THE WELLNESS ISSUE HERBS: Naturally Healing the Planet
Salt For Life!
Discover The Jacksonville Salt Spa
Five Minutes Of Face Time with
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Publisher
Kimberly Berry-Hooks Creative Director
Inger Williamson Graphic Designer
David M. Newman MediaJuiceINK.com Contributing Editors
Tracy Margol Contributing Writers
Tracy Margol Nia Gonczi Heather LePetrie Jodi Fizer Photography
Paco Alacid Kristia Knowles Christina Block Ella Fraser www.PonteVedraLife.com For Advertising Information, Contact: 904.222.8939 Info@PonteVedraLife.com P.O. Box 1091 Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32004 Copyright 2012 Ponte Vedra Life, a product of Fore K and K Media, is published bi-monthly. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in part or in full without written consent from the publisher. Neither the publisher nor the advertisers will be held responsible for any errors found in the magazine. Ponte Vedra Life makes no representation or warrant of any kind for the accuracy of content. All advertisements are assumed by the publisher to be correct.
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release party the wellness issue
Hors d’oeuvres & cocktails Thursday, June 28 6:30-9:30pm
RSVP on Facebook www.facebook.com/PVLMagazine Ponte Vedra Life
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PUBLISHER’S LETTER There is no limit to what you can imagine. And with commitment, with effort, what you can imagine you can become. Put your mind to work for you. Believe that you can do it. The world will tell you that you can’t. Yet, in your belief you’ll find the strength, you’ll find the ability, to do it anyway.” Ralph Marston The most significant decision I make each day is my choice of attitude. I believe if we accomplished all of the things we are capable of, we would truly astound ourselves. After all, how often do we complete a project or task that was beyond the capability of the person we were when we started it? With the right attitude, we are better equipped to care for our well-being. Our body and mind is our machine for living and good health is a great blessing. I give you The Wellness Issue. We have focused this issue on Natural Health Solutions. We feature the Salt Spa and the therapeautic benefits of Himalayan Salts. I checked it out. I didn’t want to leave so I went back the next day. Get to know The Willow on the CW17. Harmonize your mind, body and spirit while fostering self-awareness and a deeper sense of well-being. Think CALM. Discover the medicinal uses of plants with the beaches own Master Herbalist, Eileen Kampfe. Go confidently and proudly in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined. Be well.
Kimberly Hooks Kim
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CONTENTS Cover
Photographer: Paco Alacid Model: Monica Geraci, THE WILLOW Wardrobe Stylist: Melissa Intemann Makeup Artist: Carrie Wilson Hair Artist: Ginger Laurie Creative Director: Inger Williamson Wardrobe: Penelope T Jewelry: Anothai Design and Willow House
Departments
Featured Story: Big Oak Wolf Sanctuary | 12
Providing permanent sanctuary for neglected and unlawfully obtained wolves
Prime and Prep: Salt For Life | 40 Discover The Jacksonville Salt Spa
Five Minutes of Face Time: THE WILLOW | 18 The journey that changes everything has begun
Health: Good Things Come in Small Packages | 60 Get to know these tiny warriors that fight for you--naturally
Flavor: Better Bites | 68
There’s something cooking at The Good Food Company
Only In This Issue: Athletes in the 904 | 45 Local athletic figures share their passion and inspiration
Medic: The Newest On Body Contour | 58 Dr. Thorpe gives insight on the latest weight loss procedure
Gear: 0 to 60 in 3.2 Seconds | 64 Breaking down Henry Ford’s work of genius
Space: The New Classic Kitchen | 38
New kitchen trends for the most popular room in the house
Trend: Pilates Day | 22
Jacksonville hits the beach for a day of discovery
Healing: Naturally Healing the Planet | 74 Changing the world with one herb at a time
Fashion Spread: C’est La Vie | 24 A trip to the Old City
Paparazzi | 57
Salt Spa’s new Tiki Hut kicks off with a bang!
