Health & Wellness
Winning at the Game of Life in Peachtree Corners
A brief chat with Gerrie Wydeven makes you want to be her when you grow up. Turning 72 this March, she admittedly struggles to call herself a senior. It could be because she is the poster woman for someone who has done life right for a long time, and is continuing to live it to the fullest, reaping the rewards of her good habits into her retirement years.
Wydeven has been making fitness a priority for over 30 years, alternating exercises to include strength training, stretching and aerobics. “My favorite gym activity was attending different classes at the old Gold’s Gym, and the two subsequent buyouts. Now I do a similar routine at home four to five times a week since the gym has closed,” she said.
She and her husband, Tim Nolan, walk two to three miles four to five times a week — usually in their neighborhood, yet they also drive to various Gwinnett and Fulton parks for a change of scenery.
Along with working out, making small tweaks to her diet like eliminating sugar in coffee, limiting the use of butter and oils, reducing sodium, maximizing proteins, minimizing carbs and limiting unhealthy choices have kept her at a healthy weight. “I try to eat the magical foods like blueberries, spinach and nuts as often as possible,” Wydeven added.
Rolling with the punches
A broken foot from slipping on the stairs — a common injury among mature adults — has caused Wydeven to tread more carefully on steps or any uneven surface. She added balancing exercises to her routine and invested in better walking shoes.
Gerrie Wydeven and Tim Nolan enjoying a 2020 trip to a Roman ruin in Jerash, Jordan 
The couple enjoying outdoor dining at Grace 1720 in 2020 
Wydeven and Nolan in Jerash, Jordan, visiting Roman ruins in 2020 during their last international trip before the pandemic 
Wydeven waiting for Sunset during a camel ride in the Moroccan Dessert 2019
Keep an active mind
Wydeven considers herself a lifelong learner. “I love discoveries that make me appreciate the wonders of this world and recognize that there’s so much more to know and incorporate in my worldview,” she said.
Free online courses available from Yale and Harvard have stirred her curiosity. She’s taken about 14 over the years. Of note were two Yale courses: Epidemics in Western Society since 1600 (useful given our recent COVID experience) and African American History — Emancipation to the Present. A favorite Harvard course is Justice. “Everyone can do these courses at their own pace; they’re easy to access,” Wydeven said.
An avid reader, Wydeven read almost 80 books last year. She belongs to her neighborhood book club and is a voracious user of the local library.
Feed your soul
Wydeven and Nolan travel both domestically and abroad more than most. She sites Mark Twain in defense of her wanderlust: “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness.” Some favorite destinations include Istanbul, Morocco, San Francisco, Peru, Amsterdam and Paris.
When traveling, they opt for walking tours and visits to parks and gardens. They’ve taken over 30 in San Francisco alone. “Walking tours wonderfully combine exercise and learning experiences,” Wydeven said.
Hobbies
A passion for scrapbooking and photography collided in the creation of over 40 travel journals over the past 15 years. Last year’s journals highlighted the mini and domestic trips they were limited to because of COVID. Wydeven enjoys using Facebook to share her photographs too.
Relationships – the secret to healthy aging
“My husband, daughter, son and their families/significant others give me joy every day — they are the reason I am a happy camper and very seldom get down. I have a close relationship with my sister as well,” Wydeven shared.
She maintains friendships throughout the country from her days of traveling for work as a senior manager with the federal government.
Purpose
Finding meaningful things to do with your newfound time after retirement is key to aging well. Wydeven Designs was her business finding, refurbishing and selling heirloom quality upholstered furniture.
“For 15 years, I scoured estate and garage sales, Craigslist and thrift shops to find high-quality, reasonably priced chairs, settees, chaises, loveseats and ottomans,” she said. “I bought discounted fabrics, learned how to chalk paint, developed relationships with the upholstery shop, shippers, woodwork refinishers and clients throughout the country. I loved doing this and was always amazed with the before and after transformations and the joy of happy customers! Over this period, I maintained three different websites and a blog, selling through Etsy, eBay, One King’s Lane and directly.”
Art classes are something she’s had time for since retiring. She’s been sketching with colored pencils for ages and sells her work online. “I need something to motivate me to create this art. Another adventure to keep me busy,” Wydeven smiled. Her artwork is available at etsy.com/shop/WydevenDesigns.
The Forum in Peachtree Corners features a variety of businesses focused on health and wellness, offering services designed to meet individual needs. From fitness programs and recovery treatments to relaxation and aesthetic care, each business prioritizes physical and mental well-being.
StretchLab
StretchLab offers personalized stretching sessions to improve flexibility, mobility and overall physical health. Each client’s journey begins with a focus on their goals, whether it’s enhancing athletic performance, reducing stress or relieving pain.
“We dive into understanding each individual’s physical and mental needs to craft the perfect stretch experience,” said franchise owner Ghada Kheirbek.
StretchLab’s MAPS technology sets it apart, analyzing Mobility, Activation, Posture and Symmetry using advanced tools. This allows flexologists to create custom plans tailored to individual progress. Sessions incorporate Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) techniques, combining muscle activation and deep stretching for long-term results.
