Issuu

The Health & Wellness Issue H E A LTH + W E LLN E S S

WE H E AD TO SHAPE IT U P FITN ESS WH ERE YOU GET SO MU CH M O RE THAN A GRE AT WO RKOUT

JA N UA RY 2 02 6

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

A New Year

January 2026 PUBLISHER

The start of a new year is often filled with excitement and a sense of renewal. It’s a time to set new goals, embrace fresh opportunities, and dream about the year ahead. For many, though, January can also bring a sense of pressure — a reminder of resolutions left unfulfilled or the weight of expectations. This issue of Waconia City Lifestyle was crafted with the goal of offering something different: inspiration for long-term, sustainable improvements in physical, emotional, and mental health. So many times in the past, I’m so eager to set New Year's resolutions that they turn out to be far too aggressive — go to the health club every day, refine my diet to eat healthy, and stop drinking, set aside time each day for reflection and meditation. What I’ve learned is that setting goals too aggressively is a sure-fire way to fail. While it may not work for everyone, I’ve found that setting realistic goals that are truly attainable is a blueprint for success. Exercise more, but don’t beat yourself up for sleeping in one day. Eat healthy and drink less, but still allow yourself a night or two a week to indulge. Life isn’t about perfection; it’s about consistency. Whether it’s in business, health, or relationships, it’s not what you do occasionally that makes the difference — it’s what you do most of the time. Consider this: you wouldn’t go on vacation every day, but planning a couple of trips each year is a realistic and restorative goal. Similarly, indulging in a rich dessert from Lola’s or Winchester & Rye isn’t an everyday event, but it’s a delicious treat now and then. This year, focus on small, consistent actions that lead to a more balanced and fulfilling life. Join a fitness class, carve out moments for rest, and don’t forget to savor life’s pleasures. It’s the “most of the time” choices that shape our lives. Here’s to a healthy, happy new year — we’re rooting for you!

Matt Shaeffer matt.shaeffer@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Lauren Beaubaire lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily McKeever, Angela Broockerd C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Maria Claire Media, Shea Jurgensen, Nicole Jean Photographic Artist, Vick Photography, Janie Jones

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Zach Miller LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

M AT T S H A E F F E R , P U B L I S H E R @ WAC O N I AC I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Waconia City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Waconia 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 Waconia City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

REAL ESTATE EXPERTS

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

28 24

14 Featured

14 20 24 28 6

A Heart of Health

At Shape It Up Fitness, you’ll get so much more than a great workout; you’ll discover a place that feels like home

The Beauty of Real Wellness

Heartfelt care and medical expertise at Something To Crow About

Comfort for Your Pet. Peace of Mind for You.

Zoomin Groomin delivers wellness-focused grooming right to your doorstep

Worry-Free Water

The life-changing impact of better water at home with Haferman Water Conditioning

20 On the Cover

Departments

There’s a modern yet quaint boutique fitness center nestled on picturesque Main Street in Waconia, where movement meets style and athleisure is basically the dress code. Welcome to Shape It Up Fitness.

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Get Active HEALTH + WELLNESS

Self Care HEALTH + WELLNESS

Pet Care HEALTH + WELLNESS

Healthy Lifestyle HOME + DESIGN

Inspired By HEALTH + WELLNESS

Events

Photography: Maria Claire Media

CUSTOM HOMES & REMODELING

JANUARY 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

It was a fun-filled day of shopping, sipping, and dining across Waconia at this year’s 19th Annual D.E.A.R. Day! (Divas Enjoying Awesome Retail) Everyone came out in their best deer-hunting orange attire to score great deals all around town. Photography by Nicole Jean Photographic Artist

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JANUARY 2026

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

Safari Island Community Center Celebrates its Grand Reopening! On November 8th, Safari Island Community Center celebrated its grand reopening with a day of workouts, lunch and treats, games, demonstrations, a ribbon cutting, and more! Members and daily visitors can now enjoy an updated weight room–complete with new equipment and a revitalized lobby! Congratulations to this community hub that has been connecting people and inspiring health in Waconia for 24 years.

