Welcome to The Local Wellness Connection with Dr. B.J. Hardick 🌿



Your go-to source for fresh finds, vibrant community stories, and healthy inspiration from right here in the London-Middlesex region.

This month, Dr. B.J. Hardick sits down with Heather McEachern-Tarasick, co-owner of The Run Parlour in Old East Village—a boutique run specialty store built on movement, mindfulness, and meaningful connection. From learning to run at 38 to qualifying for the Boston Marathon, Heather’s journey is a powerful reminder that resilience can begin with a single step.

Community Feature: The Run Parlour

Running with Intention

A conversation with Heather McEachern-Tarasick of The Run Parlour

Dr. B.J. Hardick (BJH): I had no idea you had a background in running when you were photographing us years ago. When did running become part of your life?

Heather McEachern-Tarasick (HMT): I’m actually a late bloomer. I briefly ran in elementary school—until I threw up crossing the finish line at regionals! That ended it for almost 25 years. It wasn’t until I was 38, after some major life changes and the loss of my mom, that I needed something to anchor me. I downloaded a Couch to 5K app with a friend and we just decided—today’s the day. I walked out my front door and started running. That was seven years ago, and I haven’t stopped since.

BJH: Did running stick right away?

HMT: It did, and not because I was naturally gifted at it. At first, I could barely run for a minute. But it gave me something that was just mine—physically, mentally, emotionally. It became a form of therapy. I went from a 5K to saying, “Okay, maybe a 10K.” Then a half. Then, during the COVID pandemic, when all the races were cancelled, I ran my own virtual half marathon. My kids made signs, and we did the Forest City Road Races route. And eventually, in 2023, I ran my first marathon—and qualified for the Boston Marathon. First try.

BJH: That’s remarkable. When did the idea for The Run Parlour take shape?

HMT: My business partner, Pete Meads, owns a running apparel brand. I started photographing his line, and we worked well together. He saw a big gap between Owen Sound, Sarnia, and Kitchener—so he opened a store in Clinton in 2023. That got the ball rolling. I joined the team to open a London location, and we launched The Run Parlour in Old East Village. It’s a central, walkable, community-focused spot—exactly what we were looking for.

BJH: What kind of customer do you see walking through the door?

HMT: All kinds. We welcome new runners, experienced marathoners, casual walkers, and individuals seeking thoughtful service and a great-fitting shoe. We’re a boutique-run specialty store, so we carry big names like New Balance, Saucony, ASICS, and Brooks—but we’ve also curated unique brands like Bandit from Brooklyn, Balmoral from Montreal, and SAYSKY from Denmark. We aim to offer something different—products with intention, stories, and purpose.

BJH: I can say from personal experience—you guided me through choosing a shoe in a very specific way. What’s your approach?

HMT: Every runner is unique, so the process should be too. We ask about your experience level, your goals, how you run (trail vs. road, short vs. long), any foot issues, what kind of feel you like, and what you’re training for. In your case, we focused on transitioning from heel striking to a more midfoot strike, so we selected a rocker-style shoe that would support this approach. It’s about education and partnership—not just asking how it “feels.”

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BJH: What struck me was your holistic philosophy. Running isn’t the whole picture—it’s part of one. How does that show up in the store?

HMT: We really believe health is mind, body, and spirit. Running can be a portal into that. That’s why we offer more than just gear. We run learn-to-run programs that focus on mindfulness, proper nutrition, strength training, recovery, and breathwork. We host mobility flow classes right in the store, as well as monthly breathwork sessions. We’ve done workshops with sports nutritionists, and we’re eager to collaborate with other local health experts. It’s about full-spectrum wellness, not just pace and mileage.

BJH: I used to preach that high-intensity training was the only real fitness tool—and that marathon running just burned people out. I’ve softened my stance a bit. How do you address concerns like that?

HMT: It comes down to your why. Are you running to prove something? To heal? To grow? Marathon training isn’t for everyone, and not all the time. I actually broke my ankle this past December—and I took that as the universe telling me to slow down. When I trained for my marathon, I had a team: a run coach, a strength coach, a nutritionist, a physiotherapist, fascial stretch therapy. I didn’t lose muscle mass, I stayed injury-free, and I felt strong because I took a balanced, mindful approach. You need recovery. You need support. Running alone doesn’t cut it—but it can still be powerful when you do it right.

