; it’s about considering what is and isn’t present in the water you’re consuming. Most tap water in the United States contains a slew of harmful chemicals— arsenic, lead and chlorine, to name a few—that Americans drink, shower and bathe their children in Tensui, a New York-based water perfection systems company has a clear solution: alkaline, electrolyte- and mineral-rich water that is largely free from chemical contaminants, tannins and more.

In ancient Japan, rainwater that was purified through soil and stones was named tensui, or “water from heaven.”

And there’s a reason why President Scott Lowy named his company a “perfection system,” rather than the typical “purification” or “filtration.” “The water is alive,” shares Lowy. While removing and reducing chemicals, pharmaceuticals, heavy metals and other toxic materials, the restructured water is enhanced with essential minerals and dissolved oxygen, and infused with negative ions. According to Lowy, this gives the water a deeply hydrating and antioxidant effect. While many customers appreciate the glowy boost to their hair’s health and beauty, its benefits aren’t only skin-deep. “Our water tastes sweet,” shares

Lowy. “We don’t filter out the good; we leave in the beneficial minerals in the water, and add in trace amounts of electrolytes, calcium, magnesium and potassium,” which boosts hydration and overall energy levels.

Tensui’s clean water benefits the plant kingdom, too. “It will make your grass grow twice as fast, enhance the bloom of flowers, and help the plant drop a deeper root mass,” shares Lowy. “In tests that have been done in greenhouses, it can actually add a growing cycle.”

The full-home systems will last 12 to 15 years before rebedding; the actual system will last longer. Under-the-sink systems (which Lowy recommends for renters) have filters that will last three to four years. Both systems require little to no maintenance, and harness the purifying power of nature with 15 different compounds including quartz, carbon, magnesium crystals and tourmaline. Every full-home water perfection system is perfectly tailored to fit each home. “We take into account how many people live in the house, and how many bathrooms and dishwashers they have, so that we can fully take care of the house without reducing water pressure.”

What keeps Lowy motivated two-and-a-half decades later is the positive praise from customers. “People tell me, ‘I couldn’t wait to get back to my house to get back to our water,’” says Lowy. “That’s how I feel when I travel as well.” tensuiwater.com

Terry Vlisidis

NEW HARVEST

How a return to routines post-summer can affect hair health.

It’s back-to-school time. A change of seasons, with attendant shifts in work and social schedules, can bring unique stressors that impact hair health. Purist spoke with Brianna Diorio, Ph.D., clinical nutritionist and director of product education at Nutrafol, to dive into the science behind hair growth, and share tips for optimizing healthy hair this season.

PURIST: What are some hair thinning triggers people may not realize are impacting them this time of year?

Brianna Diorio: Routines provide structure and predictability to our lives, and can be beneficial for maintaining balanced health. However, disruptions to routines can affect well-being. Deviating from established routines during the summer can indirectly and directly impact factors we didn’t realize play a role in hair health, such as nutrition, stress and sleep. Whether it is the stress of figuring out the upcoming sports and carpool schedules, back-to-school shopping, or getting the kids and their extracurricular activities aligned, these stressors can add up and impact hair health. Some of these choices can indirectly impact interconnected systems, such as sleep and nutrition.

PURIST: What are some tips for combating these triggers?

BD: It is important to cover your foundational health bases by focusing on factors such as stress, nutrition,

Nutrafol employs a whole-body approach to hair growth with each of its physicianformulated supplements.

sleep, hydration and movement, working to create a healthy lifestyle with habits and routines that support your wellness goals. Stay “boring” with your diet—eat nutrient-dense foods that contain a variety of plant compounds, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. For hair health, focus on quality proteins and omega fatty acids. Work to get in some form of movement every day. Aim for quality sleep each night.

Additionally, adding in a supplement, such as Nutrafol Hair Growth Supplement, can help address underlying root causes that can impact hair health. Although this time of year can possibly feel overwhelming, it’s also a wonderful time to recommit to yourself and work on adopting new habits and routines that can support your health.

PURIST: How does one stay consistent while getting back into a routine?

BD: Hair growth takes time. If you’re beginning a dietary regimen with supplements like Nutrafol, take them consistently for at least three to six months to see results. Habit stacking is also a big one. If you want to implement something new into your routine, stack it with another habit you’ve already adopted: “After I get back from the gym I eat my breakfast and take my Nutrafol.” Carve out a specific time for the new activity. nutrafol.com

BONDS OF MOTHERHOOD

Parent of two Caryn Johnson created her new Bond line of supplements to support hormone health in ways she wishes she’d had during her struggles with infertility.

BY ABBY TEGNELIA

In a world where doctors don’t always volunteer information or guidance regarding hormones, Caryn Johnson’s new supplement company is helping women care for their bodies on their own terms. The now mother of two was first called to help while grieving two miscarriages during her infertility struggle—and wishing she had known more about the connection between her immune system and reproductive cycle. Soon, Bond was born.

“Bond is centered around helping women with their hormone health, reproductive cycles and reproductive systems,” Johnson says. “We want to help the full spectrum of women right from their first period until they’re through menopause. And it’s all centered around my own infertility story, because if I had had the help with my own body related to my immune system and microbiome, I would have had a different journey to motherhood.”

Women currently have four Bond products to choose from: Daily Balance, a drinkable multivitamin that offers hormone health support; Cycle Care, also a drinkable, which supports PMS symptoms and hormone detoxification; Myo & D-Chiro Inositol Powder that supports ovarian and reproductive health; and Conception Boost, a natural and comprehensive fertility supplement that optimizes the ability to conceive. (A product focused only on perimenopause and menopause symptoms is scheduled for 2025.) And men aren’t left out: Bond’s Vitality & Reproductive

Support supplement proactively optimizes their reproductive health.

As the former CMO of Vital Proteins, Johnson was set up for success as an entrepreneur in the wellness space. The fifth employee at the wildly successful collagen supplement company, Johnson was able to “learn the whole business” and saw the company through its acquisition by Nestlé Health Sciences, gaining invaluable industry insights. During that time, Johnson was in the midst of her infertility struggle, and was eventually diagnosed with autoimmune infertility. Finally, she landed a specialty doctor at one of only three such clinics in the U.S., which treats the immune system in regard to fertility. With her help, Johnson was able to carry her son, Elijah, and welcome her daughter, Ruthie, through surrogacy. After experiencing the lack of resources and support for women dealing with unexplained infertility, she launched Bond last fall to help women take a more proactive approachto their hormone and immune health—key factors in fertility that are often overlooked.

“Now that I have my children in my arms, I look at their beautiful faces and just want to help other women understand their own bodies in a deeper way,” Johnson says. “A lot of what happened to me could have been prevented.” Because of her experience, she has a special way of tracking her brand’s success: “I try to count babies!” she says. “I have 13 in utero right now, and the first was just born.” bond.life

From top: Courtesy of Bond, Ali Rose

Bond’s products help balance the body’s hormones, cycles and reproductive system.

Caryn Johnson with her children, Elijah and Ruthie

1. New Build on 3 Acres | Bridgehampton

$8.95M | New Architectural Masterpiece 3± Acres | 10,195± sf | 7 BR | 7 Full, 2 Half BA

Infrared Sauna + Cold Plunge Heated Saltwater Gunite Pool + Spa Option to Add Pickleball 662MillstoneRd.com

Christopher J. Burnside 516.521.6007 | cburnside@bhsusa.com

Aubri Peele

631.252.5434 | apeele@bhsusa.com

2. Bayfront Oasis | Westhampton Beach

$9.45M | Spectacular Views From Every Room | 4,000± sf | 5 BR | 5.5 BA Heated Gunite Pool + Spa | Multi-Level Decking | Poolside Cabana with Refrigerators and TV Ocean Access Across the Street 218DuneRoad.com

William F. LeMaire

631.288.5208 | wlemaire@bhsusa.com

3. New Construction | Sag Harbor

Christopher J. Burnside 516.521.6007 | cburnside@bhsusa.com

Aubri Peele 631.252.5434 | apeele@bhsusa.com

4. New Masterpiece | Southampton

John P. Vitello 516.315.6867 | jvitello@bhsusa.com Iwona Rokosz 631.655.9737 | irokosz@bhsusa.com

5. Pure Luxury | Westhampton Beach

David Tenenbaum 347.907.5939 | dtenenbaum@bhsusa.com

Gayle Osman Lopata 631.288.5124 | glopata@bhsusa.com

6. Southampton Waterfront

Amelia M. Doggwiler 631.204.2426 | adoggwiler@bhsusa.com

SPACE

Courtesy of Christine Mat thäi

Christine Matthäi, “Hampton Sea,” 2015

Saturday July 26th through Sunday August 25th

1 Hampton Road, Southampton, NY

PURE PROPERTY

Find your perfect Hamptons home. BY

As summer draws to a close, farms are bountiful, oceans still warm and a crisp newness in the air makes everything feel hopeful. Turn those dreams of East End living into a reality. Below are some truly special beauties, all unique in their own way.

Come hither to this home for sale at 9 Hither Lane in East Hampton. The new, fully furnished estate by James Michael Howard offers 8 bedrooms and 8.5 bathrooms and asks $24.95 million with Gary DePersia of Corcoran. Set on over an acre, the timeless residence is one-of-a-kind luxury living at its finest. Opulence abounds in the three-level property, accessible by elevator with the grand entrance’s doubleheight foyer and staircase leading to a drawing room with 14-foot ceilings and a custom fireplace, while the chef’s kitchen is equipped with top-tier appliances and a large center island with an oversize Mick De Giulio sink. The main floor’s primary suite comes complete with a steam shower, tub and European-style walk-in closets; on the second

From top: Miles Bouckoms, courtesy of Media Hamptons

NANCY KANE

359 Meadow Lane, Southampton

9 Hither Lane, East Hampton

level you’ll find a fireplace in the bathroom of the guest suite. A billiard room, screening room and outdoor living space overlooking the heated gunite pool with a spa, and a pool cabana with a wood-burning fireplace make this an ideal home for entertaining. You’ll want to show off the meticulously manicured grounds, all less than a mile from the ocean and moments from village charms.

At 359 Meadow Lane in Southampton, Michaela Keszler and Paulina Keszler of Douglas Elliman have a listing that is sure to turn heads. With over 700 feet of direct frontage on Halsey Neck Pond and spectacular ocean views, the Swans Crossing estate features a 7,000-square-foot home just across from the Atlantic. Future residents of the 5.6acre property, situated in the estate section of the village, will enjoy spectacular waterfront wildlife and stirring sunrises. A long, gated driveway leads to a contemporary, 5-bedroom, 6-bath residence complete with a tennis court and pavilion, a pool with a spa, and a pool house with a full kitchen and bath, as well as a pair of 2-car garages, one of them complete with full staff quarters and air-conditioned storage. There are also approved permits set in place, which will allow you to expand or build your own home. Asking $25 million.

With a house as iconic as her haircuts, celebrity stylist Sally Hershberger’s 2-bedroom on Masthead Lane in East Hampton, known as the Butterfly House, has come to market. The mid-century style gem with an inspired 1970s design features a glass wall exterior, clean lines and open spaces. The home comes with the potential for 4 bedrooms; it currently has 2.5 baths, plus a family room with fireplace. Soaring ceilings with skylights bring the outdoors in. A lush

landscape has open spaces of indigenous grasses, rolling lawns and specimen trees. Close by, three deeded water access paths lead to private beaches on Gardiners Bay. The listing is with Kathy Konzet of Sotheby’s International Realty, asking $2,995,000.

A fashion executive who once ran J.Crew has listed his home on Upper Seven Ponds Road in Water Mill with Mala Sander at Corcoran, asking $6.75 million. On just under 3 acres, the 7-bedroom (including staff accommodations) has a gated entry and long driveway surrounded by landscaped grounds. A grand foyer leads to a great room with cathedral ceilings and fireplace. Inside, a formal dining room, chef’s kitchen and cozy den with fireplace and full bar set the scene for entertaining, while a covered deck outdoors seats 30 guests for dining, backlit by a rolling lawn with custom lighting. There’s an apple orchard, a heated pool with a cabana, a pool house, a gym and room for a tennis court—a love match for sure.

204 Upper Seven Ponds Road, Water Mill

6 Masthead Lane, East Hampton

GLOW

When used in skin care, lavender can tighten pores, decrease swelling and confer a healthy, youthful radiance.

