The Health Shoppe is a family-owned, health-conscious, grocery store with a focus on its customers eating well, living well, and staying well. Located at their newly renovated store at 1378 Yonge St., they’re continuing their 25+ years in business as this area’s quintessential, independently owned healthy eating store. The Yonge + St. Clair intersection already boasts 3 major grocery chains within short walking distance – including Sobey’s, Loblaws, and Longos’ – The Health Shoppe helps complete that picture in carrying the specialty health items that you’d want to find in a boutique setting. Best of all, it’s a short walk from the St. Clair Subway station. The store remains elusive on social media, so you’ll have to see for yourself what’s currently stocked and shelved.

With The Health Shoppe, don’t let its categorization as a “boutique store” fool you into thinking that it’s a small store. A visit to its well-stocked aisles paints a different picture. State of the art refrigerators line the grocery section, boasting everything from today’s pick of kombucha, to Canadian-made organic, gluten free, plant based soups. Or, turn the corner and find a great selection of ground herbs and spices organized into help-yourself jars. If you want to find a guilt-free snack, you’ll get it here too. Of course, to get to this section you’ll have to use a small passageway that’s tucked away near the entrance, which might not be what you’d initially expect when strolling past the storefront. 

At the front of the store you’ll find rows of supplements, incense, essential oils, eco-friendly cleaning supplies and the list goes on. Yes, there are lots of great finds you can take home to stock your shelves and cabinets and best of all when you shop here you get that special, hand-selected feeling of curating your home supply of feel-good buys.

We asked the owner, Andrea Szomor if she’d have any health tips she’d like to share with the public – she politely declined, preferring to speak about the products her store carries to avoid any accidental misinterpretation of any advice she could offer. From her selection of products – and a great example of the selection available in-store – is an immune boosting supplement that’s made primarily of mushrooms: a blend of shiitake, red reishi, cordyceps, coriolus, maitake and agaricus. It’s all gluten-free, vegan, and non-gmo. Of course, consult with a health care professional to see if this is something that’s appropriate for you. Products like this one line the shelves inside and the variety is endless items. 

When the health precautions were announced earlier this year in response to COVID-19, the Health Shoppe remained one of the only neighbourhood stores in operation thanks to grocery establishments being considered an essential service. They’ve stayed strong, and are now contributing to diligent health measures in the form of hand-crafted face masks. One of the team members has taken to creating these herself, using designs and fabrics to capture a “nerd-chic” mask including Star Trek designs, and other fan favourite pop culture references. They’re affordable and re-useable retailing around $8.95.

A Photographic Tour of the Health Shoppe

It’s easy to miss the gems hidden in plain sight at the Health Shoppe, due to the large variety of goods and store layout. So we’re here to highlight the store’s various sections so you can more easily find what you’re looking for.

The new Health Shoppe location features its own grocery section, hidden to the right of the main entrance. The way The Health Shoppe team has compartmentalized its multiple categories of goods makes for some easy shopping.

You’ll find a selection of all your go-to grocery needs to support a healthy, green lifestyle. The shelves feature goods you may not find at your traditional big box grocery, which makes browsing their aisles a treat. Their diversity of selection makes it feel like a gem in the Yonge + St. Clair neighbourhood.

Their cleaning supplies are focused on eco-friendly goods, with a wide variety of cleaning items to meet your household and every day needs.

You can stock up on supplements and other immune system boosting goods, with numerous shelves and goods that will help you feel great and stay healthy. Talk to the staff about the supplements you’re looking for, and for assistance navigating their supplement section.

With the recent COVID-19 health measures, the team at The Health Shoppe have taken it into their own hands to create custom face masks which are for sale at their storefront. These masks feature double-sided designs with pop culture references and other chic designs.

The Health Shoppe is holistic in its approach to a healthier lifestyle, featuring items that focus on self-care and relaxation as well. Don’t forget to visit their sections dedicated to aromatherapy and household wellness that lean towards lifestyle goods.

Essential oils are on full display by the checkout line, where the sheer variety will keep you busy as you look for your ideal mix of products.

Be sure to take a peek at their refrigerated items, which include a great selection of organic, gluten-free and non-GMO items throughout.

If you’ve never been to the original Health Shoppe’s location, their new location and setup is perfect to explore and makes it a must-visit shopping destination that’s essential to your next Yonge + St. Clair visit.

To find The Health Shoppe, go to 1378 Yonge St. Or you can visit their website to learn more: http://healthshoppetoronto.com/

Yonge + St. Clair wants you to stay healthy and safe this Valentine’s season, and we’re helping you celebrate with your partner, best friends, or family members, through an online and socially-distanced Valentine’s themed contest.

Starting February 8th visit the contest link: https://playr.gg/giveaway/bHG9UP2 and follow the instructions on the page for your chance to win a 1 of 3 giveaways!