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FEATURED STORY
Big Oak Wolf Sanctuary By: Nia Gonczi 12 |
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Man’s best friend must really hold true for John and Debra Knight, owners of Northeast Florida’s Big Oak Wolf Sanctuary. Founded in 2006, Big Oak is a faith-based wolf rescue and sanctuary for captive born and owned wolves that were neglected or abused by their owners, or were given up by people who were no longer able to care for them. With their priorities and religious values focused on the well-being of wolves, Big Oak’s mission is to “provide permanent sanctuary for neglected, abused and unlawfully obtained/owned wolves, and then, to involve the physically and developmentally disabled in a manner that enhances their enthusiasm for life.” Believing it is their responsibility as humans to care for the needs of animals, the owners of Big Oak Wolf Sanctuary strive to raise the accepted standard of care for abused and neglected wolves. The sanctuary is designed to meet the needs of the rescued wolves and accommodate 14 |
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them in Northeast Florida’s warmer and more humid climate. Ranging from 3600 sq. ft. to over 20,000 sq. ft, the 21 wolf enclosures average less than three wolves/ wolf-dogs per enclosure—holding the title as the most innovative and elaborate of wolf sanctuaries to date. Each enclosure includes a pool house, tall platforms to gauge the pool temperature, and either an above- or below-ground den. Assuring that the wolves have enough room to run and play, the enclosures maximize each wolf ’s comfort to ensure their quality of life. The founders of Big Oak Wolf Sanctuary say that the wolves’ comfort in captivity is always on their minds, and that they will continue to improve on their accommodations as they learn from the wolves. In addition to caring for and serving the wolves’ needs, Big Oak Wolf Sanctuary’s vision also serves the needs of humans by including the developmentally disabled in a unique and inspiring
way. Wolves are believed to examine people on a more profound level than other animals. They tend to see through one’s exterior and interpret the personal stresses and general concerns of human existence as a threat, leaving wolves to generally fear man. This can cause for some adjustment as the neglected or abused wolf finds peace in the wolf sanctuary and their options for avoiding humans are limited. However, the founders of Big Oak Wolf Sanctuary have discovered a category of people who have a positive and heartwarming effect on the wolves. Through interaction between the developmentally disabled and the wolves, there is no extraneous human disturbance and individual fulfillment is achieved. The wolves provide an enriching and uplifting experience full of passion and joy to the developmentally disabled people who interact with them while the wolves experience a sense of calm and serenity in return. The power of what the founders of Big Oak call this “philanthropic paradigm,” is that its effects reach beyond just the wolves and the developmentally disabled—it also touches the lives of anyone who witnesses the interaction between the two.
of this, does not exhibit the rescued wolves through means of paid tours. So to maintain the facility and this standard of care, with a $7k-plus monthly budget, support from local businesses is essential; logos of supporting businesses appear on Big Oak website’s “Our Sponsors” Page, with a link to their business website. Big Oak does however provide an unintrusive form of exhibition of the wolves in the form of a live video feed online for their supporters, who are able to observe the wolves’ daily lives and witness the uplifting interaction between them and the volunteer staff. Personal donations of $125 or more to the Big Oak Wolf Sanctuary grants access to the live video feed during daylight hours for a full year. The Live Video Feed is a service as opposed to a product, and it allows for the supporters to validate Big Oak’s commitment and enables them to see how their donation is spent. Photos of the wolves of Big Oak and contact information can be found online if you would like to help them continue caring for what some call “God’s most awesome creatures.”
Big Oak Wolf Sanctuary simply puts the wolves first. The sanctuary runs on unconditional love and dedication to these animals and because
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5 Minutes of Face Time:
The Willow By: Tracy Margol
Maybe you were flipping channels one morning and you were suddenly captivated by a striking young woman in a seated “easy pose” whose voice sounded like a butterfly if it could talk. So you put down the remote and listened for a moment as she told a story about her encounter with happy children in Brazilian favelas as they celebrated getting running water. You were moved to tears, you did about a half an hour of yoga with her, and then you realized she’s as impossibly beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside. Each weekday morning on The CW, she talks about things like liberation, Peruvian treks, and lions sleeping against her tent on the Serengeti, followed by her own creation of a tai chi/yoga hybrid that will leave you feeling like the very fearless warrior she embodies. Themes threaded throughout the show (created by Iconic Innovations’ Kevin Porter) resonate, like determination and gratitude, and finding the perfect balance -- and they’re told in a way that couldn’t be farther removed from cliche. It’s no wonder she receives messages like: “I am SO thankful for you and the positive energy and message you share. I and others need that light and that energy... I pray that you will be richly blessed with all the love, life and prosperity you so deserve. I pray for an abundance of strength and enlightenment in your life that you may be able to continue your mission in helping others. I appreciate you -- you are amazing!” 18 |
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She even sent well wishes out to the person who stole her laptop from a hotel pool. We just had to spend five minutes with The Willow to determine from where this kindness and inspiration emanates. Your stories at the start of the show are so moving. Do you feel you are influencing people when you speak to the camera? If so, how? I feel so fortunate to be in this position. I don’t believe that I’m influencing people as much as serving as a sounding board for the amazing people out there. I travel a great deal and I think I’ve always been a good listener; I love listening to the stories, advice and ideas that people share with me. I absorb and relish these stories and the show is a platform for me to share them. I love that I have the opportunity to echo to the world the impact these people have had on me. Each Facebook post, tweet or email profoundly affects me. We have such wonderful people contributing to this great movement of positivity, it humbles me to simply be a part of it.
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You speak a lot about moving forward with confidence; what inspired this? I was raised in a family where anything was possible, and I learned not to let boundaries hold me back. Being a girl, I was told that I could be president, a pro athlete, or really anything I wished to be. This inner strength gave me the confidence to tackle life’s challenges...so I move forward. When I read the Henry David Thoreau quote, “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams! Live the life you’ve imagined,” I thought it applied to me more than anything I’ve ever read. It is how I live my life.
show that I realized the purpose of my desire to learn and share. It was to introduce the world to these wonderful people whom I’ve met throughout my life.
How did you discover yoga and how has it influenced you? I was 12 years old and fell in love with yoga instantly. At first I loved how it challenged me physically. It wasn’t until a few years later that I experienced the spiritual side of yoga. It has taught me lessons that I apply to every aspect of my life...mostly patience and creating a peaceful state in which to exist.
