How healthy is YOUR city? 

If you're like most American's, you're unable to quantify this with a distinguishable answer, however, in a survey given by The Aetna Foundation, most residents would rate their city a C. This seems highly lacking to me and I know from experience, that where you live can have a major impact on your overall health and lifestyle. 

Not only are we lacking in knowledge of upping our cities health factors, most American's perceptions of health are skewed. When surveyed, most American's, up to 77% according to the CDC, would rate their health quite high, stating that they live a healthy lifestyle 5 out of 7 days. Yet when we look at this countries health decline (50% of adults suffer from at least one chronic illness) and rising obesity rates, one could wonder if this is in fact the truth. 

Geographical location, along with environmental influences, have a great deal to do with our state of health in any given point in our life. I know personally, living in southern California as compared to living in Arizona's West Valley, southern California greatly offered me more healthy fare, including vegan and gluten-free options, as well as more even weather temperatures and community health events that allowed me to walk more and exercise outdoors year round. Whereas, in an Arizona summer I barely make it outside, let alone to walk or get to the gym. Is part of this my doing? Of course. But part of it is the location factor. It all plays a part. My city is also greatly lacking in any eateries that aren't a mass chain, leaving very few healthy, locally sourced options. 

That is why I was so passionate to pair up with the Aetna Foundation and their Healthiest Cities and Counties Challenge. It's a beautiful initiative that helps motivate our cities to put new programs in place to influence the health of it's community. 

And we, as our city's patrons, can play a part in the integration of improved conditions for how our area supports health and wellness. That fact is not only exciting, it gives us hope for a healthier lifestyle overall for not only us, but for our children's generation. The Aetna Foundation stated that 94% of America's are willing to do something in order to make their environment a healthier one. 

​How can we do that? I share six ideas below that you can work on over time. As for what we are doing, Mr.

69% of American's believe it is crucial to tend to our mental state to avoid stress, while 59% believe being in a good mood makes or breaks our day. This group also agrees that fitness and nutrition play an equally important role in our well-being. This means we are on a good path to a majority of American's seeking balance and understanding the importance this trifecta of details makes. There is hope!

Walking, yoga and meditation are wonderful ways to de-stress and its important to take time out of each day, no matter how brief, to check in with yourself and your state of well being. Even on the busiest of days I take a moment throughout the day to assess my stress level and decide if I need to step away and get fresh air, if a gentle stretch will help or if I need to break away all together for a short yoga or meditation session. 

As we juggle work, family, home and social responsibilities, self-care becomes more and more a vital aspect we need not push to the back burner. Many feel guilty in doing so, but in the end your work, relationships and overall happiness will be amplified when you're centered, less stressed and happier overall. 

The Aetna Foundation is looking for the top 50 healthiest cities and YOU have a chance to make an impact in your community and get them nominated. If you follow along the challenge you'll get to learn about the innovator cities that are making the biggest changes. Those include:

• San Diego, CA
• Tulsa City, OK
• Kansas City, MO 
• New Haven, CT
• Cleveland and Cuyahoga Counties, OH
• Durham and Cabarrus Counties, NC

Before we wrap up, make sure to visit my post of tips on how you and your family can increase Health & Wellness in your home every day! The Aetna Foundation also gives some great tips, so make sure you check it out to see what we recommend! And, if you feel so inclined, pin and share with all your lovely friends and family. 

​And finally, we'd love to know what makes YOUR city great? Comment below or join in the conversation on Instagram or Twitter with the hashtag #HealthiestCitiesChallenge and let us know! If you also tag @noshandnurture, I'll feature a list of Healthy Rock Star cities here on Nosh and Nurture's Wanderlust to spread the word on how awesome your city is doing or what you are doing / eating / enjoying in your city to boost your health and wellness.

