Issuu

HEALTH & WELLNESS: Embracing health together JA N UA RY 2 02 6

Building Materials

Building Installation

www.SummertownMetals.com Let’s Get Social

Custom Design

(205) 590-1521

@SummertownMetals

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Happy New Year, Cullman! There’s something about January that feels like a deep breath — a pause, a reset and a gentle reminder that we’re allowed to begin again. After the magic and whirlwind of the holidays, I love the stillness that settles over our community. It’s a time when we naturally look inward, refocus and choose what matters most. Our Health & Wellness issue is always one of my favorites because it reflects exactly what makes Cullman special: the way we care for one another. From our healthcare providers and wellness experts to our local gyms, small businesses and neighbors who inspire us daily — this issue celebrates the people who help us live fuller, healthier, more intentional lives. You’ll find stories that encourage movement, mindfulness, rest and balance. We highlight the importance of community care, showcase local professionals who go above and beyond and share fresh ways to step into the new year feeling supported and inspired. Whether your goal is to strengthen your body, heal your heart, simplify your routines or simply breathe deeper — we hope these pages meet you right where you are. My wish for you in 2026: More peace. More strength. More joy. More moments that remind you why Cullman will always feel like home. Cheers to a new year and a healthier, happier you! Thank you, as always, for letting us be a small part of your life and your story. With gratitude,

January 2026 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 C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Martha Needham, Rustic Soul Photography, Joelle Brooks (cover photo), Alivia Shaw

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

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

Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/CULLMAN

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

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 6 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

18 24

Featured

18 24

Stronger, more confident you Come meet the amazing person you already are!

A healthier, stronger community

Hawkins Medical & Wellness takes a whole-body approach to healthcare

Make time for self-care

Just breathe

Self-care plays a crucial role in achieving and maintaining overall health and wellness goals

Step into the new year with a therapeutic massage

30 On the Cover

Departments

Dr. Jeremy Hawkins and Jacy Hawkins, RN, owners of Cullman’s trusted Hawkins Medical & Wellness, embrace health together and are redefining wellness in our community. They offer knowledgeable and compassionate care.

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Healthy Lifestyle FITNESS

Local Limelight HEALTH + WELLNESS

Self Care HEALTH + WELLNESS

Inspired By HEALTH + WELLNESS

Photography: Joelle Brooks

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

256-735-2121

www.traditionsal.com

JANUARY 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

JAY BETTS

BLOOM WINERY

5 CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

TAMI RAWLS, REVIVE MASSAGE THERAPY

JAY BETTS

1: Eric Cornelius and Bella Tripp at Bloom Winery's 1-year celebration! Congratulations! 2: Christkindlmarkt Parade sponsor Cullman Savings Bank led the parade to the Christmas tree lighting. 3: Kathy Sims with her two favorite four-legged friends, Pippa and Baj, at Bloom Winery 4: Tami Rawls and her husband, who was a table host at Designer Bag Bingo 5: Cullman is beautiful, especially during Christkindlmarkt! 6: Cullman Christkindlmarkt has the largest German Christmas pyramid in the U.S. 7: Jay, this photo is absolutely breathtaking! Cullman is all aglow.

C I T Y SC E N E

Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ C U L L M A N _ C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E _

MEGAN BARBEE - PREMIER PLUMBING

TAMI RAWLS - REVIVE MASSAGE THERAPY

TRACI JOHNSON - CHECKLIST CONCIERGE

8: A fun group of ladies at Designer Bag Bingo. We hope you all won! 9: Another fun group of ladies at Designer Bag Bingo 10: Lynsey Todd, Traci Johnson and Beth Veigl at a Monograms Plus event

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

JANUARY 2026

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Cullman Florist Celebrating 60 years in 2026, Cullman Florist continues their legacy as one of our community’s most trusted floral experts. Known for stunning arrangements, exceptional service and a true passion for beauty, they create florals for every occasion — from celebrations to the everyday moments that matter most. Family-owned and dedicated to quality, Cullman Florist remains a beloved Cullman tradition. Order today at CullmanFlorist.com or 256-734-4611.

