LMS offers an authentic Montessori program from early childhood through high school, adhering to principles and scientific methods for your child’s development.
The elementary learning environment (grades 1-6) fosters independence and focus through individual or small group work, natural lighting, soft colors, and organized, accessible materials. New students quickly adapt to Montessori’s hands-on, interest-driven teaching. The classroom is a vibrant, happy community where students explore, create, and reflect, with teachers offering support and introducing new material as needed. Clear expectations are balanced with openended opportunities, promoting both comfort and inspiration for learning.
Our Secondary Montessori program serves 7th - 10th grade with expansion of grade levels each year.
We integrate rigorous academics with purposeful work, preparing students to become selfconfident, contributing adults. Our approach addresses adolescents’ physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and independence. Beyond challenging their intellect, compassion, diplomacy and collaboration are developed through personally experiencing human and nature interdependence. Students also learn business and entrepreneurship skills through hands-on participation in real economic activity provided by Laniakea’s micro-economy program.
We are accepting 3 new students to join our Secondary program. Students must have a strong work ethic with a positive behavior record.
Cheers to 2025!
HAPPY HEALTHY NEW YEAR!
2025 we are happy to see you! I always love the new year - not sure what it is, but there’s just something special about the feeling of that “new year” - a feeling of hope and optimism and looking forward to great things ahead. And of course there’s the celebrating on the Eve and the Day, the eating of traditional New Year’s Day good luck food, and football!
For many of us, this time of year is full of excitement. It presents us with a reset, new horizons and goals to pursue.
We approached this issue of Gainesville City Lifestyle from a mindset of not supplying quick fixes to check boxes in the short term but valuing what is sustainable over the long haul. We wanted to provide inspiration for making lasting, realistic, long-term improvements to your physical, emotional and mental health.
This month’s issue highlights Health and Wellness and adopting and maintaining healthy lifestyles. We hope you’ll enjoy our features on some of our local businesses who work hard to help us all stay fit and healthy, and as always, you’ll find great information about our events and our local businesses
Whether you’re the type who sets goals each new year or not, we hope you find some helpful guidance in these pages, and that this new year brings to you good health, good times, and much success.
Cheers to a fun and healthy 2025! And see you around town!
Elizabeth Mueller | elizabeth.mueller@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Tyler Laborde | TJosephLaborde@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS
Gainesville Area Women’s Network, Dr. Laura McChesney, Momentum Rehab and Chiropractic, Ann Miller-French, Angelik Hands, LLC, Bin There Dump That North Central Florida, Ryan Smith, Sarah Karremans, Christina Miller, Millhopper Montessori School, LLC, Club Synergie Natural Skin & Body Spa, Jennifer Cassidy, New Life Coaching, Dr. Heather Hardin, Halo Health Services, Jacqueline Valdez, Comfort Keepers, Julie Burns, Beauty Lounge, Nikki Naylor, Be Healthy All, Donna Cohen, Adrienne Fletcher Photography, Edo Japanese Steakhouse, Earthwise Pet Jonesville, Early Learning Coalition of Alachua, Xaviera White, Cabi Style with Leza, Leza Mueller, Shoppes at Thornebrook, University of Florida Performing Arts, Heartwood Soundstage, Harn Art Museum, PRP Regeneration Specialists, Wendy Wiggs, Club Pilates Gainesville, Samantha Howell, Fitness Driven Results, Adam Minick, Prost Photography, Travis Mullins, Gainesville City Lifestyle, Rynni Henderson, Tanya Consaul Photography, Dawn Smith, MD., Absolute Wellness and Weightloss, Christina Miller Owner/Head: Millhopper Montessori School, Dr. Heather Hardin, HaloHealth, Scenthound, Kameron Kicklighter, Linda Rocha, Mi Apa Latin Cafe, Charles Howe, Donna Cohen Classic Design, Alachua County Hospitality Council, Mold Solutions, Swamp Axe, Rose Gala, Ronald McDonald House Charities of North Central Florida, Alivia Care @ Home, Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce, The Windsor of Gainesville, Comfort Keepers Gainesville, Mr. Han's Restaurant.
