Fitness PR Division

As I mentioned in my post on HIIT, now is the time that more people, especially women, will be focusing on pre-holiday diet and exercise to lose at least 10 pounds prior to holiday festivities (which still subsequently results in that that post-holiday resolution of hitting the gym.) And chances are that while we won't see an increase in pre-holiday gym memberships simply due to cost and time, we will definitely see diet books flying off the shelves and an increase in diet program memberships such as Jenny Craig.

Some of the weight loss books that will prove popular are:

Miraval Arizona, the top-rated resort and spa dedicated to helping people live and feel better, is jump starting 2010 by offering four new "Add-ons" which combine a number of Miraval's most celebrated services with the resort's newest offerings. The four new Signature "Add-ons" - Glow, Shine, Duet and Momentum - include a bundled group of services and one-on-one consultations that create a distinct experience and meet guests' specific needs.

Miraval is also offering two new rates- one that caters to those who would rather customize their stay on an a la carte basis, starting at $275 per person/per night, and another that is all-inclusive, including a daily resort credit that can be used for spa services, golf and other premium activities, starting at $375 per person/per night.

"Miraval believes in the power of choice and we want our guests to pick and choose how they spend their stay with us," said Michael Tompkins, General Manager of Miraval Arizona. "Our expert staff helps our guests pick the options that best fit what they would like to get out of their stay, all with the intent to create the most memorable and restorative getaway experience possible."

GLOW

The "Glow" Add-on is ideal for guests looking for an introspective "getaway from the winter chill" and is offered for an additional $399 per person, per stay. "Glow" includes a Miraval Hot Stone Massage, the innovative Soul Journey private consultation and the enjoyment of Miraval's all-new weekly Evening Bonfire.

SHINE

The "Shine" Add-on will make your season sparkle and is offered for an additional $299 per person, per stay. Shine combines the Miraval Antioxidant Infusion Facial, a private astrology consultation and weekly stargazing.

DUET

The "Duet" Add-on was created specifically for couples and is offered for an additional $529 per couple, per stay. The "Duet" includes a Couples "Duet" Massage, a private Partner Yoga session, which helps foster and strengthen intimacy between couples, and chilled sparkling wine upon arrival.

Additionally, couples can take part in Miraval's signature challenges such as Quantum Leap II and Why High, exercises designed to increase trust and build teamwork between partners.

MOMENTUM

The "Momentum" Add-on will be available to Miraval guests beginning December 31st, 2009 - the perfect way to kick off 2010 with renewed vigor and a rejuvenated spirit. Offered for an additional $299 per person, per stay, "Momentum" includes Miraval's brand new Zipline Experience and a Resting Metabolic Rate / Private Nutrition Consultation.

For more information on Miraval's new Signature Add-ons, please visit www.miravalarizonaresort.com.

Wellness Communications: The Chilean actor, author and super dad has joined the Milk Processors Education Program (MilkPEP) to communicate to Hispanic families how drinking three glasses of low-fat or fat-free milk can build strong, healthy families. Cristian, alongside his wife, Angelica Castro, and daughter, Laura de la Fuente Castro, will show off their milk mustaches in the upcoming Hispanic ad campaign, which debuts in print magazines nationwide in January.

"I feel privileged to be able to reach out to all the Hispanic parents and talk about the role milk can play in building strong families. As a family man, I feel it's my responsibility to help build a strong family, both physically and emotionally," Cristian said, "and milk can help."

When gearing up to enter the, to some - namely me, unchartered territory of exercise, it’s useful to have a list of do’s and don’ts on hand. Far from being a checklist of gym (park and sidewalk…) etiquette, I stumbled across an article that claimed to ‘bust’ fitness myths. A starting point. Or, the starting block if you will.

We all know that working out regularly “helps the heart and lungs work more efficiently and improves strength, endurance and flexibility,” but there are still a number of tall tales circulating about exercise.

A rumor doing the rounds is that muscle turns into fat when you stop exercising. The good news is that this is biologically impossible. As muscle and fat are different types of tissue, the two are not interchangeable. True, working out will make you gain muscle, burn calories and in turn, reduce fat. So naturally, when you cease exercising muscles fade away. The reassuring thing is, any new bulges that you notice are not the result of muscle transformation, but the increase in fatty deposits. Nice.

When gearing up to enter the, to some - namely me, unchartered territory of exercise, it’s useful to have a list of do’s and don’ts on hand. Far from being a checklist of gym (park and sidewalk…) etiquette, I stumbled across an article that claimed to ‘bust’ fitness myths. A starting point. Or, the starting block if you will.

We all know that working out regularly “helps the heart and lungs work more efficiently and improves strength, endurance and flexibility,” but there are still a number of tall tales circulating about exercise.

A rumor doing the rounds is that muscle turns into fat when you stop exercising. The good news is that this is biologically impossible. As muscle and fat are different types of tissue, the two are not interchangeable. True, working out will make you gain muscle, burn calories and in turn, reduce fat. So naturally, when you cease exercising muscles fade away. The reassuring thing is, any new bulges that you notice are not the result of muscle transformation, but the increase in fatty deposits. Nice.

Couples seeking romance and a Caribbean vacation do not have to reserve it only for Valentine's Day or weekend this year. The award-winning and eco-friendly luxury Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort has announced the entire month of February will feature their "Valentine's Day Romance Escape" with last minute savings of 40 percent -- rates starting at $239 per night per couple based on double occupancy -- from February 1-28, 2010.* Couples will receive a bottle of champagne upon arrival and chocolate dipped strawberries.

Plus the luxury Caribbean resort is celebrating its 20th Anniversary throughout 2010, so couples will receive a 20 percent discount on spa services at the pampering Spa Serenity; 20 percent discount on a romantic sunset cruise plus a FREE night for anyone celebrating their 20th anniversary. The 20th promotion needs to be mentioned when making reservations.

Cupid will pierce couples hearts with romance at this stunning one-of-a-kind resort that is designed like a Mediterranean village and features sunset view luxurious accommodations in a lush private setting. Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort is a premier property, set on a crescent-shaped, white-sand beach with stunningly designed and appointed villas, many with private pools, and suites spread among 60 exotic and flowering acres on the verdant island of St. Lucia. Windjammer Landing is the perfect retreat for couples and anyone seeking top-level service and amenities.

"Windjammer Landing Beach Villa Resort caters to couples looking for a romantic escape, where special desires are executed flawlessly," notes Anthony Bowen, Windjammer Landing managing director. "February is the perfect time for couples to reconnect and to find romance in paradise, as well as stretch their budget by saving 40 percent with our new 'Valentine's Day Romance Escape.'"

Couples of rockstar status ready to take their relationship to the next level can do so this Valentine's Day at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City.  Whether the road to happiness has been a rocky one, or the duo's journey reads like a steamy romance novel, what better place for soul mates to share their love for each other than at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa on Valentine's Day.  Lovebirds looking to take the matrimonial leap are invited to share their love story for a chance to win the "Ultimate Rock n' Roll Wedding."  One lucky couple with the most rockin' story will receive a once in a lifetime wedding on February 14th at Borgata's premier rock haven, Gypsy Bar. The wedding to remember will be officiated by Rock and Roll Hall of Fame legend and founder of Run-D.M.C., Rev Run.

The winning couple will receive the ultimate rockstar treatment at Borgata. The generous prize package will include a bachelor party for the groom at MIXX nightclub, and a bachelorette party for the bride at mur.mur with entertainment provided by Borgata Nightlife's premier DJ talents Samantha Ronson (mur.mur), DJ MOS and DJ KISS (MIXX), on Saturday, February 13th. On Sunday, the future Mr. and Mrs. will enjoy pampering at The Salon and The Barbershop and pre-wedding access to KID ROCK's performance at the Borgata Event Center for the dynamic duo and up to 12 of their guests. Following the concert, it's off to Gypsy Bar for a late night wedding ceremony with all the trimmings, including a personal photographer, custom cake by Executive Chef Thaddeus Dubois and a most memorable ceremony presided over by Rev Run. Before heading off to the honeymoon suite, the happy couple will enjoy a post-ceremony celebration at MIXX nightclub for the official KID ROCK concert after-party with musical performances by Rev Run and DJ Ruckus.

Couples must enter their submissions online at www.borgatanightlife.com. Complete details on the Ultimate Rock n' Roll Wedding contest, including the prize package components, can be found at http://tinyurl.com/yax3mga.

Couples of rockstar status ready to take their relationship to the next level can do so this Valentine's Day at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City.  Whether the road to happiness has been a rocky one, or the duo's journey reads like a steamy romance novel, what better place for soul mates to share their love for each other than at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa on Valentine's Day.  Lovebirds looking to take the matrimonial leap are invited to share their love story for a chance to win the "Ultimate Rock n' Roll Wedding."  One lucky couple with the most rockin' story will receive a once in a lifetime wedding on February 14th at Borgata's premier rock haven, Gypsy Bar. The wedding to remember will be officiated by Rock and Roll Hall of Fame legend and founder of Run-D.M.C., Rev Run.

The winning couple will receive the ultimate rockstar treatment at Borgata. The generous prize package will include a bachelor party for the groom at MIXX nightclub, and a bachelorette party for the bride at mur.mur with entertainment provided by Borgata Nightlife's premier DJ talents Samantha Ronson (mur.mur), DJ MOS and DJ KISS (MIXX), on Saturday, February 13th. On Sunday, the future Mr. and Mrs. will enjoy pampering at The Salon and The Barbershop and pre-wedding access to KID ROCK's performance at the Borgata Event Center for the dynamic duo and up to 12 of their guests. Following the concert, it's off to Gypsy Bar for a late night wedding ceremony with all the trimmings, including a personal photographer, custom cake by Executive Chef Thaddeus Dubois and a most memorable ceremony presided over by Rev Run. Before heading off to the honeymoon suite, the happy couple will enjoy a post-ceremony celebration at MIXX nightclub for the official KID ROCK concert after-party with musical performances by Rev Run and DJ Ruckus.

Couples must enter their submissions online at www.borgatanightlife.com. Complete details on the Ultimate Rock n' Roll Wedding contest, including the prize package components, can be found at http://tinyurl.com/yax3mga.

Opened in January 2010, the 49-hectare Resorts World Sentosa is Singapore's first integrated family resort destination, complete with Southeast Asia's first and only Universal Studios theme park, the world's largest Marine Life Park, six unique hotels offering 1,800 rooms, more than 60 dining outlets and a casino.

Hard Rock properties offer stylish and contemporary design, unparalleled service and the thread that unites them all - music. The properties are situated in resort destinations with unique character and tourist appeal as well as in urban gateway cities. Hard Rock Hotels cater to the evolving and distinctive needs of today's experienced, modern travelers, who seek a reprieve from traditional, predictable properties, whether for business or leisure travel. 

"The highly anticipated Hard Rock Hotel Singapore is a welcome addition to the Hard Rock Hotel portfolio," says Hamish Dodds, President and Chief Executive Officer, Hard Rock International.  "This development and our relationship with Genting Group and Resorts World complement Hard Rock Hotel's expansion strategy in premier locations worldwide, and will serve as a perfect backdrop for the continued growth of Hard Rock's portfolio."

The Hard Rock Hotel Singapore, a nearly $223 million venture, is one of six unique destination hotels at Resorts World Sentosa, which include Festive Hotel, Crockfords Tower, Hotel Michael, Equarius Hotel and Spa Villas. The hotel offers 360 keys (including nine suites and 351 rooms), modern conference facilities with 26 meeting rooms and Asia's largest column-free ballrooms with seating for 7,300 guests.  Featuring the latest in audio-visual equipment, the ballroom will be an ideal venue for concerts, seminars, performances and banquets and can be further subdivided into smaller ballrooms or separate conference halls for more intimate affairs.  The Rock Pool, a quintessential Hard Rock element, is a focal area for both music and relaxation, as well as a social gathering place.

The Hard Rock Hotel guest rooms incorporate Hard Rock's tradition of providing luxury, quality service and amenities with a distinctive music edge.   A retreat for chic jet-setters, Hard Rock Hotel Singapore is also the perfect family destination.  Deluxe twin rooms can accommodate up to five guests, with an extra pull-out bed for kids.

The hotel offers destination dining venues and high-energy bar locations providing both locals and hotel guests a place to see and be seen. Starz Restaurant, a stylish modern restaurant designed in contemporary style, offers a relaxing al fresco dining area overlooking the Rock Pool.  Inspired by the healthy and energetic lifestyle of Singapore, the restaurant's buffet-style dining with live cooking stations complements an A la Carte menu with the culinary flavors of Morocco, Europe, Middle East and Australia.  The Rock Bar, located on the second level of the hotel, is a trendy lounge and bar complete with a DJ spinning rock and techno music.  The menu features a selection of premium wines, liquors and champagnes, as well as Hard Rock's famous cocktails.  Finally, the award-winning Rang Mahal Group's latest dining concept of Indian cuisine is housed at the Hard Rock Hotel Singapore.  With the dining mood and decor inspired by the colorful celebrations of India using vivid colors and ethnic Indian instruments, the stylish restaurant pays tribute to "a celebration of Indian cuisine" with its menu highlighting classical Indian favorites as well as new, trendy dishes that embody the new generation of fusion flavors.

Chief Executive Officer of Resorts World Sentosa, Mr. Tan Hee Teck said, "We are excited to welcome our guests to the renowned Hard Rock Hotel in Singapore.  As a family destination with two of Asia's largest attractions, Universal Studios Singapore and the Marine Life Park, we believe that Hard Rock Hotel adds not only sizzle to our appeal, but excitement to accommodation options in the region.''   

"The Seminole Tribe of Florida is excited about the opening of our newest Hard Rock development in Southeast Asia," noted Jim Allen, CEO of Seminole Gaming and Chairman of Hard Rock International. "It's a testament to the brand that we have such incredible strategic partners and ample opportunity for global growth in emerging locations."

Opened in January 2010, the 49-hectare Resorts World Sentosa is Singapore's first integrated family resort destination, complete with Southeast Asia's first and only Universal Studios theme park, the world's largest Marine Life Park, six unique hotels offering 1,800 rooms, more than 60 dining outlets and a casino.

Hard Rock properties offer stylish and contemporary design, unparalleled service and the thread that unites them all - music. The properties are situated in resort destinations with unique character and tourist appeal as well as in urban gateway cities. Hard Rock Hotels cater to the evolving and distinctive needs of today's experienced, modern travelers, who seek a reprieve from traditional, predictable properties, whether for business or leisure travel. 

"The highly anticipated Hard Rock Hotel Singapore is a welcome addition to the Hard Rock Hotel portfolio," says Hamish Dodds, President and Chief Executive Officer, Hard Rock International.  "This development and our relationship with Genting Group and Resorts World complement Hard Rock Hotel's expansion strategy in premier locations worldwide, and will serve as a perfect backdrop for the continued growth of Hard Rock's portfolio."

The Hard Rock Hotel Singapore, a nearly $223 million venture, is one of six unique destination hotels at Resorts World Sentosa, which include Festive Hotel, Crockfords Tower, Hotel Michael, Equarius Hotel and Spa Villas. The hotel offers 360 keys (including nine suites and 351 rooms), modern conference facilities with 26 meeting rooms and Asia's largest column-free ballrooms with seating for 7,300 guests.  Featuring the latest in audio-visual equipment, the ballroom will be an ideal venue for concerts, seminars, performances and banquets and can be further subdivided into smaller ballrooms or separate conference halls for more intimate affairs.  The Rock Pool, a quintessential Hard Rock element, is a focal area for both music and relaxation, as well as a social gathering place.

The Hard Rock Hotel guest rooms incorporate Hard Rock's tradition of providing luxury, quality service and amenities with a distinctive music edge.   A retreat for chic jet-setters, Hard Rock Hotel Singapore is also the perfect family destination.  Deluxe twin rooms can accommodate up to five guests, with an extra pull-out bed for kids.

The hotel offers destination dining venues and high-energy bar locations providing both locals and hotel guests a place to see and be seen. Starz Restaurant, a stylish modern restaurant designed in contemporary style, offers a relaxing al fresco dining area overlooking the Rock Pool.  Inspired by the healthy and energetic lifestyle of Singapore, the restaurant's buffet-style dining with live cooking stations complements an A la Carte menu with the culinary flavors of Morocco, Europe, Middle East and Australia.  The Rock Bar, located on the second level of the hotel, is a trendy lounge and bar complete with a DJ spinning rock and techno music.  The menu features a selection of premium wines, liquors and champagnes, as well as Hard Rock's famous cocktails.  Finally, the award-winning Rang Mahal Group's latest dining concept of Indian cuisine is housed at the Hard Rock Hotel Singapore.  With the dining mood and decor inspired by the colorful celebrations of India using vivid colors and ethnic Indian instruments, the stylish restaurant pays tribute to "a celebration of Indian cuisine" with its menu highlighting classical Indian favorites as well as new, trendy dishes that embody the new generation of fusion flavors.

Chief Executive Officer of Resorts World Sentosa, Mr. Tan Hee Teck said, "We are excited to welcome our guests to the renowned Hard Rock Hotel in Singapore.  As a family destination with two of Asia's largest attractions, Universal Studios Singapore and the Marine Life Park, we believe that Hard Rock Hotel adds not only sizzle to our appeal, but excitement to accommodation options in the region.''   

"The Seminole Tribe of Florida is excited about the opening of our newest Hard Rock development in Southeast Asia," noted Jim Allen, CEO of Seminole Gaming and Chairman of Hard Rock International. "It's a testament to the brand that we have such incredible strategic partners and ample opportunity for global growth in emerging locations."

Nikki Beach, the world’s leading luxury entertainment and lifestyle group, announced their first lifestyle iPhone and iTouch application which is now for download in iTunes. Nikki Beach is the ultimate beach club concept that brings dining, fashion, music and entertainment together earning itself, as quoted by the London Observer, the undisputed reputation as being the

“The Sexiest Place on Earth”.

Nikki beach is coming with their latest trend and their own musical saga with this venture. You can even capture the latest Miami Beach aka Nikki beach music with this iTunes. The tracks are soothing and will give you ultimate relax even in their latest bungalow resort at Koh Samui Beach Resort.

It is here that you will find a unique blend of gorgeous people from all parts of the globe sharing languid afternoons and endless nights. Nikki Beach is world renowned for its surreal beauty and ambiance. It is one of the few places on the planet that champagne & cocktails at noon, accompanied by contemporary European delights & mood enhancing tunes, is a consistent reality. The Nikki Beach concept has transcended its international venues, and grown into a lifestyle company, complete with marketing and public relations divisions, special events coordination, a VIP card and concierge program, a fashion line, Nikki Beach Clothing, debuting its first collection at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival, a music label, Nikki Beach Music, an exquisite publication covering everything jet set, Nikki Style Magazine, and boutique hotels and resorts. Now they are trying to continue their trend in Thailand Beach resort at Nikki Beach Koh Samui Bungalow Resort. You will feel relaxed while listening to those tracks while grabbing the beauty of white sandy beaches and coral reefs of lovely Thailand Beaches.

For more information on Nikki Beach Thailand, visit nikkibeachThailand.com/.

Nikki Beach, the world’s leading luxury entertainment and lifestyle group, announced their first lifestyle iPhone and iTouch application which is now for download in iTunes. Nikki Beach is the ultimate beach club concept that brings dining, fashion, music and entertainment together earning itself, as quoted by the London Observer, the undisputed reputation as being the

“The Sexiest Place on Earth”.

Nikki beach is coming with their latest trend and their own musical saga with this venture. You can even capture the latest Miami Beach aka Nikki beach music with this iTunes. The tracks are soothing and will give you ultimate relax even in their latest bungalow resort at Koh Samui Beach Resort.

It is here that you will find a unique blend of gorgeous people from all parts of the globe sharing languid afternoons and endless nights. Nikki Beach is world renowned for its surreal beauty and ambiance. It is one of the few places on the planet that champagne & cocktails at noon, accompanied by contemporary European delights & mood enhancing tunes, is a consistent reality. The Nikki Beach concept has transcended its international venues, and grown into a lifestyle company, complete with marketing and public relations divisions, special events coordination, a VIP card and concierge program, a fashion line, Nikki Beach Clothing, debuting its first collection at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival, a music label, Nikki Beach Music, an exquisite publication covering everything jet set, Nikki Style Magazine, and boutique hotels and resorts. Now they are trying to continue their trend in Thailand Beach resort at Nikki Beach Koh Samui Bungalow Resort. You will feel relaxed while listening to those tracks while grabbing the beauty of white sandy beaches and coral reefs of lovely Thailand Beaches.

For more information on Nikki Beach Thailand, visit nikkibeachThailand.com/.

SOKO Fitness & Spa Group an operator of fitness centers, beauty salons and spas in Northeast China as well as suburban Beijing, today provided an update on its recently broadened geographic expansion strategy. In addition to its core strategy of targeting Tier-2 cities in China, SOKO has extended its geographic expansion strategy to include targeting facility openings in select under-penetrated, suburban areas of Tier-1 cities in China where it sees the potential to capture market share and achieve significant returns on investment.

SOKO defines a Tier-1 city in China as one of the major metropolitan areas in the country, with a population of a least 10 million. SOKO defines Tier-2 cities as cities with populations between 1 and 7 million.

During its 17 year history, SOKO has maintained operations in Tier-2 markets such has Harbin and Shenyang in Northeast China, where the SOKO has developed its brand and strategy to cross-sell its fitness center, beauty salon and spa services in these generally under-served and less competitive markets. According to its broadened geographic expansion strategy, SOKO will continue to seek selected Tier-1 center opening initiatives in under-served areas of these more competitive markets that will target spa and salon facilities, as well as additional fitness and yoga centers and new services such as medical beauty centers in order to cross-sell its services between business segments.

SOKO's broadened geographic expansion strategy was recently evidenced by its entry into the suburban Beijing market in December 2009 through the acquisition of a majority interest in two fitness centers. The acquisition of these centers is consistent with SOKO's growth strategy to pursue strategic geographic expansion through strategic acquisition. SOKO plans to pursue additional expansion opportunities in the Beijing, primarily targeting under- penetrated, suburban areas and sections of the city in which SOKO believes it has the potential to capture significant local market share.

"While we continue to target Tier-2 cities where we believe we have the most potential for return on investment, we believe a significant opportunity exists in and around larger markets as well," said Tong Liu, Chief Executive Officer of SOKO. "We believe that pursuing strategic growth opportunities in suburban areas of Tier-1 markets, such as Beijing, is consistent with our core strategy of opening facilities in areas that feature relatively low penetration from competitors, and where we believe SOKO can most effectively compete.

"As we move forward, we will look to broaden the range of services we offer to include beauty and aesthetics in addition to fitness centers. We believe this strategy will continue to enable us to cross-market and sell our full range of SOKO-branded services. We believe that we will be able to execute on this core strategy in these newer markets in a manner similar to what we have achieved in our historical markets of Harbin and Shenyang," Mr. Liu concluded.

SOKO's two currently owned Beijing fitness center facilities comprise a combined membership base of approximately 2,000 and are located in Beijing's Huilongguan district, a high-density commercial and middle class residential district with a population of approximately 300,000. Each club occupies over 3,000 square meters and features state-of-the-art exercise facilities, high- end equipment and other amenities consistent with SOKO's existing fitness center properties.

With the snowpocalypse bogging down much of the Northeast in the last few weeks, dreaming about a tropical destination is the only way we’re getting through this winter. White sandy beaches, crystal blue water and temperatures above freezing? We’re in.

The much talked about Saint Barthélemy aka St. Bart’s still remains one of our favorite island retreats. Celebrities and socialites alike continue to flock to St. Bart’s for secluded getaways. Stylist Rachel Zoe tweeted about this paradise while vacationing on the island this winter. Beyonce and Jay-Z have been seen cruising on yachts.

Naturally, the draw to St. Bart’s is the island itself. With an temperatures hovering around perfect all year round, the prospect of Vitamin D is enough to book a flight. A walk down St. Jean Beach promises beautiful scenery and people watching to die for. It also means photo shoots. Victoria’s Secrets recently shot on St. Bart’s, bringing supermodels and their celebrity boyfriends to the island.

With the snowpocalypse bogging down much of the Northeast in the last few weeks, dreaming about a tropical destination is the only way we’re getting through this winter. White sandy beaches, crystal blue water and temperatures above freezing? We’re in.

The much talked about Saint Barthélemy aka St. Bart’s still remains one of our favorite island retreats. Celebrities and socialites alike continue to flock to St. Bart’s for secluded getaways. Stylist Rachel Zoe tweeted about this paradise while vacationing on the island this winter. Beyonce and Jay-Z have been seen cruising on yachts.

Naturally, the draw to St. Bart’s is the island itself. With an temperatures hovering around perfect all year round, the prospect of Vitamin D is enough to book a flight. A walk down St. Jean Beach promises beautiful scenery and people watching to die for. It also means photo shoots. Victoria’s Secrets recently shot on St. Bart’s, bringing supermodels and their celebrity boyfriends to the island.

With the snowpocalypse bogging down much of the Northeast in the last few weeks, dreaming about a tropical destination is the only way we’re getting through this winter. White sandy beaches, crystal blue water and temperatures above freezing? We’re in.

The much talked about Saint Barthélemy aka St. Bart’s still remains one of our favorite island retreats. Celebrities and socialites alike continue to flock to St. Bart’s for secluded getaways. Stylist Rachel Zoe tweeted about this paradise while vacationing on the island this winter. Beyonce and Jay-Z have been seen cruising on yachts.

Naturally, the draw to St. Bart’s is the island itself. With an temperatures hovering around perfect all year round, the prospect of Vitamin D is enough to book a flight. A walk down St. Jean Beach promises beautiful scenery and people watching to die for. It also means photo shoots. Victoria’s Secrets recently shot on St. Bart’s, bringing supermodels and their celebrity boyfriends to the island.

In 1985 Harvey and Marilyn Diamond wrote a diet and lifestyle book. Today, 25 years later, “Fit For Life” continues to remain popular. Promising to change not just your diet but also your lifestyle, the book helps readers lose weight and create a new healthy lifestyle. The revolutionary New York Times best seller changed the way people saw diets; no longer were they just short lived, but rather they promoted a new way of living.