“Our approach focuses on areas you can’t stretch on your own, unlocking better movement and relief,” Kheirbek explained.
Community engagement is a priority, with partnerships with local schools, yoga studios and organizations.
StretchLab is located at 4880 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 1125, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092. For more information or to schedule a session, visit stretchlab.com/location/peachtree-corners or call (470) 410-6664.
Dermani MedSpa
Dermani MedSpa provides medical-grade aesthetic treatments, including facials, Botox and laser hair removal. The medspa focuses on enhancing natural beauty while prioritizing safety and comfort, offering services performed by highly trained staff in a professional, welcoming environment.
Each treatment is tailored to individual needs, ensuring clients achieve results aligned with their goals. Clients value the medspa’s attention to detail and commitment to quality, making it a trusted choice for aesthetic care.
“Dermani offers a variety of medical-based aesthetic treatments,” said Charlotte Hinton, marketing manager at Jamestown, The Forum. “Outside of just loving their team as a whole — their girls are the best — my colleagues and I love to see them for facials, Botox and laser hair removal.”
The medspa’s reliable, results-driven services cater to clients seeking everything from routine skin maintenance to advanced aesthetic solutions.
Dermani MedSpa is located at 5165 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 230, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092. To schedule an appointment or learn more, visit dermanimedspa.com/peachtree-corners-norcross or call (404) 383-1108.
The NOW Massage
The NOW Massage is more than just a spa; it’s a tranquil retreat designed to help clients disconnect from daily stress and reconnect within. The massage studio has a serene atmosphere inspired by beachside destinations.
“In today’s fast-paced, digitally driven world, self-care is no longer a luxury but a necessity,” said Gara Post, co-founder of The NOW Massage.
The NOW’s thoughtfully curated menu features three signature massages: The NOW, a relaxation-focused experience; The HEALER, which balances energy and reduces stress; and The STRETCH, a recovery-focused massage ideal for active lifestyles. Enhancements like Herbal Heat Therapy, Deep Tissue and Gua Sha allow clients to customize their experience.
“Our therapists undergo advanced training to ensure each session is tailored to individual needs,” explained Devin Borland, franchise owner.
Community involvement is central to The NOW’s mission. The studio supports first responders, recognizes educators and participates in local wellness events. “We’re proud to be part of the Peachtree Corners community,” Borland added.
The NOW Massage is located at 5161 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 615, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092. For appointments, visit thenowmassage.com/peachtree-corners or call (678) 615-3375.
Alloy Personal Training
Alloy Personal Training is redefining fitness in Peachtree Corners with a personalized approach tailored to help clients achieve lasting health and wellness.
“Our goal is to create a sustainable fitness journey for every individual, no matter where they’re starting,” said Margaret Bruemmer, fitness director at Alloy Personal Training.
At the heart of Alloy’s method is the Functional Movement Screen (FMS), a comprehensive evaluation tool that assesses a client’s current fitness level. This process ensures that every workout is not only effective but also safe.
“We use FMS to identify a client’s unique needs and design a program that works for them,” Bruemmer explained.
Trainers provide one-on-one guidance, helping clients navigate structured routines that focus on proper form, technique and measurable progress. Each session builds confidence while addressing individual health goals.
Located at 4880 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 1135, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092, Alloy Personal Training offers flexible hours to accommodate clients’ busy lifestyles. To learn more or schedule a consultation, visit alloypersonaltraining.com/location/alloy-peachtree-corners-ga or call (678) 578-4984.
Club Pilates
Club Pilates combines timeless Pilates principles with innovative techniques to offer a holistic approach to fitness and wellness. The studio provides a welcoming environment for clients of all fitness levels, ensuring that everyone can benefit from the practice.
“Pilates is about more than just fitness — it’s about helping our members discover balance, both physically and mentally,” said Victoria Steere, director of community engagement.
Each class is tailored to individual needs, with certified instructors guiding clients through sessions that improve posture, core strength and overall body awareness. Whether it’s a high-energy cardio class or a gentle stretch-focused session, Club Pilates helps clients achieve their fitness goals while promoting mindfulness and intentional movement.
“Many of our members describe their time here as an essential hour of self-care, a break from their busy lives,” Steere added.
By integrating physical and mental balance into its classes, Club Pilates empowers clients to leave each session feeling stronger, more confident and recharged.
The studio is located at 4880 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 1130, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092. For more information or to schedule a session, visit clubpilates.com/location/peachtreecorners or call (404) 902-2583.
Icebox Cryotherapy
Icebox Cryotherapy brings innovative recovery and wellness treatments to Peachtree Corners, offering clients a practical way to rejuvenate their bodies and manage stress. Specializing in full-body cryotherapy, cryofacials and compression therapy, the studio is a haven for those seeking to reduce inflammation, improve circulation and enhance overall physical performance.