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
city scene
1: Club Synergie's Treat Yourself Event raised $4K+ for Ronald McDonald House Charities North Central Florida! 2: Kaelyn Schmidt Design, LLC team and sponsor had a great time supporting Rose Gala! 3-7: The Rosé Gala at 1908 Grand was spectacular! Gainesville City Lifestyle proudly sponsored this event!
CHARLES HOWE
CHARLES HOWE
Duke Pinner Owner of Pinner’s Fine Shoes
We are all fortunate as residents to live in a city with one of the most dynamic and proactive Chambers of Commerce in the USA! -
Duke
Scan here for more information!
8: The Rosé Gala at 1908 Grand was spectacular! Gainesville City Lifestyle proudly sponsored this event! 9: Proud sponsor of Beyond Bourbon for Ronald McDonald House at beautiful Santa Fe River Ranch! 10: Gainesville City Lifestyle proud sponsor of Beyond Bourbon for Ronald McDonald House. 11-12: Congratulations to Alivia Care @ Home on your Ribbon Cutting and beautiful new facility celebration!
LINDA ROCHA
LEZA MUELLER
business monthly
We want you with us at GAWN!
GAWN is a not-for-profit for business women and anyone who supports women in business. We provide an invaluable network of contacts, leadership opportunities, informative presentations, and diversity of community. Connect, network, and share with GAWN in person at our monthly luncheons. We acknowledge individual member achievements in both business and community, because we believe support and recognition mean everything Learn more at https://www.gawn.org/Join-gawn
Embrace Wellness in the New Year by Jacqueline Valdez
Focusing on wellness and achieving personal balance is important. Find a fitness routine that you enjoy and stick to it!
Get started with a dance, gentle yoga or Pilates class. All are a great way to stay fit, improve muscle tone and meet new friends. Dance can be an incredible outlet for our mental and well being. Plus it’s a blast!
Develop an attitude for gratitude. Here’s to a happier and healthier you!
Create Your Heaven on Earth!
Step into health and wellness with Quantum Life Coach and Artist, Ann MillerFrench of Angelik Hands. Ann is the creator of the Meet Your Higher Self VIP Coaching Program. Through self-love, inner child work, quantum and holistic techniques, participation, and patience, you can and will change your life!
Schedule your FREE Discovery Call today! Ann has helped countless clients break through their energetic walls and blocks for the ultimate transformation! - AngelikHands.com / 414-429-5117 / Newberry
Comfort Keepers, back to being a locally owned business!
20+ year-old hometown caregiving business, Comfort Keepers, is back under local ownership and leadership! Julie and Bryan Burns purchased the local franchise from the corporation of Comfort Keepers. Julie has been with this CK location for 18+ years, having worked every position until becoming General Manager. Comfort Keepers is a worldwide brand of specially trained caregivers who provide uplifting Personal Care and Daily Doses of Joy to Seniors at home, wherever home may be.
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We Are Excited to Announce Our New Team Members
Please welcome Carly Marzak: front desk coordinator, Trey Battle: chiropractic rehab assistant, and Johnathan Hall: chiropractic rehab assistant. They look forward to helping you get moving and stay moving! Momentum Rehab and Chiropractic 2341 NW 41st Street, Suite C, Gainesville, FL 32606 352-3753668 rehabandchiropractic.com
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Introducing Caramel Sundays New Laundry Detergent!
Laundry Soap just got a whole lot better, and CLEANER with Caramel Sundays (the same company who makes our candles that you all love) new LUXE Detergent! Launching in 3 must-have, long-lasting fragrances, we simply don't know how you will choose. @Beautyloungeco - 352-888-4988 100 SW 75th street - ste 203 Gainesville fl, 32607
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Orthopedic Pain Management, looking for a noninvasive way to treat your joint pain? We're passionate about helping people live a pain-free life without the need for surgery, steroid shots, or pain medication.
Regenerative Medicine, using natural and innovative treatments to support the body’s healing processes.
Aesthetic Services provide natural and effective treatments to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, boost collagen production, and give your skin the healthy glow you ’ ve always wanted. Look your best so you can live your best life with confidence and ease.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) is individualized and tailored to each person based on their needs and hormone levels. Our goal is to treat the source of the problem not just the symptoms.
