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Health and Wellness H E A LTH + W E LLN E S S

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Welcome to 2026! 2026- is it really here? SO hard to believe that 2025 is over and we’re running strong into this new year. How was your holiday season? I’m hoping that time with loved ones both far and near were filled with great moments and good feelings of connection and hope. Health and Wellness seems to be the focus of each new year, especially in January as we make resolutions to change this or that, eat better, do more or less, and focus on changing some aspect/s of our lives. While I think those things are great and often motivating, I’m curious if we could stop and recognize what we’re already doing well and parts of our lives that are fulfilling, and celebrating those things? Our lives are short, and we have the right to enjoy and be fulfilled with the simple things of life. My encouragement to you in this new year is that you focus on self care, connection, and reflect on what brings you joy and perhaps slowly detach from that which is not meant to stick around. I wonder if we did these things together if we’d experience more fulfillment, wonder, and welcome new experiences? I think it’s worth the risk to find out for ourselves. Speaking of new experiences, this issue is sure to bring you some great ideas around food, flexibility, and flavors! We really enjoyed putting this issue together for you, and we hope you’ll find some inspiration and new perspectives to help ring in the new year with your health and wellness! The photo this month is of me at the finish line of the half marathon in Richmond in November! I was super excited as well as aware of the journey it took me to finish-phew. My body was screaming and my heart was full. To that end, I hope that you and your family, loved ones, friends, and colleagues embark on journeys of joy and adventure, and that you’ll encourage one another to keep going, not give up, and enjoy the race as it unfolds. Here’s to an amazing new year with new partnerships, relationships, and wellness!

A A R O N S W A R T, P U B L I S H E R @ M I D LOT H I A N L I F E S T Y L E

January 2026 PUBLISHER

Aaron Swart | aaron.swart@citylifestyle.com STAF F P H OTO G R AP H E R

Amanda Rae Linas | amandarae@belovedpetphoto.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R

Amanda Rae Linas | amandarae@belovedpetphoto.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Amanda Rae Linas, Aaron M. Swart, MSW C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R

Amanda Rae Linas

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

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

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

14 08

Featured

08 12 14

Virginia Eye Institute

Cutting Edge Technology with a Strong Vision for Wellness

On the Cover

Departments

Mixed beverages with cherries.

Lifestyle Letter

Must See BEAUTY

Self Care WELLNESS

Pet Friendly ARTS + CULTURE

Happy Hour FOOD + BEVERAGE

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E

Eat Right FOOD + BEVERAGE

Healthy Lifestyle HEALTH + WELLNESS

Trend Setter WELLNESS

How To HEALTH + WELLNESS

A New Era of Personalized Wellness

Peptide Therapy & Comprehensive Support at The DRIPBaR Midlothian

Pet of the Month 2026!

Submit your pet for a chance to earn a dedicated photo session and magazine feature!

Photography: Olivie Strauss

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VIRGINIA EYE INSTITUTE ARTICLE BY STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMANDA RAE LINAS

CUT TING EDGE TECHNOLOGY WITH A STRONG VISION FOR WELLNES S Virginia Eye Institute (VEI) is dedicated to providing exceptional, board-certified care that encompasses a wide range of eye and vision health services. From thorough eye examinations and cutting-edge LASIK technology to personalized contact lens fittings and a complete optical shop staffed by certified opticians, VEI is committed to delivering tailored and precise eye care. Additionally, their services extend beyond vision health, offering audiology, aesthetic treatments, dry eye management, and more.

ADVANCED EYE CARE SERVICES

Focusing on innovation and patient well-being, VEI’s modern facilities in Richmond are equipped to handle both medical and cosmetic needs. Patients can feel confident that their eye health is in capable hands, whether they are dealing with chronic conditions like dry eye or seeking cosmetic enhancements.

