Issuu

Balancing Your Health & Wellness JA N UA RY 2 02 6

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Welcoming the New Year With Balance & Purpose

January 2026 PUBLISHER

Janet Viane | janet.viane@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Nicole Swanberg Wright nicole.swanbergwright@citylifestyle.com

We are thrilled to start the new year by adding to our Lincolnway City Lifestyle family! First, please welcome our newest Partners: Voorn, Jaworski, & Preston, PLLC of New Lenox, Kathy Miller & Roger Kruel - State Farm Insurance Agents of New Lenox and Star Speech and Myo Therapy of Frankfort. Also, joining our staff this month as Publisher Assistant is Kenadee Berry of New Lenox! Welcome all! The start of a new year is filled with excitement and a sense of renewal. It’s a time to set new goals, embrace fresh opportunities, and dream about the year ahead. For many, though, January can also bring a sense of pressure—a reminder of resolutions left unfulfilled or the weight of expectations. This issue of Lincolnway City Lifestyle was crafted with the goal of offering something different: inspiration for long-term, sustainable improvements in physical, emotional, and mental health. It's a balancing act! This month's cover was specifically chosen to remind you of the balance required to live to the fullest. Riding a unicycle (living life) like our cover cyclist Alex Gorsuch, of New Lenox, isn’t an easy task. Riding through rough terrain (everyday challenges) is even harder. We want to help bring the idea of balance so you can make it over the bumps that may be ahead. Life isn’t about perfection; it’s about consistency. Whether it’s in business, health, or relationships, it’s not what you do occasionally that makes the difference—it’s what you do most of the time. Consider this: you wouldn’t go on vacation every day, but planning a couple of trips each year is a realistic and restorative goal. Similarly, indulging in a rich dessert isn’t an everyday event, but it’s a delicious treat now and then. This year, focus on small, consistent actions that lead to a more balanced and fulfilling life. Join a fitness class, carve out moments for rest, and don’t forget to savor life’s pleasures. It’s the “most of the time” choices that shape our lives. Here’s to a healthy, happy and safe new year—we’re rooting for you! All the best,

JANET VIANE, PUBLISHER @ L I N C O L N WAY _ C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

P U B L I S H E R AS S I STAN T

Kenadee Berry | kenadee.berry@citylifestyle.com C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R

Jean Lachat

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

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

Visit our Instagram C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / L I N C O L N W AY

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 Lincolnway City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Relax. Refresh. Repeat. A custom pool is more than luxury—it’s your ticket to better health and well-being. Swimming is a full-body workout that strengthens muscles, improves cardiovascular fitness, and enhances flexibility, all while being gentle on the joints. Whether it’s an early morning swim, a midday stretch, or an evening unwind with the family, your backyard becomes a personal oasis where health, happiness, and home life seamlessly come together.

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

22 12

Featured

22 26 6

A Balancing Act

Finding steadiness, strength, and intention as we roll into a new year.

Understanding Sensory Integration: How Kids Can Do Supports Children and Families

Fit For Life

How Body Tech Total Fitness Supports Long-Term Health and Well-Being

On the Cover

Departments

Alex Gorsuch, resident of New Lenox, rides his unicycle across a multitude of terrains, in any weather!

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Local Limelight HEALTH + WELLNESS

How To HEALTH + WELLNESS

Kids Corner HEALTH + WELLNESS

Must See HEALTH + WELLNESS

Expert Help HEALTH + WELLNESS

Events

Care Services

at Right Choice Home Care We provide flexible, personalized services that assist with daily living, support recovery, and bring peace of mind to families across Chicago and surrounding GEO areas. Whether it’s short-term help after surgery, long-term care for dementia, or companionship to reduce loneliness, our caregivers are here to make independent living at home possible.