Photography by Waconia Chamber of Commerce

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Crusher Fitness + Health: A New Look, Same Strong Goals October brought the grand reopening of the newly renovated Crusher Fitness + Health! With the intention of bringing a stronger, healthier Waconia together, Crusher looks at this next chapter as a big step towards spreading the spirit of their mission and welcoming even more Crushers through the door. During their big celebration, the community was treated to tours, family fun, giveaways, and meet-andgreets with the gym’s coaching team. Learn more at https://crushercrossfit.com/

Photography by Waconia Chamber of Commerce

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The Backyard Nature Nook Opens in Waconia The Backyard Nature Nook, a bird-lovers' haven upstairs from Paws Inn Pet Essentials, opened its doors in November. This exciting addition to the community will offer bird seed, feeders, suet, fun gifts, and more for the nature enthusiast in your life. The party included free bird seed with every purchase, “Bounce Back Bucks,” and a Backyard Nature Nook logo sticker with every purchase. Stop in to see them soon! 201 West 1st Street in Waconia.

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AT SHAPE IT UP FITNESS, YOU’LL GET SO MUCH MORE THAN A GREAT WORKOUT; YOU’LL DISCOVER A PLACE THAT FEELS LIKE HOME

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA CLAIRE MEDIA

A HEART

Megan VanEyll, owner of Shape It Up Fitness

OF HE A LT H There’s a modern yet quaint boutique fitness center nestled on picturesque Main Street in Waconia, where movement meets style and athleisure is basically the dress code. It’s where inspiration and energy buzz as guests focus on feeling their best in a judgment-free zone. At Shape It Up Fitness, you’re more than a member, you’re part of a family — one that meets you right where you are,

G E T ACT IV E | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

cheering you on every step of the way. There’s community, there’s fun, and if you don’t want “Happy Birthday to You” playing when you step inside on your special day, well, sorry — it’s happening. Megan VanEyll, owner of Shape It Up Fitness, says her dream was born out of her passion for fitness and her desire to help women feel amazing and have fun while doing it. “Fitness changed my life in all forms, from mindset and energy to increased confidence and self-love,” she shares. Megan built her business around friendship and support — and, of course, an amazing workout. “Showing up is all we ask. Sitting on your mat and soaking up the energy of the people around you is just fine!” Other days, she says, push as hard as you can and be the inspiration for your neighbor. The studio offers a wide variety of classes, including strength, cardio, Pilates, barre, yoga, and dance. “Our goal is to give our members a dynamic schedule that fits every fitness level and style. Our classes are truly for everyone,” she stresses. With almost 20 years under her belt, inspiring people to move their bodies, Megan has learned that not everyone wants to or can do what’s asked of them in a group fitness class, so

“FITNESS CHANGED MY LIFE IN ALL FORMS, FROM MINDSET AND ENERGY TO INCREASED CONFIDENCE AND SEL F-L OV E.”

CONTINUED >

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

modifications and other options are always offered. If you’re new to Shape It Up (you get a free week to give them a try!), you’ll be connected with a few studio veterans. The class sizes are purposely on the smaller side to ensure everyone gets a warm welcome and feels comfortable. “Our instructors show up to hold space, provide energy, conversation, and fun; the workout is secondary.” One of the main reasons the experience at Shape It Up differs from that of a larger gym is its personal touches and Megan’s love for Waconia. “We love having a business in town so we can help give back to other organizations. We’re part of the Waconia Chamber as well as the Waconia Retail Committee.” This summer, Megan and her team will host the 3rd Annual Charity Golf Scramble, with proceeds benefiting the Waconia DandyLions — an organization dedicated to promoting health and wellness for families in the community. Shape It Up also takes part in numerous school fundraisers and provides donations and prizes for nearly every silent auction that sends a request. “This past year, my husband and I were Waconia’s

G E T ACT IV E | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

Star Couple for 2B Continued’s Dancing Like the Stars fundraiser, and we raised over $35,000 for that charity. Giving back is a blessing, and we are happy to do it!” As the New Year kicks off, Megan has some advice for those starting their fitness journey. “Always start small, get consistent with those little changes, and then build from there.” For example, she says start with two group fitness classes per week, commit to

