Get Your Mind Right

Get Your Mind Right

Balance. It’s the one thing in life that we are all seeking. It’s a sense of peace when it comes to work, relationships, family and life. Balance is quintessential to happiness, especially when you own your own business.

#thesavageway doing work!

#thesavageway doing work!

#thesavageway has been in business for 2.5 years now and man how time flies! Owning a business is a highly stressful thing at times. Though rewarding, there are times when things are overwhelming. Thinking about your product, sales goals, PR plan, accounting, receipt tracking, client relations, bills, 5-year growth plan, and much, much more is a 24/7 job. There isn’t an IT department to call or HR when there is an issue. You are dealing with EVERY aspect of the company. It is extremely easy to become addicted to your work – putting in 14-hour days, running on fumes and drinking way too much caffeine (thanks to NoDa for having so many amazing coffee shops!).

As a result, every 6 months or so, #thesavageway team does a “Get Your Mind Right” Challenge to bring back the balance to our lives. We both (Torrie and Paula) make a conscious effort to take a few weeks to clear our minds, treat our bodies as we should, and in turn become more productive and happy.

Now what exactly does getting one’s mind right mean? Don’t worry we have a very scientific formula. 😉

Parameters of “Getting Your Mind Right”

  • Healthy, Clean Eating! AKA No processed foods
  • Eat tons of vegetables
  • Be active everyday (exercise, walk the dogs, yoga, running)
  • Drink at least two liters of water per day
  • Save money (by cooking meals at home and not eating out)
  • No alcohol (but hey, let’s be real, red wine once a week is healthy, right?!)
  • Take time each day to focus on yourself (meditate, breathe, write in a journal, verbalize something you are grateful for in this awesome world)
Farmer's market haul by #thesavageway ladies. Eat local whenever possible!

Farmer’s market haul by #thesavageway ladies. Eat local whenever possible!

Torrie & Paula hanging at AIR for some much needed exercise!

Torrie & Paula hanging at AIR for some much needed exercise!

The beauty of “Getting Your Mind Right” is that there is nothing difficult about it. No tricks. It is simply making the time to treat YOU in the best way possible. This will be the third time that we have done the challenge. Every single time that we finish, we learn something new about ourselves. When you pause and pay attention to the nourishment you are giving to your body, it is so easy to see why we don’t always feel our best. When you put good things into your life, good things will return.

Being an entrepreneur is one of the greatest challenges yet one of the most rewarding experiences either of us has ever experienced. It is so easy to forget to take care of yourself because you’re the boss. There isn’t someone there to tell you to take a break or that it’s okay to have a sick day. When you push yourself to your mental limits everyday, it is easy to overindulge. Taking a few weeks to recharge and get into a balanced place in life is well worth it!

#thesavageway ladies (Paula & Torrie) doing what they do best.

#thesavageway ladies (Paula & Torrie) doing what they do best.

We have found success through this method and encourage you all to go out there and
“Get Your Mind Right” too!

Just Breathe

Just Breathe

This past weekend, we had the amazing opportunity to experience a breathwork class with the wonderful Jonathan Winn of Breathe.

Breathwork is an extremely powerful tool that focuses on the breath in order to heal each of us mentally, emotionally and physically. It is more than just everyday breathing. You go through a journey to relaxation and clarity.

Now it must be admitted that we did not really know what to expect walking into this Saturday morning workshop. We kept asking Jonathan and his clients what the breathwork experience was like, and the resounding response was that, “it’s indescribable, you must experience it for yourself.”

We walked into the Breathe studio (located in the Highland Mill Lofts in NoDa), with open hearts and open minds. The space is refreshingly simple and zen-like. We felt at peace. Jonathan talked about creating a refuge, a safe place with his work and he did just that.

Breathe studio located in the historic arts district of NoDa.

Breathe studio located in the historic arts district of NoDa.

We were in a room with 12 other people who were all looking for a relaxation tool.  Some were small business owners (like us), others were corporate lawyers and some teachers. Each of us a different walk of life yet each experiencing the stress and anxiety of life.