Young, Wild & Free
Exploring the world before, after and during college can be one of the most insightful times in our life. It’s where we learn who we are, what we want out of life, what we don’t want. All of that is enough to think about without stressing over what to have with you when you’re discovering these life-changing revelations. Whether you’re trekking cross-country or just driving to the nearest mountain lodge, you’ll want to pack light. For wardrobe, pack light layers and neutral outfits that can be mixed and matched with ease. For travel snacks, opt for granola, protein sticks and other items that will give you lasting energy. Also, Google a map of local farmer’s markets in each city you hit to have access to fresh fruits and veg and don’t forget your journal to document your memories.
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Newlywed 
As a pair, you’ll need to learn the fine art of compromise. I got lucky and married someone who has a similar goal list when it comes to our travel desires, but not all couples will. Mix it up and keep it spontaneous. Take turns choosing the destination or excursions along the way, allowing yourself to be open to new experiences. When traveling with your honey, always have a tent and a picnic basket with an unopened bottle of wine in the car (caution if you’re traveling where it’s warm. I learned the hard way, that in heat, corks will burst.) It makes for a great impromptu romantic night of sleeping under the stars. Also, travel with comfortable blankets and pillows and map out a local drive-in theater for a little nostalgia. Battle of the Sexes card games are always fun to have when driving long hours, as are books on tape.


Mommy & Me
Pile in the littles and everything changes. The days of packing light in a fashionable mini-backpack are long behind you, though I hope you’re still scheduling time for the romantic picnics when the kids are with the grandparents, and visions of “Are We There Yet” chants hang in the air. Have no fear. With the right essentials, you needn’t expect anything but a fun road trip where both you and your kiddos can be entertained. First, make sure the snacks you pack are healthy and filling. Think about how you’d feel if you were given a heaping serving of sugar and empty calories and then strapped into a seat for five hours. I’d probably throw a tantrum too. Snacks that are balanced and nutritious, such as fibrous vegetables, berries and healthy crackers and cheese (if dairy is tolerated) are much better alternatives to sweets. For in car activities, pack a variety of books and games that are a mix of stimulating, educational and fun. Another way to expel more energy and to add adventure, purchase tickets to a museum, park or children’s center along the route that can break up the trip and give the kids something to explore.

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No matter the age, the journey is half the fun. With a little planning and knowledge, the stress can be taken out, leaving much more room for adventure and memory making. You can also check out my post on how to have a budget-friendly staycation.

This past weekend I was in Los Angeles for a work event. Mr. Charming and I rented a darling home in Toluca Lake in a beautiful, peaceful neighborhood and explored many neighboring cities and beach towns on my time off. 

I had one of the best Italian meals of my life, all gluten-free and vegan, and I had to share my top seven list of healthy eats in Studio City, CA where the crew and I spent a lot of our time while I was in town. Make sure to check out #1 to read about the best pasta in Hollywood. 

​About: After going through a drastic renovation to make it a modern piece of eye-candy in Studio City, Vitello's offers live entertainment (which was amazing) and delicious Italian options for gluten-free and non-GF foodies. 
Favorite Selections: Hands down the gluten free Capellini. The freshest ingredients I've tasted on the West Coast. The gluten-free pasta was cooked to perfection, the olive oil was pure and clean, the tomatoes had a kick of spice, the large garlic cloves were divine and the basil was fresh and delicate. A 10+. My non-GF husband RAVED about the lasagna. 
Location: 4349 Tujunga Ave, Studio City, CA 91604

Read more to see my personal choices for the Top 10 Farmer's Markets in DFW. Because everyone knows I love me a good Farmer's Market.

​Keep this list handy for when you're visiting, or for North Texas locals, save it for when you want to meet awesome farmers and crafters in your community. 

​To say this eatery was love at first taste would be a great understatement.

​As a traveler with many food intolerances and a health conscious palette, Snap Kitchen in Uptown Dallas and I were a match made in heaven. 