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SCAN ME with

SHARON C. NEWMAN

JANUARY 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

LINCOLN-WAY COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT

FRANKFORT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ILLINOIS PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

RANDI LYNN QUIGLEY

BALLET 5:8

PROVIDENCE CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

1: Mike Mitchell of Mitchell Construction named Volunteer of the Year at Frankfort Chamber Annual Dinner. 2: Our students and staff recently donated thousands of pounds of food to local food pantries. 3: Randi Lynn Quigley recently visited the 10x Headquarters in Miami and spoke on stage! 4: Maestro Kirov visited Homewood-Flossmoor High School to rehearse with their talented students! 5: Ballet 5:8’s “Beyond the Nutcracker” featured on Good Morning America during MagMile Lights Fest parade. 6: Varsity football had an incredible season, finishing 2nd at the IHSA 5A State Championship!

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 @ L I N C O L N W AY _ C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

C I T Y SC E N E

CHICAGOLAND’S NEW PREMIER MEMORY CARE IS NOW OPEN!

DISCOVER THE NEW CHAPTER IN COMPASSIONATE MEMORY CARE Now open at Marian Village in Homer Glen, the Ancora Memory Care neighborhood is redeﬁning Alzheimer’s and dementia care - restoring hope, happiness and peace of mind to those living with memory loss and the families who support them. By embracing each individual’s unique needs and abilities, Ancora Memory Care ensures residents continue to live with purpose, dignity and security. Ancora Memory Care Neighborhood Features: • Integrated Holistic Approach to Wellness • �Spacious studio apartments • �Inviting living spaces with open kitchen and dining concept • Secure outdoor space • �Expert, compassionate care team

Limited Residences Available. For more information about our full continuum of care, including memory care, or to schedule a personal tour, call 708.734.6348 or email adoherty@franciscancommunities.org 15624 Marian Drive, Homer Glen, IL 60491 708.226.3780 I marianvillage.org

YOUR PLACE TO BELONG, YOUR PLACE TO FLOURISH Marian Village provides a complete continuum of care, allowing residents to live comfortably and enjoy their individual lifestyle as part of a vibrant, connected community where their days are fulﬁlling and lived joyfully.

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

Ancient Roots Acupuncture Unveils New Logo Ancient Roots Acupuncture is excited to unveil their updated logo, a refreshed look that reflects their continued commitment to holistic healing, balance, and client-centered care. This updated design honors their roots while embracing a modern, soothing aesthetic that aligns with the practice’s mission and growth.

Photography by Ancient Roots Acupuncture

New Lenox to Host Indoor Farmers Markets Starting Sunday, January 11, Chicago Street Markets will be hosting bi-weekly indoor farmers markets at the Francis Field Youth Foundation in New Lenox! The market will be held every other Sunday from 9 AM to 1 PM. For more information, visit www.chistreetmarkets.com.

Photography by Chicago Street Market

Ballet 5:8 Executive Director Appointed to Orland Park Arts Commission Ballet 5:8 is excited to announce that Executive Director Jeremy Slager has been appointed to the Orland Park Arts Commission. He has been charged with creating a new walkable arts district. This initiative aims to create a vibrant, connected hub for arts in the Southland.

Photography by Ballet 5:8

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 / L I N C O L N W AY

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

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balance

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JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/LI N C O L N WAY

A B alancing Act

Staying balanced in the new year (literally and figuratively) can feel like a challenge. But for New Lenox resident and unicylist Alex Gorsuch, balance is a daily practice. Alex’s unicycling story began long before he realized it. For his 11th birthday, his maternal grandfather surprised him with his first unicycle—an unexpected gift sparked by a moment of curiosity after Alex saw someone riding one on his way to school. Only later did he learn that unicycling actually ran in the family: several uncles rode when they were younger, and his paternal grandfather once delivered newspapers on a unicycle along his paper route.