How to play for your chance to win:

1. Visit https://playr.gg/giveaway/bHG9UP2/ to join the contest for free.
2. Follow instructions at the above link to subscribe to the Yonge + St. Clair newsletter, which will unlock more contest entry options.
3. Earn more entries by subscribing to the local business pages linked on the contest page.
4. Contest winners will be determined by a draw, and announced across Yonge + St. Clair pages and channels by March 2, 2021.

Marylene Vestergom, a local freelance writer and marketer, had a conversation with Paul Franzese, owner, RUCCI Menswear in the Yonge + St.Clair neighbourhood about menswear trends and how small businesses are taking it day-by-day.

Marylene has generously contributed this article to the Yonge + St. Clair BIA to spotlight how local businesses have been responding to the challenges brought about by COVID-19. 

As COVID continues to impact our the neighbourhood’s small businesses, spending and shopping habits have changed. Even the fashion industry has taken a hit. The question remains: will COVID set a new trend as a fashion indicator of these times? 

In the 1920s, economist George Taylor of the Wharton School of Business penned the term Hemline Index. It was his observation that the hemlines in women’s fashion were a direct correlation to the economy.  When the economy was booming – think mini-skirts. And during the depression and during economic downturns – hemlines dropped. From miniskirts to midis.

COVID has meant ZOOM calls and working from home. Will PJs and yoga clothing be the new uniform of choice in these pandemic times? Paul Franzese, owner of Rucci Menswear at Yonge and St. Clair, does not believe dressing well is a thing of the past. In fact, he’s hoping the pocket square in a fitted sports jacket will be replaced by a coordinated face mask, and he sees the face mask becoming a fashion index for our times. “We just have to ride out this nightmare, and our customers are helping us do just that. That’s what makes the Y+S neighbourhood special.”

Marylene Vestergom, Yonge + St.Clair: How long have you been in the Y&S area and why Y&S?

Paul Franzese: Since 1994, so 27 years. Originally, we were in Little Italy, but as the neighbourhood changed, we needed to find a location that catered to a more sophisticated clientele. This area of the city was ideal, and it allowed us to expand from 600 square feet to 2500. We cater to professional businessmen in their 30s, 40s, 50s plus. They have established their roots in this neighbourhood. It’s an expensive area of the city; with that comes a discerning clientele, and Rucci Menswear fits the bill and their lifestyle.  

MV, Y+S: What makes this neighborhood special?

PF: The people who live here. They come from all walks of life. You never know who will walk through the door. The best part is we’ve been a part of their journey — from CEOs, hockey players, singer Robert Palmer, and former Prime Minister John Turner was one of our customers. I even dressed CBC News legend Peter Mansbridge.  It was my honour to sell the suit he wore for his last evening broadcast on CBC’s The National. 

MV, Y+S: Why men’s fashion? 

PF: I have always loved the fashion industry. In fact, earlier in my career I used to model and I loved being involved in fashion shows. In fact, when the Yonge and St. Clair Centre first opened, I did their first fashion show. Those were good times! 

MV, Y+S: What can your customers expect when they visit Rucci? What are your COVID procedures?

PF: We adhere to all the protocols from Health Canada. We sanitize our hands and have hand sanitizers available.  We wear masks, we sanitize anything they touch including our entrance/doors etc., and if they try on anything that is in contact with bare skin, we put it aside for a day or two.

MV, Y+S: How has COVID impacted your business?

PF: We are very fortunate, as we have a lot of loyal customers. They know this pandemic has hit us hard. Some will drop by and pick up a few things even though they don’t need anything. That’s what makes this neighborhood and our clientele pretty special. Some will just call to see how we’re doing. They miss not being able to just drop by – especially some of our older customers. 

MV, Y+S: Has the style of your customers evolved since COVID? 

PF: It’s more dress casual. You can’t go wrong with a good tailored sports jacket from Italian designer Paul & Shark, some nicely fitted jeans, a great shirt with loafers or a flat boot. Our customers have put their suits on hold, but when they buy something from Paul & Shark, they get a smart, elegant cut that’s not only stylish but comfortable to wear. 

MV, Y+S: What is the one item of clothing every man needs?

PF: At Rucci we pride ourselves on providing a pulled-together look. Every man needs a nice sport jacket, which you can interchange with three slacks, three sports shirts. The look is clean and will always look impeccable, and it will take you through that ZOOM call or a quick shopping trip for groceries. These are times when you need to feel good, and getting out of your sweats is the first step to breaking out of that routine. If you look good – you’ll feel great, and everyone needs a boost.

MV, Y+S: What does the fall/winter season look like?

PF: Funny you should ask. What fall? Manufacturers were closed for the most part, so whatever we’re getting now is limited. What I can say is, we see a lot of muted greys, burgundy, olive greens and browns with blue overtones. Also, sweater jackets are big right now as everyone is embracing the cooler temps. And everyone should have a few scarves in their wardrobe. A nicely knotted scarf is a great way to finish your look. 

