We all have THAT friend. The one who never appears tired or disheveled, whose skin appears to glow, who even with kids and a multitude of commitments never appears harried or hurried. Sometimes you just have to call that friend and ask, "How do you do it?" Which is exactly what I did .
In a funny twist of coincidences I have known Julie Bernarde since the birth of my first daughter. If you ever purchased a Medela Breast Pump, the model on the product box was none other than my husband's own high school friend! Since all of Ron's friends were having babies around the same time, we humorously appreciated a local, admired alum had achieved national fame. Besides a successful modeling career Julie also has gifts as a make-up artist and extensive knowledge of skincare as a certified esthetician. In addition she is a busy mom of 3 teenagers, two twin sons who are sophomores and a daughter who is a senior at Slinger High School. When I finally contacted her and asked for her recommendations for skincare she invited me to her new wellness spa in Hartford. Although I was aware of her talents I did not realize the extent of the investment she has made into her belief and love for living with vitality.
Located directly on Main Street, just north of the Mineshaft. Lotus Be Well brings simple elegance and warmth to the developing Hartford business district. The interior is exquisitely decorated although Julie is quick to point out the beautiful fixtures, furniture and accessories are casual and affordable, many from IKEA. They are in the planning stages of hosting spa retreats or parties, Organize a group of friends and select amenities from their detoxification and wellness services, nutritional counseling, beauty services or from their bioenergetic services. Their offerings are immense which is why this business consists of 4 friends and colleagues who have brought together their individualized interests and talents.
I indulged in the 75 minute rejuvenating facial; and "rejuvenating" is hardly an exaggeration. Julie applies an enzymatic mask, steam, and anti-aging serums in consecutive layers that leaves your face feeling polished and refreshed. In addition she provides a facial, arm, hand and foot massage! A paraffin hand bath with hand warmers also accompanies the facial. Throughout the facial you rest on the highly acclaimed Biomat designed to reduce tension and create a sense of ease. Julie reports that having suffered from back pain for years after the birth of her children, the Biomat has dramatically resolved her back issues. Products are all natural and organic and as a wellness spa they have researched extensively to select products with wholesome ingredients. Trish Hoehn is skilled in the practice of BioEnergetics, (Trish has worked closely and studied with Karen Urbanek of Karen's Energy.) She is also a Holistic Occupational Therapist. Elizabeth Palmer is the resident Nutritionist and Behavioral Wellness Educator who also does private cooking classes and will even revamp your fridge and food pantry. Teresa Lopez is an LPN specializing in Detoxification including lymphatic decongestion and medicupping. Their offerings are extensive and embrace the fact Lotus Be Well is a multi-purpose (physical, behavioral, spiritual) wellness spa rather than a medical spa.
I love sharing stories of inspiration from small Wisconsin towns. Women who have a vision or goal and through mutual support from friends create their own reality. Even better when this reality serves to improve the health of a community. Both men and women will find a variety of services that will add vitality to their daily life. Thank you Julie for your expertise and warm hospitality. For more information please visit the Lotus Be Well website: www.lotusbewell.com/services.html
Read more about the background of these phenomenal women at www.lotusbewell.com/about.html Thank you for reading!