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Health & Wellness Issue

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Fill Your Cup!

January 2026 PUBLISHER

As we step into a brand-new year, I’m reminded of a truth we often acknowledge but rarely prioritize: you cannot pour from an empty cup. In the rush of daily responsibilities, family, career, community, and the constant demands of a fast-moving world, it’s easy to overlook our own needs. Yet our personal, professional, and financial success all flow from the same source: our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. January offers us a fresh start, a natural invitation to pause, reset, and intentionally care for ourselves. True wellness is not just about gym memberships or green smoothies (though those help!). It is the holistic alignment of mind, body, and spirit. It is carving out space to breathe, think, and reconnect. It is strengthening our bodies so we feel good in our daily lives. It is protecting our peace and nurturing relationships with the people we love most. Just as we tune in to our personal health, it is also time to check in on our digital health. Technology is evolving at lightning speed, and with the rise of AI-driven scams and increasingly sophisticated online fraud, staying informed and vigilant is no longer optional. It is essential. Updating passwords, enabling multifactor authentication, and having honest conversations with loved ones about digital safety are all part of modern wellness. When our technology is secure, our families, finances, and peace of mind are protected. This month’s issue celebrates the full spectrum of health and wellness because thriving in today’s world means tending to every part of who we are. You will meet local experts, businesses, and neighbors who are dedicated to helping our community feel stronger, live safely, and welcome the new year with renewed energy. As you read through these pages, I hope you are inspired to give yourself the gift of restoration. Schedule that check-up, take that walk, unplug for an afternoon, treat yourself with grace, and remember that caring for yourself is not selfish. It is foundational. When your cup is full, you show up better for your family, your work, and your community. Here’s to a year of health, clarity, strength, and intentional living. May 2026 be your most rejuvenating year yet. With gratitude,

ANGI BURNS, PUBLISHER @ALLENCITYLIFESTYLE

Angi Burns | angi.burns@citylifestyle.com S O C I AL M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R

Hang Le | hang.le@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Deborah Dove | debie.dove@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R

Valerie Merrick | valerie.merrick@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R

Kathy Moreno | kathy.moreno@citylifestyle.com STAF F W R I T E R S

Deborah Dove, Saanavi Shah, Fatima Durrani, Averly Burns STAF F P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Adeline Merrick: Merrick Multimedia, Zaharra Hemani Photography CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Bryce Washam C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

April Sapp Photography, Kevin Diomampo, Erin Price

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Allen City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Allen area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/ALLENTX

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Allen City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

inside the issue JANUARY 20 2 6 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

20 28

Featured

24 28 32 6

The Secrets in Your Mouth

The Connection Between Oral Health and Wellness May Surprise You

Diseases That Don’t Discriminate Self-Awareness Is Key in Preventing Skin Cancers

Health Doesn’t Just Mean Our Bodies Good Hygiene Practices to Secure Your Online Environment

Beyond the Body

How Somatic Movement and Dance Movement Therapy Support Whole-Person Well-Being

32 On the Cover

Departments

A serene moment of somatic dance movement, capturing Averly Burns in fluid, expressive motion. Soft, grounded movements reflect the connection between body and emotion, highlighting the therapeutic release and mindful embodiment central to this healing practice.

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Locally Sourced HEALTH + WELLNESS

Giving Back LIFE + CULTURE

Family Care HEALTH + WELLNESS

Skin Care PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Expert Help PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Mental Wellbeing ARTS + CULTURE

Education Corner EDUCATION

Events

Photography: Erin Price

HVAC Service & Repair

Keeping warm this Winter is the season when your HVAC system works hardest to keep your home warm and comfortable. Regular winter maintenance is crucial to ensure your system runs efficiently and reliably during these colder months. By checking components like the furnace, filters, and thermostat, you can prevent unexpected breakdowns, reduce energy consumption, and extend the life of your equipment. Don’t let a neglected HVAC system leave you out in the cold—schedule your winter tune-up with Big D Mechanical today and enjoy a worry-free winter.