You ask people to connect with you on Facebook or email at the end of the show; what kinds of things are people saying? Facebook is my happy place! It allows me to bring my thoughts to light as they come to me. The thing that’s most rewarding is receiving posts from my dear friends out there who are responding to what I speak about on the show. It confirms that we’re kindred spirits. I feel closer to these wonderful people than I ever imagined. At first when I would open my heart to the camera, I never really knew where the transmission was going... somewhere into the darkness...a void. But now when I sit down, prepare myself, and look into the camera, I see the faces of Sherry, Aaron, Annette, Tanya, Rae and so many others. It’s sometimes overwhelming. I am blessed. Truly.
What inspires you? People doing things that they’re destined to do and also people accomplishing things that they never thought they could. We are all amazing, and have only tapped a portion of our inner strength. When I witness a fellow human being elevate himself beyond his preset boundaries, I believe it gives hope to us all. What are you most passionate about? Sharing. I love connecting...with anyone and anything. People have always said that I “never meet a stranger.” It’s so true! I have to talk to everyone! We all have stories and I have this passion to know everyone’s story. It wasn’t until I had the 20 |
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Is it true that you keep a “gratitude journal?” Yes! We often take inventory of the things in life that bring us worry -- like bills, errands, to-do lists. We seldom sit and thank life for the many splendors that we’re blessed to have. So this journal reminds me to sit down daily and thank the universe for its bountiful and beautiful gifts.
One thing we determined for certain: five minutes was nowhere near long enough to spend with The Willow. Tune in weekdays at 7:00 a.m. on The CW Jacksonville to hear these inspiring stories and balance the mind, body and spirit with some Willow yoga...she really will “show you the way.”
Photographer: Paco Alacid Wardrobe Stylist: Melissa Intemann Wardrobe Contributor: Penelope T Jewelry Contributor: Anothai Design Hair Artist: Ginger Laurie Makeup Artist: Carrie Wilson
Creative Director: Inger Williamson
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TREND
Pilates
DAY
By Amber Le Blanc, A. Pilates Studio www.PilatesByAmber.com
Pilates Day is an annual, community educational event held throughout Jacksonville and the beaches. Workshops, classes and demonstrations are open and complimentary for all.
Pilates was developed by Joseph H. Pilates in the early 1900s, emphasizing core strength, stamina, stability, flexibility, and awareness in all muscle groups. 22 |
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C’est La Vie
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Photographer: Kristia Knowles Models: Justin Baringer and Tyler Hill Wardrobe Stylist: Melissa Intemann Wardrobe: Saks Off 5th, St. Augustine Hair Artist: Ginger Laurie Makeup Artist: Jill Brittain Creative Director: Inger Williamson Location: Casa Monica Hotel, St. Augustine
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space THE "NEW" CLASSIC KITCHEN
BY: ALLIE KRISTE
Calm, Cool, Collected ... Contemporary! It’s the “New” classic. Contemporary styling has recently become a definitively popular design theme. Once considered desirable mostly in urban settings and condos, contemporary designs have worked their way into
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more traditional settings. Characterized by sleek clean lines, contemporary takes a minimalist approach to design while maximizing space. The most popular contemporary designs have a softer feel that are inviting and can really make your kitchen “the place” everyone wants to hang out! A monochromatic color scheme is typically the style, often blended with interesting textures or grain patterns to create a focal point. Contemporary kitchens can be designed by using a wide variety of cabinetry finishes such as high gloss foils, textured foils, patterned gloss foils, acrylics and exotic veneers. Countertop trends are heading in the direction of
quartz, glass and even concrete with recycled glass.
Glass and stainless accents and bright highlights of color can really help give your kitchen that extra WOW factor!
Cabinetry hardware trends are sleek and linear or streamlined with integrated stainless pulls. Glass and stainless accents and bright highlights of color can really help give your kitchen that extra WOW factor! Allikristé is partnered with great product lines such as Seimatic, Dura Supreme and Executive’s Bellini…which all offer great contemporary finishes at a variety of price points that can be customized to fit your budget. A kitchen is given its own individual character when the specific personal needs of the homeowner are targeted. Allikristé’s team of experienced designers can offer innovative solutions to allow you an exclusive and unique environment in your kitchen that will blend harmoniously with your homes’ interior.