“OUR GOAL IS TO GIVE OUR MEMBERS A DYNAMIC SCHEDULE THAT FITS EVERY FITNESS LEVEL AND STYLE. OUR INSTRUCTORS SHOW UP TO HOLD S PA C E , P R O V IDE E NE R GY, C ON V E R S AT ION, A ND F UN; T HE W OR KOU T I S S E C OND A R Y.” showing up, and be sure to plan other activities around them. After those two classes become a habit (21 days or more, she explains), then add another class or something else to your wellness routine. As far as nutrition for the New Year, Megan’s basic tips are to focus on drinking more water, adding protein to each meal, and loading up on vegetables. “Don’t overthink it. Less is always more when it comes to goal setting. Also, hiring a personal trainer to support you is a great idea (me!).”

In addition to expanding the retail side of the business, 2026 will find Megan looking to bring on another personal trainer and continuing to keep the fitness classes going strong. “We will also be adding more workshops for women’s health and guest speakers to help us all stay happy, healthy, and educated.” And that’s Shape It Up’s heart in a nutshell — empowering others toward healthier, happier, and more fulfilling lives. shapeitupfitnessmn.com

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the beauty of real wellness Heartfelt care and medical expertise at Something To Crow About

If you find yourself feeling relaxed and rejuvenated, saying to yourself, “Gosh, I haven’t looked or felt this great in ages”, you might be fresh from a tropical getaway. Or you might be a client at Something To Crow About. This premier medspa, situated on Crow River in Hutchinson, offers evidence-based, affordable care with authenticity and a genuine love for the community it serves. Clinic owner Jenny Christensen first opened her doors as a private, cash-based primary care clinic, focused on helping people feel more confident and free from the guilt that can sometimes come with investing in self-care. From

these beginnings to where she is today, it’s truly something to crow about. “While the numbers have to work and we have to pay our bills at the end of the day, we don’t need to get rich off our patients just because we might be able to,” Jenny shares. What’s most rewarding to her is providing services at a fair price and seeing people leave feeling their absolute best — not charging more simply because they can. “We also believe in being ourselves. We don’t wear fancy business clothes or sterile scrubs. We’re the same as everyone else, come from the same communities, and

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

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

Jenny Christensen, owner of Something To Crow About

have the same challenges.” With this generous spirit, it’s no surprise that Jenny enjoys giving back to the community and donating services and funds to various causes. This unwavering tenacity for excellence is also reflected in her dedication to offering the latest advancements in care. “I’ve attended eight conferences around the world in the last year to make sure our skills are honed and we are up to date on the most current techniques and products.” One such offering that’s resonating with many clients right now is their medical weight-loss program. When she worked in a larger health system, Jenny says getting help with weight was a very long, arduous, and sometimes shameful experience. “It took so much for someone to come in and admit they needed help, then we’d throw questionnaires, homework, numerous labs, and long waits at them.” That’s not the vibe at Something To Crow About. Here you start with a 30-minute consultation with RN Stephanie Lowe, either in the clinic or virtually. She’ll review your medical history and talk about the medication, how it works, and what to expect. If you don’t have up-to-date labs, these can also be done in the clinic, or they’ll supply a kit that you bring to your local lab for draws. Medication is mailed out once a month, and clients stay in close contact with Stephanie for any questions or follow-up. Jenny acknowledges that while we all know we should eat better and exercise more, if that were all it took, then a little over a third of the country’s population wouldn’t be classified as obese. “Having previously weighed 350 pounds myself, I understand the implicit (or often overt) bias that exists when just walking into a clinic as an obese person, let alone asking for help. That isn’t part of our culture here; here you are one of us. We’ve all been off and on the wagon and gained and lost the weight more times than we can count.” They’re not going to tell you to count calories or eliminate entire food groups, or go to the gym every day; instead, they offer a medical plan that helps make healthy living more attainable and sustainable. You take the CONTINUED >

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

medication once a week, let it go to work for you, and the results, Jenny says, are life-changing. With an ever-expanding list of services — including aesthetics, primary care, hormone optimizations, and more — it’s no wonder they already feel they’ve outgrown the 2,500 square foot space they built just two years ago. “We’ve grown rapidly and added so many services in such a short time that we’re not currently looking to bring on anything new right now, but rather to continue to refine the services we already offer.”