ARTICLE BY NICOLE SWANBERG WRIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY ROB MEENDERING AND OWEN FARMER

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

Still, getting started wasn’t easy. “It took me about a year to get the hang of it,” Alex says. Neighbors grew used to the sight of him clinging to his mailbox or fence, wobbling, falling, and trying again as he inched his way from the driveway to the street. For the next decade, unicycling remained more of a quirky hobby than anything serious—a fun party trick, but nothing more defined. Everything changed after college. Settling into life in the suburbs, Alex found himself searching for connection and stumbled into an entirely new world of mountain unicycling, road riding, and niche disciplines he never knew existed. He discovered a riding community at Palos and other local preserves, which eventually led him to the Unicycling Society of America and its national event, the North American Unicycling Championships and Convention (NAUCC). Since attending his first NAUCC in 2021, he hasn’t missed a year—traveling to Madison, Cleveland, Minneapolis, and Rochester Hills. Along the way, he’s also tackled mountain unicycling weekends in northern Alabama, Copper Harbor in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and Moab, Utah. But while those trips were energizing, most of his day-to-day riding still happened alone. Wanting to recreate the camaraderie he felt at larger gatherings, Alex founded the Chicagoland Unicycle Club, organizing group rides and coordinating the club’s annual appearance in the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade. The pandemic became a turning point. With remote work eliminating his commute, Alex suddenly had “bonus hours” in his day that he funneled into riding. He hit the trails at Old Plank Road and Hickory Creek daily, finding solace in nature, easy outdoor socializing, and the rhythm of the ride. The new routine brought mental clarity, friendships across the country, and even

a 30-pound weight loss that first year. “My daily rides became my meditation,” he says. Today, as a new father, Alex is navigating a different kind of balance. He’s not riding every day, but unicycling remains a grounding force—one fully supported by his partner, who shares his belief in making space for the activities that recharge them. Looking back, Alex says unicycling has given him far more than a skill: it’s given him community, resilience, presence, and a constant reminder to slow down and enjoy the journey. Unicycling isn’t just a novelty; it’s a demanding, full-body balance sport that engages the legs, core, and upper body with every movement. And because there’s no such thing as coasting on a unicycle, riders pedal 100% of the time, making it a surprisingly efficient and endurance-building workout. For winter riders like Alex, the difficulty only increases: lower tire pressure, slick surfaces, and hundreds of micro-corrections per minute make cold-weather unicycling one of the sport’s most technical and mentally focused forms. That discipline echoes the way many of us approach January. Each year, 30% to 45% of Americans make at least one New Year’s resolution, yet nearly 23% give up within the first week, and up to 64% quit by the end of the month. It’s no wonder the second Friday in January has become known as “Quitters’ Day.” But finding balance, whether on a unicycle or in daily life, doesn’t have to be so elusive. Inspired by Alex’s commitment and the steady focus required to stay upright on one wheel, Lincolnway City Lifestyle gathered insights from several of our local wellness partners to help you maintain your momentum in 2026. Welcome to our Health & Wellness Q&A: a guide to keeping your balance in the year ahead. CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/LI N C O L N WAY

Raven Fisher, MA, LCPC Owner of Nave Wellness Center Why is mental health just as important as physical health when creating a wellness routine? We take a holistic approach to health and wellbeing. All parts of the human body make up the whole self, including the internal world of the mind. When we focus on physical health alone, we can be eating well, moving the body, and checking all the boxes while still feeling overwhelmed or disconnected. The way we think and feel impacts every part of our daily lives. Internal challenges like stress, burnout, and unprocessed experiences can show up physically – think fatigue, muscle tension, appetite changes, etc. But when we intentionally care for our mental health, we strengthen our capacity to handle whatever life brings. Prioritizing mental health empowers us to build a holistic wellness routine that honors the fullness of our humanity. What’s inspiring you most about the year ahead for Nave Wellness Center? I’m most excited to deepen the ways Nave Wellness Center shows up for our community. We’ve always believed that healing doesn’t just happen in the therapy room – it also happens through connection, shared stories, and spaces where people feel seen and supported. This year, we’re looking forward to hosting more workshops, groups, and community conversations that make mental health education accessible and meaningful. I’m excited about collaborating with local partners, schools, churches, and organizations to bring mental wellness into everyday spaces where people already gather. Most of all, I’m excited to keep building a practice that feels like a resource – a place where people can learn, heal, and feel part of something larger than themselves. How do you help clients find balance between emotional health, relationships, and daily responsibilities? We help clients find balance by honoring their reallife experiences – what they’re carrying, what they’ve survived, and what they hope for. Balance isn’t about perfection; it’s about alignment. We guide clients in slowing down enough to recognize their emotional needs, reconnect with their values, and notice the patterns that keep them overwhelmed or stretched thin. Therapy becomes a space where clients learn to show up for themselves without guilt and show up for others without losing their sense of self.