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prime
Salt For Life The Jacksonville Salt Spa
By: Tracy Margol
Basking in salt caves is a centuries-old Eastern European healing tradition known for its power to help those who suffer from asthma, allergies, respiratory, and skin conditions. Salt therapy was discovered over a century ago when Eastern European doctors observed that salt miners had very low incidences of respiratory diseases and tuberculosis. Seeking relief, those suffering from the diseases began to visit and even sleep overnight in the mines. But there’s no 40 |
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need to travel to Europe to receive these benefits -- they’re available right on the First Coast in the newly-opened Jacksonville Salt Spa. The Salt Spa incorporates Himalayan Salts, which were beneath the Dead Sea for 250 million years, into every unique service they offer. Spa coordinator, Lauren Briddick explains, “In that time, the salts absorbed the 84 trace minerals from the Dead Sea and that’s why
they’re so good for us -- the human body needs those minerals to survive, and not only that, any time the salt is heated, through things like body temperature, candles, warm water, sun or a lamp, it omits negative ions which ionizes and purifies the air we breathe so it’s a natural healer.” “Our clients suffer from allergies, migraines and many other ailments. Some are even able to cut back on medications with regular visits,” claims owner Jacqueline Rush. “One of our clients from St. Augustine was on six breathing treatments a day when she first came here. She had amazing results after her initial treatment, and now she’s down to one breathing treatment a day. People are just so grateful that this is now available to them.” Guests of Salt Spa are welcomed into a serene, luxurious lobby-boutique glowing with lamps made of pure Himalayan Salt, which are available for purchase. The healthy negative ions omitted by these lamps help purify the air we breathe which in turn sends oxygen to the brain. This increases energy, fights off bacteria, relieves stress and depression, and returns guests to a natural state of well being and serenity. Himalayan Salts for the bath, also sold in the boutique, are infused with an array of different aromatherapy which provides natural healing properties as well as the ions and mineral content. “People come from all over to visit Salt Spa for treatments of various conditions, but they also receive healing therapy, the combination of which is not available anywhere else in the area,” says Jacqueline. Guests leave with a renewed sense
of physical and mental well-being. Upon departure, The Spa’s guests claim they feel as if they’ve spent a day at the seaside.
Salt is the essential component of the body’s extracellular fluids, helps carry nutrients into the cells and regulates various body functions, including bolstering our immune system and enabling healthy digestion. Salt contains a large variety of minerals, many of which are missing from our daily diet but are needed to obtain optimal health.
The Jacksonville Salt Spa offers guests a plethora of unique and beneficial therapy rooms which are atypical of traditional spa services. Ponte Vedra Life
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Steam Therapy Treatment Room Weight loss, improved skin appearance, and stress relief are only a few of the benefits of this Himalayan Steam Therapy. The power of steam therapy and massage combined is the ultimate purification and detoxifying treatment to rid the body of toxins. In every steam session the body can burn up to 600 calories, and in turn boost the immune system, which is why this treatment is endorsed by the Mayo Clinic. As guests sweat under the steam canopy, the skin pores begin to open up allowing layers of the skin to be receptive to the body’s natural nutrients, in addition to the minerals and ions from the salts. “You actually kick-start your metabolism while you’re detoxing,” explains Lauren. And all this is happening while the therapist is intermittently massaging your head, face and neck. Salt Spa offers several steam therapy programs: Weight Loss and Cellulite, Detoxification, Muscle and Joint Pain, as well as the single day Himalayan Salt Steam to cleanse and replenish the body.
The Salt Room Though it appears to be a mesmerizing white wonderland, the Spa’s Salt Room is a warm climate where the ceiling, floors and walls are covered with four tons of Dead Sea salt crystals. Guests recline in zero-gravity chairs as the room recreates the natural microclimate of ancient salt caves known as Halotherapy -- a system that blows a dry aerosol of pharmaceutical grade salt into the room. Jacqueline explains that “as you inhale the salt, the particles latch onto bacterial mucus in the body. These particles then clear pollens, viruses, pollutants and toxins out of the lungs, sinuses and nasal passageways.” She adds that 42 |
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the negative ions in the salt purify the air and increase overall well-being. This ionization also helps to relieve blemishes, fatigue, anxiety, depression, insomnia, bronchial colds, smoker’s cough and many more conditions.
Coconut Cocoon Room If a day on your feet has you pining for pampering, the Coconut Cocoon Room is the place to be. This treatment begins with a detoxifying herbal blend joined with a Himalayan Salt soak infused with pure coconut essential oils and botanicals which use the healing power of water to bring relaxation and draw toxins out of the body through sweat glands in the feet. The process includes a mineralizing coconut salt scrub sealed in with soothing warm paraffin wax. The pampering continues with a reflexology coconut oil foot massage accompanied by coconut tea and calming herbal eye pads.
Tea Room Arrive early and go home late so you can relax by the Himalayan Salt rock fire pit and sip soothing herbal teas in the Spa’s relaxing Tea Room.
Mud Room If applying nutrient-rich mud to your partner sounds romantic, then this is the treatment for you. The Salt Spa’s Mud Room allows guests to socialize while relaxing and bringing body and mind into balance under special chrome lighting that balances positive and negative ions. This self-serve body treatment detoxifies, firms and hydrates the skin, and awakens the senses with a custom blend therapeutic mud and aromatherapy infused steam. The room is also available for office parties or girls’ (or guys’) outings. Ponte Vedra Life
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ATHLETES
IN THE
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LINDSAY SUNDELL Olympic Runner
ROAD LESS TRAVELED STATS:
Full scholarship to UF for track and cross country. School record in the 3000 meter steeplechase, qualified and competed in the 2008 Olympic Trials. Currently training for the 2012 Olympic Trials.
What inspires me?
I love to run and to see what my body is capable of, and that inspires me. With drive and dedication, you’d be amazed at what you can accomplish, and I truly enjoy pushing myself. When you reach your goal, it makes all that sacrifice well worth it, and going for a run in the morning is a great way to start the day.
