Building a solid network of local and like minded professionals in your field is the only way to achieve your A game, refresh your perspective, brainstorm new ideas, feel part of a community and make some new friends. Throw some cocktails and snacks into the mix and it’s a party!
FitDrinks by Body Local is a monthly networking/cocktail party that aims to build a community of fitness and wellness professionals who want to re-define the detox-retox-redux.
If you are a personal trainer, yoga teacher, massage therapist, acupuncturist, nutritionist, running coach, holistic health counselor, physical therapist, etc. or a fitness and wellness enthusiast, please come to tomorrow’s important and really fun event.
FitDrinks Brooklyn is taking place Thursday, June 6th, 2013 from 8-10pm at Awakening (607 Manhattan Ave.)
Healthy snacks & beverages provided by Brooklyn-based companies including Café Anise, Peeled Snacks, Pipernilli (vegan cookies), Brooklyn Dark (organic chocolate), Plan Tea and Kombucha Brooklyn.
While on a daily Greenpoint exploration I stumbled into the recently opened, 3 Roots (159 Franklin St). Not only did I discover a deliciously fermented beverage similar to Kombucha called Jun served in 3 test tubes, I met former investment banking slash fashion world survivor Samantha Hew, who escaped the corporate world and found her purpose in opening a juice bar in Greenpoint.
I don’t know if it was the Jun or the heart to heart with Samantha that left me with a pep in my step and a sense of inspiration. There is a particular electric-like quality in Samantha that I’ve noticed in others who risk it all and pursue their passion. And it’s contagious.
Samantha chatted us about dietary choices and life:
Greenpointers: What is your favorite comfort food? Samantha: My very own chicken soup. I put lots of spice and herbs so it’s the best soup that you can buy anywhere!
Greenpointers: Why call it 3 Roots? Samantha: I have two lovely sisters and we are three girls in the fam, hence the number three. As for Roots, that’s just a kool sexy word and I want 3 ‘ROOTS’ to be the place where my life can begin to unfold and grown deeply as a woman.
Greenpointers: What was life like before 3 Roots? Why open a health cafe? Samantha: I was in the corporate world, slaved for several fashion companies and investment banks, ten years of my life doing something I didn’t enjoy doing at all. Why not a health cafe? I have a culinary degree from the famous French Culinary Institue, 2005. My heart has always been with food and the kitchen.
Greenpointers: Is there a specific dietary philosophy behind 3 Roots? Samantha: I believe in moderation and balance. There is no one diet for anyone, much less one way to do anything in life. Simply put, you feed your body what it needs, it gives you what you want and 3 Roots is here to create that partnership. You and your body.
It is a big world out there. I am always inspired by all different kinds of cultural diets from French to Indian. 3 Roots definitely has ayurvedic influence, thanks to the manager of 3 Roots, Jess Lee. She has taught me all about ayurvedic teaching. Continue reading →
Are you stressed? Not feeling or looking your best? Bored of your old workout routine? Need to improve your diet? We have partnered with some of our favorite local fitness and wellness experts to bring to you our Spring Wellness Guide. It is packed with information, local fitness events, wellness tips, PLUS special Greenpointers discounts to help you get on your way to feeling your best this season!Sparrow Bk (95 Norman Ave)
About: Sparrow is an intersection of health, beauty, art, nature, and good old Brooklyn magic. Massage therapist and Reiki wizard, Ariel Sheldon teamed forces with Caroline Bach hairstylist, colorist and beauty maven to create Sparrow; a place of health and good grooming. Nestled steps away from the subway, this charming Greenpoint space offers a naturally relaxed and genuinely inspired experience.
Greenpointers Discount: Mention Greenpointers for 20% off your first session with each Massage Therapist.
“All of our massage therapists are trained to not only relax your body and transport your soul, but also to address any injuries, misalignments, or areas of chronic pain. We go a step beyond the common spa experience to help truly heal your body.”
