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Health & wellness JA N UA RY 2 02 5

CULLMAN | HOLLY POND | HAYDEN DODGE CITY | ARLEY | PRICEVILLE

256-735-2121

www.traditionsal.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Happy New Year, Cullman! As we step into January, there’s no better time to focus on health, wellness and renewal. Here at Cullman City Lifestyle, we’re embracing the spirit of fresh starts and positive change, and we’re excited to bring you a month filled with inspiration and guidance to help you reach your health goals for 2024. In this issue, we’re thrilled to highlight local experts who are dedicated to helping our community thrive. You’ll find an inspiring feature on one of Cullman’s own fitness centers, where residents are transforming their lives one workout at a time. From local gyms to serene spas and the trusted care of our area’s finest doctors, we’ve curated resources that will inspire you to care for your body, mind and soul. At Cullman City Lifestyle, our mission is to connect you with the best our community has to offer. Here’s to a year of health, happiness and wellness for each of you! May this issue be your guide and companion on your journey to a vibrant, fulfilling year ahead. Wishing you all a happy and healthy 2024,

January 2025 PUBLISHER

Missy Gurley | missy.gurley@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R

Wendy Sack | wendy.sack@citylifestyle.com

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt COO Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CTO Ajay Krishnan VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

M I S S Y G U R L E Y, P U B L I S H E R @CULLMAN_CITYLIFESTYLE_

VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley AD DESIGNER Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

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

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Publications’ opinions. 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 Cullman 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 5 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

24 20 Featured

20 24 30 34 6

New year, new you Step into Evolve Fitness

Achieving your best self A look at plastic surgery

Soak it in

30 On the Cover

Departments

This photo highlights the various aspects of health and wellness represented throughout our January issue. There are many local businesses featured!

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Healthy Lifestyle BEAUTY

Self Care BEAUTY

Get Active FITNESS

Expert Help BEAUTY

Spa Day WELLNESS

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E

Eat Right FOOD + BEVERAGE

Locally Sourced HEALTH + WELLNESS

Enjoy a relaxing spa day

Bowl full of goodness Have you tried Hele Bowls?

Photography: Cullman City Lifestyle

JANUARY 2025

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

CULLMAN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE KELLEY PAYNE

5 RACHEL EIDSON, ELEVATE

RACHEL EIDSON, ELEVATE

BECKY BUSSEY AND EVIE KRENKEL

BROOKE WALKER

1: The beautiful Cullman Christikindlmarkt Christmas tree in Depot Park 2: GLS Supply celebrates the grand opening of its new Cullman showroom. 3: Beautiful ballerinas - Hattie Hayes and Scarlett Eidson 4: The Ballet Bus rolls through the Cullman Christkindlmarkt Parade. 5: Missy Gurley and Alabama Outdoor Lighting’s Kelley Payne at the RWO ribbon cutting 6: Becky Bussey and Evie Krenkel enjoy delicious Karma’s coffee and Cullman City Lifestyle! 7: Brooke, Kennedy and Kayden Walker at the Cullman Christkindlmarkt tree lighting

C I T Y SC E N E

TONYA PALMER, PALMER LAW FIRM

CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

KATELYN CRAWFORD DOOLEY CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE JAY BETTS

MANDY LEONARDI

8: The Dooley family turned this skeleton into the Grinch for some festive fun. 9: The Winterhaus at Cullman Christkindlmarkt sponsored by Cullman Savings Bank was a wonderful new addition. 10: Sierra, Ray and Tonya Palmer ran in the Publix 12K Battleship Run! 11: The Winterbahn was a fun addition to the Christkindlmarkt! Thank you Alabama Outdoor Lighting! 12: The Local Coffee Shop had these new Christkindlmarkt mugs! 13: The Christmas tree is all lit up in Depot Park. 14: Completing their letters to Santa at Kinderplatz are James, Michael and Samuel Leonardi. CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / C UL L M A N

city scene CONTINUED

15: The state’s tallest Ferris wheel aglow at Cullman Christkindlmarkt 16: A nativity scene at Cullman Christkindlmarkt 17: The Cullman Christkindlmarkt was bigger, brighter and merrier than ever! Photography by Jay Betts

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C I T Y SC E N E

JANUARY 2025

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

Elevate At Elevate, we believe intense workouts don't have to come at the expense of your joints or mobility. Our classes are specifically designed to provide challenging workouts that use your body weight and alignment to improve your strength, endurance, balance, flexibility and mobility. Our unique approach to fitness is what makes our classes suitable for individuals of all fitness levels, while still being incredibly effective. Get ready to love your workouts, with Elevate! Photography by Elevate

Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/ CULLMAN

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Opalbellemae Play Cafe LLC We're thrilled to announce that a brand-new Play Cafe is opening soon in Cullman! It's the perfect spot for kids to play, learn and create while parents relax with a delicious drink or treat. Keep an eye on Opalbellemae Play Cafe LLC on Facebook for exclusive updates and special offers — you won’t want to miss out! Stay tuned for more details, and get ready for a fun new adventure in Cullman! Photography by Opalbellemae

One Nation Premium CBD Oil Our team has the desire to provide premium CBD products at prices that make it possible to attain naturally occurring health benefits. Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in hemp. It is known for supporting the body and mind in numerous ways through the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Our expertise is the science of botanicals. Unlocking their power for you is our main goal. www.facebook.com/onenationcbd Photography by One Nation Premium CBD Oil JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / C UL L M A N

Wellness spa treatments Noninvasive solution transforms health and wellness Spas offer so many different services and options, it’s easy to find one that’s right for you. But don’t just think about facials and skincare treats. Beauty and wellness spas like By Grace Beauty & Wellness in Cullman - owned by Kayra Everett and Jen Woodard - offer aesthetic services like laser hair removal, weight loss, noninvasive body and facial sculpting, IV nutrition and even more specialized options - like Emsella. “One of our most popular services is our urinary incontinence treatment. Emsella is the only FDA-approved device for urinary incontinence treatment. The Emsella device is a revolutionary technology that transforms intimate health and wellness for both men and women, providing a completely noninvasive solution for urinary incontinence through a series of six to eight 30-minute sessions, which are scheduled once or twice a week,” said Everett. “Emsella, using HIFEM® technology, induces thousands of kegel-like pelvic floor muscle contractions in a single session,” she continued. “These contractions re-educate and strengthen weak pelvic floor muscles, restoring neuromuscular control and improving urinary incontinence in both men and women. The treatment is ideal for anyone who may suffer from weak pelvic floor muscles or urinary incontinence.”

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRACE BEAUTY & WELLNESS

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | BE AU T Y

What would Everet tell someone who might be hesitant to try it? “This device is completely noninvasive and requires no downtime. Also, clinical studies that have been performed show that this device improves incontinence,” she said. “If this issue is negatively impacting your quality of life, Emsella is definitely worth a try!” By Grace also offers Emsculpt NEO, a body sculpting treatment that is FDA-approved for 10 different parts of the body. And it offers a facial sculpting treatment, Emface, which has been branded a “nonsurgical facelift,” without the need for needles, surgery or anesthesia. By Grace Beauty & Wellness is located at 1928 Market Platz Center SW in Cullman. www.bygracebeautyandwellness.com

Emsella treatments are pain free, noninvasive and only take 30 minutes per session, typically done weekly.

T R E AT YOURSELF WELL

INDULGE IN A MEDICAL SPA EXPERIENCE ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK PHOTOGRAPHY BY HAWKINS MEDICAL & WELLNESS

IV infusions are given in a comfortable environment.

A medical spa is a combination of a day spa and medical clinic that offers nonsurgical aesthetic treatments. One such option in Cullman is Hawkins Medi Spa, part of Hawkins Medical & Wellness. “Our spa is a medical spa, often referred to as a med spa, and it combines the relaxing environment of a traditional spa with medical-grade aesthetic treatments. Our spa is overseen by licensed health care professionals Dr. Jeremy Hawkins and myself, an RN,” said Owner Jacy Hawkins.

S ELF CA R E | BEAUTY

Hawkins Medi Spa provides a wide range of services aimed at enhancing beauty, promoting wellness and addressing various skin concerns - all things a lot of people look to improve as they embark on a new year. Services offered include Botox and dermal fillers, chemical peels, microneedling (a technique that uses tiny needles to stimulate collagen production, improving skin texture and reducing scars), Hydrafacial (a popular noninvasive facial treatment that combines cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, hydration and antioxidant protection), infrared heat sauna, red light therapy, lymphatic drainage and a Halotherapy (salt therapy) room. Hawkins also offers additional services like specialized facials, nutritional counseling and wellness programs. “Our medical spa provides a comprehensive range of services that cater to both aesthetic and wellness needs. By combining advanced technology with relaxing spa experiences, they offer clients the opportunity to enhance their appearance and overall well-being in a professional and comforting environment,” Hawkins explained. “Always ensure that treatments are performed by qualified professionals to ensure safety and efficacy.” Someone who’s never stepped into a medical spa might feel a bit uneasy about what to expect. Hawkins offered some wise advice about what to consider that might ease any concerns. “Feeling self-conscious or hesitant about indulging in spa services is completely normal, and it's important to acknowledge those feelings,” she said. Points to consider: • Many people feel nervous or unsure about trying spa services, especially if it's their first time. You're not alone. • Investing time in self-care is essential for mental and physical well-being. Treating yourself to spa services can be a way to prioritize your health.