Medical Weight Loss, by combining our medication options with an individualized diet and exercise plan, we ' re equipped to deliver the results you ' re looking for in a healthy and sustainable way.
B-Healthy wishes you a Healthier New Year!
This year, let your employees experience the B-Healthy vending machine wellness boost. B-Healthy is a local healthy vending company that can help increase employee satisfaction and productivity by providing convenient access to snacks and drinks. Additionally, it fosters a relaxed atmosphere, encouraging social interactions among staff, and enhancing overall workplace morale and culture. The best part! Machines are provided at NO cost to your company. Call us at: 954-253-7568 or email: bhtycapital@gmail.com Scan to
So excited about my One Day Transformations!
Most people I know now want instant gratification--this is the way for them to achieve it--quickly and on their budget--we will shoo them out in the morning and--voila!--they come home in the late afternoon to a new room. We have a plan in place beforehand and if something has to be ordered, we make sure we have everything ready to go! Or we just work with what they have, and repurpose and rearrange it!
Ring in the New Year Clutter Free!
Has your garage become a storage room for all those unwanted items? We can help with that! Our dumpsters are not your typical dumpster - we are known for our lean, clean & green residential friendly bins. Square with easy load double doors allow for safe loading and are always placed on our driveway protection system. Offering five different sizes, so let us find the right fit for your project! Call 352-900-5253 or visit https://ncflorida.bintheredumpthatusa.com
Photography by Adrienne Fletcher Photography
New Year,
New You
Whether your goal is Weight Loss, Hormone Balancing (HRT), or Anti-Aging, we listen and take a comprehensive approach that centers on you and what makes you unique. Take advantage of our cutting edge, evidence-based techniques to improve how you look and feel.
Patient-centric care focusing on prevention and disease maintenance. Join one of our targeted health and wellness programs today and experience the power of a true health partnership, with concierge support when you need it.
Anti-Aging therapies formulated to target the underlying causes of aging, and to reduce your biological age, so that you not only look younger but also feel vibrant and energetic.
Improve your physical performance and your brain’s cognitive function with our individualized treatment plans tailored to meet your unique health goals.
Unwind with Friends at Edo’s Happy Hour.
Join us Monday - Thursday from 7 pm - 9:30 pm for Happy Hour at Edo! Relax with friends and savor great drinks in our cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Our friendly staff is here to make your evening enjoyable, whether you're catching up with friends or winding down solo. Don’t miss our Happy Hour specials— there’s something for everyone. See you there!
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Turn Over A New Leaf This Year!
Whether you're looking to make a career shift, improve your relationships, or simply feel more fulfilled in your daily life, New Leaf’s Certified Life Coaches can provide support and guidance in the year ahead. If you’re feeling stuck or struggling to reach or realize your goals, visit https://www.newleaflifecoaching.com to learn more about affordable monthly memberships.
Finding a toy for your power chewer!!
We are often asked if we have indestructible toys but the life of a toy depends on the dog. We have options for easy going dogs up to the power chewers including heavy duty made toys or hard to destroy rubber balls, We have long lasting enrichment toys with treats inside. Other ideas include bully sticks, yak chews and bones. Let us help you find the best toy for your chewer. Earthwise Pet Jonesville.
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Photography by Edo Japanese Steakhouse
Cabi Spring ’24 Collection is coming soon!
I’m so excited to share Cabi Spring ’24 with you! Cabi Spring 2'24 is launching in January with Cabi offering 50% OFF for all my fabulous hostesses all season long! If you’ve seen Cabi, you know the compliments, and if you’ve bought it, you know the quality and uniqueness. Plus, you get me—your local stylist, small business owner, and Cabi lover—offering the best service and amazing discounts! Call or text me at 352-359-6023 to join the fun!
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TYLER LABORDE
Photography by Adrienne Fletcher Photography
Xaviera White, CEO, Early Learning Coalition of Alachua.
Xaviera proudly serves the Alachua Community in the role of CEO of the Early Learning Coalition of Alachua (ELCAC). She is known as a professional, genuine, fair and energetic woman. She loves engaging with the community. She enjoys dressing in book characters and reading to VPK classes once a month. She works with the Board of Directors and awesome staff to drive the vision of Ready for School! Ready for Life!