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

Dr. Scott Sumrall, AuD Owner of Freedom Hearing and Speech How do hearing and communication skills influence a person’s overall sense of wellbeing? Hearing and communication are foundational to how we connect with the world. When someone can hear conversations clearly, participate socially, and communicate confidently, it supports emotional health, reduces stress, and improves relationships. Untreated hearing loss can lead to frustration, withdrawal from activities, reduced cognitive stimulation, and heightened feelings of loneliness or fatigue. Supporting hearing and communication skills helps people stay engaged, independent, and connected, directly improving overall wellbeing and quality of life.

Looking forward to 2026, what are you most looking forward to at Freedom Hearing and Speech? We’re excited to bring Lenire, a groundbreaking non-invasive tinnitus treatment, to our practice. It offers new hope to individuals who have tried traditional methods without success. We’re also expanding into diagnostic balance and vestibular services, an area that audiologist, Scott Sumrall, AuD, is especially passionate about. The office will offer advanced vestibular evaluations, diagnostics, and individualized treatment plans to support patients experiencing balance-related challenges. These additions reflect our dedication to offering cutting-edge, patient-centered hearing and balance care for our community.

Supporting hearing and communication helps people stay engaged, independent, and connected, directly improving overall wellbeing and quality of life. CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/LI N C O L N WAY

Dr. Lauren Mansell, DPT Owner of AcuRehabMed How does specialty physical therapy support whole-person wellness? When people think about physical therapy, they usually think of doing exercises in a gym-like setting after a joint surgery or maybe working with someone after a stroke. That is not the only type of physical therapy. In our specialty clinic, we treat patients individually in a private room addressing issues such as bladder issues, bowel issues, chronic pain, lymphatic dysfunction and issues relating to childbirth, menopause, and cancers (like prostate cancer treatment for men). We are the only type of physical therapy that addresses wellness issues of bowel and bladder health. How does your clinic help patients balance the physical, emotional, and functional aspects of wellness? We teach that human function is a combination of what we do, how we feel and how we think. This can include what we are drinking and eating, the activities they are doing (or not doing but want to do), what we think and feel about our bodies and our social supports or deterrents. What’s inspiring you most about the year ahead for AcuRehabMed? We are teaching the country of Guyana on how to provide pelvic therapy. We are honored to not only be a community resource but to be a leader nationally (and to developing countries) in this important work. Our staff has the highest training possible and whether it’s myself, Allison Sivak, Jess Boblak, or Yulissa Moreno- our patients are literally in the best hands.

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

Dr. Shannon McMahon, DACM Owner of Ancient Roots Acupuncture What’s on the horizon for Ancient Roots in 2026 that excites you most? I’m excited to be expanding my practice to offer massage therapy and welcome a part-time clinic assistant, Adam, who handles a lot of client communication. As for massage therapy, Paul provides Swedish and deep tissue massage, as well as a unique traditional Chinese medicine bodywork called Tui Na. Unlike typical spa-style massage, Tui Na combines acupressure with a structured, rhythmic technique that is more clinical in nature. It’s a distinctive service not widely available in the area, offering patients a truly unique approach to healing and wellness.

How does Traditional Chinese Medicine support balance across mind, body, and spirit? Traditional Chinese Medicine supports mind, body, and spirit by restoring the smooth flow of Qi—the vital energy connecting all aspects of health. Through acupuncture, herbal medicine, tui na, and mindful practices like tai chi or qi gong, TCM harmonizes organ systems that influence physical function and emotional well-being. By calming the spirit, easing stress, improving circulation, and aligning habits with natural rhythms, TCM helps people feel grounded, clear, and resilient, creating a holistic sense of whole-person wellness.