MV, Y+S: Last Words

PF: We always say – you need something. Not, do you need something? We exchange a good laugh with our customer over that one. And they’ll buy a pair of pants. These are very hard times. I’ve been in the retail game for 40 years and forecasting was second nature, but with COVID – we have no idea. Thank God the landlord is working with us. When we had to pay spring, we worked something out. Everybody is helping because they want us to stay in business – but it’s not easy. We couldn’t do it without the support of our loyal clientele, and that’s a sign of how special the Y+S community is. 

As for the future:  Truth is – we don’t know what’s happening tomorrow. Retail is tough at the best of times, but at least you could forecast. With COVID – it’s day-by-day. If things don’t open up, we won’t be getting the usual business. No one is travelling or going to special events – but today, our door is open. You need something!

Visit Rucci Menswear at 1426 Yonge Street or call 416. 975.5330

Thank you to all the participants who took park in this curbside holiday event at Yonge + St. Clair! And Congratulations to all 5 of the weekly winners: Tambler CK, the Berry Christmas Clan, Elaine S, Laurence B, and Darya K! 

Runs from Friday November 27, 2020 until Saturday January 2, 2021

The Windows of Glam is a socially distanced wintertime scavenger hunt in the Yonge + St. Clair neighbourhood.

Visit the holiday window displays at participating storefront locations and complete all 13 scavenger hunt questions to be entered for a chance to win $500 in weekly prizes, and a chance to win the final grand prize draw of a $100 Yonge + St. Clair gift card.  The earlier you complete all the questions, the more chances you’ll earn to win the recurring weekly draw.

Interactive and festive, this entirely self-guided event is the perfect way to get out of the house with your family or housemates and support Yonge + St. Clair stores and shops throughout the winter season.

How to Play

STEP ONE
GET your copy of the scavenger hunt map and questions from a participating storefront location (see below) or download the Goosechase scavenger hunt app and search for “Windows of Glam: Winter Scavenger Hunt” or enter Game Code 97LZ54 on your iPhone in the official Apple App Store here, or for your Android in the Google Play Store here to play directly from mobile.

Alternatively, you may save and print the full scavenger hunt map and questions using this link: Windows of Glam Scavenger Hunt and Map

STEP TWO
VISIT each participating location in order to complete all 13 scavenger hunt questions. Answers to the questions are based on storefront displays or features that are only visible when you visit each location.

STEP THREE
SUBMIT your completed questions to any participating storefront location, or send a photo of your completed map to info@yongestclair.ca.

If you’ve completed the scavenger hunt through Goosechase, simply await weekly prize announcements.

Check your email for updates, or follow our social media accounts on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to see if you’ve won the prize draws.

Please note: The earlier you submit your completed map, the more chances you will earn to win the recurring weekly prize draw.

Participating Locations

Pick up or drop off your Windows of Glam scavenger hunt map at these locations:

Open each location link to view in Google Maps.

A) Midtown Gastro Hub – 1535 Yonge St.
B) Ambiyan on Yonge – 1560 Yonge St. (First Floor Plaza)
C) Tim Hortons on Yonge – 1521 Yonge St.
D) Shoppers Drug Mart – 1507 Yonge St.

E) St. Clair Centre – 2 St. Clair E
F) Kaltenbock – 2 St. Clair E (Ground Floor)
G) La Barista Cafe – 2 St. Clair E (Bottom Floor)
H) Marquess Jewelers – 2 St. Clair E (Bottom Floor)

I) Tim Hortons on St. Clair – 55 St. Clair W
J) Zelden’s Deli – 1446 Yonge St.
K) Oxford Learning – 44 St. Clair E

L) 81 St. Clair E – Indoor Mall
M) AVA Pharmacy – 81 St. Clair E (Indoor Mall)

N) Paperboy Cards and Gifts – 7 Pleasant Blvd.
O) Bombay Roti – 1404 Yonge St.

Tag and share your photos using #WindowsOfGlam

As part of the ongoing #WellnessYSC series at Yonge + St. Clair, we wanted to explore the modern myths about psychotherapy. We spoke with the founder of Straight Up Health, Jen Peacock who leads the therapy clinic at 2 St. Clair W, to learn more about the current views surrounding the practice and how the industry as a whole is making new ground in becoming an essential part of everyday self-care and healthy living.

Straight Up Health has an expert team that delivers therapy that’s fresh and relatable to the Yonge + St. Clair neighbourhood both in-person and virtually.

What you’ll find in this article: A Q+A about modern therapy, an actionable checklist for mental wellbeing, and an intro to the Straight Up Health clinic space.

Defining Modern, Mental Health

Yonge + St. Clair (YSC): What is therapy?

Jen Peacock, Straight Up Health (JP): Psychotherapy or “therapy”  is a collaborative process between a client and mental health practitioner that is aimed at treating emotional and mental health issues. Therapy can be provided by a range of licensed professionals such as psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and counsellors. There are many different kinds of therapy including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT); Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT); Dialectic Behavioural Therapy (DBT); and Narrative Therapy. Regardless of the modality, one of the most important aspects of therapy is the therapeutic alliance. The therapeutic alliance is a working relationship between a therapist and their client which is aimed at benefiting the latter. A good therapeutic alliance is characterized by three essential qualities–an emotional bond of trust, empathy, genuineness and respect; an agreement on the tasks and objectives of treatment; and collaboration and mutuality. Although many factors impact whether or not therapy will be beneficial for the client, studies have consistently shown that the quality of the therapeutic alliance is the number one predictor of positive therapeutic outcomes.