At the beginning of the workshop, Jonathan walked us through everything we needed to know. He told us of the ladder that we would climb and then descend all while breathing. There was music playing that aided in the experience. Each of us were wrapped in a blanket and had an eye mask over our eyes in order to block out all distractions. It felt safe.

Breathwork Workshop with Jonathan Winn, owner of Breathe.

Breathwork Workshop with Jonathan Winn, owner of Breathe.

The breathwork workshop was unlike anything either of us had ever experienced before. It was a moment to be completely focused on yourself and the stressors in your life. You go to a place in yourself that you didn’t even know was there. The root of who you are as a person. It’s true! Jonathan’s teaching of breathwork is indescribable and something that you MUST experience for yourself.

What we learned at the end of the workshop is that breathwork is so much more than learning how to breathe.  It was about embracing whatever happened (be it emotional or physical) in that moment and letting it go. Letting go by breathing through it. Life can be challenging and beyond stressful at times. Breathwork is a great, natural way to take an assessment of what you are feeling and using breath to get through.

Most of us are great at helping others and doing what we can to alleviate any stress from our loved one’s lives, but we aren’t so great at stopping and helping ourselves. Breathwork truly is life changing. Do yourself a favor and sign up Jonathan’s for the next workshop on November 8.

Breathe
Website
Location: 2901 N Davidson St #122 Charlotte NC
Next Workshop: Saturday, November 8, 2014, 10:30am-12pm
Twitter: @BreatheRefuge
Facebook: /BreatheRefuge

 

Clean Graffiti Kids – A Residential Service

Clean Graffiti Kids – A Residential Service

Calling all Moms and Dads, #thesavageway is proud to announce a new service for the Charlotte area. Coming to a driveway near you is our Clean Graffiti Kids, a residential service!

A row of #thesavageway's Clean Graffiti turtles lining a sidewalk in front of a home.

A row of #thesavageway’s Clean Graffiti turtles lining a sidewalk in front of a home.

Clean Graffiti is an eco-friendly and green form of messaging. We take kid-friendly images, saying & games and then strategically place them on dirty driveways, leaving a clean image. Not only is this medium all natural and eco-friendly, but it’s also a creative way to get your kids to play outside and use their imaginations.

Our newest team member is Sales Representative Liz Clark, supermom and amazing artist. She will work with you on design ideas, custom stencils and image placement! Liz will help turn your driveway into a work of art!

Liz Clark, Sales Representative for Clean Graffiti Kids, #thesavageway

Meet Liz, Clean Graffiti Kids Sales Representative for #thesavageway.

You know you’ve been there – your child asking for you to draw a butterfly with chalk in the driveway so he/she can color it in. Now picture your driveway with beautiful, clean images that the kids can color over and over again! #thesavageway’s Clean Graffiti can now come to your home and put down fun, creative artwork and custom messages on your driveway!

Dragons on the driveway. Clean Graffiti Kids by #thesavageway.

Dragons on the driveway. Clean Graffiti Kids by #thesavageway.

A Rose. Clean Graffiti Kids by #thesavageway.

A Rose. Clean Graffiti Kids by #thesavageway.

Clean Graffiti images can last anywhere from three months to a year, depending on a variety of factors. Your kids will be able to enjoy coloring outside over and over again! Our image possibilities are endless and we are able to customize stencils (think family monograms or announcements)! And the best part – it is just water! This is an all natural, eco-friendly medium.

Contact Sales Representative Liz Clark at [email protected] for more information and pricing.

Unexpected Motivation from the Sidewalks

Unexpected Motivation from the Sidewalks

Picture this. You’re running along your normal running path and you quickly approach that elusive runner’s wall that makes you want to stop and take a break. Then, all of a sudden you come across a message on the sidewalk that pushes you to finish the race.

“Today you will inspire someone. TRi-Yon Performance”

Clean Graffiti by #thesavageway/TRi-Yon Performance

Clean Graffiti campaign targeting runners in the Charlotte area sponsored by TRi-Yon Performance.

