Peaches and Green - A Trusted  Specialty Health Store

Have you ever gone to a health food store, drug store or supplement shop in hopes of finding supplements, foods and information that will help you reach your goals? Have you ever gotten there and felt overwhelmed with mass amounts of products, foods and bottles? We all have had that experience. I know I have in the past and my current clients get this feeling all the time. Its hard when you are new to the healthy lifestyle to know what you should or should not be taking. I have had little to no help from the staff at these places.

As a personal trainer I know I want my clients to take good clean, tested and high quality products. I often give them a list of options and they still end up emailing, face booking or texting me from the store because the person behind the counter is telling them something different that I did. And most often times the information is wrong. I want to send my clients to a well established business but also where the staff is knowable, helpful and not just trying to sell you the most expensive product so that they can make a better commission.

According to their site "At Peaches & Green, we want our customers to feel confident that every product they purchase has been thoroughly reviewed for its integrity and efficacy. As one of the leading boutique health food stores in Toronto, we carry a wide variety of nutritional supplements, botanical remedies, and homeopathics. We also have a carefully selected assortment of therapeutic skin & body care, as well as delicious whole foods chosen especially for those with food sensitivities and dietary restrictions.

We support suppliers and manufacturers in our industry who are leaders in product innovation and research. Like us, they share a commitment to protecting our environment, and promoting the health of the individuals in the communities we work and live in. Visit our Products page for a complete list of the brands available. Peaches & Green is a proud Health First Network Member store - learn more about Canada's leading independent health & wellness retailers here."

I discovered Peaches and Green a few weeks ago when I was contacted to go in and experience the shop for myself. I said yes and made my way east where they are located on 1561 Bayview Avenue in Toronto. Peaches & Green is a specialty health food store in Toronto dedicated to supporting individuals on their path to wellness through natural health products and education. Located in the heart of Leaside, we have been the top destination for natural health and wellness products for over 25 years. I was greeted immediately by a smiling woman named Elizabeth and then George the owner. They were smiling and friendly from the start. Its always nice to have a warm welcome. They told me about the history of the store, the types of products that they carry and they really seemed to have a passion and desire to help give people good knowledge and help them get towards their goals. George was so intelligent about the products and the science behind them. I also discovered he knows a lot of Toronto health professionals that I know and respect. This is comforting and just really shows what 25 years of experience can provide.

After speaking with both George and Elizabeth and getting to experience the store first hand I high recommend that you shop for your health food products at Peaches and Green.  I left with some new protein, himalayan sea salts and lots of yummy samples. If you go to do you health food shopping at Peaches and Green you won't feel lost and you will leave confident that you have got the products that you need to help you get to where you want to go!

Thank you Peaches and Green for serving our community so well. I wish you all the success in the world for the next 24 years!

If you have any inquiries or want to check out the store yourself:

Fits is hosting an event that is focused on sports injury prevention. It is a one hour seminar with Dr. Thomas Lam, who is known as a specialist in his field and has worked with various athletes from the NBA, NHL and Olympic team. This is a free event, and we are trying to raise public awareness on the importance of a healthy lifestyle as well as preventative measures on sports injuries, rehabilitation and proper development. www.fitstoronto.com

Information is below:

Brass Vixens - Pole Fitness - Toronto

This week I was invited by Brass Vixens Pole Fitness to try out a class. At first I was hesitant because dancing of any kind is not my forte. One of my friends that I was speaking with on the phone said that I would probably be better than I was thinking I would be. So I decided what did I have to lose? I accepted the invitation and see what Brass Vixens was all bout.

From the moment I accepted signing up on their site was easy! Once I had a profile name I could browse through all of their locations and classes. The problem was that I have a very busy schedule. But guess what they had classes at all different times of day across all of their locations. I found a 12pm class that was perfect for me to attend at their location on Yonge Street. The class was beginner pole. I even received a friendly reminder of my class that I booked. Which is great since I do so many things in a day. I really like their booking feature and this was just icing on the cake!

I arrived at the address and was a little confused because the building read Seductions (and adult entertainment store). I walked in and asked where Brass Vixens was and the women was super nice and told me they were located on the 3rd floor. It would have been nice to know when I received my booking confirmation that this is where it was located. But it was easy to find non the less.

I was created with a friendly smile at the front desk by "Lady Kori" she was very friendly and totally made me comfortable. She took the time to show me the changing room, washroom and explain where to put my bags. I sat and waited patiently for the class to start and it started promptly at 12pm. It was a full class and some people had to share a pole.

