Issuu

Health and Wellness

JA N UA RY 2 02 6

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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- what an adventure! 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 @SHORTPUMPLIFESTYLE

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 Short Pump City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Short Pump area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/SHORTPUMP

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

PHOTO BY MAX BVP ON UNSPLASH.COM

Too Much of a Good Thing… …can do terrible things to your waistline. Fortunately, humans have a more robust digestive system. Dogs do not, and feeding them the wrong thing or too much of a good thing can hurt them and lead to health issues. Health issues can lead to behavioral issues, etc., etc. If you’re unsure whether your pup’s bad habits are related to diet or just a lack of training, we can help you determine what’s going on. And if you simply need help with proper techniques that reward your dog for good behavior, call us today. We will make sure Fido begins his new year on the right paw.

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

12 08

Featured

08 12 18 6

Virginia Eye Institute

Cutting Edge Technology with a Strong Vision for Wellness

On the Cover

Departments

Homemade Soup and Bread.

Lifestyle Letter

Must See BEAUTY

Pet Friendly ARTS + CULTURE

Eat Right FOOD + BEVERAGE

Chef ’s Selection FOOD + BEVERAGE

Happy Hour FOOD + BEVERAGE

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E

Healthy Lifestyle HEALTH + WELLNESS

Get Active FITNESS

Pet of the Month 2026!

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

Soup and Bread: A Perfect Marriage Hearty food nourishes the body during cold winter months

Photography: Olivie Strauss

Fun

Little Luxuries That Spark

Undeniable

Confidence

Jewelry, Beauty, Scarves, Handbags

Come visit us Sassy Jones Flagship Store Short Pump Town Center, 2nd Floor Store Hours: Sunday 11am - 6pm Mon. - Thurs., 11am - 8pm Fri. - Sat. 10am - 8pm

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/S HO RT P UM P

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/S HO RT P UM P

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/shortpump 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.

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smart

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

Nutrient-Rich Dessert To The Rescue ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN

EAT R IGH T | FO O D + BEVE RAGE

Combine: • 1 cup wheat flour • 2 cups cooked quinoa, cooled • 2 cups oats • 2/3 cup of your choice of chopped nuts • 1 teaspoon cinnamon • 1 teaspoon baking soda • 2 tablespoons chia seeds • 2/3 cup raisins • Optional: chocolate chips as desired • Optional: add additional seeds or nuts on hand such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc. Notes: Boil quinoa at a 2:1 water to rice ratio. For estimating, 1/3 cup of uncooked quinoa yields 1 cup cooked quinoa. Add this mixture slowly to combine: • 2 eggs • 2/3 cup peanut butter, almond butter or sunflower butter • 1/2 cup honey • 1 banana • 1 teaspoon vanilla Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes, or until when the edges get golden brown. Bake in a 9x13-inch glass dish. After they cool, slice and enjoy. Keep them covered to maintain freshness.

Quinoa BREAKFAST Bars

This recipe is a classic favorite. If you cut the bars into 16 pieces, they are around 270 calories each. They are very filling, packed with healthy goodies and taste, oh so delicious. If you can’t finish them yourself (it makes a lot!), bring samples along to your next workout class to share the love. Your accountability group will be asking you for the recipe! These come in handy for a quick breakfast on-the-go or an afternoon snack. You’ll want to taste these out of the oven once they cool a bit... simply scrumptious.

CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/S HO RT P UM P

EAT R IGH T | FO O D + BEVE RAGE

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

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

Protein COOKIE DOUGH Bites

Frozen PEANUT BUTTER Bites

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

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ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY TYLER SHANE

SOUP AND BREAD:

A PERFECT MARRIAGE

Hearty food nourishes the body during cold winter months

C HE F ’S SE LE CT ION | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

What if we chose connection — cooking seasonal meals and allowing ourselves to pause to truly enjoy our food? Maybe cheesy bread could be served without the side of guilt.