Wellness Tip #1: Since most of us spend over 8 hours a day sitting a desk, your workspace is the first place to look in avoiding back pain. Most desks are made too high for the average person. You should be able to sit up straight, fully relax your shoulders, and still have a slight downward slope from your elbow crease to your wrists. Ergonomically we were made to work with our hands in our laps, so raise up your chair, and put something under your feet to relieve strain on your shoulders and your wrists.
Wellness Tip #2: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome has become increasingly common, and most people worry about “contracting it.” There are a lot of misconceptions about what exactly it is, and what treatments are available. The Carpal Tunnel is a small space between the bones of the wrist that the nerves to the hand passes through. These bones often get jammed together when the tendons to the fingers become tight and press on them as they pass over the wrist. Unless the bones are completely fused, which is very rare, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is usually completely treatable by the right kind of massage. If the muscles at the top of the forearm – which control the fingers – are released, the pressure on the tendons and therefore the wrist bones can also be released. So if you or anyone you know has pain in the wrist, or tingling in their fingers or hands – send them to Sparrow first!
intensati @ Human@Ease (31 Nassau Ave)
About: intensati is a revolutionary workout developed by Patricia Moreno. It’s a fusion of high-energy aerobics, martial arts, yoga, and strength conditioning. Combining spoken affirmations with simple choreography, intenSati provides a heart-pumping, exhilarating workout that builds physical, mental, and spiritual muscle. It is fitness at the highest efficiency and empowerment.
intenSati instructor Elina Leclaire has a passion for health & wellness, inspirational events, and coaching people to discover and pursue their dreams. For over a decade, she has helped challenge, inspire and equip more than 10,000 people through her company Dream Careers.
Since 2010 Elina has been practicing intenSati, a practice she loves to share as it has taken her to the next level in pursuing her own dreams. She teaches Wednesdays at 8pm and Sundays at 1:30pm at Human@Ease in Greenpoint.
You will leave class feeling stronger, uplifted and inspired. Elina is enthusiastic about leading you through a transformational workout of mind, body and spirit that will empower you to live a life you love.
Elina is co-leading a FREE fitnesss event in McCarren Park on Saturday, May 4th at 10:30am with wellness coach Ekayani Chamberlain. To join – meet at human@ease (31 Nassau Ave) at 10:30am. Elina hopes to continue to lead free fitness classes in the park on Saturday mornings. To sign up for free intenSati Saturdays in McCarren Park, email Elina at elina.leclaire@gmail.com
About: Boasting a 5-star average Yelp rating, Beastanetics is led by uber-friendly, supportive, and experienced, nationally certified personal trainers, Tim Haft and Shana Brady. This is the same duo, which brings you Punk Rope at the Greenpoint Y every Wednesday night. Tim and Shana have devised a highly effective, back to basics, interval training program, which has delivered fantastic results since it’s inception in 2010. In addition to delivering the goods when it comes to fitness, Tim and Shana have built a vibrant and supportive community of Beasts, which serves to enhance the entire experience.
Greenpointers Discount: Use the discount code GREENPOINTERS at checkout and receive 20% off the registration fee, that’s a savings of $24. (Valid for first-time Beasts only.)
Wellness Tip: In our book, feeling great begins with reducing “bad” stress. Try to uncover the triggers, which make you feel bad. These might be unhealthy foods, toxic relationships, or poor exercise habits. Next, realize that when it comes to fitness you are in control. You don’t need a gym. You don’t need any fancy equipment. You were born with everything necessary to reach an incredible level of fitness. Find a fitness instructor who motivates you and that you can learn from and join a program such as Beastanetics, which will challenge you while simultaneously offering love and support.
About: goodyoga has served the Greenpoint neighborhood since 2009. In late 2012 we expanded to Bushwick and Bed-Stuy. Our classes emphasize safe alignment, personal attention by experienced yoga teachers and small class sizes that give you room to move comfortably. Students appreciate our hospitality and the supportive community that goodyoga studios foster in their respective neighborhoods. Thanks to our goodkarma work exchange program, everyone can experience the benefits of a heathy yoga practice, regardless of their income.