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JANUARY 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

7 6

1 - 7: Allen City Lifestyle recently celebrated our valued partners at a Client Appreciation Event during an Allen Americans Hockey game. We love creating opportunities for our partners to connect with the right people in the right rooms, helping them grow their businesses. By carefully selecting partners whose brands align perfectly, we ensure every collaboration delivers meaningful synergy, making events like this both fun and impactful.

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C I T Y SC E N E

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JANUARY 2026

business monthly A ROUNDUP OF NEWS F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Swinging Into the New Year with a New Look Congratulations to The Golf Club at Twin Creeks in Allen, TX, located at 1555 N. Watters Road, Allen, TX 75013! The community came out in full support to celebrate this premier golfing destination. With beautifully maintained fairways, challenging holes, and top-notch amenities, the club offers an exceptional experience for golf enthusiasts of all levels. Wishing the team great success as they bring championship-level golf and a welcoming atmosphere to Allen.

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Allen Student Musicians Show Up at UIL Seventy-one Allen ISD middle school orchestra students earned All-Region honors, standing out among nearly 500 peers. Their dedication, talent, and hard work were on full display as they competed at a high level, bringing distinction to their schools and the community. This achievement highlights the strength of Allen ISD’s music programs and the commitment of their instructors in nurturing the next generation of musicians. Photography by Allen Independent School District

Congratulations Graduates! The Allen Citizens Police Academy recently celebrated the graduation of its latest class, honoring community members who completed an in-depth program designed to foster understanding, engagement, and collaboration with local law enforcement. Participants gained hands-on experience in areas such as patrol procedures, investigations, and public safety, building stronger connections between citizens and officers. This program exemplifies Allen PD’s commitment to transparency, education, and community partnership. Photography by Allen Police Department JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

ARTICLE BY DEBORAH DOVE

Local Experience D ISCOVER LOCAL GE MS, CRE AT E ME MO RIE S , A ND EM B R AC E AU TH ENTI C C O M M U NI TY EX P ER I ENC E S.

A new year is the ideal time to set new intentions and put your well-being front and center. Whether you’re looking to get active, shed a few pounds, or simply boost your mood, there’s never been a better moment to invest in yourself. Explore our roundup of local gyms, fitness centers, and other wellness resources designed to help you step confidently into 2026 as the healthiest, happiest version of yourself.

Body 20 | 926 Watters Creek Blvd, Allen, TX | Maximize your time and strength with personalized, one-on-one strength training in 20 minutes. Body20 uses an FDAcleared electro-muscle stimulation suit, couple with low-impact technology to pack real results into a techdriven, efficient workout experience. Haute Beauty Aesthetics | 241 Town Pl, Suite 101/103, Fairview, TX | This boutique luxury med spa offers anti-aging and skin treatments such as injectables, Hydrafacials, microneedling, chemical peels, and more to enhance your natural beauty and help you look and feel your best. Hidden Gym | 109 N Greenville Ave A, Allen, TX | Your journey to a stronger you starts here. With cardio, functional training, boxing classes, powerlifting, personal training, and more, Hidden Gym is home to athletes of every discipline. Bodybar Pilates | 596 E. Stacy Rd. STE 1150, Allen, TX | With classes ranging from classic Pilates to high-intensity variations like Power Tower and Jumpboard, the studio delivers a fun, supportive environment for anyone looking to elevate their fitness and feel stronger in the new year. The Tox | 930 Watters Creek Blvd, Allen, TX | Detoxify your body from the inside out. This unique service uses curated hand motions that work directly with your lymphatic and digestive system to eliminate excess toxins, reduce bloat, and provide a plethora of benefits.

