“New year, new you.”
We’ve all heard those words. So, we’re over one-twelfth of the way into the new year. How’s the new you?
Did I hear a “womp, womp?” Yeah, same.
Let’s just agree to think of January as a warm-up for what’s to come, shall we? I mean, even the experts agree. Chris Bennett, Nike Running’s global head coach, told The New York Times last month that he has one piece of advice on New Year’s resolutions: Don’t do them.
Instead, he said, “double down on the healthy habits you already have and then celebrate them.”
For sure you did something healthy in January, right?
Perhaps you tried a new workout? Or, maybe at least read about one?
Did you do Dry January? Perhaps Dry Jan. 2?
If you didn’t adopt a completely healthy diet, did you try a new recipe for a healthier dish or two?
Whether it’s January or February — and all the way through the end of this year, businesses in the Spring Branch District are offering up ways to restart that journey wherever it may take you, whether it’s to a healthy, healthier or a “healthyish” you.
No need to go for a whole new you. The old you is great. But, check out some ways you can add a little dose of wellness to your life while also supporting local:
Try a new workout
There are a number of locally owned businesses offering personalized fitness training and/or yoga and other classes in Spring Branch.
Hotworx at 1473 Wirt Rd., features infrared saunas in which clients can perform high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and isometric workouts, while Warren-T Fitness, 8141 Long Point Rd., offers a myriad of training options, including one-on-one and group classes.
Also, check out Max-imum Fitness and Health, 8330 Long Point Rd., or Lifts Gym, 2305 Bingle Rd., where the business of working out is a family affair.
The Texas Rock Gym,1526 Campbell Rd., boasts a state-of-the-art facility that includes the main climbing area.
Meanwhile, the folks at Soul Tribes Yoga + Meditation, 8151 Long Point Rd., are ready to work your body, breath and mind.
Other local options for fitness (hint: many offer a free intro class!):
Houston Strength
9025 Ruland Rd.
Brenda and John Duncan YMCA
10655 Clay Rd.
Blink Fitness Spring Branch
7840 Long Point Rd.
Mekanix Gym – Spring Branch
8939 Long Point Rd.
Golden Age Fitness & Training
1914 Gessner Rd.
Sip a healthier concoction
Healthy Start Nutrition, 2755 Gessner, in the H‑E‑B shopping center across the street from another fitness studio — LA Fitness — is offering power-packed protein meal replacement shakes.
The shakes provide as much protein as four eggs (and probably at a lower price), as much Vitamin E as 25 whole almonds, as much fiber as a small apple, as much calcium as 11/2 cups of cottage cheese, as much Vitamin A as 1/3 cup of broccoli, and with only as much sugar as half a banana.
Order ahead by calling 281-552-8126.
Go naked
Please don’t actually go naked around the Spring Branch District. But, please do order your sandwiches “naked” at Stuffed Belly, 8133 Long Point Rd.
Order two scoops of their Humpty Dumpty egg salad without the bread for a gluten-free, keto-friendly meal or snack. You can also get their Tuna Crunch without the bread. For even less carbs, ask for no chips but, remember, we’re not going for perfect here.
Go vegan, or a little vegan
Not only was it ranked among the best vegetarian eateries in Houston by the Houston Chronicle, but vegan Mexican restaurant Cascabel, 1415 Murray Bay St., was also ranked one of the healthiest restaurants in the area by Yelp with an estimated “health score” of 92 out of 100
Check out this local favorite. We promise you won’t be missing the meat by the time you’re done with one of their delicious taco platters.
Get centered
Spring Branch Community Health Center (SBCHC), with a location in the Spring Branch District at 8575 Pitner Rd., has a dedicated team of licensed professionals available to support you with diet and nutrition guidance, as well as mental and emotional health services. No need to do it alone!
Head to the market
Nourish Market, 1260 Blalock Rd., sells vitamins, supplements, groceries, cosmetics, and beauty supplies — everything you need to look and feel great with some retail therapy mixed in.
Hit the trail
The second phase of the long-awaited Spring Branch Trail is nearly complete with a ribbon-cutting and celebration to be scheduled soon.
Notable features of the Spring Branch Trail include neighborhood trail connections at Gessner, Triway Lane, and Shadowdale Drive, as well as a connection to Harris County Precinct Three’s existing Emnora Trail, which is from Gessner to Northbrook High School.
Even if you stop by for just a quick jaunt, you’ll be doing your heart good right here in the Spring Branch District, which also happens to be the “heart of Houston.”
— Dorothy Puch Lillig