Our Mysore Ashtanga program is offered 6 days a week and is led by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois authorized teacher Amy Santos. The popular open-air rooftop classes begin in late Spring and run through the Summer, weather permitting. Class Levels range from Absolute Beginner to Challenging and Styles include Vinyasa Flow, Hatha, Pilates Fusion, Theraputic and Restorative. Our Everyone level classes are our most popular, and are designed to appeal to a wide range of practitioners.
Greenpointers Discount: Mention Greenpointers to receive 10% off your monthly membership.
Wellness Tip: A personalized 7 day cleanse from goodyoga will leave you smelling like May flowers in no time. Scheduled at your convenience, your goodcleanse may be tailored to suit your needs by simplifying or elaborating any aspect.
The goodcleanse includes:
Detailed manual with instructions, grocery lists, basic recipes, schedules, ayurvedic practices, and information about the Chakras and the Yamas and Niyamas to support your cleanse.
Daily email support
(2) 30 minute phone consultations with cleanse counselor
12oz goodjuice – 6 per day x 3 days
4oz daily bestbucha – 1 per day x 7 days
goodteas – 1 per day x 7 days
Ayurvedic Herbal supplements
Unlimited week of goodyoga
All for $250
Optional packed goodfood x 4, please inquire
Optional materials available at all goodyoga locationspilatesmandi (171 Engert Avenue #7)
About: pilatesmandi provides Pilates and personal training expertly designed to meet your needs. Check out the 5 star rating on Yelp! This is a perfect environment for those who desire something different from the usual gym setting. Intimate and laid back, choose or combine Pilates on the apparatus, personal training or amazing cardio workouts on the trampoline. Play a record or select a rockin’ playlist for your workout. (Mandi L. shares her workout playlists on Spotify via Facebook)
Smart exercise selection, years of experience and a one-of-a-kind personality brings each pilatesmandi session to life.
Pilates Boot Camp on-the-roof coming soon!
Greenpointers Discount: Mention Greenpointers and receive 10% off first purchase!
About: Awakening NY is an exciting new urban sanctuary in the heart of Greenpoint/Williamsburg. We are an eco-green 7,000 sq.ft. state of the art Wellness Center and Healthy Cafe. Our facility boasts three beautifully designed studios, 3 large healing and massage rooms, 1 private steam room and a private Jacuzzi. Awakening is truly the destination for all things health and wellness from personal training and Ayurvedic Counseling to massages and Sound Healing Therapy. Awakening has no shortage of classes for everyone from beginners and advanced alike.
Awakening offers Power Strike, for children ages 7-12, yoga, pilates, zumba and even toning classes.
When you are done with your class or spa service head over to Cafe Anise at Awakening and enjoy one of it’s many healthy and organic juices or grab a sandwhich and take advantage of the free WiFi. The cafe even offers a special spring Goddess 3 day juice cleanse complete with one free Zumba class and a 20 minute Steam Shower. Awakening is rated 4 stars on Yelp! so why not come and see what the excitement is all about?
Greenpointers Discount: Mention Greenpointers when you come in to Awakening and receive 10% off your purchase of classes, spa services, and membership. (One time only.)
Fitness Tip #1: How to lose that arm jiggle? It’s spring and pretty soon everyone is going to be walking around town with more skin showing. Why not show off what could be your best asset…your arms? How to do this? Well you have to start by moving your Arms AND your body. Start in the morning by doing pushups until exhaustion, either modified or full pushups, followed by basic crunches until exhaustion (remember don’t let your chin touch your chest). Repeat this 2-3 times at least 3-4 times a weak. And walk to work or take the longest route to the train station or bus stop for some cardio. But remember you need to power walk NOT stroll. It’s ok to be that crazy person on the street. This is New York!
