We spend a lot of time pushing our bodies—training harder, running farther, lifting heavier. But true progress doesn’t just happen in the gym or on the mat; it happens in the hours and days after. Recovery is the often-overlooked key to performance, longevity, and overall well-being. Without it, even the most disciplined regimen can lead to burnout, injury, and diminishing returns.
Science-backed modalities are helping athletes and everyday wellness seekers optimize their healing, reduce inflammation, and recharge at a cellular level. These four methods are leading the way in the future of recovery.
Red light therapy might sound futuristic, but its benefits are deeply rooted in science. This therapy uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to penetrate the skin and stimulate mitochondrial function—the powerhouse of the cell. The result is accelerated muscle recovery, reduced inflammation, and increased collagen production.
Red Light Recovery in Norman, Oklahoma, emphasizes these transformative benefits, offering sessions with the TheraLight 360+ full-body light therapy system, which they describe as “the most advanced, versatile, and effective full-body light therapy system on the market.” Athletes use red light therapy to recover faster from muscle fatigue and injuries, while others turn to it for joint pain relief and even improved sleep. One client at Red Light Recovery shared a remarkable testimonial about healing an avulsion fracture in just three weeks—far ahead of the expected 6-8 week recovery timeline. These results highlight the power of red light therapy and Red Light Recovery’s commitment to providing cutting-edge recovery solutions.
Red Light Recovery
@red.light.recovery
Float therapy has gained popularity among athletes, high-performers, and wellness seekers for its ability to accelerate recovery, enhance mindfulness, and reduce stress. This unique experience involves stepping into a pod or tank filled with warm, magnesium-rich water, where the body becomes effortlessly buoyant, free from the pull of gravity.
The high concentration of Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) in the water promotes deep muscle relaxation, while the sensory deprivation aspect allows the nervous system to shift into a calm, parasympathetic state. By eliminating external distractions, float therapy helps to ease muscle tension, relieve stress, and enhance mental clarity. Whether used for physical recovery, meditation, or stress management, this practice provides a tranquil environment where both the mind and body can reset, leaving you feeling refreshed and restored.
Chiropractic care is more than just spine adjustments and cracking sounds—it’s about restoring balance, mobility, and nerve function throughout the body. Misalignments in the spine, known as subluxations, can contribute to muscle tightness, poor posture, and even chronic pain.
Regular chiropractic adjustments help improve joint mobility, reduce inflammation, and support nervous system function, making it an essential recovery tool for those dealing with sports injuries, repetitive strain, or even desk-job-related stiffness.
Dr. Hughes with Curis Edmond believes that chiropractic care is essential for living a healthy life, focusing on spinal and extremity adjustments, including specialized performance training.
His patients have reported significant improvements, with one stating, “I had both back and neck pain. With Dr. Hughes’ adjustments and overall treatment plan, I’ve never felt better!”
Curis Edmond
@curis.edmond
drhughesoffice.com
Cupping therapy, an ancient practice rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, has seen a resurgence in the wellness world—and for good reason. This technique involves placing suction cups on the skin to create negative pressure, drawing blood flow to targeted areas. The result? Increased circulation, myofascial release, and faster healing.
Many athletes and active individuals swear by cupping for reducing muscle soreness, breaking up scar tissue, and enhancing mobility. Those signature circular marks? They’re simply a sign of improved blood flow and deep tissue healing.
“When cups are used dynamically through fascial planes the decompressive force is paired with a shearing force, which is excellent for breaking up scar tissue, releasing superficial nerve entrapments, and increasing blood flow and circulation to flush out inflammation in the area. Cupping is an excellent tool for both chronic pain management and acute injury recovery.” Dr. Jolett Rod, DC, MS, owner of Spine & Spirit
Spine & Spirit
@spineandspiritokc
Gone are the days when recovery meant just an ice pack and a rest day. With innovative, science-backed therapies, we have powerful tools to heal smarter, recover faster, and perform better.
In Oklahoma City, Spine and Spirit stands out as a sanctuary for health and healing, combining cutting-edge techniques like Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) with personalized chiropractic care. Led by Dr. Jolett Rod, an experienced chiropractor and advocate for whole-body wellness, Spine and Spirit offers a transformative approach to achieving pain-free movement and overall vitality.
