Residing in Willowbrook for decades, Nutrition House provides health and wellness products for the whole family.
Whether you’re an athlete looking to up your performance, parents curious about natural products for your kiddos, or just a curious mind wanting to learn more about overall health and wellness, there’s something for everyone. Nutrition House offers a broad range of vitamins and supplements for every member of your family, along with an extensive selection of all-natural shampoos, deodorants, and skincare.
As if that wasn’t enough, Nutrition House staff are fluent in multiple languages reflecting our multicultural community and offer a monthly customer appreciation day, and seniors discount.
Be sure to follow them on Instagram and Facebook for all things healthy and exciting!
Okay, so, maybe 2021 isn’t looking that different compared to 2020, but, if you can’t change your circumstances, change your outlook! Don’t doubt the power of positivity.
We’ve put together a few simple suggestions to help you look on the bright side, feel your best, and start the new year off on the right foot with the help of Willowbrook’s retailers!
CHANGE UP YOUR LOOK
They say a person who cuts their hair is about to change the world. A new look may be just what you need to feel refreshed and recharged for the new year. Whether it’s a bold chop, a new colour, or just a trim and toner making time for yourself is a great way to spend an afternoon and make a positive change.
If you’re not ready for a new cut and colour, try talking to a stylist about different ways to style your hair—like changing your part, adding a funky accessory, or learning a quick up-do—and learn more about styling products that can help you achieve a selfie-worthy look in no time.
All activity is good activity. So, while you may have big dreams of hitting the gym on a regular basis or finding the self-discipline to regularly go for a run, it’s important to set realistic goals and celebrate small victories. Get up and go for a quick walk before you have a cup of coffee, take the stairs when you get the chance, or put your laundry away piece by piece to get closer to hitting your daily goal of 10,000 steps.
That being said, treat yourself to some comfy new kicks from Sport Chek to help you stay on track, or a pair of leggings from lululemon that let you stretch and move with ease. Don’t worry—we won’t tell anyone if you wear them to work, too.
HYDRATE
No, seriously. Drinking more water has countless benefits to both your physical self, like improving your complexion, bettering your digestion, and alleviating headaches, but can also help with memory retention and boosting your mood. Plus, it’s a great excuse to grab a new water bottle that you’ll definitely want to keep within arm’s reach. Sport Chek, Nutrition House and lululemon have a ton of different varieties of water bottles that can help you quench your thirst.
Pssst…a quick tip we learned is to set reminders on our phones to remind us to drink more water!
As we push forward into 2021, keep your glass half full, your eyes on the prize and your mask over your nose.
Send your love and a little gift this holiday season.
We’ve all been there: you find the perfect gift but there’s just no way it will arrive without breaking. Or worse, the cost to ship your gift to loved ones is more than the gift costs in the first place. With holiday parties and social get-togethers on the naughty list, this year more than ever before we’re relying on the mail to arrive in time, and in one piece. So how do you get a great gift that can survive the postal system? We’ve put together five great gifts that are easy to ship and we’re sure your recipient will love.
Make a statement with a new mask We don’t always appreciate the practical gifts until we truly need them but there’s no denying a new mask is a gift you know will be put to good use. With so many options available at Hudson’s Bay, Below The Belt, Blackwell Supply Co. and so many stores, there is truly a design or pattern for everyone on your holiday shopping list. Plus, masks are small and lightweight making them an easy choice to ship to your loved ones—no matter how near or far they may be.
Warm those toes and fingers Unless you’re really, really hot-blooded, or your gift recipient is south of the border, you’re probably starting to bundle up for the winter. And face it, who likes cold toes or numb fingers? The answer is no one. Cozy holiday socks or a chic pair of gloves are a great gift that your loved ones can put to good use instantly. Score some festive patterns or stick with neutrals that go with everything. These comfy classics from Nordstrom Rack won’t break in the mailroom and they won’t cost an arm (or a foot) to send.
Organize Have a person on your list that’s always losing something? Gift them a cute makeup bag from Sephora, jewellery organizer, or pencil case from Coles to keep their essentials together in one place. If you’re feeling extra generous send along with a cute lip balm, stylish bracelet, or fancy pen and pencil set to go with.
Don’t forget the card When in doubt, get the gift you know will be the right size, right colour, and will arrive in one piece—a gift card. In addition to taking the guesswork, and stress, out of gift-giving, a gift card lets your recipient get just what they want. Our Willowbrook gift cards are available in denominations from $10-$500 and they’re accepted by 130 great stores at Willowbrook.
However you’re celebrating, and whoever you’re celebrating with, be kind, be calm, be safe. And don’t forget to check the mail.
2020: it’s a year that’s been full of challenges, surprises, and new opportunities. From changes to how we work and celebrate, the global COVID-19 pandemic has impacted us all in ways we could have never predicted. But despite the stresses and challenges, COVID has also created new opportunities.
“This situation has pushed us to reinvent the ordinary,” says Chan Hon Goh, Director of the Goh Ballet Academy and Youth Company Canada, Artistic Director of the Global Dance Challenge, and former Principal Dancer of The National Ballet of Canada.