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THORSTEN HOHMANN Professional Pool Player
CUE YOU IN STATS:
World 9-Ball Champion 2003, World Straight Pool Champion 2006-2011, Winner of biggest prize purse in pool $350,000 IPT North American Open in Las Vegas 2006, BCA Open Champion 2005, China Open Champion 2009, All Japan Champion 2010, Reigning Philippine Open Champion, World Cup of Pool Champion and World Straight Pool Champion
What inspires me?
My inspiration comes from different sources. The most powerful motivation is my pure love for the game. Pool defines me. It made me what I am today. I’ve been playing 20 years, no matter what phase I am going through, as long as there is a pool table I feel comfortable and at home. I have an ongoing search for perfection. I am never satisfied. I always want to reach the next level, the perfect game. I find daily motivation in the upcoming tournament and very little time to spend with my loved ones all around the world.
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CIERRA & MERRICK
CUNNINGHAM East Coast All Star Surfers
BOARD MEETING STATS:
Members of the Eastern Surfing Association’s 2012 All Star Team. Compete locally and nationally in Amateur and Professional level. Cierra: Champion of 2011 NSSA Southeast Regional Junior Women and Open Women. Merrick: fourth place in 2011 ESA Junior Men East Coast Championships.
What inspires me?
Cierra: “My dreams and desired future accomplishments drive me -- I think about what I want and search for a way to achieve it.” Merrick: I’m motivated by good waves. Living in Florida, I’ll surf any ripple on the ocean, but when we get a big hurricane swell or I have the opportunity to travel to a location with sets over my head, that is my perfect day!”
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VICTOR HUBER third Degree Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt
SEIZE THE MOMENT STATS:
Third Degree Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt under Royler Gracie, World Champion Pro-Division Heavyweight, Gracie Worlds 2005, Multiple top finishes in Pan-American Games, Brazilian Nationals, World Championships
What inspires me?
It’s the brotherhood inside my dojo -- the family atmosphere, which keeps me going. Egos are checked at the door. This art strips you of the mental baggage you accumulate during the day as soon as you hit the mat. Once you are forced to focus on the simplicity of survival, all that matters is protecting your neck, only then have you faced your demons. Once you achieve that inner peace of having survived a choke or a near submission, you have arrived and been rebuilt. Now anything is possible when you step out of the dojo and walk back into the world.
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SHAWN BURKE IronMan Triathlete
Open road STATS:
Ironman Triathlete, husband and father of three boys, 16-time Ironman finisher with PR of 9:23, 4-time Ironman Hawaii finisher and 5-time USA Triathlon All American.
What inspires me?
I am inspired by a child’s vision of the world. One where there is only opportunity and success. My sport is actually a very simple game that most third graders play every day. We swim … we bike … we run around. But somehow, as with everything adults do, we make it MUCH more complicated. So, I am inspired by the beauty of childish optimism and a belief that anything and everything is possible.
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Paparazzi
Photography By: Ella Fraser
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The Newest On Body Contour By: Nia Gonzi
With today’s technology, looking and feeling your best has never been easier (or more relaxing). When diet and exercise aren’t enough to give you the body you deserve, there’s an advanced new procedure designed to target subcutaneous fat resulting in dramatic inch loss. Dr. Derek Thorpe’s med spa, Tuscan Bliss, located in Jacksonville Beach offers this discrete and sophisticated Body Contouring service thanks to the invention of the Lapex BCS 2000 LipoLaser. Being one out of only three med spas in the city to provide this type of service, Dr. Thorpe of Tuscan Bliss provides a unique, noninvasive procedure to reduce the buildup of subcutaneous fat via the use of Lapex BCS 2000 LipoLaser. LipoLaser Body Contouring is an innovative method designed to treat stubborn areas of fat that do not respond to diet and exercise. The Lapex BCS 2000 is a low level laser technology that disrupts fat cell membranes causing the cells to shrink by releasing intracellular fat. The outcome is effective and noticeable, resulting in inch loss around the neck, waist, hips, thighs, back and arms. “It shrinks fat,” Dr. Gerhart, MD, as seen on FOX 40 NEWS said about the Lapex BCS 2000, “We see it shrink fat!” The Lapex BCS 2000 LipoLaser is the only patented noninvasive painfree spot fat reduction technology in ex58 |
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istence. With the use of paddles that remain static against the skin to penetrate deeper into the subcutaneous layer, maximum treatment results are achieved by targeting the key areas that are most troubling for each individual. In addition to the multi-treatment paddles, the Lapex BCS 2000 is the only laser therapy that uses enhancement probes to stimulate the lymphatic system during treatments which enhances lymphatic drainage and optimizes the processing of released molecules. The treatments are comfortable, relaxing, timely, and require minimal supervision by the technician. Once the paddles are placed on the treatment area, the guest can relax and let the laser do all the work. For ten minutes after the treatment, the use of a whole body vibration platform is incorporated to include greater lymphatic stimulation and improved circulation and muscle activation. The LipoLaser will release 40 to 60 grams of fat during a typical 40 minute waistline treatment. This represents the equivalent of 400 to 500 calories that must be expanded in order to ensure they are not being reabsorbed by the fat cells. While the results of Tuscan Bliss’ LipoLaser Body Contouring are visible in inch loss, it is not uncommon to see weight loss when the appropriate diet and exercise routines are combined with the treatments. Dr. Thorpe opened Tuscan Bliss in December and is very proud to offer the LipoLaser Body Contouring procedure. You’re in good hands when you go to Tuscan Bliss and you’ll love being in your skin when you leave thanks to the Lapex BCS 2000 LipoLaser Body Contouring service.