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JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

ARTICLE BY SAANAVI SHAH PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF APRIL SAPP PHOTOGRAPHY

Nonprofit of the Month Treasured Vessels Foundation Gives Survivors a Safe Home to Heal It began with a question. Alicia, a Collin County native thriving in the medical industry, kept hearing the Lord’s call: “What are you going to do with your hands?” One night, the whisper became unmistakable. “You will build an aftercare facility for survivors of trafficking." These words set Alicia on a four-year journey of fundraising and program development. In 2020, her team opened the first home for the Treasured Vessels Foundation (TVF). Texas is second in the nation for sex trafficking, yet the number of long-term homes for adult survivors is devastatingly low. Many women trafficked as minors age out of the child welfare system at 18. Overnight, their support disappears, leaving them without resources or a safe place to continue healing. TVF provides the solution: a long-term, two-phase residential program. Melissa Wright, Community Impact and Survivor Advocate, explains that a core part of healing at TVF is letting go of damaging titles and embracing the identity God provides. She describes the shift in the words survivors begin to claim for themselves: “I am a child of God. I am not broken, I am healed. I am not dirty, I am beautiful and clean.” This transformation of identity is central in Phase One, a six-month program

G IV IN G BAC K | L I FE + C ULT U RE

dedicated to healing. Residents’ days are structured around holistic recovery, including equine therapy, art therapy, professional counseling, and medical care, all within a supportive home. “The healing piece is the hardest, right?” Wright shares. “What might take a couple months for one person to heal from might take double or triple the amount of time for a different resident. We all have our own stories and our own walk with the Lord.” After completing Phase One, residents can apply for the newly launched Phase Two, a separate home bridging survivors to an independent life. Here, women are mentored as they pursue education, secure employment, and practice life skills like budgeting for their own apartment. This expansion has doubled TVF’s capacity to serve. Healing from trafficking is both intensive and costly, and the power of this community relies entirely on the generosity of sponsors, donors, and volunteers. Beyond financial support, staff actively engage locally, attending Chamber of Commerce meetings and educating businesses and schools on signs of trafficking. One example of community support is Brothers Serving Others, a group of male volunteers who helped furnish the Phase Two home. Wright recounts how a

“ I am a child of God. I am not broken, I am healed. I am not dir t y, I am beautiful and clean.”

survivor, once angry and terrified toward men due to her trauma, was deeply touched by their kindness. “God truly healed me today,” the survivor told Wright. “I saw and met so many kind, genuine men who weren't looking at me in any weird way. They were just being kind. They were being brothers. I've never gotten to experience that.”

TVF welcomes support through volunteering, donating, or spreading awareness. Individuals can participate in hands-on activities at the homes, help with events like the spring concert or the fall gala, or contribute resources like vehicles or household items. To learn more, visit www.treasuredvessels.org. JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

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THE SECRETS IN YOUR MOUTH The Connection Between Oral Health and Wellness May Surprise You

ARTICLE BY FATIMA DURRANI PHOTOGRAPHY BY ZAHARRA HEMANI PHOTOGRAPHY

FAM ILY CA R E | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

When getting an annual dental checkup, you might believe your dentist is focused on identifying cavities, cleaning plaque, or monitoring your gumline for recession. Well, think again. The connection between your mouth and your body is quite profound, and it takes a well-trained practitioner to uncover the secrets lurking in the darkness of your oral cavity.

“The gut is related to the mouth. The gut is connected to the brain. In other words, it’s all connected, and we’re looking at the entire person when they’re sitting in that dental chair,“ explains Fatima Robertson, DDS, at the Center of Endodontics, Periodontics, and Implantology (CEPI). “By looking at your mouth, a dentist can pick up on certain diseases that haven’t manifested fully yet.” Cardiovascular disease and diabetes are two particularly concerning diseases. “When it comes to cardiovascular disease, if there’s a prevalence of bacteria in the mouth, it’s a red flag. That same bacteria is filtered in the blood stream, so the bacteria present in gum disease is the same bacteria that’s inside the heart and discovered in plaque. Similarly, the bacteria that breaks down the bone in gum disease is often found inside plaque too,” she explains. These bidirectional relationships are called comorbidities; that is, one has an effect on the other. “The more the mouth presents in an unhealthy state, the more we can assume that blood sugar may be out of whack too. If the Standard American Diet (SAD) is contributing to your diabetes, then it’s most likely contributing to oral health too,” Robertson says.