SPECIALIZED EYE CARE TEAM

VEI boasts a team of specialists in various fields of ophthalmology, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive and specialized care for complex eye conditions. The specialties include: • Retina Specialists: Providing expert treatment for conditions such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal detachments. • Glaucoma Experts: Offering both medical and surgical options to manage intraocular pressure and safeguard vision. • Uveitis Care: Specialists who address inflammatory eye diseases that may impact vision. • Pediatric Ophthalmology: Comprehensive services for children’s eye health, including treatment for amblyopia and strabismus. • Neuro-Ophthalmology: Focusing on complex neurological conditions that affect vision. CONTINUED >

M UST SE E | BEAUTY

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/M I D LOT HI A N

AUDIOLOGY SERVICES FOR ENHANCED HEARING

Understanding that eye health is intertwined with hearing health, VEI’s audiologists provide thorough hearing evaluations, customized hearing aid fittings, and treatment plans that align with your lifestyle. By prioritizing your auditory well-being, VEI helps you stay connected with loved ones and enjoy the sounds of life. For more details about their audiology services, visit veihearingcenter.com.

AESTHETIC TREATMENTS FOR RENEWED CONFIDENCE

The Aesthetic Center at VEI features a variety of minimally invasive cosmetic procedures designed to enhance your appearance

M UST SE E | BEAUTY

and boost your confidence. Led by Dr. William Bearden and Dr. Nicole Langelier, both experts in oculofacial plastic surgery, along with Aesthetic Nurse Leisha Puryear, who specializes in advanced laser and injectable treatments, the center offers: • Surgical Options: Upper and lower eyelid surgery, ptosis repair, and brow lifts for a refreshed look while maintaining natural aesthetics. • Laser Treatments: Sciton laser options like HALO and BBL target sun damage, wrinkles, and uneven skin texture. • Injectables: Popular options such as Botox, Dysport, and dermal fillers add volume and smooth fine lines for a rejuvenated appearance.

EIR

D-

RT IF I

OP TIC

IAN S AR

E ON

HAND T O A S S I S T YOU IN SELECTING THE IDEAL EYEWEAR AND ENSURING A COMFORTABLE, PRECISE FIT. SPECIALTY SERVICES SUPPORTING EYE HEALTH

VEI emphasizes its commitment to eye care with specialized treatments like dry eye management and advanced cataract surgery options. Additionally, they offer scleral lenses for hard-to-fit patients and comprehensive LASIK procedures to correct vision, consistently striving to provide optimal results for every individual.

COMPREHENSIVE EYE CARE SOLUTIONS

VEI houses a convenient optical shop filled with designer frames and a diverse selection of contact lenses, making it easy to find options that match your personal style. Their board-certified opticians are on hand to assist you in selecting the ideal eyewear and ensuring a comfortable, precise fit. To discover more about the exceptional services offered at Virginia Eye Institute, visit vaeye.com for a complete list of available treatments.

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/M I D LOT HI A N

A NEW ERA OF ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY DRIPBAR STAFF

Personalized

WELLNESS

Peptide Therapy & Comprehensive Support at The DRIPBaR Midlothian January marks the season of renewal—a time when many of us look inward and invest in our health with fresh intention. At The DRIPBaR Midlothian, the arrival of a new year brings an expanded suite of advanced peptide therapies, a fully integrated functional medicine team, and a renewed commitment to helping our community optimize longevity, body composition, immunity, vitality, and overall wellbeing. Peptides have rapidly emerged as one of the most transformative tools in modern integrative medicine. These naturally occurring chains of amino acids act as signaling molecules in the body, helping regulate metabolism, hormone pathways, tissue repair, inflammation, cognitive function, sleep quality, and more. At The DRIPBaR Midlothian, peptides are not a one-size-fits-all solution—they are carefully selected, medically supervised, and paired with a supportive lifestyle plan to make sure patients achieve safe, optimized, and lasting results. But in 2025, the clinic is expanding far beyond peptide reccomentation. The focus is now on whole-person, medically guided programs, built to protect one of the most important indicators of long-term health: lean muscle mass. At The DripBar Midlothian, we are the only clinic in the entire state of Virginia to be owned and operated by a physician and dentist, and have a naturopathic doctor and functional nutritionist on staff. We believe in comprehensive wellness that can only come from having providers with diverse educational backgrounds. WHY PEPTIDES—AND WHY NOW? Peptide therapy earned mainstream attention for its ability to support weight loss, fat burning, improved athletic recovery, deeper sleep, better cognitive clarity, and healthier aging. Peptides like semaglutide, tirzepatide, retatrutide, CJC-1295, ipamorelin, BPC-157, GHK-Cu, and TB-500 have decades of research supporting their roles in metabolic regulation and cellular repair (a full list of peptides can be found at The Dripbar Midlothian’s website). However, the rapid popularity of peptides has highlighted an important truth: rapid weight loss without structured support can lead to significant muscle loss, which negatively impacts metabolism, immune function, bone density, and long-term vitality.