Full-body cryotherapy sessions expose the body to controlled cold temperatures, stimulating a natural response that accelerates recovery and reduces tension. Cryofacials, on the other hand, provide a gentle way to refresh the skin, diminish puffiness and promote a youthful glow. For athletes or individuals managing chronic muscle stress, compression therapy targets specific areas to relieve tension and improve mobility.
“They’re a fantastic option for anyone looking to rejuvenate their skin while managing stress,” shared Hinton.
Located at 4880 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 1120B, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092, Icebox Cryotherapy invites clients to experience their transformative services. For appointments or more information, visit iceboxtherapy.com/peachtree-corners-ga or call (678) 284-2570.
Perspire Sauna Studio
Perspire Sauna Studio is set to redefine wellness in Peachtree Corners, combining ancient practices with modern technology to create a sanctuary for self-care. Offering infrared sauna therapy, red-light therapy and contrast therapy, the studio is designed to help clients detox, de-stress and recharge.
“We’re bringing cutting-edge wellness options to the community, creating a space where self-care becomes a part of your weekly routine,” said Amanda Arboleda Ridley, studio owner.
Infrared saunas use controlled heat to promote detoxification and improve circulation, providing both physical and mental health benefits. Red-light therapy enhances skin health and stimulates cellular repair, while contrast therapy alternates between hot and cold treatments to invigorate the body and strengthen the immune system.
“Whether it’s a deep detox, improving your skin or just carving out 40 minutes of uninterrupted ‘you’ time, we help clients feel their best,” Ridley explained.
For those seeking a tranquil environment to reset and recharge, Perspire Sauna Studio offers a personalized experience tailored to individual wellness goals.
The studio will be located at 4880 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 1120A, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092. For updates and inquiries, visit their website, perspiresaunastudio.com/ga/peachtree-corners, or contact them directly.
Grand opening set for October 21
The NOW Massage, a growing wellness franchise offering high-quality, affordable massage services in a chic, inspired setting, will open its first Peachtree Corners location on Monday, October 21. The boutique, located in a 2,414-square-foot space at The Forum, is owned and operated by area residents Devin and Amanda Borland, who also own and operate The NOW Massage Roswell. They bring over a decade of sales and customer service experience to their franchising journey with The NOW.
“After building a loyal following of guests and Ritual Members at our Roswell boutique, we look forward to introducing Peachtree Corners to The NOW’s menu of customizable massages, monthly memberships and nourishing products,” said Devin.
Each The NOW Massage location is designed with a minimalist aesthetic that incorporates raw elements and natural materials to create a soothing oasis. Interiors feature natural wood surfaces and exposed beams coupled with sheep skins and rawhides, cactus galleries and crystal grids, setting the tone for a relaxing experience.
Grand opening specials
To celebrate the boutique’s grand opening week from October 21–28, all massage bookings will receive a complimentary enhancement. Guests can choose from two of The NOW’s best-selling signature add-on treatments to amplify their therapeutic massage, including Herbal Heat Therapy, in which heat packs are used on the neck and back during treatment to provide a deeper sense of relaxation or Fresh Eyes, a soothing, hydrating eye mask with vitamins and antioxidants.
For guests who want to make massage a regular part of their monthly or bi-monthly self-care routine, The NOW also offers Ritual Membership packages that include savings on massages, roll over credits, perks and more.
The first 50 guests to join as a Ritual Member at the Peachtree Corners location will receive a complimentary curated gift bag filled with a selection of best-selling products from the company’s Nourish, Scent and Room collections.
With boutiques currently open from coast to coast and steady expansion on the horizon, The NOW Massage is excited to bring its thoughtfully crafted menu, healing products and signature design to The Forum in Peachtree Corners and to other cities across the United States.
For more information or to book a massage, visit thenowmassage.com/peachtree-corners.
Peachtree Corners Adopts New Plan for the Central Business District
Luxury Firewood Company Founder Shares Story of Entrepreneurial Pursuits
From the Mayor’s Desk: Looking Back at Business in 2024
From Brooklyn to Belfast: A Peacemaker’s Story
Recreational Soccer Club Celebrates 50 Years of Play
Peachtree Corners Business Association donates $3500 to Spectrum Autism
Health and Wellness at The Forum
Health and Wellness at The Forum
Recreational Soccer Club Celebrates 50 Years of Play
Peachtree Corners Business Association donates $3500 to Spectrum Autism
From Brooklyn to Belfast: A Peacemaker’s Story
From the Mayor’s Desk: Looking Back at Business in 2024
Peachtree Corners Adopts New Plan for the Central Business District
Luxury Firewood Company Founder Shares Story of Entrepreneurial Pursuits
Faces of Peachtree Corners 2024
Light up the Corners [Video]
Capitalist Sage: Business Leadership in Your Community [Podcast]
Cliff Bramble: A Culinary Adventure through Italy
Top 10 Brunch Places in Gwinnett County
A Hunger for Hospitality
THE CORNERS EPISODE 3 – BLAXICAN PART 1
Top 10 Indoor Things To Do This Winter
The ED Hour: What it takes to Remove Barriers from Education
