Above: Photography by Julia D’Agostino
Hi there! I write a lifestyle blog called Lemon Stripes (lemonstripes.com) where I share my adventures as a local mom through weeknight recipes, easy outfits, wellness tips and more. My husband Anel and I moved from Manhattan to Stamford in 2015 because we were looking for a change from city life and Anel had a dream to open a fitness studio in Greenwich (he recently made it a reality #proudwife).
While we were nervous to make the big move to the ‘burbs, we are so glad we chose to raise our 18-month old daughter, Amalia, here. We’ve found a great community of friends (many of whom live right here in New Canaan and Darien) and feel totally supported both as parents and entrepreneurs.
Before I became a mom I spent years working in the wellness industry, so taking care of our health has always been a priority for both of us. And I admit, I was pretty worried that we wouldn’t be able to find the healthy restaurants or wellness treatments we had access to in the city. I was happily surprised to find that I was very wrong.
And now, it’s a new year — the perfect time to reset. (Yes, I tend to indulge during the holidays who doesn’t?). With a refreshed outlook on wellness, I’d like to share a few of my favorite local healthy options Anyone up for a detox?
Organika, New Canaan I was so excited when Organika opened in New Canaan because I’m always looking for a great place to eat a healthy and delicious lunch (WiFi, too). Be sure to try the buffalo cauliflower wrap and Mediterranean bowl. organikact.com
Countdown Fitness, Greenwich I have to include Anel’s personal training business on this list for obvious reasons, but I really do believe that he’s the best trainer in Fairfield County. Get on his waitlist or work out with one of his trainers in Greenwich or New Canaan. (I train with Meredith and she’s totally changed my body.) The slow burn approach to training and weekly 30-minute sessions are pure torture (in the absolute best way possible, of course). countdownfit.com
Green & Tonic, New Canaan I’ve been going to Green & Tonic for organic juices, smoothies and grab-and-go meals since I moved to Stamford. It’s a staple because it’s consistent, fresh, organic and so easy. I like to stock my fridge with their chickpea rotini bowl and green juices. So good. greenandtonic.com
Inner Light Wellness, Darien I was skeptical about infrared saunas until I started going to Inner Light. Whenever I feel like I’m coming down with a cold or if I’m just feeling off, a quick 25-minute express session perks me right up. Plus the space is beautiful and they sell so many fun things like gorgeous crystals, candles, face masks and other natural beauty products. innerlight-wellness.com
Indigo Acupuncture, Stamford I’ve been seeing Sarah weekly for almost two years and she’s truly changed my life. She helps me with everything from headaches to insomnia to back pain. She specializes in women dealing with infertility and issues with pregnancy. She also happens to be one of the sweetest people I know. indigocacu.com