Upon arriving, I was warmly greeted by the staff and was encouraged to ask any questions I may have. I also met with Lead Dietitian and Local Marketing Coordinator, Daniel Magoon RDN, a man who understands the need for healthy, clean food in one’s community.who was hands down the nicest and most down to earth person I've met on my travels. 

The restaurant is set up as a quick service eatery, where all of the food is prepackaged in BPA-free containers. Making it the perfect stop for travelers or locals who want to stock up and have easy meals to prepare at home. They also have an extensive selection of organic juices in an array of flavors, as well as organic black coffee. 

As I was going to be touring Downtown Dallas most of the day and then catching a flight that evening, I was able to stock up on quite a few goodies that were delicious, convenient and TSA approved! Win/Win/Win! 

All of Snap Kitchen's items are organized by mealtime and are clearly labeled with allergen markers. Owned and operated by professional dietitians, the foods are tested for allergen and Celiac safety regularly, as well as multiple testing on nutritional content. With easy to read photo indicators I was able to scan the shelves to see which items were gluten-free, dairy-free, Paleo, Whole 30 approved and more. Snap Kitchen is also a Peanut-Free zone for those with allergic littles.  

Their food practices are also sustainable and community-concious. Snap Kitchen uses Cage Free and Certified Humane eggs, sustainable, antibiotic-free, non-GMO fed fish and the highest quality local meats, fruits and vegetables from local farmers. Something that is hard to come by in the restaurant industry and something I look for, since that is how I eat and feed my family at home. ​They also donate surplus food items through SoupMobile to help feed those in need.

For breakfast I chose the Almond Butter & Maple Pancakes. At only 180 calories for the entire dish, and only 6 grams of sugar, the pancakes are made from Gluten free, non-GMO steel cut oats, almond butter, egg, maple syrup, vanilla extract and cinnamon. 

I'm always skeptical when it comes to gluten-free pancakes because they are either really good or really, really bad. And I was ecstatic to find that these fell into the first category. REALLY GOOD. They were fluffy and sweet, but not too sweet. And since the sugar content of the pancake was low for a pancake, I added a little of their maple and vanilla bean syrup on top because it..... was.... vanilla bean maple heaven in my mouth. 

My other top breakfast picks are below. 

For lunch I tried the Naked Beef. It was so clean, flavorful and guilt-free. I ate half for lunch and took half with me on the plane so I didn't have to worry about finding safe, healthy eats at the airport. The dish is made with petite tender beef, garlic snap peas and roasted cauliflower. A lovely, carb-concious Paleo meal that is also Whole 30 approved. 

It was hard to choose just one lunch/dinner option as so many looked beautiful and tasty. Below are my other top favorites: 

And of COURSE we have to touch on dessert, because finding a healthy, Paleo dessert is like finding a Unicorn in the forest. My favorites were the Coconut Macaroons and the silky Chocolate "Mousse". While the mousse is made with soy, it is non-GMO soy and I know some of us can tolerate clean soy in small amounts. 

​They also offer prepackaged gluten-free brownies and cookies, which I’d be lying if I said I didn’t get a couple of those for the plane too.

Overall, Snap Kitchen is a vibrant, community-benefiting establishment with great eats and friendly faces!

For more on Snap Kitchen and to find a Texas or Illinois location near you, visit www.SnapKitchen.com. 

Walk into the lobby of The Joule | Dallas and you no longer feel like you're in the west. The stylish hotel, located on Main Street in downtown Dallas, transports visitors to a world that embraces high fashion, individuality and style like no other. 

I experienced the Joule this past weekend and was inspired by every unique detail. From breathtaking art installations to awe-inspiring lighting displays, it stimulates your every sense. Upon pulling up to the grand entrance on I was greeted by valet and escorted inside. An eye-catching steam punk era gear rotates as the lobby's centerpiece and is surrounded by plush retro furniture. Videos of underground subways hang nearby, adding to its metropolitan feel. It's an inviting space that mixes Dallas charm with a Manhattan-like buzz of electric energy.   