At Spine and Spirit, the focus isn’t just on treating symptoms. Dr. Rod takes a personalized, evidence-based approach to uncover the root causes of pain and dysfunction. Through DNS, she empowers patients to restore natural movement patterns, improve stability, and strengthen the body’s foundation.
DNS methodology is based on the developmental kinesiology milestones of infants, which serve as the foundation for a lifetime of coordinated movement, balance, and posture. Compensational movements over time that deviate from these fundamental patterns can result in dysfunction, pain, and injury as adults. Chiropractic focuses on restoring joint alignment, improving nerve function, and relieving pain. DNS enhances these outcomes by addressing the neuromuscular system’s role in maintaining proper alignment and movement patterns. Spine and Spirit utilizes a patient-first approach, where DNS exercises are tailored to each patient’s individual needs.
The core principles of DNS integrate core stabilization, neuromuscular coordination, and proper diaphragmatic breathing to help patients regain confidence in their body’s ability to move without limitation.
1. Improved Core Stability: A stable core is essential for spinal health and peripheral movement function. DNS helps patients activate their core muscles, particularly the diaphragm, to support the spine and pelvis during movement, reducing strain on the joints and ligaments.
2. Neuromuscular Coordination: DNS retrains the nervous system to activate muscles in the correct sequence, ensuring efficient and pain-free movement. This complements chiropractic adjustments by addressing the underlying motor dysfunctions that lead to joint restrictions and pain.
3. Postural Alignment: Poor posture can lead to chronic pain and musculoskeletal issues. DNS reinforces proper postural patterns by balancing spinal mobility with core stability, providing long-term relief.
4. Functional Breathing Integration: Breathing patterns are central to DNS. Many patients unknowingly adopt improper breathing patterns that compromise core stability and exacerbate pain. Proper diaphragmatic breathing not only supports core stability but also optimizes oxygenation, stress reduction, and neuromuscular function.
Dr. Rod pairs DNS with manual therapy to equip patients with the tools and knowledge they need to maintain their results, encouraging a lifestyle of strength and resilience. She uses functional exercises such as lying, rolling, crawling and squatting paired with hands-on techniques to re-educate the neuromuscular system.
Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, recovering from an injury or surgery, striving to meet new fitness goals, or simply wanting to improve your posture and movement, the combination of DNS and chiropractic care teaches your body how to thrive. Invest in yourself and the innovative techniques at Spine and Spirit, where Dr. Rod isn’t just eliminating pain, she’s using her empathy and expertise to give patients their life back. Schedule your first appointment today and take the first step toward a stronger, healthier you.
By Dr. Jolett Rod, DC, MS, RYT 200
The Santa Fe Family Life Center (SFFLC) operates with a clear and unwavering mission: to improve the health of Oklahomans by providing sports and fitness programs that are accessible to all, regardless of income or ability. As a nonprofit organization, the center serves as a vital resource for the community, offering opportunities for individuals with disabilities and disadvantaged youth to engage in sports and wellness activities. In the past year alone, SFFLC has donated over 1,500 hours of facility usage, run adaptive sports programs, and served more than 9,000 children in youth leagues. The center also partners with over 25 local nonprofits—including Dale Rogers Training Center, Greater OKC Pickleball Club, Oklahoma Adaptive Sports Association, Oklahoma City VA, Special Olympics, and Wings—to expand its reach, ensuring that athletics and physical fitness are available to those who need them most.
One of the most anticipated events that directly aligns with this mission is the upcoming Adaptive Sports Expo on May 8th. This expo is designed to showcase a variety of adaptive sports, offering hands-on experiences for individuals with disabilities while raising awareness about the importance of inclusive athletics. Attendees will have the chance to explore activities such as wheelchair basketball, adaptive tennis, and other sports that demonstrate the power of movement and competition in fostering confidence and independence. With interactive sessions and expert-led demonstrations, the event is set to be a celebration of ability, resilience, and community.