Photography by Travis Mullins
New year, new you! Invest in yourself with our Dermatologist- supervised skincare treatments, hair removal, injectables, body contouring & more! Our goal at Gainesville Dermatology is to enhance your natural beauty while focusing on your overall skin health Visit us today to turn back the signs of aging.
FREE Skincare, Laser Hair Removal + Body ContouringConsultations
MODERN Wellness Movement
Tips for Optimizing Health and Wellness During the Aging Process
ARTICLE BY WENDY WIGGS APRN-C OWNER OF PRP REGENERATION SPECIALISTS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
KAMERON KICKLIGHTER
The awareness and appreciation for health and longevity are at an all-time high. The chronological age matters less now than biological age. Sixties are the new forties, and younger generations are adopting healthier lifestyles much earlier than the generations before them. Healthy aging is a continuous process of optimizing physical and mental health, maintaining independence, and improving quality of life throughout the lifespan.
1. Hormone Optimization: Bio-identical hormones closely resemble the hormones our bodies used to make when we were younger. Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can improve skin health, bone health, energy levels, cognitive decline, mood stability, weight management, quality sleep, sexual health, and joint health.
2. Healthy diet and weight: Maintaining a diet low in sugar and gluten can help to decrease inflammation in the body, optimize health, and prevent chronic illnesses like diabetes and heart disease. Adequate lean
protein is also essential to maintain and build muscle mass. Supporting gut health through probiotics, prebiotics, and personalized supplements can also improve overall health.
3. Regular physical exercise: Pickleball is a great sport for older adults to enhance memory, increase muscle mass and joint health, improve cardiovascular health, and encourage community socialization. Yoga, Pilates, strength training, swimming, walking, and biking can also help to improve balance and overall health.
4. Stress Management: Chronic stress can raise cortisol levels in the body leading to increased cholesterol levels, elevated blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Natural ways to reduce stress are physical activity, improved sleep, healthy diet, meditation, yoga, and laughter.
Optimizing health throughout the aging process is necessary to prevent chronic disease, maintain independence, and live a quality life.
PRP REGENERATION SPECIALISTS offer personalized, natural treatments to help people look and feel their best. The providers are certified in hormone replacement therapy for men and women, offer state of the art natural treatments for joint pain and aesthetics, and a comprehensive weight loss program.
Edo Japanese Steakhouse / Happy Hour / Happy Hour Specials / Unwind with friends! / www.edosushignv.com / Call (352) 900-6868
Club Pilates Gainesville: Memberships
Club Pilates Gainesville / Memberships for high-quality, life-changing training / https://www.clubpilates.com/ location/gainesville / Call (352) 559-314
Cabi Style with Leza: Cabi Spring '25!
Cabi Style with Leza / Cabi Spring ‘25 / Shop with confidence with your own personal stylist / elizabethmueller. cabionline.com / Call (352) 359-6023
Mobiledumps: For your Decluttering Resolution!
Mobiledumps / Enhanced 1,2 or 3-Day dumpster rentals / Use code: “city10” / www.mobiledumps.com / Call (352) 317-9515
ARTICLE BY ADAM MINICK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PROST PHOTOGRAPHY
Fitness Driven Results
Ready to transform your fitness journey? It’s time to make a commitment to yourself and start moving. Let’s build strength, confidence, and results together! Steps for success.
MAKE A COMMITMENT: This is your moment to invest in yourself. Decide to make fitness a priority!
GIVE YOUR PAST SELF GRACE: Progress isn’t about perfection. Start where you are and be proud of every step forward.
MAKE S.M.A.R.T GOALS: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time Bound.
JOIN A FITNESS-DRIVEN COMMUNITY: Surround yourself with a supportive, motivating group that encourages you to work hard and have fun.
ACHIEVE REAL RESULTS: With expert coaching and personalized plans, you’ll hit your fitness goals faster than you imagined.
Don’t wait—your future self will thank you! FDR offers both group and private training. Call Adam at 407-399-9319 and sign up now and start seeing the results you’ve been working for.