As we continue to embrace the cold weather, we may find ourselves craving heavier and grounding foods as we retreat into hibernation. This change in appetite reflects our body’s desire to align with the cycles of nature. Moving into the New Year, it can be common to place more discipline or restrictions on our eating habits. But what if instead of dieting, we nourished ourselves by choosing to support the ebb and flow of our body’s seasons? What if we chose connection — cooking seasonal meals and allowing ourselves to pause to truly enjoy our food? Maybe cheesy bread could be served without the side of guilt. This Italian wedding soup recipe is simple in its approach, but the result is a hearty and brothy dish. Chunky meats and vegetables add texture to the rich, savory broth making it the ideal meal to help you retreat from the cold temperatures. The Hasselback bread loaf is a straightforward, melty wonder and the perfect vessel for sopping up any leftover broth and goodies in your soup bowl. Together, the soup and cheesy bread make for a well-rounded meal to ground you this season, with a little indulgence. CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/S HO RT P UM P

DIRECTIONS

HASSELBACK MOZZARELLA BREAD LOAF

Preheat oven to 350 F.

2. Cut foil that is 3 times the length of the bread loaf and lay flat on countertop. 3. Place bread loaf parallel to the length of the foil. 4. With a serrated knife, cut bread in ¾ in. slices, making sure not to cut all the way through. 5. Melt butter in a bowl. Add garlic and seasonings. Stir to incorporate. 6. With a pastry brush, coat the slices of bread with butter mixture. Be generous with your butter! If you have leftover butter, pour the rest over the

INGREDIENTS • 1 Italian bread loaf • 1 cup butter • 4-5 garlic cloves, minced

entire loaf. 7. Grab handfuls of mozzarella cheese and stuff in between each slice. 8. Cover the bread loaf with foil and place in oven.

• 1 tsp kosher salt

Bake for 20 minutes, uncovering the foil for

• 2 tsp dried oregano

the last 5 minutes until the top of the bread is

• 8 oz. bag of shredded mozzarella cheese

golden brown.

C HE F ’S SE LE CT ION | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

INGREDIENTS

ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP RECIPE 4 Servings

• 1 lb. fresh or frozen pre-made meatballs • ½ cup carrots, diced small • ½ cup celery, diced small • 1 cup onions, diced small • 3 garlic cloves, minced • 1 bay leaf • 2 tbsp butter • 2 tbsp cooking oil • 48 oz low sodium chicken broth • ½ cup orzo pasta (or any small, short noodle) • 1 tbsp kosher salt • 1 tsp fresh ground black pepper • 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped roughly • 1 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley

DIRECTIONS 1.

Whether freshly baked or cooked from frozen, prepare your meatballs and set aside. Meatballs can be prepared ahead of time and kept in the fridge.

2. Bring a medium-sized pot to medium heat. Add oil and butter. 3. Add vegetables to the pot and sweat until onions are translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir occasionally. 4. Add the bay leaf, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to vegetables. Turn heat to medium-high. 5. Bring broth mixture to a rolling boil for five minutes. With tongs, add meatballs to the boiling broth. 6. Add orzo to the broth, stirring continuously to make sure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan. 7. Continue to cook the pasta for 6-7 minutes. Taste test to make sure pasta is al dente. 8. Throw the fresh herbs into the soup and add salt and pepper to taste. 9. Serve immediately.

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RESOLVE TO

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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

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

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 tablespoons 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 into a glass. Add ice and garnish if desired. CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/S HO RT P UM P

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 in 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 • 2 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 liters 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!

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

CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/S HO RT P UM P

SPICED EGGNOG

INGREDIENTS

INSTRUCTIONS

• • • • •

Pour milk, sugar, vanilla and spices into a shaker and shake vigorously until blended and foamy. Pour into a glass and garnish if desired.

3 cups milk of choice 1/2 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg cinnamon to taste H AP PY H OU R | FO O D + BE VE RAGE

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ARTICLE BY SYBIL VELARDE

whirled

PEAS!

Vegetable juice is a great addition to your diet especially if you want to lose weight, gain energy, and feel great. Sometimes life gets too busy and you don’t have the time to cook healthy meals. Fall in love with leafy greens, fresh fruit, nut milks, and chia seeds all combined to make a quick, easy, and delicious contribution to your day.