Most people wait until their oral health is in a state of degeneration before they visit the dentist. If your teeth bleed when you brush, it’s already a warning sign. While regular periodontal cleanings are great to keep you in a state of maintenance, it’s what you do at home that creates the largest impact. Dr. Robertson provides the following tips to maintain a good oral health routine: • Brush twice a day, floss once a day—and if you’re only going to brush once, do it at night, so bacteria doesn’t fester in your mouth’s dark, moist environment. • If using mouth rinses, avoid alcohol-based ones. • Reduce consumption of starches/sugar. • Reduce smoking and vaping, which contribute to dry mouth. • Avoid lower lip piercings. Significant trauma results when the piercing hits against the teeth, weakening the bone until eventually the lower front teeth become loose enough that they need to be extracted. • If pregnant, see your dentist at least every three months to prevent pregnancy gingivitis, which is associated with a higher chance of bone loss. CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

Besides offering root canals and other routine dental services, CEPI also provides a host of cosmetic services (from creating Hollywood “gummy” smiles to teeth whitening) and sedation dentistry (using IV anesthesia, which puts a patient’s whole body to sleep, mainly utilized for those with severe anxiety). With 27 years of experience and counting, the most important things to Dr. Robertson are continuing to push more education out into the public stratosphere and treating patients comprehensively. “Sometimes I’ve got to think like a physician when I see a patient with high A1C levels, or a dietitian and advise about food choices, or a therapist and talk about managing stress. When we’re under high stress, the more cortisol we pump out, and the less likely our bodies heal, resulting in more chances of gum disease.” Who knew that dentists could act like detectives? For more information, visit CEPI at 915 W Exchange Pkwy. #280, Allen, TX, 214-509-9011, cepi-allen.com.

“By looking at your mouth, a dentist can pick up on certain diseases that haven’t manifested fully yet.”

FAM ILY CA R E | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

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JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

DISEASES T H AT D ON ’ T DI S C R I M I N AT E ARTICLE BY FATIMA DURRANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADELINE MERRICK: MERRICK MULTIMEDIA

S KIN CA R E | P RO FES SI O N AL SE RVICE S

SELF-AWARENESS IS KEY IN PREVENTING SKIN CANCERS

Skin cancer is the great equalizer. People of all races, skin types, complexions, and ages are fair game and subject to the damaging effects of UV exposure. In fact, sun damage is a primary cause of skin aging and an integral risk factor for skin cancer. The two most common categories of skin cancer are melanoma and non-melanoma. The two prevalent types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), both of which fall under the non-melanoma category. Melanoma is the third most common type and considered more deadly, and yet less diagnosed. Non-melanoma skin cancers can present as a scaly pink patch or bump that doesn’t resolve over time, or as a spot in the skin that bleeds spontaneously or itches and hurts, and could be raised or flat. “All types of skin cancers can spread to lymph nodes if neglected,” explains Tanya Reddick Rodgers, M.D., at Skin Specialists of Allen. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends that adults (ages 18+) should receive a skin exam from a dermatologist annually. In the office, what a dermatologist looks for are pigmented lesions that exhibit the following “ABCDE” characteristics: • Asymmetry (when one half doesn’t look like the other half) • Border (irregularity – it may not be a perfect circle/oval, or it may have a “tail” poking out of it) • Color (spots that contain colors in it – for example, uneven shades of brown, or brown with a splotch of red or blue) • Diameter (a spot that’s greater than 6mm in diameter, like the size of a pencil eraser) • Evolution (the spot looks different from the past or has new symptoms such as bleeding or itching) CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