Antony Bec

HOMEGROWN GOODNESS

Hamptons Aromatherapy harvests the fruits of sea and land.

BY REGINA WEINREICH

Lori MacGarva glows as she talks about her company, Hamptons Aromatherapy, and it’s not only because she’s bathed in her signature Golden Oil. At the recent Purist Health Fair in Southampton, surrounded by fans of her massage butters, sea salt scrubs, hydrosols and lip balms, she beams with pride, speaking about her products’ origin story, from farm and sea to body.

“We cook our own plant material for four to six hours for one batch, giving us maybe 5 gallons,” says MacGarva. “We don’t just add water. We take our plant materials and incorporate that into our products.” While other brands simply add drops of essential oil into distilled water, “we get the pure essence of plants by cooking them,” says MacGarva. “The chemical compounds of the plant come through the water. That is actually why I became obsessed with this. Each property that a plant can offer you is enormous. Lavender for calming. Rose for anxiety. Geraniums, seaweed, we have a term called CAKE—vitamins C, A, K, E. If you go back to medieval times, everything was cured by plants. We have to get back to using more plants for our bodies.”

Prior to moving back to East Hampton, where her family lives, MacGarva worked in the fitness industry. A professional dancer, she taught exercise for Gilda Marx, Jane Fonda and Lucille Roberts. She opened a studio, Physical Attraction.

For 15 years, she says, “I exercised some of the most amazing people who came to this community.”

In the ’80s, she met a woman who introduced her to essential oils, when few were into the practice of aromatherapy. She created a body oil, to this day her go-to for relaxation after a hot shower. If alchemy can be defined as distilling baser metals into gold, Golden Oil is the perfect name for the balm that started her off in this homegrown enterprise.

Needing more space for their expanding vision, she and six others recently bought an old duck farm in Eastport. Each works in either aquaculture or agriculture; her aromatherapy will be based here, plus, there’s a beekeeper, a grapeseed oil maker, and two baymen working with oysters and kelp, and her niece is experimenting with creating fabric out of oyster shells and kelp. Even Hamptons Aromatherapy’s bags are made with repurposed ocean plastic.

“We bought this farm collaboratively so all these young people can have an opportunity to do what they want to pursue—agriculture and aquaculture,” says MacGarva. “The town of Southampton has been an amazing support in the interest of preserving and encouraging us with the use of this farm.” It’s part of an industry out east that includes such locales as Amber Waves, Quail Hill and others, holding development at bay. hamptonsaromatherapy.com

Hamptons Aromatherapy’s products are all eco-friendly and sustainably sourced.

Lori MacGarva

UNLIMITED EARTH CARE THE BALANCE OF COLORS

PURE PICKS

Celebrity cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank shares his summer favorites.

“A summer essential: PFRANKMD UV Shade is a tinted, silicone-based mineral sunscreen that not only provides a cosmetically elegant physical sunblock, but also evens out skin tone. I use it as both a daily sunscreen and at the beach.” UV Shade, $70, PFRANKMD Fifth Avenue and West Village locations

“A Nigel Curtiss sport coat is a summer staple that can be dressed up or down based on the event. I like to wear it with a white T-shirt and jeans.”

Men’s unconstructed cashmere jacket in light gray, $1,800, nigelcurtiss.com

“During the summer, I tend to overindulge while enjoying my downtime. My Oura ring tracks my physiology, helping me maintain a healthy balance.”

Horizon in gold, $499, ouraring.com

“For me, summer is about looking and feeling your best while unwinding with friends and family. These are some of my must-haves for a successful and fun season.”

“GrandPrix Sneakers are a summer and travel essential because they are ideal to wear as dress sneakers or for long walks—really any occasion.” Men’s GrandPrix sneakers in asphalt, $245, grandprixoriginalsusa.com

“Marie Eiffel on Shelter Island has the best egg sandwiches in the Hamptons. Arrive at 8AM when the store opens, and enjoy it while sitting on the dock.” Organic egg sandwich, $5.50, marieeiffelmarket.com

“Emface is a great noninvasive facial tightening procedure that can be done as a one-off before an event, or as a series for a longer-term lifting and firming result.” Emface, $4,500 for a series of four, pfrankmd.com

Headshot Courtesy of Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank

NEXT-LEVEL CLEAN

Très Jolie! A new reason to sing in the shower. BY

JULIA SZABO

What if the solution to many vexing beauty challenges— from dry skin to brittle, shedding hair, flaky scalp and split ends—could be as simple as purifying the water in which we shower? Disrupters Ryan Babenzien and Arjan Singh dared to pose the question: “We all know to filter the water we drink, but why not the water we shower in?”

The result of their inquiry—especially timely now, with heightened awareness of forever chemicals in the water supply—is Jolie, a beauty wellness company with a filtered showerhead that removes chlorine and heavy metals from our shower water.

By evicting the toxins—notably chlorine and heavy metals from plumbing pipes—that pollute and weigh down tap water, the Jolie filtered showerhead turns any bathroom into a mini-spa experience that actually boosts favorite hair and skin care products’ power to deliver beautiful results. (That’s music to the ears of beauty junkies, who budget between $2,900 and $3,800 for beauty expenses annually.)

Around the country, customers are signing up to try the product, with the promise of full money back in 60 days if not completely satisfied. (The product costs $165 if purchased without a subscription for filters, or $148 with the subscription.) That offer has paid off for Jolie, with delighted

customers readily committing to a subscription at $33 once every three months (37 cents per day). And like a glee club of shower singers, they’re belting Jolie’s praises. “Jolie was the key to having the soft and shiny locks that I’ve longed for,” says one happy user.

Many seniors with delicate skin, fearing the unpleasant aftereffects of a hard-water shower, balk at a daily ablution regimen. Joan Surindar Selhi is 80 years young; she’s also Arjan Singh’s beloved grand-mère (French for grandmother). “It is essential to stay away from harmful contaminants. Therefore, the Jolie shower head has an effective distribution of filtering purified water and is fairly easy to maintain and manage on your own,” she says (another plus). “It is also stylish, and the purified flowing stream of the water is calming and soothing for your hair and body.”

Surindar Selhi’s visionary grandson chimes in: “My mom would often get hives after taking a shower, so I gave her the first prototype of Jolie to use. Being a skeptic, she wasn’t convinced—until about five months later, when she traveled to LA with my dad, and they didn’t have a Jolie with them. Immediately, my mom’s hives came back. I’ll never forget that day when she called me to say, ‘Arjan, this thing works!’” jolieskinco.com

Courtesy of Jolie

The Jolie filtered showerhead removes heavy metals and other toxic materials.

“

TO PLANT A GARDEN IS TO DREAM OF TOMORROW.”

– Audrey Hepburn

WE E K | E ND

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DIANA FRANK

Long Island native and polo star

Slaney O’Hanlon

Long a symbol of prestige and tradition, polo in the Hamptons traces its roots back to the early 20th century when wealthy New Yorkers brought the sport to their summer estates. Ralph Lauren, whose brand is synonymous with the preppy, equestrian lifestyle, once remarked, “Polo represents a way of life that is elegant and timeless, a sport that captures the spirit of adventure and the pursuit of excellence.” With professional polo player Nacho Figueras as a brand ambassador and model, the Polo Ralph Lauren label embraces the game as an integral part of the Hamptons’ identity. In recent years, women have notably become the fastest-growing demographic in polo, with Argentinians being the top-ranked players in the world. In the Hamptons, Slaney O’Hanlon is leading a quiet revolution, transforming polo into a more inclusive and dynamic sport for women, breaking down barriers and redefining tradition.

The only professional at the Hamptons Polo Club, located in Water Mill, O’Hanlon discovered the sport at the age of 16, growing up in Manhasset. “The first time I tried polo, I couldn’t even hit the ball,” O’Hanlon admits. Fortunately, failure did not deter her from getting back in the saddle. “I played sports my whole life. Nothing compared to the connection with a horse. The best polo

FULL GALLOP

How Slaney O’Hanlon revolutionized the Hamptons’ polo scene. BY ANNELISE PETERSON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DIANA FRANK

players are great horsemen with a deep respect for their ride.”

Recruited by Garrison Forest, an all-girls boarding school in Maryland, O’Hanlon became a polo sensation, crediting her mentor Esteban Scott as well as Carina Clarkin and Sunny Hale for paving the path for women on the polo field. “A lot of people think polo is an exclusive world that’s off-limits to most,” says O’Hanlon. “The support of executive partners Jessica Sailer Van Lith and Alainn Bailey at the Hamptons Polo Club has been instrumental in championing the evolution of polo from a boys club to a more inclusive and accessible sport for everyone.”

As Ken humorously remarks in the blockbuster Barbie, “To be honest, when I found out the patriarchy wasn’t about horses, I lost interest anyways.” This sentiment captures the changing tides in polo, where a loosening masculine grip on the reins ushers in a new era of diversity and inclusion. With women like O’Hanlon leading the gallop, polo in the Hamptons has become an equal opportunity sport, celebrating both tradition and progress. Watching O’Hanlon on the field shows that nothing is more empowering than a confident woman charging down the field with a goal in mind, exemplifying strength, grace and determination.

Slaney O’Hanlon

GOLD STANDARD

For decades, Reinstein Ross Goldsmiths has been the top jeweler for discerning New Yorkers. Elevate your accessories— and your mood—with its one-of-a-kind works of art. Purist spoke with the brand’s head goldsmith and recently installed company president. BY RAY

ROGERS

RAY ROGERS: In the ’80s and ’90s, Reinstein Ross on Prince Street in Soho was the place where everyone went for their engagement and wedding rings— myself included. How did it attract such a core following from the start?

JUDITH HOETKER, HEAD OF GOLDSMITHS AND PRODUCTION: I believe that it was the combination of the personalized shopping experience, the possibility of customization of the piece, and the unusual techniques, golds and stones used.

RR: One of the things that makes Reinstein Ross so special is that everything in the store is handmade. How has craftsmanship played a pivotal role?

JH: From the beginning, the hand fabrication of every single piece has been an essential component of the brand, along with the high-karat gold colors and unusual gems. These three things, combined with the vision of our founders, Susan Reinstein and Brian Ross, are the DNA of the brand. RR: Sara, you’ve had some very high-profile collaborations recently. What was it like to work with Venus Williams and Victor Cruz?

SARA PILOT, PRESIDENT OF REINSTEIN ROSS: Both Venus and Victor are driven and passionate perfectionists who admire the art and precision of goldsmithing. As intense athletes, their focus on the field mirrors their dedication to designing jewelry. Collaborating with them felt perfectly aligned with our DNA. We are always interested in partnering with likeminded individuals or brands because our story is about originality, creativity and uniqueness. Few goldsmith-based

jewelry companies can offer customers the chance to say, “I’m wearing a one-of-akind piece,” and to me, that is our magic.

RR: What are the hottest items for summer/fall of 2024?

SP: These are the trends we are seeing for 2024: Stacking remains a defining style, whether it’s earrings, rings, necklaces or bracelets, with artful layering creating a refined, personalized look. The use of colored stones in unusual shapes adds a sophisticated vibrancy, while high-karat gold, particularly 22-karat, imparts a sumptuous quality to modern jewelry.

RR: How does wellness factor into what you do at the brand?

SP: Jewelry in modern times serves multiple roles beyond adornment. Objects created by Reinstein Ross Goldsmiths, for example, can evoke a sense of beauty and craftsmanship that encourages reflection. People always recognize our jewelry for its distinctive craftsmanship and handmade feel, which adds to its allure and makes it a cherished piece in anyone’s collection. Moreover, our jewelry often sparks interesting conversations because each piece has a unique story behind it. Whether it’s the inspiration drawn from nature, the meticulous process of creation or the symbolic meaning imbued into the design, there’s always a narrative waiting to be shared. In this way, jewelry becomes not just an adornment, but a vehicle for storytelling and connection, enriching the wearer’s experience and fostering meaningful interactions. reinsteinross.com

Courtesy of Reinstein Ross

The practice of “stacking” multiple pieces of jewelry is trending.

All of Reinstein Ross’ pieces are handmade.

PURE PICKS

Kristina Blahnik, CEO of her uncle Manolo’s iconic shoe empire, shares her go-to style and well-being selections.