Like many other industries and businesses, ballet and the performing arts have been forced to adapt to a world of social distancing and virtual events as a result of the current COVID-19 pandemic.
“We had to do something virtually because of the circumstances. Any other year there would be no way we could film this given our time restraints and resources. It just wouldn’t have worked.”
In non-COVID years, Goh Ballet would hold auditions for The Nutcracker—an annual holiday classic—in May. This year, May saw much of the world in a lockdown facing unknown circumstances and new challenges, along with new opportunities.
“We were waiting and hoping for good news in the spring and were optimistic but cautious. Ultimately, we made the decisions not to hold live shows this year.”
But despite the decision to suspend live performances, the determination to create a show persisted.
“The desire to perform doesn’t go away” notes Goh, “The situation right now is only temporary.”
In September, Goh and her artistic team and cast began rehearsing, adhering to a tight schedule and COVID-19 restrictions, including social distancing, and reducing a usual cast of over 250 to just 60 individuals.
“The Nutcracker is an annual favourite but there are countless versions of it out there and they’re well done. We wanted to do something more compelling and closer to home” says Goh.
The original, “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” is a story written in 1816 by Prussian author E. T. A. Hoffmann, and in 1892, the Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and choreographers Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov turned Alexandre Dumas’s adaptation of the story into the ballet The Nutcracker.
This Ballet has become a winter holiday classic performed by dancers around the world for decades, and adapted as a live-action film on numerous occasions, most recently in 2018.
“Our version takes place in the present, but also jumps to the nostalgia of the past, and provide hopes to the future” Goh says. “When you’re filming something, you’re under a magnifying glass.. Our cast has been so dedicated, and they’ve worked really hard to prepare.”
Goh herself has been working tirelessly alongside her cast, not only as the film’s Executive Producer but she will be making a small cameo performance as the Sugar Plum Fairy.
“Ballet is a meticulous and difficult art form. Going back to performing now I have become more compassionate. I can see when it’s time to pause and take a moment. I have a better appreciation for what these dancers are going through.”
The daughter of two dancers herself, Goh’s career is one decorated with countless awards and accolades including an honorary degree from UBC, the Order of Canada, the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, and an assortment of ballet and dance competition wins and awards.
“I think my parents first put me in dance as a way to keep an eye on me” jokes Goh. “But I remember being about 11 and having been dancing for a few years and noticing that I wasn’t getting as much attention as some other kids in the class. So, I found the courage to say, ‘Correct me. Show me what I’m doing wrong.’ And that’s when I knew I wanted to do this.”
By the age of 15, Goh was competing internationally.
“I went to a competition and I was the only Canadian there—some people didn’t even know where Vancouver was. People didn’t expect me to win or place in the competition, so it was very validating and that became the reaffirmation I needed to make ballet and performing my career. I think all dancers can look back and see those moments in their careers. Those experiences translate into who you are.”
Filming this year’s performance, Goh says she’s eager to not only give audiences an insight into the world of ballet and the performing arts, but to show audiences passion, desire, and joy.
“We’re appealing to emotions in this story that are so genuine. It’s a journey anyone can go on with us and relate to in some way. I want people to walk away from this film ready to find their own opportunities, to chase their dreams and explore more things. This really is an awakening of how things can change and what we can do with that.”
Visit: www.gohnutcracker.com/beyondthestage to receive exclusive access to the limited time film release of Goh Ballet’s The Nutcracker: Beyond The Stage, available from December 18, 2020 until January 2, 2021.
Not one, not two, but 24 full days of contests, giveaways, gifts with purchase and tons more! Countdown to Christmas with us and get a chance to win a beautiful sapphire diamond ring from Golden Tree Jewellers, a $500 shopping spree at Hudson’s Bay, or a comfy weighted blanket from Showcase! And that’s only three of the 24 days… there’s so much to choose from and so much to win!
Santa Claus is coming to town, but of course, virtually! To keep our community and the big man in red safe, Santa will be hosting video calls with families this Holiday season. So come join Santa on a call from the comfort of your own home.
Willowbrook’s highly coveted Holiday fashion, right at your fingertips! Explore must-have gift items of the season in our latest edition of the Holiday Hit List.
If there’s ever been a year that justified the idea of “treat yo’ self” it’s 2020. Make time and take time to not only buy yourself a gift but relax and enjoy it. Spoil yourself, someone has to.
DO invest in products that work for your skin
It’s no secret that winter weather can be hard on your skin and it’s common to see chapped lips, dry skin, and cracked heels this time of year. But the skin you’re in is unique, and it’s important to pick products that work for you. Chat with a skincare expert at The Body Shop and look for natural, nourishing ingredients. Want to sample a few different things at once? Look for travel-size products and stocking stuffer sets that include a variety of items before you purchase a full-sized version.
DON’T overwhelm the senses
We know there are so many great smelling products—from lotions and soaps to scented candles and diffusers—but picking too main fragrances can not only make it hard to tell what it is you’re smelling it can also lead to headaches and trigger allergies. Instead, pick a single scent you love and enjoy! Psst, needing some extra relaxation? Lavender, chamomile, and bergamot are known for their soothing and relaxing properties. But we wouldn’t blame you if you prefer something that smells like apple cinnamon or sugar cookies, too. Head to Bath & Body Works for all your fragrance needs.