High-risk individuals include those with a family history of skin cancer or abnormal moles; have light skin, eyes, and hair; may have experienced multiple sunburns; or/and may have experienced frequent tanning (whether via tanning beds or tanning in the natural sun). For high-risk individuals, an office visit every three to six months may be recommended. Warning signs include having pimples that are tender, itchy, contain pus, and/or last for two weeks or more. “Sometimes moles look similar and they match on our arm and leg—but then there’s that one mole that looks like nothing else and doesn’t go away and might be growing over time,” she informs. “We use a dermatoscope using polarized light, providing us a strong magnification in order to see the pattern of blood vessels and pigments in lesions. This can help us distinguish between benign versus abnormal pigmentation. We monitor the patients for change over time by comparing the patterns from visit to visit.” No one knows your body better than you do, and often the patient observes changes in their skin first. So in addition to performing regular self-checks, Dr. Rodgers offers the following skin health lifestyle tips: • Use sunscreen. If you’re sensitive to sunscreen, try Heliocare ® (a dietary supplement using an extract from the fern plant that reduces DNA damage). • Limit sun exposure to arms, neck, and face to 15 minutes a day (which is enough time to activate the body’s innate ability to manufacture vitamin D). • Avoid sun exposure during peak times (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and use sun protective clothing (especially if you work outside, such as wide-brimmed hats). • Take supplements that help to reduce the impact of the sun on skin cells, such as niacinamide, which can reduce both the inflammatory response and the risk of mutations, and/or polypodium leukotomos (sold under the brand Heliocare). In addition to performing surgeries and offering cosmetic procedures for all ages, Dr. Rodgers is grateful for the ability to build a rapport with her patients during examinations. “My patients are overall healthy and well; they are more likely to treat disease when they can see it and thus make lifestyle choices accordingly. They are visibly aware of their skin condition, which can often be painful, itchy, or embarrassing in public. Oftentimes, this motivation is more impactful than something like having high blood pressure, which is invisible and sometimes hard to track.” The world has made great strides in promoting skin cancer awareness through public campaigns around sunscreen use, especially as worrisome changes in our ozone layer continue. However, according to an October 2024 study by the National Institute of Health (NIH), there has been “a steady increase in melanoma incidence rates over the past decades; several factors contribute to this rise, including increased exposure to UV radiation, improved diagnostic capabilities and heightened skin cancer awareness.” Troubling? Indeed. But fortunately, we have power over our outcomes. If you’re suspicious about any changes in your skin, don’t wait. Reach out to Skin Specialists of Allen, 1101 Raintree Circle, Center 2 Ste. 250, Allen, TX., 972.649.6644, skinspecialistsoa.com.

S KIN CA R E | P RO FES SI O N AL SE RVICE S

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Have You Had Your Tech Check-Up? HEALTHY PRACTICES TO SECURE YOUR ONLINE ENVIRONMENT

Health isn’t just limited to our bodies. Everything from governments to companies to organizations can have health metrics. We follow good hygiene, such as brushing our teeth every day, to maintain physical health. Computers and networks also require ongoing good hygiene practices to secure the online environment. Good cyber hygiene involves systems, controls, and redundant safety measures. These practices form the foundation of a strong cybersecurity defense. Unfortunately, everyone is at risk for cyber-attacks, although certain people such as high net worth individuals, corporate leaders, and retirees often have a bull’s-eye on them for cyber criminals. When most businesses start, it falls on the owner, or maybe the office manager, to handle the IT decisions (among a million other responsibilities!). At the end of the day, they might just run down to the local big-box store, grab a computer with a home operating system that’s on sale, and call it good—without realizing the risk that decision creates for the business. Businesses must have robust, redundant systems in place to thwart the multitude of attack vectors that cyber gangs are utilizing to attack, ransom, and pillage businesses. It’s important to have an IT professional in your business’s corner to proactively evaluate and mitigate cyber attacks. The need for someone to help companies both big and small build protections for their IT systems is how Send IT was born. In 2018, the family-owned company began serving a wide range of industries across the metroplex and Collin County—from title offices, to law firms, to private equity, to manufacturing, to Allen’s own Allen Animal Clinic. Send IT Solutions, founded by Bryce Washum, is a Dallas-based IT service provider proudly serving SMBs in the United States. They handle all IT operations for a business—from budgeting, to support, to project execution for business owners. Additionally, Bryce is a senior partner at Digital Privacy and Protection, LLC, a monthly service that helps families and individuals protect their cyber life at home.