Scan to read more

Cullman Vacation Rentals Owned by the Veigl family, CullmanVacationRentals.com offers a selection of charming, well-kept homes throughout Cullman and on beautiful Smith Lake. Each rental is thoughtfully prepared to provide comfort, convenience and the perfect setting for family trips, weekend getaways or extended stays. Guests enjoy clean spaces, easy booking and genuine Southern hospitality that make every visit memorable. Reserve today at CullmanVacationRentals.com or 256-345-6204.

Scan to read more

Reliable Fireplace & Patio Reliable Fireplace & Patio is expanding its showroom with an exciting display of live-burn fireplace inserts and gas log displays — creating a truly elevated shopping experience for homeowners and contractors designing indoor or outdoor living spaces. It proudly carries trusted brands such as American Fyre Designs, AOG, Broilmaster, Fire Magic, Primo, RealFyre, True Flame, Valor and White Mountain Hearth, along with a full selection of premium BBQ grills and accessories. Known for expertise and exceptional service, Reliable is your go-to source for comfort, style and quality. Call 256-747-2343 or visit ReliableFireplaceandPatio.com to schedule a showroom appointment or custom design. Grand opening March 27-28!

Scan to read more

Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / C U L L M A N

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Leading & Living Well

P A R T O F T H E W O M E N W H O L E A D W E L L™ S E R I E S

New Workshop Series This January For the woman who leads at work, at home, and everywhere in between.

Join us in-person or virtually. Real Conversations. Real Growth. Real Leadership. Learn more:

www.lloydconsultingfirm.com Limited in-person seats available. Hosted by:

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

Stronger, more confident you Come meet the amazing person you already are!

New Year, same you? If motivation didn’t magically show up for you on Jan. 2, you’re not alone. Keep reading. If you’ve ever seen the comedy “Dodgeball,” you might remember the over-the-top gym called “Globo Gym.” Ben Stiller’s character is extreme, pushy and obsessed with perfection. It’s funny in the movie, but many people feel like real gyms aren’t that different. They can seem judgmental or built on the idea that the “old you” is bad and the “new you” is the only acceptable version. That mindset makes working out feel intimidating and discouraging. It also leads to short-term fixes — 21-day plans, six-week challenges and programs that promise big results fast. Most people end up right back where they started, only more frustrated. The truth is, you are always you. Real change comes from habits, community and support — not pressure. That’s exactly why Elevate Cullman feels so refreshing. Elevate is the original boutique fitness studio in the heart of downtown Cullman. It opened in 2017 with one clear mission: to create a welcoming space where women can move, breathe and build strength — both mentally and physically. It even has a unique reward structure for consistent class attendance, and gifts these special people with a finisher necklace.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELEVATE CULLMAN

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | FIT N E SS

The studio was started by Rachel Eidson, a local lawyer, mom and longtime fan of barre, yoga and cardio classes. She began her fitness journey in 2010 while teaching for a barre franchise in Huntsville. She loved the movement and the impact it had on women, but she wanted to bring more hospitality and heart into the experience — things that didn’t fit well in a big corporate structure. When she moved to Cullman in 2016, she saw a need for a warm, encouraging space where women could work out without feeling judged or compared. And so, Elevate was born. Elevate doesn’t feel like a traditional gym. It’s more like a friendly girls’ club where you show up to move your body and connect with people who get you. Some women pop in at 5:30 a.m. with a smile. Others roll in after hitting snooze three times. Either way, you’re greeted by name, encouraged and reminded that showing up — however you show up — is already a win.

Elevate Cullman is located at 220 First Ave. SE in downtown Cullman.

The staff and clients call themselves “Lovelies,” and the name truly fits. It’s common to find groups grabbing coffee before or after class, celebrating milestones or checking in on each other during tough weeks. The community feels real and supportive. One of the sweetest traditions is watching moms attend classes throughout pregnancy and then bring their babies with them during recovery. As longtime client D.G., who has taken more than 1,000 classes, says, “We all get to feel like we’re part of the journey.”

Rachel Eidson

The class schedule has something for everyone — barre, boxing-inspired cardio, yoga and more. Each class serves a purpose. Piloxing barre gives you a fun mix of Pilates core work and energizing boxing intervals. Elevate Barre, the studio’s most widely offered class, blends yoga alignment, ballet strength training and Pilates control for a powerful full-body workout. Yoga classes help stretch and restore your muscles, creating balance between building strength and staying flexible. One of the first things you do when you walk into the studio is kick off your shoes. It signals to your brain and body that this is a space to slow down, breathe and focus. The colorful “sticky socks” everyone wears add a bit of fun and help keep you steady during class. Equipment stays simple because, as the teachers like to say, “Your body is the machine.” CONTINUED >

The class schedule has something for everyone — barre, boxing-inspired cardio, yoga and more.