As it was early when I arrived, and not quite time for check in, I headed to the hotels Weekend coffee shop. The small open space is airy and welcoming, like a big hug, if hugs smelled of fresh coffee and pastries. Although I was disappointed in the fact they didn't have any gluten-free selections, their coffee made up for it. I will usually splurge on a decaf latte when I'm traveling because I miss the warm drinks of my past and they offered vegan, non-soy lattes, so I was in coffee house heaven. I ordered a decaf almond milk vanilla latte (their vanilla syrup is extremely pure and is free of corn syrup!) and enjoyed writing and reading in the sitting room area adjacent to the cafe until it was time to check in. 

Once I finished making love to, er, enjoying my delicious latte, I headed back to the lobby to check in.

After checking in, I was led to my room, the King Suite, where I was greeted with a scrumptious bowl of fresh fruit & sparkling water. When I travel, I look for rooms with separate spaces. A place to sleep, a place to read (I have an obsession with chaise lounges, I must admit) and a place to write & focus. Since most of my travels include journalism or blogging, a good desk with a comfortable chair is a must, and The Joule's King Suite delivered all three.

From the bedroom/living area there is what I affectionately called "the beauty wing" - a large mirror greets you through an open doorway and to the right was a vanity. Though I preferred the lighting in the mirrors over the bathroom sinks, the vanity gave me a nice place to set up and organize my jewelry and accessories for the morning. 

The lighting throughout the suite was one of my favorite touches. Mr. Charming and I have a thing for good, stylish lighting and we were quite impressed. The expansive rain showers would satisfy any luxury seekers needs while also serving its functionality to those just seeking a place to rinse off or belt out a good tune (the acoustics are better than any vocal booth I've been in). The water system took a little while to learn (three handles - one to turn the water on, one for pressure and one for temperature), but once I got it down I enjoyed the rain forest like atmosphere as the warm water washed away the day and the ESPA spa body wash (from the hotels own in house spa) that smelled of bergamot, jasmine and warm cedarwood made me feel pampered.

For those looking to relax after the shower, the hotel does offer buttery soft bathrobes and silky soft slippers to slip into. A special extra touch that goes hand in hand with a mini bar. Which the hotel rooms also offer.

After luxuriating for a while, I got ready (best mirrors & lighting for makeup application by the way girls!) and headed downstairs to explore the hotel. With various towers its easy to get a little mixed up, so don't hesitate to ask a concierge for direction. The staff was amazingly attentive and helped me with museum tickets, finding my way around and dinner reservations. 

I ventured up to the pool first because I had heard about this hotels amazing infinity pool. I took some magazines with me and headed up to the hotels tenth floor to enjoy the view before my dinner meetings. As you enter the pool area you first come upon a bar and a scattering of comfy cabanas, tables and chaise loungers. 

The best part about the pool? The view! Swimming ten stories above Downtown Dallas you can swim to the pools edge and out over the street below. The view below also makes for taking beautiful photos, but be careful, you never know who or what is watching you. 

After reading by the pool, I made my way to the spa. ESPA is a spa that nurtures mind, body & soul and aligns with their vision for whole body health & wellness. It partners with their fitness center VITAL fitness. Their state of the art wellness facilities are what caught my eye in the first place and I feel like touching on them briefly doesn't capture all the benefits they can offer those staying in or visiting the hotel. For my full review on the spa, ESPA click on the ESPA image below. For a menu of the classes and amenities offered at VITAL fitness, click on the studio image below. 

After checking out the spa and speaking with the kind staff on their menu of services I wasn't quite hungry enough for dinner yet and was in the mood to do a little shopping. Their on the pulse connection to what's trending makes this fashionista very happy and I spent thirty minutes chatting up the girls in their on site clothing store, Ten Over Six. Eclectic separates, colorful eye wear and on-trend accessories made up the shop of colorful selections. Their jewelry display was also quite impressive. Other shops include Traffic L.A. and DSquared2, which I have to be honest, I may have cried inside a little, because working in fashion for so long DSquared2 has been one of my favorite lines, season after season. I got butterflies being in the the presence of their beautiful F/W 2015 collection. 