In 1985 Harvey and Marilyn Diamond wrote a diet and lifestyle book. Today, 25 years later, “Fit For Life” continues to remain popular. Promising to change not just your diet but also your lifestyle, the book helps readers lose weight and create a new healthy lifestyle. The revolutionary New York Times best seller changed the way people saw diets; no longer were they just short lived, but rather they promoted a new way of living.

In 1985 Harvey and Marilyn Diamond wrote a diet and lifestyle book. Today, 25 years later, “Fit For Life” continues to remain popular. Promising to change not just your diet but also your lifestyle, the book helps readers lose weight and create a new healthy lifestyle. The revolutionary New York Times best seller changed the way people saw diets; no longer were they just short lived, but rather they promoted a new way of living.

In 1985 Harvey and Marilyn Diamond wrote a diet and lifestyle book. Today, 25 years later, “Fit For Life” continues to remain popular. Promising to change not just your diet but also your lifestyle, the book helps readers lose weight and create a new healthy lifestyle. The revolutionary New York Times best seller changed the way people saw diets; no longer were they just short lived, but rather they promoted a new way of living.

March is DVT Awareness Month and Vein Clinics of America encourages people with varicose veins, particularly those that have become painful and inflamed, to visit a vein specialist.

WHY: Varicose veins are not just unsightly; they may be a signal to potential serious health issues, such as dangerous blood clots.

Varicose veins, or enlarged, visible veins near the surface of the skin, are most commonly seen in the legs and ankles. Many people with varicose veins experience pain, swelling, heaviness, and fatigue in the legs. In some cases, the leg veins may become inflamed and painful – a condition known as superficial phlebitis. Sometimes phlebitis can be associated with superficial vein thrombosis (SVT). A recent study published in Archives of Dermatology indicated that 1 in 4 patients with SVT also had a DVT. (Binder B, et al. Association between superficial vein thrombosis and deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities. Archives of Dermatology 2009; 145(7): 753-757.)

Given the potentially serious health risks associated with some varicose veins, people experiencing swollen, painful veins should seek professional consultation with a vein specialist or Phlebologist. The Phlebologists at Vein Clinics of America are specially trained to diagnose and treat vein disorders and can help people avoid more serious complications as a result of their varicose veins. Recent advances in medical technology have made the treatment of vein disorders safer and more effective.

WHO: J. Theodore King, MD, FACPh, Medical Director of Vein Clinics of America will be available to discuss DVT and the importance of diagnosing and treating varicose veins.

HOW: Visit www.veinclinics.com or call 1-866-617-VEIN to make an appointment today.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT DVT:

• There are approximately 600,000 new cases of DVT diagnosed in the US each year. Deep venous thrombosis mainly affects large veins that are deep inside the lower leg and thigh. DVT can be life-threatening if the clot breaks off, travels to, and lodges in the lung.
• Symptoms of DVT can include:
  • Changes in skin color (redness, but sometimes pale) in one leg
  • Increased warmth in one leg
  • Pain in one leg
  • Tenderness in one leg
  • Swelling (edema) of one leg
• Varicose veins can predispose an individual to superficial thrombosis which, if left untreated, can lead to deep vein thrombosis or post-thrombotic syndrome.
  • Symptoms of post-thrombotic syndrome may include persistent edema (swelling), pain, increased skin pigmentation, and ulceration.

Are you anxious, having trouble sleeping or sore from exercise? Does your hand hurt from working on your 'blackberry' or is your upper back sore from typing on a computer all day? Dr. Chris Oswald, founder of Muscle Care Products, has created the ultimate multi-vitamin and pain relief for your muscles; MuscleCare topical products, scientifically designed to relieve any muscle aches and pains, as a result of working out or just working at a desk. Created through thorough analysis of existing muscle care pain relief products on the market, Professional Therapy MuscleCare products have been subjected to comprehensive clinical studies to ensure superior effectiveness compared to other National brands.

Topical Professional Therapy MuscleCare Extra-Strength Roll-On Gel and Professional Therapy MuscleCare Ointment provide long-lasting, all-natural relief from pain, both acute and chronic muscle injury strains/spasm, and joint arthritis. The products contain key ingredients that work to relax the tissue, increase the flow of healthy blood and nutrients that actually reset the muscle to its normal resting length, and promote healing.

In a recent independent randomized double-blind clinical controlled study, Dr. Oswald's Professional Therapy Roll-On Gel and Ointment:

    -   Produced results that were 44%, 105% and 1700% more effective than         National leading brands     -   Only product on the market proven: natural, safe, fast-acting, and         carcinogen and paraben-free (ingredients typically found in other         pain relieving products to block absorption by the body)     -   In just 30 seconds reduced pain, inflammation and muscle spasm with         no side effects 

An expert in his field and a practicing Chiropractor of over 20 years, co-author of "Stretching for Fitness Health and Performance", and CEO of Professional Therapy MuscleCare, Dr. Chris Oswald has developed the safest and most effective products for his patients. "The topical pain relief industry has long been lacking in safety and efficacy, and I have gone to great lengths and conducted a thorough clinical study to change that," explains Dr. Oswald. "My Professional Therapy MuscleCare Products are designed to break the cycle of pain and anxiety associated with any sort of muscle discomfort and are meant to be used as both preventative and reactive treatments. My products are 100% natural and can be used anywhere there is pain."

The retail price is $19.99 for the Roll-On Gel and $25.99 for the Ointment. It is currently sold at over 250 Duane Reade stores, CVS.com and Amazon.com in the US and over 1000 Rexall/Pharmaplus drug stores in Canada.

Muscle Care Products are becoming a well-recognized national brand that consumers trust because of thorough product and clinical testing, product longevity, comfort, design and fit-ability.

10 percent of American children will be overweight by the time their fifth birthday. This alarming statistic combined with the fact that 60% of Americans are considered obese, worries many parents. The book, “Baby Knows Best: How to Prevent Childhood Obesity from Day One,” by Dr. Herbert Goldman explores this issue and draws attention to the facts and risks of this disease.

With advice to parents, the book discusses how childhood obesity develops. Dr. Goldman, who has over 35 years in the infant/childhood obesity field, talks about ways to prevent the issue, as well as provides ways to create healthy eating patterns for children from the start.

Dr. Goldman’s approach bodes well for us, as he promotes eating healthy for life. We love the fact that this issue is being investigated and promoted further. As the portions of food at restaurants only continues to increase, it’s important for parents to have the facts and knowledge about what they’re serving their kids. It may be called a Happy Meal, but childhood obesity isn’t a laughing matter. And we’re glad it’s being taken seriously.

Vacations usually mean a break from your normal routine. And that includes your diet and work out routines. Crystal Cruises is out to prove you don’t have to gain ten pounds while on vacation. The September 5 voyage of Crystal Symphony will be completely dedicated to wellness, but the luxury cruise line is still keeping cruise-goers high expectations afloat.

The Naked Chef is on a mission to tackle childhood obesity starting with our nation's schools. I don't know about you, but my high school lunch days were nothing but a mess of chicken patties, pizza and tatter tots. Nutrition wasn't even a twinkle in the lunch lady's eye. And with the rise in overweight children steadily climbing, how can we not love Jamie Oliver's bold approach at facing an issue head on that we continue to fail miserably at? His Food Revolution looks to do just that.

 

Red Mango, the fastest growing retailer of all-natural frozen yogurt and fresh fruit smoothies, today announced its newest nonfat frozen yogurt flavor, Madagascar Vanilla, which is available now at all participating Red Mango locations.

"We decided to use premium all-natural vanilla from the country of Madagascar because it is the purest, richest and most flavorful variety of vanilla in the world," said Dan Kim, founder of Red Mango.  "Many frozen desserts are made with vanilla that is often mixed with artificial flavors.  Red Mango's Madagascar Vanilla is real and all-natural, and offers the true flavor of pure premium vanilla."

Madagascar is the largest producer of fine vanilla in the world.  Its rich and complex flavor is often imitated by producers of artificial vanilla, but never duplicated.  The distinct taste and aroma of this variety can only be appreciated in its natural essence.  Combined with the all-natural deliciousness of Red Mango's propriety frozen yogurt, Red Mango's Madagascar Vanilla frozen yogurt adds a vibrant flavor of bold originality, which will not be confused with your average vanilla.  Each serving is around 100 calories and pairs perfectly with any of Red Mango's healthy selection of toppings.

The conditions of urban environments have been linked to an escalation of noncommunicable diseases such as Type II diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. These diseases are preventable and manageable through exercise, which is why the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) is dedicated to stemming the tide of poor health and physical decline by providing distance fitness education to health and fitness professionals, as well as other interested individuals.

Research has confirmed that engaging in regular physical activity can help prevent or improve heart disease, obesity, and diabetes by helping the heart function more efficiently and by enhancing weight loss, which can increase insulin sensitivity, improve blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and reduce blood pressure.

It has been found, however, that decreased physical activity and poor diet are increasingly prevalent issues in high-density urban areas. As the World Health Organization explains, "participation in physical activity is made difficult by a variety of urban factors including overcrowding, high-volume traffic, heavy use of motorized transportation, poor air quality and lack of safe public spaces and recreation/sports facilities." Many urban environments have failed to factor in bike paths, neighborhood parks, or even sidewalks—and when present, they are often in disrepair.

"It's no wonder that obesity is an increasing epidemic," says Dr. Sal Arria, CEO/Co-founder of ISSA. "There are so many obstacles in the urban setting that limit physical activity and encourage sedentary behavior, and the fast-paced lifestyle tends to promote unhealthy food consumption as people opt for the convenience of fast food. Also, people are often driven to fall into poor eating habits by a lack of access to fresh and affordable natural foods."

The planning and regulation of "built environments" needs to change in order to improve health in cities. Urban planning can promote healthy behaviors by designing areas to promote physical activity and managing availability of fresh food.

Today is World Health Day – visit http://www.who.int/world-health-day/en/

There's the cool mom, the overprotective mom and the soccer mom.  No matter which one raised you, they all have one thing in common (no, not mom jeans) - they love a spa day. Whether you're looking for a special Mother's Day gift for a new mom or an empty-nester, there's a spa experience out there that fits her.  

"This Mother's Day, introduce your mom to the spa lifestyle, because the benefits of spa-going are immeasurable," said ISPA President Lynne McNees.  "She can learn healthy cooking methods, skin care tips and relaxation techniques. After all, the No. 1 reason people go to the spa is to reduce stress and relax."

ISPA members are offering specials for first-time moms, mums who need some R&R and mothers & daughters:

Bun in the Oven:

• Edamame Spa, Philadelphia, PA - Mama Mio™ Yummy Tummy – Exfoliate and improve the tonicity of your abdomen with a serum and treatment mask. Also, enjoy a leg and foot massage. $140 for 50 minutes.
• Glenwood Hot Springs, Glenwood, CO – Prenatal Massage – This massage helps expectant mothers reduce anxiety, improve circulation and balance hormones. $95 for 50 minutes.
• The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Miami, FL – Pre & Post Natal Escape – Enjoy a pre-natal treatment, maternity massage and matching mom and baby tanks. This two-hour package is $250, and on May 16 you can add-on Mommy & Baby Yoga for $25.

Mother Lover:

• The Spa at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey, PA – Rose Garden Collection – The Rose Garden Hydrating Body Wrap, Massage and Foot Treatment with lunch are packaged for $284.  This four-hour treatment is available Monday-Thursday, May 3-27.
• Spa Montage, Laguna Beach, CA – A Day of Indulgence – A 60-minute massage, poolside lunch and sunset yoga will zen Mom out.  Available Monday-Thursday for $200.
• VH Spa at Hotel Valley Ho, Scottsdale, AZ – Mother's Day Spa Party – Treat Mom to a choice of a 60-minute massage, Being TRUE facial or pedicure. Then choose four mini-treatments like eye contouring or a quantum biofeedback stress buster. Finish the day with yoga, belly dancing or hula lessons.  All for $125.

Like Mother Like Daughter:

• Cal-a-Vie Health Spa, Vista, CA – Mom & Teen Week – Bond together with fashion shows, make-up lessons, skin care tips, cooking demonstrations, dance classes and tons of spa treatments. A three-night stay starts at $5,993.
• Murad Inclusive Health Spa, El Segundo, CA – Purchase a gift card for mom and receive spa rewards for yourself. Purchase a $100 gift card and receive $20 in rewards; $200 gets you $60 and $300 lets you spend $100.  
• Red Mountain Resort & Spa, Ivins, UT – Mother-Daughter Adventure Package – Share 50-minute Swedish massages, morning hikes, cooking demonstrations and personal discovery activities with your mom.  Four-day escapes start at $229 per person.

Sleep affects how you feel, your relationships, your productivity and your quality of life. Whether you have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too soon; with a few changes in your habits and your sleep environment, you can look forward to a more sound sleep and a refreshed morning.

1. Always maintain a regular sleep schedule, including on the weekends. Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day even if you haven't slept well.

2. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine, such as soaking in a hot bath, reading a book, playing a quiet game or listening to soothing music.

3. Create a sleep-conducive environment that is dark, comfortable, cool and quiet. This also includes sleeping on a comfortable mattress and pillow and minimizing noise in the house.

4. Remove all work materials, personal digital assistants, computers and televisions out of your sleeping environment.

5. Avoid heavy meals close to bedtime. Try eating tryptophan-rich foods, such as milk, cheese, peanuts, as a light snack at least two hours before bedtime.

There’s only one strength enhancer that’s Harvard tested and Harvard approved. And if we’re going on SAT scores, Force Factor must have scored a perfect 2400 to have been good enough for the Harvard Crew Team. They used Force Factor in 2004 to help the championship team to increase their endurance and strength when they couldn’t find a product to do the job.

Force Factor is a more natural way to bulk up. It’s made of amino acids that help move more oxygen into your muscles, which in turn creates extreme muscle growth and strength gains. Or more simply, Force Factor will pump you up. Force Factor doesn’t contain caffeine like most other strength enhancers. In addition, it boasts nitric oxide boosting arginines, a natural dietary substance which have been known to aid healing woulds, remove waste products from the body and potentially has heart benefits.

At Pierce Mattie we know there's no such thing as a perfect diet. But the Perfect 10 Diet comes pretty close. Created by Dr. Michael Aziz, the diet focuses on balancing 10 key hormones that directly relate to health and weight. The three stages, which include foods that are typically banned in most diets, cater to a lifestyle change.

Carbs are okay and as Dr. Aziz points out, low carb diets can wreck critical hormones that assist weight loss. This diet rewrites the food pyramid. Dr. Aziz believes in the 40-20-40 approach; 40% of your calories should come from carbohydrates, 20% from protein and 40% from fat. It encourages whole grains and eating minimal dairy products. It also recommends eating red meat sparingly, as it has been reportedly linked to cancer.

Dr. Mark Hooper, creator and founder of My Ideal Pillow, the nation's only pillow designed by a medical practitioner, helps bust myths and misperceptions about sleep. "People emphasize the importance of diet and exercise for good health, but sleep is often ignored or brushed aside. Yet you have more power over regulating a proper sleep environment than you realize and it too contributes to better health overall," said Hooper.

Myth 1: All sleep is created equal

You might not be awake, but closed eyes plus a prone position doesn't equal the right kind or proper amount of sleep. Eight hours of restlessness is neither restorative nor refreshing. "Think of poor sleep like junk food," said Hooper, "bad for your body, bad for your health." The right mattress, bedding and pillow selection can go a long way to helping create the right sleep environment.

The dermatologist office can be an overwhelming place. From understanding the difference between a TCA chemical peel and an AHA to learning about soft tissue fillers, it’s important to know before you go. “Cosmetic Dermatology: Products and Procedures,” a new book edited by Zoe Diana Draelos, wants to lessen the burden of the dermatology office by providing insight from within.

According to Michelle Obama's initiative against childhood obesity, "Let's Move," obesity in children has tripled over the last 30 years and nearly one-third of the world's children are obese. Initiatives such as "Let's Move" and ABC's "Food Revolution" from celebrity chef Jamie Oliver call for action to reform children's diets and make this issue increasingly hard to ignore. With a child obesity epidemic sweeping the nation, how can children learn it's actually possible to have too much of a "good thing"?

"We have reached a place in our society where over-abundance and indulgence is becoming less fashionable and more detrimental," says E. Diann Cook, author of "The Andersuns: Jarrell's Sweet Tooth." "As parents and adults, we need numerous learning tools to protect and enhance our children's health and welfare."

If there are two things I love, it is going to the spa and skiing. My all-time favorite place to ski is Killington. Now New Life Hiking Spa in Killington, Vermont has launched a new weight loss spa vacation package designed to be a combination of hiking, healthy foods and creating healthy eating habits that are targeted to help you lose weight. While this weight loss spa has vacation packages with as few as 2-4 days for stay time, it is their 11-day package that is the most popular.

The 11-day weight loss retreat outlines and enlists realistic solid changes in your eating habits and lifestyle to promote a life-long change to the way you eat and maintain a healthy weight. Since we all know that diets are only a short term solution to a long term goal, this may be why staying at New Life for a longer duration provides a better success rate for weight loss. Rates start as low as $209 per night, but price is determined by the package you choose and occupancy.

While skiing is not on the agenda at this weight loss spa (they are only open May-October), I definitely suggest driving by the slopes and planning an adventure in the winter months. What better way to continue your weight loss goal and stay in shape?

This summer, a record number of cruisers are expected to take to the seas, and many of them will be taking a cruise for the first time, prompting Cruise Critic® (www.cruisecritic.com) to launch a new Cruise Planning section dedicated to helping rookie cruisers plan their first cruise.

Cruise Critic is the leading cruise reviews and news site, best known for its community of avid cruisers, but also popular with new cruisers who turn to Cruise Critic and its members for tips and advice on all aspects of cruising, from which cruise line to sail with, to what to pack for a vacation at sea.

The new planning section addresses the questions most frequently asked by new cruisers -- with tips on everything from shore excursions to kids programs. Travelers can also find critical information, such as articles on cruise safety, travel insurance and health issues. To help these new cruisers get their sea legs, Cruise Critic has created a list of the Top Ten Tips for Cruise Virgins:

Pierce Mattie Public Relations Reports: Mosquitos are creating a great public relations opportunity for the personal care market this summer, that's for sure. If you were outdoors like I was all weekend, I am willing to bet you probably have about 10+ mosquito bites (and no, standing by the campfire doesn't keep them away, as evidenced by my legs.) In fact, according to a Galveston Texas newspaper, locals there can expect 7 and even up to 15 mosquitos per minute landing on them. While this may just persuade you from wanting to spend your summer nights under the stars, there's certainly some great products out there that can help keep the mosquito bites to a minimum. 

The Mediterranean Diet, which has been promoted as the heart-healthy diet on well-respected sites like WebMD and the Mayo Clinic, and have even grabbed the attention of the American Heart Association, has now been included in the 2010 DGA (Dietary Guidelines for Americans) as an optimal choice for eating healthy.

From the National Institutes of Health, the Mediterranean diet is based on:

• Plant-based meals, with just small amounts of meat and chicken, when they are used
• Larger servings of grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, and legumes
• Foods that naturally contain high amounts of fiber, antioxidants, and other nutrients
• Plenty of fish and other seafood that are rich in omega 3 fats
• Olive oil, a healthy, monounsaturated fat, as the main source of fat used to flavor and prepare foods
• Food that is prepared and seasoned simply, without sauces and gravies
  
• Flavorful meals that bring out the natural taste of foods
  
• Dining with others at a relaxed pace 

2010's DGA has a focus on more plant-based nutrition, and recent reports show that it may be the olive oil aspect of this diet that is proving to have the most benefit from following the diet's outline.

Do you follow this lifestyle diet? How has it helped your health?

If you are serious about body building, then IDS (Innovative Delivery Systems) is for you. Designed with you in mind, IDS offers a line of fat burning, weight loss and protein delivery supplements for men and women body builders. Their products do not contain any ephedra or ephedrine and are formulated with whey protein instead.

The IDS products come in three different options: New Whey Liquid Protein, Multi Pro Whey, and Oatmeal & Whey. The New Whey liquid protein comes in a convenient package and ideal for people looking for protein supplement on the go! New Whey delivers 25 grams of pure protein with no carbs or fat in their 2.9 ounce package (retail at $37.99). There is no need of messy mixing with this product. Plus, the New Whey liquid protein comes in these flavors: Acai Berry, Fruit Punch, Grape, Orange, and Blueberry raspberry.

First of all, I am not vegan and the only raw food to ever have entered my mouth has been fruits and vegetables on a rare occasion (as in forced by mom as a child.) So when a friend of mine suggested eating at a raw food restaurant in the East Village called Quintessence, I was anything but ecstatic. Yet, I found myself sitting down in this quaint establishment mulling over the menu and thinking that many of the entries sounded pretty good (although I wasn't willing to admit that out loud at the time.)

I opted to play it safe with a salad and selected the arugula sprout with caramelized walnuts. The sweet-spiced fig cardamom dressing was heaven, as was the goji berries sprinkled throughout. My friends had ordered the chips and dip as an appetizer, which were homemade corn chips and flax crackers. I decided to expand on my bravery of stepping foot into the raw food realm and give them a try. Yum! (especially the corn chips.)

Dessert took more convincing, as I wasn't exactly keen on trying a non-dairy homemade ice cream. Yet, as soon as it hit my taste buds, I basically stole the spoon from my friend and proceeded to devour the entire Quintessence ice creme. 

While I may still be a long way from converting to the raw food lifestyle, Quintessence sure helped convince me that raw food can be absolutely delicious. You can see their menu at www.raw-q.com.

While, we know that there are many contributing factors making us fat such as our genetic disposition, we do not have to be “trapped” forever with that notion. Even though, studies have shown that some are at a higher predisposition of having “fat genes,” Felicia Stoler, a registered dietitian, a nutrition consultant and author of the upcoming book titled Living Skinny in Fat Genes can help ease readers into losing weight efficiently and effectively. Living Skinny in Fat Genes (set to be released Jan 15th, 2011) proves that having a better education on health issues could lead to healthier, happier and fit lives.

Dr. Felicia Stoller, R.D., is a registered dietitian, nutrition and exercise physiologist, journalist, and the host of TLC’s show "Honey, We’re Killing the Kids" has decided to write a book to show readers on how to take control of their own health through her easy and simple to follow health plan. In this book, she discusses the best new dietary foods, new healthy oils, (palm coconut and canola), and seasonal produce to include into your diet.

She outlines in her book how to:

ProCaps Laboratories has been committed to the safest and most effective nutritional supplements since 1979. They were one of the first wellness brands to begin trailblazing in the “early days” of vitamin supplements. The founder, Andrew Lessman, wanted to help educate the medical profession to enhance the quality of life by understanding the need for vitamins. Throughout his journey in cultivating essential vitamins for the consumers, he used his background in biochemistry to create vitamins that not only fit his health needs, but met the needs of athletes and other health professionals, as well.

Norwegian Cruise Line today announced it is working with YouTube to power the first-ever YouTube Vacationer, a travel-specific channel within the world's largest online video site providing vacation inspiration with ideas and advice from well-traveled experts, such as Lonely Planet, National Geographic and Travel Channel. The YouTube Vacationer, www.youtube.com/vacationer, is also interactive, offering visitors a first of its kind opportunity to create their own "Vacation You" video experience and share it with others.

Norwegian Cruise Line's signature Freestyle Cruising approach is at the heart of this site, providing users the freedom, flexibility and choice to interact with more than two million combinations of video content enabling them to create and share their own unique Freestyle vacation experience.

When interacting within Norwegian's "Vacation You" section of the YouTube Vacationer channel, visitors will select from a series of short video clips that tap into their vacation mindset to produce a customized 60-90 second montage of their ideal Freestyle Cruising vacations. Visitors can then share their personalized "Vacation You" video with friends and family through Facebook, Twitter or email.  

"By working with YouTube on their first-ever travel-specific channel, we are giving visitors the opportunity to experience our brand and all the options that Freestyle Cruising offers," said Maria Miller, Norwegian Cruise Line's senior vice president of marketing. "From a marketing perspective, this opportunity is compelling because it provides a truly organic user experience and represents another great way for brands to work with YouTube."

"We are pleased to be working with Norwegian Cruise Line, the innovators in cruise travel, on our first branded travel channel," said Mark Day, Sales Development at YouTube. "The YouTube Vacationer channel brings the best of our partners' travel videos into a single destination to help users explore, plan and dream about their next vacations, and it gives users a way to see themselves in a customized vacation video with Norwegian's 'Vacation You' application."

To experience the YouTube Vacationer channel, visit www.youtube.com/vacationer.

September is the time for big plays and winning combinations.  One combination that is a winner all-year round is soyfoods and men's health.  September is Prostate Cancer Awareness month and the Soyfoods Association of North America (SANA) believes it's a perfect time to remind Americans of the facts about men's health and soyfoods.

Often when men think about prostate cancer, they also worry about their hormones and reproductive health.  Recently, Dr. Hamilton-Reeves completed a large review of the available research on the effect of soy on testosterone and other reproductive hormones.  Hamilton-Reeves examined 32 studies and concluded that neither soy protein nor soy isoflavones affect reproductive hormone concentrations in men.(4)  

In addition to prostate cancer, men should also be protecting themselves against heart disease.  In 1999, the FDA authorized a health claim for soy protein's role in heart health and the research continues to show that soyfoods, especially the protein content, modestly lowers LDL (bad) cholesterol, while keeping HDL (good) cholesterol intact.(5,6)  Adding soyfoods to a low cholesterol, low saturated fat diet is a tasty and smart choice.  

With the wide variety of soyfoods available today, there are many great options for adding soy to any game day meal.  Soy can be used in dips, chips, burgers, veggie dogs, and chili - all great for tailgating. Substituting soyfoods for popular favorites will provide your guests a heart-smart punch of protein energy. That's a winning play!

For great ideas for soyfoods recipes and additional information please visit www.soyfoods.org.

September is the time for big plays and winning combinations.  One combination that is a winner all-year round is soyfoods and men's health.  September is Prostate Cancer Awareness month and the Soyfoods Association of North America (SANA) believes it's a perfect time to remind Americans of the facts about men's health and soyfoods.