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HEALTH
Good Things Come
in Small
Packages By: Heather LePetrie, C.H.H.C., AADP
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So, it is that time of the year again when everyone wants to be looking fantastic and glowing in their bathing suits, sleeveless dresses, and maybe even their Speedos. Of course, lifting weights at the gym, crunching in a pilates class, or sweating it out in power yoga will help, but indeed it all comes down to what we put into our bodies. Sure, we can eat healthy -- a large salad with various greens, colorful vegetables and lean protein -- but there are smaller things we can do to keep our interiors healthy that have the added benefit of trimming the waistline. PROBIOTICS Let’s begin with the facts of probiotics. The root of the word probiotic comes from the Greek word “pro”, meaning “promoting” and “biotic,” meaning “life.” Our digestive system normally has what is called live microorganisms, or “good” and “bad” bacteria, and maintaining balance of the good and bad leads to optimum health. Since everything from medications to our diet to environmental issues can disrupt the balance, taking probiotics may be a “pro” for you. What does the bacteria in your gut have to do with your waistline? Although few studies have been done linking weight loss and probiotics, the studies in just the past few years are compelling enough for me to take notice of these powerful bac-
teria. They not only aid in fighting disease within our bodies, but may also reduce belly fat. In a recent study, obese people were able to reduce their abdominal fat by nearly five percent, and their subcutaneous fat (the fat just underneath the skin) by over three percent just by drinking a probiotic-rich fermented milk beverage for 12 weeks. The control group in this same study experienced no significant fat reductions at all during the study period. Scientists in another study discovered that a specially-engineered strain of probiotics helped influence metabolism and beneficially alter body fat composition in a group of mice. Designed specifically for the study, the lactobacillus strain contained conjugated linoleic acid (a fatty acid previously found to decrease body fat in humans). According to the study’s authors, these findings suggest that specialized probiotics may play a role in obesity prevention. Considering that eighty percent of the immune system is located
High in Omega 3 and antioxidants, this little seed has a future in your life.
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in your gut, it is wise to ensure that you can get a regular supply of good bacteria. Having a good ratio of good and bad bacteria is also essential for digestion of food and absorption of nutrients, eliminating toxins and preventing allergies. So where do you get these little microorganisms? In addition to supplements, you can get that good bacteria from foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and miso.
water, research suggests that this reaction also takes place in the stomach, slowing the process by which digestive enzymes break down carbohydrates and convert them into sugar. This exceptional gelling action keeps you feeling full for a long time, and you’ll be packing in the rich amount of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants! In addition, the chia seed’s gelling action along with its uncommon
CHIA SEED Another petite sized punch is the ever-popular chia seed. As a major crop in Mexico between 1500 and 900 B.C., chia is undergoing somewhat of a renaissance after centuries of neglect (except in the 80’s when we were growing our chiapets having no idea that these seeds were full of nutrients.) Chia provides a nutty flavor along with fiber, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, copper, iron, niacin, and zinc to name a few. You can sprinkle the seeds on cereal, veggies, salads, or grind them and mix with flour when making muffins or baked goods. They can also be used as a substitute for butter in some baking recipes. Back to the bikini reason for eating chia. Because of chia’s unique characteristic to expand and form a gel when added to
combination of soluble and insoluble fiber combine to slow down your body’s conversion of starches into sugars. This means that chia helps with balancing blood sugar, keeping you from extreme highs and lows throughout the day. If you eat chia with a meal, it will help you turn your food into constant, steady energy which will in turn, cause you to feel more invigorated. Chia seeds are readily available at health food stores and online.
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So, my suggestion for this summer season is to eat probiotic-filled yogurt sprinkled liberally with some chia seeds, and slip into your bikini. Enjoy! For more information, visit: www.betterliving-nl.com
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0 to 60
In 3.2 Seconds Breaking down Henry Ford’s work of genius
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Ford GT
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0 to 60 in 3.2 Seconds? It was more like zero to one hundred in two seconds
as PVL took pole position on Beach Boulevard. J7 Motorsports was kind enough to introduce us to an exceedingly rare collector grade supercar currently available on the showroom floor. The pristine 2006 Ford GT with only 670 miles is in absolutely factory mint condition. Not to mention it’s an iconic piece of American motoring history. When asked by a European intermediary if he wanted to buy Ferrari, Henry Ford II simply replied “I would rather push a Ford than drive a Ferrari.” I guess it is different if you have the opportunity to buy the whole company. 66 |
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I can only imagine the thought of owning a company manufacturing racecars -must be like a dream come true to people like Henry Ford II who had the means to buy one. Even Ratan Tata whose rise to fortune with the affordable small car, Tata Nano, couldn’t resist buying Jaguar.