BJH: And finally—what’s your message to someone thinking about lacing up a pair of running shoes for the first time in five or ten years?

HMT: If I can do it, anyone can. You don’t have to be fast. You don’t need to be competitive. You just need to start. And we’ll be here to help you every step of the way.

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The Run Parlous offers running groups, advice, tips, apparel, and shoe plus so much more. Find them at 1010 Dundas Street, London ON, Canada or online at runparlour.com.

Shop Local, Eat Fresh – London’s Best Farmers’ Markets

There’s something deeply grounding about shaking hands with the person who grew your tomatoes or baked your sourdough. Supporting local farmers' markets isn’t just about finding fresh, seasonal food — it’s about building connections with the people who grow, raise, and make what nourishes us.

When we choose food that’s grown close to home, we support family-run farms, reduce our environmental footprint, and invest in a healthier, more vibrant local economy. Whether you’re filling your tote with crisp veggies, sipping on handcrafted kombucha, or chatting with a beekeeper about honey varieties — each moment spent at a farmers’ market helps grow a stronger, more resilient community.

Here are 6 local farmers’ markets in and around London, Ontario to visit this summer — each one with something special to offer.

Located in downtown London, Covent Garden’s Outdoor Farmers’ Market has been a Saturday morning favourite for generations. As one of the city’s oldest public markets, it brings together farm-fresh produce, local artisans, and live music in a lively community atmosphere. Look for standout vendors like Sungold Market Garden and Clovermead Honey for fresh greens and raw honey samplers.

When: Saturdays, April 19 – June 28, 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Where: Market Lane, between Covent Garden Market and Dundas Place

Set against the backdrop of the Komoka Wellness Centre, this market is a small-town gem with a big heart. You’ll find everything from homegrown veggies and local meats to hand-poured candles and homemade preserves. Don’t miss The Whole Grain Hearth, a vendor known for their naturally leavened sourdough and buttery croissants — often sold out before noon!

When: Saturdays, May 17 – October 11, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Where: Komoka Wellness Centre, 1 Tunks Lane, Komoka

Housed in the historic Confederation Building, this bustling year-round indoor market is one of the most diverse in the region. The Market at Western Fair District brings together over 100 vendors under one roof.. A favourite stop is Mark’s Fine Meats, where you'll find grass-fed cuts and house-made sausages. It’s also one of the few markets in London open both Saturday and Sunday, making it perfect for a weekend grocery haul or leisurely brunch.

When:

• Saturdays, 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM

• Sundays, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Where: 900 King Street, London

Located in the north end of the city, this vibrant outdoor market pops up in the Masonville Place parking lot every Friday, drawing a loyal community crowd. Be sure to stop by Three Sisters Farm for their organic vegetables, or grab a gluten-free treat from Lynch Maple Farms, a hidden gem among the vendors.

When: Fridays, May – October, 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Where: Masonville Place parking lot, 1680 Richmond Street North

Just a short drive north of London, the Ilderton Farmers’ Market offers a charming country vibe with a strong sense of community. Located in a growing rural town, this market has blossomed into a Saturday morning staple with over 25 vendors. Expect seasonal produce, fresh baking, handmade crafts, and a warm welcome from familiar faces. A must-visit stop is Cedar Villa Apiary for small-batch honey and beeswax candles made just down the road.

When: Saturdays, June 7 – October 11, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Where: 100 Meadowcreek Drive, Ilderton

Hosted in the heart of London’s first net-zero community, the West 5 Market is more than a produce stop — it’s an experience. Set in Legacy Square, this weekly Thursday market features fresh local produce alongside artisan goods, live music, and community-building events. Monthly Community Market Days go even bigger with food trucks, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Look for Junction Growers, known for their beautifully curated microgreens and edible flowers.

When: Saturdays, June 7 – October 11, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Where: 100 Meadowcreek Drive, Ilderton

Whether you’re after farm-fresh eggs, handcrafted soaps, or just a good cup of market coffee — every visit supports local families and strengthens our community.

Which market is your favourite stop this season?

This information is provided for non-diagnostic and educational purposes only, and is not a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. This information should not be considered complete, nor should it be relied upon to suggest a course of treatment for a particular individual. Dr. B.J. Hardick is a Doctor of Chiropractic and is not a Medical Doctor. You should not use this information or information on Dr. Hardick’s website to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, or to determine your need for medication or treatment. Always consult your healthcare professional before adjusting any diet, exercise or medical regimens.