ARTICLE BY BRYCE WASHAM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADELINE MERRICK: MERRICK MULTIMEDIA

EXP E RT H E LP | P RO FES SION AL SE RVICE S

It’s not just businesses that have a cyber health score. So do individuals. Whether you’re a business owner or executive or a retiree enjoying your glory years, you need good cyber health in your personal life. ESSENTIAL HYGIENE: FOUR KEYS TO A STRONG DEFENSE There are a few important things you can do to ensure healthy cyber safety at home. 1. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication Implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds a vital layer of security to all logins. In most cases, a hacker can't breach an account protected by MFA— even if the cyber crook has the password. According to Microsoft, MFA can block 99.9 percent of attempted account compromise attacks. With that kind of track record, everyone should be using it on every login they have. 2. Strong Passwords and Password Managers Passwords remain a critical aspect of securing online accounts. Despite the increased use of biometrics, passwords still rule. Make sure you and your family use strong, unique passwords for each account. Avoid easily guessable information like birthdays or names. A password manager can help you generate and store complex passwords so you don’t have to remember them all. 3. Keep Devices Up to Date Outdated software creates vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit. Regularly update operating systems, applications, and device firmware. This ensures the latest security patches are in place and reduces your risk of attack. 4. Recognize and Report Phishing Phishing attacks are a common vector for cyber threats. Teach your family to identify phishing emails, suspicious links, and unsolicited attachments. Encourage them to verify the sender's email address and never provide sensitive information unless they are certain of the recipient's authenticity. CONTINUED >

“Businesses must have robust, redundant systems in place to thwart the multitude of attack vectors that cyber gangs are utilizing to attack, ransom, and pillage businesses.” JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

“It’s not just businesses that have a cyber health score. So do individuals. Whether you’re a business owner or executive or a retiree enjoying your glory years, you need good cyber health in your personal life.”

Phishing via text messages and direct messages on social media platforms has been increasing significantly. Warn and educate vulnerable family members about these threats. HELPING FAMILIES AND BUSINESSES PUT CYBER HYGIENE IN PLACE Send IT can help families and businesses refocus on the significance of cybersecurity and prioritize essential cyber hygiene practices. Building a culture of cybersecurity awareness within your family and your business is important. It can be the difference between vulnerability and resilience. For more information on securing your home or business network, reach out to Bryce via allen@senditsolutions.com.

EXP E RT H E LP | P RO FES SION AL SE RVICE S

ALLEN E YE CA R E CE NT E R Schedule! We love our Patients! “I had a great experience getting my eye exam at Allen Eyecare Center! Kara S and Jacob at the front desk welcomed me as soon as I walked in. They had great energy, and they took the time to smile and greet me. Dylan was an excellent technician and was very professional. Dr. Brooks is a wonderful doctor. He is very patient and takes the time to explain everything. Eye exams usually make me nervous, but the professional attitude of the staff and the friendly faces helped calm my nerves and let me have a great experience!” -Joanna

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JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

BEYOND ARTICLE BY AVERLY BURNS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ERIN PRICE

the

B O DY

How Somatic Movement and Dance Movement Therapy Support Whole-Person Well-Being I didn’t just discover somatic movement in a dance studio. I found it years into performing, during a period when stress felt louder than my own thoughts. As someone who grew up expressing myself through performing, I understood movement as art, yet I had never understood movement as communication. Of course, your body is the most accessible and useful tool that you have. That realization eventually led me into the study of somatic and dance/movement therapy, and today I am an emerging dance scientist completing my Bachelor of Science in Dance Science at Elon University. Through my work, I have seen how profoundly the body can speak when we learn how to listen. Somatic movement and dance movement therapy (DMT) are not about learning choreography or performing. They are about reconnecting to the body as a source of clarity and emotional regulation—something everyone can benefit from, regardless of age, background, fitness level, or experience.

WHAT IS SOMATIC MOVEMENT AND DMT?

Somatic simply means “of the body.” Somatic movement focuses on noticing physical sensations like breath, tension, posture, and rhythm to move with awareness rather than expectation. Think of it as a connection between your mind, body, and spirit. Dance/movement therapy is a form of clinical psychopathology that uses movement to support emotional, cognitive, physical, and social integration. In DMT, movement becomes a therapeutic tool much like a language. People often express through the body what they cannot yet express through words.