“Always ensure that treatments are performed by qualified professionals to ensure safety and efficacy.” • R esearching the various treatments offered can demystify the experience. Understanding what to expect can make you feel more comfortable. Most spas provide detailed information about their services online or through brochures. • Don’t hesitate to reach out to spa staff beforehand. They can address your concerns, explain the processes and ensure you feel comfortable. CONTINUED >

Jeremy and Jacy Hawkins

JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / C UL L M A N

• Medical spas are staffed by trained professionals who prioritize client comfort and safety. They are accustomed to working with individuals of all backgrounds and body types, and they aim to create a welcoming environment. • Spas typically maintain a high level of confidentiality and professionalism, ensuring your privacy is respected throughout your experience. • We offer personalized consultations to help create a treatment plan that suits your specific needs and concerns. This can empower you to make choices that feel right for you. • If you're unsure, consider starting with a simple service, like a facial. This can help you gradually acclimate to the spa environment. • Spa services can provide numerous benefits, such as stress relief, improved skin health and relaxation. Focusing on how these services can enhance your well-being may help alleviate • Many people find that spa treatments improve not only their appearance but also their confidence and self-esteem. • If you are still feeling hesitant, consider inviting a friend to join you. Having someone you trust by your side can make the experience more enjoyable and less intimidating. • Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or mindfulness, before and during your spa visit to help calm your nerves. • Remember that a spa visit is about taking time for yourself. Embrace the opportunity to unwind and indulge in self-care. • Acknowledge that choosing to invest in yourself is a positive step. Celebrate the courage it takes to try something new. “Ultimately, indulging in spa services can be a rewarding experience that contributes to your overall well-being. It's important to listen to your feelings but also to challenge

S ELF CA R E | BEAUTY

“Our medical spa provides a comprehensive range of services that cater to both aesthetic and wellness needs.” any negative self-talk that may be holding you back. By approaching the experience with an open mind and a sense of curiosity, you may discover not only the physical benefits of spa treatments, but also a newfound appreciation for self-care,” said Hawkins. www.hawkinsmed.com/hawkins-medi-spa

JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / C UL L M A N

New year, new you ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK PHOTOGRAPHY BY EVOLVE FITNESS

Most people start thinking about getting in shape this time of year, when new beginnings and goals are top of mind. We reached out to Logan Brooks, founder of Evolve Fitness in Cullman, to learn a little more about his business and the benefits of focusing on exercise. Here’s what he had to say.

CAN YOU GIVE ME A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF YOUR BUSINESS?

Evolve Fitness is a community-centered fitness studio in Cullman, Alabama, dedicated to empowering individuals to live healthier lives. We provide a welcoming, motivating atmosphere with personalized group training, rhythm cycling classes, nutritional guidance and a focus on connection and wellness.

STEP INTO EVOLVE FITNESS

G E T ACT IV E | FI TNES S

Evolve's music-driven rhythm cycling classes offer an empowering, full-body workout that combines cardio, strength and fun in a high-energy environment.

"SET REALISTIC GOALS, FIND A WORKOUT ROUTINE YOU GENUINELY ENJOY AND SURROUND YOURSELF WITH SUPPORTIVE PEOPLE WHO WILL HELP YOU STAY ACCOUNTABLE." LOGAN BROOKS CAN YOU EXPLAIN THE CLASSES AND OTHER THINGS YOU OFFER?

Our offerings include rhythm cycling classes, led by passionate instructors who guide members through musicdriven, high-energy workouts. We also provide personalized strength training sessions in a group setting, focusing on proper form and tailored techniques to help members achieve their goals safely and effectively. We prioritize affordability while delivering an unmatched fitness experience.

WHAT MAKES EVOLVE DIFFERENT FROM OTHER FITNESS CENTERS?

At Evolve, we’re more than a gym — we’re a family. We focus on building relationships, creating a culture of support and providing personalized attention at an affordable price. Our rhythm cycling and personalized strength training programing is one-of-a-kind in the area, and we strive to help members thrive both physically and mentally.

