Capturing the momentum of renewed interest in good health, Wellness Reimagined this month can be a nudge to get going and start moving. Rather than emphasizing physical health, however, Wellness Reimagined showcases vendors who also help with techniques to improve mental health and build self-confidence.

“I’ve been in Teller County since 201o and I’ve seen the needle go from medical bills more toward homeopathic in a favorable kind of way,” Thom Seehafer, founder of the nonprofit Colorado Phoenix Project, one of three sponsors of the event. “People are realizing that herbs, oils, exercise, food, massage, facials and sunshine are tools for health.”

Jamie Sula, massage therapist for 14 years, will offer tips on a variety of types, including rehabilitation massage. 

“I just want to be sure you can do whatever you want to do,” said Sula, whose Strength and Healing Massage Therapy and Herd Fitness, co-sponsor the event.  “I will do whatever you need to fully thrive, whether you’re an athlete or 84 years old and just want to be able to get your groceries out of the car.”

Justin Collen recently opened Grit to Greatness Performance Center in Woodland Park.

“If you’re serious about training it doesn’t mean you’re a champion but are intentional about what you are trying to do,” said Collen, whose center is a co-sponsor of Wellness Reimagined. “We provide specialty bars and equipment here.”

As the name implies “Grit to Greatness,” takes work and commitment to achieve health and fitness.  Collen, who has a has a master’s degree in exercise science and strength conditioning, in addition to certifications in physiology, nutrition and training, hired coaches to help clients achieve goals.

“We’re a team here,” he said.

Collen, who before opening the center worked in other venues, helps clients who range from 12 to 84.  During the event, Collen and his staff will be on hand to talk with individuals about goals and using the equipment.

The vendors, in addition to Collen, Seehafer and Sula, include Kelly Knott, Elevate Wellness and Physical Therapy; Jan McNerney, Heart Rooted Healing; Amber Schumacher, Harmony Haven Esthetics; Jen Mansur, Twin Tigers and Acupuncture; Kristen and Megan, with the nonprofit The Speak Life Project; Amy and Martin Kauffman, Rebuild Integrative Therapy; Heather & Amy, Rifles to Reins; Jan Railey, Mountain Mama Chiropractic; Shelby, Snooze Mattress; Bobbi Kae-Warner, Tenacity Health; Tuesday Hoelster, Cloudnine Nutrition; Scott Little, Coherence-Centered Care; Nikolani, ATC Fight Academy

 “We wanted to make sure we were covering every base; the event will be interactive so people will have an opportunity to do something physical,” Sula said.

Fitness is like a recipe, Seehafer said, with each vendor providing an ingredient.  “With Wellness Reimagined, people can push themselves to try something new. And the light bulb goes on – it’s simple once it’s shown to people what they can do.”