As SFFLC continues to grow and expand its impact, it is also welcoming new leadership. Joshua Norman has recently been appointed as the center’s Executive Director, bringing with him a wealth of experience in personal development and community engagement. Norman previously served as the Director of the S.O.U.L. Mission at the University of Oklahoma, where he worked closely with student-athletes to instill leadership values and civic responsibility. His passion for service and building strong, inclusive communities makes him a perfect fit for SFFLC’s vision. His leadership at SFFLC is expected to bring fresh ideas and renewed energy to the center’s efforts in promoting accessible health and fitness programs.
Looking ahead, the Santa Fe Family Life Center is preparing for another major event—the JFK Awards Gala in September. This annual event honors individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to the community while supporting the center’s ongoing initiatives. It serves as a key fundraising opportunity to expand SFFLC’s programs and continue providing access to sports for people of all abilities. More details on dates, sponsorship opportunities, and ticket information can be found on the center’s website.
With the Adaptive Sports Expo on the horizon and new leadership driving its mission forward, Santa Fe Family Life Center continues to create opportunities for inclusive health and wellness. To learn more, get involved, or support SFFLC’s mission, visit sfflc.com.
Spring is more than a change in weather—it’s a season of renewal, growth, and transformation. Just as nature resets, so can individuals. At Resilient Psychotherapy and Psychiatric Services, mental health is seen as deeply intertwined with the connections people nurture—within themselves, with others, and with the natural world.
“Healing isn’t a solo journey. The more someone invests in connection—with themselves, others, and nature—the stronger their emotional foundation becomes,” says Christina Whelan, founder of Resilient Psychotherapy and Psychiatric Services.
When connection is lost, people drift away from what truly matters. Mental health is shaped by the thoughts they entertain, the relationships they foster, and the environmental stressors they encounter. By making conscious choices, they can protect their emotional space and well-being:
“Burnout isn’t a badge of honor. Pushing through fatigue and stress doesn’t prove strength; it erodes well-being.” Whelan says, encouraging individuals to prioritize their mental and emotional health.
Prioritizing well-being isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. When individuals care for themselves, they are better equipped to support others. Consider these essential reminders:
One of the greatest sources of anxiety and stress is focusing on things beyond control. The mind naturally fixates on uncertainty, leading to feelings of helplessness. Instead of getting caught in the noise, individuals can shift their attention to what strengthens and connects them:
The key to resilient living lies in balance: validating struggles while also cultivating intentionality in protecting the mind and heart. At Resilient Psychotherapy and Psychiatric Services, compassionate care is available to help individuals navigate their journey. Schedule a consultation today and invest in a stronger, more balanced you.
Address: 5708 NW 135th St Suite C, Oklahoma City, OK 73142
Phone: (405) 225-0010
New Mom School Edmond is more than just a class—it’s a supportive space for new mothers navigating the unpredictable journey of early motherhood. Locally owned by Jaclyn Buckingham, a new mom herself, New Mom School Edmond was created from a place of deep understanding and empathy. Jaclyn knows firsthand the overwhelming mix of emotions, from the joy of holding your baby for the first time to the uncertainty of sleepless nights and endless questions. Her mission is to ensure that no mother feels alone in this journey.
The school offers a structured yet nurturing environment where mothers and their babies come together weekly for eight weeks. Each class is carefully designed to address different aspects of the postpartum experience, from sleep and feeding to mental health and personal identity. The curriculum is led by a diverse group of experts, including a sleep consultant, pelvic floor physical therapists, an international board certified lactation consultant, a certified parenting coach, an infant massage therapist, a pediatric dietitian, a pediatric physical therapist, car seat safety technician, and mental health professionals, all of whom provide evidence-based guidance tailored to new moms’ needs.
What sets New Mom School Edmond apart is its community-driven approach. Beyond the expert-led discussions, the program fosters deep, meaningful connections between moms who are all walking a similar path. The power of shared experience is undeniable—having a support system that truly understands the highs and lows of motherhood can be life-changing.
The classes are divided into four main groups: one for moms with newborns (0-3 months), another for infants (3-6 months), and a third for rising toddlers (6-12 months). In addition to these core classes, New Mom School Edmond also offers a specialized course for second-time moms with newborns (0-3 months), providing support tailored to their unique experiences. These classes are designed to address the unique challenges and experiences that come with parenting at different stages. Whether it’s managing the transition to toddlerhood or navigating the dynamics of being a second-time mom, these offerings ensure every mother finds the support she needs at the right stage of her journey.
