6.23.25

This newsletter is presented by

A message from deputy editor Emily Adams

It’s hard to quantify how a well-designed space can affect your mood, your healing, or your day. But it’s undoubtedly true that the most thoughtfully crafted environments impact how you move through them. Recently, I spoke with Andrea Giovando, the principal and senior interior designer at St. Louis’ Bond Architects, about the concept of trauma-informed design and how her team is finding evidence that spaces that incorporate choice-based elements—from private areas and communal layouts to acoustics, color theory, and textures—promote healing and a better quality of life. Read more below about how Giovando’s firm is transforming St. Louis’ nonprofits and schools with this approach in mind. Likewise in this edition, we’re sharing some of the top places to melt your stress and anxieties away through meditation—or through spinning, if that’s more your speed.

As always, please don’t hesitate to email me if there are ways this newsletter can be more helpful to you. Stay well, St. Louis.

If you know any St. Louisans who might also be interested in local wellness news, please spread the word by sharing this link.

Clayton High School library conversation area

MAKE SPACE

Bond Architects is transforming St. Louis’ nonprofits and schools with trauma-informed design

Creating environments that support healing and wellbeing doesn’t require a full renovation—just a shift in mindset. Here are five trauma-informed principles for everyday design:

🛋️ Prioritize safety and calm: Use open layouts, soft lighting, and quiet zones to reduce stress and promote emotional ease.

🎯 Empower with choice: Offer diverse seating and layout options, so people can engage, retreat, or focus based on their needs.

🌱 Bring nature indoors: Add greenery, natural textures, and biophilic elements to create a sense of peace and connection.

🎨 Support the senses: Use calming colors, acoustics, and tactile materials that soothe rather than overwhelm.

🏠 Design with dignity: Create spaces that are beautiful and welcoming, reinforcing self-worth and a sense of belonging.

A MESSAGE FROM NATUREMED

Discover new patient deals at NatureMed dispensaries

New to NatureMed? Enjoy exclusive new patient deals at their O'Fallon and Kingston locations. Visit today and discover your go-to spot for quality cannabis and friendly service.

Visit Now »

SPIN CITY

Where to find spin classes in St. Louis

Ready to ride? Whether you’re craving high-energy beats or a personalized performance plan, these spin spots deliver serious motivation—and a major workout.

🎶 CycleBar

Where: Creve Coeur, O’Fallon, and Richmond Heights
What: With themed rides (hello, Taylor Swift vs. Noah Kahan), this studio blends music and motivation. Multiple locations and flexible memberships make it beginner-friendly and social.

💪 Power Up Cycling

Where: Chesterfield
What: This studio offers custom training plans, performance clinics, and data-driven coaching for serious cyclists. No riding instructors here—just real-time, personalized feedback.

🚴 JCC St. Louis

Where: Creve Coeur
What: Variety is key at the Jewish Community Center, with spin classes offered throughout the day—and it's free if you’re already a member.

🩰 TruFusion STL

Where: Clayton, Midtown at City Foundry STL
What: Want more than just spin? This all-in-one wellness hub combines cycling with yoga, barre, strength, and more. The first class is free for new members.

HEALTH

5 places to practice meditation in St. Louis

Need a mental reset? These St. Louis spots offer welcoming ways to slow down, breathe deep, and reconnect—with yourself and your surroundings.

🪑 Confluence Zen Center STL

Where: Maplewood
What: A calm, minimalist space for practicing traditional zazen (seated Zen meditation). Beginners’ Nights are perfect for newcomers.

🧘 Joy of Yoga

Where: Brentwood
What: This studio blends movement and mindfulness, offering guided meditation alongside gentle yoga practices.

🌊 Float STL

Where: Midtown, Maryland Heights
What: Completely unplug in a float pod filled with warm, Epsom salt water. Add infrared sauna sessions for extra relaxation.

🕯️ Jane’s House Studio

Where: St. Charles
What: This longtime St. Charles favorite offers yoga, reiki, and deep meditation sessions, including monthly breathwork classes.

🌙 Yoga in DeMun

Where: Clayton
What: At this serene spot, guided meditation is woven into weekly deep stretch classes.

BRANDED CONTENT

Can your home support your overall well-being?

“While trends come and go, wellness at home is an emerging practice that is here to stay,” says Dana King, founder of Dana King Design Build Remodeling. Learn more about King’s three-tier approach to a healthier space.

News You Can Use

IN A PICKLE

It’s America’s fastest-growing sport, and St. Louis is certainly no stranger to the paddle. In that light, BJC is warning of a few ways to dodge pickleball injuries.

MAKING A SPLASH

A St. Louis County swimmer is embarking on a 28.5-mile Manhattan swim to support global youth leadership. Even if your aquatic goals aren’t quite that lofty, there’s something for everyone in our pool guide this summer.

HELPING HANDS

The metro area has been reeling since the May 16 tornado. Many local organizations are rising up to meet the demand for help, including Lutheran Family and Children’s Services, which is offering free mental health support for St. Louis area kids this summer.