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THE SCIENCE, SIMPLIFIED

The body and mind are not separate. Movement directly influences the nervous system, helping regulate stress responses, reduce cortisol, and create a sense of grounding. When we move, we activate neural pathways that link emotional centers of the brain with areas responsible for logic, decision-making, and self-awareness. This is often called integration, and it is essential for emotional well-being. Somatic practices also help interrupt the body’s tendency to store stress physically through tightness in the chest, shallow breathing, or tension in the shoulders. Research shows that intentional, sensory-based movement supports greater resilience, clearer thinking, and improved mood. When your body feels regulated, your mind can follow.

WHO BENEFITS? (HINT: EVERYONE)

One of the biggest misconceptions about somatic movement or DMT is that it’s “just for dancers” or is performative. In reality, there is no right or wrong, no scoring and no judgement. If you can breathe, shift your weight, or way side to side, you can participate. These practices support: • Stress, anxiety, and burnout in adults and professionals • Trauma survivors, helping rebuild a sense of safety • Individuals with Parkinson’s disease, where research shows improved mobility and emotional regulation • Cancer patients, supporting both physical and psychological recovery • Children, using movement as a form of play therapy Movement is universal. It belongs to everyone.

“People often express through the body what they cannot yet express through words.” CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE DAY-TO-DAY

Somatic movement can be incredibly simple. A somatic stretch might involve slowing down long enough to notice where you’re tense, then gently releasing that area through breath and micro-movements. A mindful walk might mean feeling your feet connect with the ground, observing the way your arms naturally swing, or noticing the temperature of the air on your skin. Even swaying side to side, rocking forward and back, or placing a hand on the chest to feel your breath can shift your nervous system into a more regulated state. These small movements become daily rituals or micro-interventions that bring you back to your body when your mind feels loud.

FINDING SUPPORT

If you’re interested in exploring DMT, the American Dance Therapy Association provides a directory of board-certified dance/movement therapists across the country. Somatic movement educators can also be found in wellness centers, studios, and therapeutic spaces. In my own work, I offer private and group somatic movement sessions rooted in science-backed principles, and I share these practices through The Art of Coping, a nonprofit that supports children and teens in healing from trauma. My mission is simple: to make movement feel accessible, grounded, and transformative for every body.

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The Pharmacists of Tomorrow Students Gain Hands-on Experience Through Allen’s Pharmacy-Focused CTE Track The air is quiet, broken only by the click-clack of a pill-counting tray and a hushed, professional voice. “Can you confirm the date of birth?” A “pharmacist” in a white coat leans in, squinting at a prescription, checking it twice. The room carries the focused intensity of a real pharmacy, where a single mistake is not an option. But this isn’t a Walgreens. This is Allen High School, and these are students running a full-scale, simulated pharmacy—a capstone experience for a CTE pathway that is training the next generation of healthcare’s frontline. An immersive simulation is the final test, but the journey to become a pharmacist starts much earlier. This specialized program, led by Courtney Shelton, Allen High School’s Pharmacy 1 and Pharmacy 2 teacher, begins with a foundational year. In Pharmacy 1, students like junior Grant Nguyen build their theoretical skills. For Grant, the interest is deeply personal. “When I was a kid, I was intrigued by how medication could change how I felt," he shared. "That led to my interest in becoming a pharmacist.” While he anticipated the heavy science, Grant was also struck by the other

ARTICLE BY SAANAVI SHAH PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ALLEN ISD

EDU CAT ION COR N E R | ED U CAT ION

components of the curriculum, such as the work ethics that govern the healthcare industry. But beyond the excitement, the program is a serious reality check. The biggest misconception students have, Shelton says, is that the program is easy. The most challenging part is the sheer volume of information. To apply exam concepts into their future jobs, students must memorize the names and functions of 200 drugs, complete tricky dosage calculations, understand basic chemistry, and learn how to communicate effectively. Students who master the foundation continue to Pharmacy 2, where they move from theory to application. Shelton structures this advanced class as a 50/50 split between book work and lab work. She says, “The classroom learning prepares them for the hands-on [activities] because it teaches them all the basics of medication, preparation, and sterility.”