We all know Ford never bought Ferrari. The word is Henry Ford got a little too greedy and monopolistic. He told Enzo Ferrari, who was to remain sole operator of his Ferrari’s motor sports division, that he would not be allowed to race in the Indianapolis 500 if Ford bought the company because Ford fielded Indy cars using the company’s engine, and didn’t want competition from Ferrari. Enzo cut the deal off out of spite and retained the ownership of Ferrari. Henry Ford II, enraged, directed his racing division to find a company that could build a Ferrari-beater on the world racing circuit in endurance races. He assembled an international collection of engineers to form a successful product development team. The rest as they say, is history. Henry went on to make
the Ford GT40, a high performance 7-liter V-8 sports car and winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans four times in a row from 1966-1969 covering 3252 miles at speeds over 200 mph in 1967. Impressive as these figures are, victory at Le Mans is more than a speed contest. It is regarded as the ultimate proof of reliability and performance, and a public testimony of engineering excellence.
As the price and rarity of the
Ford GT40 increased, so did the demand for a continuation model. In 2004, the Ford GT began as a concept car designed in anticipation of the automaker’s cen-
tennial year. The GT was produced in model years 2005 and 2006 for a total of 4,038. The GT is similar in appearance to the original Ford GT40 cars, but bigger, wider and three inches taller than the original forty inches. As with many exotic vehicles, when the Ford was first released, the demand outpaced supply, and the cars initially sold for premium prices. The Ford GT is an American legend and certainly one of the most aggressive and smoothest looking muscle cars ever. Most people define it as a sports car, but some see it as an American Muscle Car. The Ford GT is destined to become a hot seller at car auctions because demand for this supercar was simply never filled, especially with it remaining so coveted in Europe. Car collectors are being told to keep a sharp eye on the Ford GT as a perennial contender for one of the most sought-after cars on the market!
rience.”
J7motorsports specializes in the sale of special interest motorcars such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, and many other exotic vehicles. Their goal is simple… “To provide the highest quality, low mileage, and pristine exotics with an uncompromising commitment to our customers and their buying expe-
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Flavor
Better
Bites Translating higher cuisine to the Jacksonville market is Chef Cooley’s main focus. Embrace culinary experience and the love for creating delicious food at The Good Food Company. Out of this world New Zealand lamb is what brands him. Here, meats are carefully cured, smoked and preserved to perfection. All it takes is a few steps towards the chef’s block to muddle your senses a bit and experience culinary skills at arm’s reach. Pour yourself your favorite Pinot Noir and enjoy this magnificent New Zealand made- PERFECT. Enjoy!
New Zealand Lamb lamb 1 cup of milk 1/4 lb of butter 1/2 cup of all purpose flour 1/2 white onion 3 gloves of garlic 1 lemon 68 |
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4 oz of whole grain mustard 2 potatoes 1 egg 1/4 cup of bread crumbs 1/4 cup parmesan Bechemel Heat sautee pan, add butter and flour in hot pan, whisk together until butter is melted, slowly add milk to thicken, add salt and pepper to taste add whole grain mustard, squeeze of lemon Croquette Boil potato until soft. Caramelize onion and garlic, add all ingredients together in mixing bowl: potato, garlic, onion, bread crumbs, egg, salt and pepper, lemon squeeze, parmesan. mix together in bowl until thick, form into shape and bake at 325 for 10 minutes. Lamb Season lamb rack and grill to ideal temp.
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Pulse
Fascial Stretch Therapy Stretch Your Way to Health
By: Jodi Fizer Model: Sonila Durollari There are many ways to stretch the body in order to improve flexibility. Some perform passive stretching as in yoga. Others may do active stretching as in pilates. But, the optimal way to stretch is thru Fascial Stretch Therapy (FST). FST was created by Ann and Chris Fredricks in 1996 to improve athletic performance while reducing injury. The focus of FST is not on just stretching out a particular muscle but rather stretching out the joints and all the tissue in between. FST manipulates, lengthens and realigns fascial in a painfree manner thus allowing for improvements with posture, muscle activation and relaxation. Significant gains can be noted after the first session with results becoming cumulative with multiple sessions. 72 |
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What is FST? FST is a tablebased assisted stretching technique in which stabilizing straps are used to encourage complete relaxation and optimal stretch. The stretching movements are smooth and rhythmical in nature and are synchronized with the client’s breathing pattern. The mechanical action of inhaling and exhaling works synchronously with your nervous system which in turn influences your heart rate and blood pressure. The tempo of the stretch can be fast or slow depending on the objective of the stretching session. If the objective is to gain or restore flexibility, the tempo will be slow to very slow. If the objective is to prepare the athlete for athletic performance, the temp will be fast to very fast.
The benefits to stretching are numerous. For the athlete, it will improve strength, speed, power, agility and quickness. When an athlete achieves 20% more range than their sport requires, a significant reduction in injuries is also noted. This is due to the fact that the athlete’s body is better able to absorb and transfer the forces encountered in the sport, thus protecting the tissue and preventing injuries. For the non-athlete, stretching will improve posture, increase balance and reduce muscular soreness and tension. It will also reduce or eliminate back problems and pain. Why the need to stretch? The body’s fascia is made up of three components: collagen, elastin and water. Collagen, the most abundant protein in humans, is represented by tendons which are resistant to pulling forces. Elastin is more extensible to pulling forces and is represented by ligaments. The final component, water, makes up 60% of the body mass in males and 55% in females. As we age, our bodies tend to get stiffer. This is because the percent of collagen increases, the elastin quality decreases, and we tend to get more easily dehydrated. As a result, we lose 10% of motion for every 10 years we age. No matter what your objective is, whether it is to improve athletic performance or just your functional performance, Fascial Stretch Therapy will help you reach your goals. FST should only be performed by a certified practitioner. To locate a provider and learn more about fascial stretching go to: www. stretchtowin.com.