This is the scenario that local Charlotte celebrity and WBTV news anchor, Brigida Mack, found herself in a few weeks ago as she was training for a road race.

Mack posted on her hugely popular Facebook and Instagram accounts a Clean Graffiti message sponsored by TRi Yon Performance, “Saw this on my run this morning & it def got me through the second half of my 10K! #wordstoliveby #Hot100 #weberunning”

Clean Graffiti found by Charlotte celebrity Brigida Mack

Charlotte’s WBTV news anchor Brigida Mack spots Clean Graffiti on her run.

Clean Graffiti (also known as reverse graffiti) is an eco-friendly and green form of advertising. These branded, positive messages are strategically placed on dirty sidewalks and a clean message remains. Not only is this an innovative and creative way to get a business’ marketing initiatives out to the public in a place that you typically would not be able to have a logo or message, but there is no use of any harmful chemicals or sprays – It is just water!

TRi-Yon Performance and #thesavageway collaborated on this Clean Graffiti project to put down these inspirational running messages along popular running paths in Charlotte. The message was simple, “Today, you will inspire someone.”

“When you are training for a race, a lot of times you forget that what YOU are doing becomes an inspiration to others,” said Mack. “You are so focused on making it another mile, another day and eating clean that you forget the effect that your journey has on other people.”

Exercising is very much a mental activity, and that is exactly what trainer Jamey Yon was targeting when doing this Clean Graffiti campaign. He wanted his athletes to be surprised as they were on their normal running path. Clean Graffiti was an unexpected source of motivation to help push through to the finish line.

Mack agreed, “It was really cool to see! My first thought was how unique it was and once it settled in, it pushed me up the hill.”

The goal of this Clean Graffiti campaign was to give a little inspiration and positivity to Charlotte area athletes in an unexpected way. We would say it was a success! So the next time you are on your daily run, keep an eye out for that unexpected motivation from the sidewalks.

 

NoDa Represents on the Charlotte Brunch Scene

NoDa Represents on the Charlotte Brunch Scene

The weekend. Those two glorious days that we all long for during the work week. What is it about those Saturday and Sunday mornings? Maybe it’s the freedom to stay horizontal all day, or perhaps it’s the joy in knowing there is no need to sit in a cubicle from 9am-5pm. However, we think it just may be the fact that a new meal enters our lexicon on the weekend. Enter brunch – delicious, boozy brunch.

For a neighborhood that is known for being a hub for creative arts, craft beer and custom tattoos, NoDa is also representing on the Charlotte brunch scene. We are exploring the variety that NoDa has to offer for those perfect weekend meals.

Boudreaux’s Louisiana Kitchen
Brunch Offered: Saturday and Sunday, 11am-3pm
Menu: Offering a variety of authentic Cajun and seafood dishes including the Shrimp and Tasso Omelet, Eggs Benedict, Pancakes and more. Make sure to check their Facebook page for weekly Chef specials.
Cost: Inexpensive
Drink Specials: Must try the famous Bloody Mary Bar that runs from 12-3pm. Cajun Bloody Marys 1/2 price all day Sunday. Mimosas on special Sunday for $2.50.
Reservations: Recommended for groups of 3+ (Unless you would like to sit in Sanctuary Pub (sister bar) to watch the game).

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Beignets and mimosas at Boudreaux’s. Photo by @YelpCharlotte

Boudreaux’s Louisiana Kitchen
501 E. 36th St.
Charlotte NC, 28205
704.331.9898

JackBeagle’s
Brunch Offered: Saturday and Sunday, 8am-1pm
Menu: Neighborhood staples are plentiful, including a full Omelet Menu, Banana/Chocolate Chip Pancakes, Grilled Ribeye on Texas Toast w/ Sausage Gravy, Breakfast Hoagies and a variety of specials.
Cost: Inexpensive
Drink Specials: $5 Double Mimosas, $6 Double Bloody Marys and Daily Beer Specials (Local and Craft Beer Selection).
Entertainment: Stop in to watch your favorite team with the NFL Ticket or hang out on the patio and listen to some live music.