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

Jenny explains that there’s a lot of excitement ahead in the field with constant advancements in the GLP1 world that will continue to reshape the world as we know it. She also shares that they’re just at the tip of the iceberg in relation to regenerative aesthetics. “It’s a great time to start incorporating aesthetics into your vocabulary!” Ready to start off the new year feeling your best? Connect with Jenny and the Something To Crow About team at somethingtocrowabouthealth.com

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Suz Stiyer, owner of Zoomin Groomin Carver County

COMFORT FOR YOUR PET. PEACE OF MIND FOR YOU. Zoomin Groomin delivers wellness-focused grooming right to your doorstep ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

P E T CA R E | HEALTH + W ELLN E SS

Our pets are so much more than an animal who wanders home now and then and rarely gets a table scrap; they’re our constant companions, our bonus — sometimes drooling — family members, and they fill every corner of our hearts. They deserve only the best, so when it’s time for a treat-your-pet kind of

day (which is basically every day), the best is just what they’ll get with Zoomin Groomin. As the owner of Zoomin Groomin Carver County, Suz Stiyer combines her love of animals with a passion for helping pet families feel supported and cared for, creating an experience you won’t just find anywhere.

THE STORY

“Given my love for animals, I knew I couldn’t go wrong with a franchise related to them. When I met with Zoomin Groomin, I was struck by the positivity of the team,” Suz shares. She was also impressed by their thorough and well-thought-out processes as well as their ongoing efforts to improve their systems, products, and vendors. While there are plenty of grooming options in our community, if you want your fur baby’s well-being, safety, and unique needs to be top of mind, then you’ll definitely want to zoom over and give Suz a call. “We adjust our pace to suit each pet, ensuring they can take breaks whenever necessary. We understand that they’re not just a pet but an irreplaceable part of the family who deserve the utmost love and care.” And if you, as the pet owner, want advice on how to prepare your pet for their appointment, or recommendations on how to keep them fresh in between appointments, they’re here to help with that as well.

THE EXPERIENCE

Suz and her team provide mobile grooming services in Carver, Chaska, Cologne, Hamburg, Mayer, New Germany, Norwood Young America, Victoria, Waconia, Watertown, and Young America. They also cover certain parts of Hennepin County, specifically Chanhassen and St.Bonifacius, as well as the 55331 area code, which includes Excelsior, Minnetrista, and Shorewood. In addition to serving a broad range of communities and pets of all ages and sizes — from babies to seniors and small to extra-large — the process from tip to tail is just as impressive. “Your groomer will call or text with their estimated time of arrival, and once on-site, they’ll either park in your driveway or on the street in front of your home.” The process begins with a discussion about your grooming expectations, and from there, your four-legged pal will be taken to the grooming van for a truly spa-like treatment. Another bonus of mobile grooming is that you avoid the hassle of packing up your pet in the car — and perhaps dealing with anxiety during the trip — and there’s no need to pick up afterward either. All you need to do is answer your door. Because they’re not exposed to the busy atmosphere of a traditional salon or the noise of other animals, Zoomin Groomin creates a much less stressful environment. “Your pet will receive one-on-one attention from our groomer, which helps to build a trusting relationship. Unlike some salons that operate like an assembly line, where one person handles the bath, another does the drying, and yet another takes care of the grooming, our service prioritizes personalized care.”

“We adjust our pace to suit each pet, ensuring they can take breaks whenever necessary. We understand that they’re not just a pet but an irreplaceable part of the family who deserve the utmost love and care.”