S ELF CA R E | W EL L NES S

The DRIPBaR Midlothian is one of the only clinics in Central Virginia that has proactively built Peptide Support Programs to ensure patients lose fat—not muscle—as they progress through treatment. INTRODUCING THE PEPTIDE SUPPORT PROGRAMS: PROTECTION, PERFORMANCE & PERSONALIZED CARE Led by certified functional nutritionist Tamia Washington, the Peptide Support Programs were designed to help clients maintain lean mass, regulate electrolytes, stabilize metabolism, and avoid the common pitfalls seen with peptides, including fatigue, weakness, plateaus, or unwanted muscle wasting. Tamia works closely with each client to create: • Targeted nutrition plans • Electrolyte and hydration protocols • Personalized protein goals • Supplement strategies • Lifestyle guidance Tamia’s approach is rooted in functional nutrition and backed by a deep understanding of weight loss making every peptide journey safer, more supported, and more effective. WELCOMING NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN DR. AARON PAYNE The DRIPBaR Midlothian is proud to welcome Dr. Aaron Payne, anaturopathic physician with extensive experience in functional medicine, integrative therapeutics, chronic illness support, and regenerative health. Dr. Payne previously owned and operated a multi-million-dollar functional medicine and naturopathic clinic—known nationally for its innovative, science-backed programs and high patient success rates. Over five years ago, he stepped away from his thriving practice after the devastating loss of his wife to cancer. As a devoted father, he chose to prioritize raising his two young daughters. Now returning to the field he loves, Dr. Payne brings unmatched depth, compassion, and expertise to The DRIPBaR Midlothian. For patients navigating complex symptoms, chronic fatigue, inflammation, mold or Lyme concerns, or lingering metabolic issues, Dr. Payne’s guidance is invaluable.

The DRIPBaR Midlothian offers an unmatched blend of science, CLINICAL OVERSIGHT BY DR. GREGORY STURZ, DO, PHD Peptide consultations at The DRIPBaR Midlothian are led by Dr. Gregory Sturz, a physician with a PhD in cardiovascular physiology and extensive research background. Known for his integrative mindset and evidence-based approach, Dr. Sturz carefully reccomends peptide protocols that align with each client’s goals—whether improving body composition, healing chronic injuries, balancing metabolism, or promoting healthy aging. His advanced knowledge of cellular signaling pathways ensures every program is safe, precise, and tailored. Clients can schedule: • Peptide consultations with Dr. Sturz • Personalized functional wellness programs with Dr. Payne • Peptide support programs with Tamia Washington All services are HSA and FSA-eligible, making integrative care more accessible for families across Chesterfield and Greater Richmond. A FULLY INTEGRATED, RESULTS-DRIVEN WELLNESS EXPERIENCE What truly sets The DRIPBaR Midlothian apart is the collaboration among its clinical team. Peptide clients can seamlessly combine: • Medical supervision • Functional medicine evaluations • Nutrition support • IV therapy • NAD+ protocols • Red-light therapy • Ozone therapy • Lab testing • Infrared Sauna • Metabolic optimization This holistic, multidisciplinary model helps clients feel supported from every angle.

compassion, and expertise. With comprehensive support under one roof, clients can pursue their wellness goals with clarity and confidence.