In addition to the structured classes, the program also includes baby-friendly activities such as music and movement sessions, sensory play, and guided bonding exercises to help strengthen the mother-baby connection.
Edmond New Moms School also goes beyond education by providing a safe space for open conversation. Whether it’s discussing the mental load of motherhood, the challenges of returning to work, or simply acknowledging the struggles that come with adjusting to a new identity, Jaclyn has created a place where mothers feel heard and supported.
In a world where postpartum care often feels overlooked, Jaclyn is on a mission to change that narrative. She believes that every mother deserves access to the knowledge, support, and community that will empower her to thrive—not just survive—the early months of motherhood. Her hope is that through the school, moms will not only gain confidence in their new roles but also find friendships that last well beyond the newborn stage.
For those looking to learn more about New Mom School Edmond, visit newmomschool.com/edmond-ok/ or @newmomschool_edmond.
Boombox Beach Club is bringing the ultimate beach experience to Oklahoma City, offering a one-of-a-kind destination where sports, community, and fun come together. As the city’s first indoor beach volleyball facility, this 70,000+ square-foot venue provides a space where players of all skill levels can enjoy year-round competition while families and friends relax in a welcoming, energizing atmosphere.
With eight fully climate-controlled indoor courts and seven outdoor courts, Boombox Beach Club ensures that weather never gets in the way of a great game. Each court is equipped with its own directional sound system, creating a high-energy yet personalized playing environment. Whether you’re here to compete in leagues, sharpen your skills in a clinic, or just enjoy a casual game with friends, there’s a space for everyone to get in on the action.
Beyond volleyball, Boombox Beach Club is designed as a gathering place for all. Guests can unwind in the spacious seating areas, cool down in designated relaxation zones, or take in the action from the two-story observation deck. The on-site café and bar cater to both athletes and spectators with a variety of nutritious and delicious options, including customized wellness and protein smoothies, acai bowls, fresh salads, hot sandwiches, and protein-packed bowls. Designed to help guests recover and recharge after an intense match, the menu blends performance-focused ingredients with crave-worthy flavors, making it just as much a destination for food as it is for fun.
Boombox Beach Club isn’t just about sports—it’s about building a vibrant community. The facility hosts a variety of events, from social mixers and themed tournaments to private parties and corporate outings, making it a go-to spot for both recreation and connection. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or someone just looking for a fun way to stay active, there’s a welcoming energy that encourages everyone to get involved.
For those eager to improve their game, Boombox offers expert-led clinics and training sessions designed for players of all ages and skill levels. From junior development programs to competitive adult leagues, the club provides top-tier coaching in a supportive and high-energy setting. With a focus on skill-building and teamwork, it’s the perfect place to elevate your game while being part of a dynamic and passionate beach volleyball community.
Families will find a welcoming environment where kids and adults alike can enjoy the space. With activities like ping pong, cornhole, and plenty of open areas to relax, it’s not just for serious competitors—it’s a destination where everyone can have fun. Whether you’re looking for an exciting night out, a place to train and compete, or just a spot to unwind with a cold drink in hand, Boombox Beach Club is redefining what it means to escape to the beach—without ever leaving OKC. For more information on memberships, clinics, tournaments or leagues, visit boomboxokc.com or @bmbxbeach on social media.
Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life, yet it remains widely misunderstood and often neglected in medical education. This lack of awareness has contributed to a shortage of healthcare providers specializing in menopause management, leaving many women without adequate support during this critical transition. “There are only seven certified menopause providers in the entire state,” says Dr. Ronni Farris.
Dr. Ronni Farris, based in Norman, Oklahoma, is one of these few certified menopause providers. With a strong background in gynecology, wellness, and aesthetics, Dr. Farris is committed to offering compassionate, personalized care to women navigating menopause. Her mission is to create a safe and inclusive space where patients receive customized treatment plans designed to enhance their health and well-being.