Let me just say this: I LOVED EVERY ONE OF THE SONGS ON HER PLAYLIST! Music makes a workout for me so thank you Kori for an awesome play list. Since it was beginner pole we had what I thought was an extended warm up but she made it fun and sexy without it being over the top. All the moves were fun and her choreography flowed so well the whole class. The only thing I did not enjoy that much but I think everyone else did was the free style at the end of the class. She turned on a song and told us to free style. Since this was my first class I only knew what she did in the class so I was a bit so so about the freestyle. I just practiced what I learned while what seemed like everyone else did more advanced moves and really knew how to move. I just felt a bit out of place but it was still fun! I did not get a chance to take photos due to the privacy of the other attendees and there was another class directly after mine so I couldn't take any after either.

After my session I even got an email asking for my class review and to provide feedback. Great for business! I also got a Welcome to Brass Visens email saying that they hoped I enjoyed my class yesterday! After I filled out the feedback I earled "5 points." I assume this is a rewards program that they have. What a great incentive.

Overall I absolutely loved my experience at http://brassvixens.com and I would totally recommend it to anyone looking for a good experience. Don't be scared or intimidated and just go in and have fun with it. Kori is a great instructor and I would definitely attend another class of hers! Thank you Brass Vixens for such a wonderful first pole experience. If you are in the Toronto area check them out!

Alicia Bell in Muscle Memory Mag

Have you seen me in the latest issue of muscle memory magazine. There is a full three page feature and interview. You can also view it online at www.musclememorymag.com What an honour to have such a great feature and thank you Ayze photos for the great images.

The League

Welcome to the future. If you are in the Toronto area you can found any professional that you want in the city and book with them using this app. The app boasts that you can find the best professionals and services you need to live a healthier, happier life – every day. Massage therapists, personal trainers, nutritionists, chiropractors and more! Book a free consultation with one of our trusted providers. LEAGUE offers the widest selection of health services in a single app. Our PROs are hand-picked, verified and ready to help you live a happier, healthier life - every day.

I have tested out The League over the past week. I have booked, changed, cancelled and attended sessions. My first being a Massage Therapy session. Not only was it easy to book with the woman I chose but she also sent me some nice emails back and forth making the app more personable. The only thing that I have found is that some of the professionals on the app have a schedule that is not in sync with the leagues calendar. So for my massage she had to switch my time (not a big deal). In case you are wondering who the massage therapist was her name is Tu Anh Luong and she did a great job (trust me I have had my fair share of athletic massages) and she was awesome. She is located at 1 St. Clair Avenue East. I highly recommend her and I am very glad that I found her.  I even booked a follow up session with her next week. Just search for her in the app.

I have also booked an appointment with a Yoga instructor (which I am having tomorrow). Her profile was amazing and she even asked me for issues or areas I want to work on so that she can create a program for it. Im really looking forward to stretching out my gluteus and opening up my hips. Her name is MJ Renshaw. You can also find her on the app.

This month and next month I have a chiro, naturopath and a Vitamin B shot booked as well.

The only practice that I had a hard time booking with was pilates. I booked a private session from Misfitstudio. I have heard great things about them and their location looks absolutely beautiful. But shortly after I booked I received a message from the studio manager saying that it was a mistake in the schedule and they had to cancel it. She apologized for the inconvenience but did not ask me if I wanted to reschedule (no big deal) but any other time conflicts I have come across the practitioners were happy to reschedule me. I should take the initiative to ask her if there is another time available but it would have been nice if she would have asked me.

What I also love about the app is that it shows you the practitioners exact location as well as how far away they are from your current location! How cool is that. Also being signed up to the app you get emails with exclusive offers, awesome health tips and articles and an awesome community! And on top of that right now they are offering a special Free health coach for 30 days! 30!!!! DAYS!!! WHATTTT so go sign up and #buildyourleague of professionals!