“I am quite passionate about wellness on every level, and that includes taking care of my skin. La Prairie is my go-to and is also a favorite of my uncle’s.Their serums are truly the gold standard for skin that feels refreshed and renewed.” La Prairie Pure Gold Radiance Concentrate, $935, laprairie.com/en

“I love to take group fitness classes, and always wear something casual and comfortable for the walk home. Susa is the perfect sandal to pop in my bag on my way out the door so that I can still feel put-together while walking through the city after class.” Susa sandal, $845, manoloblahnik.com

Susa

“Nothing clears my thoughts and boosts my mental health better than organizing my to-do lists, reminders and important notes all in one place. I never go anywhere without my beloved Smythson notebook in my favorite color, red. Mental health is absolutely essential to overall wellbeing, and I love to encourage those around me to find what it is that calms their mind.The Mental Health Foundation, whom we work with often, has an incredible resource page for anyone who may be struggling.” Smythson notebook, $78, smythson .com; mental health resources, mentalhealthfoundation.org

“Summer time to be London; much going take a to time with friends, and to focus on what is coming next.”

“Summer is an amazing time to be in London; there is always so much on. I also try and take a moment to breathe, spend time with family and friends, on what is next.”

“I often take my dog, Poppins, for walks when I am at home in the countryside. It helps me not only stay active in between busy work-fromhome days, but also clears my thoughts and motivates me to cross off items on my to-do list.Veralli is the perfect shoe to wear when I want to look sleek but stay comfortable.” Veralli ballet flat, $725, manoloblahnik.com

“Whenever I travel, I look for the nearest Barry’s Bootcamp class. Keeping up with my wellness routine while in different parts of the world is so helpful to combat any bouts of jet lag I may have, and makes me feel ready to tackle my often very busy schedule.” Barry’s Bootcamp membership, prices vary, barrys.com

“It is so important to smile from head to toe, and my Maysale mules always make me do just that.The vibrant colors and patterns of Maysale are always fun little treasures in each new season, and there’s a heel height for everyone!” Maysale suede kitten heel mule, $795, manoloblahnik.com

The

little things we do every day make an “A”mazing difference

We are honored to have earned the nation’s top distinction for patient safety, an “A” from the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade. The “A” recognizes our high standards in patient safety. This “A” grade belongs to every one of our team members, who work 24/7, year-round, to ensure our patients’ safety.

The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is an elite designation from

The Leapfrog Group, a national, independent watchdog that sets the highest standards for patient safety in the United States.

PURE PICKS

Founder and CEO of Crescala Collective Jodi Sandman’s Hamptons-inspired summer treasures.

“This go-anywhere wonder teems with luxe summery fun and frolic.The artfully cross-woven, premium-quality leather set off by a uniquely sculptured polished brass handle adds a chic, beachy Hamptons vibe to any look. For this price, you’ll want to treat yourself to the other available colors, too.” White leather Hazel Hobo bag, $398, walterbaker.com

“A cropped bolero jacket is a must-have this resort season, and this is the one to have. Impeccably finished, visually stunning and sublimely wearable, this jacket puts some sparkling sizzle into your sultry summer days and evenings.” Cesar Galindo sequined cropped bolero, $1,595, available through the Crescala Collective showroom, connect@crescala.com

“The Miami shirt is the perfect pin-tucked shortsleeve blouse to create clean, nautical vibes— the perfect seafaring complement to jeans or a long linen skirt.” Miami shirt, $316, karnitaharoni.com

“Summer

in the Hamptons is a celebration of life and all its beauty. Here are a few items for feeling and looking fabulous, elevating your joie de vivre and making your East End living easy and breezy.”

“Keep bad juju away and fill your world with healing energy. When burned, these all-natural smudge sticks release a heavenly fragrance with tranquil woodsy whispers of vanilla, pine and citrus. Ahhhhh…” Ecuadorian Palo Santo Eco-Luxe Palo Santo smudge sticks, $16, maisonpalosanto.com

“Buddha to Buddha’s artfully designed handcrafted jewelry celebrates life, rebirth, and the events and milestones that make us who we are.The perceptible weight of the exquisitely made Chain Big bracelet is a beautiful reminder of where you’ve been and how far you’ve come.” The Chain Big silver bracelet, $899, buddhatobuddha.com

“These luxuriant out-on-the-town slippers combine worldly ancient tradition and modern designer style to beautiful effect.The handfinished leather slippers are clad in regal kutnu fabric, woven by Turkish artisans since the 16th century.” Striped slides, $190, en.kutnia.com

Headshot by Erin Mayo

STRIKING DESIGN. POWERFUL ENGINE. EVERY CONVENIENCE. THE 2025 BMW X5 IS READY FOR YOUR ADVENTURE.

Wherever you’re headed, the 2025 BMW X5 will get you there in style. Peak comfort, dreamy sanctuary colors, standard smart safety features and available hands-free driving, the BMW X5 models stay ahead of the curve so you can stay present in the moment.

There are no limits to confidence when you’re driving a BMW X5. Enjoy the precision of Dynamic Damper Control, standard on all models, or your choice of Adaptive M Suspension or 2-Axle Air Suspension, available on select models.

This is the Ultimate Driving Machine.®

Test drive your BMW at BMW of Southampton, where you can expect us to exceed your expectations.

EDITOR’S PICKS

Purist founder Cristina Cuomo shares her must-have fashion and lifestyle selections for a fresh and glowy end of summer. PORTRAIT BY DIANA

FRANK

“Plant-based Corpus shampoo and conditioner fortifies hair with rice protein and vegan squalane and incorporates ingredients like cypress, vetiver, cedar and bergamot.” Cypress shampoo, corpusnaturals.com

“The Chill, Cryo-Chamber will age you back a bit with a good detox, an increase in collagen production, a reduction in inflammation and a boost to your immune system and endorphins.” The chill, cryo-chamber, casaciprianinewyork.com

“Align with nature-considerate ideas that will keep you glowing inside and out.”

“MCM is back with a beautiful classic collection, and this Diamant shoulder bag is a travel must.” Diamant 3D shoulder bag in calf leather, us.mcmworldwide.com

“The Jolie edits out chlorine, heavy metals and other contaminants, which all contribute to skin and hair issues.” Jolie Skin Co, jolieskinco.com

“Flyte’s water gong with pure sonic magic is a sound sculpture, and will take you on an authentic sound journey.” Water gong, flytestore.com

“Seaav ocean-friendly activewear made of recycled plastic is the future.” Seaav activewear, seaav.com

PURE PICKS

Paula Sanders, host of World’s Your Oysta podcast (@worldsyouroystapodcast), shares her beauty and self-care essentials.

“The Mini Knot Mixed Earring by Heaven Mayhem is my favorite summer accessory.These silver-and-gold earrings are perfect for being on camera for my podcast.They allow me to accessorize quickly for a polished look with minimal effort.” Mini knot mixed earrings, $90, heavenmayhem.com

“You haven’t experienced a truly luxurious at-home blowout until you’ve used one of La Bonne Brosse’s brushes. My top pick is the N. 01 for achieving the shiniest, sleekest blowout imaginable.” La Bonne Brosse N.01, $168, labonnebrosse.com

“I adore this perfume because it makes me feel feminine and powerful, blending floral notes with a touch of vetiver. I save this for those days when I need an extra boost of confidence, and it always does the trick.” Parfums de Marly delina exclusif, $395, us.parfums-de-marly.com

“You can’t pour into others’ cups if yours is empty, and these are the essentials that fill me up so I can show up as my best self every day.”

“To feel my best every day, health is top priority. Incorporating Cowboy Colostrum for its gut health and immunity benefits has been essential.”

Nature’s Gold: vanilla colostrum, $67, cowboycolostrum.com

“Spending just 10 minutes daily on activations through the Superhuman app has transformed my mindset and overall well-being, allowing me to show up as a better wife, mentor, colleague and host for my podcast.This app helps you harness the power of intentional thinking, making it easier for you to realize your best future self.” Superhuman app, from $30 a month, superhuman.app

“As a woman who loves ritual and routine, I’ve integrated three minutes of dry brushing followed by a three-minute cold shower to eliminate morning sluggishness, and it has completely transformed the start to my day.Tronque’s Ionic Dry Body Brush isn’t just stylish and user-friendly; it also generates negative ions that ground your energy as you brush. I was skeptical, but trust me, you’ll need one less espresso after this one.” Ionic dry body brush, $70, tronque.com

Headshot by Amy Lombard

PURE PICKS

Neha Dani unveils how Himalayan retreats inspire her exquisite jewelry designs.

“As I walk along the mountain stream that flows nearby, my eyes are drawn to the flora under rocks and in the crevices of trees. Inspired by these algae are the Jolene earrings, centered with Australian black opals, accented with diamonds and tsavorites.” Jolene earrings, $37,000, nehadani.com

“The vibrant colors of Himalayan flowers are carved in agate to create the delicate Okimi earrings. Set in titanium and surrounded by diamonds, they are a surprising asymmetrical pair, each one unique and beautiful.” Okimi earrings, $28,000, nehadani.com

“The Alsek ring reflects the glitter of glacial ice of the Himalayan peaks in its blue moonstone surrounded by icy diamond baguettes.”Alsek ring, $21,500, nehadani.com

“My creations are born from times spent in quiet reflection on retreats—a symphony of nature’s splendor and cosmic powers, which transform my serene wanderings and spiritual beliefs into radiant jewels.”

“Exploring the surrounding hilly forests, I picked up leaves of different shapes and colors, fascinated by their veins and folds.The Karesa cuff was born from this meditative walk, sculpted in rose gold and set with brown diamonds. It is designed to wrap the wrist as a leaf would, unfurling to reveal a natural baroque pearl nestled in its core.” Karesa cuff, inquire online for price, nehadani.com

“As the warm season unfolds, I look forward to a serene vacation at a beautiful retreat, The Kumaon, in the Himalayas. Amidst the inspiring views of snow-capped mountains and the beauty of nature, I spend meditative moments in the lap of quiet luxury, drawing inspiration for my art. The Kumaon, prices vary, thekumaon.com

SNEAK PREVIEW

The Hamptons International Film Festival unveils its ﬁrst slate of titles for the 32nd annual celebration of movie magic.

Moviegoers are in for another eyepopping, soul-stirring festival this October 4-14, when the Hamptons International Film Festival lights up the town. Kicking things off is the East Coast premiere of Martha “It feels only fitting that we open this year’s event with a portrait of Martha Stewart,” says Anne Chaisson, HamptonsFilm executive director. “We are delighted to welcome Martha—a truly trailblazing cultural figure and an East End resident of more than three decades—back to the Hamptons community with open arms and give her space to graciously share her inspiring story with us all.”

That’s just the first in a series of must-see documentaries on deck this year. —Ray Rogers

MARTHA (OPENING NIGHT)

East Coast Premiere

dir. R.J. Cutler (USA), 2024

The definitive documentary on Martha Stewart as told by the icon herself. From her early start on Wall Street to becoming the original influencer, Stewart continues to reinvent herself with each decade. A Netflix release.

A MAN WITH SOLE: THE IMPACT OF KENNETH COLE (WORLD CINEMA DOCUMENTARY)

World Premiere

dir. Dori Berinstein (USA), 2024

With heart and “sole” and unflinching determination, global fashion icon/ social activist Kenneth Cole has put “cause” before “commerce” for 40 years. His commitment to HIV/ AIDS, homelessness, LGBTQIA+ rights, social justice and mental health, has shattered stigmas, ignited social awareness, given voice to the voiceless, built coalitions and inspired action for good.

DAYTIME REVOLUTION (WORLD CINEMA DOCUMENTARY)

World Premiere

dir. Erik Nelson (USA), 2024

For one extraordinary week in February 1972, the revolution was televised. Daytime Revolution takes us back in time to the week that John Lennon and Yoko Ono descended upon a Philadelphia broadcasting studio to co-host the iconic The Mike Douglas Show, at that time the most popular show on daytime television, with a national audience of 40 million

viewers. What followed were five unforgettable episodes of television, with Lennon and Ono at the helm and Douglas gamely keeping the show on track. Acting as both producers and hosts, Lennon and Ono handpicked guests, ranging from musicians like Chuck Berry to comic George Carlin and consumer protection guru Ralph Nader. A Kino Lober release.