YSC: Can you tell us about your practice and the timeliness of what you offer to a modern, Toronto population that may be experiencing a need for it – especially given the current state of at-home working, and lifestyle changes?

JP: Straight Up Health is a mental health, wellness and development clinic located here at midtown Toronto (Yonge + St. Clair) and virtually across Ontario. We offer accessible and empowering mental health care to teens, young adults and families. Our team of Registered Social Workers and Psychiatrists are highly specialized in supporting this demographic using a wide range of therapy modalities.

We work to break down stigma and normalize support, providing connective therapy options based on individual needs. Each client is matched with a therapist based on their unique preferences, needs and goals, because with therapy, fit is everything. Once matched, we set up a free consultation call with the best fit therapist for you. The process is quick, seamless and best of all, we have no waitlist! You can connect with a therapist today.

YSC: What are some of the sociocultural deterrents to accessing mental health care?

JP: Although we have made great strides in addressing the stigma attached to seeking professional help for mental health issues, stigma remains a major deterrent to accessing care. Common stigmatizing myths include the idea that those who seek therapy are weak or flawed. There is a difference between weakness and vulnerability. Vulnerability is about having the courage to show up as you are. Far from demonstrating weakness, being vulnerable enough to ask for support shows great strength. People who seek therapy do so for a variety of reasons ranging from difficult life transitions to complex mental illnesses. All are valid reasons for seeking help.

YSC: Looking ahead to the near future, what’s the upside to communities that give mental health the weight it deserves?

JP: When communities prioritize mental health, they promote healthier relationships between members on an interpersonal and professional level. Receiving mental health support allows people to better care for themselves and others. It also empowers individuals to communicate better and set healthy boundaries. Prioritizing mental health also enables communities to address and interrupt cycles of intergenerational trauma. Intergenerational trauma is a phenomenon where unaddressed trauma-related stress is passed down from survivors onto subsequent generations. It is important to note that community mental health involves more than therapy. It also includes addressing broader structural problems that contribute to mental health issues such as poverty and systemic discrimination.

Wellness to-dos:

YSC: What are some best practices you might recommend for the everyday person to do to keep up with good mental health – maybe an actionable checklist?

JP: Here are six everyday things that someone could do:

1) Develop a practice that enables you to feel and process your emotions without judgement. This can include a variety of mindfulness activities, such as meditation and grounding exercises. It can also involve regular journaling.

2) Prioritize rest when you can. Productivity is highly valued in our outcome focused culture but prioritizing rest supports your mental health and has the added benefit of improving the quality of your work by fueling creativity and ensuring that you move at a sustainable pace.

3) Develop a regular sleep routine. Maintaining a consistent nightly routine and sleeping at a regular hour will help to enhance the quality of your sleep. Studies consistently show that sleep wellness is critical to mental well being.

4) Try to maintain a healthy diet and engage in regular exercise. A well-balanced diet high in complex grains and rich in fruits and vegetables is known to have mood boosting properties. Regular exercise improves sleep and can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.

5) Build a circle of loving and supportive individuals. This can include family members, friends and coworkers. Human beings are social creatures and we crave love, connection and belonging. Ensuring that we receive that is critical for our mental health.

6) Seek support when needed. Lean on your trusted circle when you are feeling sad, anxious or otherwise overwhelmed. Know that it is okay to seek professional help if you feel like you need the support of a trained practitioner.

Meet the team, owner and explore the space at Straight Up Health.

YSC: Can you highlight or describe some of the various spaces and their function in supporting the work you do with clients?

JP: At our Straight Up Health clinic we have 6 personal therapy rooms, as well as a larger room to facilitate the wellness workshops we run. We also have a waiting area with lots of great snacks to ensure you are energized for your session. Each room is private and confidential, is comfortable and built with the intention of creating a safe space for real talk.

YSC: Let’s talk about the team at Straight Up Health, are there any interesting stories behind the professionals that have helped guide them to pursue the field of mental health? And would you be open to sharing your story leading up to opening Straight Up Health?

JP: My personal story of starting a mental health clinic is based on the foundation of joining the Sick Kids Innovators Group which is a program that engages the next generation of philanthropists to support SickKids Foundation and speedily deploy funds in the areas of most need. Through this, it was glaringly obvious the need for more mental health support and resources, especially when it comes to youth. Youth and parents of youth need to have better access to resources and education about mental health in order to obtain the support they need.