 As Carrie Bradshaw famously stated "shopping is my cardio" so after browsing a while I had worked up quite an appetite. The Joule's own CBD Provisions has an extensive gluten-free menu with many dairy-free options so I wanted to head there for a delicious hot meal and to meet up with some writing contacts in town. Americano is another eatery set to open on October 5th. To see my reviews, photos and favorite dishes choose the restaurant below. 

With such contrasting designs and menus, both are a must try. 

While the hotel does offer a lobby bar and the cool retro Midnight Rambler, I was sleepy from my busy day and after a delicious dinner I retired to our room to write for a while. At the touch of a button my window shades were drawn back to showcase the lights of the towering downtown buildings and the air was dropping to a cool and comfortable 70 degrees. While Dallas has many sights to offer, its easy to get lost in a dreamy day of enjoying The Joule. 

Set to open on October 5th, 2015, Americano is the newest addition to the exquisite collection of The Joule's stylish and decadent offerings. 

The restaurant, with it's fresh, modern feel will feature an Italian menu complete with dishes that range from comfort food selections such as brick-oven pizzas to more fanciful bites, like butternut squash stuffed tortellini. 

It's vibrant red and green palette set as the backdrop to the restaurants retro Italian cinema theme, incorporating decorative touches from the 1950's and 1960's. The throwback nod showcases a cohesiveness with the hotel lobby that sits just outside the restaurants double doors. 

The eateries Executive Chef, Matt Ford, will also feature small plate appetizers, in-house fresh pastas topped with chicken meatballs and fresh Artisanal breads. The dessert menu is equally impressive with beautifully handcrafted pastries by renowned Executive Pastry Chef Ruben Torano and fresh gelato. The bar, topped with smooth marble and bronze, is also set to feature a wide selection of on tap beers and an abundance of wine varietals. 

Those who enjoy the energy of Downtown Dallas will appreciate the spaces innovative outdoor patio. Situated against the bustling sidewalk of downtown's Main Street, the glass enclosed patio features modern, bi-folding windows that open for patrons to enjoy balmy Spring nights and cool winter afternoons. 

Opening October 5th, 2015!

​Location: 
The Joule Hotel at 1530 Main St, Dallas
Hours: 
Monday – Thursday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.,
Friday – Saturday 11 a.m. to midnight, and Sunday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
​Contact: 
http://www.thejouledallas.com/

Walk into CBD Provisions at The Joule Dallas and you feel like you're home. That is if your home is a warm, inviting space that smells like authentic Texas fare. Lit with warm, retro Edison bulbs, it's reclaimed wood and smooth metal furnishings lend a casual, refined style to the award-winning Texas brasserie. 

The downtown Dallas eatery showcases so much of what Texas is about and does so beautifully. From it's local Texas culinary menu items and sustainable food sourcing practices to it's local Dallas-Fort Worth beer selections, there is a supportive, community feel in this place. 

.During my stay at The Joule, I visited the restaurant for both brunch and dinner, as they had a gluten-free menu available for any time of day. The staff was very attentive and sensitive to my gluten-free and dairy-free dietary restrictions. 

The mix of the delicious, casual fare and the understated beauty in the restaurants architecture and design made for an extremely pleasant experience. A definite recommendation to those visiting the area. While I enjoyed CBD for both brunch and dinner, I preferred dinner, as I enjoyed getting dolled up and coming here with my husband for date night. For brunch, I prefer lighter fare and patio seating when it's pleasant weather. But overall, it was a wonderful, delicious experience. 

Location:  
The Joule Dallas | 1530 Main Street  |  Dallas, Texas 75201
Hours: 
M-T  7am to 10pm  |  F-S  7am to 11pm  |  Sunday  7am to 9pm
Contact: 
214.261.4500

Tranquil sounds of water, heavenly fragrances and spa luxury just makes a girl happy. 

