Hear from Kathryn Friel, owner of Twin Ponds Holistic Health and therapy practice Nickischer & Associates, on her wellness routines and habits. Friel shares the important role meditation, massage and getting outside in nature plays in her life. She also talks about her love for coffee, how she indulges in a spicy margarita on the weekend and shares her favorite tofu dish in the Valley.
How would you describe your personal philosophy when it comesto overall wellness?
Wellness, in my opinion, is how I feel day-to-day, and how truly present I can be in any given situation without allowing physiological or psychological discomfort to lead me away from the moment.
Twin Ponds Holistic Health offers healing in multiple modalities with the goal of achieving mind and body contentment. How would you describe mind and body contentment?
The ability to have moments, even if they are brief, of clarity, contentment and calm. An awareness of nature and the gift that is everyday life. Acknowledgement of physical limitations that we might have and a hope that we can truly experience spontaneous happiness, even when we are aware that our body might not do what we hoped that it would.
What are some of the modalities you personally practice?
Meditation in all forms, including walking meditation. I’ve been a certified yoga instructor since 1999 and continue to practice the lifestyle. I believe in the power of massage therapy, energy work, Reiki, Ayurvedics—everything at Twin Ponds. I see how the practitioners herepour themselves into their work with the intention of helping and healing others, and it’s a privilege to witness the positive outcomes.
… meditation offers the gift of mindfulness and the ability to lead with self.
Is there one modality that you think works for everyone? Or perhaps, one you would recommend to a beginner?
Massage therapy and meditation are two modalities that can work for every being. The healing power of touch is real. And meditation offers the gift of mindfulness and the ability to lead with self.
Describe your morning routine. Is there anything you simply can’t start your day without?
I fast until noon most days, so mornings revolve around water with lemon and strong coffee. Everything about coffee is soothing to my system and I’ll never give it up.
How about your nighttime routine?
I’m not great at sleeping, so my evening self-care welcomes movement. I walk my dog, or my daughter and I spend time caring for and bonding with the horses at Manito Life Center, where we volunteer. Moving feels right, and connecting with animals in the beautiful outdoors is a gift. I also love salt and essential oil baths, which are always a treat.
What are a few healthy habits you try to practice throughout the day?
I drink a lot of water. I practice abundance mindset by reminding myself of the simple and good things in my life like health, family and nature. I stop whenever I need to in order to take deep breaths and ground myself. This is such a simple act but it is an instant reset that allows me to prepare my system to approach any stressful situation without reactivity.
What’s your favorite healthy meal to make at home?
I’m a fan of Tieghan Gerard’s Half-Baked Harvest cookbooks and blog. One of my favorite recipes of hers is a salad of arugula, roasted chickpeas, roasted cauliflower, topped with fried feta cheese and homemade green goddess dressing. Amazing!
What are your favorite eateries and restaurants to visit in the Lehigh Valley for a good meal?
Truth be told, I do a lot of at-home cooking because I have three children. I feel that I’m missing a lot of amazing places simply because I’m not out much. My husband and I love Cumin N Eat. My daughter and I enjoy a vegetarian poke bowl at Poke Kai, and the tofu appetizer at Grille 3501 is amazing.
What’s something that you love to indulge in?
An espresso every day at 3 p.m. and a spicy margarita on the weekend.
Where are some of your favorite places to visit in the Valley?
Manito Life Center. (I just need to hug a horse sometimes.) Dorothy Rider Pool Wildlife Sanctuary along with any of our beautiful local parks.
When it comes to mental health, do you have any practices or daily habits?
I’m an Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist and the internal work I do is ongoing. I’m always striving to be self-led in my interactions with others and maintain my own personal boundaries. A daily habit I have committed to is taking in the beauty of nature.
How do you stay motivated?
It’s never been a question or an option. A legacy gift that I’ve inherited is a strong desire to work and produce. Following that intrinsic push just feels right.
Who is someone you look up to?
My father. He has been a true environmentalist his entire life and appreciates the beauty that comes from a simple life.
What would your advice be to someone struggling to find a wellness routine that works for them?
In everything you do, simplify. Put down the phone. Stop the constant comparisons. Cease compulsive consumption of items. Listen to what feels right for your system. Daily movement, hydration, positive people and food that is simple and healthy might be all that one needs.
628 Twin Ponds Rd., Breinigsville | 610.899.2499 | twinpondsholistic.com
Published as “Living Well With” in the October 2023 edition of Lehigh Valley Style magazine.
