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Welcome to The Local Wellness Connection with Dr. B.J. Hardick 🌿
We’re excited to bring you a curated roundup of local wellness events, inspiring stories, and healthy hot spots in and around the London-Middlesex area!
This month, we’re excited to feature a local leader in the health space—Christian Vemb, founder of the Longevity Lounge. Dr. B.J. Hardick sits down with Christian for a behind-the-scenes look at how this innovative wellness hub is helping Londoners optimize recovery, energy, and long-term vitality.
Plus, with outdoor farmers' markets now in full swing—including the beloved Covent Garden Market—it’s the perfect time to reconnect with local growers, explore fresh seasonal produce, and fuel your health from the ground up.
Let’s dive in and discover what’s fresh, local, and good for the soul. 👇
| | Community Feature: Longevity Lounge | | |
Resilience Through Rituals
A conversation with Christian Vemb, founder of Longevity Lounge
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Interview by Dr. B.J. Hardick
Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of knowing Christian Vemb and seeing him evolve from a passionate fitness professional into one of London, Ontario’s leading wellness entrepreneurs. After founding the internationally acclaimed Pulp & Press Juice Co., Christian shifted his focus toward recovery-based health practices—and opened Longevity Lounge, a cutting-edge contrast therapy studio that blends ancient traditions with modern science.
I sat down with Christian recently to talk about the path that led him to open Longevity Lounge, and why sauna, cold plunge, and red light therapy are more than just trends—they’re tools for a healthier life.
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Dr. B.J. Hardick (BJH) : Christian, let’s start from the beginning. Before Longevity Lounge, what led you into the world of health and wellness?
Christian Vemb (CV): I started out with a Health & Wellness certificate from Humber College and worked as a personal trainer in Toronto for about 10 years. When my partner and I moved to London, I didn’t want to rebuild a client base from scratch. But I was still coaching bootcamps and staying active. Eventually, I hired a business coach to help me figure out my next move, and that’s when we landed on juicing. It started small—just delivering cleanses in London and Toronto—and then evolved into Pulp & Press, which I co-owned for eight years. After stepping back, I focused on my own health and family, and that’s when I got hooked on contrast therapy. I was doing it daily at home, and I just knew—if I didn’t open something like Longevity Lounge, someone else would.
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BJH: You’ve definitely been ahead of the curve. Let’s break down what Longevity Lounge offers. Most people are familiar with saunas, but what are the main health benefits you see from consistent sauna use?
CV: The biggest benefit people report is improved recovery—whether it’s from workouts or a cold or flu. Sauna increases circulation, moves oxygen and blood faster, and helps flush out lactic acid. Regular use lets people bounce back faster. Science shows that just 56 minutes a week in a sauna between 175°F and 205°F can make a measurable impact.
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BJH: And then there’s the cold plunge—which is a bit more intimidating for newcomers. What sets cold exposure apart?
CV: Cold plunging triggers your body’s fight-or-flight response, which activates cold shock proteins. These proteins help with inflammation, flush out free radicals, and assist in muscle recovery and protein synthesis. It also activates brown fat, which burns more calories, and helps the body reheat itself after exposure. It’s not easy, but even just one minute can make a massive difference in mood, energy, and resilience.
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BJH: I can vouch for that. I used to be the guy who wouldn’t even dip past his knees in a cold pool. Now I’m hooked. But how do new clients typically start?
CV: I always tell people: Start with a minute. That’s it. I can’t promise it’ll be easy, but I can promise you’ll feel amazing. And once you get back into the sauna, you feel this euphoric contrast. People often build from there and eventually do 3 to 5 minutes. But that first minute? That’s where the transformation begins.
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BJH: Red light therapy is another piece you’ve introduced. What led you to add it, and what does it actually do?
CV: I wanted to offer something that complemented the sauna and cold plunge, and red light therapy stood out. The red LEDs help with skin issues—acne, eczema, rosacea, wrinkles—by boosting collagen. But the near-infrared wavelengths go deeper and charge the mitochondria in your cells, which improves energy, recovery, and cellular health. It’s one of the most versatile therapies we offer.
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BJH: You must have heard some powerful stories. Can you share a couple of examples of how these therapies have helped your clients?
CV: Absolutely. I’ve had clients with chronic injuries or long-term pain tell me their symptoms dramatically improve after sessions—and some say they feel completely pain-free for days afterward. But it’s not just physical. People talk about building mental resilience too. That moment when you overcome the discomfort of a cold plunge? It spills into other areas of life. I’ve had clients say they now face challenges with more confidence—whether it’s a tough workday or a personal goal they were scared to take on.
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BJH: What’s a good starting routine for someone who wants to maintain wellness, without going all-in?
CV: If once a week isn’t realistic, aim for two to three sessions per month. That’s enough to give your system a noticeable boost. And don’t forget—sauna and cold plunge release a rush of endorphins, reduce stress, improve mood, and help with sleep. It's powerful stuff.
| | Christian Vemb, founder of Longevity Lounge | | |
BJH: I’ve definitely experienced all that firsthand. I now listen to podcasts in the sauna—time I’ve reclaimed for learning and personal growth. And instead of meeting friends for coffee, I’ll say: “Let’s go do a sauna together.” It’s more intentional, and more impactful.
What’s next for Longevity Lounge?
CV: We’re about to launch a new service: compression therapy boots. You’ll sit back in a recliner while these boots compress your legs from feet to hips, boosting circulation and clearing waste from the muscles. Great for recovery. Beyond that—keep an eye out. We’re planning additional locations in the next 9–12 months.
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BJH: I love it. Christian, you’ve brought proactive, recovery-first health concepts to London and beyond. You’ve always been on the front end of what’s next in wellness. Thanks for sharing your story—and for helping so many people build resilience through these incredible rituals.
CV: Thanks, B.J. Always great chatting. And thanks for being a client since day one.
| | Learn more and take a plunge with the Longevity Lounge for yourself. located near Richmond St and Sunningdale Rd - longevitylounge.ca | | 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.
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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. | | | | |