Traditional Chinese Medicine helps people feel grounded, clear, and resilient, creating a holistic sense of whole-person wellness. JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/LI N C O L N WAY

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Snowflakes & Slippers

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www.mystarspeech.com Call 815-931-9595 to schedule an appointment! JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/LI N C O L N WAY

Dive Into

Wellness Pools at home offer more than fun in the sun; they provide a convenient way to boost fitness, relieve stress, and strengthen family connections. Even in the middle of winter, it’s the perfect time to plan your backyard oasis and book a consultation with Aqua Pools so you’re ready when warmer months arrive. “Having a pool at home makes it easy and fun to stay active,” says Emily Plaszewski of Aqua Pools. “Whether it’s swimming laps, doing water aerobics, or just moving more, it promotes regular exercise, reduces stress,

and encourages time outdoors—all of which support a healthier lifestyle.” Swimming also offers unique advantages. “Swimming and water exercise are low-impact, full-body workouts that build strength, improve cardiovascular health, increase flexibility, and reduce joint strain, making them ideal for all ages and fitness levels,” Emily explains. These benefits make pools an excellent wellness tool for families, seniors, or anyone looking to maintain fitness year-round. Pools can also support mental health. “Spending time in or around water can calm the mind, reduce stress, and boost mood,” she says. “The soothing effects of water promote relaxation, improve sleep, and provide a peaceful escape from daily pressures.” Families are weaving these benefits into their routines. “Families use pools to stay active together, whether it’s swimming, playing games, or just unwinding after a long day. It creates quality time, encourages healthy habits, and supports both physical and mental well-being,” the team shares. More homeowners now view pools as an investment in wellness rather than a luxury. “Trends like saltwater systems, lap pools, built-in spas, and resistance jets are popular for health-focused buyers,” Aqua Pools notes. “They offer low-impact exercise, relaxation, and easier maintenance for a healthier lifestyle.” Perhaps the most rewarding part for Aqua Pools is watching families truly enjoy their spaces. “My favorite part is seeing families connect and create joyful moments together around the pool,” Emily says. “Whether it’s kids playing, parents relaxing, or everyone sharing stories, the pool becomes a space for bonding and fun.” Even as snow blanket the ground, Aqua Pools encourages homeowners to start planning now by designing pools that promote physical activity, relaxation, and memorable family moments when the sun returns.

How a Home Pool Can Transform Your Health ARTICLE BY NICOLE SWANBERG WRIGHT

H OW TO | HEALTH + W EL LN E SS

Helping Children Learn, Succeed & Enjoy At Kids Can Do, children receive therapy tailored to their needs. After assessment, our pediatric therapists create a personalized plan. Our fun, purposeful play sessions support meaningful progress, and partnering with families helps children improve faster. • Speech Therapy • Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy and more

Serving Families in the South Suburbs Since 1988 www.kidscando.org | (708) 478-5400 | info@kidscando.org 19100 S. Cresent Dr., Mokena, IL 60448

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/LI N C O L N WAY

Un d e r s t a n d i n g S e n s o r y I n te g ra t i o n : HOW KIDS CAN DO SUPPORTS CHILDREN AND FAMILIES

ARTICLE BY NICOLE SWANBERG WRIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEAN LACHAT

K I D S COR N E R | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

For many families, the first hints that something feels “off” can be hard to describe. A child who avoids certain clothes, melts down during transitions, or seems constantly in motion may not simply be “misbehaving.” At Kids Can Do in Mokena, those moments are often understood through the lens of sensory integration — the process that shapes how children experience and respond to the world around them. “Sensory integration is the brain’s ability to take in sensory information from the body and environment and then process, organize, and interpret that information so that a person can respond appropriately and effectively,” explains Marijo Kleinfelder, occupational therapist, OT department manager, and an owner of Kids Can Do. This includes not only sight and touch, but also vestibular, proprioceptive, and interoceptive systems that guide movement, body awareness, and internal cues such as hunger or fatigue. “Sensory integration is a key component in building the foundation for motor skills, emotional regulation, and interaction with the people and objects in our world,” she adds. Early signs of sensory challenges vary widely, which can leave parents unsure of what they’re seeing. “Truthfully, the list is long and varies from one person to the next,” Marijo says, noting sensitivities to clothing textures, intense meltdowns, limited diets, clumsiness, or strong reactions to sound and touch. Spotting these patterns is often the first step toward understanding a child’s unique sensory needs. At Kids Can Do, the evaluation process is designed to feel supportive. “Initial evaluation typically begins with interviewing the parents prior to the session,” she shares. Play-based activities and standardized testing allow therapists to see how a child processes sensory input in a natural, low-pressure setting.