START THE NEW YEAR WITH A TEAM BEHIND YOU The DRIPBaR Midlothian offers an unmatched blend of science, compassion, and expertise. With peptide therapy, functional medicine, personalized nutrition, and comprehensive support under one roof, clients can pursue their wellness goals with clarity and confidence. JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/M I D LOT HI A N

Pet of the Mont h 2026!

Submit your pet for a chance to earn a dedicated photo session and magazine feature!

Entries are officially open for this year’s Pet of the Month features. All pets are invited to participate. Whether your companion is furry, feathered, scaly, tall, tiny, or anything in between, every species and personality is welcome. We’re seeking pets who stand out

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMANDA RAE LINAS

P E T F R IE N D LY | ARTS + CU LT U RE

through their story, their character, or simply the bond they share with their humans. Each month, one pet will be selected to receive a professional photo session from Beloved Pet and Equine Photography along with a feature in the magazine. The goal is simple: to highlight the pets who bring joy, companionship, and personality into their families’ lives. Entries reopen annually. If you submitted in 2025, you’ll need to submit again for 2026 to

be considered. This ensures each year’s selections represent a fresh group of standout pets. Participating is straightforward and open to everyone. Whether your pet loves the camera or is experiencing their first photoshoot, each session is designed to be comfortable and enjoyable. Visit belovedpetphoto.com/midlothian to submit your pet for consideration. We look forward to discovering the incredible companions in our community!

We’re seeking pets who stand out through their story, their character, or simply the bond they share with their humans.

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/M I D LOT HI A N

ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HASBROUCK PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED

CHEERS cherries TO CELEBRATE HEALTH, WELLNESS & DRY JANUARY WITH THIS SUPERFOOD MOCKTAIL It’s been said that “life is just a bowl of cherries,” and it just so happens that cherries might improve your life. This nutrient-dense, heart-healthy fruit may lower blood pressure and cholesterol, combat inflammation, help the body manage stress, speed recovery after exercise, balance your mood and help you sleep. To say it is a superfood may be an understatement. So it’s only fitting that we include a mocktail recipe with cherries as the star ingredient this month. Let’s drink to health, wellness and a wonderful year ahead! Cheers!

H AP PY H OU R | FO O D + BE VE RAGE

S O CHERRY

fizz :

INGREDIENTS: • • • • • •

¼ cup Frozen cherries ¼ cup Tart cherry juice 1 tsp Honey, optional 1 Lime wedge Sparkling water Mint leaves

DIRECTIONS: 1. Place cherries and honey in glass and muddle together. 2. Add cherry juice and top with sparkling water or ginger ale. (If adding ginger ale, do not add honey.) 3. Squeeze lime juice and add lime wedge. 4. Garnish with mint leaf.

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/M I D LOT HI A N

ARTICLE BY ANA MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

HAVE A FRESH NEW YEAR! NUTRITIOUS AND DELICIOUS FLAVORED WATER INFUSED

WITH ANTIOXIDANTS AND VITAMINS FOR A HEALTHIER YOU!

If there is one change you can make for your overall health, it is to drink more water! Our bodies need water. Water helps fuel every cell, tissue, and organ, keeps you hydrated, and helps with weight loss, healthy skin, bone health, and digestion. Take it to the next level and create infusion beverages by mixing and adding these ingredients to your water. Fruits, vegetables, and herbs are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals. You will love the flavors and the added health benefits!

