Health & Wellness
JA N UA RY 2 02 4
F OR T HE BE AU TIF UL SM I L E YOU A LWAYS WA N T ED www.e ma denta l.com
Dr. L isa B . E m irzian Fellow American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry
VISIT OUR TAPROOM Wednesday 4pm - 9pm Thursday 4pm - 9pm Friday 4pm - 10pm Saturday 12pm - 10pm Sunday 2pm - 8pm Visit our facebook page for more details.
• 413.203.2537 • ABANDONEDBUILDINGBREWERY.COM 142 Pleasant St., Easthampton, MA 01027 2
Dr. Alissa B . Marian o Board Certif ied Prosthodontist
LIFESTYLE LETTER
January Health & Wellness
January 2024 PUBLISHER
Candice Berube | candice.berube@citylifestyle.com 413-519-6752 E D I TO R
Tina Lesniak | tina.lesniak@citylifestyle.com
For many of us, this time of year is full of excitement. It presents us with a reset, new horizons and goals to pursue. But for others, January can be a reminder of failed attempts from years past and the burden of expectation that this year will be different. We approached this issue from a mindset of not supplying quick fixes to check boxes in the short term, but inspiring our readers to invest in what is sustainable over the long haul. We wanted to share stories of business and local entities that will inspire lasting, realistic, long-term improvements to your physical, emotional and mental health. When it comes to anything in life - business, finance, food, home and personal health – it’s not what you do some days that move the needle - it’s what you do MOST days. For better or worse! For instance, taking a vacation every day would be financially and practically unfeasible, but taking a trip a few times a year is doable. Having a beautiful steak dinner with a few cocktails and creme brulee every night for dinner isn’t best for your health, but doing so once in a while might be fine! It’s not the sometimes choices we make, it’s the most of the time choices. So plan the vacation AND work to establish more regular rest in your work week. Join a fitness community or gym AND enjoy that dessert you’ve been wanting to try. It’s not what you do some days - it’s what you do most days that will lead to a more peaceful, filling and fabulous year. Here’s to you! We’re rooting for you.
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lisa Queenin, Madeline LeBlanc C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S
Hannah Josephine Photography, Madeline LeBlanc, Joy Gora
Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein
Yours in health,
AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
CANDICE BERUBE, PUBLISHER @WESTFIELD_NORTHAMPTON_CL
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Northampton City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Northampton area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle
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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 Northampton City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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inside the issue JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S
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Featured
12 16 20 28 6
12 Departments
Planning for the Later Years Estate planning is necessary for families
Clearing out Clutter
Small steps lead to big effects on mental health
Girls on the Run Western MA
Inspiring girls to be joyful, healthy, and confident
Whole-Person Caring
Looking at each individual to provide better care
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Lifestyle Letter
8
City Scene
10
Business Monthly
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Expert Help FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES
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Mental Wellbeing WELLNESS
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Kid’s Corner HEALTH + WELLNESS
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Happy Hour WELLNESS
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Self Care HEALTH + WELLNESS
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Events
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Hot Spot FOOD + BEVERAGE
D E D I C AT E D . D E P E N D A B L E . C O N F I D E N T.
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Greater Northampton Area JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HA M P TO N
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JANUARY 2024
city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
VALLEY LIGHT OPERA
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NORTHAMPTON.LIVE
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PROGRESSIVE BREWING COMPANY
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4
5
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STAYIN’ ALIVE HOT YOGA STUDIO
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SMALL OVEN BAKERY
VISIT HAMPSHIRE COUNTY
PASSALONGS FARM
1: Valley Light Opera at Academy of Music Theatre. 2: Afternoon dining at The Roost. 3: A delicious meal from Progressive Brewing Company. 4: Celebrating six years of Stayin’ Alive Hot Yoga Studio. 5: Pumpkin danish at Small Oven Bakery. 6: Tip Top Wine Shop is now open in Easthampton. 7: Holiday wreath from Passalongs Farm.