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

These wonderful ladies have made 12 classes a month for an entire year!

The teachers give hands-on, thoughtful guidance, offering small adjustments that help you feel each exercise more clearly. They are trained not only in movement, but also in how to encourage and support people of all experience levels. The result is a space that feels safe, welcoming and surprisingly fun — even for people who normally don’t love the gym. Elevate Cullman isn’t about becoming a “new you.” It’s about becoming a stronger, more confident version of the amazing person you already are. If traditional gyms have left you feeling out of place, Elevate might just be the change your mind and body have been waiting for. Elevate Cullman is located at 220 First Ave. SE in downtown Cullman. Find it online at elevatecullman. com (where you can explore monthly class schedules, pricing and more details — and get to know the instructors ), facebook.com/elevatecullman and instagram.com/elevatecullman.

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | FIT N E SS

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

Dr. Jeremy Hawkins treats a patient.

H aw kins Medic al & Wellne s s t akes a w h ole-body appr oa ch to h ealth ca re

A HEALTHIER, STRONGER COMMUNITY ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOELLE BROOKS AND ALIVIA SHAW Dr. Jeremy Hawkins and Jacy Hawkins, RN, have become an integral part of the healthcare community in Cullman. The husband-and-wife team own and operate Hawkins Medical & Wellness, as well as Hawkins Medi Spa, located in the newly renovated Klein Building downtown.

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HEALT H + WE LLN E SS

They describe Hawkins Medical & Wellness as being part of “a new era of local healthcare is taking shape — one built on compassion, innovation and a whole-body approach to wellness,” and their mission as “ simple yet powerful: to inspire, empower and elevate health for every person who walks through the doors.” “At Hawkins Medical & Wellness, our philosophy is simple: total wellness requires a wholebody approach,” said Jacy Hawkins. “We combine traditional primary care with functional medicine, infusion therapy and aesthetics because each area supports the others. “When patients visit us, they aren’t just getting a checkup or a facial — they’re receiving coordinated care from a doctor-and-nurse team who understands how hormones, nutrition, lifestyle and confidence all connect. By integrating medical screenings with targeted infusions, personalized wellness plans and advanced aesthetic treatments, we help patients feel better from the inside out. Our goal is to support long-term health, increase energy and immunity, boost physical confidence and, ultimately, cultivate a healthier, stronger community.” Weight management and infusion therapies are extremely popular right now, and Hawkins Medical & Wellness offers both. “What sets our programs apart is that everything is custom-built for each patient. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all weight loss or generic infusion menus,” said Hawkins. “Every patient receives a full medical evaluation, lab testing when appropriate and a personalized plan created directly by Dr. Hawkins. Our approach blends evidence-based medical care with functional wellness strategies — meaning we address hormones, metabolism, micronutrients, gut health, stress, lifestyle barriers and accountability.” She continued, “We also closely follow patients, reassessing and adjusting their plans as their bodies change. For infusion therapy, we use medical-grade ingredients, precise dosing and individualized protocols. Whether someone needs immune support, hydration, energy or recovery, we tailor each infusion to their goals. Patients aren’t just getting a service — they’re getting a medically supervised journey.” Undergoing any treatment can make someone anxious, especially if it’s a completely new experience. Hawkins said they take the time to help patients feel comfortable and confident when trying new treatments, whether for health, wellness or aesthetics. “Our job is to educate, empower and guide — not pressure,” she said. “We take time to thoroughly

Haley Drinkard, AGACNP, consults a patient.

“Our philosophy is simple: total wellness requires a whole-body approach. We combine traditional primary care with functional medicine, infusion therapy and aesthetics.” Jacy Hawkins, RN, prepares an IV treatment.

CONTINUED >

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

"We want every patient to leave feeling healthier, more confident and empowered with clear steps toward their goals...We want the experience to be personal, uplifting and transformative.”