BLUEBERRY & ORANGE INFUSED WATER:

STRAWBERRY & ORANGE INFUSED WATER:

INGREDIENTS • 1 ½ cups of blueberries • ½ cup sliced thin orange rounds • 8 cups filtered water

INGREDIENTS • 1 ½ cups of diced strawberries • ½ cup sliced thin orange rounds • 8 cups filtered water

DIRECTIONS Pour ingredients into a pitcher. Refrigerate for 3 hours.

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

ORANGE, LEMON & LIME INFUSED WATER:

CUCUMBER, LEMON, AND MINT INFUSED WATER:

INGREDIENTS • ¼ cup sliced thin lemon rounds • ¼ cup sliced thin lime rounds • ½ cup sliced thin orange rounds • 8 cups filtered water

INGREDIENTS • 1 cup of sliced thin cucumber rounds • ½ cup sliced thin lemon or lime rounds • 10 mint leaves • 8 cups filtered water

DIRECTIONS Pour ingredients into a pitcher. Refrigerate for 3 hours.

DIRECTIONS Pour ingredients into a pitcher. Refrigerate for 3 hours. CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/M I D LOT HI A N

BENEFITS: • Blueberries: Low in sugar and high in antioxidants, blueberries are very nutrient-dense and contain fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K and Manganese. They can help with bones, skin, and blood pressure health. • Cucumbers: Cucumbers are about 95 percent water, have antioxidants that help lower blood pressure, contain vitamin A and are high in vitamin K. • Lemon/limes: Both are high in vitamin C, an antioxidant, which can benefit your skin, blood pressure and immune system. • Mint leaves: Mint’s anti-inflammatory properties can help your digestion, fresh breath and are rich in nutrients and antioxidants. • Oranges: Loaded with vitamin C, which can help your skin and immune system. They are anti-inflammatory and have potassium which can help with blood pressure levels and calcium for healthy bones. • Strawberries: Are loaded with antioxidants, low in sugar, may help improve blood sugar and cholesterol, and inflammation. Strawberries are rich in phytochemicals, vitamin C, vitamin A and Potassium. Try these delicious and healthy recipes or choose your ingredients and create your own!

“You will love the flavors and the added health benefits!” 20

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

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/M I D LOT HI A N

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W H AT’S IN YOUR CART? H E A LT H Y A N D A F F O R DA B L E M E A L P R E P F O R YO U R L I F E !

If you find yourself skipping meals because you don’t have time, or if you believe eating healthy is unaffordable, fear not and read on! As a dietitian, I can tell you that eating healthy is easier than you think if you follow these tips:

ARTICLE BY CLAUDIA MARTIN-AYOADE, MBA, MS, RD, LD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

EAT R IGH T | FO O D + BEVE RAGE

TIP #1 YOU CAN STILL HAVE A VARIETY OF HEALTHY AND DELICIOUS FOODS BY PLANNING AND PREPPING YOUR MEALS FOR THE WEEK. • Preparing whole meals or dishes ahead of time saves a lot of time for busy people. • Ingredients required for specific meals can be prepped ahead of time to reduce total cooking time in the kitchen. • Having pre-prepared meals on hand can also reduce portion size and help you reach your nutrition and wellness goals. • Choose microwave and freezer safe containers for proper storage, including BPA-free plastic, flexible silicone or glassware containers. CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/M I D LOT HI A N

TIP #2

TIP #3

C H O O S E I N G R E D I E N T S T H AT A R E V E R S AT I L E A N D C A N B E U S E D I N M U LT I P L E M E A L S TO R E D U C E WAS T E A N D SAV E M O N E Y.

M A K E A G R O C E RY L I S T B E F O R E YO U G O S H O P P I N G .

• Example: Choose familiar recipes for tacos, chili or spaghetti in the same week to use all your ground beef or turkey. I brown the ground beef and portion it in freezer bags flattened out for space saving freezing and time-saving cooking. • Pre-cut vegetables can be used for fresh ready-to-eat meals that do not require cooking, like salads and sandwiches or as part of a cooked recipe. Include leftovers in meal planning. • I also cut up ripe fresh fruits and freeze them to use in smoothies instead of throwing them out. • Frozen fruits and vegetables often cost less and last longer than fresh ones. They retain high-quality nutrients because they are frozen immediately after being harvested. • Most frozen vegetables have no additives and preservatives, but some may contain added seasonings, salt, sugar or sauces. Avoid added ingredients by paying attention to the label and ingredient list.

