Substance is a non-denominational church located in Loring Park. Welcoming and inclusive of everyone, they offer several small groups to support members with specific needs and guidance. Even if you don’t consider yourself “religious”, Substance is a container to connect you to something bigger—hope, connection, and support.

The Father Hennepin Bluff Park offers direct access to footpaths and bridges that display a unique view of the Mississippi Gorge, the Downtown skyline, and the Stone Arch Bridge. A beautiful place for a long walk with a dog, a friend, or your thoughts along the Mississippi River.

The November Project is an accessible, high-energy running and workout group that’s welcoming and inclusive of everyone. They welcome new attendees with a personalized chant to pump them up before the start. November Project is on, regardless of weather, every Wednesday at 6:27 a.m. in Gold Medal Park.

Health is all about balance and feeding your soul. This Black-owned restaurant delivers on soul-nourishment, bringing in tastes and smells that elicit memories from previous generations. The Breakfast Bar is a whole vibe and tastes like my grandmother’s cooking. The collard greens and lobster mac and cheese are to die for. A salad isn’t always healthy—and in some cases—the opposite. I’d rather relish something homemade that feeds my soul over a salad any day.

Core Lifestyle in North Loop is a one-stop catch-all. They have chiropractic care and an infrared sauna—something every Minnesotan needs in the winter months. You can also get a massage, cupping, personal rehabilitation, or personal workout classes with some of the top trainers in the Twin Cities. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming. Each provider works with empathy and takes time to assess the needs of their patients.

Photos provided by Core Lifestyle

A lovely green space in the heart of downtown, The Commons offers views of both the US Bank Stadium and downtown skyline. I like to come here with a blanket, play catch with my dog, lay in the sun, sit with a snack, and people-watch. The sounds of the Metro train, with views of the skyline, is the best juxtaposition for meditation practice.

Corner Coffee is a small, quaint coffee shop with a neighborhood feel. Sit in a corner filled with greenery and plants for a moment to reflect. For me, health and wellness aren’t just movements, they’re about connection and reflection. I’ve had profound moments of journaling cozied up on one of their couches. Most importantly, as a transplant, I’ve had many meetings and conversations that have led to new connections that have kept me in Minneapolis.

Zesa Fitness is a studio like no other! Their unique approach to fitness uses patented rotation training equipment. I love that it challenges me with balance and functional training, encompassing strength, balance, and cardio all in one. They offer their signature Zesa Power & Strength class, as well as Zesa HIIT Hop, HIIT & Kick, and HIIT. The owner, Cindy, is an incredible community collaborator and creates such an inclusive community.

Nestled along the river, the Mississippi River Trail leads into a tucked away, secluded nature spot with bridges crossing streams of Mississippi waters. Whether in fall, when the colors of leaves burst, winter, with its snow-covered calm, or summer, when the path’s transformed into a vital greenery haven, it’s always a beautiful place for me and my dog to walk, any time of day.

Justin Reis took a leap of faith to pursue his dream of becoming an entrepreneur and building a brand that’s both an in-person and live-stream fitness and wellness experience. JUST has membership and corporate subscription options, including HIIT, Yoga, Meditation, JUST Run Club, and Wellness Education (including Nutrition, Physical Therapy, Life Coaching, and more). They employ 20 team members between San Antonio, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, and Minneapolis. In-person classes are held in the Hewing Hotel, which is always a beautiful location for a great sweat!