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 @ W E S T F I E L D _ N O R T H A M P T O N _ C L
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C I T Y SC E N E
DESIGN • CREATE • CONSTRUCT
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Estate Planning for the Golden Years Happy New Year! Wills • Trusts • MassHealth Planning Real Estate & Business Entity Formation
OPEN NEW YEAR’S DAY 9a-2p 99 Main Street, Florence | 413.584.3137 www.imissflorencediner.com MONDAY - FRIDAY 7-3p • SATURDAY 7:30-3p • SUNDAY 8-2p
413-527-8660 | www.parkerandogrady.com 124 COLLEGE HWY P.O. BOX 249 | SOUTHAMPTON, MA JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HA M P TO N
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JANUARY 2024
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
Dr. Jeffrey Zesiger Named Medical Director at Hospice of the Fisher Home Maria Rivera, executive director, has announced the appointment of Dr. Jeffrey Zesiger as Medical Director of the Amherst-based hospice. “Jeff is a well-known and respected palliative care doctor in Western Massachusetts, and I am thrilled to have him on the Fisher Home team,” Rivera said. “He brings a wealth of experience and expertise in hospice care. He is very familiar with the Fisher Home, having had patients here.” Zesiger is also part of the palliative care team at Baystate Health.
Photography Submitted
ServiceNet names Normand as VP of Community Programs Polly Normand is the new vice president of community programs at ServiceNet, where she is overseeing shelter and housing services, substance use recovery services and the REACH Early Intervention Program. No stranger to ServiceNet, a nonprofit mental health and human services organization serving communities throughout western Massachusetts, Normand comes to the position after serving as a consultant for the past several months, and prior to that as a board member for six years.
Photography Submitted
Greenfield Savings Bank Opens Renovated King Street Branch Greenfield Savings Bank celebrated the grand reopening of its renovated King Street branch in Northampton. Greenfield Savings Bank celebrated the ribbon-cutting ceremony on Nov. 8 with many local businesses, including United Way of the Franklin and Hampshire Region. Since 1869, Greenfield Savings Bank has prided itself on being a full-service community bank that serves Hampshire and Franklin counties.
Photography: United Way
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 / N O R T H A M P T O N
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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY
Thank you for voting us “BEST DENTIST”
Alan M . Kasperows ki, D D S • B r ya n M. Ka s perows ki, D M D, FAG D • M e g h an Ke lley, D M D • D r. A lis o n Le e co ck DMD
Specializing in expert dental care including preventive, restorative, implant and cosmetic services 79 B roa d St re e t , We st f iel d , M A • (41 3 ) 562- 5494 • d rka s p e rows ki .com
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Planning for the Later Years ESTATE PLANNING IS NECESSARY FOR FAMILIES
Rickie has worked at Parker & O'Grady since right after high school.
One of the hardest, but most necessary, things adults can do is plan for what they want in their older years and for how to handle their estate. Speaking to a qualified and experienced lawyer is essential to making sure those decisions are accurately set up and legally recorded. Frederickie “Rickie” A. Rizos, an associate attorney at Parker & O’Grady, LLC in Southampton, helps people to do just that. “It is never too early to start your estate planning,” explains Rickie. “Too often people think they have to wait for a certain age or milestone, but there can be various benefits to getting your planning done early.” Rickie recommends that all adults, starting at age 18, have a health care proxy and durable power of attorney. These documents clearly lay out who should make medical and financial decisions for a person who is not able to do so on their own. If these documents aren’t in place, the court will appoint a person to do so - something that can take time and potentially mean appointing a person whom the ill person may not want to handle their affairs. Another key item for adults should be creating an estate plan, which dictates how a person’s
ARTICLE BY TINA LESNIAK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HANNAH JOSEPHINE PHOTOGRAPHY
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EXP E RT H E LP | FI NANACE + LE GAL SE RVICE S
assets should be divided upon death. Without one, the state’s descendant statute will make that decision. “You lose control over where your assets end up,” explains Rickie. “This is a factor many people do not realize and another important reason to get your wishes in writing.” Rickie also strongly recommends that people set up trusts for ease of transferring ownership of property upon their death. A will alone does not avoid the probate process. “Trusts are not as scary as they may seem,” says Rickie. “Trusts can be used to avoid probate, protect assets from nursing homes, and/or significantly reduce or eliminate estate taxes.” For many people, the hardest part of estate planning is just getting started. Talking about what will happen in people’s later years and upon their death is not a comfortable topic for most people, and one many try to avoid. However, that avoidance can make things far more difficult for them and their families. “Estate planning can be very overwhelming for clients, ultimately resulting in them pushing it off far too long,” says Rickie. “It’s not a good idea to be implementing your estate planning on your death bed. I would encourage anyone considering estate planning to come in and have a conversation. I find that many of my clients find the experience to be enlightening.” Attorney Cheryl Parker began Parker & O’Grady, LLC in March 1984, later partnering with her husband William O’Grady, and creating a successful general practice. Cheryl’s specialty is elder care law and Rickie hopes to continue that legacy. In the near future, the practice plans to extend its services to include civil and criminal litigation, divorce, and family law, making it a full-service law firm that attends
CONTINUED >
“It is never too early to start your estate planning.”