HOMEGROWN (FILMS OF CONFLICT AND RESOLUTION)

New York Premiere

dir. Michael Premo (USA), 2024

Homegrown is an unflinching chronicle of Americans at war with each other. Three right-wing activists—a newly politicized father-to-be in New Jersey, an Air Force veteran organizing conservatives in New York City, and a charismatic activist from Texas— crisscross the country in the summer of 2020, campaigning for Donald Trump and building a movement they hope will outlast him. When they become convinced that the election is stolen, they take their fight to the streets. The result is a chilling portrait of a growing movement pushing American democracy to the brink.

A Man With Sole: The Impact of Kenneth Cole

Daytime Revolution

LAB OF LUXURY

Upgrade your seasonal jewelry rotation with Unsaid’s unique and sustainable pieces. Purist chats with Unsaid’s Dana Stone, brand representative and gemologist.

PURIST: So many people have been talking about labgrown diamonds. What is the difference between lab-grown and mined diamonds?

Dana Stone: The only difference between lab-grown and mined diamonds are the conditions in which they are created. Labgrown diamonds have the same crystal structure and chemical composition as mined diamonds. As a graduate gemologist, I can’t tell the difference between a mined and a lab-grown diamond with my naked eye, nor with magnification.

PURIST: What are the benefits of buying lab-grown diamonds versus mined diamonds?

DS: There are two reasons for purchasing lab-grown diamonds. The first is the significant positive impact on our environment. To produce every 1-carat polished mined diamond requires over 7,300 liters of water; the process emits 352 pounds of CO2. In contrast, every 1-carat polished labgrown diamond requires just 1 liter of water and 26 pounds of CO2. Unsaid lab-grown diamonds are grown in the U.S. using renewable energy. Unsaid has earned a Butterfly Mark, the luxury industry’s leading sustainability certification. I make a lot of conscious choices in my life to benefit the environment, so for me it makes sense to choose lab-grown diamonds. The second reason is innovation. Throughout my long career in luxury jewelry, I have seen remarkable rare and exceptional gems, but never diamond jewelry quite like Unsaid’s. Our scientists, technicians and engineers push the boundaries of design, and produce innovative cuts that would be impossible to create with mined diamonds. Our lab-grown diamond cuts refract light and sparkle in spectacular new ways. Many jewelers copy

Inﬁnite demi pavé ring in rose gold, $6,135, unsaid.com

traditional jewelry designs using lab-grown diamonds for a lower price, but Unsaid does the opposite. We use lab-grown diamond material as a medium to create works of art in 18k gold. Our Rem X ring took two years to engineer and create. It was worth it, because it is spectacular.

PURIST: Who is Unsaid?

DS: Unsaid is a Parisian maison led by Ankit Mehta (CEO) and Philippe Nobile (chairman), who launched the brand in 2022 to pioneer new luxury. Supported by a team of global experts, Unsaid was launched in September 2022 followed by rapid international expansion across key markets: Le Printemps (Paris, Deauville), Dover Street Market (London, NYC, LA, Tokyo) and Saks (NYC and Palm Beach).

PURIST: What do you love most about Unsaid?

DS: The designs are inspired by human emotion. Unsaid interviewed hundreds of people and asked,“What are your life-defining moments?” From those interviews, designers created unique collections. One example is the stunning Phoenix collection, which is shaped from women’s stories about life challenges—maybe an illness or a loss, and how they rose above that painful period and eventually became empowered by it. The design features a gorgeous patented signature phoenix cut engineered by Unsaid. When I wear that collection, I tap into those incredible women who overcame their difficult challenges and I allow it to empower me.

Discover the Unsaid collection popping up at Sage and Madison in Sag Harbor on August 12-18, or reach out to dana@unsaid.com; unsaid.com

V I B R A N T

Bob & Dawn Davis

& Design

FIGHT THE FLU NOW

Change a few aspects of your daily life to help fend off fall and winter viruses.

BY DR. STACIE STEPHENSON

Whether you’re still basking in summer sunshine, or already in back-to-school mode, flu season may be the furthest thing from your mind. However, late summer to early fall is officially pre-flu season, and that means you have a unique opportunity to shore up your immune reserves before you really need them.

How do you do that?

The immune system consists of a complex network of reactions within and all through the body, especially in the gastrointestinal tract. It normally works quite well to fend off viruses, bacterial infections and even cancer cells, while also healing injuries and resolving illnesses. That is, as long as we don’t interfere with its functioning, which, unfortunately, many people do.

Common lifestyle habits can negatively impact immunity: Smoking may be among the worst, but also imbibing more than one or two alcoholic drinks in a day, eating a nutrient-poor diet, not getting enough sleep and maybe most significantly, chronic stress.

The good news is that you have the agency to get your immune system ready to take on fall and winter viruses simply by changing a few aspects of your everyday life. Here’s how to take the reins and give your immune system the support and nutrients it needs to function the way nature intended.

1 Drink less alcohol.

A glass of wine with dinner isn’t going to bring on the flu, but overindulging can make you more susceptible, especially over time. Excessive alcohol intake—which for women starts at just two or three drinks in one day—has long been associated with poorer immune function, including in the respiratory system. Scientists think this is largely due to alcohol’s effects on the digestive tract, including its impact on the composition of gut bacteria, which is significantly involved in immune function. Alcohol causes inflammation in the GI tract and also compromises

the friendly microbes that help establish and direct immune function, weakening immune defenses. If you really want to be ready for flu season, I advise limiting your alcohol intake to one drink, and not every day. If you save alcohol for special occasions only, all the better.

2 Eat an immune-friendly diet.

Food is your primary interface with your GI tract, and therefore, with important aspects of your immune system. Food can provide—or not—supportive nutrients, inflammation-quelling antioxidants or inflammationpromoting elements, and many other influences that can either support or interfere with an appropriate immune response. With every meal and snack, you get to decide how you want to treat your immune system. One of the worst things you can do for your immune system is to eat a lot of processed foods and refined sugar, which minimize nutrition and promote inflammation. Even a short period of poor eating, such as extra sugar and less fiber and nutrients over the holidays, can have a negative effect on immunity. Sugar in particular can be damaging. Specifically, a high-sugar diet can result in high blood sugar, which can cause systemic inflammation that weakens the immune system, making it hard to fight off infections.

One of the best things you can do is to eat a lot of high-fiber foods, which feed the friendly microbes in your microbiome. Antioxidant-rich foods, especially ones containing vitamin C, reduce inflammation and promote immune health. That means lots of foods with bright colors, like berries, dark leafy greens and citrus fruits, as well as dark chocolate (hooray!), salmon, olive oil, and nuts and seeds. Foods with probiotics—like yogurt, kombucha, kimchi and miso—also benefit microbiome and immune health. Probiotic and vitamin C supplements can provide an insurance policy and build an even firmer foundation for strong immunity.

“Research shows that chronic stress directly disrupts the immune system, which can lead in some cases to an overactive immune response—the basis of autoimmune disease—or decreased ability to fight off viral infections such as influenza.”

3 Prioritize sleep.

We spend a third of our lives sleeping—or, we ought to. For many of us, however, sleep often feels elusive. Yet, it’s incredibly important. Sleep has a profound effect on immunity, chronic disease, healing and inflammation. In other words, you don’t want to go into flu season sleep-deprived.

To help with sleep, I suggest improving your sleep hygiene by creating a calming evening routine, turning off screens and overhead lights at least an hour before going to bed, keeping the bedroom clean, cool and dark, and refraining from stressful activities in the evenings. Plan your next day so you can let go of worry, and if you can, watch the sunset. As the season progresses and the sunset gets earlier and earlier, you may find you get more sleep naturally, as your circadian rhythm gets into sync with natural light.

4 De-Stress.

The most disruptive element of lifestyle and health may be chronic stress. Stress is a part of life, and many people don’t see it as something they can do something about. It’s true that you can’t ever eliminate stress. However, if you never get a break from it, stress can begin to wear down your immune system reserves. Our bodies know how to respond to stress, but also require recovery time for optimal physical, mental and immune health.

You can build that recovery time into your day by taking time each morning and evening for short sessions of deep breathing, meditating, praying, just relaxing, decompressing, planning, dreaming, thinking, or just doing nothing at all. This was the subject of my recent book, Glow, which helps readers establish a twice-daily mental health break of just 15 minutes or so, to give the nervous system time to wind down and switch from sympathetic (fight or flight) mode into parasympathetic (rest and digest) mode. This recovery time is critical. Research shows that chronic stress directly disrupts the immune system, which

can lead in some cases to an overactive immune response —the basis of autoimmune disease—or decreased ability to fight off viral infections such as influenza. Just imagine: A few minutes to relax and de-stress each morning and evening could actually help you avoid the flu. That’s good medicine!

5 Quit smoking and vaping. Everybody knows smoking is bad for your health. Not only does smoking suppress the action of the cells that kill pathogens, but it can sap the body of vitamin C and alter the development of immune cells such as B cell and T cell lymphocytes. It also impairs the immune system’s ability to remember pathogens it has encountered before. However, if you vape, know that recent research suggests vaping also significantly impairs immune response, especially in the airways, which is exactly where you need it when you encounter a respiratory virus. In fact, inhaling anything, whether it’s smoke or vapor containing nicotine, THC or anything else, can damage the lungs and DNA, and make you more susceptible to respiratory infections such as influenza and pneumonia. For optimal immune function, the only thing you should be inhaling is clean air.

A few more key things to remember: Wash your hands frequently, especially before you eat. Get out of the habit of touching your face. And if you do catch a bug, try not to expose others.

Beyond commonsense strategies, some of these lifestyle changes may sound challenging, especially for those who are in the habit of drinking alcohol every day, eating processed food, staying up too late and living with chronic stress. However, my mission is to empower people to recognize that they really do hold much of their health destiny in their own hands. I hope that simply knowing better habits will prevent illness, missing work and being stuck at home multiple times. Do what’s good for all aspects of your health. Protect your immune system! drstaciestephenson.com

Bob & Dawn Davis Photography

Dr. Stacie Stephenson

FOOD IS MEDICINE

Chock-full of nutrients, beets contain antioxidants such as betalains that fight inflammation and cell damage, potentially lowering the risk of cancer and heart disease.

SUMMER’S SIMPLE PLEASURES

Create a seasonal feast with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. BY PETER SOM

When the lazy days of summer take over and farm stands are heaving with plump, sun-dappled produce, all one wants to do is…oh-so-very little. And that includes cooking. When there’s so much goodness at its peak, the less one does to it, the better. Honeyed floral melons only need to be peeled and adorned with buttery prosciutto and the sweetly acidic hug of ripe plums. The earthy caramelized

Beets and Feta Salad

This is one of those simple summer recipes that needs only a few things from the store (or farm stand) and the pantry, but the result is a gorgeous, pink-hued platter of food that’s perfect for an alfresco lunch or dinner. While there’s a rainbow of beets available during the season, for this recipe stick with red for that stunning deep color. The whipped beet and feta makes a perfect dip for crudités and a wonderful spread for sandwiches.

SERVES 4

INGREDIENTS:

1 pound beets

tenderness of beets is coaxed to life with the salty tang of feta. Sweet corn gets lavishly enrobed in the piquant flavor of pecorino Romano and the soft richness of butter, with a spicy kick of black pepper. So, let’s enjoy the here and now, the bounty of the season. Savor the splash of the pool, the pour of rosé, the smiles of friends and family. It’s all about the simple things, those perfect moments to savor.

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for finishing

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

16 ounces feta cheese, divided

2 teaspoons orange blossom water

1 teaspoon lemon zest

¼ cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped

¼ of a small red onion, very thinly sliced

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Mint leaves, for garnish

Za’atar, for finishing

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 400 F.

2. Peel beets and place in a baking dish.

3. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, then cover with foil and roast for 40 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of your beets, or until tender when pierced with a knife. Let cool and cut into bite-size wedges.

4. To a bowl of a food processor, add half the roasted beets, 8 ounces of feta, orange blossom water and lemon zest and blend until smooth. 5. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water to thin out as needed and blend until smooth and creamy.