Get a FREE MONTH if you sign up for the year.
https://www.fitnessdrivenresults.com/
“Progress isn’t about perfection. Start where you are and be proud of every step forward.”
Adam Minick: Owner Fitness Driven Results
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER CASSIDY, OWNER CLUB SYNERGIE PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREG CASSIDY & TYLER LABORDE
“Do what brings you joy.”
WHY DID YOU OPEN CLUB SYNERGIE NATURAL SKIN AND BODY SPA?
I was in a bad car accident seven years before opening Club Synergie. I was looking for a gym to continue healing my neck and back pain and found strength training at Abstract Body Works. One of the owners there wanted to get the Synergie machine to work on cellulite. I became a Synergie tech because it lined up with my joy of helping women feel better. It was such a gentle and safe whole-body detox, all while tightening skin and reducing cellulite. No harm would come to clients, and
they would feel and look better. I worked out of the back of this fantastic gym until they decided to sell their business. From the need of my Synergie clients to maintain their results and continue their wellness journey, Club Synergie was born ten years ago.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT WHAT YOU DO?
I love that I get to meet and serve the people of our community without the drama of more invasive procedures. My clients become friends and most say coming to the club is like a warm hug.
HOW DO YOU BALANCE WORK AND FAMILY LIFE?
I do not do a good job balancing work and family life. My family gets to help me whether they like it or not! They have all been very supportive, especially when we do charity and community events to give back. I bribe them with chocolate, neck rubs, and the leftover food.
DO YOU HAVE A MENTOR?
Loralee Hutchinson started as a client and became my mentor because I asked her. I’m
so happy she said yes. I would not have Club Synergie without her wisdom and guidance. She introduced me to my wonderful husband and has been there to speak the truth in my life, and most importantly, she has loved me unconditionally through it all.
DO YOU HAVE A MOTTO OR FAVORITE SAYING?
“Do what brings you joy.”
Jennifer Cassidy is the owner of both Club Synergie Natural Skin and Body Spa and New Leaf Life Coaching. She holds workshops and hosts events for the community in and out of her space, from the annual Treat Yourself Event which benefits the Ronald Mcdonald House, to partnering with the Displaced Homemakers at Santa Fe, giving talks and donating to their organization. Jennifer welcomes her new vision to make our local world a more loving place through giving back, and is up for the challenge.
https://www.clubsynergie.com/ CONTINUED >
NATURAL HEALING Through Shockwave Therapy
Cutting-edge therapy to unlock your body’s natural healing and get back to life faster
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY DR. LAURA W. MCCHESNEY, CHIROPRACTIC PHYSICIAN
Our mission at Momentum Rehab and Chiropractic is to help as many people as possible get moving and stay moving through natural healing. We have continued to expand our offerings of non-surgical, drug free therapies that help our community better recover from auto accidents, acute injuries, and chronic pain. That’s why we’ve embraced Softwave Tissue Regenerative Therapy. Softwave is a true shockwave that is a safe and effective FDA cleared treatment. It is non-invasive, requires no anesthesia, and has no side effects. The therapy activates the body’s natural healing properties in tissues and vessels through electrohydraulic energy waves that improve blood flow and activate resident stem cells.*
From boosting the recovery times from acute injury such as muscle tears, to restoring tissue elasticity and reducing pain in chronic conditions such as arthritis, neuropathy and post-surgical pain, Softwave TRT enables maximum tissue penetration to unlock the full potential of biological healing effects at the cellular level. In a time when there is more reliance on medications that only treat the symptoms, this cutting-edge technology works on the cause, and has been a game changer in helping our patients get out of pain and back to life.
*Referenced from Softwavetrt.com
“My right thigh was hurting so much, I had to sit down often and couldn't stand long. I used to walk 2 or more miles, 5 times a week. I had 6 treatments and a small booster. I'm now walking 2.25 miles 3 days a week, with very little discomfort. I can stand to cook meals. It's so great to no longer need pain meds.” - Linda
We all know children and teens need a lot of sleep. It is recommended that toddlers and preschoolers get 10 -14 hours, 9-11 for schoolaged, and 8-10 for teens. Sleep can directly impact your child’s behavior as well as their ability to self-regulate including emotional and intellectual function. Insufficient sleep can even present as ADHD.