Dr. Jeremy Hawkins and Jacy Hawkins, RN

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HEALT H + WE LLN E SS

explain every treatment, including what it does, how it works, realistic expectations and the results you can expect. Patients always meet directly with Dr. Hawkins or Haley, our nurse practitioner, whom Dr. Hawkins has trained and guided, and we approach each conversation with honesty and compassion. “We’ve created a space where patients feel heard, supported and respected. Whether someone is starting weight-loss injections, having their first infusion, establishing primary care or exploring aesthetics like neurotoxins or HydraFacial, they’re never alone in the process. We walk with them every step of the way, making sure they feel confident and safe.” When someone walks out of Hawkins Medical & Wellness, Hawkins said that more than anything, the hope is they feel seen valued and genuinely cared for. “We want every patient to leave feeling healthier, more confident and empowered with clear steps toward their goals,” she said. “Our aim is for people to walk out not just with results, but also with a renewed sense of control over their health and a more profound belief in what their bodies are capable of. We want the experience to be personal, uplifting and transformative.” Hawkins also shared a bit about her own wellness and fitness journey. She teaches Pilates (and takes classes) at Fit Society in Cullman. “Pilates at Fit Society – Cullman has become a core part of my own wellness and fitness journey. Teaching and taking classes there has strengthened me both mentally and physically, helping me stay grounded, focused and connected to my body,” she shared. “It’s a space that truly supports mind–body health, and I love being part of a community that prioritizes strength, balance and overall well-being.” Fit Society offers a full range of Reformer Pilates classes, which blend resistance, controlled movement and mindful alignment. These classes are designed to build long, lean muscle, improve posture, increase core strength and support joint health, according to Hawkins.

“Reformer Pilates is low-impact but incredibly effective — perfect for anyone wanting to improve strength safely, recover from injury or elevate their fitness routine with purposeful movement,” she said. “For me, Pilates has been transformative. It’s more than a workout — it’s a commitment to long-term health, resilience and confidence. Every class offers an opportunity to reset, challenge yourself and walk out feeling mentally clearer and physically stronger.” Hawkins Medical & Wellness offers a range of services, including comprehensive health services (screenings, acute care, family planning, DOT physicals and more); Intravenous nutrient therapy (high doses of vitamins and minerals for a quick immune boost or to address acute and chronic issues; customized IV infusions, including Glutathione, Vitamin C, B Complex, Magnesium and other essential nutrients); weight management solutions (including Semaglutide, which promotes weight loss and helps maintain it by decreasing appetite, and Lipoprotein injections, which support fat removal through the liver, ensuring excess fat is burned for energy instead of being stored); and Dysport for smoothing wrinkles, Jeuveau for reducing dynamic frown lines and Galderma’s Restylane fillers to restore facial volume (Hawkins said these treatments provide natural-looking, long-lasting results with minimal downtime). And also check out Hawkins Medi Spa, which offers Hydrafacial, ZO Skin Health facials, ZO Skin Health products, red light therapy and SkinStylus Microneedling, other facial treatments, a sauna and salt room. Hawkins said exciting new services are coming soon, including massage and esthetics. You can find Hawkins Medical & Wellness in the Klein Building in downtown Cullman at 421 Third Ave. SE Suite 250. Hawkins Medi Spa is located in Suite 145. Find them on Facebook at Facebook/Hawkins Medical and Wellness. Get more information at www.hawkinsmed.com and www.fitsocietyllc.com.

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

GET INSPIRED EAT & DRINK SHOP LOCAL YO U R D I G I TA L D E S T I N AT I O N F O R LO C A L L I V I N G

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

In The Cottage, you can relax with your partner and enjoy special couple's packages.