6. Spread the blended beet and feta mixture on a platter, then arrange remaining beet wedges atop.

7. Add walnuts and red onion, then drizzle with lemon juice and a glug of olive oil.

8. Garnish with mint leaves, finish with za’atar and serve.

Prosciutto and Melon and More

Prosciutto and melon is an Italian classic where the marriage of buttery, salty prosciutto and the honeyed beauty of ripe seasonal melon combine for that quintessential summery bite. Here, I’ve added the sweet tartness of plums, a touch of balsamic glaze for a caramelized nuance, lemon zest for brightness and a hit of furikake seasoning for a gentle salty hit. This is the perfect simple warm-weather dish that’s ideal for lazy poolside lunches or dinners.

SERVES 6

INGREDIENTS:

1 large ripe but firm cantaloupe

1 to 2 ripe but firm plums

3 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto

1 tablespoon balsamic glaze

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

Lemon zest, for finishing Furikake, for finishing Mint leaves, for garnish

Flaky sea salt, for finishing

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Peel, seed and slice cantaloupe into thin wedges and arrange on a serving platter.

2. Pit and cut plum into thin wedges and arrange among the melon.

3. Tear each piece of prosciutto in half and arrange on the platter.

4. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil. Finish with lemon zest and furikake, then garnish with mint leaves.

5. Finish with flaky sea salt and serve.

A refreshing fruit and protein medley

Cacio e Pepe Elote

There’s nothing I love better than when the farm stands are bursting with local sweet summer corn. This recipe takes full advantage and adds the classic flavors of cacio e pepe for a completely delectable crowdpleaser that’s super easy to prepare. The most important ingredient to make this recipe shine is the signature flavor of European pecorino Romano—full-flavored and tangy, with a pleasant hint of salt. In a word, delicious!

SERVES 4

INGREDIENTS:

4 ears of corn, shucked 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened ½ cup freshly grated pecorino Romano cheese, divided 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper, plus more for finishing

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Cook the corn: Grill over medium-high, or boil in salted water for about 3 to 5 minutes or until cooked through.

2. In a small bowl, add butter, ¼ cup pecorino, Parmesan and black pepper and combine well using a fork or small spatula.

3. Liberally brush the cooked corn cobs with the butter mixture, then coat with the remaining cheese.

4. Finish each with another crack of pepper, then serve and enjoy!

Find more delicious recipes at petersom.com.

High in insoluble fiber, corn aids in digestion and gut health.

WHAT WELLNESS MEANS TO ME

Chef, TV host and The Comfort Table author Katie Lee Biegel finds summer the best for healthy living, eating and sipping. BY

RAY ROGERS

RAY ROGERS: What does wellness mean to you?

KATIE LEE BIEGEL: Wellness is all-encompassing. So that means taking care of myself, from physical health to mental health to emotional health. And that overall feeling of contentment and feeling good in my body.

RR: What are some of your wellness practices?

KLB: I think wellness really starts with what we eat. For me, the top of the pyramid is what I am eating, and I really make a commitment to have a colorful diet. I start my day with a big fruit bowl. I always have a big salad at lunchtime; I try to get lots of fruits and veggies in there. And sleep cannot be overrated. I love to go to bed early. I’m in bed at 9 or 9:30.

RR: What do you like to do for exercise?

KLB: I am a big power walker. As I’ve gotten older, I have had a harder time doing some of the higher intensity exercises I used to love. So now I’m power walking, I’m weightlifting, and I like to do some at-home workouts, online or a fitness class at home. I like to do a lot of stretching, so I usually will do that before I start a workout, or if I just need some time to relax.

RR: Where do you like to power walk when you’re out East?

KLB: We live in Southampton, and I just do a big power walk in my neighborhood. I have a little dog, Gus, a rescue chihuahua mix, and he goes with me. He’s 7 years old now and we have such a good time with him—he’s our little

Courtesy of Katie Lee Biegel

Katie Lee Biegel

family mascot. We live on the bay, so I end up swimming there quite a bit. And I love the bay. There’s nothing like it. It is just so peaceful and relaxing, and it is so great with kids to swim in the bay.

RR: Your daughter is turning 4 this September—what have you learned about wellness as a new-ish mom?

KLB: I have had to learn how to adjust my schedule and I have realized I can’t put myself first, obviously. I used to get up and go for a big beach walk, and then I’d go do an hour-and-a-half workout, then I’d surf all day. Now, I am lucky to get a 30-minute workout. I had to adjust my mindset about what my body should look like. I think that’s something a lot of women go through after having a child, and I learned to love myself in the way that I am now.

RR: Simplicity and comfort have been two hallmarks of your brand, and I’m curious how you apply that to summertime wellness in terms of cooking?

KLB: Summer to me is the very best time to cook because it can be so simple. I always try to get really high-quality ingredients and then not do very much to them. To be able to go out the door and go to Green Thumb, or North Sea Farms or Amber Waves and get this top-quality produce is just the best.

I like to get a beautiful tomato and spice it up with some really good extra-virgin olive oil and flaky sea salt, and I don’t need anything else. It’s the easiest time of year to eat healthy as well. I just love loading up on fresh produce and our fresh seafood. Everything on the East End is just so beautiful this time of year. It’s good for the soul. People think of comfort food as being big heavy food. But for me, comfort food is summer produce.

RR: You grew up cooking with the family from about age 4, inspired by your grandmother’s cooking. What do you hope to impart to your daughter in the kitchen?

KLB: I want my daughter to understand the joy of food and the joy of eating. She already loves cooking with me. We make pancakes really often, and we talk about food all the time. She definitely wants to eat all the food I’m making, and she’s definitely my harshest critic.

RR: Tell me a bit about your new Kind of Wild wine. KLB: It’s all organic, zero sugar, vegan, it’s free of any harmful additives or preservatives, and it’s on the lower calorie side. I’m really proud of this line, and it’s a line I want to drink. After having my daughter, I felt like I couldn’t even have one glass of wine without getting a headache the next day, but I really love having a glass of wine and being social and enjoying the ritual of wine. So, I started learning

more about organic wine, and it dawned on me: I’m buying organic grapes, why am I not drinking organic grapes? I made the switch, and really could feel a difference. Your body is not working so hard to process all these chemicals and additives. You can have up to seven [categories of] additives that can be legally added to a bottle of wine, including food coloring, flavor enhancers and enhancers to make it feel good on your tongue. The more I learned about it, the less I wanted to be consuming that. It’s one of the only consumables where the label isn’t required to list the ingredients. We put our ingredients and nutrition facts on the label because it is important to me to be transparent. And I’m just in love with this wine. It’s great with food, it’s great on its own. I like to start my day with the ritual of coffee, and I like to end my day with the ritual of wine.

RR: Where are the grapes grown?

KLB: Each of our varieties is from a different region. Our sauvignon blanc is from South Africa, our rosé is from the south of France, and we have a cabernet from Washington state. And then we are bottled in California. It is really important for us to be environmentally conscious, so we use lighter weight bottles, we don’t put foil around the top, the cork is domestically produced, our label is made from sugar cane, linen and hemp, and the coloring on it is a vegetable dye. And we’re One Percent for the Planet members.

RR: You said it is certified vegan—aren’t all wines vegan?

KLB: That’s what I thought too, but it turns out wine can be filtered through animal products—it can be filtered through egg whites, dairy products, even fish bladders.

RR: You’re a board member of Food Bank For New York City. What do you love about the organization?

KLB: I have been on the board for about 10 years, and I have been a fan of theirs for a lot longer than that. In the business I’m in, we have such an excess of food. When you’re doing cooking shows and writing cookbooks, there’s just an abundance of food. And to think about all the New Yorkers who are out there who are struggling, and are food insecure… I’m passionate about it, because we have to help our neighbors. It’s important to me to help anybody who can’t find enough to eat. And also, with Food Bank For New York City, we did a campaign together called the Woman to Woman campaign that I started eight years ago. I never realized that women go to food banks for their period needs, for toiletries—all these things that you really need to get ahead, but you can’t if you don’t have access to them. So, we support women with all their personal needs as well, and baby needs, like diapers and formula. kindofwildwines.com

A GALAXY OF DELIGHTS

East Hampton’s beloved Fresno turns 20 in fabulous style.

RAY ROGERS

Tucked away on a side street beyond the railroad station in East Hampton, Fresno, with its speakeasy-meets-Cheers vibe, is the kind of joint that feels like a secret a trusted friend has let you in on. “We’ve always been a destination from being in a fringey area—you don’t just walk past it and stumble in,” says Michael Nolan, who started the restaurant with business partner David Loewenberg in 2004 and took over sole ownership this past year.

To mark its 20th anniversary, and his new role, Nolan gave the place a glamorous overhaul. But true to form, it’s been done in an understated way that, he says, when some regulars will walk in, they’ll know something is different but can’t quite tell just what at first—or how dramatic the change is—“because it has the same heart and soul.”

Take a closer look. The main dining room is now enveloped in a rich shade of charcoal gray, Farrow & Ball’s Hopper Head—”It’s a sexy color,” assesses Nolan—with a galaxy of his partner Helen Gifford’s trademark HelenBilt blown-glass Clear Urchin pendant lights (12 in total) dotting the ceiling, adding visual allure. Another five of her hanging light fixtures (glass balls with champagne-bubble-like circles) are strewn above the bar and five more adorn the spacious outdoor patio.

“Taking full ownership and with the 20th anniversary, I’ve been able to act on impulse more and take risks,” says Nolan, seated at the front bar, sipping a Mayan Lemonade, a house-made nonalcoholic refresher with fresh lime and ginger inspired by his many trips to Tulum. He had a longheld vision for what Fresno might look like, inspired by the 10th Street Lounge, an old hot spot in New York City’s East Village. “The very back room there had all these pin lights at

different heights and it just looked so cool, like an installation. And when I met Helen, she had these lights that are urchins but they also look like stars. I said, ‘Let’s not do two lights; let’s do one big installation.’ They float like a constellation.”

The effect is quietly dazzling. As is the menu, bursting with fresh produce and seafood sourced from area vendors such as Balsam Farms in Amagansett, Marilee Foster Farm in Sagaponack, and Gosman’s Fish Market in Montauk. “They text every week and tell us what they have coming in, and we plan specials around that,” he says. Famed for its burgers and fan favorites like Buffalo cauliflower off its classic American-with-a-twist menu, Fresno specializes in elevated takes on comfort staples. Healthy options abound, including a grilled local maitake mushroom entree. “It’s comfortable and casual,” says Nolan of the ambience here. “There are no tablecloths but it’s still sharp.” And now, even sharper.

It’s a family-style operation where Nolan savors “building people up—the dishwashers are now salad guys; the salad guys are now chefs.” Much like how he worked his way up through the ranks himself—long before graduating from Cornell University’s restaurant and hospitality school, he started washing dishes at age 12 in the kitchen his father ran, J.G. Melon in Bridgehampton, where Almond is now. The biz was in the blood for this self-described “local boy who graduated Pierson High,” whose current house is a mile away from his childhood home in Sag Harbor. “Long ago, my grandparents owned a little restaurant in Sag Harbor, Cozy Corner, on the corner of Main Street and Washington—I still have some of the commercial pots and pans from there.” fresnorestaurant.com

Eric Striffler

Lighting designer Helen Gifford and Fresno owner Michael Nolan

The beverage program offers a lineup of creative cocktails and mocktails.

A constellation of HelenBilt lights hang in the dining room.

Fly Like an EGOT

Powerhouse Jennifer Hudson is ready to soar again.

By Jim Servin • Photography by Kennedi Carter

Chameleonic singer-actress-producer-talk show host Jennifer Hudson, 42, has entered legend-icon status. In 2022, she became the youngest woman and the third African American to win all four major American entertainment awards: Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony, also known as EGOT. The bubbly host of The Jennifer Hudson Show (just one of her facets—check out her robust, often gritty portrayal of Aretha Franklin in the 2021 film Respect) shares life in Chicago with her 15-year-old son, David, and rapper Common. From the Olympics in Paris, the day before she delivered a surprise vocal performance at Versailles, Hudson spoke with Purist about faith, fame, new music and her personal wellness protocols that include naps, shopping and chocolate—a life of celebration.

Hudson won over 30 acting prizes for her role in Dreamgirls

CAPE BY OFF-WHITE, EARRING BY LILLIAN SHALOM

JIM SERVIN: So much has happened in your life in a short amount of time, and you have stayed balanced and strong. What keeps you centered?