Our team of therapists, psychiatrists and coaches are all educated and experienced in working with the youth demographic, and cover a wide range of modalities. Most of our team also currently work in a mental health capacity in the hospital system or the school system, so their day-to-day experience also lends itself nicely to the work they do in their private practice. Please find more about our team either through our IG account @straightuphealth.ca or our website www.straightuphealth.ca

YSC: Although we might not be able to speak directly to the individual cases, would you share some of the impacts that your team works to accomplish on a daily basis?

JP: At Straight Up Health, we view therapy as a highly collaborative process. Our therapists position clients as the experts on their own lives. As such, the desired impacts of therapy will depend on the values and needs of each client. Some clients may be seeking to understand their triggers; improve their personal relationships; or navigate a particularly challenging life transition. Regardless of the client’s therapeutic objectives, however, our therapists always aim to create a space of safety and support that empowers clients to explore their thoughts and feelings without judgement and address the issues that pushed them to seek help. We also strive to help clients develop the tools and resources they need to navigate the challenges they are facing. An important aspect of this is psychoeducation–i.e. equipping clients with knowledge and information that helps them to better understand and cope with mental health issues.

YSC: And ultimately, the vision of Straight Up Health.

JP: To connect with and support youth in a way that is empowering and accessible through any stage and phase of their mental health journey. Our team is dedicated to providing the tools and strategies to ensure that youth feel heard, seen and valued every step of the way.

YSC: What’s the best way to for someone to get in touch with your team? And are there any ongoing programs that you’d like people to be aware of?

JP: The first step is to reach out via email, phone or website. We can match you with the best therapist and get you set up with a free consultation call. You can also schedule your consultation call directly online through our online booking system.

Email: hi@straightuphealth.ca

Phone: 416-666-5482

Website: www.straightuphealth.ca

Warm up to the heated interior of Oxygen Yoga and Fitness yoga studio located at 1560 Yonge St. which boasts a fitness space that comes equipped with a far-infrared paneled ceiling to bring up the temperature for a refreshing, deep sweat each and every class.

We take a deep dive into the fresh new angle that owner Ronit Wilk and her team brings to the health + wellness scene in the neighbourhood.

What you’ll find in this article: A Q+A about the studio and inspiration for this yoga studio, 5 Tips for healthier living, and an intro to SciArt – the multi disciplinary approach to science and art that inspired this franchise location.

Q+A Explore The Infrared Studio

Yonge + St. Clair (YSC) : Let’s talk about the big, infrared studio you’ve created inside your unit. It’s nothing like we’ve seen before and feels like a tropical retreat the moment you step in. Can you tell us more about it?

Ronit W (RW): It’s not your typical yoga studio! We use far-infrared panels to warm up the room. It helps with detox, relaxation, pain relief, weight loss, skin purification. We also have a state-of-the-art air exchange system that brings fresh air to the yoga studio while people are working out, nobody else has this to my knowledge, and we’ve purchased a fogger to disinfect the studio and the equipment between classes.

YSC: Can you describe how those benefits tie in with how your classes are led?

RW: For each category this is how it works:

Detox – In normal room temperature, the heat hits the skin then penetrates down into the body to eventually heat up your core. In a far-infrared room, the heat bypasses the skin and hits the core temperature and radiates outwards. We target raising that core temperature so that your body is able to release toxins and sweat it out!

Relaxation – The heat promotes relaxation (which you can feel the moment you walk into the heated studio) which in turn helps lower your stress hormones called cortisol. The goal is to balance your cortisol and as a result your thyroid, insulin, testosterone and estrogen will also be kept in balance.

Pain Relief – The heated studio also help in releasing muscle and joint pain by increasing circulation, which in turn lowers inflammation.

Weight Loss – With the increase of your core temperature, your heart rate increases which encourages your body to work harder. Combined with the exercises throughout the duration of our classes, your body works harder to lower your core temperature and that process helps with weight loss.

Skin Purification – Sweating in the additional heat purifies the skin by eliminating toxins from your skin’s pores. Clients notice that their skin becomes clearer, softer, and healthier looking.

YSC: Most guests will notice that you have SciArt pieces framed at the entrance of your studio – they are microscope images – can you tell us more about those?

RW: Those art pieces are images of hormones that regulate mood and emotion! They include the molecules that help us experience joy, optimism – reflecting the focus of our studio’s approach and the benefits of what we bring to clients.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Oxygen Yoga & Fitness (@oxygenyogaandfitness) on Nov 14, 2019 at 6:52pm PST

 

Meet the Owner and Team

YSC: Has your expertise always been in this industry?

RW: I was a scientist at the University of Toronto. I have the designations of BSc / MSc / PhD… For many years I was incredibly engaged in the field and worked for many institutions associated with UofT which included SickKids, Mount Sinai, and the Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research. However, about two years ago, the funding for the lab I worked at simply ran out and I was faced with two options: to continue as a Research Associate in the field or to start something on my own and switch careers. I opted for the latter. I got interested in Art based microscopy images, SciArt.

YSC: It sounds like you must have had a realization of some kind to turn your attention to running a local studio?