https://joinleague.com

Consonant Skincare launches deodorant  Dealkalizing Deodorant is 100 per cent natural and guarantees 24 hour odour protection  Toronto ON – After years in development Consonant Skincare today announced the launch of its Dealkalizing Deodorant ($12), created with Bentonite clay and Silk Amino Acids to help absorb moisture and to condition skin. Free of sweat-clogging ingredients often found in off-the-shelf deodorants, Consonant Dealkalizing Deodorant is formulated to bring the pH level of skin to 4.5 - 5.0, inhibiting the growth of odour-causing bacteria. “Virtually every day customers ask us for a 100 per cent natural deodorant that actually works, that you don't have to use your fingers to apply, and that doesn't cost a fortune. We are very proud that Consonant is the first and only brand to have a deodorant that delivers on all three!" said Bill Baker, owner of Consonant Skincare. Users don't have to sacrifice effectiveness to kick the chemicals. In panel testing, Consonant Dealkalizing Deodorant was found to be 100 per cent effective, 100 per cent of the time. Additionally, the traditional stick format means users don’t have to sacrifice convenience to stay odour free all day long. Consonant Skincare’s Dealkalizing Deodorant (75 grams) will be available at www.consonantskincare.com, at both locations (2479 Yonge St. and the PATH at 120 Adelaide St. W., Unit R12) and retailers throughout Canada on Monday, July 20 for $12. Consonant Dealkalizing Deodorant ($12) About Consonant Skincare:  Consonant Skincare has two locations in Toronto. Its flagship store is located at 2479 Yonge St. and its PATH store is located at 120 Adelaide St. W., Unit R12. All of Consonant Skincare’s 100 per cent natural products are created and produced in Canada, and are made with the highest possible concentration of organic botanical ingredients. They are formulated to work in harmony with the body’s natural chemistry to improve the health of skin over time, rather than just covering up irritating symptoms. Skin appears firmer, healthier and younger without the use of synthetic ingredients such as parabens, sulphates, petroleum ingredients, phthalates and silicone. HydrExtreme, a customer favourite, was recently awarded the Grand Prize at the Canadian Beauty Innovation Awards. Store hours:  PATH store (120 Adelaide St. W., Unit R12) Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Flagship store (2479 Yonge St.) Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Website: www.consonantskincare.com Twitter: @Consonant Instagram: ConsonantLife Flickr: High res images of Consonant Skincare products  Hashtag: #ConsonantSummer

Float Stress Relief and Wellness Centre

Last weekend I had the wonderful opportunity to go float at the Float Stress Relief and Wellness Centre 3477 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4N 2M2. My friend and photographer extrodinary Ajani Charles has been talking about it for months so I had to try it for myself. He kindly invited me to go. Upon arrival I loved the calm atmosphere. The owner was very knowledgable and friendly  and talked me through the whole process. He even offered me tea. 10/10 for welcoming atmosphere and knowledge about the idea of floating for stress relief.

The multi-purpose facility features float rooms, which measure 8 ft long x 4 feet wide x 8 ft tall, registered massage therapy and naturopathic doctor services. Each room offered a beautifully laid out area with a shower, towels I even got to choose the nature sound I wanted to float off into relaxation and meditative space. I think its great to be able to choose because what I may find calm and soothing someone else may hate. I also loved that it was an enclosed tank. I wouldn't recommend this if you were clostrophobic. Although you always have the option to leave your door open. The talk starts off with a light that slowly softens and eases you into a good darkness. There were times when I was floating that I fell asleep and when I woke up I would be on the complete opposite side of the tank. Speaking of tanks the tanks are filled with pounds and pounds of epsom salts. So much so that you just float in them. The salts help extract toxins from your body, exfoliate your skin and tons of other good things for you. The water contains close to 1000 lbs. of medical grade Epsom salt (magnesium sulphate), giving the water a relative density of 1.25 (regular water is 1.0, so it’s 25% denser than regular water). But what is the best part of this experience is the pure stress relief that you get from relaxation caused by floating. I have been in the dead sea but in now way was it relaxing with the bright light, heat and other visitors.

Thank you so much for the great experience and I definitely will be implementing floating into my regular Train It Right routine.

They can be found: https://www.facebook.com/comefloat and http://www.comefloat.com

Check out the pictures of my experience below. All photos by: Ajani Charles

Lole - All White Tour Toronto

Last week I had the opportunity to attend the Lole all white tour. I have to say this was a very well run event. I am not a yogi but I definitely enjoyed all of the flow. The two instructors who lead it were amazing. Thank you for inviting me Lole. Not only did I get an invite but Lole dressed me for the event in their line. The event was all white and Ive never actually wore a pair of all white pants. I was a bit hesitant but the pants fit great, felt great and best of all were not see through! Lucky for the 2000 people behind me in attendance wouldn't you say?

I arrived  bit early to check out the show case of Lole's new line, network and take in the entire experience. The Feel Good Guru provided healthy snacks and pressed juices. All were very yummy. Ive tried her juice cleanse before and absolutely loved it (for those of you interested in a juice cleanse).

