These are a few of my favourite things!
Over the years I have established a list of go-to brands and services for health, fitness, wellness related needs in the city and I wanted to share it with you!
I am only choosing to share things that I actually use and love - I would never recommend something or someone that I have never experienced or used myself. I hope this list is a helpful tool for others!
Services
Totum Life Science: I have been injured for just over 2 years now and Totum has helped me through everything. Mary Catherine is my physiotherapist and Sophia is my massage therapist. The clinic is great because it offers opportunity for the two to work together and keep each other in the loop about what has been working for me. Especially because my injury is quite unique, I trust them and their treatment methods.
Proactive Pelvic Health Centre: Tiffaney is amazing! I literally never even knew what pelvic floor physio was until I injured myself. Now believe me when I say that all women (and even men too!) should go to understand how to properly engage your inner core muscles. Tiffaney even made an effort to call me a few times after appointments to check in on me.
Dr. Hilary Chambers: A friend referred me to Dr. Hilary and I am so glad she did. We had an instant connection and I have since referred many other friends and clients her way. She is young, extremely well-educated, and makes things understandable for the every day person. She takes a holistic, but practical and realistic approach, focusing more on lifestyle changes first before going to supplements and other types of treatment. Stay tuned as Dr. Hilary and I will be collaborating later this Fall for an awesome Q and A session!
Food
Impact Kitchen: Thank goodness they opened a west location around the corner from me. King East is not my part of town and I wouldn’t often venture there. Although it can be pricey depending on what you buy I have been loving the Harvest Bowl, the Almond Protein Brownie, and the Restore smoothie. I know I can count on Impact to offer me a high quality snack or meal if I am on the go.
Kupfert and Kim: Like Impact Kitchen, I live dangerously close to K&K. Their saying is “wheatless, meatless” so it is all about the vegan options. Although I do ensure I consume meats and fish as protein, I am always looking for healthier alternatives to my food choices. They have a variety of flavours and meals to choose from - my favourites are the waffle and blue smoothie bowl!
Fitness Classes
Barreworks: OBVIOUSLY! Haha if you didn’t know I work here now you do! But in all honesty, I loved it from the moment I stepped foot in the studio as a client 6 years ago. The staff at the desk works hard to make everyone feel welcome and the instructors really do care. It is a great workout to mix up your regular routine if the studio isn’t a place you often frequent.
Run The Flex: Now this isn’t technically a fitness class but SO MUCH FUN! RTF is an adult hip hop community offering 6-week sessions for beginners and intermediate hip hop dancers. Aaron and Nicole create a safe space for all levels and experiences to come and dance without any judgment. I have participated twice and really enjoyed myself. It was the best part of the week!
Brands
Kaia Naturals: I LOVE their Juicy Bamboo Face Wipes! They smell amazing and leave your skin looking great too post workout. No gross residue or red face (unless it is from your workout). They are biodegradable and work well for sensitive skin like mine. I usually pick mine up at The Detox Market.
Raw Nutritional: I recently came across this Quebec based company after someone commented on my Instagram post recommending them. They sent me some samples and I actually LOVE it! They are vegan which is important to me since I try to reduce/avoid dairy for skin and digestion reasons. ZERO chalky taste at all! Super impressed. I have only used the Maple Vanilla flavour so far but loving it.
What are your favourite must-use brands, must-eat spots, and must-use services?
Yours in self-discovery,
Rachel