• A list helps limit distractions, keep you on budget, restricts unhealthy impulse purchases and reduces multiple trips for forgotten items. • Buy kitchen staples to have on hand to make quick simple meals like canned tomatoes, tuna fish or salmon, corn, your favorite beans and grains such as rice, quinoa, barley, farro and whole grain pasta. • Plan your menus based on grocery store sales and produce that are in season and add beans for plantbased protein. • Buy extra staples when they are on sale, and don’t overlook the bulk bins to buy just the amount you need. • Buy pre-prepped items in the grocery store to further save time or use the salad bar for small servings.

TIP #4 T RY N OT TO G R O C E RY S H O P W H E N YO U A R E H U N G RY. • Everything looks delicious when you are hungry, and this could lead to unnecessary and unhealthy food purchases. • The additional calories may not be needed, and food could be wasted if not eaten.

EAT R IGH T | FO O D + BEVE RAGE

MEAL PREPPING CAN IMPROVE Y O U R H E A LT H A N D YOU R L I F E !

TIP #5 H E A LT H Y S N AC K S A R E P O S S I B L E . The total amount of snacks you prepare will depend on the required number of snacks planned daily, based on your health and wellness goals.

M Y S N AC K S O F C H O I C E I N C LU D E : • • • •

Nut butters with crackers or pretzels Fresh fruit (whole or pre-cut) Sliced vegetables String cheese, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, hummus • Home-made trail mix with dried fruit, unsalted nuts and seeds, to limit sugar and sodium intake Portioning snacks during your overall meal prep prevents mindless snacking without knowing how much you are actually eating.

Claudia Martin-Ayoade, MBA, MS, RDN, LD, is a registered dietitian/nutritionist at agesmartnutrition.com JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/M I D LOT HI A N

BUILDING HEALTHIER HEAR FROM NASM-CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINER ABOUT ESTABLISHING THE BEST HABITS ARTICLE BY KRISTIN BURNELL

The new year is a classic kickoff to start fresh and build many resolutions that we all hope stick around. How many times do your resolutions fall through each year? It can be challenging to build new habits and switch up routines if you’re looking for a change. That’s why we rounded up the best advice to establishing habits and making them stay for good. We spoke with Danielle Johnston, National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)-certified personal trainer and aspiring kinesiologist, who broke down her top tips to maintaining healthy habits this new year.

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | H E ALT H + WE LLN E SS

START WITH A SMALL HABIT AND MAKE IT SOMETHING YOU ENJOY

HABITS

Think 1-3 things maximum and then give yourself at least a month or two to apply the change. If you like to eat and cook, maybe try a new recipe or browse a cookbook in the library or bookstore for inspiration. If you like fashion, maybe try cleaning out a section of your closet (i.e. tops, bottoms, shoes, etc) to make way for 1 new piece. If you like being outdoors, maybe you try adding in just a 5 minute walk down the road.

IF YOU MISS A DAY, TRY AGAIN

If you miss a day or make a mistake with whatever resolution you’re working on, take that next opportunity to try again. Danielle uses the goal to eat healthier as an example. Health can be interpreted in many different ways but if you can take the small first step of looking at ingredients, that alone can make a world’s difference in the recipe you use so maybe you don’t even have to alter or substitute it. Or if your goal is to snack less but one day you snack more, don’t wave the flag and sabotage your efforts. Take a minute to breathe through the moment and then move on, enjoying the ebb and flow of health instead of going all in or nothing. Starting small allows you to adjust everyday habits that will, with time, transition to lifestyle changes.