Knowing this is all well and good but creating a healthy sleep routine can be challenging. Some of the ways parents can help their children spend more time in bed is to create time for them to wind down and create an order of activities that can be repeated every night. Some of the helpful activities include listening to music, reading or looking at picture books for young children. Some practices to avoid include exercise or caffeinated beverages too close to bedtime and keeping electronic devices off for a period before going to bed. It has been proven that the
light from screens will block the production of melatonin.
Also, when it comes to bed sharing with parents. It is important that children can fall asleep on their own and self soothe when waking during the night and then be able to fall back asleep on their own, so it, too, is not recommended.
Creating a healthy sleep routine takes effort. It is often helpful to understand the science behind sleep and brain development. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has conducted longitudinal studies on this. After a two-year study there were differences in brain structure and function in the insufficient sleep group compared to the group that received sufficient sleep. Their findings connect sleep, and its effects on behavior and learning on how sleep changes the brain.
For more information: ABCD Study ( https://abcdstudy.org/ )
https://www.millhopper.com/
Village | 2441 NW 43rd Street, Suite 3A www.floatinglotusspa.com | 352-378-8125 | email: fls@floatinglotusspa.com
Let's meet Samantha Howell
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA HOWELL
Excited to introduce Samantha Howell, your Club Pilates Regional Lead Instructor!
1. WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO CLUB PILATES AND YOUR PASSION FOR FITNESS AND WELLNESS?
I’ve always had a deep passion for movement and wellness. I discovered Pilates during a period when I was looking for a way to improve my strength, flexibility, and mental clarity. Club Pilates stood out to me because of its welcoming environment, structured classes, and the opportunity to learn from experienced instructors. It’s a place where I can grow both personally and professionally, while helping others discover the transformative benefits of Pilates for themselves.
2. WHEN DID YOU KNOW IT WAS A PERFECT FIT?
It was when I took my first class at Club Pilates. The atmosphere was so supportive, and the blend of strength, balance, and mindfulness that Pilates offers really resonated with me. I knew I wanted to be part of a community that focuses not only on physical fitness but also on overall well-being. I could see how Pilates helped people of all backgrounds and abilities feel stronger, more connected to their bodies, and more confident in their everyday lives. That’s when I knew I had found my place.
3. DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE SAYING OR MOTTO?
Yes! One of my favorite sayings is, “Progress, not perfection.” This is something that really aligns with Pilates—it’s
Samantha Howell
“Samantha Howell, formerly Gainesville General Manager, was promoted in June to Regional Lead Instructor! We're thrilled for her to bring her expertise to the region in this exciting new role.”
not about being perfect in every movement, but about making progress and appreciating the journey. It reminds me that every small step forward, whether in fitness or in life, is valuable.
4. DO YOU HAVE A MENTOR?
Yes, I’m incredibly fortunate to have Cynthia as my mentor. Cynthia is a second-generation Pilates teacher who studied under the legendary Romana Kryzanowska, which gives her an unparalleled depth of knowledge and expertise in the Pilates method. Over the past five years of instructing, Cynthia has been an invaluable source of guidance and support. Her coaching has not only helped me refine my teaching skills but also deepened my understanding of Pilates as a whole. She’s always there to offer advice, whether it’s about client care, advanced techniques, or how to keep growing as an instructor. Her commitment to continual learning and her passion for the Pilates method inspire me daily, and I feel so grateful to be able to learn from someone with such a rich legacy in the Pilates community.
5. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ACTIVITY OUTSIDE OF CLUB PILATES?