RW: For years I had viewed beautiful organisms and cells under a fluorescent microscope and wanted to share those gorgeous images with the world. As I spent more and more time sitting down to design and draw, I wanted to get moving again, and went to the Oxygen Yoga & Fitness near my house with my husband. We immediately fell in love with the classes and felt a positive change in both our bodies and attitudes—this was not your typical yoga and fitness studio.

Once we learned that franchising was an option, the Yonge & St. Clair community in Toronto seemed like the perfect spot to place our studio. After renovating the space for many months and paying attention to all the minute details, we opened in November 2019. We are excited to be re-opened after this 4 month lockdown due to the pandemic. We are back stronger! And I’m running the studio with my husband Daniel.

YSC: Your approach is brought to life by a dedicated team as well, can you tell us what your clients can expect when they come to Oxygen?

RW: We have the best group of instructors and staff. Our goal is to make everyone feel welcomed and not judged. We offer every class for Yoga and Fitness at levels 1, 2, 3 so everyone is welcome. We have a range of classes from “Deep Stretch Relaxation with Candlelight” to “Yoga Flow” to “Power Fusion” to “Tone and Sculpt HIT” and even “Boxing Fusion.” I can say that all of our classes are fun, with great music and it’s all very engaging.

YSC: Are there any special moments you’ve had throughout this journey with the local clients here at Yonge + St. Clair?

RW: I’ve had so many! Even though we haven’t been open for very long, I’ve watched the community grow. Some members and I can talk for hours and it’s incredible to see their journey. For instance, I have a 66-year old member who is a stroke survivor, and prior to the lockdown, she came to OY&F every day. Since we’ve reopened she’s been back every day, and just surpassed the 2 year mark of when she had her stroke. We’ve started friendships here – people who met here and stayed friends. We have families come in, mothers and daughters, couples and work partners. We’re creating our own family here. We also have a lovely lunch crowd that came by almost every day. Some of those members have now informally joined the ‘100 class club’! I find it so impressive that they’ve completed this milestone despite only being open since November 2019.

5 Tips to Better Living

YSC: Can you shed some insight, some tips for living life according to you?

RW: Five tips for a better living: 1) Be present in the moment. 2) Before going to sleep, think about 3 things that you appreciate in your life. 3) Every story has another side… be positive and optimistic. 4) Be empathetic always. 5) Do more yoga and fitness 🙂

Get in Touch with Oxygen Yoga & Fitness St. Clair

YSC: What are some of the best ways for new clients to stay in touch with you?

RW: The exciting thing is we have our own app – Oxygen Yoga & Fitness App – Yonge + St. Clair Location – to book classes and everyone can try us for an entire week of classes for only $10. There’s also an online class series for anyone who can’t make it to the studio: http://oxygenyogaandfitness.com/vs/

We’ve been working very hard with the other Toronto OY&F locations to have online workout sessions and some workshops. Even when the lockdown is over, please look out for full online classes in the near future! You can always check out @oxygenyonge_stclair to learn more or email yonge_stclair@oxygenyogafitness.com to book in-class sessions.

More on SciArt

“Art and science have long shared a common ground; the ground of boundless inquiry about the nature of our existence. It has only been for the past few decades, however, that artists have turned their creative gaze towards the sciences as their sole source of artistic information, inspiration, and conceptualization. SciArt, or science-based art, is the avant-garde of the art world, with an increasing number of artists who hold doctorate degrees in the sciences, who are funded by the NSF, and who hold artistic residencies in scientific institutions such as CERN.” – Julia Buntaine Hoel, Founder of SciArt Magazine – www.sciartmagazine.com

Ronit’s first venture was through SciArt Prints (@sciartprints), a start-up that merged her scientific background with her love for art. You can also use the Instagram link to find printed scarves featuring her SciArt. Alternatively, visit this link to see the website. Some of these art pieces can be found inside the Oxygen Yoga & Fitness location at Yonge + St. Clair, at 1560 Yonge St.

The SciArt featured in the lobby of Oxygen Yoga & Fitness include enlarged, microscopic photography and art of molecules including:

Love: Digital illustration of real Oxytocin crystals, the love hormone.

Joy: Digital illustration of real dopamine crystal, a neurotransmitter related to Joy, focus and pleasure.

Balance: Digital illustration of an Estrogen crystal, important for bone health, sleep, mood and general healthy metabolism.

Health: A Vitamin C crystal image, reminding us that good nutrition is essential for good health.

Optimism: Digital illustration of beta-endorphin, it is a neuropeptide that we produce when we exercise, and when we are happy and laugh.

To explore more art in the Yonge + St. Clair neighbourhood, visit the free, local public art including the Deer Park mural piece by birdO at 1 St. Clair E, the phlegm mural at 1 St. Clair W, and the #WaterfallYSC installation by Studio F-Minus at 1406 Yonge St.

Although travelling to far off destinations may not be in the cards, your feet can be your passport to discovery. And from a wellness perspective, just getting outside can boost your mood, reduce stress, and shake off those cobwebs.