DO leave some things to the pros
Have you ever heard the expression, “if it was that easy everyone would do it?” it applies to pampering and beauty services, too. While a home pedicure can be a quick pick me up and press on nails from the drug store can be cost-effective, treating yourself to professional services like a manicure, pedicure, facial, or massage means you get the benefit of professional expertise. A professional at ToeToSoul Relax Lounge will use the right products for you and can make personalized recommendations, too.
DON’T worry if you don’t know what you want We all know someone difficult to buy for and sometimes that someone is yourself. If you can’t decide exactly what you want, get yourself a Willowbrook gift card. Purchasing a gift card reserves a set amount towards your pampering that you can use later and prevents you from coming up with excuses or worrying about the cost. It’s already covered!
Whether you find something small to brighten your day or splurge on a head to toe spa day, don’t leave yourself off your holiday shopping list this season.
Okay, we know, the wet and grey drizzly Vancouver weather paired with the fact that it’s dark at lunchtime can make the winter months tough. But with the right pair of shoes (and boots and a sweater and a jacket) you’ll be far more comfortable and still stylish as ever.
Start from the ground up. Cold feet are the worst. Not only is it time to bust out thick, plush, fuzzy socks, it’s also time to look for boots and make sure your footwear can withstand rain and the occasional puddle. Stick with black or dark brown to ensure maximum options. Available at Blackwell Supply Co. and SoftMoc.
Those cute ripped jeans you were wearing a month ago? Time to put them back in the drawer and get pants that won’t leave you vulnerable to frostbite. Look for bootcut or skinny jeans at Below The Belt or Jack & Jones to easily tuck into your favourite boots and pair with a soft and warm sweater.
We don’t blame you if you’d rather not put your jeans on right now, either. And that’s why leggings and sweatpants exist! At Warehouse One, you can look for lined leggings that will not only keep you extra warm but are thicker to prevent any dreaded see-through spots. Or try joggers—a more tailored sweatpants alternative—to look athletic and comfortable, rather than traditional oversized sweats.
There’s no alternative to a proper rain jacket if you live in the Lower Mainland and now is the time to dust it off or invest in an upgrade. A warm, sleek, comfortable rain jacket from Little Mountain Vancouver and the winter coat from Nordstrom Rack is a must-have for anyone and makes popping out to run errands or take a quick walk that much more enjoyable. Besides, who really likes carrying a dripping umbrella with them all the time anyway?
Be sure to layer up under your jacket. Nothing screams winter wear like layers—the softer and snugglier the better. Look for zip-ups and buttons instead of over-the-head hoodies so that you can easily undo your layers if necessary before you overheat. Available at Little Mountain Vancouver and Nordstrom Rack.
As much as we’re all for staying home right now when the time comes to go out, be sure to stay warm, stay dry, stay stylish, and stay six feet away from other people.
Even in the midst of a global pandemic, flu season still exists, and it’s here. And while we’re rocking our masks, busting out our hand sanitizer, and staying away from as many people as possible those pesky germs can still get in and wage war with our immune systems. So, it’s time to stock up, stay in, and stay well.
Are you taking your vitamins? As the seasons change, we’re getting less fresh air and less sunlight so it’s increasingly important to ensure you’re getting all the vitamins and minerals you need. Your specific needs can depend on your age, diet, lifestyle and any medical conditions you may have. Make time to talk to a knowledgeable in-store expert at Nutrition House to learn more about the right supplements and dosage for you, and your family, and stock up.
Feeling a tickle in your throat? Stay calm, boil the kettle, and break out the tea. Not only is it soothing, but a hot cup of tea is sure to warm you up and keep you cozy. Plus, it’s delicious. Tea can also cure a range of ailments—from settling an upset stomach to reducing stress and aiding in sleep—and can be a good source of antioxidants. But, we wouldn’t blame you if you’d rather treat yourself to a creamy and decadent hot chocolate. While you’re at it, try swapping the hot water for steamed milk as a splurge. Available at Murchie’s.
Ready for a nap? Who isn’t? Take your comfort and cozy game up a level with a new fleece blanket that’s warm and snuggly no matter where you choose to hit the hay. Plus, when you’re not curled up and hibernating, it makes a great couch throw. The quality of your sleep is also crucial and it’s just as important as the quantity. If you’re finding yourself staring at the ceiling in the middle of the night you might want to invest in new pillows. At QE Home, you can look for pillows that match your predominant sleeping style (back, side, or front) and while you’re at it, why not get a set of cute seasonal sheets, too?
If you do find yourself under the weather for a day or two, try delving into a good read or flagging new recipes for future meal prepping thanks to Coles. Or, use your quiet time to pick up a new pen and paper hobby like sketching, colouring, or hand lettering.
No one likes or plans to get sick but with the right supplies on-hand your winter flu could fly by and you’ll be prepared and ready to take on the day ahead—tomorrow.
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