Oikos also provided greek yogurt and were a sponsor of the event. In our gift bag full of wonderful goodies they had a knife, spoon and fork set and a picnic napkin for us. After our practice they gave us all a vegan lunch to eat on our mat while local talented musicians played for us. Fiji provided the water. It was relaxing and peaceful.

Lole not only gave us a gift bag full of amazing products, gift cards and picnic accessories but they also let us take home the mat that we used! What an awesome take home!

Thanks again for inviting me Lole. It was an experience that I won't ever forget.

Check out my photos below of the experience! Don't you wish that you were there!

Toronto Celebrates Etsy: Made in Canada 
on Saturday, September 26 

Cross-country pop-up marketplace taking place in two Toronto locations, joining 32 other cities nationwide

Toronto, ON – On Saturday, Sept. 26, Etsy: Made in Canada returns, with 33 Canadian cities hosting a one-day marketplace celebrating the Etsy community. In Toronto, be sure to visit MaRS Discovery District (101 College St.) and OCAD University (outdoor market at 100 McCaul St. and indoor market at 49 McCaul St.) from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. to shop your favourite local Etsy sellers.

Toronto’s Etsy Teams are excited to be hosting Etsy: Made in Canada again, with 170 local Etsy sellers at two downtown locations ready to showcase the area’s handmade wares and vintage goods.  Visitors to the MaRS marketplace have the chance to shop favourites like sustainable fashion designs from Vespertine; children’s wool toys from Little Bellwoods; and quirky laser-cut wood broaches from Sous Sous. For a full list of sellers that will be featured at the MaRS marketplace, see the vendor lookbook. Stop off at OCAD for screen-printed paper and stationary from SCTING; colourful hand-dyed wool yarn from Better With Yarn; and minimalistic leather accessories from Aunt Rae.

“This year we're planning an even bigger and better Etsy: Made in Canada pop-up market than last year’s resounding success,” said Ele Willoughby, Team Captain hosting Toronto’s event at MaRS Discovery District. “Our teams are really excited to be hosting this marketplace yet again, and to show off some of the amazing local Etsy talent - artists, artisans and vintage mavens who live and work right here in Toronto. Check out our free DIY workshops and come join us for an amazing show!”

Across Canada, from Salt Spring Island, to Whitehorse, to St. John’s., each market is powered by an Etsy Team, a self-organized group of like-minded sellers, and key partners Moneris, Canada Post and Airbnb. Etsy Teams and their Team Captains ensure each event reflects the city’s individual style and culture, in addition to providing support to members and newcomers looking to start an Etsy shop. Through sharing advice, experiences and resources, Etsy teams help spark inspiration and encourage collaboration among its community.

“Etsy: Made in Canada is our biggest event of the year, taking our online experience offline, to connect sellers, communities and buyers in person,” said Erin Green, Managing Director, Etsy Canada. “With Toronto and 32 other cities participating across the country this year, we couldn’t be prouder of Canada’s commitment to shopping local and supporting its maker communities.”  

Made in Canada is just one of Etsy’s recent offline markets and experiences, having participated in Pride Toronto, Calgary Stampede and WayHome Music & Arts Festival this year alone, allowing sellers to engage in their community and meet customers face-to-face. Throughout the year, Etsy helps local Etsy Teams and Captains organize the event by offering a two-day “boot camp” training session for all team captains in Toronto; supplying a PR tool kit on how to locally promote the event; providing tips on how to secure a venue and attract local sellers, in addition to ongoing marketing and public relations support.

This year’s second annual Etsy: Made in Canada event is sure to demonstrate the vibrant communities to be found in every pocket across the country.

For more information about Toronto’s Etsy: Made in Canada, visit the MaRS Discovery District vendor lookbook or Etsy Local for MaRS and OCAD University.

Etsy fans unable to visit a nearby Made in Canada marketplace can shop participating vendors from across the country on Etsy.com/madeincanada and year-round on Etsy.com.

About Etsy:
Etsy is a marketplace where millions of people around the world connect, both online and offline, to make, sell and buy unique goods. The Etsy ecosystem includes creative entrepreneurs who sell on our platform, thoughtful consumers looking to buy unique goods in our marketplace, responsible manufacturers who help Etsy sellers grow their businesses and Etsy employees who maintain our platform and nurture our community. Our mission is to reimagine commerce in ways that build a more fulfilling and lasting world, and we’re committed to using the power of business to strengthen communities and empower people.

Etsy was founded in 2005 and is headquartered in Brooklyn, New York.

Website: Etsy.com
Twitter: @EtsyCA
Facebook: EtsyCA
Instagram: @EtsyCA
Hashtag: #EtsyMadeinCanada