JENNIFER HUDSON: Mostly my faith and my upbringing— my mother’s and grandmother’s teachings. When I get stuck or confused, I say to myself, What would my grandmother or mother do? That helps get me through a lot. And keeping my faith in God.

JS: In your film, Respect, the Aretha Franklin biopic, there’s a moment where Aretha says something that seemed to resonate with you personally: “I need the church, I need the spirit. It has always gotten me through, and it will get me through again.” I don’t know if you remember when you said that line.

JH: Oh, I do. It definitely resonates with me as well. It’s amazing that stuck out to you. I’m similar in that way, having that faith and knowing you go to God. That’s what my grandmother and my mother would always say. And

competition doesn’t mean that I can’t go on. So, when Dreamgirls rolled around, it was a second chance. I took advantage of that opportunity. To this day I say, Give me the opportunity and I’m going to make it work. Every experience prepares you for the next.

JS: People say awards don’t mean anything, that it’s all about the work. But it must be fun to win them, too.

JH: It does feel nice. It gives you encouragement to keep going. Even if you don’t win, you remind yourself why you do what you do. Most of all, I do it for the love. I think that’s why I’ve been able to achieve so much. Not everything is going to be Dreamgirls, and if I sat and waited for everything to be Dreamgirls, I wouldn’t have a career. What drives me the most is being blessed to be able to do what I love every day. Even if I didn’t achieve all of these things, I would still be doing this. Which is why I don’t sleep much. I’m working and it’s like, well, if I wasn’t doing it, I would be sitting up dreaming that I was doing it. Do you

“I remember being in the bottom three on American Idol, and then being eliminated. I said to myself: Wait, I do this because I love it, and as long as I have my talent that doesn’t mean it’s over. I have my gifts, and just because I didn’t win this competition doesn’t mean that I can’t go on.”

Aretha said it.

JS: Any other takeaways from Aretha’s life that you’ve made your own?

JH: So many things. It was probably just seeing her make it through life and prevail, no matter what she went through. Before she passed, we used to speak often. During that time, I was just thinking she was saying things. But then when I started to portray her, I realized that she had been speaking to me from her life experiences. Telling somebody’s story, their testimony, can’t help but help your own life.

JS: You’ve earned critical acclaim in films like Dreamgirls, for which you won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress, and so many other awards. But your road to glory began with a very public loss on American Idol. Did that experience help you put the winning streak into perspective, and keep your equilibrium? Maybe it was better that you weren’t the American Idol champion, and then after that you got all the prizes.

JH: It definitely put things into perspective. I remember being in the bottom three on American Idol, and then being eliminated. I said to myself: Wait, I do this because I love it, and as long as I have my talent that doesn’t mean it’s over. I have my gifts, and just because I didn’t win this

know what I mean? I like to embrace it.

JS: How many hours of sleep do you get?

JH: Well, at JHUD Productions we sleep when we can, but make it count. Of course we need our rest. Know what your schedule is, and figure out when to get that rest in. Try to keep that balance so that you are rested physically, mentally and emotionally. Being here in Paris, taking naps throughout the day is helping me with jet lag.

JS: Are you shopping for fashion in Paris?

JH: Oh, I am a shopper. I chose to sleep this afternoon, but I can get to shopping again.

JS: Who are your favorite designers?

JH: I don’t think I have any one in particular right now. Honey, I shop from Target to Balenciaga to Louis Vuitton or whatever. It doesn’t even have to be a brand, or it may be a brand. I went to a shop out here and got me the cutest little jewelry pieces, had a ball. I bought a cute little stuffed elephant today, because it made me feel good. Little things like that just make me happy. It just does something for my spirit.

JS: When you wake up from your nap, or a night of sleep, is your first thought, “I’m an EGOT”?

JH: That is funny. You know what? I can’t say yes to that. I do have an EGOT ring, and an EGOT bracelet. I said I have

The multi-award winner attained EGOT status in 2022.

TOP BY ST. JOHN, SKIRT

BY ANNAKIKI, JEWELRY

BY TIFFANY & CO., HAT BY SARAH SOKOL MILLINERY/ THE RESIDENCY EXPERIENCE

to wear this at the Olympics, because someone has to represent the EGOT, and that would be me. I’m going to walk around with my medals today. But I don’t wake up and say, Hey, I’m an EGOT.

JS: Is there an official EGOT ring? Do they present you with one, or did you have one made?

JH: I had it made. I speak everything into existence, in some form. Before I won the Oscar, I got a dog and I named him Oscar, and then I won the Oscar. Then I got another dog and named him Grammy, and then I won a Grammy. Everybody started saying OK, she’s going to be an EGOT one day. And so instead of getting a dog or another animal to name Emmy and Tony, which were the two awards I needed to complete an EGOT, I made jewelry. So, I have an EGO ring. Then I had another ring made and added the T. Once I won the Tony (in 2022, as a producer of A Strange Loop, Best Musical), I bought a vintage Italian gold bracelet and had it engraved EGOT.

JS: I just watched you on YouTube accepting your

because I’m always singing. Everything I do, I sing.

JS: What are your wellness rituals?

JH: I find my inner peace walking. I’m an artist, so it can come out in being creative, like drawing, or shopping, which is therapeutic to me. I love affirmations. I love nature, sitting on park benches. Life is on pause on the bench. The world is working around you.

JS: Favorite inspirational quote?

JH: Right now it is—I keep saying it, I say it three times— “Every man is a golden link for my prosperity and my good.” Whoever I’m with, I say it and I make them say it and keep repeating it. That’s where I’m at right now.

JS: Strenuous exercise doesn’t appeal to you?

JH: No, I like things to be enjoyable. I don’t think everything should be in the gym and on a machine. I like to blend my worlds. I’ll take a walk where I’m enjoying nature and outside, but still being active and it’s fun. I play basketball with my 15-year-old son, David, and the boys. I love bike riding. I consider shopping to be exercise, as well.

“I find my inner peace walking. I play basketball with my 15-year-old son, David. I love bike riding. I consider shopping to be exercise, as well.”

Grammy (for Best R&B Album, Jennifer Hudson, in 2009) from Whitney Houston. People commented on how the first thing you did was hug her. It seemed important for you to hug this person you loved so much before taking the prize.

JH: Getting the Grammy from Whitney outshined winning the Grammy. Whitney Houston is my absolute favorite ever. So, you read it right.

JS: Where are you at creatively now? Are you back in the studio? Can you share any developments, inspirations?

JH: Right now I am in a very musical space. I literally go from industry to industry. I call this “my singing summer.”

Every day is a different song, and I’ve been around a lot of music, and it’s inspired me so much. I’ve never been more influenced by hip-hop. Afrobeat is my absolute favorite style of music. That’s resonating with me as well. Everything is pouring out of me that I love, and I’m loving seeing how it’s coming together. I’m trying to expand even beyond that, getting involved more from a production standpoint. I’m writing more. I normally always have a keyboard in my room, but I don’t have one with me here now in Paris. I always want one around, because when it comes to creativity, you never know when it’s going to hit.

JS: This will be your first album in 10 years.

JH: Apparently. I don’t believe that. That’s what you all say. Is that true? The reason why it doesn’t seem real to me is

JS: You famously lost weight—80 pounds in one year— and wrote a book about it, titled I Got This: How I Changed My Ways and Lost What Weighed Me Down. Are you still very conscious about your diet? What’s your favorite indulgence?

JH: My favorite indulgence will always be chocolate. I love milk chocolate. If you eat what you want, you won’t overeat. I like to make sure that I eat what I want. My mother used to say that when you get older, a little bit more weight looks better on you. So, I’ve allowed myself a little bit more weight. It’s not about losing weight. It’s being able to be whatever weight you want to be. I control it to my liking.

JS: On your talk show, The Jennifer Hudson Show, the colors of the set and your wardrobe are so playful. Is your home like that? Do you like a very vibrant environment?

JH: All of that is important. I’m sensitive to energies. You know what? I need the sun. When I was on The Voice, they used to call me Solar Panel. At home, it depends. Sometimes when I want calm, I don’t like it to be too bright. Most importantly, I love the outdoors. Even when I’m doing the show I say, Hey, I need to go sit out on a bench, or walk through a garden or ride my bike, as long as I get that sun, that brightness in the day.

The third season of The Jennifer Hudson Show begins airing in fall 2024.

Hudson is currently inspired by hip-hop and Afrobeat.

COAT BY SAINT LAURENT, NECKLACE BY JACK VARTANIAN

Philanthropic powerhouse

Per Norberg

Amy Green with her daughter, Giada.

THE GREEN VISION

For Amy Green, philanthropist and global ambassador for Tusk and Planetary Guardians, planning and hosting the Footprint of Life Gala in support of the environment answers an urgent call to action.

BY JIM SERVIN

Jim Servin: What led you and your husband, Gary Green, to launch The Green Vision, a philanthropic foundation dedicated to environmental conservation and aiding African communities?

You’re also a global ambassador for Planetary Guardians. You’ve had such an intriguing past—from a California upbringing, to an education and employment in science, to your own sports show on Fox Sports. Looking back, where were the seeds for philanthropy and concern for the environment planted?

Amy Green: The seeds of my concern for the environment were likely planted during my youth in California, where I developed a deep love for wildlife and the natural beauty around me. I have been fortunate to have numerous opportunities, and I have endeavored to make the most of each one. This perspective has deeply influenced my approach to The Green Vision, where our mission is to make a meaningful impact on the environment and the lives of those we touch. It is hard for me to fathom anyone not caring for the planet we all share. My hope is to inspire others to recognize the importance of environmental stewardship and to take action in their own lives.

JS: When you met your future husband, entrepreneur and sports team owner Gary Green, did you know about his interest in preserving the planet and anti-poaching?

AG: I didn’t immediately know about Gary’s deep interest in preserving the planet and anti-poaching efforts. It was something I gradually became aware of as we got to know each other better. Our early conversations about conservation were enlightening and inspiring. I remember being struck by his passion and commitment to these causes. We would talk for hours about our shared love for wildlife and

the importance of protecting the environment. Discovering this common interest in each other was incredibly special and brought us even closer. Gary’s dedication to conservation has profoundly influenced my own journey. Together, we have been able to support and amplify each other’s efforts in making a positive impact on the world.

My deep interest in Africa was sparked by its incredible biodiversity and the cultural richness of the continent. It is one of my favorite places to visit, offering unparalleled experiences that have influenced my perspective on conservation and philanthropy.

One of my most memorable trips to Africa was a visit to the Serengeti National Park. Witnessing the Great Migration was an awe-inspiring experience that left a lasting impression. The sheer scale of the event, with roughly 2 million wildebeest and other animals moving across the plains, was a powerful reminder of the intricate balance of nature, and the importance of preserving these ecosystems. During this trip, I had the opportunity to meet with local conservationists and learn about their efforts to combat poaching and protect wildlife habitats. Their dedication and passion further fueled my commitment to environmental advocacy, and inspired many of the initiatives we pursue at The Green Vision.

Africa holds a special place in my heart, and each visit reinforces my desire to contribute to the preservation of its natural wonders and support the communities that depend on them.

JS: You are a global ambassador to Prince William’s charity the Tusk Trust, which accelerates conservation in Africa. Tell us about that work.

AG: As a global ambassador for Tusk, I have had the privilege of supporting an extraordinary organization. Tusk’s dedication to protecting endangered species in Africa and advancing

educational initiatives is truly remarkable. Prince William’s generosity and support for this important work are commendable and greatly amplify Tusk’s efforts. It is an honor to be associated with such a passionate and effective organization, making a tangible difference in the fight to preserve our planet’s precious wildlife.

JS: This year’s Footprint of Life Gala benefit theme is 50 Shades of Blue. Tell us about your affinity with the sea, sky, “blue” properties of the planet, and your drive to protect them?

AG: The sea, sky and all the blue properties of our planet have always captivated me with their vastness and depth. The ocean’s boundless beauty and the sky’s ever-changing hues remind me of our planet’s incredible diversity and fragility. This connection fuels my commitment to environmental conservation, particularly in safeguarding these precious blue spaces from pollution and climate change.

JS: Last year’s Footprint of Life benefit theme was 50 Shades of Green. Please tell us about your connection to “green earth” and your current green environmental concerns.