CREATE 3 DIFFERENT TYPES OF RESOLUTIONS

Danielle says to create 1 health resolution, 1 personal resolution, and 1 professional resolution as it is the best format to better yourself in multiple realms instead of just physical health. Too often, we get caught up in this “New Year New Me” mindset and create a list of things you want to change or start doing. But as they get lost in the busy to-do list of life and we forget,

“The new year is a classic kickoff to start fresh and build many resolutions that we all hope stick around.” we can also feel like a failure and revert to “I’ll try again tomorrow or next year.” But what if you don’t have to start over, just keep going.

TRACK YOUR PROGRESS AND VISUALIZE YOUR FUTURE

Whether you keep a notebook of your habit building, or keep track on your phone, it is important to acknowledge the personal progress made. This will also help you see the future that you want to build as you make more desirable changes in your life. If you want to track how you feel after working out, it will serve as a reflection on the progress made through what has been written down. This will encourage you to continue pushing for your goals!

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/M I D LOT HI A N

The New Frontier of Health U N D E R S TA N D I N G T H E “WHY” BEHIND WELLNESS ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES AND PROVIDED like ferritin or SHBG—which binds testosterone and estrogen—are completely missed. Beyond lab work, there are other factors: mitochondrial health, sleep quality, mental health, and even how sensitive your dopamine and serotonin receptors are. “Normal” labs do not always equal normal physiology for you.

AN INTERVIEW WITH DR. KYLE GILLETT

Why do so many people feel exhausted, foggy, or unwell, even when their medical tests insist everything is “fine”? Why are we prescribed quick fixes instead of being given real answers? Across modern medicine, a shift is happening. More patients are demanding real explanations, and more clinicians are rethinking what “healthcare” should actually mean. Leading that shift is Dr. Kyle Gillett, a dual board-certified physician in Family Medicine and Obesity Medicine and an expert in metabolic, hormonal, and preventive health. Through his clinic, research, and The Gillett Health Podcast, he’s become a trusted voice for people seeking science-based, root-cause solutions rather than symptom-based band-aids. “Functional medicine is really ‘root cause medicine,’” Dr. Gillett often says. “It’s about asking why the problem exists and not just quieting the noise.” In this Q&A, Dr. Gillett breaks down the most common questions he hears from patients and offers simple, actionable guidance anyone can begin using today.

1. “WHY DO I FEEL AWFUL EVEN THOUGH MY LABS ARE ‘NORMAL’?”

Dr. Gillett: I like to say, “There is no such thing as ‘we’ve done everything.’” We can always dig deeper. Often, the labs ordered are the wrong type of assay, or important markers

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2. “HOW DO I FIX MY ENERGY, BRAIN FOG, OR SLEEP WITHOUT 20 MEDICATIONS?”

Dr. Gillett: Start with a good, comprehensive lab panel to assess nutrients and hormones. Then build the foundation with sleep. My favorite tool is the 10/3/2/1/0 rule: • 10 hours before bed: No caffeine • 3 hours: Avoid large meals and alcohol • 2 hours: No vigorous exercise • 1 hour: No bright blue or white light • 0: No snoozing and no inconsistent sleep/wake times Aim for 7+ hours of high-quality sleep. When sleep improves, energy almost always follows.

3. “IS MY GUT ACTUALLY CAUSING ALL THESE OTHER PROBLEMS?”

Dr. Gillett: Gut health influences most major health issues, but it’s rarely the only problem. Diet is my second pillar of health for a reason. Exercise, sleep, and stress reduction all improve gut function too. Even simple tools like self-hypnotherapy apps can reduce gut-related symptoms.

4. “WHAT CAN I DO RIGHT NOW, TODAY, TO START FEELING BETTER?”

Dr. Gillett: Focus on the pillars of health: diet, exercise, sleep, stress, sunlight, social connection, and spiritual

“I believe that true innovation requires a commitment to constructive self-criticism to continuously raise the standard of care.” health. Treat them like habits and find ways to make them enjoyable or easy to start. Supplements and medications are supportive tools, not substitutes. Think of them like turbo chargers: they enhance a system that’s already functioning.