This approach is ideal for all animals, especially for the anxious, fearful, and elderly, and it also gives pet owners the peace of mind knowing their precious cargo is being cared for in a comfortable, familiar environment. “We take the time the dog or cat needs and go at their pace, allowing for breaks when necessary.” The team’s goal is to help the animal feel more comfortable by using positive reinforcement and communicating with them throughout the entire process. “Hugs and kisses also go a long way!” Suz adds.

THE WELL-GROOMED LIFE

Zoomin Groomin is continually looking for ways to be more environmentally friendly and sustainable. Their products and services not only keep your pet safe and cared for, but also conserve water and protect our environment — their state-of-theart mobile grooming van reduces water usage by up to 90%. And while they’re committed to the planet, Suz also emphasizes the importance of caring for your pet’s overall health, which includes regular grooming to maintain healthy skin, feet, nails, teeth, and ears. Consistent cleaning helps prevent infections, allergies, dry patches, rashes, and nail problems. She also points out that grooming provides an opportunity to monitor your pet’s entire body; groomers can often spot issues you might miss and can alert you if something warrants a visit to your veterinarian. Learn more and to make your Zoomin Groomin appointment, head to zoomingroomin.com/location/pet-groomer-sw-carver-mn/ and fill out their Intake Form.

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FOCUS ON YOUR FUTURE IN 2026!

2026

Happy New Year

Let's get you where your goals are set.

Market trends shift, but keep your goals front and center. As we step into 2026, let's position you for success. Whether that means buying, selling, or simply exploring options, I’m here to help plan YOUR NEW YEAR!

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Worry-Free

WA T E R

Photography by Shea Jurgensen

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHEA JURGENSEN AND VICK PHOTOGRAPHY

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | HOME + D E SIGN

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

Water. It’s one of the few things we simply can’t live without. The human body can only survive three days without it, and every cell in our system depends on it, which means it isn’t a luxury but a necessity. So, why would you gamble with the quality of something so essential to your everyday life? That’s where having the right experts in your corner matters, and a team like Haferman Water Conditioning makes all the difference.

Photography by Vick Photography

Photography by Vick Photography Photography by Shea Jurgensen

Photography by Vick Photography

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | HOME + D E SIGN

The water experts at this full-service water treatment company put the pro in professionals, offering excellent customer service, precision installation by licensed installers, use of proven, reliable products, and a rich company history — all to ensure your comfort and safety down to the last drop. Paul Nowak, Customer Experience and Marketing Manager, puts it plainly: they worry about your water so you don’t have to.

If your water leaves stains, looks unpleasant, or smells, there’s far less motivation to get in your eight cups of water a day or throw your favorite outfit in the wash and cross your fingers it won’t come out ruined. If you do experience hard water, iron, manganese stains, or water that smells like a pool or rotten eggs, luckily, Paul assures that those are just cosmetic. “We can fix it,” Paul affirms. And you’ll want to let the Haferman team do what they do best. Because between soap, detergents, face wash, and moisturizers, it can feel like you’re constantly cycling through products, trying to find one that actually “works.” Paul adds, “Not to mention the effort and time you’ll need to put in to covering up or cleaning up preventable issues, from your skin to your laundry and your household appliances and fixtures.” Hard water and iron don’t just leave stains, they cost you time, money, and frustration. But with Haferman’s water systems, you can simplify your routine, protect your home, and enjoy worry-free water that makes life easier, healthier, and more effortless every day. The water system that Haferman’s team trusts? Kinetico. Haferman Water has partnered with Kinetico for nearly 50 years. “They work with no downtime, minimal maintenance, and are backed by extensive third-party certifications,” says Paul. Paul recommends the Kinetico® Whole Home Treatment System for your home, a system proven to deliver higher performance than anything else on the market — certified to reduce up to 99.9% of all contaminants. “They have a one-of-a-kind design that no other water treatment company can compare with,” explains Paul. “There’s water, soft water, and Kinetico water. It’s the difference between a watch that works part of the day and a watch that is capable of ticking every second of the day.” The Kinetico system also fixes those unseen health contaminants. There’s a long and growing list of contaminants in drinking water — what you cook with and what’s in your glass — that we now know have adverse health effects. “There’s a lot of research and many scare tactics out there,” says Paul. “That’s not our business or approach; we focus on those who want a certified expert to remove the worry. Our mission is to provide the finest quality water and service to our customers.”