The labs are where this knowledge comes to life. “I have seen students’ eyes light up when we get into the lab and they do something as simple as pill counting,” Shelton said. This hands-on work begins with activities like compounding lip balm and escalates toward the fully immersive pharmacy simulation at the end of the second year. This rigorous training is essential because the stakes are so high. What makes this pathway so unique, Shelton explains, is its focus on indirect patient care: “[Pharmacists are] doing things that are vitally important to the patient’s safety. They make sure that someone's medication is the correct dosage, is the correct medication, [and that they are] not taking other medications that could contraindicate the medications that they are being prescribed.”

The program’s ultimate goal is to prepare students to sit for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam. Passing it earns them the CPhT, or Certified Pharmacy Technician, credential—a distinction, Shelton notes, that makes them highly sought after for the highest pay rates in their field right out of high school. The program is a demanding preview of a career that requires precision and dedication. But for those who stick with it, the reward is more than just a certification. It is a solid foundation for a long-term career and a deeper understanding of the healthcare ecosystem. For Shelton, the ultimate goal is human-centric: “I hope that every student takes away a love of healthcare and a passion for helping others.”

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A L L E N T X

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JANUARY 2026

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S JA NUA RY 8T H & 9 T H

Monthly Wine Tasting Elke’s Market Cafe: 105 N Greenville Ave., #11, Allen, TX 75002 | 5:00 PM Sip, savor, and discover something new at this cozy local tasting event! Enjoy a casual evening of wine tasting—just $10 per person—and sample a rotating selection of wines paired with delicious bites. The café menu will be available, along with a special dinner crafted to complement the wines. Find more details by calling the cafe at 214-495-0200. JA NUA RY 1 4 T H

North Texas Business Expo & Networking Social Credit Union of Texas Event Center: 200 E Stacy Rd., #1350 Allen, TX, 75002 | 4:00 PM The Business Expo & Networking Social is back and bigger than ever! Mingle with 200+ professionals, explore vendor booths, enjoy complimentary bites and happy hour sips, and spark meaningful connections across industries. Ready to grow your biz in a fun, high-energy space? Find more details and vendor info at www.allenchamber.com/events. JA NUA RY 1 9 T H

ECHL All-Star Classic Credit Union of Texas Event Center: 200 E Stacy Rd., #1350 Allen, TX, 75002 | 6:00 PM Hockey fans, get ready! The 2026 Warrior/ECHL All-Star Classic is coming to Allen, Texas, featuring epic matchups, Hockey Hall of Fame exhibits, and the ECHL Hall of Fame induction ceremony. It’s the ultimate celebration of the game. Grab your tickets and learn more at www.allenamericans.com/allstar. JA NUA RY 2 4 T H

Nightmare Road Trip Whodunit Mystery Diner Allen Senior Recreation Center: 451 E Saint Mary Dr., Allen, TX, 75002 | 7:00 PM Step into the golden age of American road trips with a 1950s-themed murder mystery dinner along Route 66. Solve a twisty whodunit as eccentric car club members while enjoying live entertainment and a delicious meal. Secrets, suspense, and retro flair await! Find more details at www.cityofallen.org/calendar.php. CONTINUED >

EVE N TS

JA N UA RY 2 4 T H

Disney Magic with Music Allen ISD Performing Arts Center: 300 Rivercrest Blvd., Allen, TX 75002 | 6:30 PM Experience the magic of Disney like never before with a live orchestral performance that will enchant guests of all ages. From princess ballads to heroic anthems, the Allen Philharmonic Orchestra brings beloved Disney classics to life in a concert full of wonder, nostalgia, and joy. Find details at www.allenpac.org/events. JA N UA RY 2 6T H

Allen Fire Department Community CPR Class Allen Central Fire Station: 310 Century Pkwy., Allen, TX, 75013 Gain the confidence to act in an emergency with this hands-on training led by local Allen firefighters. You'll learn essential, life-saving skills in a supportive and practical setting, because when seconds count, knowing what to do matters most. Don’t wait to be prepared. Learn more and register at www.allenfire.org.

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