Tag: health and wellness

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri Feb. 9 – 15, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

Valentine’s Day is this weekend, and if you want to keep soaking up the love around this holiday, there’s plenty of opportunities this week. From a daddy daughter spa night, to multiple galentine’s events, craft events, and much more. Find even more Valentine’s Day events perfect for couples, friends, or families in this special Valentine’s Day post.

Pro tip: sometimes events get canceled or rescheduled, so if you’re making a special trip, or it’s a long drive, double check with the event venue before heading out!

Did I miss an event? Tag me on Facebook or Instagram and I can share the event in my stories.

Monday, Feb. 9
Washington Green Spa Wellness is hosting a Daddy Daughter Spa Night. The 45-minute experience includes foot soak, scrub + foot massage, co-fin hand treatment + hand and arm massage, hot cocoa + snack cup, plus a single stem rose to take home.
Reserve your spot.

Wednesday, Feb. 11
Oak and Front Kitchen + Bar in Washington is having a Galentine’s Night from 4:30-9 p.m. Sip some wine or your favorite cocktail and enjoy a dessert board with your gals.
Find out more.

Wednesday, Feb. 11-Saturday, Feb. 14
Are you ready to get married, but don’t want to plan a wedding? Wish there was a Vegas-style ceremony option right here in Franklin County? For a limited time, there is. The Yes, a Valentine’s Day Wedding event is happening for a few days at the Washington Expo Center. The details have been handled, all you have to do is walk down the aisle and say “I do.”
Learn more.

Thursday, Feb. 12
The Union Branch of the Scenic Regional Library will share Love Letters of the Presidents. This hour long program will feature readings from love letters written by American Presidents.
Register.

Thursday, Feb. 12
Looking for a girls night out? Sip on fun Valentine’s themed drinks at the Galentine’s Day Pop-Up Bar at Serendipity Slush Co. in Washington. There are two seating times available for this special event: from 5-7 p.m. and 7:30-9:30 p.m.
Get more info.

Thursday, Feb. 12 & Sunday, Feb. 15
Want to up your cocktail-making game? Then head to Eight Nine Eight Cigar Bar & Lounge in Washington for the Mixology 101 classes. Attendees will learn to make the number one selling cocktail, the Eight Nine Eight Old Fashioned, as well as an Espresso Martini, and a Strawberry Mojito.
Sign up.

Thursday, Feb.12
HOM Healing Center in Pacific is having a Galentine’s event that will feature mini facials, massages, food, and drinks.
Learn more.

Thursday, Feb. 12
The Washington Public Library’s “crafternoon” event is focused on creating a Valentine’s themed craft. All supplies will be provided.
Get more info.

Thursday, Feb. 12
Stop by the newest BB Coffee Lab location on its opening day, from 6 a.m.-6 p.m.
Learn more.

Friday, Feb. 13
Present Moment Yoga in Washington is hosting an interactive workshop, led by Dr. Ike who will introduce attendees to the practice of healing qi gong, an ancient Chinese health practice! Qi gong involves slow movements and breath work. Attendees will be invited to participate in the movements, so please wear comfortable clothing.
Register.

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Friday, Feb. 13
Attend a succulent potting bar class with a twist at the plant and sip galentine’s event at Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist. Tickets are $35 and include a free glass of wine, with additional glasses of wine available for $5.
Reserve your spot.

Friday, Feb. 13
Mangia Bella at Elijah McLeans in Washington is hosting a galentine’s night. Expect cocktails, bites, and lots of cozy, galentine’s vibes.
Find out more.

Friday, Feb. 13
Enjoy a galentine’s day event with a fun, floral twist at the Main Street Studio in downtown Washington. This Build-An-Arrangement Night is hosted by Joyful Blooms and is a hands-on floral design experience that’s the perfect way to celebrate friendship, creativity, and a beautiful night out together.
Find out more.

Friday, Feb. 13
The Union Community Center is hosting a Gather and Grow Open House, free to the public. The event is from 8-10 a.m. and attendees can find information on aging ahead senior center meals and activities, event and party rental, community programs, and volunteer opportunities at the center.
RSVP to attend.

Friday, Feb. 13 & Saturday, Feb. 14
If you’re looking for a spooky Valentine’s event, head to Terror on Route 66 in Sullivan for Cupid’s Nightmare: A Valentine’s Haunted House.
Get times and ticket info.

Comic book themed colorful image of a man and woman kissing
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Saturday, Feb. 14
The Washington Coffee Shop will have live music for Valentine’s Day. Enjoy the sounds of singer Elayna Cusano from 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Get more info.

Saturday, Feb. 14
The Fraternal Order of Eagles in Sullivan is hosting a Valentine’s event called Denim, Diamonds, and Dancing. The event will feature live music by Justin Bizzle and lots of dancing.
More details.

