Fitness

Sweat Smarter

At HOTWORX, infrared heat is the secret to faster recovery and workout results Article by Becca Abramson | Photography by Rae McPherson Creative Unlike typical gyms where members sweat it out in a standard room or studio, HOTWORX is unique in its approach: all workouts take place in a large infrared sauna that can accommodate up to three people. Inside, infrared heat penetrates the skin at a deeper cellular level, helping to detoxify the body, enhance metabolism, and promote healing. “People...

Health + Wellness

Winter's Wisdom

Holistic health practitioner Corbin Chase on finding balance and introspection in nature’s cold embrace Article by Corbin Chase Seasonal depression, especially in the Northeast, can stem from losing our identity within nature: we forget that we are one with the earth and that the seasons exist not only for the health of the planet but also for our own well-being. A simple way to navigate Maine’s long winter is to reconnect with the natural rhythms and healing qualities inherent in this season...

Fitness

Living Boldly

Bay Club Fitness owner Tracy Argondizza leads with heart while building wellness, community, and connection on the peninsula Article by Becca Abramson | Photography by Lauren Lear Tracy Argondizza doesn’t just believe in her mantra, Who has time for maybe? —she lives it every day. From her early career in the Navy to running one of Portland’s most beloved boutique fitness centers, Argondizza’s life has been a masterclass in seizing opportunity and staying true to her passions. While her story...

Health + Wellness

Refill, Reuse, Repeat

Expert tips from GoGo Refill founder Laura Marston on eliminating single-use products in the home Article by Becca Abramson Nearly ten years ago, Laura Marston made a New Year’s resolution to stop buying single-use water bottles. “One, why am I buying water? And two, why am I making this trash that’s not necessary?” she remembers thinking. “I started learning about recycling and about plastic in the environment, and that was my gateway to discovering how toxic it is for marine life, for birds...

Food + Beverage

Shroom Shield

LB Kitchen's wellness latte is a supercharged swap for your morning coffee Article and Photography by LB Kitchen "We love mushroom powders for the body and mind benefits," says Bryna Gootkind of LB Kitchen. "Plus, raw cacao is rich in antioxidants, magnesium, and calcium. What better way to boost your immune system during the colder months than with a warm, chocolatey drink with functional ingredients?" Gootkind recommends reaching for Fermensch Kombucha's Adaptogentic Mushroom Dust, made with...

Life + Culture

Building Bridges

How our partners are stepping up to support students, artists, and future leaders in the community Article by Becca Abramson All across Portland, businesses are stepping up to make a difference. Between volunteering and supporting young talent, these local professionals are not only expressing their values but also fostering collaboration and empowering future leaders. Here’s how they’re giving back. Portland Trust Company The Locker Project is a local nonprofit that partners with...

Food + Beverage

A Slice of Tradition

Behind the scenes at Two Fat Cats Bakery, where teamwork and passion power Portland's holiday treats Article by Becca Abramson | Photography by courtesy of Two Fat Cats What does it take to prepare 2,000 pies for Thanksgiving and another 1,000 just a few weeks later for the holidays? An incredible team, plenty of freezer space, and hundreds of baking hours. “Holiday production at Two Fat Cats is a pretty big lift, but we’ve been doing it for so long that it’s a well-oiled machine,” says Stacy...

Home + Design

Deck the Halls

Woodland glam is this year's trending holiday aesthetic—here's how to embrace it in your home Article by Allison Frazier Oldham | Photography by Lauren Lear One of the best places to introduce seasonal charm into your home is on the fireplace mantel: it’s the heart of the gathering room, and with just a few thoughtful touches it can set the tone for your entire space. This year, the trend that’s stealing the show is woodland glam—a cozy, magical blend of nature-inspired elements with a touch...

Life + Culture

Festive Finds

Unwrap the best gift ideas of the season from our favorite Maine businesses Article by Becca Abramson Get ready to celebrate the season with our holiday gift guide, featuring thoughtfully curated items in three delightful categories: health and wellness, home and decor, and the vibrant spirit of Portland. Whether you're searching for a wellness boost to get through the winter, charming home accents to brighten up any space, or unique treasures that capture the essence of our town, this guide...

Food + Beverage

Raise a Glass

Old Port Wine Merchants manager Erin Hadwen shares her favorite Thanksgiving pairings Article by Erin Hadwen A Sparkling Wine We love to start our Thanksgiving meal with sparkling wine—it's festive, fun, and gets the party started. We recommend Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs, which is made in the traditional methode champenoise using Chardonnay grapes. It's lightly toasted with sharp acidity. Plus, the owner and winemaker, Hugh Davies, is a Bowdoin grad!   A Real Champagne For the...