Health + Wellness

Healing and hope

How cryotherapy can support brain cancer recovery Article by Julie Royce Humans have used cold temperatures for therapeutic, health and sporting recovery purposes for centuries, according to the National Library of Medicine. The ancient Egyptians and Hippocrates recognized the therapeutic benefits of cryotherapy. The use of cold temperatures between -200 and -300 degrees Fahrenheit includes techniques such as ice application, cold-water immersion and cold-air exposure.  "Cryo instantly makes...

Life + Culture

Raasin in the Sun

Local nonprofit builds unity and beautifies Austin Article by Julie Royce The mission of Austin nonprofit Raasin in the Sun is to transform the east side through art, environmental restoration and community engagement. Founder Raasin McIntosh saw how many of the neighborhood homes, alleys and communal green spaces were falling into disrepair. She was determined to fix the problem. "We started with neighborhood cleanups initially," McIntosh said. "When we first began, we would go from door to...

Food + Beverage

Saving Austin landmarks

Local restaurateur has made it his mission Article and Photography by Julie Royce If you’ve driven down North Burnet Road recently, you’ll notice that much of it has changed in the last decade. Where The Frisco once stood, with its large hamburger marquis, is a newly opened housing complex. The mini golf spot, known as Putt Putt, where neighborhood families spent their weekends, is now the combination bar and dog park Yard Bar. Local restaurateur Kelly Chappell is doing his part to preserve...

Life + Culture

Valentine’s Day ideas

Impress your loved one with these experiences Article by Julie Royce This year, Valentine's Day falls on a Friday, so if you haven't made dinner reservations yet, your restaurant of choice might already be booked.  Don't worry, though. This list of experiences will undoubtedly impress your significant other.  Silent disco party at The Belmont For $20 a ticket, take your partner to a Valentine's Day silent disco party at The Belmont, 305 W. Sixth Street, from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.  It's not...

Sports + Recreation

Save Muny

The legacy and future of Lions Municipal Golf Course Article by Willie Cochran An expanse of green tucked into the heart of Austin, Lions Municipal Golf Course—or "Muny," as it is affectionately called—has been a cherished community cornerstone for over a century. Behind its rolling fairways and majestic oak trees lies a story of history, resilience and community that supporters say embodies the very spirit of Austin. Muny’s legacy began with its establishment in 1924 as Austin’s first public...

Home + Design

Prepare your Central Texas yard for winter

With sweltering heat behind us, it’s time to prune your garden to withstand colder temps Article by Rodney Stoutenger | Photography by Flora Landcape Studio Fall pruning  Encourage spring growth : Removing dead or damaged branches allows plants to focus on new growth when spring arrives. Prevent disease : Cutting back diseased branches reduces the risk of pathogens that can thrive in cool, moist conditions. Spotting distinct discolored spots or patterns on foliage is a good...

Arts + Culture

Pieces to Purpose

Empowering women writers one chapter at a time Article by Julie Royce | Photography by Drew Elaine As a young child, Rebecca was often mocked by her classmates and teachers. They didn't know about the conditions she and her siblings were subjected to at home. She grew up in fear and abject poverty. Her story is one of 17 chapters in the book Pieces to Purpose, which launched last month. The book shares how each author found purpose through adversity. The goal is to inspire readers to develop...

Health + Wellness

Alternative medical treatments

Locals seek ketamine therapy to improve mental health Article and Photography by Julie Royce Using ketamine-assisted therapy to treat chronic mental health issues has become increasingly popular across the nation, according to the nonprofit American Society of Ketamine Physicians.  Ketamine is the only legal psychedelic medication available to mental health providers to treat emotional distress, the nonprofit reports, and already, thousands of Austin residents have explored this alternative...

Health + Wellness

The future of healthcare

Concierge nursing services bridge a gap for locals Article by Julie Royce | Photography by Abby Pennington Austin resident Michelle Solomon had a lot of questions and apprehension about administering the hormone injections for the fertility treatments she was taking in order to conceive. She sought out at-home assistance to help guide her during this journey.  "Nurse Tania personalizes the experience to help you reach your goals,” Solomon said. “For me, that goal was to conceive, and her...

Fitness

Getting stronger

Is a gym worthwhile? One member’s take on HIT Athletic Article by Lisa Ogle | Photography by HIT Athletic As a former group fitness instructor, Ximena’s first order of business after moving from Peru to Austin during the pandemic was to find a gym. She started with a three-day trial at HIT Athletic in North Austin. After her first group class, she was sold, even in spite of the 20-minute drive from her home. “It was a small price to pay for what has truly been a worthwhile experience,”...