A core pillar of therapy is helping families reframe behavior through education. “Parent coaching is an integral part of the therapy process,” she says. Caregivers learn to identify sensory signals and respond with proactive strategies, shifting from reacting to meltdowns to anticipating and supporting a child’s needs. Inside the clinic, therapy often looks like play. “Therapy from a sensory integration perspective is very fun,” Marijo notes. Swings, climbing equipment, foam pits, crash pillows, weighted blankets, trampolines, and tactile bins help children explore sensory input in a controlled, engaging way. Both individual rooms and a large therapy gym allow therapists to tailor sessions based on each child’s comfort level and energy needs. Supporting sensory health has benefits that reach far beyond the clinic. “Every child needs sensory input to support their emotional regulation and sense of well-being,” she says, noting its impact on focus, coordination, and social development. “Children need a variety of sensory input every day in the same way we need a balanced diet to meet our nutritional needs.” Home support reinforces progress. Marijo highlights strategies like visual schedules, predictable routines, and tailored activities that help children feel secure even in unexpected situations. For families just beginning their journey, reassurance matters. “We assure them that they are not alone and the struggles they have been feeling are real,” she says. “It is a journey and will have highs and lows, but even the ‘lows’ will be higher and less extreme over time.” Kids Can Do also hosts Ark, a monthly parent support group offering education and encouragement for families navigating sensory processing disorder, that serves as a reminder to families they never have to walk this path alone.

Sensory integration therapy is highly effective in helping the brain learn to respond and adapt to sensory input in a better way for an improved daily life experience. JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/LI N C O L N WAY

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EMPOWERING YOUR PATH ONWARD. Nave Wellness Center provides mental health counseling services for adults and youth in Chicago and throughout Illinois and Indiana. Our aim is to support the community through both virtual and in-person therapy sessions. We’re committed to walking alongside you, and empowering your journey forward. navecenter.com | 1-877-YAY-NAVE 8215 W. Lincoln Highway, Frankfort

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1023 S. Cedar Road | New Lenox, IL Assisted Living | Memory Care JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/LI N C O L N WAY

F I T F OR L IF E HOW BODY TECH TOTAL FITNESS SUPPORTS LONG-TERM HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

ARTICLE BY NICOLE SWANBERG WRIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEAN LACHAT

M UST SE E | HEALTH + W ELLN E SS

For more than two decades, Body Tech Total Fitness has been a cornerstone of the local fitness community, offering what owner Steve Tomczak proudly calls “the most well-rounded fitness experience in the south suburbs.” Established in 2002, the gym has grown into a full-service wellness destination with more than 250 pieces of strength and cardio equipment, functional training rooms, a wide range of group fitness classes, personal training, childcare, a smoothie bar, hydromassage loungers, and a hot yoga studio.

What sets the gym apart, Steve explains, is “our unique combination of amenities, cleanliness, comfortable atmosphere, quality personnel, and attention to detail. We take pride in helping each member reach their fitness goals.” Steve’s philosophy goes beyond physical fitness. “Body Tech is committed to positively changing people’s lives through exercise and the social experiences here,” he says. “We aim to add knowledge and exercise to each member’s life in a way that makes them healthier and more productive for years to come.” Personal training plays a major role in that mission. Members can choose traditional one-on-one sessions or opt for semi-private small-group training, which he describes as “a more affordable and fun” option that still provides accountability. “Clients get the personal attention and customization they need for quicker results,” he says. “And when a trainer is expecting you to be there, it’s much harder to just not show up.” Yoga has become another essential pillar. Body Tech’s dedicated hot yoga studio offers 12 weekly classes. “Yoga is a very personal practice,” Steve emphasizes. “You get what you give; it is a gift you give yourself. There is never any competition or judgment.” He notes that research shows yoga can help with mood, chronic illnesses, and stress, calling it “a fabulous complement to any fitness routine.” Group fitness remains popular, with strength, barre, dance, boot camp, and cycling classes leading the way. “Studies show a greater success rate for people participating in group classes,” Steve says. He credits the instructors’ energy, dedication, and care for the program’s longevity: “They are unbelievable. I’m so proud of their ability, dedication, and genuine care of each individual member.”