Marylene Vestergom, a local freelance writer and marketer, had a conversation with Jeffrey D Cowen, Chiropodist-Foot Specialist at JD Cowen Footcare to explore the importance of foot health an often-overlooked aspect of self-care that can contribute greatly to one’s health.

Marylene has generously contributed this article to the Yonge + St. Clair BIA to spotlight the impacts of footcare as well as how local practices have been responding to the challenges brought about by COVID-19. 

Marylene Vestergom, for Yonge + St. Clair: Paying attention to the health of your feet should be a lifetime investment. The average active person takes around 7,500 steps a day. And by age 80, they’ll have walked about 216,262,500 steps or around 177,000 km in their lifetime. That’s equivalent to walking about five times around the Earth. 

Jeffrey D Cowen: Your feet are fine-tuned instruments. One of the most overlooked parts of health care is our feet. I try to educate my patients to be more aware of them, by doing some simple checks every so often of toes, toenails, and the bottom of their feet for things like cracked skin or nails that don’t look healthy. And to seek treatment right away. Now more than ever, it’s important to invest in their feet.

MV, Y+S: Are you finding your patients walking more?

JDC: Yes. People need an outlet to keep fit and healthy – mentally and physically, and walking is one of the best remedies. But as we age – gravity is not our friend. Considering the impact our feet endure over our lifetime, it’s not surprising that those over 40 will start experiencing thinning of the fat pads in the heel and ball area. As a preventative measure, I would recommend they don’t walk barefoot on floors, especially if you have dropped arches or a bunion. Your feet have to absorb the pressure coming from the hard floors, and it can lead to more discomfort. 

MV, Y+S: What are some instantly actionable tips that people can do to immediately take care of their foot health?

JDC: Here are some quick tips:

+ When buying shoes always have your foot measured. Sizes differ between brands of shoes – make sure to get the right fit. If running or walking shoes are on offer, check out a specialty store like New Balance which offers orthotic friendly options and professional fit service.

+ Shop for shoes at the end of the day when the feet are most swollen and don’t get too caught up in the shoe size — comfort is more important.

+ To prevent irritations such as blisters, avoid cotton socks, as they can trap moisture. Choose moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics such as nylon, polyester, and spandex. And make sure the sock fits your foot.

+ Moisturize your feet to keep them supple and prevent cracks in the skin.

+ Massage your foot by rolling it over a tennis ball.

MV, Y+S: Let’s talk about your business. How has COVID-19 impacted your business?

JDC: Like many businesses in order to curb the pandemic, we were closed by the Ministry of Health. We re-opened late June, and since that time we’ve been managing a backlog of patients who went without care. This was especially consequential for high-risk patients like those who have diabetes. 

MV, Y+S: How has your clinic changed? 

JDC: Although I offer virtual podiatry care, it is limited, given much of what I do is hands-on and procedural based. I have however, increased my electronic communication with patients, and I try to provide follow-up care via email or phone.  

MV, Y+S: What can your patients expect when they visit you? What are your COVID procedures?

JDC: My clinic is employing all Ministry of Health guidelines in terms of COVID-19 protocols, which include full mask requirements, floor distancing markers, pre-screening before a patient enters the clinic, multiple hand sanitizing stations throughout the clinic, full front desk screen shields to separate the patients from the front desk staff.  Most importantly, I am only seeing two patients per hour in an effort to maintain full distancing between patients. So, I’m seeing half the number of patients per hour; subsequently, each treatment room and the waiting room is fully cleaned/wiped down in between each and every patient with anti-COVID / anti-viral disinfectants.

MV, Y+S: How have your patients been dealing with COVID-19?

JDC: My patients are certainly having a difficult time with home isolation and there is an increased struggle with mental health issues.  I spend extra time with each patient to just talk with them about how they are managing and I often ask patients to email me from time-to-time, just to check in. It’s essential to keep the lines of communication open. 

MV, Y+S: How long have you been in the Y&S area?

JDC: I’ve been in this area for 12 years now, and I’m looking to move my residence to the Y+S neighbourhood based on my comfort and sense of community I feel here.

MV, Y+S: What makes this neighbourhood special?

JDC: The old neighbourhood ‘old Toronto’ feel that pervades each small hub of streets, as well as, the warmth of the people that live here. It’s a slower, down to earth feel here. It’s been heartbreaking to see many businesses have been suffering. That’s why it’s great to see the Yonge + St. Clair community supporting small businesses in the area. We are open for business.

MV, Y+S: Anything else you’d like to say to the community?

JDC: It’s important we don’t take our feet for granted. The sole of the foot contains millions of nerve endings that help to transmit information to our brain on how to balance and react to our surroundings. So, addressing any underlying foot issues helps us age more gracefully. Imbalances are common, and when you add any injuries — even a blister — pain changes the way you move. Your feet are the blueprint to your well-being. If you lose mobility, your health and quality of life will be impacted. So, take care of your feet.