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healing
Naturally Healing The Planet It is a fact that our body is always attempting to achieve balance on its own. Trying to discover the best wellness program can be confusing and at times seem like a futile exercise. We eat the best diet we can and take the appropriate supplements. How do we know what we are eating and taking is really working for us? Taking into account our unique lifestyles and individual bodies seems to involve guesswork, intuition and even faith. Fortunately, there is an approach to the quest for health and inner balance that is accurate and tailored to the individual. Master Herbalist Eileen Kampfe has combined herbology and a Multi Interdisciplinary Team approach with the goal of connecting and integrating different academic professions and technologies to address patient needs and restore 74 |
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health and healing to the entire body. What options do we have when western medicine doesn’t have the answers? From cancer, allergies, migraines and even hormonal issues ranging from fertility to menapause, Kampfe’s team provides hope and options. It is treatment that takes into account the whole person, using a formula that is individually designed and works toward cleansing and nourishing all of the body’s systems from the inside out. Educating patients about the body’s warning signs is just the first step to total wellness. Uncovering the truth behind the warning signs is discovered through a variety of holistic services to provide the most effective treatments available for both immediate symptom relief and long-term wellness.
Master Herbalism Master Herbalism is based on the medicinal use of plants and their healing properties. Herbalists do not claim to have the cure for particular diseases. Herbs are used to assist the body in selfhealing. A full inventory of each patient’s health history is recorded and suggestions are given on nutrition, lifestyle and natural healing methods. Herbal infusions are prepared at the clinic and given to the patient. Your particular combination suits you alone. There are several different means that are used to help determine the appropriate plan that an individual should follow. Each tool is utilized on a case by case basis to evaluate and discover what the weakest system in the body may be.
Foot Detox and Reflexology Alternative medicine involving the physical act of applying pressure in zones and reflex areas which corresponds to every part, gland and organ of the body. The goal is to determine how the patient’s blood is oxygenating. Derived from traditional Chinese medicine, foot detoxifying is based on the same basic principles as acupuncture, but the practitioner focuses on the anatomical meridians in the patient’s feet. Since the soles of the foot are the furthermost point for the circulation of blood and lymphatic fluids, reflexology points in the feet have an increased potential for the build-up of harmful toxins. The toxins are eliminated through the feet into the foot bath and then reflexology points are stimulated to encourage the body to focus on the weak areas.
Acupuncture Acupuncture is not a method, but a set of principles based on anatomy and physiology. These principles involve stimulation of certain points throughout the body tissues using the meridian system. Acupuncture can also be performed by using electrical stimulation, providing excellent results for a wide variety of ailments. Electro-Acupuncture is a variation of traditional acupuncture. Acupuncture needles are placed at selected points and then pulsed with an electric current to stimulate or “re-boot” the acupuncture points.
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nese Ryodoraku: a specific form of acupuncture developed by the Japanese; ryodo points are very close to or at the site of acupuncture points. Ryodoraku lines are comparable to acupuncture meridians. Ryodoraku evaluation of the acupuncture meridians also known as “Electro Meridian Imaging” or “Electronic Pulse Diagnosis” is an extremely accurate diagnostic meridian examination.
Biological Terrain Analysis This is a measurement of three vital biological factors – acid-alkaline balance, oxidative stress and mineral concentration which can be detected in urine and saliva to identify the true status of the body’s internal biochemistry. It could explore whether or not the enzymes in your body are functioning properly or if there were any chemical or biological stresses occurring in the body increasing the patient’s susceptibility to illness. The Biological Terrain Assessment does not diagnose a specific condition or disease process, however it does provide valuable information about the underlying biochemistry or biological terrain of your body. This, in combination with any bloodwork done in a laboratory is essential. Anyone, ranging from those suffering from serious illness to those who seek healthy living advice, can visit the Master Herbalist and her Multi Interdisciplinary Team, which includes chiropractic, microcurrent therapy and massage. The team approach works well because each person receives custom care that is designed for them alone by a group of holistic practitioners whose focus is on individual YOU. To learn more contact Master Herbalist Eileen Kampfe at: Dunn Wellness Center Jacksonville Beach . 904.249.1551 www.dunnwellness.com 76 |
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For Mental Clarity Even Days: 1 cap DHA – good fats/omegas 1 cap evening primrose oil 1 raw organic egg 2 tsp ghee 8oz soaked sesame, flax, sunflower seed milk (or purchase almond milk) Odd Days: 1 tsp sesame oil 1 tsp sunflower oil
Energy Blast 12 oz milk (cow, nut, etc.) 2.5 oz protein powder 1 raw organic egg 1 cup yogurt 1 piece of fruit (apple, pear, etc.)
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