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“Too often people think they have to wait for a certain age or milestone, but there can be various benefits to getting your planning done early.”
TOP: Frederickie “Rickie” A. Rizos specializes in estate planning. BOTTOM: The firm is welcoming to its clients.
to even more of the community’s needs. For both Cheryl and Rickie, being from Southampton, where the practice is located, gives them tremendous familiarity with the community and the needs of its residents, as well as a desire to make sure everyone has access to a reliable attorney. “A complete estate plan is the final gift you leave to your loved ones,” says Rickie. “An estate plan can be very comforting during a time of great loss. It provides your loved ones with relief and saves hours upon hours of time when it comes to settling your estate.” Rickie has been working at the firm since just after high school, in roles ranging from receptionist to law clerk to her current role as an attorney. Rickie can be reached via telephone 413.527.8660 or by email rrizos@pog.law. Parker & O’Grady, LLC is located at 124 College Highway in Southampton. For more information, visit ParkerAndOGrady.com.
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EXP E RT H E LP | FI NANACE + LE GAL SE RVICE S
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JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HA M P TO N
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ARTICLE BY TINA LESNIAK
SMALL STEPS LEAD TO BIG EFFECTS ON MENTAL HEALTH An organized room can lead to better mental health.
CLEARING OUT CLUTTER 16
M EN TA L WE LLB E IN G | WE LLN E SS
At the start of the new year, many people resolve to eliminate clutter and have an organized living space because clutter can have negative mental health effects. “When our environment is cluttered, it can overwhelm our nervous system. It can be hard to feel moti-
Although not everyone may find clutter bothersome, for those who do, it can exacerbate existing negative feelings. “If you already experience mental health issues, clutter can worsen those symptoms and add on embarrassment,
“SMALL STEPS STACK UP TO MAKE BIG CHANGES.” vated or take action,” explains Sara Vatore, a somatic experiencing practitioner, peak performance coach and the owner of Somasynthesis Studios. “We have a very strong freeze response that can feel like our body is shutting down.” This is one of the many ways clutter can physically and mentally impact people’s lives. “Clutter and mental health are intertwined in so many ways and impact so many lives differently,” explains Katelyn Prendergast, a licensed clinical social worker and the program director for Behavioral Health Network’s outpatient program in Easthampton. “Normalizing that for yourself will hopefully help to understand better why, inspire you to take a baby step, or encourage you to talk about it and ask for help.” Typical mental health effects include anxiety, stress, depression, trouble sleeping and difficulty focusing. Physical symptoms can also increase allergy issues if a space becomes too cluttered to clean.
sadness, and isolation, too,” says Katelyn. “[This] will then start to generate more distress in our bodies,” adds Sara. “The more distressed we feel, the more negative thoughts we will have.” According to Sara and Katelyn, certain conditions and life events can also make the clutter and the ability to clear it more difficult. Those with ADHD already struggle with focus and organization. Any trauma, grief or major life changes can also affect where a person focuses their energy. “We often wait for things to settle down or say we will do things once we get through the stressful period, but this can pile up,” notes Katelyn. “To a degree, giving yourself a break is good, but you must be careful with how long that goes on.” A great way to tackle the clutter is to start small and try to stay consistent with that. Spending 30 minutes each day or cleaning out one small space a day can seem slow at the beginning, but it will limit the feeling of being overwhelmed that can come with it.
CONTINUED >
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A cluttered workspace keeps people from being their most productive.