Local and family-owned, the family at Haferman Water Conditioning. Photography by Shea Jurgensen

Having worry-free water throughout your home can make a remarkable difference in your health and overall well-being. Better hair and skin to start. Paul says you’ll notice that you use less soap and products. Water will rinse better, leaving you with the feeling of your actual skin and hair, not products clinging to you. And not only will you notice the health impact on the outside, but also on the inside. Paul explains, “You’ll be better hydrated because your body will no longer have to act as the filter. It’ll finally be able to just use the water for hydration.” You’ll feel the difference in how both your body and mind function when you’re drinking water that’s as close to “just water” as it can get. Delivering water that supports your health, your home, and your peace of mind is Haferman’s specialty. “Water treatment is all that we do. We’re so passionate about this work,” says Paul. “We’re focused on being the experts you can rely on. We love what we do and are happy to know we’re making a real impact on people’s lives.” hafermanwater.com

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

AN INTERVIEW WITH DR. KYLE GILLETT

The New Frontier of Health

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 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.

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

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

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

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 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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JANUARY 2026

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 3 RD

Full Wolf Moon Hike Minnesota Landscape Arboretum | 5:00 PM Come howl at the Full Wolf Moon during this special snowshoe-after-dark event at the Arboretum! Snowshoes are available to rent so you can explore winter trails and find the best moon-viewing spots at the Arboretum. After your full moon hike, warm up around a bonfire and roast a marshmallow. Beverages will also be available for purchase. Get your tickets and more details at arb.umn.edu/fullmoonhikes JA NUA RY 9 T H

Annual Waconia Show Choir Premiere Night Waconia Performing Arts Center | 5:00 PM The Waconia Choir Boosters Annual Premiere Night begins another electrifying Show Choir season! It's the public’s first opportunity of the competition season to see performances by our amazing Waconia High School show choirs. This year’s performances also include a Silent Auction with items donated from local area businesses, choir boosters, and friends and families. Showtimes are at 5pm, 6:15pm, and 7:30pm. waconiachoirs.org/premierenight JA NUA RY 1 0 T H

SWellness Health & Wellness Expo Chaska Community Center | 9:00 AM Do you have new health goals for 2026? Join the SouthWest Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Chaska Community Center for SWellness! This event features an expo with wellness vendors and service providers. This includes all types of wellness — physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, financial, and more. There will be service demos, special discounts, products for purchase, and more. JA NUA RY 2 2 N D

Winter Winemaker's Dinner: Vino Minnesotano Italian Night Schram Vineyards | 6:00 PM Escape to Italy for an unforgettable evening of food, wine, and warm winter indulgence. This special night features a true Schram collaboration: Winemaker Steve and owners Aaron and Ashley will guide you through each wine pairing, while Chef Simone leads the culinary journey with beautifully crafted Italian dishes. Together, they bring to life an experience that showcases the very best of what Schram has to offer. Get tickets: schramvineyards.com/event-details/winter-winemakers-dinner-vino-minnesotano JA NUA RY 2 4 T H

Frozen Fairway Open Lake Waconia Regional Park | 12:00 PM The Waconia DandyLions annual Frozen Fairway Open is back on Saturday, January 24! Jump on the course anytime between 12pm and 2pm for nine fun holes of snow golf. They'll supply the tennis balls, you supply your golf club of choice: hockey stick, broom, tee-ball bat, or golf club! Along with golf, there'll be music, food, and a Best Dressed Team contest. Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/waconiadandylions/ JA NUA RY 3 1 ST

Cutest Puppy Contest Back Channel Brewing | 1:00 PM Don't miss one of the most adorable events of the year. The 6th-Annual Cutest Puppy Contest is at Back Channel Brewing. Funds raised from this event will go toward the 2026 Klondike Dog Derby race weekend operating expenses, where all net profits are donated to their non-profit partners: Can Do Canines, Cast Outdoor, and ICA Food Shelf. Bring your pup and vote for your favorites!

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