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Biscuits and gravy with applewood-smoked bacon and tots at Jack Beagle’s. Photo by @taylorsworld21

JackBeagle’s
3213 N Davidson St.
Charlotte NC, 28205
704.334.5140

Crepe Cellar Kitchen & Pub 
Brunch Offered: Sunday, 11am-3pm
Menu: Taking the traditional European street fare and adding that local touch, this brunch menu shines with items such as Kahlua Batter French Toast, Steak & Eggs and Smoked Salmon Crepes.
Cost: $8-$15
Drink Specials: Try the delicious French Press Coffee and enjoy a Bloody Mary or Mimosa after noon.

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Salmon Crepes at Crepe Cellar. Photo by @cturnip

Crepe Cellar Kitchen & Pub
3116 N. Davidson St.
Charlotte, NC 28205
704.910.6543

Heist Brewery
Brunch Offered: Sunday, 10am-2pm
Menu: This neighborhood brunch features twisted American cuisine at its finest. You never know what you will see on this buffet, but think You-Call-It Omelets, Caramelized Rum-Soaked Pineapple and Breakfast Flatbreads.
Cost: $19 (plus tax) All-You-Can-Eat buffet
Drink Specials: $12 Bottomless Mimosas, $3 Bloody Marys and a new small-batch craft beer release every week.
Entertainment: Catch up with your team at this brewpub via the NFL Ticket. If you’re a Panthers fan, note that game sound will always favor the hometown favorite. Stay for live music on the patio every Sunday starting at 5pm.

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Mussels at Heist Brewery. Photo by @_tasharenae_

Heist Brewery
2909 N. Davidson St. Suite 200
Charlotte, NC 28205
704.375.8260

Dolce Vita
Brunch Offered: Sunday, 12-7pm
Menu: Wafflepalooza. Yes, this wine bar offers Belgian waffles with fresh fruit, nuts, Nutella and more. Check out the Pizza Waffle, a house specialty. Also offering half price cheese pizzas.
Cost: $5, toppings are extra (fruit, Nutella, nuts, etc.)
Drink Specials: $2 select beer, $5 Fireball, and half price wine.

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Belgian Waffles at Dolce Vita. Photo by @dolcevitanoda

Dolce Vita
3205 N. Davidson St.
Charlotte, NC 28205
704.334.1052

Solstice Tavern
Brunch Offered: Sunday, 10am-4pm
Menu: This sports bar offers the brunch staples a la breakfast burritos, pancakes, French toast, bacon, sausage and eggs. Check out the Egg Nog Monte Cristo, a house favorite.
Cost: All items $8 and below
Drink Specials: $3 Mimosas, $5 Bloody Marys and $6 Sangrias (flavors vary).
Entertainment: A sports lovers dream with 29 flat screens – inside and on the patio. Watch all NFL and MLB Extra Innings games.

 

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Southern tea and patio sitting at Solstice Tavern. Photo by @h4rb

Solstice Tavern
3221 N. Davidson St.
Charlotte, NC 28205
704.342.2556

Amelie’s… A French Bakery
Brunch Offered: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year
Menu: A known local, dessert favorite (hello SCB), this French bistro should cross your mind when debating brunch. Menu includes everything from house made Quiche and Pain Perdu to Seasonal Salads and Berry Bowls.
Cost: Starts at $7.99
Drinks: Seasonal specials rule; currently featuring a house made Sparkling Blackberry Violet Lemonade and Honey Jasmine Iced Tea.
Entertainment: While not a sports haven, check out the atrium or event rooms for those special events (i.e. Bridal Showers to Birthday Parties).

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Spinach, bacon and mozzarella Pain Perdu at Amelie’s. Photo by @ameliesfrenchbakery

Amelie’s… A French Bakery
2424 N. Davidson St.
Charlotte, NC 28205
704.376.1781