A FINAL WORD FROM DR. GILLETT

“The goal isn’t to tell people what to do, rather it’s to give them the information they need to decide what’s best for themselves.” By understanding the why behind your symptoms, labs, and lifestyle choices, you become the driver, not the passenger, of your health journey.

To hear the extended conversation with Dr. Kyle Gillett, scan the QR code for an exclusive podcast episode.

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ARTICLE BY APRIL SCHULTE-BARCLAY

Values

Health

Is the most important key to living a full and healthy life hiding from you? There are many factors to consider when thinking about what constitutes health. The food we eat, exercise, environmental influences, our emotions, and our spiritual awareness are all pillars of health. However, there is one factor that tops the list which often goes unspoken; living in alignment with your value system. Defining values helps a person to structure their life based on personal belief systems by determining what is most meaningful and important to them. From there, a sense of purpose is derived and defined values become tenets from which to live. There are plentiful examples of values, and they vary from person to person. Some examples of values include family, humility, benevolence, leadership, kindness, independence, creativity, and adventure. Our emotions serve to guide us to understanding whether our actions are in alignment with our values. When we live incongruently with our value system, we are betraying ourselves and delivering a subconscious message that we do not matter. Emotions that can come from not living in accordance with our values are based in fear and include anxiety, depression, anger, resentment, and jealousy. Living from a place of fear tends

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to foster bad habits such as addictive behavior, poor dietary choices, negative sleep habits, and unhealthy relationships. Physiologically, the natural flow of energy in the body becomes stuck, wreaking havoc in the body physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. From there, symptoms and illness ensue. However, when we love and respect ourselves enough, we will spend our time and energy according to our values and emotions where love becomes more prevalent. Those emotions include gratitude, joy, peace, comfort, connection, trust, and happiness. Living from love leads to a desire, willingness and commitment to engage in activities that fulfill our sense of purpose. By doing so, our body’s energy moves with ease. When our energy flows freely, we feel vital, healthy, purposeful, and joyful. Identifying our values becomes easier when we create space in our lives to understand what brings us meaning in life. Here are five steps to create space to aid in identifying your values:

“The food we eat, exercise, environmental influences, our emotions, and our spiritual awareness are all pillars of health.” CONTINUED >

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5. Speak your values out loud

1. Grounding/Earthing I have experienced it myself and I hear so many others share a similar experience, that being in nature is healing. Getting our hands into the earth with gardening, walking along the beach, taking a hike, or even lying in the grass brings an almost indescribable sense of well-being. Connecting with the earth’s electrical charge is thought to aid in pain reduction, modulate the immune system, and reduce inflammation. It also can lead to feeling more centered, allowing us to focus on what is most important to us.

2. Meditation/prayer Setting your intentions in quiet solitude using meditation or prayer provides clarity. Meditation may seem overwhelming, but you can make it simple by not expecting perfection in the process. I suggest finding guided meditations online that grab your attention. Try various guided meditations until you find one that feels right.

3. Exercise In addition to the more obvious benefits of exercise, it temporarily unblocks stagnation thereby creating space for objectivity.

4. Journaling Getting thoughts on paper helps clarify intentions.

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There are many benefits to literally speaking our truths and discussing our values out loud with a trusted confidant. Bouncing ideas and having meaningful discussions can help us determine our framework and organize our thinking. Sometimes friends and family may not provide the most objective perspectives and professional counseling or life coaching may be more appropriate, while at other times a friend or family member is the most perfect fit! When we live in alignment with our values, we are honoring ourselves in the most self-loving way. From there, our vibrancy shines to our loved ones, our neighbors and even strangers we see out and about. It becomes not only the best gift you can give yourself, but that of our community. So cheers to 2026, let’s make this the best year yet!

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