“Try to tell yourself it is okay to tidy up for a half hour and be done, or whatever timeframe you can commit to. Making it reasonable and doable will make it likelier to accomplish,” explains Katelyn. “Ask a friend or family member to help. This can be tough if you feel embarrassed about the space, but a great way to make an overwhelming task feel more doable is to do it with someone who will make it more fun and motivate you.” “Small steps stack up to make big changes,” notes Sara. “Carving out a set time regularly to work on taking care of the clutter and sticking to the set time is a way to start to see actual progress in your spaces.” For more information about Sara’s practice, visit SaraVatore.com. To set up an appointment with Katelyn, call 413.372.9826.
“WHEN OUR ENVIRONMENT IS CLUTTERED, IT CAN OVERWHELM OUR NERVOUS SYSTEM. IT CAN BE HARD TO FEEL MOTIVATED OR TAKE ACTION.” Storage areas can quickly become overwhelming.
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M EN TA L WE LLB E IN G | WE LLN E SS
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39 Carlon Drive Northampton, Massachusetts 01060 JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HA M P TO N
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Girls on the Run Western MA
INSPIRING GIRLS TO BE JOYFUL, HEALTHY, AND CONFIDENT ARTICLE BY LISA QUEENIN
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K I D’S COR N E R | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS
WHAT IS THE BACKGROUND OF GIRLS ON THE RUN? WHERE DID IT GET STARTED? WHEN DID IT ARRIVE ON THE LOCAL SCENE?
Girls on the Run was established in 1996 in Charlotte, North Carolina, with a team of 13 brave girls. The program's growth was remarkable, starting with 26 girls in the next season, then 75, and it continued to expand. In 2000, Girls on the Run International, a 501(c)(3) organization, officially came into existence. Locally, Girls on the Run Western MA, an independent council of Girls on the Run International, was established in 2015. We proudly serve over 1,800 girls annually in grades 3-8 across all four western MA counties, impacting the lives of over 9,000 girls since our inception.
WHAT IS THE MISSION BEHIND GIRLS ON THE RUN?
Girls on the Run inspires girls to be joyful, healthy, and confident through a fun, experience-based curriculum that creatively integrates running. The program fosters the development of critical life skills and behaviors such as managing emotions, resolving conflict, showing empathy, and making decisions. Additionally, it encourages an increase in physical activity. The program concludes with participants positively impacting the community through a service project and completing a celebratory 5K.
IT APPEARS THAT GIRLS ON THE RUN HAS BEEN GROWING. TELL US ABOUT THAT.
Since 2015, Girls on the Run Western MA has experienced consistent growth across all four western MA counties. In the past fall, we had 720 participants at 52 sites with 220 volunteer coaches. This spring, we anticipate more than 80 teams and 300 volunteer coaches. The end-of-season 5K event brings together participants, coaches, run buddies, and families, drawing a crowd of over 3,000 people. We remain committed to serving the whole community, providing financial aid to 65% of our participants and not turning anyone away for financial need.
HOW CAN WE GET INVOLVED IN GIRLS ON THE RUN?
We rely on the support of over 500 volunteers annually to deliver our programs. Volunteers can serve as coaches, board members, or assist during our 5K events. Financial support and in-kind donations from individuals and businesses in the communities we serve are crucial. Donations contribute to financial aid, running shoes for participants in need, coach training, curriculum materials, snacks, t-shirts, and make our 5K events possible. To learn more about participating in Girls on the Run, volunteering, or supporting the organization, visit girlsontherunwesternma.org.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF GIRLS ON THE RUN?
Research indicates that the 3rd to 8th grade period is critical for girls, as self-confidence starts to decline by age 9, and 50% of girls aged 10 to 13 experience bullying. Physical activity levels also decrease significantly during this time, placing them at a higher risk for poor health outcomes. Girls on the Run addresses these challenges by empowering girls to recognize and activate their limitless potential. Trained coaches guide small teams of girls through 10 weeks of lessons that promote social-emotional learning alongside physical activity. The positive impact of the program is evident to families and schools.