Dr. Farris’s journey into menopause medicine was driven by her recognition of the glaring gaps in education and available care. Seeing firsthand how many women struggled to find providers knowledgeable about menopause, she pursued advanced certification from The Menopause Society, making her a leader in the field.
The lack of specialized menopause care is a nationwide issue. A study published in Menopause, the journal of The Menopause Society, found that many residency programs do not include a standardized menopause curriculum, leaving new physicians unprepared to manage menopause-related health concerns.
This educational gap has direct consequences for patient care. Many women experiencing hot flashes, mood changes, sleep disturbances, or bone density loss struggle to find doctors who understand their symptoms and can offer effective solutions.
Dr. Farris has seen this firsthand. “Menopause is a critical phase in a woman’s health journey, yet so many women are left without guidance or support. My goal is to change that,” she shares.
Menopause is not a one-size-fits-all experience, and neither are the treatments. Dr. Farris offers a variety of options to help women manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being.
HRT is one of the most effective treatments for managing menopause symptoms. It helps alleviate hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness while also reducing the risk of osteoporosis. However, it is not suitable for every woman, so Dr. Farris takes a personalized approach, assessing each patient’s medical history and individual needs.
For women who cannot or choose not to use HRT, there are several non-hormonal options available. These include lifestyle changes, dietary supplements, and medications like SSRIs (typically used for depression but effective in reducing hot flashes).
Exercise, nutrition, and stress management play a crucial role in managing menopause symptoms. Dr. Farris emphasizes strength training to maintain bone health, a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, and mindfulness techniques to help with mood swings and sleep disturbances.
Beyond her clinical work, Dr. Farris is an advocate for menopause education. She regularly shares insights and advice through her social media platforms, blog posts, and community events, aiming to break the silence surrounding menopause and encourage open discussions about women’s health.
Dr. Ronni Farris is at the forefront of this change, proving that menopause is not something women should endure alone. Through her expertise, compassion, and advocacy, she is helping women navigate this transformative stage with confidence and support.
Facebook and Instagram: @ronnifarrismd
Oklahoma City is about to get a whole lot more exciting with the grand debut of OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark. This isn’t just any resort—it’s a vibrant blend of adventure, wellness, and entertainment, all wrapped up in one incredible destination. Imagine a place where you can perfect your golf swing, enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment, and savor delectable cuisine—all without leaving the premises.
For those who believe that vacation doesn’t mean a break from fitness, OKANA has it covered. The state-of-the-art fitness center overlooks the lagoon and features the latest cardio and strength equipment, free weights, and workout spaces for every type of fitness enthusiast. Whether you prefer a morning yoga session or an intense weightlifting routine, you’ll find the perfect spot to stay active and energized.
After breaking a sweat, what better way to unwind and recover than at The Spa at OKANA? This serene sanctuary offers separate facilities for men and women, private lockers, and a co-ed lounge stocked with complimentary teas, water, and snacks. Guests enjoying a service of 50 minutes or longer gain full access to the spa for the entire day—making it the perfect escape to relax, recharge, and restore balance.
OKANA takes the concept of “fun fitness” to a whole new level. At Smokehouse Social, you can enjoy mouth-watering BBQ while testing your skills on sports simulators. Imagine perfecting your golf swing, practicing soccer kicks, or honing your baseball pitches in a high-tech, interactive environment. It’s the perfect mix of entertainment and activity, ensuring you have a blast while keeping fit.
For those who crave even more adventure, OKANARAMA offers a two-story laser tag arena, a hall of mirrors, escape rooms, and over 100 arcade games. It’s a playground for both the young and the young at heart.
Food lovers will be delighted by OKANA’s 13 diverse food and beverage outlets, offering everything from signature dining at Jack Rabbit to quick bites at Pie Lab. And for those looking to unwind, the adults-only pool with a swim-up bar provides a perfect spot to sip on crafted cocktails while soaking up the sun.
OKANA is truly a “destination within a destination.” The 100,000-square-foot indoor waterpark and the 4.5-acre outdoor lagoon, surrounded by a sandy beach, offer endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re lounging in a private cabana or taking a dip in one of the 11 pools, you’ll find your personal paradise here. The resort’s all-suite hotel provides a range of accommodations, including multi-room suites, bunk options, and stunning river and lagoon views. Designed for both adults and kids, it ensures that every guest has a memorable stay.