MAKE TIME FOR SELF-C A R E ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE CORNER SOAK AND SPA

S ELF CA R E | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

SELF-CARE PLAYS A CRUCIAL ROLE IN ACHIEVING AND MAINTAINING OVERALL HEALTH AND WELLNESS GOALS

Heading into 2026, many people have most likely made resolutions or set goals to get healthy, whether it be improving diet, being more active or losing weight. Cullman is blessed to have many local health and wellness resources. We talked to Molly Hardin, owner of The Corner Soak and Spa, and asked, as we head into a new year, what are some realistic wellness goals you believe people should consider? “Slow down,” she answered. “We’ve become so accustomed to filling every minute of our day that we leave little room for rest or reflection. When our schedules overflow, the first things we sacrifice are often the most important — our personal well-being, our relationships and quality time with our children. She continued, “A realistic wellness goal for the new year is to create space. Say no to the unnecessary so you can say yes to what truly matters. Prioritize your health, nurture your marriage and be fully present with your family. True wellness isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing what matters most, with intention and balance.” Hardin said self-care plays a crucial role in achieving and maintaining overall health and wellness goals. “It’s the foundation that supports physical, mental and emotional balance. Regular self-care habits like getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly help maintain energy levels and reduce the risk of illness,” she explained. “Taking time for self-care activities helps reduce stress and prevent burnout. It also reinforces positive self-worth. When you treat yourself with compassion and respect, you’re more motivated to maintain healthy behaviors long-term instead of pursuing short-term fixes. When your body and mind are cared for, you can focus better and make more mindful decisions, both of which are essential for staying on track with wellness goals.” CONTINUED >

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

We also asked Hardin her advice about treatments for people who have specific goals, like reducing stress or improving sleep. “That’s a great question — and one that fits perfectly with the mission of our spa. For guests whose primary goals are reducing stress or improving sleep, the focus should be on treatments that calm the nervous system, ease muscle tension and promote deep relaxation. We have packages where we can combine many of these treatments to give you a full day focused on relaxation and stress reduction.” Hardin recommended the following: “Swedish Massage: Why it works: Long, gentle strokes help lower cortisol levels and increase serotonin and dopamine — natural mood stabilizers. “Hot Stone Massage: Why it works: The warmth of the stones relaxes tight muscles and improves circulation, which helps the body release tension more deeply. “Infrared Sauna: Why it works: Raising the body temperature and then cooling down naturally promotes melatonin release — helping the body prepare for sleep. “Magnesium-Infused Sweet Escape Mineral Bath Soaks: Why it works: All the ingredients in our Sweet Escape soak are known to relax muscles and calm the nervous system, making them perfect for tension and insomnia relief. “Getting a facial at our spa does much more than just improve the skin. It activates the body’s relaxation response. It relieves physical tension. It encourages mindfulness and stillness and boosts regulating hormones. A facial is far more than skincare — it’s whole-body care. It calms the mind, relaxes the body and helps you drift into a deeper, more peaceful night’s sleep.” How about if someone’s goal is more aesthetic. For example, they want to restore their skin or rejuvenate after childbirth? “For someone who is looking to restore their skin we would recommend booking a consultation with one of our skin experts to get started with a home regimen. Then take the journey of more restorative treatments like IPL laser and microneedling to help correct and prevent,” said Hardin. “For those looking to rejuvenate after children, EmpowerRF is life changing. It is a new approach to pelvic floor therapy and can enhance and tighten damaged tissue.” The Corner Soak and Spa offers a variety of restorative experiences perfect for those kicking off a year full of health and wellness goals. “We offer massage therapy, customized facials, mineral bath soaks and sauna in bundles,” Hardin said. “Regular self-care isn’t a luxury — it’s a healthy routine. Receiving a massage and facial each month helps maintain balance in both body and mind, while monthly sauna sessions and mineral soaks support the body’s natural detoxification process. These practices work together to help you feel refreshed, renewed and ready to perform at your best.” The Corner Soak and Spa is located at 501 Third St. SW in Cullman. Find it online at thecornersoakandspa.com.

S ELF CA R E | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

EmpowerRF is a new approach to pelvic floor therapy.

The Infrared Sauna works by raising your body temperature and then cooling you down naturally, promoting melatonin release — helping the body prepare for sleep.

All the ingredients in the Sweet Escape soak are known to relax muscles and calm the nervous system, making them perfect for tension and insomnia relief.

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

ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARTHA NEEDHAM, RUSTIC SOUL PHOTOGRAPHY

Check out Revive Massage Therapy at 1018 Alabama Highway 69 N in Cullman.

Step into the new year with a therapeutic massage

JUST BREATHE

New year, new you! A great way to reset is therapeutic massage. We talked to Tami Rawls, owner of Revive Massage Therapy, about what to expect as a first-timer.

FOR SOMEONE WALKING INTO REVIVE FOR THE FIRST TIME, WHAT KIND OF ATMOSPHERE DO YOU WANT THEM TO FEEL RIGHT AWAY?