Fitness Tip #2: Lose that jiggle in the middle. Change your diet! Now that the weather is nicer it’s easier to eat healthier foods. Start by eating breakfast everyday. This is something which surprisingly enough most people do not do. Remove the white flower from your diet (bagels, white bread, white rice) and replace it with whole grains. Add more fruits, especially berries, and vegetables to your diet. And finally, replace one meal with a salad or high protein food with vegetables every day and you will start to see the waist line get smaller. Follow this with 30 minutes of exercise 3 days a week and you will start to see that old you come back.
About: Human@Ease is an alternative gym experience with 4.5 stars on Yelp. With our one of a kind Introversion® self training, we teach maximize effort to minimize time. This strength training method is slow reps at high intensity on a circuit of medical grade exercise machines. The result is less workout time with more achievement. Only four people are allowed at a time to work out, so you never have to wait for machines, and one of our friendly trainers will go through two workout routines with you to teach you proper technique and set up your machines & personal progress chart.
We also offer an array of classes including Zumba, Tai Chi, and donation based Yoga classes of varying principles.
Post workouts, we have an Infrared Sauna which mimics the beneficial rays of the sun without the damaging effects and burns up to 600 calories in one 30 min session; in-house massage therapists; and special detoxification packages to further promote your health.
Greenpointers Discount: When you mention Greenpointers, you’ll receive 1 Free Fitness Class or 20% Off a 5 pack of Self Training Sessions
Fitness Tip: What is the most effective type of exercise for your body type? Often I get asked, “What’s the best way to lose weight or what are the most effective workouts for me”? Although, there are hundreds of different varieties of exercise styles to chose from, it’s important to keep in mind that all of us earthlings have the same muscle and joint function and therefore should select a workout routine that works in direct accordance with that muscle and joint function. It should also offer full range of motion and progressive resistance. Now I know that sounds a bit technical but to put it to you straight, strength training is the only type of exercise that can fill those needs. Now, don’t get me wrong, you’ll benefit from most any type of motion, but strength training can offer benefits that no other type of exercise can offer all in one package. Of course, it needs to be done properly and in the right environment to achieve optimal results. So whether you like shakin’ your tush in Zumba, Zen-ning out and stretching in Yoga, or slamming your feet on the pavement; always, always strength train as your foundation. The good news is, if you apply the right intensity, you only need to do it once a week!
This Sunday, April 7th, McGolrick Park’s Down to Earth Farmers Market begins its second season at the corner of Russell St and Nassau Ave. The market will run every Sunday through the end of December, 11 am – 4pm. As we prepare for Opening Day, let’s sit back, take a deep breath, and remember:
Brooklyn Cured: Scott and his crew make the best charcuterie this borough has ever had. Lamb sausage with yogurt and olives, country pate, New York Style hot dogs, and more.
Grown in Brooklyn: Barry with his hot wok, stirring up tempeh samples. He creates tempeh with unique mixes of beans and grains: White bean and brown rice; soybeans and toasted walnuts, to name a couple. He also makes market salads with peanut sauce. Fresh tempeh tamales. Get it to go, right then and there.
Horman’s Best Pickles: Nick and friends bring big barrels full of brine-soaked pickles: red flannels, sweet and sour, new dill. They’ll let you try a bite of anything – and everything.
Orwashers Bakery: Walt starts every market morning behind a fortress piled high of bread. Bit by bit, all day long, he is freed by the lines of people coming to buy the loaves. And he rocks out to the radio. Sourdough, Rye, Chardonnay Miche, Ciabatta, round Pumpkin loaves in the fall…
Pie Lady & Son: Will brings stacks of white boxes full of pies by his uber-talented mama. Pies that change with the harvest – blueberry pies in early summer; apple pies arrive in the fall. And many others. Some people leave with 3 or 4 boxes in a day. It’s true. You know you’ve seen it, too. You. Know.
Tierra Farm: Locally-roasted, fair trade coffees, nuts, and original nut butters with Lea. Granola. Crack. Ok, maybe not crack. But a similar addictive quality.