BEYOND PHYSICAL HEALTH, WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER THE BIGGEST BENEFITS OF REGULARLY VISITING A GYM OR FITNESS CENTER?

Regularly visiting a fitness center can boost mental clarity, reduce stress, improve confidence and foster a sense of community. At Evolve, we emphasize these aspects, ensuring that members leave not only healthier, but also more connected and uplifted.

Carlie Warnke, Logan Brooks, Madeline Brooks and Makenlie Pitzing

Evolve's personalized strength training classes are designed for all fitness levels.

“GETTING HEALTHY” IS PROBABLY THE NO. 1 NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A NEWBIE ABOUT HOW TO STICK WITH IT THROUGH THE WHOLE YEAR?

Start small and focus on consistency rather than perfection. Set realistic goals, find a workout routine you genuinely enjoy and surround yourself with supportive people who will help you stay accountable. At Evolve, we’re here to make fitness fun, sustainable and something you’ll want to keep coming back to all year long. Evolve Fitness is located at 207 Second Ave. SE in Cullman. Find out more at www.evolvefitnessal.com. JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / C UL L M A N

“Dr. Martin really cares about her patients. She goes above and beyond what she should have to… I believe she was God sent. I highly recommend Dr. Martin for any Plastic Surgery” -Beth Reviews

@MORGANMARTINMD SeidelMartinPlasticSurgery.com 256-739-9993

JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / C UL L M A N

ACHIEVING YOUR BEST SELF

A look at plastic surgery ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTEN TANNER

EXP E RT H E LP | BEAUTY

Plastic surgery isn’t just about improving someone’s appearance. It’s also about boosting self-confidence, improving health and overall well-being - as well as a part of healing after a traumatic injury or aggressive medical treatment. Dr. Morgan Martin is a double board-certified plastic surgeon at Seidel + Martin Plastic Surgery & MedSpa in Cullman. She performs a wide range of procedures, from aesthetic to cosmetic to reconstructive. “I perform facial rejuvenation such as face and neck lift, upper and lower eyelid lifts, brow lifts and fat grafting. This is often paired with skin resurfacing such as aggressive CO2 laser to help with texture, pigment and fine lines. I also do cosmetic breast and body surgery such as breast augmentation, revision breast surgery, body contouring and high-definition liposuction,” she said. “I commonly perform breast reconstruction, breast reduction and a lot of facial reconstruction after skin cancer resection.” Martin said her most common surgery is breast lifts with implants. “This is a very popular surgery, since I do a limited incision breast lift as well as a preservation breast augmentation (when appropriate) which patients love. This is often combined with a tummy tuck (called a mommy makeover). Patients are often surprised at how ‘easy’ their recovery is with our perioperative pain

control program which makes this very popular in our practice,” she explained. “The second most common is eyelid surgery. This is because it has minimal pain and recovery, but gives you such a nice, refreshed look.” Martin advised, “Patients considering cosmetic surgery should be in good health or with good control over medical problems such as diabetes. They also should be at their goal weight for body contouring, for a few reasons. First, I can really maximize results and help you reach your goals. For example, I perform 360 liposuction with tummy tucks, but I am limited per session on the amount of total volume removed for safety reasons, so starting at goal weight allows me to focus on performing high definition instead of volume reduction. We also know that patients with BMI Opposite left, top: Left to right are Debra Hatcher; Brandy Morgan; Brigitte Whaley; Kayla Williams, CRNP; Philip Jones, CRNA; Steven Seidel, MD; Morgan Martin, MD; Paige Rocca; Britney Moore; and Reagan Tyree of Seidel + Martin Plastic Surgery & MedSpa in Cullman. Opposite left, bottom: Dr. Morgan Martin Opposite right, bottom: Dr. Morgan Martin gets ready to administer a treatment. Above: Dr. Morgan Martin consults with a patient. CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / C UL L M A N

EXP E RT H E LP | BEAUTY

WWW.SEIDELMARTINPLASTICSURGERY.COM

DR. MORGAN MARTIN

YOUR BEST SELF, WHETHER SURGICAL OR NONSURGICAL.”

“THERE IS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE TO HELP YOU BE 26

Dr. Morgan Martin in surgery

greater than 35 have higher risks of complications such as wound healing difficulties. Of course I evaluate this on a case by case basis, since it is such a flawed metric. I do work with patients to reach their goals before, during and after surgery!” On the benefits of plastic surgery that someone might be surprised to learn, she said, “I think most people are shocked by how much better they feel. Not just psychologically. For example, removing excess skin from the abdomen and fixing

the ab muscles when separated does help with back pain, incontinence and posture. Any hernias are also repaired. When the muscles are realigned, it optimizes abdominal wall strength and supports the spine.” She continued, “Another surprise to most people is that you can have a neck lift at a young age. If you genetically have a bulky or ‘obtuse' neck, one with a poorly defined jawline, you can have a fairly limited neck lift without significant recovery and have fantastic results. I am a true believer in whole body health, feeling and being your best self. We can work together to achieve those goals.”

JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / C UL L M A N

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The Corner Soak and Spa is located in a beautiful 1934 historical home at 501 Third St. SW.

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE CORNER SOAK & SPA

Enjoy a relaxing spa day

Soak It In A great idea for a post-holiday treat? A spa day! And you don’t have to drive to a bigger city to enjoy one. A fantastic option right here in Cullman is The Corner Soak and Spa, located in a beautiful 1934 historical home at 501 Third St. SW. The spa is elegant and is the perfect setting for a full day of pampering or a single treatment, nestled in a tranquil space on the northwest side of downtown.

S PA DAY | W EL L NES S

One of the soak rooms at The Corner Soak and Spa

“Every day we have a team of massage therapists and estheticians and two soak rooms and a treatment room where we offer Hydrafacials, SkinPen microneedling and chemical peels,” said Owner Molly Hardin. “We also offer body scrubs, sugar waxing and a sauna.” Hardin said the spa’s packages are the biggest treats. “Gather some friends and spend the afternoon together in our spa lounge while enjoying a day of multiple treatments,” she said. “Or plan a half day with your favorite person and come to our private cottage.” The cottage at The Corner Soak and Spa has two massage tables, two soaking tubs, a private bathroom and private lounge. You and your companion can enjoy the time together with a hand-picked package of services. So what is a soak, exactly? It’s a salt bath, an age-old therapy including salts, minerals, oil and water. “Our soaks include a specialized blend of Mediterranean Sea salt, Epsom salt, Dead Sea salt and Pink Himalayan salts. In addition to salts, other vitamins, minerals and essential oils are added to provide benefits

targeting each client’s needs,” said Hardin. “Sea salt baths can support skin health, muscle and joint relaxation, mineral absorption, healthy sleep, stress reduction and more.” The spa’s therapeutic mineral bath soaks are specially formulated. “Whether you’ve chosen to melt away stress, ease sore muscles, detox internal organs or help with fine lines and wrinkles and soften skin, you’ll find yourself loving every minute in our private soak room,” Hardin shared. Read more about The Corner Soak and Spa and its products and services at www.thecornersoakandspa.com. Soaks can also be purchased and enjoyed at home.

Soaks can also be purchased and enjoyed at home.

JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / C UL L M A N

Organizational Health Matters Prioritize your team's well-being to foster a healthier and more productive workplace. Schedule a workshop with Lloyd Consulting Firm today. lcf-llc.com | 256-330-6958 32

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JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / C UL L M A N

BOWL FULL of goodness

Hele Bowls is located 410 Second Ave. SE, next to 412 Public House. Check it out at www.helebowls.com.

HAVE YOU TRIED HELE BOWLS? ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HELE BOWLS

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

"Each bowl is thoughtfully crafted to provide the fuel your body needs to thrive."

"The BBB" bowl

Healthy eating is a top priority for many as a new year begins. Cullman has lots of great restaurants, but one that focuses on health and wellness is Hele Bowls. “Hele Bowls’ approach to healthy eating focuses on creating bowls rich in essential proteins, fresh fruits and vibrant vegetables,” said Owner and Manager Sarah Morrow. “We also cater to various dietary needs by offering lowor no-carb options, ensuring each bowl is thoughtfully crafted to provide the fuel your body needs to thrive.” No matter your dietary needs, you can build a bowl to match. “Since every bowl is 100% customizable — after all, it’s your bowl — you can easily tailor it to your goals,” Morrow shared. “Swap your base for nutrient-packed options like quinoa, brown rice, cauliflower rice, romaine or a mix of spinach and kale to give your body the extra boost it needs. Hele Bowls seamlessly fits into a healthy lifestyle by being completely sugar-free and adaptable to any diet. Whether you’re following carnivore, keto, Whole30 or vegan, we have options to suit everyone’s needs.” Morrow’s note to Hele Bowls first-timers navigating her menu: remember that every bowl can be built from scratch. “We pride ourselves on being 100% gluten-free, sugar-free and dairy-free, with plenty of vegan options to choose from,” she said. “No event is too big or too small for us to cater, and we make it our mission to ensure everyone leaves with a smile. At Hele, our goal is to show the people of Cullman that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor.”

JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / C UL L M A N

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smart

SWEETS The beginning of the year is packed with inspiration and motivation to get back on track after a sweet-filled holiday season. It can feel extreme, and it also can be depleting to cut oneself off from everything indulgent after weeks of eating favorite sweet and savory recipes. For sugar lovers who believe going cold-turkey feels intimidating or overwhelming, nutrition-packed desserts are a great way to stick to healthy food goals without the guilt.

Nutrient-Rich Dessert To The Rescue ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN

EAT R IGH T | FO O D + BEVE RAGE

1. Cut a banana into 8-10 small slices, around 1/2 inch each. 2. Spread 1/2 tablespoon of peanut butter (or your choice of nut butter) on each banana slice. 3. Drizzle a small amount of melted chocolate chips or caramel over each bite. 4. Freeze for 15-20 minutes and enjoy! Pro tip: A dash of sea salt flakes on top of these can be *chef’s kiss.* These are great to keep on hand in the freezer all weeklong. Once they set, add them to a closed container to keep the bananas from browning.

Late night snack cravings are real! When finding yourself rooting through the cabinets for a sweet fix, these protein cookie dough bites are a great way to curb temptation. This recipe yields around 20 small bites, which can be cut into small squares or rolled into dough balls. Each bite is around 105 calories. If you find the dough is a little too dry, add a dash of milk as needed. Ingredients • 1/4 cup milk • 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder • 1/4 cup maple syrup • 1/4 cup peanut butter (or alternate nut or sunflower butter) • 1 cup almond flour • 1 teaspoon vanilla • Chocolate chips as desired Pro tip: Use mini chocolate chips and for a dash of savory add sea salt flakes on top. Once combined, store the bites in the refrigerator in a covered container to keep them moist.

Protein COOKIE DOUGH Bites

Frozen PEANUT BUTTER Bites

Danger ahead: this snack is amazing. It’s the easiest of the bunch and also satisfies a sweet tooth craving. This can be whipped together in just 5 minutes and makes just a small amount. Feel free to take creative liberty here with your amounts, but if you make it to this recipe, they are around 90 calories per bite.

JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / C UL L M A N

LOCAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS OPTIONS Everything you need is right here at home

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

Health and wellness are important to a happy life and longevity. Regular doctor’s visits, advanced skincare, spa treatments, frequent exercise and plastic surgery options can all contribute to overall health and well-being in different ways - from physical to psychological. Regular doctor’s visits help with early detection of health issues like high blood pressure or diabetes, provide preventive care and help manage chronic conditions, ensuring long-term health. Skincare protects the skin by moisturizing, preventing damage from UV rays and addressing issues like acne and aging. A proper skincare routine can improve appearance and boost self-confidence, contributing to mental well-being. Spas promote relaxation and stress relief through treatments like massages, saunas and soaks, which improve circulation, detoxify the body and reduce muscle tension. They also provide a mental break, enhancing mood and overall mental health. Exercise improves cardiovascular health, builds strength and increases flexibility. It reduces the risk of chronic diseases, boosts energy and enhances sleep. Exercise also releases endorphins, which improve mood and reduce stress. Plastic surgery can enhance physical appearance, but beyond cosmetic benefits, plastic surgery can improve self-esteem, body image and confidence, leading to positive psychological outcomes. For some, it can also address physical health issues, such as reconstructive surgery after injury or medical treatment. Together, these practices provide a holistic approach to health and wellness, supporting both physical and mental well-being. By combining preventative care, self-care, exercise, and, when needed, cosmetic enhancements, you can achieve a more balanced and confident life. The good news is that providers of all these services are located in Cullman. There’s no need to drive an hour or more to get the care you need. Flip through the pages of this issue, and you’ll find wonderful examples of the options available to you right here at home!

Regular doctor’s visits, skincare, spa treatments, exercise and plastic surgery all promote physical and mental well-being. They enhance health, reduce stress, improve appearance, boost confidence and help manage chronic conditions. Together, these practices offer a holistic approach to achieving a balanced, healthy and confident lifestyle. 42

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | HE ALT H + WE LLN E SS

The good news is that providers of all these services are located in Cullman.

E S C AP E T HE C IT Y.

e . k l a e t h c e a Embr

@TRIDENTMARINA TRIDENTMARINAS.COM

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