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M I X IN G H E A LT H A ND F L AV O R A Delicious Mocktail to Savor Without the Alcohol.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
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H AP PY H OU R | W EL L NESS
ROSEMARY PEAR MOCK TAIL
INGREDIENTS
INSTRUCTIONS
ROSEMARY SIMPLE SYRUP • 1 cup cane sugar • 1 cup water • 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary ROSEMARY PEAR MOCKTAIL • 5 tablespoon pear juice • 1 tablespoon rosemary simple syrup • 1 teaspoon lemon or lime juice • sparkling water to taste
HOW TO MAKE ROSEMARY SIMPLE SYRUP Combine sugar and water in a pot and cook over medium heat. Cook until sugar is completely dissolved. Turn off heat and toss in rosemary sprigs. Cool Completely. HOW TO MAKE ROSEMARY PEAR MOCKTAIL Pour pear juice, rosemary simple syrup, lemon juice, and sparkling water. Add ice and garnish if desired. CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HA M P TO N
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GRAPEFRUIT THYME MOCK TAIL INGREDIENTS THYME SIMPLE SYRUP • 1 cup cane sugar • 1 cup water • 1/3 cup fresh thyme GRAPEFRUIT THYME MOCKTAIL • 3 cups water • 1 cup fresh grapefruit juice • 1/3 cup thyme syrup • Ice
INSTRUCTIONS HOW TO MAKE SIMPLE SYRUP: Combine water and sugar to a pot. Bring to a boil and then simmer for a few minutes. Remove from the heat and add fresh thyme and steep. HOW TO MAKE GRAPEFRUIT THYME MOCKTAIL Rim glass with sugar if desired. Fill glass with ice. Add 3 tablespoons thyme syrup to each glass and fill up with 1/2 cup grapefruit juice and approximately 1 cup sparkling water. Garnish.
W I Z A R D LY BUTTER BEER INGREDIENTS BUTTER BEER • 2 liters of Creme Soda • Tablespoons Butter Extract • 2 Teaspoons Rum Extract CREME TOPPING • 7 ounce container of Marshmallow creme or fluff • 1 1/2 cups whipping cream • 1 teaspoon rum extract
INSTRUCTIONS Add the rum extract and butter extract to the 2 liter of cream soda. Close lid and gently mix. Prepare the topping by combining the marshmallow creme, whipping cream and rum extract. Beat on high for a few minutes until peaks appear. Add a few tablespoons of whipped topping to the bottom of glass. Pour cream soda over topping. Enjoy!
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H AP PY H OU R | WEL L NESS
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A metaphysical gift shop offering beautiful items from a wide array of spiritual backgrounds.
Discover the wisdom of many traditions, stones and gifts with meaning.
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I F YO U A R E READING THIS... S O I S YO U R B E S T C L I E N T.
2 OU T OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.
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A sanctuary for Body, Mind & Spirit
PRIVATE INDOOR & OUTDOOR HOT TUB ROOMS | INFRARED SAUNA AROMATHERAPY STEAM ROOM SKINCARE | WAXING
RELAXATION & THERAPEUTIC MASSAGES
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Book online - individual & couples services available, as well as packages. (413) 256-8827 • 373 Main St, Amherst • elementshottubspa.com Open 7 days a week • 10:30am - 11:00pm
Winter is a great time to feel alive!