When I’m not at Club Pilates, I enjoy traveling, hiking, cooking, and exploring new wellness trends. Being outdoors and connecting with nature always gives me a sense of clarity and balance. I’m also a big believer in trying new things, whether it’s experimenting with a new healthy recipe or learning a new form of movement. Keeping life varied and interesting helps me stay energized and inspired.
https://www.clubpilates.com/location/gainesville
Photography Tanya Consual Photography
Photography Tanya
Consual Photography
DR. HEATHER HARDIN
https://www.halohealthcbd.com/
Ancient Roots, Modern Medicine Woman
Blending a Legacy of Holistic Wisdom with Modern Scientific Knowledge
ARTICLE BY DR. HEATHER HARDIN
I recently discovered a fascinating piece of my family history: I come from a lineage of “medicine women.” My Great Grandmother was a renowned healer, drawing people from far and wide to seek her wisdom and natural remedies. Her worn, well-loved book of home remedies is one of my most cherished possessions. While my journey to becoming a naturopath began before I knew about my Great Grandmother’s legacy, it seems the stars were aligning. I initially aspired to be a physician, but later shifted my focus to pharmacy. After earning my Doctorate in Pharmacy, I spent years teaching and practicing Western medicine at the University of Florida.
Six years ago, my heart led me down a different path. I was drawn to the holistic/whole-person approach of functional medicine and herbalism. Today, I own and operate Halo Health, where I help clients harness the power of nature to heal their bodies. In addition to treating symptoms, I strive to uncover and address the root causes of illness.
I can’t help but wonder if my Great Grandmother would be proud of the “medicine woman” I’ve become. Her legacy continues to inspire me as I work to empower others on their healing journeys.
NOW IS your TIME!
Dawn Smith, MD
ARTICLE BY DAWN SMITH, MD
The end of the year and the holiday season is full of special occasions and traditions, as well as unique stressors. With so many activities involving food and drinks, it can be easy to overindulge.
As the new year rolls in, many decide it is now time to commit or recommit to a healthier lifestyle, but are unsure what steps to actually take. Getting more exercise? Making changes in nutrition? It can be difficult to orient to a starting point or plan with so much information available. I have two guiding principles:
1. The best nutrition plan or workout program is the one that you will stick to!
2. You can’t out-train a bad diet - nutrition is key! Education, support, and accountability are crucial to long-term success. We will start by exploring your goals together, establishing your “why”, and figuring out the best changes that work for you. Then we will continue to meet regularly to discuss obstacles, empower you with tools to overcome them, and celebrate every accomplishment as you reach your goals.
***My website will be live soon. The address is Absolutewellnessandweightloss.com
Celebrating three years of sharing the stories, businesses, and vibrant culture of Gainesville! It’s been an amazing journey connecting with the community, and here’s to many more years of inspiring and uplifting local voices. Thank you to all the contributors, readers, and businesses who make Gainesville City Lifestyle a staple in our city!
Cheers to continued growth, stories, and success!
https://citylifestyle.com/gainesvillefl
ARTICLE BY LEZA MUELLER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TANYA CONSAUL PHOTOGRAPHY
HAVE YOU BRUSHED YOUR DOG’S TEETH TODAY?
As dog parents, we all want to keep our furry friends healthy and happy. While we focus on their diet, exercise, and overall well-being, dental health often takes a back seat. Neglecting your pet’s teeth can lead to plaque buildup which can develop into bad breath, pain, difficulty eating, and even more serious conditions like periodontal disease.
The bacteria in plaque can cause inflammation of the gums, which can progress to periodontal disease if left untreated. Periodontal disease is a severe condition that affects the structures supporting the teeth, leading to tooth loss and other health problems, including infections that can spread to the heart and kidneys.
The most effective way to prevent plaque buildup is by brushing your dog’s teeth regularly. Aim to brush at least three times a week using a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. Be sure to focus on the gum line where plaque tends to accumulate. The American Veterinary Dental Society recommends regular brushing as a key component of maintaining your dog’s oral health.
Dog chew toys, dental chews and dry kibble can also help, as chewing is a natural behavior for dogs that helps them keep their teeth clean. This action is similar to brushing but is far less effective, especially if the plaque has already hardened into tartar. A great tool to help improve your dog’s dental disease is specialized dental supplements. Make sure to choose supplements that are made for dogs. We especially like Houndswell’s Daily Dental Support, it is hassle-free and helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup with ingredients like organic kelp. Always follow the instructions on the bottle for dosage and instructions on how to give them to your pup.
SCENTHOUND - BEYOND TRADITIONAL DOG GROOMING
At Scenthound, we understand that being the best dog parent you can be involves more than just providing food and shelter. That’s why we provide personalized, convenient hygiene services that go beyond traditional dog grooming so you can take the best possible care of your dog, including maintaining your pet’s teeth.
