As bright blue skies give way to biting temperatures and rainy weather, it can be a challenge to stay motivated in every sector, from academics to adequate rest. Enter Bethany Casler, founder of Unrefined Wellness Bar in Eugene, who is no stranger to the value of robust, consistent self-care, especially during the winter months.
Casler developed a dream of marrying nutrition and dining after spending years in and around the New York restaurant scene. Through extensive research, Casler determined the cracks in America’s food system, discovering that many food products labeled “healthy” lacked the nutritional benefits they claimed to possess.
After five years working at an event production company in Denver, Casler dissolved the company and returned to school, obtaining a certification as a nutritional health coach.
“I definitely went through the college, post-college phase of drinking too much, which led to unhealthy food choices,” Casler said. “You maybe didn’t know that I was unhealthy, but I could feel it. I was not living my best life. I was told by my doctor in Colorado that she thought that I wasn’t going to be able to have children.”
This alarming wake-up call was enough for Casler to kick it into high gear, making lifestyle changes that had lasting effects. “I cut out booze, processed food and all the BS. I started moving my body,” Casler said.
After shifting her routine, Casler discovered she was pregnant with her first daughter and set out to instill positive, healthy lifestyle changes in her community.
At Unrefined Wellness Bar, patrons will find a wide variety of menu items, from cold press juices to carrot ginger soup. There are no preservatives, cane sugar or processed sugar. Everything is fully organic, plant-based and made in-house.
Unrefined Wellness Bar also sells a plethora of natural and holistic skincare products and supplements. They also provide three-, five- and six-day meal plans catered to specific health and wellness goals.
“I would try to go to other places and they were full of sugar,” Erika Doyle, Unrefined Wellness Bar’s general manager, said. “I wanted good smoothies and juices that I wouldn’t have to make at home all the time. I found Unrefined as they were opening, so I’ve been there since day one.”
While sunshine and morale are not mutually exclusive, it can be easier for students to prioritize health and wellness when midnight and four in the afternoon do not bear a startling resemblance.
“Staying at home and not moving your body is going to take a toll after a while. You can only do the cozy, candlelit vibes for so long. You’re going to get cabin fever,” Casler said. “Nutrition is key. Getting the right nutrients from your food helps keep your body in your optimal state.”
While it can be tempting to crawl under the covers and hide for the next few months, Casler encourages students to maintain a healthy, solid routine, as well as to get out the door whenever possible. “We designed our space for people to work remotely and post up for the day,” Casler said.
Above all else, Casler’s goal is to provide a space that prioritizes the whole person. From creating fitness goals to fighting cold and flu season through nutritious, high-quality menu items, there’s something for everyone at Unrefined Wellness Bar.