Veggies And Blenders Bring The Health We Need

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

E N E RGY E L I X I R INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

• • • • •

Mix all together in a blender until smooth.

1 beet 1 carrot 1 celery stalk 1-2 inches of ginger 1 lemon

BLU E BE R RY M I N T INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries • 1 fresh or frozen banana • 1 cup spinach • 1 cup water • 1/4 cup fresh mint • 1 cup ice if using fresh fruit

Mix all together in a blender until smooth.

GR E E N SMOOT H I E DIRECTIONS:

INGREDIENTS: • 2 cups cucumber • 1 cup Granny Smith apples • 1 cup celery • 1 handful baby spinach • 1/3 cup fresh pineapple (for a sweet smoothie or zest and juice of a small lime for tart smoothie) • 1 sprig parsley

Mix all together in a blender until smooth.

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/S HO RT P UM P

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

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

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

GET INSPIRED E AT & D R I N K SHOP LOCAL “I believe that true innovation requires a commitment to constructive self-criticism to continuously raise the standard of care.”

YOU R D IGITAL D ESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING

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Good news happening right in your neighborhood.

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.

Inspiration for your best local life.

Exclusive giveaways.

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.

Hidden gem alert!

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SCAN TO CONNECT

SHORT PUMP CITY LIFESTYLE™ JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/S HO RT P UM P

POWER POSES

ARTICLE BY CAITLIN AGNEW PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIFE N LIGHT Brett Larkin, founder of Uplifted Yoga, teaches yoga designed to ignite a personal transformation. A trailblazer in the online yoga space, her award-winning YouTube channel has over 500,000 subscribers. Here she shares power poses to incorporate into your practice for a confident and powerful year.

W I L D T H I N G ( C A M AT K A R A S A N A ) Take up space. Get fierce. Practice stretching into the fullest expression of who you are.

BRIDGE POSE ( S E T U B A N D H A S A R VA N G A S A N A ) Project radiance up and out from your heart while strengthening your back body.

C A N YO G A H E L P B U I L D SELF-ESTEEM? Confidence is all about feeling good in your own skin, and practicing yoga makes you more aware of your body. You are tuning into your breath, your feelings, and your true vision. Physically it strengthens you. Mentally it helps you focus. With improved posture, you stand taller; and with a clear mind you are more prepared and confident to take on what comes your way.

CAMEL POSE (USTRASANA) Open your heart for increased confidence and counteract “text neck” while you’re at it.

G E T ACT IV E | FI TNES S

For more info about Brett and her online training options for all levels, go to BrettLarkin.com.

Home For The Holidays

Pavers • Retaining Walls • Pool Decking Lighting • Maintenance • Irrigation • TreeCare Drainage Systems • Invisible Dog Fences

NEW YEAR NEW HOME? Y O U R B E S T M OV E Y E T S TA RT S I N 2 0 2 6 . C O N TAC T 8 0 4 . N E W. H O M E TO D AY !

#1 IN RICHMOND

# 1 I N V I RG I N I A

# 3 I N T H E N AT I O N

VOT E D TO P 5 B E S T I N R I C H M O N D

Happy New Year!

L e t’s O p e n Ne w D o o r s To g e t h e r i n 2 0 2 6 M O RTG AG E F I N A N C I N G O F F E R E D B Y C & F S E L E C T N M L S # 1 8 2 9 9 3 1 ( n m l s c o n s u m e ra c c e s s . o r g ) | 1 Pa r k W C i r c l e , M i d l o t h i a n , VA 2 3 1 1 4 “ R e s t r i c t i o n s a p p l y. Th i s i s a n a d v e r t i s e m e n t a n d n o t a c o m m i t m e n t t o l e n d . C & F S e l e c t L LC i s a n a ﬃ l i a t e d l e n d e r f o r Th e Ye a t m a n G r o u p .

G e t St a r t e d No w !