As members set New Year’s goals, the Body Tech team works hard to keep them engaged beyond January. “There is no ‘quick fix’… it’s a lifestyle commitment,” Steve says. To support that mindset, small-group and team-training programs include fitness assessments, functional movement screenings, and body scans, along with retesting every six to eight weeks. Recovery has also become a major focus, which is why Body Tech now invests heavily in stretching, hydromassage, and cryotherapy. “Recovery is huge,” he says. “These are great ways to relieve soreness, aches, and pains and allow for a full recovery going into the next workout.” For Steve, the most rewarding part of his work is seeing members transform their lives. “They’re happier, with a whole new perspective on life,” he says. “I’m glad I can provide this great space where they can go with confidence.” And he’s far from finished. “We can always do things better,” Steve says. “My commitment’s strong, and we’ll continue to work to serve our community and our members as best as possible.”

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/LI N C O L N WAY

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Innovative tr eatm ents for d ry eyes f r om Glim pse Med Spa

CLEAR VISION FOR 2026

ARTICLE BY NICOLE SWANBERG WRIGHT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEAN LACHAT

For many, the first instinct when dealing with dry eyes is to try over-the-counter drops, heat masks, or dietary changes. While these methods can help, they often only provide temporary relief. Glimpse Med Spa, in collaboration with Absolute Vision Care (AVC), offers a revolutionary approach that addresses the root cause: dysfunctional meibomian glands. Owner Jessica McKane’s journey with AVC began in 1997. While she initially pursued her passion for makeup and skincare, she returned to Absolute Vision Care seven years ago. “Dr. Peterson wanted Absolute to be a one-stop shop for patients,

EXP E RT H E LP | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

including skincare,” Jessica explains. “That’s when the idea of Glimpse Med Spa was born.” Dry eyes often stem from clogged meibomian glands, which produce the oil layer of the tear film that keeps eyes properly lubricated. Modern lifestyle factors, like increased smartphone and computer use, have significantly reduced our blink rate, contributing to gland blockages. The dry eye therapy offered at Glimpse Med Spa combines heat to loosen blockages with radiofrequency technology to rejuvenate the glands—providing a long-term solution rather than a temporary fix. “Most patients forget their drops, don’t stick to diets, or skip heat masks,” Jessica notes. “Our treatment actually fixes the problem.” After an initial consultation with one of AVC’s doctors, patients meet with Jessica for treatment. “I’ve been performing dry eye therapy for two years, and every patient has noticed improvement. For some, it’s been life-changing.” The therapy also incorporates advanced technologies like the Lumceca IPL and Forma treatments. IPL targets inflammation, rosacea, and broken capillaries around the eyes, while Forma stimulates cells in the eye and surrounding skin to restore vitality. “Most patients with dry eyes also have inflammation,” Jessica says. “These treatments address that while enhancing the overall health of the eyes and surrounding tissue.” Beyond relieving dry eyes, patients can enjoy aesthetic benefits. “The added perks include skin tightening, reduction of sun spots, and less redness,” Jessica shares. For those curious about the process, she emphasizes transparency and support. She provides detailed explanations for each step and shares a short video featuring doctors and patients who have undergone therapy. She also offers flexible payment plans to make the treatment more accessible. Whether dry eyes are mild or chronic, Glimpse Med Spa’s approach targets the source rather than masking symptoms. For patients struggling with persistent irritation, this innovative therapy offers hope, comfort, and a clearer, more vibrant outlook— both for the eyes and the skin around them.

Our dry eye therapy doesn’t just mask symptoms—it rejuvenates the glands, reduces inflammation, and provides long-term relief patients can truly feel.

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/LI N C O L N WAY

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