Often when men think about prostate cancer, they also worry about their hormones and reproductive health.  Recently, Dr. Hamilton-Reeves completed a large review of the available research on the effect of soy on testosterone and other reproductive hormones.  Hamilton-Reeves examined 32 studies and concluded that neither soy protein nor soy isoflavones affect reproductive hormone concentrations in men.(4)  

In addition to prostate cancer, men should also be protecting themselves against heart disease.  In 1999, the FDA authorized a health claim for soy protein's role in heart health and the research continues to show that soyfoods, especially the protein content, modestly lowers LDL (bad) cholesterol, while keeping HDL (good) cholesterol intact.(5,6)  Adding soyfoods to a low cholesterol, low saturated fat diet is a tasty and smart choice.  

With the wide variety of soyfoods available today, there are many great options for adding soy to any game day meal.  Soy can be used in dips, chips, burgers, veggie dogs, and chili - all great for tailgating. Substituting soyfoods for popular favorites will provide your guests a heart-smart punch of protein energy. That's a winning play!

For great ideas for soyfoods recipes and additional information please visit www.soyfoods.org.

I love going for a run every morning to start off my day energized and refreshed, so I was excited when I learned about a sports drink that will leave me feeling better than ever - pure coconut water! Who would have thought?

Zico is an all natural, anti-oxidant drink that re-hydrates faster than water and far out weighs the benefits of typical sports drinks. I know I was surprised to learn that you would need to drink 15 regular sports drinks to get as much potassium as one bottle of Zico offers, which is more than what is found in eating one banana. This helps reduce cramping during exercise and allows you to recover faster after. It is also less acidic than most drinks and has zero fat, zero cholesterol and zero added sugar. That’s a lot of healthy zeros!

Wellness PR: Smart Balance, Inc. is launching Smart Balance Lactose-Free Fat Free and Calcium milk, the latest addition to its popular line of enhanced milks and innovative heart healthier products.

The makers of Smart Balance created the lactose-free products to meet the needs of the estimated 50 million people in the U.S. who are lactose intolerant and cannot digest milk products.

"We are pleased to offer lactose-free milks which taste great and deliver on the Smart Balance promise of heart-healthier benefits," said Chief Marketing Officer Greg Venner.

Like all of the fat free milks in the Smart Balance line of enhanced milks, the lactose-free milks have the rich, creamy taste of 2% without the saturated fat. Our new Smart Balance™ Lactose-Free Fat Free and Calcium milk has 75% more calcium and 20% more protein than whole milk. The added calcium is great for those who avoid dairy and have a hard time getting enough calcium for healthy bones.

Also available nationwide is Smart Balance Lactose-Free Fat Free and Omega-3s milk, which has the added benefits of Omega-3s as well as 20% more protein and 20% more calcium than regular milk. It provides an excellent source of heart-healthy EPA/DHA Omega-3s (32 mg per serving, 20% of the 160 mg daily value).

Spa & Wellness PR Trends for 2011 and Beyond

Pierce Mattie’s session will jumpstart your media relations. Whoever said the spa and beauty business was restful certainly didn’t have a PR machine behind them. Roll up your sleeves as Pierce walks you through the hottest TV shows, consumer magazines and online blogs and websites, highlighting which ones are the best places for your brand to be featured. Pierce will share select press contacts from his little black book and showcase his latest case studies. In addition, Pierce will give you a tip sheet on how to maximize your press outreach. Bring your press kit or a release on your business and have the opportunity for Pierce to critique it.

To register for this event

Good nutrition and healthy eating habits are essential to maintaining optimal oral and overall health. With Halloween just around the corner, the Pennsylvania Dental Association (PDA) encourages parents to be mindful of the amount of candy their children are consuming, and to use this holiday as an opportunity to remind them about the importance of taking care of their teeth and gums.

For an unprecedented 17th year, Crystal Cruises has been voted the "Best Large-Ship Cruise Line" for 2010 by the influential readers of Conde Nast Traveler magazine (U.S.). The ultra-luxury line holds the distinction of having won the award more than any other cruise line, hotel or resort in history.

"To win one Conde Nast Traveler award is truly gratifying. To win 17 times is a tribute to Crystal Cruises' outstanding people, who consistently exceed our guests' expectations with exceptional service and decidedly memorable Crystal experiences," says Gregg Michel, president, Crystal Cruises.

Considered one of the highest honors in hospitality, the Conde Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards celebrate the best-of-the-best hotels, airlines, cruise lines, cities, rental car companies and islands. More than 26,000 subscribers voted in the 2010 survey. Travelers evaluated cruise lines on their Activities/Facilities, Cabins, Crew/Service, Design/Layout, Food/Dining, Itineraries and Shore Excursions to determine the overall score. The full list of travel awards are published on the magazine's website and in its November 2010 issue.

Attesting to the consistency of its luxury travel experience, in 2010, Crystal was voted the "World's Best Large-Ship Cruise Line" by the readers of Travel + Leisure (U.S.) for a 15th consecutive year, and "Favourite Cruise Line- Large Ship" by the readers of Conde Nast Traveller (U.K.), as well as top honors from trusted travel agent consortiums and travel trade publications.

For an unprecedented 17th year, Crystal Cruises has been voted the "Best Large-Ship Cruise Line" for 2010 by the influential readers of Conde Nast Traveler magazine (U.S.). The ultra-luxury line holds the distinction of having won the award more than any other cruise line, hotel or resort in history.

"To win one Conde Nast Traveler award is truly gratifying. To win 17 times is a tribute to Crystal Cruises' outstanding people, who consistently exceed our guests' expectations with exceptional service and decidedly memorable Crystal experiences," says Gregg Michel, president, Crystal Cruises.

Considered one of the highest honors in hospitality, the Conde Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards celebrate the best-of-the-best hotels, airlines, cruise lines, cities, rental car companies and islands. More than 26,000 subscribers voted in the 2010 survey. Travelers evaluated cruise lines on their Activities/Facilities, Cabins, Crew/Service, Design/Layout, Food/Dining, Itineraries and Shore Excursions to determine the overall score. The full list of travel awards are published on the magazine's website and in its November 2010 issue.

Attesting to the consistency of its luxury travel experience, in 2010, Crystal was voted the "World's Best Large-Ship Cruise Line" by the readers of Travel + Leisure (U.S.) for a 15th consecutive year, and "Favourite Cruise Line- Large Ship" by the readers of Conde Nast Traveller (U.K.), as well as top honors from trusted travel agent consortiums and travel trade publications.

Do you find it difficult to consume the required amount of fruit and vegetables needed every day? If you’re constantly on the go, it can be difficult to plan out meals and be sure your getting all your daily nutrients. Garden Greens is a drink and supplement company bringing consumers the natural benefits of fruits, vegetable and herbs aimed at improving your quality of life.

Getting your daily of dose of vitamins and nutrients is as simple as preparing a tasty drink, shake or taking a vitamin. All of Garden Greens products contain high ORAC values (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity), which means that all these healthy options are high in antioxidant power and work to fight against free radicals in your body. They will help revitalize your health and increase your energy, metabolism and overall wellness.

Do you find it difficult to consume the required amount of fruit and vegetables needed every day? If you’re constantly on the go, it can be difficult to plan out meals and be sure your getting all your daily nutrients. Garden Greens is a drink and supplement company bringing consumers the natural benefits of fruits, vegetable and herbs aimed at improving your quality of life.

Getting your daily of dose of vitamins and nutrients is as simple as preparing a tasty drink, shake or taking a vitamin. All of Garden Greens products contain high ORAC values (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity), which means that all these healthy options are high in antioxidant power and work to fight against free radicals in your body. They will help revitalize your health and increase your energy, metabolism and overall wellness.

Do you find it difficult to consume the required amount of fruit and vegetables needed every day? If you’re constantly on the go, it can be difficult to plan out meals and be sure your getting all your daily nutrients. Garden Greens is a drink and supplement company bringing consumers the natural benefits of fruits, vegetable and herbs aimed at improving your quality of life.

Getting your daily of dose of vitamins and nutrients is as simple as preparing a tasty drink, shake or taking a vitamin. All of Garden Greens products contain high ORAC values (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity), which means that all these healthy options are high in antioxidant power and work to fight against free radicals in your body. They will help revitalize your health and increase your energy, metabolism and overall wellness.

Most people do not get the essential nutrients they need from their diets alone and with stressful lifestyles, your body can be depleted of necessary vitamins and minerals. On top of this, many brands on the market claim to offer nutritional and beneficial dietary supplements, but what you will find is that most vitamins contain only a tiny dose of the supplement. The rest is typically made up of fillers, like Acaia Gum or Sorbitol. With Avulite, you get 100 percent guaranteed nutritional potency in every product.

Avulite is an online supplier of the latest high-end health and beauty products. They have an excellent reputation for customer satisfaction, service, reliability and quality. Avulite offers vitamins, a weight loss supplement, antioxidant fruit and vegetable powders and tablets, organic fiber powder and antioxidant capsules.

These products are a great way to give your immune system and health a boost. Avulite’s capsules, Coenzyme-Q10, contain powerful antioxidant properties and research has shown that they can protect against free-radical damage to cell membranes, boost energy, support healthy blood pressure and more. It also may support healthy immune functions, resulting in less colds and illnesses- which is a huge plus during flu season!

Most people do not get the essential nutrients they need from their diets alone and with stressful lifestyles, your body can be depleted of necessary vitamins and minerals. On top of this, many brands on the market claim to offer nutritional and beneficial dietary supplements, but what you will find is that most vitamins contain only a tiny dose of the supplement. The rest is typically made up of fillers, like Acaia Gum or Sorbitol. With Avulite, you get 100 percent guaranteed nutritional potency in every product.

Avulite is an online supplier of the latest high-end health and beauty products. They have an excellent reputation for customer satisfaction, service, reliability and quality. Avulite offers vitamins, a weight loss supplement, antioxidant fruit and vegetable powders and tablets, organic fiber powder and antioxidant capsules.

These products are a great way to give your immune system and health a boost. Avulite’s capsules, Coenzyme-Q10, contain powerful antioxidant properties and research has shown that they can protect against free-radical damage to cell membranes, boost energy, support healthy blood pressure and more. It also may support healthy immune functions, resulting in less colds and illnesses- which is a huge plus during flu season!

The fountain of youth just might exist. Resveratrol, a polyphenol extracted from red wine grapes is known for having serious anti-aging and antioxidant properties. It’s been proven in clinical studies to enhance cellular productivity and slows down the degenerative effects of aging, and studies have shown that Resveratrol unlocks sirtuin 1, the “longevity gene”. What does all this mean for you? Youthfulness, more energy, and better health!

ResVitale understands that our bodies aren’t meant to process unnatural chemicals and toxins. For this reason, they’ve created Resveratrol manufactured by completely organic standards. They believe pure sources yield pure results, and it’s true: studies show that antioxidants are about 40% more powerful in organic products. ResVitale has set themselves apart from all other retailers by ensuring three key elements that ensure the highest quality of antioxidants: Vineology, Traceability, and Organics.

Travelers visiting Central Florida can enjoy a wide range of relaxing and refreshing Orlando spa services at Lighthouse Key's full service on-site European style spa.

Located on the second floor of Lighthouse Key Resort & Spa's Grand Clubhouse, The Spa at Lighthouse Key offers Orlando vacationers an extensive selection of spa treatments that include massage therapies, body and skin care, manicures, pedicures and a choice of relaxing spa packages.

Travelers can choose from several massage styles, including Swedish, Shiatsu, reflexology and aromatherapy. Guests staying at Lighthouse Key also have the option of scheduling a Swedish massage in their Disney area vacation rental.

The Hyatt Regency Tamaya, located between Santa Fe and Albuquerque in New Mexico, was recently named one of the nation's top resorts for its fourth year in a row by the readers of Conde Nast Traveler.  The resort was ranked in the top 100 U.S. resorts in the magazine's 2010 "Best in the World" Readers' Choice Awards issue.  In addition, the resort has received nine industry awards and accolades this year by the leading travel, golf, and professional meeting publications for its quality, service, and value.  

2010 (January to Date) Hyatt Regency Tamaya Honors and Accolades:

• Conde Nast Traveler: Ranked among the top 100 hotels in the "Best in the World" Readers' Choice Awards
• Golf Magazine: "Best Golf Resorts" Silver Medalist
• AAA: Ranked as a Four Diamond rated lodging
• Conde Nast Traveler: "Reserve List" of top-rated hotels
• Meetings & Conventions: "Gold Tee" award
• Perfect Wedding Guide: Named best for "Wedding Reception Location" and "Guest Accommodations"
• Conde Nast Traveler: Eleventh best resort spa in U.S.
• Meetings West: "Best in the West" award
• Conde Nast Traveler: Top five Western U.S. golf resorts

There's a brand new recovery drink in the fitness and beverage market that is designed to revive your body unlike other drinks in the same category. Code Blue, taken from the hospital term which means "resuscitate immediately," is an all natural drink targeted for consumption before, during and after stressful activities (i.e. exercise, a night out and frequent traveling.) Code Blue is only 40 calories, 9 grams of sugar and 10 grams of carbs and is free of preservatives and artificial colors. It not only has more electrolytes than most sports drinks, but provides you with the right amount of vitamins and minerals to help you recover quickly, as well as keep you hydrated and balanced.

Here's what's in it:

USA TODAY is increasing its commitment to American families' health and well-being with the launch of Your Life. Drawing on the clear and concise reporting style and infographics that USA TODAY is known for, this new multimedia companion will arm readers with the tools they need to thrive personally and professionally, care for themselves and their families, nourish their bodies, and shine through life's challenges.

Your Life's focus on mind, body and soul is anchored in four themes throughout the week: THRIVE on Mondays with preventive health and fitness along with inspirational and motivational features; CARE on Tuesdays, including parenting, care-giving, volunteering and philanthropy; NOURISH on Wednesdays, including diet and nutrition for the entire family; and SHINE on Thursdays, including beauty and grooming, looking good, self-confidence, life management and personal achievement.

Body wraps were all the rage a while back promising inches lost without any special dieting, all within the course of an hour. They slowly slipped off the radar, but never completely vanished. In fact there were wraps sold for home use such as that from Slimmer Silhouette. We're in the season that everyone wants to look their best for the holidays and subsequently kick off the new year with a new body, and for those who cannot afford the pricey membership to the gym, this may be the short-term solution that is bringing it back the body wrap.

Most health professionals agree that body wraps typically show a loss of inches as an effect of water loss. You wear the wrap from just about head to toe and sweat like there is no tomorrow flushing out toxins and losing inches in the process. Although, I'm pretty sure an intensive workout can do the same without being wrapped like a mummy. The only difference being that while working out you are also toning and shaping the body. 

The aforementioned Slimmer Silhouette says its targeted for inch loss, not through water loss or losing weight, although it uses the same method as other wraps--heat and minerals. 

So why the comeback? Are our wallets opening up again and we have the ability to splurge on a quick fix? Or are more people simply interested in the detoxifying effects?

Looking to get away? This captivating vacation resort offers everything you could ask for in leisure, relaxation and fun- all nestled in the charming scenery of the Pocono Mountains. Skytop Lodge Resort and Spa is known as a Member of the National Trust Historic Hotels of America. Since 1928, Skytop is a delightful travel destination with its historic accommodations and natural stonework design. The mountains give the resort a majestic character. “Up here you get the feeling that you’re on top of the world!”

Skytop is full of history and “natural wonder” that continues to bring guests back every year. The idea for an impressive, grand resort came in 1925 from four men, John Stubbs, Frederic Smith, Earl Mayne and Sam Packer during the post World War I prosperity. The 2,500 acre resort was built overlooking Skytop Lake and with the breathtaking mountains as the perfect backdrop. In June of 1928, the Lodge and Golf Course opened and in 1930 a dam was formed and the lake enlarged. To this day, cottages were built and the 2,000 acre Goose Pond area was added. Trails were laid out with accompanying maps for guests to enjoy nature’s peaceful beauty and charm. Some of wildlife you will encounter include wildflowers, birds, reptiles and signs of black bears, otters, porcupines, beavers, coyotes, bobcats, and minks.

Actress Suzanne Somers has had a long history of product promotion. She’s released numerous diet and self-help books, and has been the face of numerous weight loss and fitness products throughout the years. Her latest endorsement is for RestoreLife formulas, a purveyor of vitamins and supplements.

Somers was a good choice for the face of RestoreLife products. She’s known for being outspoken on a number of medical and health issues, and although some of her opinions have been criticized from time to time, she has solid opinions and supports things she believes in. Somers backs RestoreLife products and vouches for their purity and effectiveness.

RestoreLife’s nutritional supplements are made from the finest quality of natural ingredients and vitamins. The products have received 5-star reviews and customers continue to voice their satisfaction with the quality of the supplements. The best sampling of RestoreLife products is the 3-Pack Supplement Starter Kit. It includes Omega-3 Renew, Vitamin D3 Renew, and Resveratrol Renew, all products which promise to improve overall health and well-being for middle-aged and older women.

AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: AAI), is spreading holiday cheer to customers traveling this holiday season by offering them tips to help navigate busy airports with ease.

"The holiday travel season offers many challenges with getting gifts through security and increased congestion at airports, but there are ways to make the trip more pleasant," said Tad Hutcheson, AirTran Airways' vice president of marketing and sales. "That is why we decided to stuff our customers' stockings with great holiday travel tips."  

AirTran Airways offers the following list of travel tips and guidelines as a service to holiday travelers:

• Give the gift of order – According to the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA), the primary source of delayed screening times is overstuffed carry-on baggage. Make sure to de-clutter your bag to give screeners an uninhibited view of its content.
• Leave the Jingle Bells in your carry-on – Metal items like change, keys and jingle bells, are best carried inside of carry-on luggage. This helps expedite the screening process. Also, avoid wearing jewelry that features metal, as this will also slow up the screening process.
• Make a list and check it twice – As travelers endure the hustle and bustle of holiday travel it is easy to lose track of essential items like baggage, boarding passes and photo identification. Prior to arrival, develop a checklist of important items and make sure to place tags on you baggage so that you can readily identify it.  
• The weather outside could be frightful – Inclement weather conditions are always a possibility during the winter months, so make sure to log on to www.airtran.com to check your flight's status prior to leaving for the airport. Also, make sure to pack a cell phone charger in your carry-on baggage in case the weather causes a flight to be delayed.
• Say "Bah humbug" to wrapped gifts – Wrapping gifts is a holiday custom, but bringing them through security checkpoints may result in delays. If you plan to travel with wrapped gifts, ship them to your destination ahead of time or wrap them when reaching your destination.
• "T'was the night before your flight," and you should check-in – To avoid lengthy airport lines, check-in for your flight as early as 24 hours prior to departure at airtran.com. It will help expedite the boarding process.
• Leave the figgy pudding and eggnog at home – Items like these might be a delectable holiday treats, but containers of any liquid exceeding 3.4 ounces are not allowed to be carried through the security checkpoint. Also, food items are subject to additional screening.
• Make sure everyone knows who's coming to town – To ensure a smooth trip through security, make sure that the name listed on your identification matches the name on your boarding pass.  

For more information on permitted or prohibited items, visit the TSA Web site at www.tsa.gov.

If you’re working on an aromatherapy story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie Wellness PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

Brazil is quickly emerging as a hot spot for beauty...but so is Russia, and Brazilian beauty brand, Natura is looking to expand their successful cosmetics and skin care brand into like-minded emerging markets to spawn growth.

The natural cosmetics brand is looking to take their international sales from 3% to 10% in the next 5 years with eyes on the US, Russia and UK markets. That's an ambitious plan in light of a global economy that seems to walk on egg shells just about every few weeks. However, the beauty industry continues to grow, especially in Russia, which has seen double digits in its growth over the last few years. I recently wrote about Unilever acquiring Kalin Cosmetics in Russia for this very reason. 

Natura is a direct sales company, of which MLM companies such as Avon and MaryKay, have become more mainstream, paving the way for international direct sales companies to set up shop here in the US seamlessly.

How do you think Natura will fare once it expands more internationally? Tweet us @PiercemattiePR.

Now more than ever, people of all ages across the world are thinking about quality of life, good health, and physical problems connected to long-term conditions like diabetes. Renown author Dr. Naheed Ali answers these calls and focuses on life-changing antidotes to help diabetics live a healthier, more fulfilling life in his new book titled "Diabetes and You: A Comprehensive, Holistic Approach."

"The aim is to promote healthy living as a diabetes patient throughout the world through this simple medical guide book. The information is presented in a zero-nonsense, straight-to-the-point way," observes the author. The book "also reveals how diabetes breeds stress and how you can overcome the disease in more ways than one."

If you grew up watching Alison Sweeney on Days of Our Lives like I did, I'm sure you will agree that you feel a sort of kinship with her. And I can relate to her now, more than ever, in this season of my life. Just like her, I am a mom (although take her kids times 2 for me) and juggling a fast paced career. And just like her, and most other women who have had children, I struggled (and still do) with my weight post-pregnancy. Much like the website/blog in her namesake is friendly and most of all, real, so is her new book The Mommy Diet.

As host of The Biggest Loser, I'm sure Ali learned a thing or two about diet and exercise. I'm equally as sure that she listened to feedback from the public on what they like about Biggest Loser and what they don't. And as most of us know, we are more likely to be encouraged and motivated by diet tips that we can easily assimilate into our own individual lifestyles than by military style regimens. 

Sure to be a hit, The Mommy Diet, will guide you step by step through pregnancy and thereafter so that you can be healthy and not have to worry about carrying around that "baby weight"...even when your youngest is now in preschool. (Not speaking from experience or anything!)

Check out The Mommy Diet on Amazon.com and see all of Alison Sweeney's health, fitness and lifestyle tips on her website www.AlisonSweeney.com.

Yoga is meant to be more than just a physical workout – it’s an exercise that unites mind, body, and spirit. If you stop to think about it, it seems only natural for a yoga clothing and gear store to take the same holistic approach to selling a product. After learning about Lululemon Athletica and the way they treat their employees, customers, and local community, I’m at a loss as to why I’ve ever bought yoga gear from any other store.

In 1998, Surfer, skater, and yogi Chip Wilson set out to make yoga clothing that was more than just cotton. He wanted to make athletic fabric, and began a yoga shop that doubled as a studio during the night hours to pay the rent. While the arrangement initially only served a practical purpose, it became clear that this concept of a store/studio hybrid was something to be considered.

Now, almost 13 years later, Lululemon has evolved from an ordinary clothing store into a sanctum sanctorum for yoga lovers everywhere. It’s the company outlook that sets Lululemon apart from other yoga clothing retailers. The workplace environment brings the practice of yoga full-circle, and the store workers fully embody the Lululemon manifesto –which, by the way, isn’t a one-liner slogan, but a combination of over 20 inspirational quotes.

Building on the tremendous success of last year's event, World Tea Expo, the largest and most prominent event for the tea industry, is preparing to gather thousands of professionals for a packed three-day agenda of tea learning and business-growing activities. The Expo, which is set to offer numerous new product launches and hands-on educational and networking opportunities, takes place June 24 – 26 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Conference registration and additional details are available at www.WorldTeaExpo.com.

As the annual trade event for the $8 billion tea industry*, which is expected to grow to nearly $15 billion in 2012*, World Tea Expo brings more than 4,000 attendees to Las Vegas, Nevada for the annual convention. Delegates gain extensive product knowledge, connect with peers, visit more than 200 exposition booths and experience 200+ tea product unveilings. In addition, the event features more than 60 conference sessions, including hands-on skill building workshops, focused tea tastings, technical education and insightful industry round tables.

The New York Times Magazine features Pierce Mattie PR'wellness client VitaMan. If you’re working on a men's grooming story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

SPA 7 has joined the Equinox family, completing the full-service beauty trilogy of Fitness Club, Day Spa and now Medical Spa while delivering on the tagline "It's not fitness. It's life."  SPA 7's medical team is headed by Azita Simoni, M.D., specialty trained at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, board certified in dermatology, and complimented by Registered Nurses experienced in cosmetic procedures.  Clients, including notable celebrities, can now complete their physical transformation with laser hair removal, skin rejuvenation procedures, and VASER® Shape non-surgical cellulite reduction and body contouring.

February 7, 4:00 to 9:00pm is the official launch with a VIP Private Event Night hosted by SPA 7 and EQUINOX, providing complimentary paraffin hand treatments, foot reflexology, mini facials, massages, chiropractic assessments by Active Body Chiro-Care, and laser and body contouring consultations with SPA 7's medical team, plus refreshments and giveaways at the West Hollywood, CA location, 8590 Sunset Boulevard. Limited space available, RSVP by emailing events@spa7ca.com.

According to Azita Simoni, M.D., "SPA 7 not only offers the most innovative procedures, from Photo-Facial/IPL, Laser 360™ to Medical Body Contouring MC-1, but clients also reap the benefits of complimentary Equinox full gym and spa facility access the day of their treatment, including group fitness, yoga and boxing classes, cardio and strength equipment, locker rooms, and private Spa sundeck."  SPA 7 is rolling out in multiple Equinox locations, starting with West Hollywood then Century City.

The trilogy of services follows the trend of medical spas leading spa growth with services increasing over 30% per year and approaching a $20 billion industry. This is primarily thanks to baby boomers, with an increasing number of X and Y generation clientele who start preserving their youth early. This follows the downward trend of surgical treatments due to the improvement of non-invasive techniques, including decrease in recovery time.

SPA 7's founder, Richard Penfil, M.D., recognized this trend as a partnership opportunity with Equinox.  "The convergence of the spa industry with the medical industry has resulted in the most effective medically approved and administered cosmetic services offered, with the least amount of treatment and recovery time needed," said Penfil.  "We are helping Equinox continue its position as industry leader by leveraging more sophisticated and complete medical approaches to beauty and overall wellness."

Recent government sodium intake guidelines only re-confirms what those in the health industry have been proposing for a while. Cut back on the salt or your health is at risk.

Those with hypertension, chronic kidney disease or who have diabetes, as well as African Americans, are suggested to cut back their sodium intake to just a half a teaspoon per day. Anyone 51 or older are also recommended to follow the guideline. While those who are considered in good health are suggested to only have a teaspoon per day of sodium. 

For food companies already marketing low-sodium foods, this new government guideline may help to provide a boost in sales. Not to mention publicity that will put another positive spin on their products. 

AlsoSalt, a salt substitute, has a great list of low sodium foods on their website, as well as an explanation of low sodium food labels. You can also find the Pocket Guide to Low Sodium Foods here as well. 

Will you be cutting back on your salt intake? Tweet us your response @PierceMattiePR.

Janet Jackson has always publicly talked about her struggle with her weight, no thanks in part to the tabloids who blast her each time she gains or loses a dress size. Even today, as I stood at the convenience store there was a tabloid where they had her on the front page with claims that she gained weight. As we've watched her ups and downs over the years, we have always rooted for her, because despite being in the public eye for all of her life as part of the Jackson family, she remains a very down to earth and beautiful person.

In conjunction with the launch of her new tour, she has also launched a wellness book. "True You: A Journey to Finding and Loving Yourself" focuses on Jackson's story of her struggle with body image from her pre-teen years until today. With constant reinforcement from those around her and the media that her body was not right, her self esteem dwindled leading to ups and downs in her weight well into adulthood. 

Her story is honest and raw, and revealing of who she really is. For those of us who have battled the rollercoaster ride of self worth as seen through our body image, this is one book you will want to read. Find it at Amazon.com.  Let us know your thoughts via on our Twitter page at @PierceMattiePR.com

TravelToiletryKits.com announces the availability of many new travel size and trial size toiletry products. For example, now available is MB3 (Mini-Bidet 3): Personal Hygiene. MB3 is a soothing external peri-anal cleansing lotion. When applied to toilet paper for the final wipe, it improves personal hygiene without the use of harsh irritating chemicals. MB3 won't dissolve toilet paper on contact and glides easily on the skin.

Also now available is Bed Bug Patrol Luggage Spray. When sprayed on luggage while traveling, it deters the transfer of bed bugs from hotel or other travel accommodations to one's home. Bed Bug Patrol is environmentally friendly and made from all natural ingredients.

TravelToiletryKits.com now also features all natural travel size products from Indigo Wild, including Zum goat's milk bar soap, Zum Kiss Stick lip balm, Zum goat's milk and shea butter body rub, Zum body lotion, Zum Face facial soap and oil, and Zip's Scab Dab all natural antiseptic.

Finally, TravelToiletryKits.com has added numerous other new travel and trial size toiletry products, including Poo-Pourri odor eliminator bathroom sprays, Axe Deodorant body sprays, St. Ives moisturizers and body wash, as well as dental floss, lip balms, shampoos, conditioners, hair sprays, hand sanitizers, bar soaps, and baby care products from a variety of manufacturers.

The oatmeal bath is a traditional method of soothing irritated skin. Aura Cacia has improved upon this traditional home remedy by developing a unique blend of organic oatmeal, organic milk and organic essential oils. Previously available with only organic lavender essential oil, the experts at Aura Cacia are adding organic Helichrysum with Lemon Balm and organic Chamomile essential oil options.

The oatmeal bath is a traditional method of soothing irritated skin. Aura Cacia has improved upon this traditional home remedy by developing a unique blend of organic oatmeal, organic milk and organic essential oils. Previously available with only organic lavender essential oil, the experts at Aura Cacia are adding organic Helichrysum with Lemon Balm and organic Chamomile essential oil options.

A new scientific review has concluded that bitter orange and bitter orange extract are safe in normal use as foods and ingredients in dietary supplements.(1) The extensively peer-reviewed safety evaluation was just published in HerbalGram, the quarterly journal of the American Botanical Council, an independent nonprofit research and education organization.

The safety review was conducted by two medicinal plant experts, Sidney J. Stohs, Ph.D., Dean Emeritus of the Creighton University School of Pharmacy and Health Professions, and Harry G. Preuss, MD, Professor of Medicine and Pathology at Georgetown University Medical Center.

Bitter orange—also known as Seville orange (Citrus aurantium)—and its peel have long been used as a food. It is the primary ingredient in orange marmalade throughout Europe. The dried immature fruits of bitter orange have various medicinal uses in Traditional Chinese Medicine, particularly for gastrointestinal disorders, including indigestion, diarrhea and dysentery, constipation, and use as an expectorant.

Bitter orange extracts increased in popularity in herbal dietary supplements circa 2004 after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration banned the controversial herb ephedra (Ephedra sinica), also known in Chinese as ma huang. Because bitter orange contains the a chemical known as p-synephrine, many writers and regulators incorrectly assumed that bitter orange was potentially unsafe, as a chemical type of synephrine—m-synephrine, which is not found in bitter orange—can have pronounced effects on the cardiovascular system.

A new scientific review has concluded that bitter orange and bitter orange extract are safe in normal use as foods and ingredients in dietary supplements.(1) The extensively peer-reviewed safety evaluation was just published in HerbalGram, the quarterly journal of the American Botanical Council, an independent nonprofit research and education organization.

The safety review was conducted by two medicinal plant experts, Sidney J. Stohs, Ph.D., Dean Emeritus of the Creighton University School of Pharmacy and Health Professions, and Harry G. Preuss, MD, Professor of Medicine and Pathology at Georgetown University Medical Center.

Bitter orange—also known as Seville orange (Citrus aurantium)—and its peel have long been used as a food. It is the primary ingredient in orange marmalade throughout Europe. The dried immature fruits of bitter orange have various medicinal uses in Traditional Chinese Medicine, particularly for gastrointestinal disorders, including indigestion, diarrhea and dysentery, constipation, and use as an expectorant.

Bitter orange extracts increased in popularity in herbal dietary supplements circa 2004 after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration banned the controversial herb ephedra (Ephedra sinica), also known in Chinese as ma huang. Because bitter orange contains the a chemical known as p-synephrine, many writers and regulators incorrectly assumed that bitter orange was potentially unsafe, as a chemical type of synephrine—m-synephrine, which is not found in bitter orange—can have pronounced effects on the cardiovascular system.

A new scientific review has concluded that bitter orange and bitter orange extract are safe in normal use as foods and ingredients in dietary supplements.(1) The extensively peer-reviewed safety evaluation was just published in HerbalGram, the quarterly journal of the American Botanical Council, an independent nonprofit research and education organization.

The safety review was conducted by two medicinal plant experts, Sidney J. Stohs, Ph.D., Dean Emeritus of the Creighton University School of Pharmacy and Health Professions, and Harry G. Preuss, MD, Professor of Medicine and Pathology at Georgetown University Medical Center.

Bitter orange—also known as Seville orange (Citrus aurantium)—and its peel have long been used as a food. It is the primary ingredient in orange marmalade throughout Europe. The dried immature fruits of bitter orange have various medicinal uses in Traditional Chinese Medicine, particularly for gastrointestinal disorders, including indigestion, diarrhea and dysentery, constipation, and use as an expectorant.

Bitter orange extracts increased in popularity in herbal dietary supplements circa 2004 after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration banned the controversial herb ephedra (Ephedra sinica), also known in Chinese as ma huang. Because bitter orange contains the a chemical known as p-synephrine, many writers and regulators incorrectly assumed that bitter orange was potentially unsafe, as a chemical type of synephrine—m-synephrine, which is not found in bitter orange—can have pronounced effects on the cardiovascular system.

A new scientific review has concluded that bitter orange and bitter orange extract are safe in normal use as foods and ingredients in dietary supplements.(1) The extensively peer-reviewed safety evaluation was just published in HerbalGram, the quarterly journal of the American Botanical Council, an independent nonprofit research and education organization.

The safety review was conducted by two medicinal plant experts, Sidney J. Stohs, Ph.D., Dean Emeritus of the Creighton University School of Pharmacy and Health Professions, and Harry G. Preuss, MD, Professor of Medicine and Pathology at Georgetown University Medical Center.

Bitter orange—also known as Seville orange (Citrus aurantium)—and its peel have long been used as a food. It is the primary ingredient in orange marmalade throughout Europe. The dried immature fruits of bitter orange have various medicinal uses in Traditional Chinese Medicine, particularly for gastrointestinal disorders, including indigestion, diarrhea and dysentery, constipation, and use as an expectorant.

Bitter orange extracts increased in popularity in herbal dietary supplements circa 2004 after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration banned the controversial herb ephedra (Ephedra sinica), also known in Chinese as ma huang. Because bitter orange contains the a chemical known as p-synephrine, many writers and regulators incorrectly assumed that bitter orange was potentially unsafe, as a chemical type of synephrine—m-synephrine, which is not found in bitter orange—can have pronounced effects on the cardiovascular system.

FRS Healthy Energy will launch new Healthy Protein and Healthy Energy formulas this April.  The new lines will debut in a sleek, environmentally friendly re-sealable plastic bottle.  Both products will be fueled by the patented FRS quercetin formula.  Quercetin, recently granted GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status by the Food and Drug Administration, is the natural energy-boosting antioxidant based in all FRS products. To date, FRS® Healthy Energy® products contain the highest level of quercetin (QU995) on the market.

Both innovative formulas were rigorously tested and highly preferred by consumers.  The much anticipated Healthy Protein option will initially debut two invigorating flavors at only 190 calories— Orange Cream and Blackberry Acai.  Together with the patented FRS formula, each 12 ounce bottle provides 25 grams of whey protein and includes 7 grams of dietary fiber and essential vitamins.  

FRS Healthy Energy will launch new Healthy Protein and Healthy Energy formulas this April.  The new lines will debut in a sleek, environmentally friendly re-sealable plastic bottle.  Both products will be fueled by the patented FRS quercetin formula.  Quercetin, recently granted GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status by the Food and Drug Administration, is the natural energy-boosting antioxidant based in all FRS products. To date, FRS® Healthy Energy® products contain the highest level of quercetin (QU995) on the market.

Both innovative formulas were rigorously tested and highly preferred by consumers.  The much anticipated Healthy Protein option will initially debut two invigorating flavors at only 190 calories— Orange Cream and Blackberry Acai.  Together with the patented FRS formula, each 12 ounce bottle provides 25 grams of whey protein and includes 7 grams of dietary fiber and essential vitamins.  

FRS Healthy Energy will launch new Healthy Protein and Healthy Energy formulas this April.  The new lines will debut in a sleek, environmentally friendly re-sealable plastic bottle.  Both products will be fueled by the patented FRS quercetin formula.  Quercetin, recently granted GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status by the Food and Drug Administration, is the natural energy-boosting antioxidant based in all FRS products. To date, FRS® Healthy Energy® products contain the highest level of quercetin (QU995) on the market.

Both innovative formulas were rigorously tested and highly preferred by consumers.  The much anticipated Healthy Protein option will initially debut two invigorating flavors at only 190 calories— Orange Cream and Blackberry Acai.  Together with the patented FRS formula, each 12 ounce bottle provides 25 grams of whey protein and includes 7 grams of dietary fiber and essential vitamins.  

FRS Healthy Energy will launch new Healthy Protein and Healthy Energy formulas this April.  The new lines will debut in a sleek, environmentally friendly re-sealable plastic bottle.  Both products will be fueled by the patented FRS quercetin formula.  Quercetin, recently granted GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status by the Food and Drug Administration, is the natural energy-boosting antioxidant based in all FRS products. To date, FRS® Healthy Energy® products contain the highest level of quercetin (QU995) on the market.

Both innovative formulas were rigorously tested and highly preferred by consumers.  The much anticipated Healthy Protein option will initially debut two invigorating flavors at only 190 calories— Orange Cream and Blackberry Acai.  Together with the patented FRS formula, each 12 ounce bottle provides 25 grams of whey protein and includes 7 grams of dietary fiber and essential vitamins.  

FRS Healthy Energy will launch new Healthy Protein and Healthy Energy formulas this April.  The new lines will debut in a sleek, environmentally friendly re-sealable plastic bottle.  Both products will be fueled by the patented FRS quercetin formula.  Quercetin, recently granted GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status by the Food and Drug Administration, is the natural energy-boosting antioxidant based in all FRS products. To date, FRS® Healthy Energy® products contain the highest level of quercetin (QU995) on the market.

Both innovative formulas were rigorously tested and highly preferred by consumers.  The much anticipated Healthy Protein option will initially debut two invigorating flavors at only 190 calories— Orange Cream and Blackberry Acai.  Together with the patented FRS formula, each 12 ounce bottle provides 25 grams of whey protein and includes 7 grams of dietary fiber and essential vitamins.  

Counting calories can be a real pain. Especially when you're dining out and unsure of how many calories is in your penne pasta that you ordered from your favorite restaurant. It's much easier to count them when you are cooking your food, but it can be a different story when you're out dining.

Introducing Pocket Posh Dining Out Calorie Counter: Your Guide to Thousands of Foods from Your Favorite Restaurants. This compact book was written by nutritionist Pamela Nisevich Bede. This woman knows a thing or two about what it means to be eat and exercise a healthy lifestyle. I mean she has ran about 13 marathons to date. With this book, she wants her readers to be able to live the best life that they can and be able to moderate the foods that are going into their system.

We’ve all been there – the jeans we threw on yesterday morning somehow don’t seem to fit this afternoon. It can be a serious blow to the ego, but it’s important to remember that it’s probably not the result of rapid weight gain, but rather from bloating or another gastrointestinal issue.

Problems like these arise from time to time, and it’s important for women to have the answers to any stomach issues they may have. The new book A Woman’s Guide to a Healthy Stomach is a trusty little handbook that addresses many common questions about the stomach problems that plague women everywhere. When over 70 million Americans are affected by digestive problems, it’s vital for women (who are especially vulnerable) to get the help and relief they need.

Dr. Jacqueline L. Wolf is a leading expert in gastrointestinal health and has laid out the causes and remedies for the most-loathed ailments, including constipation, acid reflux, and IBS. Dr. Wolf also makes a point to address more serious but very real stomach conditions like Crohn’s disease and endometriosis.

April is National Soyfoods Month, and finding delicious soy-based foods at affordable prices has never been easier. During April several Soyfoods Association of North America (SANA) members are offering coupons and discounts on a variety of tasty soyfoods, making this month a great time for consumers who may not be as familiar with the various soy products to try them for the first time.  The promotions should also appeal to the soy enthusiasts, motivating them to visit their local grocery stores and stock up.

Many of the most prominent voices for change in the food movement and a growing number of health, hunger, and sustainable agriculture groups today announced plans for Food Day—a nationwide campaign to change the way Americans eat and think about food. Organized by the Center for Science in the Public Interest, Food Day will encourage people around the country to sponsor or participate in activities that encourage Americans to "eat real" and support healthy, affordable food grown in a sustainable, humane way.

Food Day will be observed on and about Monday, October 24, 2011, and will likely include a series of marquee events in Washington, New York City, San Francisco, and other major cities, and thousands of smaller events around the country.

Lace up your sneakers, add some spring to your step and join Coca-Cola and TV's popular medical and diet expert, Dr. Ian Smith on The Makeover Mile!  This new initiative from Dr. Ian brings a one-mile walk and health fair to Atlanta to educate residents on living a more active, healthy lifestyle.  The walks were created as an extension of Dr. Ian's popular 50 Million Pound Challenge program and are being made possible, in part, by Coca-Cola's Live Positively initiative.  

I am a beauty addict. I love coming home after a long day and putting on a facial mask like I'm relaxing at my favorite spa. Unfortunately, I can't always get to the spa as frequent as possible. Not only that, there's no way I can manifest some of the amazing treatments that they use on my skin. Until now.

Former fashion model, Dawn Gallagher, and Jody Raida have created an awesome book full of at home spa treatments. Using ingredients that can be found in your kitchen, Nature's Beauty Secrets explains how you create amazing home facials and much more. Need a new hair remedy? Try her olive oil hair treatment. Want to wash your face and not use the same chemical-induced ingredients? Attempt to use the bowl of oats face scrub. I promise your skin will thank you.

It seems that there’s a new diet fad every day. We’ve tried the low-carb diet, the low-sugar diet, the cabbage soup diet…heck, even that wacky lemonade juice diet. Faced with so many fads, how is the average person supposed to choose a diet plan that’s not only effective, but healthy too?

The truth is, losing weight doesn’t come down to dieting. It comes down to making a healthy life change in terms of our eating that will fuel both mind and body. Cherie Calbom, better known as the Juice Lady, has found through research that a live food lifestyle is one of the most beneficial diet changes we can make for ourselves. Her new book, Living Foods Revolution explains the benefits of “live” foods backed by scientific research.

“Live” food, or more simply, raw food has been proven to enhance cell communication, resulting in a healthier, energetic, and more vibrant you. Aside from increased happiness, raw foods are also linked to disease prevention and better skin. The Juice Lady isn’t suggesting you switch to an all-raw diet, but by incorporating more raw foods into meals daily, she promises you will see results and feel more energetic almost instantly.

I always try to find new ways to cook my dinners with exciting recipes that are also very healthy. As great as some things are for you, not everything tastes as wonderful as it looks. Authors Carol Field Dahlstrom, Elizabeth Dahlstrom Burnley and Marcia Schultz Dahlstrom wanted to make sure that they made their foods aesthetically pleasing and delicious all at the same time.

Introducing Gluten-Free Made Simple: Everyday Meals That Everyone Can Enjoy. Within the pages of this book are over 100 delectable recipes that are gluten-free. And you may ask, “What does that mean?” Well, gluten is a food additive that is comes from wheat, rye and barley. This protein is not always the healthiest and eating without it can decrease your chances of getting Celiac disease. Eating a gluten-free diet is the only known treatment for this disease.

Our smiles are a reflection of ourselves. A bright, confident smile suggests a person who takes pride in their appearance. Only a lucky few are born with the “perfect” smile, but there are countless options on the market today to help improve your grin.

How can you decide which cosmetic treatment is right for you? Drs. Colleen and Jason Olitsky’s new book The Naked Tooth can help you sort through an overwhelming number of dental and cosmetic options. Dental procedures aren’t cheap, and the Olitsky's find it shameful that so many people walk away from a cosmetic makeover disappointed with the results. Their book offers helpful tips and tricks on finding the right cosmetic dentist for the procedure that works for you.

Cosmetic dental results should look natural, so it’s important that every procedure is performed by a cosmetic dentist, not just a dental practitioner. The Olitskys expose the dental industry for a lack of cosmetic experience, which is the reason behind poor cosmetic results and unhappy patients. The duo offers tips and tricks on finding the right doctor to perform cosmetic procedures, and they explore the best options to improve your smile.

I’ll admit – when it comes to beauty products, I have a habit of developing harmless but slightly intense addictions. Lip balm is one of them, and I’ve noticed that it’s a compulsion for many other women too. We may joke around, but when articles and news segments have been dedicated to lip balm addictions, it begs the question…can you really get hooked on your chapstick, or is it just a hoax?

Scientists at TheBeautyBrains.com answer pressing beauty questions like these on a daily basis. Now, cosmetic formulator (and professional joggler) Perry Romanowski has compiled answers to beauty lover’s top questions in his aptly-titled book, Can You Get Hooked on Lip Balm?

From magazines to microblogs, it can be hard to escape the constant back-and-forth of beauty banter. When so many people are sharing their personal beauty beliefs, myths tend to creep into the conversation…and that’s where Can You Get Hooked on Lip Balm comes in. Once and for all, the most common beauty myths are expelled, top questions answered, and Romanowski even offers advice on how to shop smarter based on how cosmetic products work.

Yoga is the best stress reliever around. For someone who does not like to do heavy, high impact workouts, yoga suits me best. Because of this, I have recently discovered Hugger Mugger. The brand was created by Sara Chambers and produces high quality and environmentally friendly products ideal for any yogi.

I love how the name Hugger Mugger literally means to conceal. One of their first products, which happen to have the same name as the brand, are their unisex shorts ($36.95) that are perfect to have on during your yoga or Pilates exercise. They're the very shorts that got this brand its clever name. The thigh hugging bands are great because they allow you to bend over and stretch without having to worry if you're shorts are riding up.

Everyone thinks their mom is a "Super Mom," but some really do set themselves apart from the crowd.  Case in point, Brenda Novak is a mother of five, a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, and she organizes her annual Online Auction for Diabetes Research, which takes place at BrendaNovak.com throughout the month of May in honor of Mother's Day and benefits the cure-focused work of the Diabetes Research Institute. What's more, her son, Thad, has type 1 diabetes – a relentless disease that affects the whole family and requires constant attention.

"If you're not close to someone with diabetes, you don't know how all-consuming this disease can be," said Novak.  "I feel like I don't really have the luxury of putting something off until tomorrow.  I want a cure for Thad now and for the millions of people living with diabetes."

Novak applies that drive to her unique online auction, which last year surpassed $1 million raised for diabetes research and attracted more than 5,000 bidders throughout the country and beyond.  Due to Novak's close connections in the literary world, the auction boasts an array of one-of-a-kind items, such as: royal afternoon tea for four with "Princess Diaries" author Meg Cabot in New York City's Plaza Hotel;  a Wi-Fi Amazon Kindle package from bestselling author Carly Phillips that includes an ARC (Advance Reader Copy) of her book "Solidarity;" a week's stay at the beautiful guest house of Cherry Adair in Seattle; plus lunches with prominent authors Diana Gabaldon and Steve Berry, a stay at Nora Roberts' romantic inn and more.  

For those who are not aspiring writers or literary buffs, a plethora of popular items perfect for Mother's Day gifts and more include jewelry, iPads, world-class getaways, an $8,500 ring similar to the one Prince William gave Kate Middleton, and a VIP package to attend a taping of the smash television sitcom, "The Big Bang Theory."  The bidding starts at $2 for all items; participants can literally end up with bargains beyond their dreams!

"Each year, Brenda sets the bar higher and higher, and it's no surprise given her tremendous energy and dedication," said Robert A. Pearlman, president and CEO of the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation. "With partners like Brenda, I have no doubt that we can achieve our goal to cure diabetes once and for all."

Call Pierce Mattie directly at 212-789-1060 to book Brenda Novak for a TV appearance or interview. 

The disproportionately high levels of omega-6 fatty acids in the diet and the need for more omega-3 oils in the foods Americans eat are at the heart of the country’s obesity crisis, Dr. Barry Sears, bestselling author of “The Zone,” creator of the Zone Diet and founder of ZoneDiet.com, said.

“Relying simply on eating less and exercising more is not enough because the obesity problem is far more intricate,” Dr. Sears said. “Too many omega-6 fatty acids in the diet promote inflammation, while omega-3 fatty acids decrease inflammation. People need a one-to-one balance of omega-6 to omega-3 in the diet, just like it was a century ago, rather than today’s approximate 20-to-one ratio.”

SpaFinder, Inc., the global spa and wellness resource announced its annual spa trend forecast, now in its eighth year. SpaFinder’s Spa Trend Report identifies global spa trends that will influence spa experiences for both consumers and the industry in the coming year and for decades to come.

The report is based on analyses from a large team of experts who visit hundreds of day and stay spas each year; interviews with top industry analysts; ongoing research across the spa, travel and beauty sectors; and data derived from SpaFinder’s relationships with over 9,000 spas and salons across the globe.

The Spa Trend Report is developed under the direction of SpaFinder President Susie Ellis, who is also the author of an influential blog and column and a contributing editor to NewBeauty magazine. Ellis is credited for being the first to forecast numerous industry “mega-trends” that have taken hold in spas around the world.

“As someone who’s watched the modern spa industry from its infancy, I have never seen the aggregate level of creativity and talent in the field, as wellness, fitness, beauty, design and cuisine are blended in unique new ways, just as the economy begins its upswing,” Ellis says.

2011 SPA TREND REPORT™

1. AGING…RAGING

Baby boomers are the fastest-growing demographic in the world. In the U.S. alone, 39 million consumers account for nearly $2 trillion in annual spending. This is not lost on spas, which are showing ever-more awareness of the needs of older spa-goers. Modeling after pioneers such as Canyon Ranch, many spas are now beginning to incorporate exercise physiologists, chiropractors, orthopedics and naturopaths who focus on rejuvenation of joints, pain relief and mobility. Thermal bathing is seeing a renaissance, particularly with this growing group, as the benefits of soaking – or santias per acqua – are rediscovered.

But woe is the spa that attempts to label this active, and often affluent, demographic. The days of “over 65” as a catchall category will soon become ancient history. After all, there’s a huge difference between a 70-year-old who plays tennis three times a week and an 85-year-old seeking pain relief.

Forward-thinking examples: Fairmont’s Willow Stream Spas; Scandinave and Le Nordic models in Canada; and the Hakone Kowakien Yunessun in Japan.

Now you don’t have to guess and speculate about the vitamins your body needs. Nature’s Code, promoted by Dr. Edward Taub and Dr. James Rouse, is a wellness brand that produces vitamins and supplements to suit different health needs. Dr. James Rouse has had many years of experience in the health field including being a naturopathic doctor, QVC wellness doctor, a certified yoga instructor, wellness magazine founder, author, radio talk show host, and television personality. He believes that if people adopt a lifestyle that includes a healthy diet, diet supplements, positive thoughts, and exercise they can achieve optimum wellness.

Nature’s Code has supplements for various needs including bone support, cognitive support, digestive support, energy support, general health, to name a few. Nature’s Code really tried to meet every need and even produces vitamins in pill and liquid form to suit different preferences. This brand also produces healthy and delicious juice drinks and nutrition bars.

The first annual Colorado Lavender Festival will take place July 15-17 in the western Colorado town of Palisade.

Hosted by the Lavender Association of Western Colorado, the event will include self-guided and guided lavender farm tours to visit area growers in peak bloom season. The July 16 Festival in the Park will feature workshops, seminars and question-and-answer sessions on topics ranging from starting a lavender farm to lavender growing tips, history, uses and cooking. An expert from Colorado State University Extension will present lavender research project highlights and a lecture on local growing information.

Attendees can take part in a hands-on demonstration in lavender aromatherapy, essential oil usage and crafts. The event also will include activities for children, live entertainment, music, food and retail vendors with lavender-inspired merchandise.

The climate in western Colorado provides optimal growing conditions for lavender, according to the Lavender Association of Western Colorado. Two types of lavender – English lavender and lavandin – grow particularly well in the state.

Do you ever feel like your mattress isn’t giving you the comfort you body needs for a good night of sleep? Then you should give Pedic Solutions a try! Pedic Solutions mattresses conform to your body and reduce pressure points allowing you to be completely relaxed and have a comfortable night’s sleep.And as studies continue to show, 7-8 hours of restful sleep each night does wonders for your overall health.

Pedic Solutions was created by Dr. Ana Lavdas whose goal was to help patients who cannot sleep and improve their overall wellness. Being a clinical practitioner, Dr. Lavdas believes that sleep is extremely important for a balanced life. Therefore, she created Pedic Solutions to help people lead a healthier lifestyle. She did not just stop with the creation of Pedic Solutions, but keeps making technological changes to the mattresses to ensure customers will get the best sleep that they can have.

New-York-City based creative collective Joya specializes in fragrances. Founded in 2004 by Yale-graduate Federick Bouchardy, the company places a heavy emphasis on natural, high quality products. Derived from the Spanish word for “jewel,” Joya is known for the unique, crystalline formula used for the wax of their specialty candles.

Fusing natural materials with bold scents, the brand has created distinct collections. Each item is hand crafted to ensure the process is environmentally friendly. The company clearly reports how materials are acquired and processed, reassuring consumers that their carbon footprint is miniscule.

"The Dr. Oz Show" won two Emmy Awards last night for Outstanding Informative Talk Show and Outstanding Talk Show Host at the 2011 Daytime Emmy Awards, winning in all categories in which the show was nominated. This is the second Emmy Award for host Dr. Mehmet Oz, M.D., who won last year in the show's inaugural season. This is the first Emmy Award for "The Dr. Oz Show" production team led by executive producer, Mindy Borman, and co-executive producer, Amy Chiaro, after being nominated in the prior season.

"This award is so encouraging because it means our show is resonating with viewers," said Borman. "The staff here work tirelessly to deliver the highest quality television, but we also see our work as getting America to be healthier. It's a mission we feel in our hearts and souls."

Donna Gates, author of The Baby Boomers Diet, has written and published three other nutritional books. The lecturer and nutritional consultant's first book, The Body Ecology Diet, was written after her struggle with finding a cure to candidiasissince when doctors and medicine were of no help.

The Body Ecology Diet is about building up your immune system so candidaisas and other immune related disorders stop reoccurring. Based on many of the ideas of the original Body Ecology Diet, this new installment focuses primarily one one generation, baby boomers. This new book gives anti-aging secrets and ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle and diet, such as the BED diet. Gates also addresses inflammation and the causes it has on your body and early aging, as well as, the best anti-aging foods to keep around to help not only your appearance but also your energy levels!

As most know the older we get, the less energy we have, but a lot of this depends on what foods you eat and what your diet consists of. This book is all about sticking with the lifestyle you already live, just with a few tweaks to it, cutting out some bad foods, adding in some good, and catching the right amount of hours of sleep. Find it on Amazon.com for $17.70.

Doctor William Davis, author of the upcoming book Wheat Belly: Lose the Weight, and Find your Path Back to Health is an outstanding cardiologist from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Davis’s new book is about the effects of eating wheat and carb’s and how they negatively impact your health.

Some may say Davis is a bit unconventional, as he has a different view on the heart health industry that he discusses in depth in his book. Davis believes the key to a healthy heart is very easy, cutting out carbohydrates and wheat from your diet. He thinks the whole fuss around heart health is a scam of the medical industry. This idea isn’t too far out there, cardiac care reportedly is worth almost sixty billion dollars, and as a cardiac doctor himself, Davis believed he was completely on top of the new medicines and treatments when his mother died from a heart attack. This began his journey to finding a cure for keeping cholesterol down and arteries unclogged.

This book gives the reader all the correct information on the harm wheat has on our body as well as nutritional tips and recommendations for staying healthy and happy.

This book is available on August 30th, but you can pre-order on Amazon.com.

One of the fastest growing trends in the fitness world, spinning, has become a cult of sorts. Fitness enthusiasts and loyal cyclists have moved indoors to stationary bikes for their newest endorphin fix. But there was something missing...there are numerous ways for you to break a sweat and physically work your body, but what about the mental aspect?

Owners and founders, Elizabeth Cutler and Julie Rice, faced this same predicament when both relocated to Manhattan. After tireless hours of searching for a suitable activity, they realized they would have to create it. There, SoulCycle was born. “They believed indoor cycling could be inspiring; they both believed that you could incorporate and upper body and core work out during the routine, and finally they believed that with some great branding, a beautiful environment, and outstanding customer service, the 45-minute class could be transformed into a special experience each time.”

Parenting is a word dreaded and anticipated by so many expecting parents around the world for many reasons. As new parents take the steps towards parenting, many know the troubles that will be faced as they continue along the parenting path. Crying, sickness, teething, so many difficulties parents face and assume they just have to trek through it. According to a new book by Peter Walker, Developmental Baby Massage: Therapeutic Touch Techniques for Making your Baby Stronger, Healthier, and Happier, Walker has found a way to eliminate many of these tribulations all parents go through, even sleeplessness!

Developmental Baby Massage also comes with step-by-step photographs to ensure the reader performs the massages correctly.Walker goes into detail of every massage and the great affects it will have on the baby now and in the future. My guess is that if your baby is benefiting, you will be too.

Parenting is a word dreaded and anticipated by so many expecting parents around the world for many reasons. As new parents take the steps towards parenting, many know the troubles that will be faced as they continue along the parenting path. Crying, sickness, teething, so many difficulties parents face and assume they just have to trek through it. According to a new book by Peter Walker, Developmental Baby Massage: Therapeutic Touch Techniques for Making your Baby Stronger, Healthier, and Happier, Walker has found a way to eliminate many of these tribulations all parents go through, even sleeplessness!

Developmental Baby Massage also comes with step-by-step photographs to ensure the reader performs the massages correctly.Walker goes into detail of every massage and the great affects it will have on the baby now and in the future. My guess is that if your baby is benefiting, you will be too.

TripAdvisor, the world’s largest travel site, today announced the results of its health and fitness on vacation survey of more than 1,000 U.S. travelers. Fifty-two percent of respondents always or often exercise on vacation, and 65 percent maintain that healthy eating is important to them on leisure trips. While the majority of travelers are exercising on leisure trips, this may help compensate for hefty vacation menus, as 34 percent frequently gain weight on leisure trips. Eighty-one percent confess they are more likely to overindulge on food on vacation than while at home, while 55 percent are more likely to overindulge on alcohol.

Vacation Workouts

• On a typical one week vacation, 30 percent of U.S. travelers exercise three to four times, 21 percent exercise once or twice and 12 percent exercise once a day.
• 18 percent exercise more on vacation than when at home, while 25 percent exercise about the same amount.
• Nearly one quarter of travelers (23 percent) say fitness facilities are frequently a consideration when choosing their vacation accommodations.

 

TripAdvisor, the world’s largest travel site, today announced the results of its health and fitness on vacation survey of more than 1,000 U.S. travelers. Fifty-two percent of respondents always or often exercise on vacation, and 65 percent maintain that healthy eating is important to them on leisure trips. While the majority of travelers are exercising on leisure trips, this may help compensate for hefty vacation menus, as 34 percent frequently gain weight on leisure trips. Eighty-one percent confess they are more likely to overindulge on food on vacation than while at home, while 55 percent are more likely to overindulge on alcohol.

Vacation Workouts

• On a typical one week vacation, 30 percent of U.S. travelers exercise three to four times, 21 percent exercise once or twice and 12 percent exercise once a day.
• 18 percent exercise more on vacation than when at home, while 25 percent exercise about the same amount.
• Nearly one quarter of travelers (23 percent) say fitness facilities are frequently a consideration when choosing their vacation accommodations.

 

TripAdvisor, the world’s largest travel site, today announced the results of its health and fitness on vacation survey of more than 1,000 U.S. travelers. Fifty-two percent of respondents always or often exercise on vacation, and 65 percent maintain that healthy eating is important to them on leisure trips. While the majority of travelers are exercising on leisure trips, this may help compensate for hefty vacation menus, as 34 percent frequently gain weight on leisure trips. Eighty-one percent confess they are more likely to overindulge on food on vacation than while at home, while 55 percent are more likely to overindulge on alcohol.

Vacation Workouts

• On a typical one week vacation, 30 percent of U.S. travelers exercise three to four times, 21 percent exercise once or twice and 12 percent exercise once a day.
• 18 percent exercise more on vacation than when at home, while 25 percent exercise about the same amount.
• Nearly one quarter of travelers (23 percent) say fitness facilities are frequently a consideration when choosing their vacation accommodations.

 

Your mouth is more than just teeth and gums, it's your most important feature when it comes to expressing yourself and engaging with the world.  To help celebrate how important a healthy mouth is to living life to the fullest, "The Biggest Loser" host and author of "The Mommy Diet," and "Days of our Lives" star Alison Sweeney is joining Crest and Oral-B to announce the launch of the "Life Opens Up Project," a program that encourages individuals to share their personal stories showcasing how their healthy mouths have played a pivotal role in shaping who they are today.

Sweeney, who knows the importance of a healthy, confident smile said, "I'm so thrilled to be teaming up with Crest and Oral-B on such an empowering program.  In my personal life, the health of my mouth plays an essential role not only in my on-screen profession, but also in how I interact with individuals as a wife, mother and friend.   Your mouth is usually the first thing people notice about you, and when you have a healthy mouth that you can be proud of, that confidence shines through to the world."

Jane Fonda: creator of the infamous aeorbic exercise, The Jane Fonda Workout, and Oscar-winning actress, now has another title to add to her list of accomplishments: published author. Jane Fonda’s new book Prime Time is about living well and making the most of life into your 50’s and 60’s. Fonda covers all of the important aspects of living well; Love; Health; Sex; Fitness; Friendship; Spirit, and this is just a summary.

Fonda wants us to take a step back and try to look at life a little differently, especially as we mature and become the people we were always meant to be, Fonda asks us to look at our life and see if we are truly know ourselves. She provides many compelling life stories of her own experiences and those of others to give guidance and hope.

Simple and profound, this revolutionary fitness idea has become a YouTube sensation and a world wide phenomenon. So what exactly is Laughing Yoga? And how could it possibly be taken seriously? Simple, the new fitness craze combines Unconditional Laughter with Yogic Breathing (Pranayama). The concept behind it is that the body cannot differentiate between fake and real laughter, allowing you to achieve the same physiological and psychological benefits.

Laughter Yoga has been scientifically proven to lower the levels of stress hormones (epinephrine, cortisol, etc.) in your blood, leading you to a more positive and hopeful attitude. Have you ever laughed so hard your abs hurt? You engage your core when you laugh, providing you with physical benefits as well.

Hamburg is a city built around water. The Inner Alster lake is such a popular spot for people to relax beside (or walk, cycle and run around to work up a fetching glow) that it's known as 'the living room of Hamburg.' So why not the bathroom, too? For 10 days, Die Badende will be luxuriating in what we'd bet is the world's biggest tub.

It was Hamburg's special relationship with water that inspired creative Oliver Voss to create Die Badende: "Die Badende will become a landmark of the city for the short time she's with us," says Voss. "Hamburg and the water belong together. People live by, and off, the water. My team and I wanted to demonstrate this relationship in a fun and entertaining way. We also hope she will encourage more people to rediscover and experience our city by the water – after all, if the Inner Alster is the living room of Hamburg, of course someone should make themselves comfortable in it!"

Oliver Voss is a well-known name in Hamburg's cultural scene, having created art projects for Hamburg's Museum of Arts and Crafts and the TV show Kunst, Kultur & Kuchen (Art, Culture and Cake). He runs his own advertising agency, is president of the Miami Ad School Hamburg, and was CEO of the advertising agency Jung von Matt.

Soap & Glory founder Marcia Kilgore was thrilled by the concept as soon as she saw it. (So enthusiastic in fact, that on the rare occasions she's been able to enjoy a soak in the bath, she's been doing so in full makeup and a Marilyn wig to, you know, 'channel.') "We launched Soap & Glory in Germany last year, and we've been looking for a way to say, 'Thank you!' to everyone for embracing our products, and making us a real success there. At Soap & Glory, we consider it our calling to bring more beauty to the world, and have fun doing it - Die Badende does exactly that (all, of course, in our signature demure, subtle and understated way)."

Special efforts have been made (besides the crane standing by with an enormous towel) to ensure Die Badende won't leave anything behind when she makes her graceful exit from the water. Fully recyclable and made from waterproof, non-polluting materials, she's guaranteed to leave the Inner Alster as pristine as it was when she entered, ready for everyone to enjoy.

Hamburg is a city built around water. The Inner Alster lake is such a popular spot for people to relax beside (or walk, cycle and run around to work up a fetching glow) that it's known as 'the living room of Hamburg.' So why not the bathroom, too? For 10 days, Die Badende will be luxuriating in what we'd bet is the world's biggest tub.

It was Hamburg's special relationship with water that inspired creative Oliver Voss to create Die Badende: "Die Badende will become a landmark of the city for the short time she's with us," says Voss. "Hamburg and the water belong together. People live by, and off, the water. My team and I wanted to demonstrate this relationship in a fun and entertaining way. We also hope she will encourage more people to rediscover and experience our city by the water – after all, if the Inner Alster is the living room of Hamburg, of course someone should make themselves comfortable in it!"

Oliver Voss is a well-known name in Hamburg's cultural scene, having created art projects for Hamburg's Museum of Arts and Crafts and the TV show Kunst, Kultur & Kuchen (Art, Culture and Cake). He runs his own advertising agency, is president of the Miami Ad School Hamburg, and was CEO of the advertising agency Jung von Matt.

Soap & Glory founder Marcia Kilgore was thrilled by the concept as soon as she saw it. (So enthusiastic in fact, that on the rare occasions she's been able to enjoy a soak in the bath, she's been doing so in full makeup and a Marilyn wig to, you know, 'channel.') "We launched Soap & Glory in Germany last year, and we've been looking for a way to say, 'Thank you!' to everyone for embracing our products, and making us a real success there. At Soap & Glory, we consider it our calling to bring more beauty to the world, and have fun doing it - Die Badende does exactly that (all, of course, in our signature demure, subtle and understated way)."

Special efforts have been made (besides the crane standing by with an enormous towel) to ensure Die Badende won't leave anything behind when she makes her graceful exit from the water. Fully recyclable and made from waterproof, non-polluting materials, she's guaranteed to leave the Inner Alster as pristine as it was when she entered, ready for everyone to enjoy.

Hamburg is a city built around water. The Inner Alster lake is such a popular spot for people to relax beside (or walk, cycle and run around to work up a fetching glow) that it's known as 'the living room of Hamburg.' So why not the bathroom, too? For 10 days, Die Badende will be luxuriating in what we'd bet is the world's biggest tub.

It was Hamburg's special relationship with water that inspired creative Oliver Voss to create Die Badende: "Die Badende will become a landmark of the city for the short time she's with us," says Voss. "Hamburg and the water belong together. People live by, and off, the water. My team and I wanted to demonstrate this relationship in a fun and entertaining way. We also hope she will encourage more people to rediscover and experience our city by the water – after all, if the Inner Alster is the living room of Hamburg, of course someone should make themselves comfortable in it!"

Oliver Voss is a well-known name in Hamburg's cultural scene, having created art projects for Hamburg's Museum of Arts and Crafts and the TV show Kunst, Kultur & Kuchen (Art, Culture and Cake). He runs his own advertising agency, is president of the Miami Ad School Hamburg, and was CEO of the advertising agency Jung von Matt.

Soap & Glory founder Marcia Kilgore was thrilled by the concept as soon as she saw it. (So enthusiastic in fact, that on the rare occasions she's been able to enjoy a soak in the bath, she's been doing so in full makeup and a Marilyn wig to, you know, 'channel.') "We launched Soap & Glory in Germany last year, and we've been looking for a way to say, 'Thank you!' to everyone for embracing our products, and making us a real success there. At Soap & Glory, we consider it our calling to bring more beauty to the world, and have fun doing it - Die Badende does exactly that (all, of course, in our signature demure, subtle and understated way)."

Special efforts have been made (besides the crane standing by with an enormous towel) to ensure Die Badende won't leave anything behind when she makes her graceful exit from the water. Fully recyclable and made from waterproof, non-polluting materials, she's guaranteed to leave the Inner Alster as pristine as it was when she entered, ready for everyone to enjoy.

Hamburg is a city built around water. The Inner Alster lake is such a popular spot for people to relax beside (or walk, cycle and run around to work up a fetching glow) that it's known as 'the living room of Hamburg.' So why not the bathroom, too? For 10 days, Die Badende will be luxuriating in what we'd bet is the world's biggest tub.

It was Hamburg's special relationship with water that inspired creative Oliver Voss to create Die Badende: "Die Badende will become a landmark of the city for the short time she's with us," says Voss. "Hamburg and the water belong together. People live by, and off, the water. My team and I wanted to demonstrate this relationship in a fun and entertaining way. We also hope she will encourage more people to rediscover and experience our city by the water – after all, if the Inner Alster is the living room of Hamburg, of course someone should make themselves comfortable in it!"

Oliver Voss is a well-known name in Hamburg's cultural scene, having created art projects for Hamburg's Museum of Arts and Crafts and the TV show Kunst, Kultur & Kuchen (Art, Culture and Cake). He runs his own advertising agency, is president of the Miami Ad School Hamburg, and was CEO of the advertising agency Jung von Matt.

Soap & Glory founder Marcia Kilgore was thrilled by the concept as soon as she saw it. (So enthusiastic in fact, that on the rare occasions she's been able to enjoy a soak in the bath, she's been doing so in full makeup and a Marilyn wig to, you know, 'channel.') "We launched Soap & Glory in Germany last year, and we've been looking for a way to say, 'Thank you!' to everyone for embracing our products, and making us a real success there. At Soap & Glory, we consider it our calling to bring more beauty to the world, and have fun doing it - Die Badende does exactly that (all, of course, in our signature demure, subtle and understated way)."

Special efforts have been made (besides the crane standing by with an enormous towel) to ensure Die Badende won't leave anything behind when she makes her graceful exit from the water. Fully recyclable and made from waterproof, non-polluting materials, she's guaranteed to leave the Inner Alster as pristine as it was when she entered, ready for everyone to enjoy.

The National Foundation for Celiac Awareness, the leading organization in raising awareness for celiac disease and gluten intolerance, reports that 1 in 133 Americans has celiac disease. In those who suffer from this disease, gluten causes the immune system to damage the small intestine thereby impeding the absorption of essential food nutrients into the body.

At this time, the only remedy for celiac disease is to adhere to a 100% gluten-free diet. Many who live with the disease take the added precaution of maintaining a gluten-free home. Increased awareness and diagnosis has resulted in a significantly increased demand for gluten-free products, and the gluten-free marketplace is experiencing tremendous growth with global sales expected to reach more than $4.3 billion within the next five years. By 2014, the U.S. market is expected to grow by more than $500 million, comprising 53% of the global market.

The National Foundation for Celiac Awareness, the leading organization in raising awareness for celiac disease and gluten intolerance, reports that 1 in 133 Americans has celiac disease. In those who suffer from this disease, gluten causes the immune system to damage the small intestine thereby impeding the absorption of essential food nutrients into the body.

At this time, the only remedy for celiac disease is to adhere to a 100% gluten-free diet. Many who live with the disease take the added precaution of maintaining a gluten-free home. Increased awareness and diagnosis has resulted in a significantly increased demand for gluten-free products, and the gluten-free marketplace is experiencing tremendous growth with global sales expected to reach more than $4.3 billion within the next five years. By 2014, the U.S. market is expected to grow by more than $500 million, comprising 53% of the global market.

The National Foundation for Celiac Awareness, the leading organization in raising awareness for celiac disease and gluten intolerance, reports that 1 in 133 Americans has celiac disease. In those who suffer from this disease, gluten causes the immune system to damage the small intestine thereby impeding the absorption of essential food nutrients into the body.

At this time, the only remedy for celiac disease is to adhere to a 100% gluten-free diet. Many who live with the disease take the added precaution of maintaining a gluten-free home. Increased awareness and diagnosis has resulted in a significantly increased demand for gluten-free products, and the gluten-free marketplace is experiencing tremendous growth with global sales expected to reach more than $4.3 billion within the next five years. By 2014, the U.S. market is expected to grow by more than $500 million, comprising 53% of the global market.

The National Foundation for Celiac Awareness, the leading organization in raising awareness for celiac disease and gluten intolerance, reports that 1 in 133 Americans has celiac disease. In those who suffer from this disease, gluten causes the immune system to damage the small intestine thereby impeding the absorption of essential food nutrients into the body.

At this time, the only remedy for celiac disease is to adhere to a 100% gluten-free diet. Many who live with the disease take the added precaution of maintaining a gluten-free home. Increased awareness and diagnosis has resulted in a significantly increased demand for gluten-free products, and the gluten-free marketplace is experiencing tremendous growth with global sales expected to reach more than $4.3 billion within the next five years. By 2014, the U.S. market is expected to grow by more than $500 million, comprising 53% of the global market.

The National Foundation for Celiac Awareness, the leading organization in raising awareness for celiac disease and gluten intolerance, reports that 1 in 133 Americans has celiac disease. In those who suffer from this disease, gluten causes the immune system to damage the small intestine thereby impeding the absorption of essential food nutrients into the body.

At this time, the only remedy for celiac disease is to adhere to a 100% gluten-free diet. Many who live with the disease take the added precaution of maintaining a gluten-free home. Increased awareness and diagnosis has resulted in a significantly increased demand for gluten-free products, and the gluten-free marketplace is experiencing tremendous growth with global sales expected to reach more than $4.3 billion within the next five years. By 2014, the U.S. market is expected to grow by more than $500 million, comprising 53% of the global market.

The National Foundation for Celiac Awareness, the leading organization in raising awareness for celiac disease and gluten intolerance, reports that 1 in 133 Americans has celiac disease. In those who suffer from this disease, gluten causes the immune system to damage the small intestine thereby impeding the absorption of essential food nutrients into the body.

At this time, the only remedy for celiac disease is to adhere to a 100% gluten-free diet. Many who live with the disease take the added precaution of maintaining a gluten-free home. Increased awareness and diagnosis has resulted in a significantly increased demand for gluten-free products, and the gluten-free marketplace is experiencing tremendous growth with global sales expected to reach more than $4.3 billion within the next five years. By 2014, the U.S. market is expected to grow by more than $500 million, comprising 53% of the global market.

The National Foundation for Celiac Awareness, the leading organization in raising awareness for celiac disease and gluten intolerance, reports that 1 in 133 Americans has celiac disease. In those who suffer from this disease, gluten causes the immune system to damage the small intestine thereby impeding the absorption of essential food nutrients into the body.

At this time, the only remedy for celiac disease is to adhere to a 100% gluten-free diet. Many who live with the disease take the added precaution of maintaining a gluten-free home. Increased awareness and diagnosis has resulted in a significantly increased demand for gluten-free products, and the gluten-free marketplace is experiencing tremendous growth with global sales expected to reach more than $4.3 billion within the next five years. By 2014, the U.S. market is expected to grow by more than $500 million, comprising 53% of the global market.

When many of us think of vacation spots we immediately envision an all-inclusive resort, room with an ocean view and a soft-sanded beach a few steps away. Well, how about breath-taking Italy and just a few steps away from the Mediterranean Sea? For most of us the main appeal of a vacation is the sense of relaxation it brings. How about an entire resort dedicated to just that, your relaxation? In combining relaxation with the luxurious hotel aspect, Bagni di Pisa Spa Resort has created a harmonic environment to fit your desired needs and aspirations. 

The spa resort is located in Tuscany, Italy, offering six different types of rooms from comfort, to deluxe, to their prestigious suite, which includes a panoramic view of the Tower of Pisa! Included with your stay you are encouraged to use the thermal pools with hydromassages, Swedish saunas, Turkish baths, and their fitness centre. The Bagni di Pisa Resort also encourages you to bring your pets and offers an on-request dog-sitting service! Now, you don't need to stress over finding someone to look after your beloved pet.

The majority of standard hotels offer a few spa treatments, such as facials, or a massage. The Bagni di Pisa resort offers an extensive spa menu, including several different kinds of massages, numerous baths and wraps, and much more! Included in their wellness menu are health and wellness treatments focused around losing weight! The resort also goes by the title of a Medical Thermal Spa, which indicates their specialization in treatments for those that are overweight or obese. What better way to get back on a healthy track than to do so in the luxurious Tuscany, Italy?

In order to help those that are on the wellness plan the on-site restaurants and food available offer a wide range of tastes, including delicious low-calorie menus, vegetarian menus, and cultural specific menus.

Not only do they provide their fitness center but also many activities are presented, like hiking, mountain biking to different villiages, art tours, horseback riding, and more! Near-by airports offer parachuting and hand gliding sports to participate in! Being surrounded by such enriching culture and natural characteristics, like the Mediterranean Sea, is bound to make your vacation experience an enjoyable and memorable one.

Right now they have September promotions going on! Check them out and let us know what you think by tweeting us @PierceMattiePR!

When many of us think of vacation spots we immediately envision an all-inclusive resort, room with an ocean view and a soft-sanded beach a few steps away. Well, how about breath-taking Italy and just a few steps away from the Mediterranean Sea? For most of us the main appeal of a vacation is the sense of relaxation it brings. How about an entire resort dedicated to just that, your relaxation? In combining relaxation with the luxurious hotel aspect, Bagni di Pisa Spa Resort has created a harmonic environment to fit your desired needs and aspirations. 

The spa resort is located in Tuscany, Italy, offering six different types of rooms from comfort, to deluxe, to their prestigious suite, which includes a panoramic view of the Tower of Pisa! Included with your stay you are encouraged to use the thermal pools with hydromassages, Swedish saunas, Turkish baths, and their fitness centre. The Bagni di Pisa Resort also encourages you to bring your pets and offers an on-request dog-sitting service! Now, you don't need to stress over finding someone to look after your beloved pet.

The majority of standard hotels offer a few spa treatments, such as facials, or a massage. The Bagni di Pisa resort offers an extensive spa menu, including several different kinds of massages, numerous baths and wraps, and much more! Included in their wellness menu are health and wellness treatments focused around losing weight! The resort also goes by the title of a Medical Thermal Spa, which indicates their specialization in treatments for those that are overweight or obese. What better way to get back on a healthy track than to do so in the luxurious Tuscany, Italy?

In order to help those that are on the wellness plan the on-site restaurants and food available offer a wide range of tastes, including delicious low-calorie menus, vegetarian menus, and cultural specific menus.

Not only do they provide their fitness center but also many activities are presented, like hiking, mountain biking to different villiages, art tours, horseback riding, and more! Near-by airports offer parachuting and hand gliding sports to participate in! Being surrounded by such enriching culture and natural characteristics, like the Mediterranean Sea, is bound to make your vacation experience an enjoyable and memorable one.

Right now they have September promotions going on! Check them out and let us know what you think by tweeting us @PierceMattiePR!

When many of us think of vacation spots we immediately envision an all-inclusive resort, room with an ocean view and a soft-sanded beach a few steps away. Well, how about breath-taking Italy and just a few steps away from the Mediterranean Sea? For most of us the main appeal of a vacation is the sense of relaxation it brings. How about an entire resort dedicated to just that, your relaxation? In combining relaxation with the luxurious hotel aspect, Bagni di Pisa Spa Resort has created a harmonic environment to fit your desired needs and aspirations. 

The spa resort is located in Tuscany, Italy, offering six different types of rooms from comfort, to deluxe, to their prestigious suite, which includes a panoramic view of the Tower of Pisa! Included with your stay you are encouraged to use the thermal pools with hydromassages, Swedish saunas, Turkish baths, and their fitness centre. The Bagni di Pisa Resort also encourages you to bring your pets and offers an on-request dog-sitting service! Now, you don't need to stress over finding someone to look after your beloved pet.

The majority of standard hotels offer a few spa treatments, such as facials, or a massage. The Bagni di Pisa resort offers an extensive spa menu, including several different kinds of massages, numerous baths and wraps, and much more! Included in their wellness menu are health and wellness treatments focused around losing weight! The resort also goes by the title of a Medical Thermal Spa, which indicates their specialization in treatments for those that are overweight or obese. What better way to get back on a healthy track than to do so in the luxurious Tuscany, Italy?

In order to help those that are on the wellness plan the on-site restaurants and food available offer a wide range of tastes, including delicious low-calorie menus, vegetarian menus, and cultural specific menus.

Not only do they provide their fitness center but also many activities are presented, like hiking, mountain biking to different villiages, art tours, horseback riding, and more! Near-by airports offer parachuting and hand gliding sports to participate in! Being surrounded by such enriching culture and natural characteristics, like the Mediterranean Sea, is bound to make your vacation experience an enjoyable and memorable one.

Right now they have September promotions going on! Check them out and let us know what you think by tweeting us @PierceMattiePR!

In Silicon Valley, consumer innovation extends beyond social media to healthcare, as led by the world's most advanced consumer directed wellness platform, WellnessFX. Today, at Health 2.0 Conference in San Francisco, WellnessFX will launch its beta product to give California residents a chance to lead the consumer healthcare revolution into the digital 21st century.

Founded in San Francisco, WellnessFX is a consumer directed personalized wellness and health startup that allows individuals to measure, understand and improve their health by combining state-of-the-art medical science with social media tools and consumer web UX. With the launch of its beta, WellnessFX gives passionate health consumers the chance to experience the melding of state-of-art care, information, and access to engage in their own health and wellness management.

In Silicon Valley, consumer innovation extends beyond social media to healthcare, as led by the world's most advanced consumer directed wellness platform, WellnessFX. Today, at Health 2.0 Conference in San Francisco, WellnessFX will launch its beta product to give California residents a chance to lead the consumer healthcare revolution into the digital 21st century.

Founded in San Francisco, WellnessFX is a consumer directed personalized wellness and health startup that allows individuals to measure, understand and improve their health by combining state-of-the-art medical science with social media tools and consumer web UX. With the launch of its beta, WellnessFX gives passionate health consumers the chance to experience the melding of state-of-art care, information, and access to engage in their own health and wellness management.

Making headlines across the country, the battle over bottled water has once again been ignited. According to a recent article in USA Today, "an average American consumed 28.3 gallons of bottled water last year;" and while recycling plastics has become easier and more efficient over time, the environmental impact is still staggering. In an effort to alleviate and eventually eliminate the waste that results from manufacturing and disposing of plastic water bottles, bottled water bans have sparked within communities, student bodies and municipalities, encouraging people to recommit to tap water and once again look to the public water cooler for a cool, refreshing drink.

Making headlines across the country, the battle over bottled water has once again been ignited. According to a recent article in USA Today, "an average American consumed 28.3 gallons of bottled water last year;" and while recycling plastics has become easier and more efficient over time, the environmental impact is still staggering. In an effort to alleviate and eventually eliminate the waste that results from manufacturing and disposing of plastic water bottles, bottled water bans have sparked within communities, student bodies and municipalities, encouraging people to recommit to tap water and once again look to the public water cooler for a cool, refreshing drink.

The TV series The Doctors is becoming more and more popular since its original airdate in 2008. The show mainly focuses on medical and health issues, as well as providing discussions based on questions presented by various audience members. An emergency room physician hosts the 60-minute series, along with another trained physician, a pediatrician, obstetrician, and plastic surgeon. Another interesting aspect of the show that many viewers are unaware of, is that Phil McGraw, the host of Dr. Phil, created the hit show.

For their fourth season they have added on a new co-host whom we all admire - Jillian Michaels. Jillian Michaels is largely well known, particularly for her nutrition, weight-loss and coaching expertise. She became even more inspiring through training and coaching on the TV show, The Biggest Loser.

Not only has Michaels achieved these inspirational TV roles, but she has mounds of other accomplishments, such as; holding a black belt in martial arts, 2 personal trainer certificates from the leading certification programs in the United States - the National Exercise & Sports Trainers Association (NESTA) and the American Fitness Association of America (AFAA), holds a nutrition and wellness consultant certificate with the American Fitness Professionals Associates (AFPA). Michaels has also written four bestselling books, such as; Making the Cut, Unlimited: How to Build and Exceptional Life, and more. In addition to her popular books, she has created countless workout and weight-loss DVDs that are listed as best sellers, like Ripped in 30, and Yoga Meltdown. She even has 3 video games the Wii system to help you with your fitness level!

Michaels is also actively involved in many charities by holding the position of the ambassador for the American Cancer Society, the ambassador for Stand Up 2 Cancer, and works on various programs to help stop childhood obesity.

Check out their local listings on their website to find out when you can watch!

Will you be tuning in to watch this season ofThe Doctors? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR!

As the fall begins to set in and a chill grows in the air, September marks the perfect month to spend some more time indoors. With September designated as "Pleasure Your Mate Month," couples are encouraged to increase their time in the bedroom.

Astroglide sexual Health and Wellness Ambassador, Dr. Yvonne K. Fulbright PhD, offers some tips on pleasuring your partner:

• An important step before any foreplay is to remove stress from your partner's everyday life. Clear off household chores or other mundane tasks in order to remove them from your partner's mind!
• Pay attention to the little details! If your partner casually mentions liking a new band, then surprise them with concert tickets! Thoughtfulness will be reciprocated in the boudoir!
• Talk to your partner about new sexual positions to reach new heights of fun. Ever tried the "butterfly" position?
• Men and women both enjoy quality foreplay! Draw a nice warm bath for two early in the date to set the mood for evening romps.
• A delicious gourmet meal pleases many of the senses, just like good sex!
• Renew your enthusiasm for oral sex so you can truly focus on your partner's pleasure.
• Sex in new places can be incredibly exciting. Relive your younger days with a romp on the sofa or perhaps a backyard camp out (privacy permitting of course!)

As the fall begins to set in and a chill grows in the air, September marks the perfect month to spend some more time indoors. With September designated as "Pleasure Your Mate Month," couples are encouraged to increase their time in the bedroom.

Astroglide sexual Health and Wellness Ambassador, Dr. Yvonne K. Fulbright PhD, offers some tips on pleasuring your partner:

• An important step before any foreplay is to remove stress from your partner's everyday life. Clear off household chores or other mundane tasks in order to remove them from your partner's mind!
• Pay attention to the little details! If your partner casually mentions liking a new band, then surprise them with concert tickets! Thoughtfulness will be reciprocated in the boudoir!
• Talk to your partner about new sexual positions to reach new heights of fun. Ever tried the "butterfly" position?
• Men and women both enjoy quality foreplay! Draw a nice warm bath for two early in the date to set the mood for evening romps.
• A delicious gourmet meal pleases many of the senses, just like good sex!
• Renew your enthusiasm for oral sex so you can truly focus on your partner's pleasure.
• Sex in new places can be incredibly exciting. Relive your younger days with a romp on the sofa or perhaps a backyard camp out (privacy permitting of course!)

Nylon Magazine features Pierce Mattie PR client 21 Drops. If you’re working on a wellness story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie lifestyle PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

Nylon Magazine features Pierce Mattie PR client 21 Drops. If you’re working on a wellness story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie lifestyle PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

Nylon Magazine features Pierce Mattie PR client 21 Drops. If you’re working on a wellness story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie lifestyle PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

Cooking Light Magazine features Pierce Mattie PR client John Masters Organics. If you’re working on a natural wellness story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie beauty PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

Cooking Light Magazine features Pierce Mattie PR client John Masters Organics. If you’re working on a natural wellness story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie beauty PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

When most people stay at a hotel they are there to experience a sense of lavishness and leisure - what better way to achieve this glamorized comfort than to experience one of the exclusive spa packages in one of Las Vegas’ top 10 hotels - MGM Grand. Las Vegas is best known for its vibrant nightlife and often, chaotic party district - if you are visiting and need a quick escape to a quiet and relaxing retreat, MGM Grand Hotel offers a quaint spa and health oasis in the desert.

They offer various packages, including mother-to-be and bride-to-be packages! They not only offer their sensational spa services to hotel guests, but also to non-residents.

Their spa selections are extensive from beautifying facials, body and skin treatments, to therapeutic massages - individual and couple massages are both available. As a spa guest you are given a comfort robe with soft slippers to wear during your stay at the club, adding a sense of luxury and comfort. There are many spa facilities to enjoy during your stay as well such as, saunas and steam rooms. If you want to disappear from the energetic party scene, but don’t want to adapt to the spa getaway than MGM Grand also offers a gym and exercise experience. You can acquire a gym pass, which allows you access to their various cardio and weight training machines.

Have you had the pleasure of experiencing a spa package at MGM? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR!

When most people stay at a hotel they are there to experience a sense of lavishness and leisure - what better way to achieve this glamorized comfort than to experience one of the exclusive spa packages in one of Las Vegas’ top 10 hotels - MGM Grand. Las Vegas is best known for its vibrant nightlife and often, chaotic party district - if you are visiting and need a quick escape to a quiet and relaxing retreat, MGM Grand Hotel offers a quaint spa and health oasis in the desert.

They offer various packages, including mother-to-be and bride-to-be packages! They not only offer their sensational spa services to hotel guests, but also to non-residents.

Their spa selections are extensive from beautifying facials, body and skin treatments, to therapeutic massages - individual and couple massages are both available. As a spa guest you are given a comfort robe with soft slippers to wear during your stay at the club, adding a sense of luxury and comfort. There are many spa facilities to enjoy during your stay as well such as, saunas and steam rooms. If you want to disappear from the energetic party scene, but don’t want to adapt to the spa getaway than MGM Grand also offers a gym and exercise experience. You can acquire a gym pass, which allows you access to their various cardio and weight training machines.

Have you had the pleasure of experiencing a spa package at MGM? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR!

When most people stay at a hotel they are there to experience a sense of lavishness and leisure - what better way to achieve this glamorized comfort than to experience one of the exclusive spa packages in one of Las Vegas’ top 10 hotels - MGM Grand. Las Vegas is best known for its vibrant nightlife and often, chaotic party district - if you are visiting and need a quick escape to a quiet and relaxing retreat, MGM Grand Hotel offers a quaint spa and health oasis in the desert.

They offer various packages, including mother-to-be and bride-to-be packages! They not only offer their sensational spa services to hotel guests, but also to non-residents.

Their spa selections are extensive from beautifying facials, body and skin treatments, to therapeutic massages - individual and couple massages are both available. As a spa guest you are given a comfort robe with soft slippers to wear during your stay at the club, adding a sense of luxury and comfort. There are many spa facilities to enjoy during your stay as well such as, saunas and steam rooms. If you want to disappear from the energetic party scene, but don’t want to adapt to the spa getaway than MGM Grand also offers a gym and exercise experience. You can acquire a gym pass, which allows you access to their various cardio and weight training machines.

Have you had the pleasure of experiencing a spa package at MGM? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR!

When most people stay at a hotel they are there to experience a sense of lavishness and leisure - what better way to achieve this glamorized comfort than to experience one of the exclusive spa packages in one of Las Vegas’ top 10 hotels - MGM Grand. Las Vegas is best known for its vibrant nightlife and often, chaotic party district - if you are visiting and need a quick escape to a quiet and relaxing retreat, MGM Grand Hotel offers a quaint spa and health oasis in the desert.

They offer various packages, including mother-to-be and bride-to-be packages! They not only offer their sensational spa services to hotel guests, but also to non-residents.

Their spa selections are extensive from beautifying facials, body and skin treatments, to therapeutic massages - individual and couple massages are both available. As a spa guest you are given a comfort robe with soft slippers to wear during your stay at the club, adding a sense of luxury and comfort. There are many spa facilities to enjoy during your stay as well such as, saunas and steam rooms. If you want to disappear from the energetic party scene, but don’t want to adapt to the spa getaway than MGM Grand also offers a gym and exercise experience. You can acquire a gym pass, which allows you access to their various cardio and weight training machines.

Have you had the pleasure of experiencing a spa package at MGM? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR!

More than 25 million American children and adults have been diagnosed with diabetes, and this number is expected to double or triple by 2050 unless major actions are taken. November has been deemed American Diabetes Month in order to create awareness and identify prevention techniques for men, women, and children.  The heart of the movement lies within a healthy diet, increasing levels of physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight.

Caroline and Robert Miros created the PlanetBox lunchbox years ago as a tool for healthy-eating practices. The PlanetBox's individual compartments help serve as a guide for packing well-balanced meals. Customers love the durability and intuitive design of the stainless steel lunch box, which helps to pack healthier items quickly and easily. The PlanetBox offers adult lunch-packers the opportunity to share creative, quality meal ideas.  Children are given the chance to find the fun in eating healthy. The result is less meals filled with sugary and wasteful prepackaged snacks.

More than 25 million American children and adults have been diagnosed with diabetes, and this number is expected to double or triple by 2050 unless major actions are taken. November has been deemed American Diabetes Month in order to create awareness and identify prevention techniques for men, women, and children.  The heart of the movement lies within a healthy diet, increasing levels of physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight.

Caroline and Robert Miros created the PlanetBox lunchbox years ago as a tool for healthy-eating practices. The PlanetBox's individual compartments help serve as a guide for packing well-balanced meals. Customers love the durability and intuitive design of the stainless steel lunch box, which helps to pack healthier items quickly and easily. The PlanetBox offers adult lunch-packers the opportunity to share creative, quality meal ideas.  Children are given the chance to find the fun in eating healthy. The result is less meals filled with sugary and wasteful prepackaged snacks.

The TV series The Doctors is becoming more and more popular since its original airdate in 2008. The show mainly focuses on medical and health issues, as well as providing discussions based on questions presented by various audience members. An emergency room physician hosts the 60-minute series, along with another trained physician, a pediatrician, obstetrician, and plastic surgeon. Another interesting aspect of the show that many viewers are unaware of, is that Phil McGraw, the host of Dr. Phil, created the hit show.

For their fourth season they have added on a new co-host whom we all admire - Jillian Michaels. Jillian Michaels is largely well known, particularly for her nutrition, weight-loss and coaching expertise. She became even more inspiring through training and coaching on the TV show, The Biggest Loser.

Not only has Michaels achieved these inspirational TV roles, but she has mounds of other accomplishments, such as; holding a black belt in martial arts, 2 personal trainer certificates from the leading certification programs in the United States - the National Exercise & Sports Trainers Association (NESTA) and the American Fitness Association of America (AFAA), holds a nutrition and wellness consultant certificate with the American Fitness Professionals Associates (AFPA). Michaels has also written four bestselling books, such as; Making the Cut, Unlimited: How to Build and Exceptional Life, and more. In addition to her popular books, she has created countless workout and weight-loss DVDs that are listed as best sellers, like Ripped in 30, and Yoga Meltdown. She even has 3 video games the Wii system to help you with your fitness level!

Michaels is also actively involved in many charities by holding the position of the ambassador for the American Cancer Society, the ambassador for Stand Up 2 Cancer, and works on various programs to help stop childhood obesity.

I believe adding Jillian Michaels to The Doctors will boost ratings and add a component to the show that will create even more inspiration among viewers. Although Michaels is the only co-host that is not a certified doctor, she has an abundance of knowledge to share with us and to help us lead happier and healthier lives!

Check out their local listings on their website to find out when you can watch!

Will you be tuning in to watch this season ofThe Doctors? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR!

The TV series The Doctors is becoming more and more popular since its original airdate in 2008. The show mainly focuses on medical and health issues, as well as providing discussions based on questions presented by various audience members. An emergency room physician hosts the 60-minute series, along with another trained physician, a pediatrician, obstetrician, and plastic surgeon. Another interesting aspect of the show that many viewers are unaware of, is that Phil McGraw, the host of Dr. Phil, created the hit show.

For their fourth season they have added on a new co-host whom we all admire - Jillian Michaels. Jillian Michaels is largely well known, particularly for her nutrition, weight-loss and coaching expertise. She became even more inspiring through training and coaching on the TV show, The Biggest Loser.

Not only has Michaels achieved these inspirational TV roles, but she has mounds of other accomplishments, such as; holding a black belt in martial arts, 2 personal trainer certificates from the leading certification programs in the United States - the National Exercise & Sports Trainers Association (NESTA) and the American Fitness Association of America (AFAA), holds a nutrition and wellness consultant certificate with the American Fitness Professionals Associates (AFPA). Michaels has also written four bestselling books, such as; Making the Cut, Unlimited: How to Build and Exceptional Life, and more. In addition to her popular books, she has created countless workout and weight-loss DVDs that are listed as best sellers, like Ripped in 30, and Yoga Meltdown. She even has 3 video games the Wii system to help you with your fitness level!

Michaels is also actively involved in many charities by holding the position of the ambassador for the American Cancer Society, the ambassador for Stand Up 2 Cancer, and works on various programs to help stop childhood obesity.

I believe adding Jillian Michaels to The Doctors will boost ratings and add a component to the show that will create even more inspiration among viewers. Although Michaels is the only co-host that is not a certified doctor, she has an abundance of knowledge to share with us and to help us lead happier and healthier lives!

Check out their local listings on their website to find out when you can watch!

Will you be tuning in to watch this season ofThe Doctors? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR!

If there is one New York City salon that fuses the perfect mix of luxury, aesthetic and talent, it is GARREN New York. Located on Fifth Avenue in The Sherry-Netherland Hotel near Central Park, the space is just as luxe as the clientel  GARREN New York services.

Garren has styled numerous models, celebrities and editors and his team of stylists and colorists can magically transform anyone from average to amazing. The salon is known to be consistently spotless and client focused. From the modern and intimate setting to the requirement that all the stylists and employees wear neutral clothing, it is clear that Garren has set the bar high with his attention to detail. 

Garren offers his own line of hair care products that covers all aspects of hair care, as well as numerous hair services like coloring, correcting, and styling, as well as manicures, pedicures and eyebrow shaping. They even offer services off the salon premises.

Have you experienced the luxury of being styled by Garren New York? Tweet us what you think @PierceMattiePR!

If there is one New York City salon that fuses the perfect mix of luxury, aesthetic and talent, it is GARREN New York. Located on Fifth Avenue in The Sherry-Netherland Hotel near Central Park, the space is just as luxe as the clientel  GARREN New York services.

Garren has styled numerous models, celebrities and editors and his team of stylists and colorists can magically transform anyone from average to amazing. The salon is known to be consistently spotless and client focused. From the modern and intimate setting to the requirement that all the stylists and employees wear neutral clothing, it is clear that Garren has set the bar high with his attention to detail. 

Garren offers his own line of hair care products that covers all aspects of hair care, as well as numerous hair services like coloring, correcting, and styling, as well as manicures, pedicures and eyebrow shaping. They even offer services off the salon premises.

Have you experienced the luxury of being styled by Garren New York? Tweet us what you think @PierceMattiePR!

Sally Hershberger:Sally Hershberger is a well-established hair stylist in which many A-List stars have had the pleasure of being of a client. In addition to being a celebrity stylist and working with high-end photographers to achieve the perfect style for a shoot, Hershberger has created her own hair care product line. Her line, entitled Sally Hershberger, has been a huge success largely due to her products offering professional quality results at a reasonable price. She has also opened up three luxurious salons, two located in New York and one in L.A. 

Sally has been featured on many TV talk shows and in fashion and beauty magazines, all of which applaud her on her remarkable work and success. To get a closer look at Hershberger’s technique take a peek at her hair tips videos, and follow her on Twitter @SHershberger for updates and ideas.

John Barrett: Celebrity hair stylist John Barrett is one of the most prominent stylists not only in the state of New York, but also among Hollywood celebrities. He is well known for styling celebs like Sarah Jessica Parker and Catherine Zeta Jones, before their big events and functions. Barrett’s salon, located in the penthouse at Bergdorfs, offers an extensive selection of treatments and styles. One of mine, and many other’s, favorite aspect is the Barrett Braid Bar where you can request any braid imaginable and walk out looking Oscar-worthy - Similar to the style worn by the adored Rachel McAdams. Braid bars are getting increasingly popular within luxury salons and represent a unique and exciting way to get your hair styled. Another fun aspect of Barrett’s salon is the offer of Beauty Parties where you and your group can enjoy the complete glamour of being pampered and the best part… champagne! To learn more about Barrett's salon be sure to become his follower on Twitter @JohnBarrettNYC, where you'll be updated on new clients, looks and styles.

Roy Teeluck: Roy Teeluck is an esteemed hairstylist who has travelled and styled in the fashion capitals of the world, Paris, L.A. London, and now, New York. Teeluck is admired for bringing glamour and ultimate beauty to his clients by not only styling their look, but guiding them on how to achieve a beautified look day-to-day. He has brought his worldwide knowledge and experience into his New York City salon which located in the heart of luxury next to Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent on East 57^th Street. Teeluck sculpts every client into the ultimate glamour-chic package, where he lets your natural and simple beauty shine through. The price to book a chair with Roy himself starts at $350, or you can transform your look with his other talented stylists who range from $120 - $200. To stay update on Teeluck's styles and salons, become a follower on Twitter @royteeluck.

Have you experienced any of these salons? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR and let us know what you think.

Sally Hershberger:Sally Hershberger is a well-established hair stylist in which many A-List stars have had the pleasure of being of a client. In addition to being a celebrity stylist and working with high-end photographers to achieve the perfect style for a shoot, Hershberger has created her own hair care product line. Her line, entitled Sally Hershberger, has been a huge success largely due to her products offering professional quality results at a reasonable price. She has also opened up three luxurious salons, two located in New York and one in L.A. 

Sally has been featured on many TV talk shows and in fashion and beauty magazines, all of which applaud her on her remarkable work and success. To get a closer look at Hershberger’s technique take a peek at her hair tips videos, and follow her on Twitter @SHershberger for updates and ideas.

John Barrett: Celebrity hair stylist John Barrett is one of the most prominent stylists not only in the state of New York, but also among Hollywood celebrities. He is well known for styling celebs like Sarah Jessica Parker and Catherine Zeta Jones, before their big events and functions. Barrett’s salon, located in the penthouse at Bergdorfs, offers an extensive selection of treatments and styles. One of mine, and many other’s, favorite aspect is the Barrett Braid Bar where you can request any braid imaginable and walk out looking Oscar-worthy - Similar to the style worn by the adored Rachel McAdams. Braid bars are getting increasingly popular within luxury salons and represent a unique and exciting way to get your hair styled. Another fun aspect of Barrett’s salon is the offer of Beauty Parties where you and your group can enjoy the complete glamour of being pampered and the best part… champagne! To learn more about Barrett's salon be sure to become his follower on Twitter @JohnBarrettNYC, where you'll be updated on new clients, looks and styles.

Roy Teeluck: Roy Teeluck is an esteemed hairstylist who has travelled and styled in the fashion capitals of the world, Paris, L.A. London, and now, New York. Teeluck is admired for bringing glamour and ultimate beauty to his clients by not only styling their look, but guiding them on how to achieve a beautified look day-to-day. He has brought his worldwide knowledge and experience into his New York City salon which located in the heart of luxury next to Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent on East 57^th Street. Teeluck sculpts every client into the ultimate glamour-chic package, where he lets your natural and simple beauty shine through. The price to book a chair with Roy himself starts at $350, or you can transform your look with his other talented stylists who range from $120 - $200. To stay update on Teeluck's styles and salons, become a follower on Twitter @royteeluck.

Have you experienced any of these salons? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR and let us know what you think.

WebMD Health Corp., the leading source of health information, today announced its 2011 WebMD Health Heroes award winners. WebMD's annual Health Heroes program presents awards to extraordinary Americans who raise awareness and promote solutions for better health and wellness.

"We are proud to honor four health heroes who are changing the health landscape for all of us," said Colleen Paretty, Executive Editor, WebMD the Magazine. "WebMD's sixth annual Health Heroes are men and women who can inspire all of us to do more to promote health and wellness in our own communities."

As I write this hunched over at my desk for the last 8 hours, my back screams in pain. So what more appropriate book to write about than The Yoga Back Book: The Natural Solution to Freedom from Pain by Stella Weller. The book covers yoga stretches, exercises and other relaxation techniques as a means to gently promote spinal health without drugs or surgery.

Yoga fanatics know that the poses and breathing help you to become more aware of your body's posture, alignment and patterns of movement. It also makes your body more flexible and helps you to relax even in the most stressful situations. 80% of people complain about back pain in one way or another, and learning some simple techniques without a pricey gym membership for Yoga classes, may be effective way to relieve some pain. 

Weller's book is available for pre-ordering for about $13 on Amazon. Have you used Yoga to help alleviate back pain? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

As I write this hunched over at my desk for the last 8 hours, my back screams in pain. So what more appropriate book to write about than The Yoga Back Book: The Natural Solution to Freedom from Pain by Stella Weller. The book covers yoga stretches, exercises and other relaxation techniques as a means to gently promote spinal health without drugs or surgery.

Yoga fanatics know that the poses and breathing help you to become more aware of your body's posture, alignment and patterns of movement. It also makes your body more flexible and helps you to relax even in the most stressful situations. 80% of people complain about back pain in one way or another, and learning some simple techniques without a pricey gym membership for Yoga classes, may be effective way to relieve some pain. 

Weller's book is available for pre-ordering for about $13 on Amazon. Have you used Yoga to help alleviate back pain? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

Pierce Mattie PR Client Comfort Zone's Monticelli Spa Mud featured in SpaFinder by NewBeauty Magazine. If you’re working on a wellness story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie spa PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

Pierce Mattie PR Client Comfort Zone's Monticelli Spa Mud featured in SpaFinder by NewBeauty Magazine. If you’re working on a wellness story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie spa PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

"W" Magazine's blog suggests Pierce Mattie PR's client Comfort Zone Hydramask for a glowing complexion. If you’re working on a winter skin care story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie beauty PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

"W" Magazine's blog suggests Pierce Mattie PR's client Comfort Zone Hydramask for a glowing complexion. If you’re working on a winter skin care story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie beauty PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

Although this time of year is exciting and cheerful, it can induce a lot of unwanted anxiety and stress. Bunya CitiSPA, located in New York on West Broadway, is a wonderful place for you to relieve your tension and just relax. Through a combination of cultural therapies and treatments they are bound to leave you feeling refreshed and energized.

Their spa menu consists of therapeutic massages, body treatments, massages and treatments for men, facials and nails & waxing - so if you are already miraculously stress-free this season, treat yourself to a well-deserved mani-pedi.

Bunya CitiSPA also has a “Mid-Winter Special” going on, with very attractive deals - my favourite being their ‘Rapid Four Hand Massage’ - just the sound of this makes you crave relaxation. Where two masseuses give you a full body massage for either 60 minutes for $140 USD or 90 minutes for $200 - How could you say no to that?

Another great winter special is their ‘Vitamin C Facial’ for $110, where you endure 70 heavenly minutes, of calming anti-aging and skin-softening treatments, and then a lavishing facial massage ­- which might just send you into a blissful nap….

Thoughtful Gift Alert: Who wouldn’t love a luxurious massage or defining treatment for the holidays? You can purchase a gift card to Bunya CitiSPA in any increment so your loved one can experience the true pleasure of relaxation.

Are you going to take advantage of their Winter Deals? Let us know what Bunya CitiSPA specials you chose by tweeting us @PierceMattiePR

From “amusement park” spas to cold treatments like “show showers” to the arrival of beauty coaches, SpaFinder today released its annual Spa Trend Report forecasting the global trends and ideas that will reshape spa and wellness in 2012.  Now in its ninth year, the influential annual report is based on analyses from SpaFinder Research and its team of experts who visit hundreds of spa and wellness businesses around the world every year, as well as interviews with leading industry analysts, and data and feedback collected from SpaFinder’s partnership with over 15,000 spas, yoga, Pilates and fitness studios, wellness practitioners and salons worldwide.  

The Spa Trend Report is developed under the direction of SpaFinder President Susie Ellis, a contributing editor to NewBeauty magazine, a founding board member of The Global Spa Summit, and author of the widely read industry blog Susie’s Spa Blog. Ellis is credited with forecasting numerous industry “mega-trends” that have taken hold in spas around the world.  “After four tough economic years that made experimentation challenging, we are seeing the industry once again pushing the envelope with exciting ideas, delivering more wows, more fun, and quite serious wellness innovation,” said Ellis.  

Ellis continued: “Overall, we see two distinct themes emerging. One is the industry innovating with diverse, new sensory experiences and treatments−from cold and “vibration” therapies to new services for healthy feet.  The second is how spas are re-imagining and extending their connection to customers, moving beyond the sporadic visit, to programs aimed at developing long-term relationships such as coaching and online gaming.”  

The top ten global spa trends for 2012 are:  

As health and fitness expert Jillian Michaels says, “you can eat your way through any workout.” Who wants to put in all the effort and strength and not see results because you’re pairing your exercise with an unhealthy diet? CLAY is a fitness and health club, located on West 14^th Street, designed to help and guide you through all these steps by combining personal training, various fitness classes and spa treatments and best of all, nutrition guidance. Which is perfect, because now there is really no excuse to tell yourself, they are providing all the help you need to lead a healthy, active lifestyle.

CLAY offers different nutrition guidance sessions, my favourite being the “Market Tour” and “Kitchen Renewal.” So you can feel like you’re right out of your favourite lifestyle transformation shows. The Market Tour involves you and an expert taking a trip to the grocery and going over what is healthy and why and what types of food you should stay away from. Similarly the Kitchen Renewal program is a nutrition clean up of your fridge, teaching how to transform your unhealthy habits.

I always find it is best to workout in classes or groups because you encourage each other to push a little bit harder. CLAY provides its members with a variety of fitness classes from yoga and sweat classes to power and core sessions. CLAY offers a number of perfect features that everyone would want in a health club: pilates studio, lounge, concierge and café services, full gym and exercise equipment, personal training and best of all ideal spa services that are perfect for a post-workout recovery session.

Are you a member of CLAY? Try out a trail membership to a luxurious heath club and let us know what you think @PierceMattiePR.

The Spa at The Mirage Hotel & Casino is taking downward-facing dog to the dolphins with a new, one-of-a-kind class, Yoga Among the Dolphins, offered in a serene, underwater viewing area within Siegfried & Roy's Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat.

"Guests from all over the world cherish the dolphins at The Mirage," said The Mirage Spa Director Stephanie Doud. "When I looked at adding yoga to our spa menu, it only made sense to take advantage of the property's exotic, wondrous dolphin world and the atmosphere of relaxation provided by the animals."

Access to that incredible space gives participants in Yoga Among the Dolphins a truly unique yoga experience. While seaside yoga retreats offer only the possibility of a glimpse, The Mirage is the only location of its kind offering classes that guarantee sightings of these charismatic creatures.

Old Edwards Inn and Spa announces the addition of 22 new guestrooms and an outdoor heated mineral pool to accommodate the growing demand for accommodations at the North Carolina mountain resort.  The Forbes Four-Star property, which cascades over several acres in the resort town of Highlands, broke ground on the project November 7, 2011.  Scheduled for completion the first quarter of 2013, the addition will bring the hotel's room count to 90. The new mineral pool will be the third at the resort; the second pool was completed in 2009 as part of the Old Edwards Club golf addition.

Guests that book at Old Edwards after the first quarter of 2013 will have the option of staying in one of the new "Falls Cottages," each named for a local waterfall. The buildings are being constructed of native wood and stone in keeping with the previous renovations—now totaling upwards of $70 million—that have taken place since 2004, when Art and Angela Williams of Palm Beach, Florida, purchased the property and began to invest in its transformation.  Like most other guestrooms and suites at the European style resort, the new rooms will feature gas fireplaces, heated marble bathroom floors, spacious living areas and the flexibility to book an entire cottage with adjoining rooms and common areas for groups or families.

Old Edwards Inn and Spa announces the addition of 22 new guestrooms and an outdoor heated mineral pool to accommodate the growing demand for accommodations at the North Carolina mountain resort.  The Forbes Four-Star property, which cascades over several acres in the resort town of Highlands, broke ground on the project November 7, 2011.  Scheduled for completion the first quarter of 2013, the addition will bring the hotel's room count to 90. The new mineral pool will be the third at the resort; the second pool was completed in 2009 as part of the Old Edwards Club golf addition.

Guests that book at Old Edwards after the first quarter of 2013 will have the option of staying in one of the new "Falls Cottages," each named for a local waterfall. The buildings are being constructed of native wood and stone in keeping with the previous renovations—now totaling upwards of $70 million—that have taken place since 2004, when Art and Angela Williams of Palm Beach, Florida, purchased the property and began to invest in its transformation.  Like most other guestrooms and suites at the European style resort, the new rooms will feature gas fireplaces, heated marble bathroom floors, spacious living areas and the flexibility to book an entire cottage with adjoining rooms and common areas for groups or families.

At this hectic and stressful time of year, what sounds better than a relaxing spa day, to focus on refreshing and renewing your spirit? The Great Jones Spa, located on Great Jones Street in NYC, provides award winning spa services, from specific treatments, to waxing and massages, the Great Jones Spa seems to offer it all. My favorite treatment the Great Jones Spa offers is the Reiki Massage - priced at $120.00 for 60 minutes - which provides you with more energy and a lingering relaxing feeling.

The Great Jones Spa also offers many enticing amenities such as their water lounge, - which offers services like thermal hot tub, steam rooms and saunas; a hair salon with luxurious cuts starting at $90.00 and makeup application starting at $85.00, which works out to be very convenient for an ultimate spa day: relaxing treatments combined with hair and makeup services to make you look radiant and beautiful. A fabulous makeup service offered by the Great Jones Spa is a makeup lesson, which is divine for learning how to achieve your desired look yourself - and finally, a juice bar - where you can sit and enjoy fresh juices off of their menu.

Great Jones Spa also offers gift certificates in any increment desired, which makes for a convenient gift.

Another great aspect of Great Jones Spa is that you can book services and treatments online, making it even more convenient to add to your schedule.

Have you tried any Great Jones Spa treatments? Let us know your favorite @PierceMattiePR.

As many of us have been told, the best way to fight the signs of aging is protecting your skin from the sun is eating antioxidants-rich fruits - like pineapple, prunes, or blueberries - eating a healthy diet, and trying to minimize the stress in your life. We are told that these simple things can help eliminate the wrinkle-face appearance, as best described by Ellen DeGeneres.

However, sometimes these instinctive ways don’t help all that much - this is where we resort to the help from anti-aging products. Radical Skin Care products are infused with the highest amount of antioxidants than any other anti-aging line, in order to produce the most effective results. Their skin care line consists many different serums like an eye revive cream that helps to decrease the level of puffiness, wrinkles and discoloring around your eye - so you don’t have to pile on the concealer to cover the bags under your eyes.

One of my favorite products is their firming neck gel, it actually helps with the lack of elasticity of your neck with the combination of antioxidants, collagen and vitamins. This gel is perfect if you want an instant lift that can really exude a newfound confidence within you.

Radical Skin Care Products are sold at Barneys ranging from about $40 to $300. Their products would make great gifts too...especially if you want to give your someone a slightly subtle hint…

Have you tried Radical Skin Care products? Let us know your favourite by tweeting us @PierceMattiePR.

As many of us have been told, the best way to fight the signs of aging is protecting your skin from the sun is eating antioxidants-rich fruits - like pineapple, prunes, or blueberries - eating a healthy diet, and trying to minimize the stress in your life. We are told that these simple things can help eliminate the wrinkle-face appearance, as best described by Ellen DeGeneres.

However, sometimes these instinctive ways don’t help all that much - this is where we resort to the help from anti-aging products. Radical Skin Care products are infused with the highest amount of antioxidants than any other anti-aging line, in order to produce the most effective results. Their skin care line consists many different serums like an eye revive cream that helps to decrease the level of puffiness, wrinkles and discoloring around your eye - so you don’t have to pile on the concealer to cover the bags under your eyes.

One of my favorite products is their firming neck gel, it actually helps with the lack of elasticity of your neck with the combination of antioxidants, collagen and vitamins. This gel is perfect if you want an instant lift that can really exude a newfound confidence within you.

Radical Skin Care Products are sold at Barneys ranging from about $40 to $300. Their products would make great gifts too...especially if you want to give your someone a slightly subtle hint…

Have you tried Radical Skin Care products? Let us know your favourite by tweeting us @PierceMattiePR.

We've long known the benefits of omega-3's for heart health, and in recent years if you've had a child, you may have seen "DHA" on formula as important to brain health. Now, a new study, confirms just how important omega-3 fatty acids are for brain health, as baby boomers and their parents begin to fight memory loss and Alzheimer's (my grandmother included.)

Stefan Pinto had written previously about the benefits of Omega-3s for fat loss and encouraged taking daily fish oil supplements. I took Stefan's advice, but had a different benefit--it helped reduce inflammation in my joints. Diets rich in Omega-3s, as well as Vitamins B, C, D and E, have been shown to have an effect on brain shrinkage, which is associated with memory loss and Alzheimer's. Since my grandmother's recent diagnosis of Alzheimer's, I'm hoping an additional benefit of taking my 1000mg of fish oil along with my multi-vitamin daily helps me to avoid memory loss, as well. 

It's better to be proactive and begin incorporating these into your diet now rather than when you begin to show symptoms. Remember, there's so much we can reap from a healthy diet, but when there are times when that is not possible (like an overindulgent client dinner), be sure to take supplments and your vitamins.

Do you incorporate Omega-3s and vitamins into your daily eating habits? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

It seems whenever we try to solve a problem we end up creating another problem in order to solve the original one. Now that problem “A” is solved what are we going to do about problem “B” that was created in the wake of problem “A”? It is frustrating and somewhat depressing always having to choose between the lesser of two evils. We are facing this paradox in the unlikeliest of markets today: seafood.

Seafood is in growing demand so going out and catching a lot of fish puts burden on the wild stocks of fish. To solve this problem fish farming methods were created to help ease the burden on these stocks. Here is the problem: In order to raise fish on a farm you have to catch smaller fish to feed the fish that will be served to seafood lovers. The cycle of lesser evils begins. Or does it?

Researchers at the Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology have developed a plant-based diet for three kinds of popular fish. Basically they have put these fish on a vegetarian diet. Our first thought? What is this going to make the fish taste like? According to the institute taste-testers have not been able to taste the difference between the plant-eating vegan fish and their flesh-eating brothers. Although we are on the right track to solving two problems they have only taste-tested fish that were on a partial plant and fish oil diet, not on a completely plant-eating fish.

There is a good plan set for the future to protect our beloved seafood demands. This is actually solving a lot of problems. It is putting less stress on wild fish stocks. Secondly, ecosystems are fragile and when you start taking species out of this delicate balance something sooner or later is going to get thrown off. Finally (and probably most important to us), we get to enjoy our healthy and sought after seafood.

Tweet us your thoughts @PierceMattiePR.

*Photo source: delish.com

Along with keeping up with the resolutions of the new year, not only comes staying physically fit through exercise, but by way of healthy eating as well.  Not to say that either of these practices are obligatory, yet combining both actions is the most efficient way to a healthier and better looking body. For a while here in NY, we've had FreshDirect and now Amazon has answered the call for the West coast

AmazonFresh offers many of the same online grocery shopping abilities like ordering fresh produce, the use of mobile apps for iPhone, Android and Windows 7, as well as delivery. However, AmazonFresh has the one thing FreshDirect and their competitors don't have...AmazonNow, which basically is a tab tapping into Amazon.com that you can add to your order. AmazonFresh offers fresh fruits and vegetables and about 15,000 nonperishable choices of groceries as well.  And how can you beat a free delivery offer?

Each customer has the delivery option of either the Pre-Dawn Delivery Process (which is before 6 a.m.) or sometime throughout the day at Doorstep Delivery option.  Right now specific zip codes do apply for the mentioned services in Seattle. 

Do you think we'll begin to see more online grocers like AmazonFresh? Have you tried it yourself?  Let us know at @PierceMattiePR.  

Pierce Mattie PR Client John Masters Organics was featured in Whole Living Magazine. If you’re working on a beauty story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie beauty PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

Being healthy is a major player in today’s pop culture. You don’t have to spend very long watching television, reading a magazine waiting for an appointment or surfing your favorite internet sites before you come across someone selling something to help you get in shape. Unless you are a fitness guru, the rest of us probably have a similar thought. Yeah, it would be nice to get in shape, but I just don’t have the time. After all, who doesn’t want to look good? It’s time to put the same excuse we have been using for years to bed. TRX Suspension Training to the rescue.

Created in the NAVY Seals, TRX Suspension Training is the premier workout for home gyms. TRX uses the formula gravity + users body weight = results. TRX suspends the users body weight as resistance to build muscle. The package comes with exercise DVDs to walk you through the process with beginner, intermediate or advanced workouts. It builds the body’s core by allowing for free range of motion. Simultaneously you will develop strength, balance and flexibility. TRX is quickly changing the way athletes and soldiers train as well as becoming a popular resource for injury rehabilitation.

You might be asking yourself, why is this any better or different than anything else out there? Here is the cool thing about TRX: You can take it anywhere. You don’t have to drive to the gym in the morning or after work when you are tired, just set it up at home. On the road? No problem, take it with you and set it up in your hotel. Maybe you are tired of being stuck inside after being in the office all day, go set it up in the park. The best part is that its simple in design but it gets the results that you want.

TRX provides the means to reach your fitness goals this year, now all you need to find is the desire to be your best self. Join the TRX community at www.trxtraining.com.Have you tried it? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

*Photo Source: Harmony Body

As we pass through each year, workout programs seem to come and go. We are watching for the newest workout to keep our bodies healthy. One claims to have the newest “technology” to help us get the lean, firm body that we have been trying to achieve for years (at least that is what we tell ourselves). They become the latest fad, everyone buys into it and then it dies out. Why?

The biggest factor in succeeding with fitness goals is if you have someone to support you, to do it with you or at least motivate you so you don’t give up. CrossFit is the latest trend for people who are trying to get in shape and it has the makings to stick around for a long time.

CrossFit is a strength and conditioning program. Police academies, military operations and professional athletes around the world use the program. It is not a specialty program but provides broad and general strength training to the individual. You might be thinking that sounds hard, and you won’t be the only one. Many people are afraid of CrossFit because it sounds hard. The makers of the program figured out whether you are an athlete or an elderly person trying to stay in shape, you don’t need a different workout you just need different degrees.

The CrossFit program is scalable to the individual so that each person can come in at any level and they will meet you where you are. The thing that makes many users successful is they can sign up for classes (all over the country) and become part of a group who are all striving for the same goal. CrossFit uses many everyday movements and no exercises are the same so it never gets boring and you aren’t putting too much stress on your joints. It is a great way to finally reach your fitness goals and make some new friends along the way.

Just because it is scalable to you, it is still a workout routine. You aren’t going to get in shape without work. To ensure that you are ready to take on the program check out CrossFit’s getting started guide. Have you tried CrossFit? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

Pierce Mattie PR Client John Masters Organics was featured in Prevention Magazine. If you’re working on a beauty story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie beauty PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

With its unique method and approach to treating disease, Hyland’s provides natural remedies for every member of the family, from the infant to the elderly.  Stringent preparation, on top of a century’s worth of homeopathic practice, Hyland’s health care remedies are endless. 

Hyland’s manufactures products for each of the following categories:  Stress/Sleep, Baby, Children’s Health, Pain Relief, Women’s Health, Digestion, Cough/Cold, First Aid, Seasonal Allergies, Skin, Topicals, Kits, Cell Salts, and Single Remedies. 

Sleep deprived from stress and anxiety?  Try Hyland’s Insomnia.  Rid yourself of worry and restlessness, with no risky side affects.  This product is safe for adults and children. 

Has that pulsating headache returned? Not an aspirin enthusiast?  Check out Hyland’s Migraine Headache Relief.  This all-natural formula is free of aspirin, acetaminophen and caffeine. More partial to topicals than tablets?  Can’t seem to escape that grating leg cramp?  Try Hyland’s Leg Cramp Ointment. Night or day, rain or shine, Hyland’s ointment temporarily relieves cramp symtomps of the leg and calf. These are only a few of the myriad remedies Hyland’s has to offer. (Shannon swears by Hyland's teething tablets! It's the only way she kept her sanity when each of her 4 sons were teething.)

Are you into holistic healthcare?  Have you checked out any of Hyland’s products?  What are your thoughts?  Let us know @PierceMattiePR.  

Warm up your winter!  There is nothing akin to bubble baths, candles, and a cup of delicious, yet calming tea at the end of your day to unwind and relax before getting some shut-eye for the night.   I was never too keen on my herbal tea preference until Yogi Tea was brought to my attention.

Although we are no longer infants, we seem to still cling to our child-like ways.  What says relaxation more so than soaking in a hot bath with hot liquid (now tea and no longer milk) running through your inner pipe works?  I cannot contrive a greater scenario. 

Yogi Tea proposes a wide variety of teas with many different, delightful flavors, each while serving a different purpose.  Do you yearn for a tranquil something to sip on?  Or perhaps you want to recharge your batteries in the a.m. and aren’t so partial to coffee.  (Neither am I!) 

Yogi Tea’s innovative, interactive website prompts you to make an initial decision with choosing your tea first by choosing either: mood, flavor or purpose.  By choosing mood, Yogi Tea asks, “how would you like to feel today?”  By choosing flavor, Yogi simply asks, “what flavor would you like to enjoy?”  And lastly, by choosing purpose, “what benefit would you like from your tea?” is asked to further discover your desires. 

Check out Yogi Tea’s colossal, flavorful selection!  Benefit your life or simply your taste buds! Is this your cup of tea?  (No pun intended!)  If you've tried Yogi Tea tweet us @PierceMattiePR.  

Warm up your winter!  There is nothing akin to bubble baths, candles, and a cup of delicious, yet calming tea at the end of your day to unwind and relax before getting some shut-eye for the night.   I was never too keen on my herbal tea preference until Yogi Tea was brought to my attention.

Although we are no longer infants, we seem to still cling to our child-like ways.  What says relaxation more so than soaking in a hot bath with hot liquid (now tea and no longer milk) running through your inner pipe works?  I cannot contrive a greater scenario. 

Yogi Tea proposes a wide variety of teas with many different, delightful flavors, each while serving a different purpose.  Do you yearn for a tranquil something to sip on?  Or perhaps you want to recharge your batteries in the a.m. and aren’t so partial to coffee.  (Neither am I!) 

Yogi Tea’s innovative, interactive website prompts you to make an initial decision with choosing your tea first by choosing either: mood, flavor or purpose.  By choosing mood, Yogi Tea asks, “how would you like to feel today?”  By choosing flavor, Yogi simply asks, “what flavor would you like to enjoy?”  And lastly, by choosing purpose, “what benefit would you like from your tea?” is asked to further discover your desires. 

Check out Yogi Tea’s colossal, flavorful selection!  Benefit your life or simply your taste buds! Is this your cup of tea?  (No pun intended!)  If you've tried Yogi Tea tweet us @PierceMattiePR.  

Warm up your winter!  There is nothing akin to bubble baths, candles, and a cup of delicious, yet calming tea at the end of your day to unwind and relax before getting some shut-eye for the night.   I was never too keen on my herbal tea preference until Yogi Tea was brought to my attention.

Although we are no longer infants, we seem to still cling to our child-like ways.  What says relaxation more so than soaking in a hot bath with hot liquid (now tea and no longer milk) running through your inner pipe works?  I cannot contrive a greater scenario. 

Yogi Tea proposes a wide variety of teas with many different, delightful flavors, each while serving a different purpose.  Do you yearn for a tranquil something to sip on?  Or perhaps you want to recharge your batteries in the a.m. and aren’t so partial to coffee.  (Neither am I!) 

Yogi Tea’s innovative, interactive website prompts you to make an initial decision with choosing your tea first by choosing either: mood, flavor or purpose.  By choosing mood, Yogi Tea asks, “how would you like to feel today?”  By choosing flavor, Yogi simply asks, “what flavor would you like to enjoy?”  And lastly, by choosing purpose, “what benefit would you like from your tea?” is asked to further discover your desires. 

Check out Yogi Tea’s colossal, flavorful selection!  Benefit your life or simply your taste buds! Is this your cup of tea?  (No pun intended!)  If you've tried Yogi Tea tweet us @PierceMattiePR.  

Pierce Mattie PR Client No! No! Hair was featured in Glamour Magazine. If you’re working on a hair removal story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie beauty PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

Pierce Mattie PR Client No! No! Hair was featured in Glamour Magazine. If you’re working on a hair removal story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie beauty PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

Lobster is not only delicious and considered a luxury food item, but it also offers health benefits such as Zinc, Phosphorus, Vitamin B12, Copper, and Selenium, is also low in cholesterol, saturated fats, and calories.

Lobster (especially from Maine) is so delicious and buttery; it melts in your mouth and you avoid looking at your plate because you never want it to be gone. It is a delicacy that you wish you could experience more and more every time it touches your lips.

Thanks to Hancock Gourmet Lobster Company based in Maine, it is a delicacy you can now experience more regularly. Hancock Lobster Company has a full array of lobster and seafood that will deliver right to your front door so you can enjoy lobster in the comfort of your own home.

Not only can you order Lemon Butter Tails (4 -5oz. tails for $80) but you can also order Live Main Lobsters (4 -1.25lb lobsters for $115) and cook them yourself. Order rich and delicious lobster and seafood that will melt in your mouth for your family dinner or impress your guests at your next party with Hancock Gourmet Lobster Company crab cakes ($47 for 6), crab dip ($56 for 2- 14oz containers), and lobster flatbread ($33) (pictured). Your party will be the talk of the town and everyone will leave craving more or wishing they could go to Maine!

Have you tried Hancock Gourmet Lobster Company? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

There are plenty of options if you are looking for the perfect diet. Many of us might have even tried a few of them and not found the results we were looking for. There is a new place to look with researchers and fitness gurus searching in the unlikeliest of places: hunter-gatherer ancestors. It might seem odd at first, but the Paleo Diet is quickly becoming a popular diet option for those who are trying to get healthy and it has the research to back it up.

It has been difficult to define exactly what the Paleo Diet is because it is always changing with time as more research is being done. However, there are a few ideas that stay the same. The idea of the Paleo Diet is based off the diet of our hunter-gatherer ancestors. They were free of many of the diseases that plague us today including obesity, cancer and cardiovascular diseases. For a quick understanding all you need to know is what was available for these ancient people to eat. The answer: Meat, fish, fowl, vegetables, fruits, tubers and nuts. That’s basically all you need to know. If you question whether you should eat something just think if it falls in that list and if it doesn’t then you don’t eat it. Along with what you eat other things to consider are adequate sleep, stress, vitamin D levels and physical activity.

Fembody Nutrition is proud to announce Paula Abdul as their national celebrity spokesperson. Acclaimed recording artist and judge on FOX's hit talent show "The X-Factor," Paula Abdul reveals that her commitment to promoting health and wellness is the reason she partnered with Fembody Nutrition.

Fembody Nutrition focuses on the health of women with unique, innovative nutritional supplements. This new line allows women to find cutting edge specialty support for beauty, weight management, and wellness in one go-to premium brand exclusively at GNC. 

"I am thrilled to start this journey as Fembody™ Nutrition's spokeswoman," Ms. Abdul said. "I am looking forward to building the Fembody™ Nutrition brand and assisting women embrace positive change in their lives to help maintain their health."

Paula Abdul is known for her optimistic attitude and everlasting energy, and a healthy lifestyle is a priority for this talented artist.

"The truth is that with my grueling schedule, it is so hard to maintain a healthy diet and a strict wellness regimen," Ms. Abdul added. "You can rely on Fembody Nutrition to supplement your everyday routine."

When we think of skin care, most of us envision the commercials with women talking about the products they use to get beautiful, healthy skin.  Damaged skin cells caused by dryness, oils and reactions to the environment are dangers to our skin’s health and appearance. No matter how courageous or invincible a man may feel, his skin is not immune to these hazards. Men aren't really taught how to properly care for their skin, and yes, it involves more than using your shampoo as body wash and to cleanse your face (a definite don't!) Do not leave your skin's health up to fate because we all know that the best defense is a good offense.  TASK Essential has created a brand for men to take care of their own skin (and shows them how.)

Denis Feraille and Isabelle Couturet founded TASK Essential in 2004 when men’s skincare was a relatively new idea. They wanted to create a brand that was designed for men and spoke their language. After 2 years of research TASK Essential was born.  Since their beginning TASK has opened 2 Men’s Treatment centers in Paris and created a product line that ranges from skin care products to fragrances. Their products can be found in stores in dozens of locations in North America, Europe, Asia and Australia.  They help men take care of themselves from head to toe.

A reduction in oxygen pressure on the skin has been linked to aging. TASK products combine pure oxygen cells with extracts from plant, fruit and vitamin extracts. What they have done is made the oxygen into liquid form so you can apply it to your body and it will be carried to your body’s cells.  What does that mean to you as a man? You have the cutting-edge weapons to protect your own skin. If you don’t know exactly how to take care of your skin look at their skin care guide. They have the means to keep you looking your best whether you are an athlete, the outdoors type or a city gentleman.

We spend so much time taking care of ourselves and our skin should be something we should also consider.  After you have looked at the skin care guide visit the TASK online store to begin building your offense against aging skin.Have you used TASK Essential or visited their treatment centers? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

Pierce Mattie PR Client Earth Therapeutics was featured in Spa Magazine. If you’re working on a wellness story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie beauty PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

Pierce Mattie PR Client Earth Therapeutics was featured in Spa Magazine. If you’re working on a wellness story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie beauty PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.

A specific trend that emerged in 2011 but is heading full force into 2012, is Scandinavian cuisine. Why you may ask? It may just be a brief fascination with the Scandinavian culture but it is possibly the sheer nature of the Scandinavian diet. This diet includes small portions, and fresh, natural foods, which is evolving to be the goal foundation of many American diets. Regardless of the reason, more and more people are taking notice of these cultural treasures all throughout New York City. If you have not yet tried the tasty treats check out one of these Scandinavian spots!

Aquavit 

Aquavit is located in Midtown on 55th Street between Madison and Park Avenues. It features premium Nordic cuisine in an atmosphere that is sophisticated, and classy; perfect for an exotic dinner with your friends. If you are not dining in the any of their private dining rooms, you can have a relaxed night out in the lounge which features a full bar and signature aquavit beverages such as the Aquavit Negroni. As for the dinner dining options, four and seven course meals are available that will cost approximately $89 and $115 per person respectively.

Smorgas Chef

Although this restaurant serves Scandinavian food, it knows the on-the-go lifestyle of the typical New Yorker. Smorgas Chef describes itself as a place casual enough for an impromptu delicious meal, yet sophisticated enough for a planned romantic date night. It has three locations throughout the city, in West Village, Wall Street, and at the Scandinavia House Cultural Center in Midtown. All Smorgas Chef entrees range from $16-$30 with a flat rate of $12 for all cocktails. If you happen to live near any of the Smorgas Chef locations, you can even take advantage of their delivery services on those lazy nights or weekends. If you try all three locations and still end up begging for more Nordic cuisine, check out the Chef’s new French-Scandinavian Creperie called Crepes Du Nord in the Financial District!

Fika

A prominent aspect of Scandinavian culture is the midday break for tea and coffee. If you are anything like me, and thrive off of my daily dose of caffeine, you may want to include Fika into your daily routine. Located in Central Park South, the Flatiron District, and the Financial District. Here you can truly indulge in the Swedish way of life by taking a coffee break to enjoy Fika’s delicious gourmet. Once you have had the coffee, it would be a dishonor to turn down their “choklads” to kick start your day. Additionally, their lunch and breakfast menus include delectable Swedish flavors to compliment your coffee and chocolates.

What are you favorite Scandinavian Spots in NYC? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

Crystal Cruises' guests can sail through airports in VIP fashion, bypassing the customary stress associated with flying.  Door-to-gate porter and escort services, fast-track processes, and access to VIP/Business Class Lounges, where available, are all part of the groundbreaking, new "Crystal VIP Airport Service" – the first of its kind offered by a cruise line.

The personalized, 24/7 luxury service, available for purchase internationally by all Crystal cruisers, utilizes worldwide, "on-the-ground" airport resources to facilitate a hassle-free airport experience for guests travelling to and from their Crystal ship.  Travelers might feel like a rock star with customized, luxury services that may include:

• Greeting upon airport arrival (inbound, outbound and connecting flights)
• Luggage porter service
• Flight tracking and handling, including assistance with delayed or cancelled flights and related lodging, transportation, meals, etc.
• Escorted and expedited check-in, security, customs, and immigration
• Entry to restricted-access airport lounges
• Preferred boarding
• Limousine/town car transfers between airport, home, day room, and/or ship   

Crystal Cruises' guests can sail through airports in VIP fashion, bypassing the customary stress associated with flying.  Door-to-gate porter and escort services, fast-track processes, and access to VIP/Business Class Lounges, where available, are all part of the groundbreaking, new "Crystal VIP Airport Service" – the first of its kind offered by a cruise line.

The personalized, 24/7 luxury service, available for purchase internationally by all Crystal cruisers, utilizes worldwide, "on-the-ground" airport resources to facilitate a hassle-free airport experience for guests travelling to and from their Crystal ship.  Travelers might feel like a rock star with customized, luxury services that may include:

• Greeting upon airport arrival (inbound, outbound and connecting flights)
• Luggage porter service
• Flight tracking and handling, including assistance with delayed or cancelled flights and related lodging, transportation, meals, etc.
• Escorted and expedited check-in, security, customs, and immigration
• Entry to restricted-access airport lounges
• Preferred boarding
• Limousine/town car transfers between airport, home, day room, and/or ship   

It's never too early to fight prostate cancer, according to new research linking male circumcision at birth and a reduced risk of prostate cancer. A recent study published in the Cancer journal shows circumcised men could be 15 percent less likely to develop prostate cancer as an adult. As New York's leading robotic prostate cancer surgeon, Dr. David Samadi, welcomes this close-to-home news in the battle against prostate cancer.

Dr. Kevin M. Johnson of Advanced Aesthetics is known for being an early adopter of effective options to plastic surgery in Spokane. Now, for his patients who want to smooth away the "orange peel" look of cellulite, Dr. Johnson is featuring a revolutionary non-surgical option: Cellulaze™.

"Many of my patients choose me because they know I'm focused on designing a treatment plan that meets their needs, whether it's a no-downtime option to Spokane plastic surgery or a solution that works – permanently – to banish cellulite," Dr. Johnson says. "For that reason, I was delighted to discover Cellulaze, which achieves both goals.

“Cellulite can be particularly frustrating because it rarely responds to even the strictest diet or fitness program. That's where Cellulaze comes in. With just one laser treatment, I can smooth the dimpled surface that is characteristic of cellulite."

Cellulite can be caused by hormonal changes, heredity, weight fluctuation and the aging process, Dr. Johnson says. Bands of connective tissue beneath the skin tighten, causing the surrounding fat cells to enlarge and create that "cottage cheese" appearance.

Cellulaze releases those fibrous bands, using laser energy, which is delivered through a small tube inserted under the patient's skin. This minimally invasive alternative to plastic surgery in Idaho involves only tiny incisions, and Dr. Johnson keeps his patients comfortable by using a local anesthetic.

"Although a typical Cellulaze treatment takes only about an hour, the benefits are multifaceted," Dr. Johnson says. "It evens out those lumps of fat, so your skin looks smooth. In addition, Cellulaze stimulates your body to produce more collagen. That, in turn, makes your skin more elastic and enhances its appearance."

In addition to Cellulaze, Dr. Johnson offers a variety of body contouring methods, including CoolSculpting® and liposuction. Other popular procedures at his practice include injectable fillers, laser hair removal and skin and vein treatments.

Although avocados are most likely famous for their annual appearance in Super Bowl party guacamole, most people are not aware of the amazing health and beauty benefits this fruit beholds. While avocados used to have a poor reputation due to its 85% fat content, researchers have recently dispelled myths about this fruit. Currently, avocados are known as a super fruit that excels in nutrition, heart health, skin, hair, and being a tasty complement to ordinary dishes.

Avocados are perfect for anyone who is engaging in an active lifestyle. With the spring and summer months, you now have more opportunities to enjoy the fresh air and exercise outside. To complement your fitness routine, a simple avocado snack can provide you with key nutrients to fuel your body. Avocados have over 13 vitamins including vitamins A, C, D, E and B vitamins. Additionally, it has good fats, which are essential in providing energy to the body for the ultimate workout.

If that isn’t enough of a reason to fully add avocados into your diet, they are also known to provide tremendous natural beauty remedies. It can enhance and remedy anything from puffy eyes, dry skin, and hair. This fruit also can create a low maintenance mask to rejuvenate your skin. The only ingredient is the avocado, which you mash and spread evenly on your face, then let sit for 15 minutes. This is perfect if you have dry or sensitive skin that may react negatively to harsh chemicals.

Of course, they are a tasty, nutritious addition to some of your simple salads, soups, and entrée’s. For new recipes to incorporate this nutritious super fruit into your diet, visit Avocado.org  to experiment with some delicious treats.

How do you use this super fruit as a health benefit? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

Although avocados are most likely famous for their annual appearance in Super Bowl party guacamole, most people are not aware of the amazing health and beauty benefits this fruit beholds. While avocados used to have a poor reputation due to its 85% fat content, researchers have recently dispelled myths about this fruit. Currently, avocados are known as a super fruit that excels in nutrition, heart health, skin, hair, and being a tasty complement to ordinary dishes.

Avocados are perfect for anyone who is engaging in an active lifestyle. With the spring and summer months, you now have more opportunities to enjoy the fresh air and exercise outside. To complement your fitness routine, a simple avocado snack can provide you with key nutrients to fuel your body. Avocados have over 13 vitamins including vitamins A, C, D, E and B vitamins. Additionally, it has good fats, which are essential in providing energy to the body for the ultimate workout.

If that isn’t enough of a reason to fully add avocados into your diet, they are also known to provide tremendous natural beauty remedies. It can enhance and remedy anything from puffy eyes, dry skin, and hair. This fruit also can create a low maintenance mask to rejuvenate your skin. The only ingredient is the avocado, which you mash and spread evenly on your face, then let sit for 15 minutes. This is perfect if you have dry or sensitive skin that may react negatively to harsh chemicals.

Of course, they are a tasty, nutritious addition to some of your simple salads, soups, and entrée’s. For new recipes to incorporate this nutritious super fruit into your diet, visit Avocado.org  to experiment with some delicious treats.

How do you use this super fruit as a health benefit? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

Petrossian began as a retailer in the 1920s by two Armenian brothers. They began their business by introducing the delicacy of fine caviar to the Parisians. After the French demonstrated an appreciation for the finer foods in life, Petrossian expanded to selling other products such as fine chocolates, smoked salmon, cheeses, jams, wine and baked goods. Prices range anywhere from $11 pates to $300 goose fois gras gastronome, perfect for a summertime tea with the girls or a poker game with old chums. 

Petrossian has retailer locations in New York City , West Hollywood and online. For the past eighty years, Petrossian has maintained an honorable reputation of being a top importer of caviar from all over world. Quality and excellence are two of the the ideals Petrossian has strived to maintain over the years, with fresh caviar prepared and aged to perfection. 

Whether Petrossian products are purchased as a holiday gift option or personal splurge, you won't be disappointed in the eclectic mix of flavors this company has to offer. The different caviar species are available online with information about color and taste to help the customer find the perfect fit. Drink and storage recommendations are also available to make the caviar enjoyment process one to never forget. 

Visit the Petrossian website for more information about gift baskets, delivery options and more. 

Petrossian began as a retailer in the 1920s by two Armenian brothers. They began their business by introducing the delicacy of fine caviar to the Parisians. After the French demonstrated an appreciation for the finer foods in life, Petrossian expanded to selling other products such as fine chocolates, smoked salmon, cheeses, jams, wine and baked goods. Prices range anywhere from $11 pates to $300 goose fois gras gastronome, perfect for a summertime tea with the girls or a poker game with old chums. 

Petrossian has retailer locations in New York City , West Hollywood and online. For the past eighty years, Petrossian has maintained an honorable reputation of being a top importer of caviar from all over world. Quality and excellence are two of the the ideals Petrossian has strived to maintain over the years, with fresh caviar prepared and aged to perfection. 

Whether Petrossian products are purchased as a holiday gift option or personal splurge, you won't be disappointed in the eclectic mix of flavors this company has to offer. The different caviar species are available online with information about color and taste to help the customer find the perfect fit. Drink and storage recommendations are also available to make the caviar enjoyment process one to never forget. 

Visit the Petrossian website for more information about gift baskets, delivery options and more. 

You always hear about foreign medicine and herbal remedies when you are sick, but have you ever considered that your skin can be sick too? Wrinkles, acne, and redness are symptoms your skin if suffering from when it is "sick" so why not treat it with something that is sure to cure it? Lily of Lily Herbceuticals has combined Western active ingredients and Chinese Herbals that will cure your skin and give you the beautiful skin you have always wanted.

Lily has figured out the secret to long lasting beautiful skin as she works with Chinese Herbal doctors from the Shanghai Institute to formulate products that maximize the results of skin care remedies.

Lily’s secret is their patent pending 3D tensor technology delivery system that helps the active ingredients penetrate faster and deeper into the skin to generate long lasting results that will leave you with beautiful skin. Lily Herbceuticals uses innovative technologies and natural ingredients such as the Angelica root to revitalize your chi, Bamboo Leaf to stimulate circulation, and Chinese Pearl Powder to prolong beauty.

With individual products ranging from $35-$87 and a six piece complete assortment set for $140, Lily Herbceuticals has something to help everyone gain long-lasting skin care results.

Products such as the Chinese Jade Intense Facial Luminous Firmer, Tibetan Essence Eye Dark Circle Defense, and Tibetan Safflower Youth Restore Instant Wrinkle Repair will help you achieve younger looking skin while Lily Herbceuticals also carries everyday cleaners and moisturizers.

Have you ever tried skin products with herbal remedies? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR

Stress tends to come and go like the waves in the ocean. One moment, life is calm and the next you may feel as if you are carrying the burden of 100-foot tidal waves. For these unfortunate times, it is imperative to relax and pamper yourself and always keep your inner and outer beauty in mind. Scheduling a spa day is the perfect remedy for the unexpected chaos of life.

While Hilton Hotels have integrated spa components to their hospitality services, the company rebranded its spa image back in 2010 with the opening of eforea spa at the Hilton in Short Hills, NJ. This new spa experience plans to pull the best practices from Asia, Africa, Australia and Europe to satisfy a desired worldly experience.

eforea spa at Hilton focuses on the individual by catering to both the wellness and beauty aspects of a peaceful mind and body. The completed spa journeys build components of holistic treatments, sure to relax every muscle. Regardless of your specific ailment, one of the Eforea journeys will satisfy your needs, whether it is a Head-to-Toe Revitalization, a Sensitive Skin Facial or an Ageless Hands treatment.

For example, the Total Healing Body Experience, which runs for approximately 90 minutes, infuses Aboriginal inspired treatments with aromatherapy and exfoliating Australian desert salts. This service provides you with an invigorating full body experience including a featured scalp massage. For the 90 minute treatment, the Total Healing Body Experience costs about $195. If you are looking for a customized cleansing facial, Eforea provides that type of service as well. A 60 minute Customized Cleansing Facial costs about $135 and includes a personalized facial catering your skin type. Finally, the Eforea spa offers a full service salon for manicures, pedicures and hair care.

Have you experienced any spa treatments at eforea? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

I find that more and more people are looking toward a vegetarian or vegan diet. Whether it is to detoxify the body of impurities or chemicals, or refrain from consuming animal byproducts, it is evident that the vegan movement continues to grow indefinitely. The most difficult task for vegans is to enjoy cuisine at a restaurant that caters to those dietary needs.  Overcome those difficult outings and take a look at a few of these vegan and vegetarian restaurants in New York City!
          
A popular vegan restaurant in New York is Blossom located in Chelsea. It is a quaint but upscale restaurant that offers a wide array of vegan options. The restaurant is open for dinner every night and open for brunch on the weekends. Some of the featured items on the menu include Seitan Scaloppini, Lemongrass Crusted Tofu, and Lasagna. For dinner, the entrées typically range from $18 - $22. There are two additional Café Blossom locations on the Upper West Side and West Village for a more casual setting.

Candle 79 is another vegan hotspot located on the Upper East Side. They pride themselves on serving organic cuisine by promoting sustainable practices in their business operations. An interesting aspect of the restaurant is that along with organic meal specials, are their “Eco Cocktails”. Some of these include Strawberry Fields, Rasa and Rum, and Tropical Sage which all feature organic ingredients. Candle 79 is open for brunch, lunch and dinner at specific times throughout the week.

Dirt Candy is creatively named for its commitment to the vegetables that grow and are natural pieces of the earth. The restaurant is located in East Village and opened in October 2008 by Chef Amanda Cohen. She is a graduate of Natural Gourmet’s Chef Training Program and has a history of working with vegetarian and organic restaurants. She opened Dirt Candy to pursue her love for the industry. Dirt Candy features creative and intricate dishes with simple names such as “Cucumber” and “Corn”. These entrées are between $17-$19 and can easily be made vegan dishes upon request.

Have you been to any of the vegan and vegetarian restaurants in New York City? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

I find that more and more people are looking toward a vegetarian or vegan diet. Whether it is to detoxify the body of impurities or chemicals, or refrain from consuming animal byproducts, it is evident that the vegan movement continues to grow indefinitely. The most difficult task for vegans is to enjoy cuisine at a restaurant that caters to those dietary needs.  Overcome those difficult outings and take a look at a few of these vegan and vegetarian restaurants in New York City!
          
A popular vegan restaurant in New York is Blossom located in Chelsea. It is a quaint but upscale restaurant that offers a wide array of vegan options. The restaurant is open for dinner every night and open for brunch on the weekends. Some of the featured items on the menu include Seitan Scaloppini, Lemongrass Crusted Tofu, and Lasagna. For dinner, the entrées typically range from $18 - $22. There are two additional Café Blossom locations on the Upper West Side and West Village for a more casual setting.

Candle 79 is another vegan hotspot located on the Upper East Side. They pride themselves on serving organic cuisine by promoting sustainable practices in their business operations. An interesting aspect of the restaurant is that along with organic meal specials, are their “Eco Cocktails”. Some of these include Strawberry Fields, Rasa and Rum, and Tropical Sage which all feature organic ingredients. Candle 79 is open for brunch, lunch and dinner at specific times throughout the week.

Dirt Candy is creatively named for its commitment to the vegetables that grow and are natural pieces of the earth. The restaurant is located in East Village and opened in October 2008 by Chef Amanda Cohen. She is a graduate of Natural Gourmet’s Chef Training Program and has a history of working with vegetarian and organic restaurants. She opened Dirt Candy to pursue her love for the industry. Dirt Candy features creative and intricate dishes with simple names such as “Cucumber” and “Corn”. These entrées are between $17-$19 and can easily be made vegan dishes upon request.

Have you been to any of the vegan and vegetarian restaurants in New York City? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR.

Fitness resorts are all the rage as fitness goers long for a mix of fun in their workout program with long lasting results. These camps or live-in type fitness programs offers something for everyone that help you with a lifestyle change rather than simply focusing on a diet or just exercise. California Fitness Camp has been getting media attention, especially because it's not just a 1 week stay as if being on vacation, some residents are there for months to transform their eating habits and workout regimen.

California Fitness Camp starts off with a full body analysis, so that you know what your baseline is in order to watch the transformation as you work through your time there. And as everyone's needs are different, they customize a fitness plan that caters to you. Food is prepared by a 5-star chef, but in order to make sure that healthy meal preparation is something you can carry out once you are back in your own home, they also offer education and cooking classes on healthy eating habits, recipes and even how to manage food on the go. And of course, your mental attitude plays a big role in your weight loss success, so spa treatments are incorporated into your stay.

California Fitness Camp is located at the 5-star La Costa Resort & Spa in Carlsbad, California. The grounds are gorgeous and the luxury accomodations would motivate anyone to want to book their stay here to get in shape.

Would you consider a live-in resort such as California Fitness Camp for your exercise and weight loss needs? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR. 

Fitness resorts are all the rage as fitness goers long for a mix of fun in their workout program with long lasting results. These camps or live-in type fitness programs offers something for everyone that help you with a lifestyle change rather than simply focusing on a diet or just exercise. California Fitness Camp has been getting media attention, especially because it's not just a 1 week stay as if being on vacation, some residents are there for months to transform their eating habits and workout regimen.

California Fitness Camp starts off with a full body analysis, so that you know what your baseline is in order to watch the transformation as you work through your time there. And as everyone's needs are different, they customize a fitness plan that caters to you. Food is prepared by a 5-star chef, but in order to make sure that healthy meal preparation is something you can carry out once you are back in your own home, they also offer education and cooking classes on healthy eating habits, recipes and even how to manage food on the go. And of course, your mental attitude plays a big role in your weight loss success, so spa treatments are incorporated into your stay.

California Fitness Camp is located at the 5-star La Costa Resort & Spa in Carlsbad, California. The grounds are gorgeous and the luxury accomodations would motivate anyone to want to book their stay here to get in shape.

Would you consider a live-in resort such as California Fitness Camp for your exercise and weight loss needs? Tweet us @PierceMattiePR. 

The weather is beautiful and I want to be outside.  The mild winter we had didn’t keep me indoors for too long, but as soon as the sun starts to shine I begin to go a bit stir crazy no matter how active I have been.  Being locked up inside whether in an office or at home is a tease and makes me crave the weekends and my summer vacations. 

Beautiful weather activities usually include a nice bike ride, a picnic, or a sunset run but don’t you ever want to do something different to make that weekend just a little bit more adventurous? I don’t know about you, but waking up the next day with sore muscles from a fun activity seems so much more worth it than waking up sore from an hour spent at the gym. So here are a few fun and new ways to get outdoors and enjoy the weather:

1. Kayaking. This is definitely a great way to enjoy being outdoors and get a good workout. A lot of lakes (and even rivers but if you are new to this sport I would suggest the calmer waters of a lake) have classes to teach you how to kayak and even have equipment for you to rent.  Be sure to check out L.L.Bean for all of your kayaking essentials.

2. Jet Skiing. I personally love jet skiing and do it as often as I can. It is a great way to get on the water on a beautiful day and just have a blast. Make sure you wear a lot of sunscreen and don’t forget the life jacket. Check with your closest lake or sporting goods store for jet skiing rentals and equipment. While not necessarily fitness...jet skiing does get your outdoors and active!

3. Golfing. Summer mornings and summer nights are my absolute favorite, so why not get out and play a round of golf as the sun is coming up or setting?  Most golf courses have specials for night golf, which can be a lot of fun as long as the mosquitos have gone to bed for the night. Check out PING for all of your golf needs.

4. Hiking. This is the ultimate outdoor adventure for a beautiful day.  Pick a day that isn’t going to be unbearably hot and find a hike with a beautiful view or a lake to jump into to make it that much more enjoyable. Check out Keen Footwear for the best hiking shoes for your adventure. The Keen Voyageur is the best hiking shoe for summer!                                                                 

5. Zip-Lining. Have you ever wondered how your favorite or local ski resorts make any money during the summer? Well they have these huge mountains with beautiful scenery that are perfect for zip-lining. I went for my first time last summer and fell in love. Make a weekend out of it and get some outdoor time in while experiencing a beautiful view as you’re gliding down a mountain.

Regardless of how you choose to spend your beautiful days, if you are outdoors don’t forget the sunscreen!

How are you going to spend your free time this summer to squeeze in some outdoor fitness? Let us know @PierceMattiePR. 

Pierce Mattie PR wellness client 21 Drops was featured in Prevention Magazine. If you’re working on an aromatherapy story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie lifestyle PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.  

Pierce Mattie PR wellness client 21 Drops was featured in Brisbane's Map Magazine. If you’re working on an aromatherapy story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie lifestyle PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.  

Pierce Mattie PR wellness client 21 Drops was featured in Brisbane's Map Magazine. If you’re working on an aromatherapy story be sure to give our Pierce Mattie lifestyle PR team a call at 212-243-1431 or follow us on Twitter @PierceMattiePR and FaceBook.