Sunday, Feb. 15
Keep the galentine fun going at the Galeninte’s Bento Box Decorating event at Thrive Studio & Events in Sullivan. Attendees will frost and decorate their own Valentine’s themed bento cake. Cost is $30, with all supplies provided.
Find out more.

Road Trippin’

Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.

Multiple days and times
Looking for a fun and winter-themed experience? Noboleis Vineyards in Augusta is featuring Winter Wine-derland Igloos this winter season. These private spaces feature cozy blankets, twinkling lights, and views of the vineyard.
Get pricing and more info.

Friday, Feb. 13
Edelweiss Winery & Events in Hermann is hosting a Galentine’s celebration you won’t forget. The “Nowhere to Wear This” themed event means attendees can rock those sparkly outfits that have been hanging out at the back of the closet for way too long.
Get more info.

Friday, Feb. 13 & Saturday, Feb. 14
Brookdale Farms in Eureka is having a Valentine’s dinner event fit for a fairy tale. The Carriages & Candlelight event will feature a romantic, candlelit dinner experience with intimate seating, live instrumental music, a catered dinner, professional photo moments, and an open bar, and carriage rides throughout the evening.
Find tickets.

Friday, Feb. 13
St. James Winery is hosting a special Valentine’s Dinner and facility tour. Attendees will enjoy a four-course culinary experience paired with specially selected wine or beer, crafted to elevate every bite. Your evening includes an intimate guided tour where you’ll learn about the winemaking process, enjoy the ambiance, and savor each course as the night unfolds. Let the atmosphere, the pairings, and the company sweep you away.
See the menu and buy tickets.

Have a public event coming up? Submit your event details like time, location, and cost to attend. Be sure to include your website and social media details so I can help spread the word about your event!

Posted in News and Features

My Experience Working With Your Accountability Bestie

Posted on by Amanda

Today’s post is a bit of a departure from my usual content, but I believe there’s power in sharing our personal experiences – both our triumphs and setbacks. So, if you’ll allow me some vulnerability, I’d love to share how I recently overcame a few struggles.

For roughly five years I worked out at least five days a week without fail. Most of those workouts consisted of HIIT running, light resistance training, dancing, and hiking. However, numerous life changes began to compound about two years ago and I let my work outs slip, and my nutrition followed suit.

Before I knew it, I’d gained weight. Although I would still workout during this period, I wasn’t consistent and when it comes to being in fit, I’ve found consistency is the key. I thought if I just “started” my old routine again, I’d bounce right back, but the saying “what got you here won’t get you there” is popular for a reason.

Trying to force my way into prior rhythms and plans just wasn’t working, which made me feel like a failure, which made me give up, which made my progress stall. It was a vicious cycle and I spent about 18 months spinning my wheels. I felt as though I’d lost an essential part of myself and I wasn’t sure how to find me again.

After those starts and stops with trying to get back into shape, I realized I needed a different approach. And part of that approach meant that I couldn’t do this all on my own. In late summer I made the decision to work with an accountability coach to help me get back on track with my fitness and nutrition. From late July through late October, I worked with Sam Hyndrich owner of Your Accountability Bestie. 

I feel like I have my “sparkle” back again!

Although it wasn’t clear exactly how, when, or where I’d lost me, during my first client meeting with Sam, I knew I’d made the right decision because through her words and demeanor in that initial meeting, it was clear that she saw the real me. The version of me that had gotten buried somewhere along the line and believed my dreams and goals should come second, third, or even dead last, to every day life stuff (laundry, house, taking care of others).

I chose to work with Sam because of how she made me feel seen from the very beginning, and because I just had a gut feeling that she’d be able to help me find the hole in my plans that were keeping me stuck.

I also knew going into the three month block of working with her that I’d be challenged to give up my excuses, to put in work, and to stay committed to myself. She created workout and meal plans that worked with my lifestyle and interests, since much of my movement centered around things I love to do like dance classes and going on HIIT runs. Sam also challenged me to increase my protein intake, which helped me to maintain a higher level of energy daily and not get cranky in the afternoons (if I’m hangry you better watch out!)

I’m not at my goal weight yet, but I enjoy getting dressed up again and like what I see in the mirror (and yes, I know I should’ve closed the closet door before taking this selfie *facepalm*)

After one month of working with her, I lost close to ten pounds and several inches, but there was something even greater that I lost: my desire to put other people’s needs above my own. That’s not to say I stopped caring for others, but rather, I made sure I filled my cup first. 

As our relationship grew, during our regular client check-ins, Sam would ask me to look a bit deeper within, encouraging me to share not only my wins with her, but also what I was struggling with. During these moments I started to look at other aspects of my life, like personal and professional goals that I’d been toying with but for one reason or another, they kept making their way to the backburner. 

One of those goals was related to my writing career and I’m happy to report that I’m working on some creative goals I abandoned years ago, as well as refining my focus on this website, which will go into effect in January!