With Scenthound by your side, you can feel confident that you’re doing everything you can to be a better dog parent. Ready to get your pup on the path to wellness? Find a Scenter near you at Scenthound.com.
Regular veterinary check-ups are also essential for catching dental issues early and preventing periodontal disease. Professional dental procedures, including cleanings and extractions, are essential for maintaining your dog’s oral health.
https://www.scenthound.com/gainesville
Ann Miller-French is a light language practitioner & artist.
Ann’s art includes powerful and highly therapeutic light language activation codes. Every painting is unique and one-of-a-kind. You can find many of her paintings available for purchase from her fine art gallery, which is on display at Sound Awake Healing Collective in Newberry, Florida. For her artist’s portfolio, please visit her on Instagram V lightlanguageart.by.ann
Ascension
Thy Kingdom Come Healing Hands
JANUARY EVENTS
University of Florida Performing Arts: January Events
3201 Hull Road, Gainesville, Florida
Pink Martini: Wednesday January 14th at 7:30 pm, Pacifica Quartet: Friday January 17th at 7:30 pm and Saturday January 18th at 2 pm. , Cirque Kalabante: Tuesday January 21st at 7:30 pm, Take 6, Nnenna Freelon, and Clint Holmes: Friday January 24th at 7:30 pm. , Geneva Lewis: Sunday, January 26th at 2 pm., Stella Cole: Friday January 31st at 7 pm and 9 pm. https://performingarts.ufl.edu/
JANUARY EVENTS
Heartwood Soundstage
619 S Main Street, Gainesville, Florida
Kathleen Edwards w/Lauren Morrow: January 17th 7 pm., Playground Music + Arts Festival: January 18th 1 pm., Mason Ramsey w/Halle Kearns: January 23rd 7 pm., Michigander w/Sydney Sprague: January 24th 7 pm., Mary Gauthier w/Jaimee Harris: January 25th 6 pm. https://heartwoodsoundstage.com Call 352-448-4849 for ticket information.
JANUARY - JUNE
Save the Date:
Cabi
Spring 25 Collection!
352-359-6023
Save the Date for Cabi Spring ’25! From January to June 2025, experience boutique-style, high-quality clothing, available only through your stylist—ME! Call or text 352-359-6023 to learn more and discover ways to save 50% on your Cabi Spring '25 Collection. Your Cabi Stylist, Leza Mueller. https://elizabethmueller.cabionline.com/collection/
JANUARY - APRIL
Harn Educational Opportunity Begins January 2025
3259 Hull Road, Gainesville, FL
Join a free educational opportunity about Black history starting in January. Four classes, valuable for those writing on history, inequity, or cross-cultural relationships, explore Black history in Alachua County. Classes are on January 11th, February 8th, March 8th, and April 12th from 10 am to 12 pm. Registration is suggested, and a $5 donation per class is appreciated. Contact the Harn Museum at 352-392-9826 for locations.
JANUARY 21ST
Club Synergie 10 Year Anniversary Celebration & Customer Appreciation Event
3600 NW 43rd St. Suite D4, Gainesville, FL 32606 | 3:00 PM
Club Synergie Natural Skin & Body Spa is celebrating 10 years of empowering the community through holistic self-care with natural, personalized wellness and aesthetic services. Stop in during the Open House and Customer Appreciation Event for huge giveaways and discounted services, enjoy refreshments, and experience why Gainesville loves this nurturing sanctuary for total balance, relaxation, and rejuvenation. https://www.clubsynergie.com/
MARCH 1ST - 2ND
Save the Date: Shoppes at Thornebrook presents Spring Arts Festival!
At Shoppes at Thornebrook: 2441 NW 43rd Street, Gainesville Florida
Mark your calendars for the fourth annual Thornebrook Spring Arts Festival! The park-like setting of the Shoppes at Thornebrook will be filled with talented artists on March 1st and 2nd. Check out our Facebook event for updates on confirmed artists and entertainment
– https://www.facebook.com/events/8189491331179668/ Interested artists can apply here: https://forms.gle/pte7Kdg5RccwBeBp7
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