AG: My bond with the “green earth” runs deep. It’s not just in the name of our foundation or my last name—it’s in every fiber of my being. The theme 50 Shades of Green embodies my unwavering passion for our planet and its incredible beauty.

Right now, I’m intensely focused on issues like deforestation, climate change and the urgent need for sustainable practices. Protecting green spaces, our diverse ecosystems, and ensuring a cleaner, healthier environment for future generations drives everything I do.

JS: Do you like blue or green themes in your personal style?

AG: I definitely lean toward blue themes in my personal style, reflecting my love for vibrant, watery colors. I’m especially fond of aquamarine stones

Green’s love for the environment was shaped by her upbringing in California, and her later travels abroad.

Photography on this page and cover: Diana Frank Makeup: Henry De La Paz

and hues that evoke the sea and sky.

JS: How has being a mother of two beautiful daughters, Giada Viola and Gemma Jade, energized your drive to preserve the planet?

AG: Becoming a mother to Giada and Gemma profoundly shifted my perspective. After a long journey to motherhood, I knew I had to do everything in my power to ensure that my daughters can experience and cherish the beauty of our world.

JS: Jane Goodall is on the Footprint of Life team as a Guardian. How does she inspire you?

AG: She’s a profound inspiration. Her pioneering work with chimpanzees and her unwavering commitment to conservation highlight the significant impact one person can have. Meeting her in person was a memorable experience. Her warmth and dedication deeply motivated me and strengthened my resolve to protect our planet and its wildlife.

JS: The tagline of the party is: “It’s not just a gala, it’s a movement.”

AG: The tagline highlights that the event is more than a celebration. It’s about raising people’s vibrations, inspiring them and making them feel like they can be part of the solution. Our goal is to ignite a collective commitment to environmental conservation and drive meaningful action for a sustainable future.

JS: Does your connection to the earth inspire your wellness regimen?

Have you revisited the raw food cleanse you wrote about on Instagram this spring?

AG: Being in tune with nature motivates me to embrace a holistic approach to health, which includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and mental well-being. I’m a pescatarian; I grow my own vegetables and fruit, being very conscious about what I put into my body. I also enjoy the Medical Medium, and often cook his recipes for my family. It feels

good to be healthy and balanced, nurturing my body, mind and spirit in harmony with the natural world.

JS: What is it like sharing this project with your husband?

AG: Collaborating with him is a wonderful experience. He’s incredibly supportive. I tend to lead the charge, driven by my passion for bringing amazing people together and watching those connections flourish.

We each bring different strengths to the table. I focus on the vision and coordination, while he helps with the practical aspects and supports the overall process. Balancing these responsibilities can be challenging, but we ensure it doesn’t become overwhelming by maintaining clear communication and setting manageable goals.

JS: What is essential for a gala to be a success, as both a party and as a philanthropic mission?

AG: For a gala to be a success,

both as a party and a philanthropic mission, genuine belief in the cause is essential. It’s not just about the event itself, but about creating special moments that resonate with everyone involved. If you have passion for the cause, it will always come together because your intentions are pure.

I’ve been bringing people together for years, and have developed a keen eye for details. My experiences have taught me that understanding the essence of the cause and creating meaningful experiences are key to a successful gala.

JS: What are your environmental concerns for the planet right now?

AG: My top environmental concerns include climate change, pollution, biodiversity loss, anti-poaching efforts and rainforest preservation. Education is at the forefront of conservation, driving awareness and action.

I’m proud to be with the Planetary Guardians, a global collective launched in 2023. They integrate science, Indigenous wisdom and the Planetary Boundaries framework to guide sustainable practices and protect our planet for future generations. This is extremely important work that can help save our planet from future catastrophic events. JS: Do you have a favorite inspirational quote?

AG: One of my favorites is from Robert Swan: “The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.” This quote underscores the importance of individual responsibility in environmental conservation. It reminds me that every action counts, and that we each have a role to play in protecting our planet. It motivates me to lead by example, and inspire others to take meaningful action towards sustainability.

The Footprint of Life gala takes place on August 15. To purchase tickets, go to: thegreenvision.org/ footprint-of-life-of-gala.

Green is a proud Global Ambassador for Planetary Guardians.

Amy and Gary Green with their two daughters, Giada and Gemma.

“I absolutely love my summer staple Saint Laurent bag. It’s hand-embroidered with natural raffia, fits everything I need and instantly makes every outfit look like it’s ready for a day in the sun.” Icare in raffia, $5,300, ysl.com

“I love all of The Harmonist’s products, but these two particular scents are my favorites. Golden Wood has fruity notes of pear with a zest of bitter orange, harmonized by comforting woody notes. It’s sensual yet sophisticated. Magnetic Wood, on the other hand, has citrusy notes of green mandarin with a powdery heart of mimosa and iris also intertwined with woody notes. The scent is elegant yet energetic.” Golden Wood, $285, and Magnetic Wood, $250, both by theharmonist.com

“The facials at Blue Water Spa are my absolute favorite. I always leave feeling relaxed, fresh and glowing. You cannot go wrong with any of them, but the Microcurrent antiaging facial is so unique, the tiny electrical impulses boost my collagen and give me a firmer, more youthful-looking lift.” The Microcurrent facial, $185, bluewaterspany.com

AMY GREEN’S SUMMER MUST-HAVES

“Briony Raymond is my top pick for luxury bespoke creations for every event. I love this particular ring as I feel it represents me in the middle, and my two daughters, one on each side.” The Jigsaw Sloan ring, pricing upon request, brionyraymond.com

“This is my go-to moisturizer in my nighttime skin care routine. It’s all natural and I wake up with visibly softer skin! I love the richness of it, without the greasiness.”

Crème Riche, $230, tataharperskincare.com

P L AY

OM, SHANTI!

Beloved studio Yoga Shanti celebrates 25 years of practice in Sag Harbor.

Founder Colleen Saidman Yee tells the story of how it began. BY

DONNA BULSECO

Twenty-five years ago, Colleen Saidman Yee had no intention of being a yoga teacher, despite her training at the now-legendary Jivamukti Yoga studio with founders Sharon Gannon and David Life. She had joined the Ford Modeling Agency as a model in 1980, and took her first yoga class in 1984, but felt ill-suited to standing in front of a group teaching a practice she found rigorous, spiritual and deeply satisfying. “I was way too green,” says Saidman, speaking via Zoom about the origins of Yoga

Shanti, her Sag Harbor studio, and ticking off the longago justifications she voiced to her mentors that day: “For one, there’s chanting and I’m tone-deaf; second, I don’t like speaking in public. Plus, I’ve got a seizure disorder, so what about that?!”

Sometimes in life, even denial can lead to acceptance, but wisdom doesn’t come easily or without challenges. When Saidman got home, she found a message on her answering machine (remember those?) from Sharon

Colleen Saidman Yee

“If there’s a global sadness going on, I would start you curled up in a ball, because that’s what your body wants to do at that time. I’m not going to start you draped over a bolster. We work step-by-step.”

Gannon. “She said, ‘You’re teaching my 6:15 class tonight. It’s sold out and I’ll be taking it,’ says Saidman. “I guess she knew what she was doing, throwing me off the cliff, because I still remember the yoga sequence I did. It was the first yoga class I taught, and I remember everything about it.”

In truth, Saidman has a steel-trap mind, and as a storyteller, she brings Yoga Shanti’s story alive in discrete, vivid details, recounting how in 1999, she and another Jivamukti teacher made the snap decision to open a yoga studio in Sag Harbor. “We went to an ATM, took out $500 each, and found a walk-up apartment behind Murf’s Backstreet Tavern on Division Street. It fit 22 students, was literally mat-to-mat-to-mat and busy from day one,” she says. “I still don’t know how people found out about us.”

After a year, the studio moved to Main Street, behind the kite store. “We could fit 35 people and it was like a sweatbox; our filing system was a recipe box!” Two years later, a move to Washington Street and an upgrade to a computer grew the business even more. After she and her then-business partner split, Saidman found the location on Bridge Street in 2009; the house was being built, so she could dictate the layout. “It’s like a jewel box,” she says, with pink and light orange walls, a gold-leaf ceiling, hand-carved borders and “an altar our son built”—the ‘our’ referring to her husband, Rodney Yee, a longtime leader in the world of yoga, who has been instrumental in bringing it into mainstream culture. The couple have four children: Evan, Adesha, Rachel and Johanna.

The altar holds pictures of

influential people in her life, such as Mother Teresa, whom she worked with for a year; her own mother, “a highly spiritual person”; Pema Chödrön, a Buddhist nun; and Bob Dylan, whose “lyrics have meant so much to me since I was a young girl,” says Saidman. These deeply personal tributes are indicative of how Yoga Shanti welcomes and acknowledges those who walk in or sign in (for an online class) with a call to engage.

“The fruit of love is service, the fruit of service is peace,” says Saidman. She keeps that in mind as every class starts with a dedication, “where we bring to our heart someone who needs a little juice,” she says. “That dedication creates a dynamic that’s different from an intention, which is like a New Year’s resolution.” The idea is to be present, rather than intending to be present. “If I intend to balance in headstand, for example, it’s probably not going to happen,” she notes. Yoga Shanti is an evolution of all the study she and Yee have done, and blends the many influences inspiring them over the years. “Rodney brought with him the Iyengar training, which focuses on specific alignment and more of an engineering of the body. Rodney is an engineer of the body.”

Most of all, Yoga Shanti practice focuses on the safety of the joints, the spine and the nervous system. “We want people to leave our class alert, but relaxed, so it’s a balance.” Saidman also does a lot of work with women, creating specific sequences for self-esteem for those who are anxious or overwhelmed.

“The language of the body affects so much,” she says. “For instance, if

you’re grieving or feeling sad, we need to meet you where you are. If there’s a global sadness going on, I would start you curled up in a ball, because that’s what your body wants to do at that time. I’m not going to start you draped over a bolster. We work step-by-step.”

Saidman was pleased when she heard a young man felt as if he were “levitating” during a class.

Levitating: uplifted and lifted up. That was the mood, too, at the “epic” party the studio held this year in the studio’s parking lot on June 21—the summer solstice, the International Day of Yoga and a full moon. Six hundred people took class for free that day; the community joined in; guests snapped photos in front of a step-and-repeat screen with an image of Ganesha, the deity for overcoming obstacles and new beginnings. “It was exhausting to put on, but so heartwarming for the whole community,” Saidman says, especially for the local vendors and students who had toughed out the pandemic alongside them. “It was a sanctuary, a milestone after the last four years. Everyone was making toasts, and every time someone would hug me, I would cry,” she says.

Still gorgeous, having reached retirement age as a glowing endorsement for a lifelong commitment to yoga, mindfulness and kindness, Saidman often stops to praise those who inspired her along the way. Her personal sanctuary, it seems, resides in her resilience, plus loving and energetic commitment. “I’m a business owner, with a work ethic like my father, who worked at a factory and raised seven kids,” says Saidman. “I respond almost immediately.” yogashanti.com

STRENGTH TO POWER

For Golden Gloves boxing champion turned celebrity trainer and body transformation expert Ngo Okafor, the focus is on sculpting physiques and lifting spirits. BY

Brawny, tough, with a rocksolid, results-driven approach to fitness training, along with a sympathetic ear and excellent conversation skills, Ngo Okafor says that over 70 percent of his clientele are women. One reason for the female-leaning ratio may have to do with Okafor’s public praise from Brooke Shields, who in 2020 raved on Instagram about results from his Transformation series. “She talked about how working with me changed her life, and changed how she saw fitness,” says Okafor.

Now, the former two-time Golden Gloves boxing champ is fine-tuning his training protocol to enhance benefits for his female clients: “My mission is to optimize every woman’s health, fitness and strength at any age and every stage of life,” he says. “In addition to making women fit and strong—physically and mentally—I focus on mom empowerment, confidence coaching and helping women reclaim their lives.”