We want you to feel an immediate sense of peace and calm – from the soothing sounds and clean environment, to the warm greeting. Our space is welcoming and designed to help you breathe a little deeper.

WHAT ARE SOME COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS FIRSTTIME CLIENTS HAVE ABOUT MASSAGE THERAPY, AND HOW DO YOU HELP PUT THEM AT EASE?

The most common misconception might be that massage is painful. Therapeutic massage doesn’t have to be excruciating – an ideal therapeutic/deep tissue massage should be comfortable enough for you to breathe easy, but also slightly uncomfortable in a “hurts so good” kind of way. Communication is key if pressure is not where you want it to be. I NSP IR E D BY | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

Also, undress to your comfort level. Professional draping keeps you covered the entire time. Some people choose to leave on underwear while others choose to completely undress. Either way, you’re modestly draped and never exposed. To talk or not to talk…your session is your time. You can talk if you want or rest if you choose.

we can give you the best treatment. We want to know things like, “How does your body treat you on a daily basis?” We try to figure out things you do daily that could be causing pain/discomfort.

WHAT DOES THE INITIAL CONSULTATION LOOK LIKE, AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR TAILORING A SESSION?

We use the initial consultation to decide what’s best. If you’ve had a massage before, tell us what you like/dislike. If you haven’t, we’ll explain techniques and tools…deep tissue, Swedish relaxation, hot stones, cupping and more. Once we’re in session, we see with our hands and adjust accordingly…how your tissue feels – tight and tense, inflamed or relaxed and pliable – how your body responds to touch and pressure…we use this as our guide.

When you arrive, you’ll fill out a brief intake form that includes general info, areas of pain/ discomfort, medical history and medications. We follow up with an “interview” to learn more about your preferences to tailor your session. This moves quickly, but it’s also in-depth so

HOW DO THERAPISTS DETERMINE WHICH TECHNIQUES TO USE FOR EACH CLIENT — ESPECIALLY IF THE CLIENT ISN’T SURE WHAT THEY NEED?

CONTINUED >

Left to right are Sara Jackson, Jennifer Heinl, Tami Rawls, Alicia Powe and Kaziar Rivera.

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

PEOPLE OFTEN WORRY ABOUT PRESSURE — TOO MUCH, TOO LITTLE, NOT WANTING TO “SPEAK UP.” HOW DO YOU HELP CLIENTS FIND THE RIGHT PRESSURE DURING THEIR SESSION?

One of our most common ways is a pressure scale. On a scale of 1-10, we want our pressure to be at/around 7. Seven is Heaven. This is ideal for you to experience deep relaxation and also

“WE WANT YOU TO FEEL AN IMMEDIATE SENSE OF PEACE AND CALM – FROM THE SOOTHING SOUNDS AND CLEAN ENVIRONMENT, TO THE WARM GREETING. OUR SPACE IS WELCOMING AND DESIGNED TO HELP YOU BREATHE A LITTLE DEEPER.”

get the kinks worked out without having to hold your breath. If we get to an area that’s more tender or painful, and that number jumps up to 8 or 9, let us know so we can adjust. You can communicate that by telling us the number on the scale…for instance, just stating “9” will make us lighten up. I like to use humor sometimes to help you feel more comfortable: “Kick me or yell mercy and I’ll get the idea.”

WHAT’S YOUR BEST ADVICE FOR SOMEONE WHO FEELS ANXIOUS OR UNSURE BEFORE THEIR FIRST APPOINTMENT?

Breathe. We’ll guide you through all you need to know before your session so you can relax and enjoy. Ask the questions. Nothing is weird or embarrassing – whether clothing, draping, talking or what to expect. It’s totally normal to feel nervous before your first massage. We’re here to help you feel safe and comfortable.

Contact Revive at Facebook/ Revive Massage Therapy LLC.

I NSP IR E D BY | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

The Something Blue Shoppe

Bridal Show at The venue at Cotton Creek

March 1, 2026 | 2pm-5pm

Join us for an unforgettable Bridal Show experience featuring a live fashion show, top local wedding vendors, fabulous door prizes & giveaways, exclusive discounted booking offers, drinks, and so much more!

Scan here to purchase tickets!