All of these vendors are returning as of this Sunday. AND there’s more:
FISH! American Pride Seafood, owned by two fisherman from Long Island, is going to bring fresh, fileted fish from the Atlantic Ocean every Sunday. Their catch varies with the water’s offerings and often includes swordfish, fluke, pollack, bay scallops and more. Every week is a new week from the water.
Pastured-raised beef, lamb, and goat! Stone & Thistle Farm is excited for their first day at the market this Sunday. The farm is owned and operated by Tom and Denise Warren, with their kids, and located upstate in East Meredith, NY. By Memorial Day weekend, they’ll have fresh chickens raised on their open pasture land, too.
Sandwiches to go! Saucy by Nature, the Brooklyn-based condiment company home to amazing seasonal sauces will have sandwiches to go starting on Sunday, April 14th. You know the Sunday morning choice between going to brunch or to the farmers market? This will be one less choice to make: brunch time AT the market.
Lastly – yet certainly not least – the growers! As the harvest comes in, the farmers are eager to return to McGolrick Park. Starting in June, we welcome Great Road Farm, Garden of Eve, Brooklyn Grange, and Alex’s Tomato Farm. Come ‘mon, Lady Spring, work your magic and bring on the fruits & veggies.
On behalf of Down to Earth Farmers Markets, thank you, Greenpointers, for supporting local food and farmers at McGolrick Park. Also, thank you to NY State Assemblyman Joe Lentol and his staff for helping us open in the early spring. It’s will be so nice to be back!
Classes Begin Monday April 1 at the McCarren Park Soccer Field
Rated 5 stars on Yelp, Beastanetics utilizes strategically selected high-intensity, body-weight exercises to incinerate fat, boost metabolism, and improve stamina, strength, agility, speed, power, and overall athleticism.
Head Beasts, Tim Haft and Shana Brady, hold multiple, national fitness certifications, and have been professional butt kickers for more than 20 years. They will do everything in their power—and then some—to make you feel safe, supported, and welcome.
CLASS TIMES
Monday through Thursday 6:45am, 8am, 9:15am
FEES
6-week, 12-session program: $120
Single class: $15
One-time free trial class for virgin Beasts
Good Morning Flu York. Have you already gotten it? (Share in the comments.) Or are you paralyzed with the fear of getting it? It’s bad out there and everyone is sick. According to Huff Post’s, Dr. Katz, “the virus and the outbreak pattern at this point seem to resemble those of the 2003-2004 flu season, in which nearly 50,000 Americans died.” This is a serious bug. So what can you do?
10. Pimp A Mask; It Might Work And You Will Look Insane (Win Win)
This isn’t Asia, so when you wear a mask on the subway, unless you are Asian you look bonkers, but it’s NY so no one really gives a shit.
You can get creative here, plus “it can’t hurt and it might help … wearing a surgical mask and using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer helped reduce the number of influenza-like illnesses in a group of students living in a college dormitory,” reports James M. Steckelberg, M.D. (Note: Students in dorms should be required to wear hazmat suits at all times.)
Hand sanitizer wrestling anyone? Did you know that tea tree, lavender and eucalyptus oil are naturally microbial?
9. Date Online Literally; Mouth Condoms Do Not Exist
Wait until spring for offline make out sessions with random people you meet online. You know who you are and we aren’t judging. There is no work around for this. Stick your tongue in someone’s mouth and put yourself at risk. The more mouths, the more risk. If you’ve been on OkCupid for more than a month you have made out with everyone who has made out with everyone, so giving it a rest until some new blood signs-up might be a good look anyway.
Or you can wear a mask (see above.) Or body condom (Naked Gun.)
8. “Down With OPP?” Wash Your Paws You Filthy Animal!
With soap and often! “A quick rinse won’t do the trick. To kill germs… washing with soap for 15 to 30 seconds-about as long as it takes to hum a rollicking verse of “Yankee Doodle Dandy,” recommends Discovery Health.