Mineral Hills Winery a t G o d a r d’s R e d He n Fa r m
Wines tastings, flights, pours, and more! www.mineralhillswinery.com
the long game
@mineralhillswinery
is a learning and training Center for Longevity. We offer free public lectures, 3-4 wk online courses, and live, online movement classes, dedicated to helping you feel healthier, happier, and more alive! Please join us! Check out the website to see what’s happening in January. thelonggame.coach
Visit us online for hours and events 592 Sylvester Road Florence, MA 01062 413-586-2575 JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HA M P TO N
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Whole-Person Caring
Looking at each individual to provide better care
ARTICLE BY TINA LESNIAK PHOTOGRAPHY BY HANNAH JOSEPHINE PHOTOGRAPHY
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S ELF CA R E | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS
For Robert Abbatiello, owner of Clear Point Acupuncture and Integrative Health Care, patient care is about more than treating just one condition. For him, it’s about treating the whole person, not only with treatments but also listening and being there for them. “The whole person is really my focus,” explains Robert. “Everything is important because it plays into how a person heals themselves.” Robert’s practice offers many services: acupuncture, herbs, homeopathy, muscle testing and nutrition counseling. One of his primary focuses is the treatment of chronic Lyme Disease. The tricky nature of the disease requires a multi-prong approach, which
Robert can provide because of his wide breadth of knowledge and experience. “The big thing about Lyme Disease is that it hides from the immune system and diagnosis as well,” explains Robert. “You have to educate the immune system and the patient that a lab test is not as definitive as one would hope.” The immune system can be activated using homeopathic remedies, specifically formulated for each person, to begin clearing the infections. This, along with herbs and
supplements, gives the body the tools to fight the disease. Robert encourages the patient with things like exercise, a healthy lifestyle and nutrition so they can actively participate in their healing process. “If someone can’t do one of those things, because that’s what’s being affected, then it’s my job to help them get there,” says Robert. Patients are seen in one-hour time slots and charged for the time, regardless of the services provided. The first 15 minutes of each appointment are generally spent talking to his patients so that Robert can get a sense of the whole person, not just the problem that brought them into the practice. CONTINUED >
Left Page: Robert Abbatiello, owner of Clear Point Acupuncture and Integrative Health Care This Page, Top: The decor is designed to promote well-being. This Page, Bottom: Robert offers a wide range of treatments. JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HA M P TO N
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Y THING IS R E V IMP “E SE IT PLA OR U A C YS I T BE A N N T N H E A O T L S S O R T H E EM HOW P A SE LVE S.”
A peaceful atmosphere promotes healing.
“I like to be involved with people,” explains Robert. “That 15-minute conversation provides information that I wouldn’t normally get from a form.” Because of his wide range of services and experience, 38 years in acupuncture alone, Robert often sees patients who haven’t had success elsewhere. “In my life, I fix things at home. That’s what I like to do,” says Robert. It is the same with patients. “I get results when other people haven’t. There’s a synergy between all the different modalities that I use. I believe a multi-faceted approach is essential for obtaining the best results.”
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S ELF CA R E | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS
Robert offers cleanse programs to rid the body of its toxins. The ClearPoint 11-Day Healing Cleanse Program is a combination of juices, dietary and nutritional protocols and homeopathy, among others, that support the body’s own capacity to eliminate toxins, while nourishing cells. Another of his treatments, NeuroClear, is a trauma/emotional release technique developed by Robert himself. It focuses on dealing with original trauma and/or other unresolved traumas and clearing them. The process is used to resolve anxiety, manage post-traumatic stress disorder and release old thoughts and emotional patterns. This tremendous range of treatments allows patients to receive many different treatments without going to multiple places for each modality. The work goes far beyond simple acupuncture or Chinese herbal medicine for Robert. He truly wants to support the person and form long-lasting relationships with them. “I have people I’ve been seeing for decades and now I see their kids and grandkids,” notes Robert. “I see generations of families.” Robert hopes to continue working with his patients for years to come, working for a total of 50 years. “I love my job, so I love coming to work,” he says. Clear Point Acupuncture and Integrative Health Care is located at 190 Nonotuck St., Suite 107, in Florence. The practice does not accept insurance. For more information, call Robert at 413.587.0777.