Visit:  JD Cowen Foot Clinic, Balmoral Medical Arts Building @ 1366 Yonge Street, Suite #403 or visit thefootguru.ca or call 416-920-4878

Schools are back in session starting September 15, 2020 across Ontario. To help you get the most of your back to school preparations, we’ve compiled a list of local retail that will cover your school shopping essentials, along with new and interesting points of interest at Yonge + St. Clair.

Shop for School Locally

The Papery
Located at 1424 Yonge St.
thepaperytoronto.com
416-968-0706

Who they are: The Papery offers a range of personalized paper goods but it’s much more than that, it’s a boutique store with a wide variety of products that should keep you busy browsing their selection.

What to shop for: If you’re in the market for something beyond your bulk order variety goods and prefer to have stationery that feels like its truly your own, make this your shop to visit. When you walk in you’ll get a sense that there’s a lot of care given to the categories of paper goods carried here. Recently the Rhodia brand of notebooks they carry have been popular – featuring pages that are lined, blank, graph, or french-ruled to meet all your note-taking needs.

They’ve recently started showcasing more of their products on Instagram, which you can browse here: instagram.com/_thepapery 

Midtown Tech
Located at 1391 Yonge St.
midtowntech.ca
416 925 8324

Who they are: Midtown Tech is Yonge + St. Clair’s neighbourhood authorized Apple retailer and repair shop. It’s a local independent store and you’ll get direct customer care since the owner is often around, assisted by friendly and knowledgeable staff. You can tell these are folks who have an interest in the technology they’re working with.

What to shop for: If you’re shopping for both new and pre-owned Apple goods this is the place to go. And if you’re looking for additional electronic essentials, including attachments to turn your cellphone into a wallet, bluetooth speakers, wireless headphones and more – they have it.

This season they are also offering curbside pickup and service, delivery, and phone orders. See their website for more information: midtowntech.ca

Book City
Located at 1430 Yonge St.
bookcity.ca
416 926 0749

Who they are: Book City is an independent Toronto book chain that offers some of the best book finds for great prices.

What to shop for: From the newest releases to bargain gems, Book City gives you enough selection to create your quintessential book nook. If you’re shopping for kids, they have a dedicated children’s reading section. The shopping experience here is always worth the trip as they frequently update their stock.

Paperboy Cards and Gifts
Located at 7 Pleasant Blvd.
416 926 8622

Who they are: Paperboy Cards and Gifts carries unique finds that are fun and fresh, with a flair for boutique novelty goods.

What to shop for: They are stocked wall to wall with cards, gifts and specialty goods for any occasion, stop by to see what’s in stock!

More Local Services

Oxford Learning Rosedale
Located at 44 St. Clair E – 2nd Floor
oxfordlearning.com
647 691 9283 

Who they are: The Oxford Learning Centre is a local tutoring service to help students advance their Math, Science, English or French skills in the classroom.

What they do: Offering both in-class and online tutoring services, students can advance their skills and gain confidence with key subjects. From exam prep to accelerated learning, you’ll find programs that offer hands-on education.

Forest Hill Orthodontics
Located at 72 St. Clair W
foresthillortho.com
416 921 6772

Who they are: A family focused orthodontics team that’s dedicated to providing the best treatment and solutions to patients of all ages.

What they do: The Forest Hill Ortho team covers all forms of dental care, whether it’s braces or an Invisalign, to same day care, to personalized care and treatment.

Straight Up Health
Located at 2 St. Clair W – Suite 1004
straightuphealth.ca
416 666 5482

Who they are: Straight Up Health is a local team of therapists and social workers who specialize in positive wellness and mental well-being for young adults and adults.

What they do: Providing both in-office and online sessions, Straight Up Health is modernizing the way that young adults can approach mental health, taking a special focus on the productive and positive aspects of supportive therapy.

From August 7 – September 25, 2020 the Yonge + St. Clair BIA welcomes you to enjoy a series of live jazz performances free of charge every Friday afternoon from 12PM – 1PM, at the intersection of Yonge + St. Clair.

Enjoy great live musical duos with a roster of seasoned, local performers.

Schedule

Friday August 7 – Adrean Farrugia  and Chris Gale | Keyboard and Saxophone

Friday August 14 – Lester McLean and Michael Occhipinti | Vocals, Percussion and Guitar

Friday August 21 – Bill McBirnie and Bernie Senensky | Flute and Keyboard

Friday August 28 – Julie Michels and Kevin Barrett | Vocals and Guitar

Friday September 4 – Irene Torres and Eric St. Laurent | Vocals and Guitar

Friday September 11 – Queen Pepper and Eric Boucher | Keyboard and Bass Guitar

Friday September 18 – Alexander Brown and Bernie Senensky | Trumpet and Keyboard

Friday September 25 – Randall Hall and Thompson Egbo-Egbo | Vocals and Keyboard

Please note that this schedule is subject to change, including rescheduling due to inclement weather. Follow Yonge + St. Clair on social media for updates.