One of OKANA’s standout features is The District, an area designed to welcome both resort guests and the local community. Home to Smokehouse Social and The Spa at OKANA, this space fosters connection, bringing visitors and locals together to enjoy the resort’s world-class amenities. Open year-round, OKANA ensures that no matter the season, there’s always something exciting happening. From wellness programming and daily resort activities to in-room amenities like coffee and water, every detail is designed to enhance your stay.
The opening of OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark marks a major milestone for Oklahoma City, adding a premier destination for wellness, fitness, and entertainment. Whether you’re a local looking for a staycation or a traveler seeking a unique getaway, OKANA offers an unparalleled experience that blends relaxation and adventure.
Pack your bags, your workout gear, and your sense of adventure—OKANA is ready to welcome you to an unforgettable escape.
Reservations are now open and can be booked at okanaresort.com
Visit @okanaresort to get a sneak peek of the excitement and see why this destination is set to redefine fun and relaxation in Oklahoma City!
Beauty is more than just skin deep—it’s an art, a science, and a reflection of confidence. At Aesthetic Center of Excellence (ACE), beauty is redefined with precision, innovation, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. More than just a premier medical spa, ACE is a distinguished training facility for injectables and Sciton lasers—setting a new standard in the industry. With a focus on enhancing natural beauty through non-invasive procedures, ACE has become a trusted destination for those seeking transformative results.
At the helm is Stacy Coleman, RN, BSN, an aesthetic nurse injector with over eight years of experience in the field. Before entering aesthetics, she spent nearly a decade in the demanding world of critical care nursing, refining her skills in the cardiac ICU. This foundation gave her an unmatched understanding of human anatomy and physiology—expertise that translates seamlessly into her work at ACE, where safety and natural, stunning results are the priority.
At the heart of ACE is a team of dedicated professionals committed to excellence in aesthetics. Kyndra Morris, a skilled physician assistant with over 11 years of experience, blends her expertise in lasers, skincare, and biostimulators to create natural enhancements. Bringing over two decades of nursing experience, Jamie Brewer helps patients feel confident through personalized injectables, laser treatments, and skincare. Kourtney Wooldridge, an expert aesthetic nurse and national trainer, takes a comprehensive approach by combining injectables, skincare, and lasers for natural-looking results. Keeping everything running smoothly, Jordan Maroney manages patient coordination and marketing, balancing front-office operations with a welcoming approach. With a keen eye for skincare, Sydney Lucas enhances skin health through dermaplaning, microneedling, and advanced facials. Eunice Hernandez, a bilingual aesthetician and massage therapist, offers expert skincare treatments, chemical peels, and rejuvenating massages.
Together, these women aren’t just offering aesthetic treatments—they’re reshaping the industry, one confident patient at a time. Coleman and her team have cultivated an environment that goes beyond traditional med spa services. ACE offers a selection of advanced treatments, from injectables to state-of-the-art Sciton laser technology, all designed to enhance natural beauty while prioritizing patient care. But what truly sets ACE apart isn’t just the expertise—it’s the experience.
The moment you walk into ACE, you know you’re somewhere special. It’s sleek, it’s modern, and it’s infused with the kind of energy that makes you feel instantly at ease. There’s a reason their clients keep coming back—it’s not just about the stunning results. It’s about the trust, the artistry, and the way ACE makes every visit feel like an investment in both beauty and confidence.
Beyond providing exceptional treatments, ACE is shaping the future of aesthetics. As a premier training facility, the team is dedicated to educating the next generation of injectors and laser specialists, offering hands-on training that upholds the highest industry standards. This commitment to education ensures that the field of aesthetics continues to evolve, with ACE leading the charge.
With a reputation built on trust, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, ACE isn’t just a destination for aesthetic treatments—it’s where expertise meets artistry, and beauty is redefined with every visit. Each member of the ACE team is dedicated to delivering the highest level of care, creating an environment where clients feel seen, supported, and confident in their aesthetic journey.
For a complimentary consultation, visit acemedspa.com or call 405-452-0055.
@ace.medspa
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