7. If You Are Ill, Remember: You Suck And Everyone Hates You
This is simple logic. If you are sick you are going to get everyone else sick. Do your coworkers and fellow commuters a favor and stay home. No one thinks you are a hero to brave the cold and sit uselessly at your desk hallucinating on Dayquil. In fact, when you ride the train sniveling, everyone thinks you’re an asshole. And when you are coughing in your cubicle, your coworkers hate you. Continue reading →
Greenpointers ♥’s taking good care of our bodies and Sapere Studio is the ideal place to do so with many deals especially for our readers!
Exclusive Holiday deals for Greenpointer readers. Mention Greenpointers at booking to receive discount.
♦Buy a one time $59 monthly unlimited class pass, and then receive $10 off a monthly unlimited yoga class pass or unlimited class pass when you sign up for a six or twelve month membership within your first month at the studio.
♦Want to try yoga or pilates? Are nervous about starting? Or are you an experienced practitioner who wants to deepen their practice? No matter what your level you can benefit from private classes at Sapere Studio. For Greenpointers only, two private pilates or yoga classes for $100. Private sessions are 60 minutes.
♦Last minute gifts that require no intricate wrapping paper skills? Greenpointers Deal get 10% off Thai Yoga and Nutrition, 20% off Acupuncture and 25% off first massage and 30% off any additional massage appointments.
Awakening NY (607 Manhattan Ave) is an urban sanctuary in the heart of Greenpoint. They are an eco-green 7,000 sq.ft. Wellness Center and Healthy Cafe here to help people find their way to a healthier, happier and more fulfilling lifestyle.
5 Great Holiday Gift Ideas:
1. Aphrodite’s Aura Exfoliation & Moisturizing Glow (Organic Body Scrub & Steam Shower with essential oils and therapeutic lights) combined with a 60 Minute Signature Massage for $125 (value of $150)
2. Cleopatra or Odysseus’ Dream Bath (nourishing salts, massaging jets, and exotic oils) combined with a 60 minute Signature Massage for $99 (value of $120)
3. Five 60 Minute Signature Massages for $300 (Value of $400)
4. Purchase a 3 Month Sapphire Membership (includes unlimited classes) & receive a complimentary Dream Bath or Steam Shower each month (3 total) for $399 (value of $540)
5. Purchase a 1 Month Amethyst Membership (includes unlimited classes) combined with a 60 Minute Signature Massage for $139 (value of $165)
We all know that it’s typical to pack on an additional 5lbs through the holidays; not to mention loading our bodies with tons of processed foods. Remove the guilt and the toxins and treat yourself or gift one our Detox treatments this holiday and burn up to 600 calories in one session.
Mention ‘GREENPOINTERS’ and take 20% off the package below
Get the Funk Out – 30 min shiatsu massage followed by 45 min infrared sauna session Shrink Me in a Hurry! – a body wrap with aromatherapy & 45-min infrared sauna session Do It Detox – coconut oil body rub, body wrap w/aromatherapy & 45-min infrared sauna session Human@Ease offers all types of fitness & wellness programs, classes and more. All of our YOGA classes are by donation and a portion goes to charity.
At Greenpointers we are all about feeling good and believe that Grandma knows best!
Whenever I got sick my Nonna would make me chicken soup with Chickarina, little chicken meat balls. How can that not make you feel better?
Today 11/29 from 5-7pm, the El Puente Green Light District, which organizes informal, intimate community events on Thursdays that focus on health & wellness is presenting Abuela’s Remedies, to share and learn traditional remedies passed down from generation to generation at the EcoHouse, located at Middle School 50 (183 S. 3rd St)
PS. Is that the Grandma from strawberry shortcake?!
Building a solid network of local and like minded professionals in your field is the only way to achieve your A game, refresh your perspective, brainstorm new ideas, feel part of a community and make some new friends. Throw some cocktails and snacks into the mix and it’s a party!
FitDrinks by Body Local is a monthly networking/cocktail party that aims to build a community of fitness and wellness professionals who want to re-define the detox-retox-redux.
All of these vendors are returning as of this Sunday. AND there’s more:
