Listen to Lena

Perfecting the Art of Conversuasion

health and wellness

Feel More Energized with Blue Light, Naturally.

By 26 Comments

I know you’ve been waiting for this.

Based on feedback from my previous post (and there’s A LOT of curiosity and excitement), you all want to know one thing:

“Does the Philips goLITE BLU energy light work? Do you feel more energized, Lena?”

I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about my answer – maybe too much time – because I want to answer completely and honestly as I always do. At first, I thought I’d write a list of pros and cons… but truthfully, there weren’t many cons. Then I thought I’d share snippets of my mood diary, which is by far the most convincing argument to go out and try the goLITE BLU. But in the end, I decided a picture is worth a thousand words, so I’ll just let you decide for yourself. Your question: Do you feel more energized, well rested and happier?

My answer:
It’s true, friends – I’m feeling on top of my game, on top of the world. And here’s why I think the Philips goLITE BLU had an important role to play. …

Read More

The Battle of the Holiday Bulge, and How to WIN.

By

Now that we’ve established that Fall Body is a thing, it’s time to turn our attention to most magical time of year.

For every Christmas, turn, turn, turn.
There is a temptation, turn, turn, turn.
And a plate filled with cookies and holiday cheer.

Tell me: HOW can any self-loving woman resist all the splendours of the season? It’s almost impossible to turn down a glass of Irish cream on ice or a second helping of savoury stuffing. And please don’t judge the amount of baked goodies that I can consume without batting an eyelash. If there’s a time to create a Healthy Holidays plan, it’s now!

(Homemade salted caramels? Oh yeah, they’re also a thing chez Lena.)
Dessert-Moments1-662x1024 copyToday, I’m pleased to share some tried and true tips for managing your weight throughout the holidays. Some are common sense – like don’t overeat! – but for the times you do find yourself indulging a little too much and a little too often, there are ways to circumvent those added inches. …

Read More

Brace-Bound Teeth: Keeping ’em Clean

By

It’s a time I remember very well, because really, it didn’t happen too long ago. Yes, I was an adult with braces. You know, the gal who studied and worked during the day, and at night, went clubbing with her girlfriends. That was me! And when that tall, dark stranger approached, I gave him a shy, reserved smile… because anything would be better than revealing a mouth full of metal at age 21 – UGH!

(Oh, and when the orthodontist tells you that your braces will be off in 12 months, it’s a lie. Two full years of brace-face, baby! You don’t forget stuff like that.)

Okay, so clubbing sucked. And so did the removal of four teeth. And getting the braces on. And the elastics. And that damned retainer. But if I had to single out the worst experience of wearing braces, it was definitely keeping my teeth clean and healthy while trying to navigate through all the wire. Even though it’s only been 15 years since I had my braces, electric toothbrushes weren’t a thing back then, so I had to rely on good old fashioned brushing (and pretty much failed miserably). I truly wish I had taken better care of my teeth when I had braces, because when they came off, I was the proud owner of straight teeth – but they were discoloured and I had acquired two cavities. (Insert sad face.) Weeks of whitening strips and two filled cavities later, I could finally enjoy my brand new pearly whites.

But don’t make the same mistakes I did! If you, or someone you know, is currently wearing braces, I want you to have a better experience. And that begins with proper oral hygiene. Today, I’m pleased to share the following intel for brace-faces everywhere:

3M is working with Crest and Oral-B to ensure the necessary information is readily available on how to care for brace-bound teeth. According to certified orthodontic clinical assistant, Cathy Sundvall, there are six key steps that should be followed by brace wearers to ensure a good oral hygiene routine:

1. Rinse: Start by removing loose food particles.
2. Tree brush: Use an interproximal brush to check behind your archwire for any remaining food debris.
3. Water flosser: Use a water flosser to ensure you’ve removed food particles from around the brackets.
4. Floss: Remove any food that’s in between your teeth with floss.
5. Power brush: Brush using a specially-designed electric toothbrush head, which removes plaque in tiny, hard-to-reach spots, like the areas around your braces.
6. Final rinse: Now that you’re done cleaning your teeth, make sure your mouth is fresh and toothpaste-free with a quick rinse.

Not inspired? Consider this – research indicates that a clean mouth prevents various life-threatening diseases like aspiration pneumonia, gum disease and heart disease.

3M has set up a nifty little website that explains the above steps in detail, so you can avail yourself of handy oral hygiene tips and tricks. Best of all, you’ll find the appropriate suggestions for all types of braces, whether you have metal, ceramic or the brand new incognito style. (Hello! Where were incognito braces in 2001? Pfft.)
Brushing with Incognito BracesSo, I have a confession to make: as soon as my braces were off, I literally tuned out the orthodontist as he cautioned me to wear my retainer. Nope, didn’t happen. Didn’t care – didn’t listen. And now 2-3 of my teeth have shifted… and I’m looking into getting braces again. And if/when they do reappear in my life, you can bet I’ll be paying very close attention to my oral hygiene regime. Let’s just say I’ve bookmarked this post.

(Psst – Are your kids about to get braces? Check out www.PaintYourSmile.com which allows them to see what they’re going to look like with braces. Super cool and a fun way to prepare them for their new smile!)

WIN a Ste. Anne’s Culinary Retreat (Value $1,100!)

By

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

Okay, so by now, I know you may be a *little* envious of my recent Culinary Retreat to Ste. Anne’s Spa in Grafton, ON. And trust me, I understand! Voted Canada’s Favourite Spa 2006 – 2013 (Spafinder Readers), the destination spa boasts an invigorating, Old World atmosphere, exceptional spa services and tantalizing menus.

Springtime-at-Ste.-Annes-Spa_thumbMy husband and I celebrated my birthday weekend with two glorious days of serenity, pampering, and most importantly, sumptuous gastronomic delights prepared by Ste. Anne’s talented culinary team. And to top it all off – a private lesson with Pastry Chef Khushroo, the world-renowned chocolatier and confectionery genius. If you happened to miss my posts, you can always check them out here:

Thirty-Six Reasons to Go on a Culinary Adventure
Recipe: Ste. Anne’s Almond Cookies
Gastropost: Ste. Anne’s Spa Dining Room Menu
Ste. Anne’s Spa: The Art of Chocolate

Well, the time has come to stop teasing you and offer up something BIG – you too can experience a Culinary Retreat at Ste. Anne’s! That’s right – one lucky reader will win a Culinary Retreat for Two at Ste. Anne’s Spa in Grafton, ON!

Included in the prize:

Overnight accommodations for two (2) in a beautiful deluxe room at The Main Inn (midweek stay; Mon-Thur)
A 3-hour culinary class (offered at dinner time) at their new culinary facility at Maison Santé
A 30-minute demonstration at Ste. Anne’s Bakery, which specializes in freshly prepared, gluten-free baked goods
$120 in spa allowance for each guest; you may choose from Ste. Anne’s full range of spa treatments
Breakfast for two, a 3-course lunch for two, and afternoon tea for two (see menus here)

For a total value of $1,100! Please note that transportation to/from the spa is not included in this prize, so whether you live near or far, you’ll have to find your own ride. Ste. Anne’s Spa is conveniently located just one hour east of Toronto. Trust me folks, this is a destination spa – worth the visit!

To enter, simply fill the form below with your qualifying entries. Good luck all! …

Read More

Ste. Anne’s Spa: The Art of Chocolate

By

By now, I hope you’ve read up on my Culinary Retreat at Ste. Anne’s Spa. Nestled in a private cottage just a stone’s throw away from the main inn, my husband and I enjoyed the many delights of the property, in addition to a private lesson with their celebrated Pastry Chef Khushroo Khambata.

Ste. Anne's Bakery DemoInterested in learning a few new culinary tips while you’re at Ste. Anne’s Spa? Join Pastry Chef Khushroo on Monday, Wednesday or Friday at the Bakery for a complimentary demonstration. The topics of these demonstrations vary from day-to-day, but could be on anything from moulding chocolates and bonbons, to creating marzipan fruits, to designing artistic sugar creations. On our visit, we made colourful handmade moulded chocolates. …

Read More

Gastropost: Ste. Anne’s Spa Dining Room Menu

By

Indulge without the guilt; as a Canadian health spa, Ste. Anne’s believes in nourishing the body on all levels.

My recently Culinary Retreat at Ste. Anne’s Spa in Grafton, ON was everything I could have imagined, and more. Nestled in a private cottage just a stone’s throw away from the main inn, my husband and I enjoyed the many delights of Ste. Anne’s Spa, in addition to a private lesson with their celebrated Pastry Chef Khushroo Khambata. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing my experience – everything from the accommodations to our chocolate-making triumph. Today’s entry is a gastropost dedicated to the sumptuous delights you’ll find at the main dining room.

Ste. Anne’s is an all-inclusive destination spa; whether you choose a day or overnight getaway, your stay will include at the minimum two culinary experiences in their dining room. For overnight guests, your stay includes a 4-course dinner, breakfast, 3-course lunch and afternoon tea.

“Relaxation would not be complete without taking care of the great appetite that develops during your stay at the spa. We have gone to great lengths to put together a dining experience that is both healthy and wholesome. You will notice that we don’t discuss calories or fat content on our menus. If your requirements are left wanting by our philosophy please feel free to ask the chef to prepare a special meal. The dress code in the dining room is very casual, be yourself, and be relaxed!

Our culinary team considers the healing powers of food for the body and soul when creating Ste. Anne’s breakfast, lunch and dinner menus. Specifically designed to intrigue and delight, each dish generates a strong response from guests who appreciate the creativity while taking comfort in knowing that every ingredient is hand-selected after thorough consideration.”

Upon arriving at the spa, we were treated to the most delightful afternoon tea.

I highly recommend the Sampler Plate, which achieves the perfect balance between sweet and savoury. All baked goods are prepared fresh daily by Ste. Anne’s gluten free bakery, and although the menu has been created for simplicity, guests can feel free to choose their favourite items for a special, personalized plate.

Above: Smoked salmon pinwheel with a spinach flavoured wrap, fresh sprouts, herb and honey mustard; open-faced cucumber sandwich with sundried tomato cream cheese and fresh chopped herbs, served with havarti and old orange cheddar cheese, crackers and dried cranberries. …

Read More

Recipe: Ste. Anne’s Almond Cookies

By

Friends, I’m off to the spa for two glorious days! And since I’ll be spending most of Monday morning at a private baking lesson with Ste. Anne’s Pastry Chef Khushroo Khambata, I thought it was only polite to share his recipe for Almond Cookies. These addictive treats are easy to make, chewy and flavourful – as well as being gluten and sugar free (win-win-win!). I’m very much looking forward to my mini vacation!

2 1/2 cups Almond flour – 1 cup Raisins – 1 cup Walnuts – 1 cup Unsweetened coconut – 1 cup Chocolate chips – 1 cup Pecan chopped – 1 cup Currants – 1/2 cup Melted butter – 2 cups Honey – 3 Eggs – 2 tsp Baking soda – 1/3 tsp Salt – 4 tsp Almond extract – 1 pinch Cinnamon – 1 pinch Clove

Preheat oven to 300ºF. Mix together the melted butter and honey. Mix in one egg at a time until combined. In a separate bowl, combine the almond flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon and cloves. Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients together. Stir in raisins, walnuts, coconut, chocolate chips, pecans and currants. Drop by teaspoon onto parchment lined baking tray, slightly flattening cookies with fork. Baking for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Ste. Anne’s Spa Bakery specializes in freshly prepared, gluten-free baked goods. Click here for more information.

Thirty-Six Reasons to Go on a Culinary Adventure

By

There are two things in life you simply can’t escape: taxes, and getting old.

(Except if you’re Brad Pitt in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, in which case you’re really just trying to avoid the tax man while growing “young” into a hot babe. Side note – Brad Pitt, circa 2004, was what fantasies were made of.)

Alas, I am growing old… but I’m not old just yet. It’s my 36th birthday this Sunday! Now I’m not one to have over-the-top celebrations, per se… but I do like to do something simple and special to acknowledge the day. Of course, I don’t think I’ll ever beat my 35th birthday, when I met Oprah Winfrey (<< shameless photo plug), but I’ve got something amazing lined up just the same.

As a guest of Ste. Anne’s Spa in Grafton, Ontario – I will be embarking on a healing weekend of rest, relaxation and culinary delights. Voted Canada’s Favourite Spa 2006 – 2013 (Spafinder Readers), the destination spa boasts an invigorating, Old World atmosphere, exceptional spa services and tantalizing menus.

Picture it: The Main Inn and Ontario spa cottages are nestled across over 400 acres of scenic, rolling countryside; each uniquely appointed accommodation features its own style and amenities. More than 35 rejuvenating spa treatments revitalize and soothe the senses while the culinary team creates scrumptious cuisine which delights the palette. Now I *could* go through all the amazing spa treatments that Ste. Anne’s offers, but really, you can simply check them out here. And while I’m very much looking forward to a weekend of pampering, what I’m most excited about is the Culinary Retreat that my husband and I will be treated to. …

Read More

Give the Gift of Relaxation: Stillwater Spa

By

Ah, Mother’s Day. When I was young, it was an opportunity to sum up a whole year’s worth of love and gratitude neatly packaged in the form of a homemade card or breakfast in bed. Often, the cards were messy and misspelled, and the breakfast was inedible… but it was the thought that counted. And now, as an adult (and a mom of two) I understand just how much mothers do – every minute, every day – to ensure that their children are blanketed with love, care and happiness. I realize that we celebrate our mothers once every 365 days… to acknowledge their lifetime of servitude.

Be nice to your mom.

Do one, really-really-really special thing for her this Mother’s Day: Make a promise to honour her more than once a year. To say thank you; to show gratitude, to give love.

Then, spoil her with chocolate. And flowers. And time to herself. And you simply must spoil her with a spa day. My recommendation? Stillwater Spa at the Park Hyatt Toronto.

You may remember that we recently visited the Park Hyatt for a staycation, where we enjoyed a large, family-friendly room, delicious in-room dining and a few special surprises that truly made us feel “celebrated”. At the end of the weekend, I felt rested, rejuvenated and ready to take on the world… with one *tiny* regret: that I didn’t make an appointment at the renowned Stillwater Spa.

Recognized among the best spas in Toronto, Stillwater Spa at Park Hyatt Toronto Yorkville is an indulgent escape from urban demands. The full-service downtown Toronto spa features 17 treatment rooms, a couple’s massage room, aqua therapy room, steam room, sauna and whirlpool, and tea lounge for relaxing before and after Stillwater Spa treatments. Stillwater Spa uses innovative, trendsetting products to achieve well being and bestow tranquility.

And, they happen to share my vision of celebrating mothers for more than one day….

Read More