At least, they make this girl happy, very happy. In my opinion, a true vacation doesn't reach peak vacation satisfaction until I'm massaged, lathered and buffed into bliss. There is something about surrendering yourself to the relaxing environment and leaving your cares and worries at the door, that makes it a peaceful and rejuvenating experience. One that is healing to the body, mind and soul. 

Upon my visit to The Joule, I visited their ESPA Spa. A self-professed subterranean escape in urban Downtown Dallas. Upon entering the expansive lobby you're greeted by friendly staff who are there to help make your visit truly special. Stone walls, a warm rich color palette and white florals greet you as you take a seat in their inviting living room styled-waiting area and begin your relaxation journey.

Guests can also browse the spas full line of lotions, oils and skincare products that are featured in their treatments as well as in the hotels guest rooms. I've never smelled so good. 

The unique way in which you experience ESPA is unlike the typical hotel spa. ESPA offers services in time increments, customizing your two, three or four hour visit with services that would be more beneficial to you during your stay. 

Their menu offers a vast selection of options to choose from and they hire the most highly trained and gifted therapist in estheticians, ensuring a professional and satisfying experience for every client. From signature therapies and body treatments, to massages and skin care, there are many services to choose from in creating your day of bliss. 

The spa also offers many beauty options such as mineral makeup application and nail services. And men are not forgotten, ESPA offers face and body treatments for men as well. 

Location: 
1611 Main Street   |   Dallas, Texas 75201
Hours:
Daily 9am-8pm
Contact: 
[email protected] | 214.261.4555

This weekend, Mr. Charming and I traveled to Dallas, Texas on a writing assignment. From Friday night to Sunday night we were on the go, actually going nearly 36 hours without sleep for part of it, making it a hard schedule to follow when it comes to "me time". From museums and cultural centers, to tranquil gardens and delicious eateries, our schedule was packed with places to review and enjoy while "me time" looked like a distant possibility for us to take. 

As I am always speaking on ways we need to disconnect and relax at home, I am a firm believer that the same applies when we travel.

Possilbly even more so.

From the stress of airport security, catching flights and the constant movement of travel, to the changes in our diet, climate changes and the rigorous schedule of sightseeing or working, it can take a toll on us physically, mentally and spiritually. Which is why its crucial for us to relax, refresh and reboot. Even while on "vacation".

Luckily, I had some of my favorite reading material, Real Simple Magazine and Sunset Magazine, packed in my bag from my trip to Safeway for entertainment on my down time. I am a fanatic when it comes to getting to the airport with plenty of time, so once we got through security, we settled in, grabbed a salad and I got to enjoy some me time to prepare for what was a crazy busy weekend. 
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Mr. Charming and I want to plan more trips for 2016 and Sunset had an article on Northern California's best sights, which was perfect because we are planning a San Francisco trip as one of our next stops. It was a great resource to start thinking of our next trip.

We got into Dallas super early. As in, our plane emerged from the sky long before the sun did, so we headed straight to our hotels' coffee shop that, thankfully, opened early. While Mr. Charming started photographing parts of the hotel for me, I got to enjoy more me time as I sipped my vegan latte, flipping through the rest of Sunset and dreaming of more travel. A delicious morning!

It was an amazing weekend overall and we got to see a lot of what Dallas has to offer. Historically, culturally, their cuisine and their friendly residents, it was all a great sampling of what the great state of Texas has to offer. 

Throughout the weekend I made time to cut-out more little pockets of me time. From sitting by the pool taking in the view of downtown to relaxing in our room while Mr. Charming went and picked up breakfast on Sunday. I was intentional in relaxing and I got caught up with Real Simple to get fall recipes and decor ideas, as when we get home, fall planning will be in full swing!

​Either at home or when you travel, how do you take "me time"?  Share in the comments below!

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