Nourish Your Body and Soul This Summer in Calgary
Summer is finally here! We thought it would be a good time to share some fun and inclusive spaces that you may or may not have heard about in Calgary!
The changing of seasons can sometimes heighten our awareness of our bodies and it can be tempting to think about starting a “lifestyle change” or intense fitness regime. Instead of this, maybe summer can be a time to focus on moving our bodies in ways that feel good, trying out new food/drink spots, socializing with our family and friends or maybe taking the next step in seeking out mental health support.
Here are some of our favorite spots :
1) Every Body STRONGER
What is it? A hyper-inclusive fitness community created to support folks of all abilities, sizes, and identities. Every Body STRONGER was formed in 2017 and is committed to providing a weight-neutral space to explore movement. Whether you’re new to fitness or have more experience, you’ll find warm and welcoming trainers that will meet you where you’re at.
Services: Personal training, small group training, app-based support, physical activity counseling
Where? 1A 2501 Alyth Rd SE Calgary, AB
Contact: https://www.everybodystronger.com/
2) Being Human Club
What is it? A collective mental health space founded on feminist and trauma informed practices. The humans who work here are dedicated to social justice and anti-racist work. Being Human Club has several therapists so there’s a strong chance you’ll be able to find a good fit if you’ve been looking for support! You might even run into one of the non-human members, basset hound, Svend!
Services: 1:1 therapy (psychology, counseling and social work), nutrition therapy
Where? 224 11 Ave SW #301, Calgary, AB
Contact: https://beinghumanclub.com/
3) Annex Ale Project
What is it? A local brewery and taproom with something for everyone! Whether you like trying new beers or would prefer one of their craft sodas or non-alcoholic cocktails- they’ve got you. You will also be able to eat some yummy food from Lil Empire Burger in the taproom. We love their guiding principles of inclusivity, collaboration, community, and sustainability.
Where? 4323 1st St. S.E. Calgary, AB
Contact: https://www.annexales.com/
4) Bell’s Café
What is it? A local and queer owned cozy café nestled just outside of the Marda Loop neighborhood. You’ll find delicious coffee, specialty drinks, homemade treats, and sandwiches. They have vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options. The café also showcases local art for sale! Whether you’re in need of a safe, inviting workspace or a good vibe to meet up with friends, this café has it all.
Where? 1515 34 Ave SW, Calgary, AB
Contact: @bellscafeyyc
5) Village Ice Cream
What is it? A Calgary favourite, this local small batch ice cream franchise is dedicated to curating delicious ice cream. They have their popular “always” flavours (Piper’s favourite is melted chocolate) as well as new seasonal scoops if you’re looking to experiment! There are gluten free and vegan options as well. Village ice cream is committed to providing an inclusive culture and celebrating the diversity within Calgary by regularly giving back to community initiatives.
Where? Locations in Victoria Park, Garrison Green, Britannia Plaza, Bridgeland and University District
Contact: https://villageicecream.com/
We hold immense gratitude for being able to support humans in the Treaty 7 region, and acknowledge the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina, the îethka Nakoda Nations (Chiniki, Bearspaw, Goodstoney), the Otipemisiwak Métis Government (Districts 5 and 6), and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.
If you check out any of the above places this summer - let us know on Instagram! We love being in community with each and every human that comes across TNC.
P.S. Annex Ale Project, Being Human Club, Bell’s Café and Everybody Stronger are proudly members of Skipping Stone’s Trans Affirming Network.
Written by Piper Menini, RD