I still have a ways to go toward reaching my fitness and personal/professional goals. Because she’s a coach that works with clients across a broad spectrum of goals – from personal, fitness, business, relationship, and more – I am continuing to work with Sam in a professional capacity to help me stay accountable, reach for bigger goals, and refine plans when needed.

On a recent trip to Idaho, my husband and I hiked up Mineral Ridge, a 3 mile loop with a pretty significant elevation gain. It was challenging since I hadn’t done a hike like this in over five years. When I got to the top I was so proud of myself, and the first person I wanted to share my achievement with was Sam, so of course I texted her this selfie 🙂

If you’re ready to make changes, consider working with Sam to help you get where you want to go faster. And, I know cost can be a barrier for many, however, without giving away the exact pricing structure, I will say that the three-month cost for working with her breaks down to being roughly the same as going out for a latte and sweet treat a few times a week and my friend, ain’t no coffee shop treat gonna make you feel as good as investing in YOU.

Find out more about Sam on Facebook, Instagram, and her website.

Posted in Advertorial Feature

Focus on Your Health and Wellness at Soul Refresh in Downtown Washington

Posted on by Amanda

Although it may be hard to believe considering the amount of food reviews I share, I am actually quite into health and wellness. And earlier this year, I was excited to see a new business called Soul Refresh open its doors in downtown Washington, at 11 W. Main St.

The health and wellness-based business focuses on a number of services that are designed to help people feel their best by aiding the body in a variety of ways, from improving the immune system and easing pain to reducing inflammation and toxins that have accumulated in the body. 

Soul Refresh is owned by Ryann and Jordan Greenhoff. After the couple spent time at a similar business owned by their brother and sister-in-law in Marshall, MN., it made them realize that there was an opportunity to bring some of those same beneficial wellness therapies to the Washington community. 

Although her prior professional background was in accounting, Jordan has always had an interest in pursuing alternative ways of treating the body.

“I’ve always been health conscious and interested in other means of health and healing.” Jordan says.

Jordan’s natural interest in alternative means of maintaining health and wellness can be seen in the four services offered at Soul Refresh – cold plunge, ionic foot detox, infrared sauna, and red light therapy. Over the past several years the internet, and social media in particular, has showcased the benefits of these types of wellness treatments. And now, residents in Washington as well as those living in its surrounding communities, can have access to these cutting edge services, simply by taking a visit to a small, locally-owned business.

Services

Since cold is something many people tend to actively avoid, it may seem counterintuitive to pay to put yourself into a tub of cold water. If you’re not familiar with the experience, some of the benefits of briefly submerging your body in a cold plunge tub include resetting your nervous system, improving your mental focus, and supporting the immune system.

Cold plunge tub. Photo credit: Soul Refresh

An ionic foot detox service at Soul Refresh consists of the guest sitting in a comfortable chair, which comes with a massage function, and placing your feet in a small tub of water that contains Celtic sea salt. The salt works with the foot tub’s ionic function to create positive and negative ions that work together to remove impurities and toxins from the body through the feet. Although the process starts with clear water, it will change color and consistency throughout the session, depending on the type of toxins that are pulled from the body.

Ionic foot detox. Photo credit: Soul Refresh

Typically when you think of a sauna experience, you may envision a very hot environment that’s either dry or steamy, and designed to make you sweat out impurities during your time in the sauna. However, an infrared sauna provides a different experience, by using infrared light to directly heat the body. This method is more comfortable and effective since the light allows the heat to penetrate deeper into tissues, muscles, and joints. A few of the benefits of using an infrared sauna include improved circulation, easing pain in sore joints and muscles, and helping the body to flush toxins through sweating. 

Infrared sauna. Photo credit: Soul Refresh

Additionally, there’s a Himalayan salt sauna at the business. When Himalayan salt is used in a sauna, it can improve respiratory conditions by breaking up congestion, help draw out toxins, balance the skin’s pH, and reduce stress through the release of negative ions from the salt. 

Himalayan salt sauna. Photo credit: Soul Refresh

With its ability to improve your skin, hair, cognitive health, and reduce inflammation, red light therapy sessions at Soul Refresh are completely non-invasive and consist of guests relaxing and laying down for up to 20 minutes. The full-body red light therapy session delivers gentle, low-level wavelengths of red and near-infrared light that promote cellular regeneration, reduce pain, and restore the skin’s natural glow. 

Red light therapy. Photo credit: Soul Refresh

Of course, all the wellness therapies at Soul Refresh are most effective when used regularly, and the business’s pricing model is reflective of that, with single session prices as well as package pricing offered at discounted rates, ranging from packages that include three or up to 20 sessions. And all of the packages are “mix and match” meaning guests can choose which services they wish to receive at each visit.

If interested in learning more, visit the business’s website, or book a service online.