Take the Worry
OUT OF WINTER
If you are feeling anxious about continued social isolation, winter storms that could keep you inside the house, unpredictable heating bills, or the idea of shoveling your walkway, consider a move to Armbrook Village. Residents enjoy the privacy and independence of their own apartment home nestled within a vibrant, supportive and friendly community. We offer each resident a tailored mix of wellness, support and care options to meet needs now and as they change. Make the move to Armbrook Village! Our lively community can be the perfect cure for the winter blues. Call or text to schedule a tour! INDEPENDENT & ASSISTED LIVING | COMPASS MEMORY SUPPORT 551 North Road Westfield, MA | 413.568.0000 | ArmbrookVillage.com
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JANUARY 2024
events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S
JA NUA RY 6T H
Grace – Jeff Buckley Tribute BOMBYX Center for Arts & Equity, 130 Pine St, Florence | 7:00 PM GRACE – Jeff Buckley Tribute was created to give his fans an opportunity to reclaim the live experience of Jeff's music. The goal is to honor his memory by performing the music as close to its original format as possible. 2024 will mark the 30th Anniversary of the release of GRACE. For more information, visit bombyx.live. JA NUA RY 6T H , 2 0 T H & 2 7TH
Winter Birds Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary, 127 Combs Rd, Easthampton A 3-session series on the wintering birds found in the Connecticut River Valley. Winter is the ideal time to learn to recognize the birds that utilize bird feeders since there are fewer species than at other times of year and they can be seen more easily at feeders and when the trees are bare. For more information, visit massaudubon.org. JA NUA RY 7 T H A N D 2 1ST
Easthampton Farmers Market Eastworks, 116 Pleasant St, Easthampton | 10:00 AM The Easthampton Farmers’ Market was created as a way to sell fresh vegetables and fruits to the community, but it also brings farmers and makers from all over the Pioneer Valley and Western Massachusetts to Easthampton! The goal is that all vendors will grow, raise, produce, or create their products themselves, or they will provide unique products that represent other local farmers. JA NUA RY 1 1 T H
Northampton Literary Society Writing Meet-Up Forbes Library, 20 West St, Northampton | 6:00 PM Light socializing, low-stakes sharing, and informal critique - as well as some time writing, of course! The group welcomes writers of all genres and levels of experience, starting each meeting with a friendly check-in, followed by a 15-20 minute writing prompt. After an optional share-out, writers are welcome to hang out and work. For more information, visit Northampton Literary Society's social media pages. JA NUA RY 2 1 ST
Art Gallery Listening Session Northampton Center for the Arts, 33 Hawley St, Northampton | 1:00 PM In Jan. 2024, after the final construction phase is complete, the center will be stewarding a brand-new art gallery! We envision this gallery as an accessible and welcoming space partially programmed by a committee that includes community members. What do you want to see in an art gallery? For more information, visit nohoarts.org. JA NUA RY 2 6T H
ETC Presents Harvey Fierstein's Torch Song CitySpace, 43 Main St, Easthampton | 7:30 PM The life of Arnold Beckoff, a torch song-singing, Jewish person living in New York City, is dramatized over the span of the late 1970s and 1980s. Told with a likable, human voice and considerable humor, Torch Song follows Arnold’s odyssey to find happiness in New York. For more information, visit Easthampton Theater Company's social media pages.
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Savor the Flavor ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MADELINE LEBLANC
A guide to find good local smoothies Step into the New Year with a burst of flavor by indulging in vibrant smoothies. Loaded with essential vitamins and antioxidants, these refreshing blends embody renewal and well-being. Make a resolution to sip your way to health, by combining colorful fruits and nutrient-rich ingredients. Whether you’re craving a tropical twist or a green boost, these establishments offer a delightful array of options!
Magic Blend Agawam, MA
Sunflower Smoothie Cafe Southwick, MA
My Main Squeeze East Longmeadow, MA
Cellf Juices Springfield, MA
Kwench Juice Cafe Amherst, MA
Nourish Wellness Cafe Northampton, MA
For more local food inspo, head to my Instagram page @hellofoodreviews. Caramel Apple Cider Smoothies from Sunflower Smoothie Cafe
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H OT SP OT | FO O D + BEVERAGE
Happy New Year Thank you for your patronage! Fresh produce supporting local farmers, deli salads made in house, old-fashioned butchers slicing meat to order.
We’re your family owned & operated small business! Since 1947 413-527-3819 | 31 College Hwy, Southampton Visit us on Facebook!
EXECUTIVE EDUCATION
Applied Decision-Making Frameworks A business simulation and leadership immersion for emerging and mid-level executives.
LEARN MORE AND REGISTER AT EXECED.SMITH.EDU
A dynamic hybrid program for people leaders, project managers, and newly promoted executives to gain essential technical business skills.
April 18 - 19, 2024
Smith College | Northampton, MA JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/N ORT HA M P TO N
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N E W YE AR’S R E S O LU T I O N . . . G O AL L- E L E C T R I C !
T H E A L L- E L E C T R I C F O R D M U S TA N G M A C H - E
968 Bridge Road,
Northampton
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413.584.2400
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fordofnorthampton.com