Okafor’s own transformation story inspires. Born in Framingham, Massachusetts, and raised in Nigeria, he suffered through serious bouts with asthma, pneumonia and respiratory issues when he was a child. As a teen, his ailments healed, giving him a new lease on life and ambition to become fantastically fit. He moved to America, where he worked in IT as well as modeling: “I was Blabio, the Black Fabio, for a publishing company which put me on their romance book covers.” Okafor decided to learn how to box at the advanced age of 31, and became a Golden Gloves boxing champion, twice. Now he is driven to help other underdogs turn their lives around. “Client after client, talking with them, it’s like clockwork,” he says. “Once women get into their later years, they start feeling they don’t matter, that they’re not

JIM SERVIN

sexy. Nobody should ever feel that way. I start with a client by telling them to stop reading articles that say you can’t build muscle after a certain age. I’m 49 and still building muscle. If I can do it, you can do it. And I have the program that will get it done.”

Offered at his Iconoclast Fitness facility in the Flatiron district, Okafor’s revolutionary Transformation program (also available on Zoom, FaceTime or WhatsApp video) has a modality specifically tailored for women. “We do five sessions a week—three days for lower body, two for upper body,” he says. “Men’s and women’s needs are different. Women don’t want to have as much upper body muscle; they want more definition, and doing a lot of lower body work burns a lot more calories than upper body work.”

A key ingredient to Okafor’s success is simply listening to clients. “I check in: ‘How are you feeling? How was your day? Did you sleep?’ Human beings want to work hard, and to be held accountable,” says the father of two. “They also want someone who has compassion for what they’re going through and what they’re feeling. I start everyone where they are, then build them up and ramp them up.”

For Purist readers, Okafor delivers a summer fitness pep talk: “Consistency is key. Just keep moving. If you say you’re going to do abs every day, do 10 situps every day. If you’re going to do 10 squats, do 10 squats every day. If you can do 10,000 steps a day, you’ll be in a great place.” The rate for the impactful Transformation program is $7,000, or $4,000 when working with one of his Iconoclast trainers. “It’s cheaper than buying a bag,” Okafor says. “An Hermès bag will buy you 10 Transformations.”

iconoclastfitness.com; @catchngo on Instagram

Ngo Okafor

Post

ULTIMATE FITNESS

Walter Savage explains why posture-based exercise and weightlifting are keys to personal wellness.

PURIST: Why are posture-based exercises so important, impactful and popular now?

WALTER SAVAGE: We are constantly sitting, hunched over a smart device or staring at a screen. Over time, cells in our body, such as those in muscle, joints, bones and connective tissues, begin to adapt in order to better respond to stimulus. The body is like a chain—a single tightened or lengthened muscle will impact the muscles that work synergistically and in opposition. Posture is crucial in exercise because it protects the body from injury, allows it to function more efficiently and trains the body to become aware of correct positioning over time.

PURIST: How do posture-based exercises complement weightlifting techniques?

WS: With comfort comes a price— forward head, rounded shoulders, weak grip, the list goes on. Before entering into a program that requires advanced movements, one must correct the imbalances that are causing the day-to-day simplistic poor movement patterns. Lifting is the key to longevity. It’s like restoring a classic car, but instead of having to replace all the parts, all you have to do is lift

weights properly.

PURIST: How does good posture enhance personal wellness?

WS: You know when someone walks into a room and you can sense their presence? Why is that? One word: confidence. The simple act of standing with your shoulders rolled down and back allows for proper chest expansion to improve lung function, providing more oxygenated blood to flow throughout the body, increasing focus, reaction time,

and overall mental and physical performance.

PURIST: What is Post House’s mission for the summer and fall of 2024?

WS: Our mission is simply to encourage wellness into the community’s lifestyle. Better people’s lives by being in shape. Feeling good from within, so as to better appreciate the hard work you put in, is the key to obtaining a Hamptons body. The ultimate aim of Post House is to provide an elevated fitness experience covering all the bases. Personalized one-on-one sessions, group fitness classes to awaken the body and mind and facilitate connection. We want to make Post House an exclusive hub for wellness, culture and community, where anyone can feel comfortable to break a sweat as long as they have an appointment or a reserved mat. It’s where you’ll find a roster of inspiring and highly experienced instructors and collaborators; a variety of fitness methods and classes, each set to a tempo that makes you want to move; recovery treatments, pre- and post-workout bites, state-ofthe-art equipment and design—all situated in the heart of Sag Harbor. posthousehamptons.com

Courtesy of Walter and Tiff any Savage

House founder

BY JIM SERVIN

Co-owner and head trainer

Tiffany Savage demonstrates Pilates moves that engage the deep core muscles in the body.

Post House founder Walter Savage

ACROSS

1 Real, true to oneself

6 Beaujolais, e.g.

8 Beginning to develop

9 Ice blocks

10 Approximately, 2 words

13 Chill out

14 Show selections

17 Type of Greek architecture

18 Desired obsessively

20 Cool ___ cucumber, 2 words

22 Reestablish a bond

25 Certain investment, for short

27 Buddhist tenet

30 Fishing line material

33 Met display

34 Architectural dimension

35 Type of therapy offered at LYMBR at Morphew Southampton

PURE PUZZLE

BY MYLES MELLOR

Down

1 Food or drink for the Greek gods, and something very pleasing to taste and smell

2 A standing asana

3 Fischl and April Gornik: artists at the Couples Squared exhibition at Southampton Arts Center

4 Roman wrap

5 Samsara, for example

6 Pulsing with energy

7 Aroma, in wine-speak

11 Classic Royale, of automotive fame

12 “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” singer Redding

13 “The Girl From Ipanema” setting

15 Mark for life

16 Polish up the writing

18 Ozone depleter, abbr.

19 Wölffer Estate Vineyard role

Find the answers at thepuristonline.com.

21 Before, prefix

23 “Have some”

24 Brilliance

25 Western blue flag, e.g.

26 “Mamma Mia” singers

28 Deli loaf

29 Towel initials

31 Tolkien cannibal

32 To the degree

Myles Mellor is one of the top crossword writers in the world, published in over 1,000 magazines, newspapers and web outlets, supplying themed crosswords, cryptograms, diagramless crosswords, word searches, Sudokus, anagrams and word games. themecrosswords.com. Buy Mellor’s crossword books at ilovecrosswords.com

AT A GLANCE

Enriching and entertaining events to attend while Hamptons summer is still in full swing.

BY AISLINN MACARTHUR

AUGUST 17

Southampton Arts Center Summerfest

This magical evening features dinner and music on the grounds of the Arts Center. The beloved cultural institution depends on its annual gala to maintain its family-centric community offerings and worldclass programming all year long. Tickets from $1,000. The Southampton Arts Center, Southampton; southamptonartscenter.org

AUGUST 19

Moonlit Plunge

Spend a night under the stars at the third annual Moonlit Plunge in Southampton. Games, face painting, drinks, s’mores and music will abound as Coopers Beach lights up to support Heart of the Hamptons, a local food pantry and assistance program. Tickets from $60; free for kids 16 and under. Coopers Beach, Southampton; heartofthehamptons.org

AUGUST 24

East End Hospice Box Art Auction Revel in the beauty of great art for a worthy cause this summer at the Hamptons’ Box Art Auction to support East End Hospice as it works to provide care for terminally ill patients,

their families and loved ones living on the North and South Forks of Long Island. Leading up to the benefit, the boxes can be viewed at Hoie Hall on August 21 and 22. St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Hoie Hall, 18 James Lane, East Hampton; eeh.org

AUGUST 22, 28 & 29

LongHouse Talks

Tune in to several thought-provoking events this August at the LongHouse Reserve. Multimedia artist Maryam Eisler is hosting a two-part talk series, Confined Artists—Free Spirits, where she and other creatives (Shirin Neshat and Mickalene Thomas on August 22; Eric Fischl and more on August 28) will discuss her work and its ability to capture what makes us human.

Following the series, LongHouse wellness expert Jason Amis is hosting a conversation on August 29 with Ross Rayburn, author of Turning Inward: The Practice of Introversion for a Calm, Joyful, Authentic Life Tickets $35. 133 Hands Creek Road, East Hampton; longhouse.org

AUGUST 25-SEPTEMBER 1

The Hampton Classic

As summer comes to a close, attend any day of the weeklong

event to experience one of the most iconic Hamptons summer events, The Hampton Classic Horse Show. Experience the six show rings and enjoy activities for the whole family, including pony rides for children. Ticket prices vary by day, and go on sale August 1. 240 Snake Hollow Road, Bridgehampton; hamptonclassic.com

SEPTEMBER 1

Rufus Wainwright in Concert

End your summer on a high note this year with a performance by the evocative Rufus Wainwright. A celebrated male vocalist praised for his “genuine originality” by The New York Times, he is taking the stage at Guild Hall. The performance will also feature a visual component by artist Gioele Amaro. Tickets from $50. Guild Hall, East Hampton; guildhall.org

SEPTEMBER 26-29

Sag Harbor American Music Festival

Step into fall this year at the Sag Harbor American Music Festival, with three days of free outdoor music in the village, from jazz and rock to pop. On the second day, English rock and folk musician Teddy Thompson headlines the event. Free. Sag Harbor; sagharbormusic.org

R. DePersia

Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker m 516.380.0538 | gdp@corcoran.com

Sagaponack 4 Acre, 9 Bedroom Compound with New Attractive Price

Sagaponack. Step into the timeless elegance of “Winnecoma,” a historic estate spanning 4+/- bucolic acres in the heart of Sagaponack, just one mile from pristine Sagg Main beach. Conceived in 1899 by the distinguished turn of the century architects James E. Ware & Sons, this iconic compound is celebrated as one of Sagaponack’s earliest and most revered summer residences. The estate’s centerpiece is a magnificent shingle-style main residence, exuding classic charm and sophistication. The gracious foyer with fireplace opens to elegant common rooms that were so typical of a bygone era. A country kitchen with sunroom and a media room add to the interiors alure. Broad covered verandas embrace the west and south facing sides of the residence affording ample room day or night for al fresco dining or that post prandial cigar. Upstairs the generous primary suite reigns over 4 additional bedrooms. Complementing this grand home are three delightful accessory structures: a 1-bedroom guest house with artist studio, a 2 story, 3-bedroom carriage house and a former stable, each echoing the property’s storied past. The park-like, rolling grounds cover a beautifully landscaped 2.6+/- residential acres while an additional 1.4+/- acres of conservation land, graced with specimen trees, ensures complete privacy and serene views. This assemblage creates an ideal sanctuary for multigenerational living, offering both communal spaces and private retreats. Although perfectly charming as is, the estate’s intuitive design and vast potential invites an ambitious new owner to enjoy the existing grandeur of the late 1800’s while exploiting its promise of bringing it into the 21st century with all of today’s bells and whistles, including pool, spa, cabana and a full-size N/S tennis court. Positioned near the Sagaponack General Store, immaculate ocean beaches, and charming local farmstands, “Winnecoma” epitomizes refined country living. This estate represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of history in one of America’s most coveted zip codes while seizing the chance to alter that history while making it your own with this unparalleled Sagaponack property. Co-Exclusive. $12.95M WEB# 913317

NUMEROLOGY

A

by-the-numbers

look at Blake Lively, who stars in the summer drama It Ends With Us.

Blake Lively is the youngest of five siblings.The parents had always had roots in show business, which led Lively and her four older siblings to pursue acting professionally.

She is the mother of four children with her husband, actor Ryan Reynolds.Three of the four children are girls, and the parents welcomed the fourth in February 2023.

100

The actress made Time’s list of top 100 most influential people in 2011

Lively is the founder of two brands: Betty Buzz and Betty Booze. She began with Betty Buzz, with the idea that what we drink should be as clean as what we eat, and created a premium sparkling soda beverage. She then launched Betty Booze, the alcoholic equivalent.

“The

most beautiful thing you can wear is confidence.”

1,000,000

In October 2023, Lively and husband Ryan Reynolds donated $1 million to the International Committee of the Red Cross to support children in Israel and Gaza.

Lively has starred in 19 movies, from drama to comedy Some of her most well-known movies include The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants,The Age of Adaline and A Simple Favor. She has four upcoming projects.

17 Guy Aroch

Lively was 17 years old and a junior in high school when she landed her first major role. She starred as Bridget Vreeland in the 2005 film The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants

She began her acting career at age 10 in the 1998 musical Sandman She then took a break for seven years.

The actress won one People’s Choice Award in 2017. She was awarded Favorite Dramatic Movie Actress for her role as Nancy Adams in The Shallows.