Wellness Pro LeBrina Jackson on Gratitude at the Holidays: It’s a ‘Reset Button for my Mind’
Dec. 5, 2024
AS WE GET into the holiday season, we’re reminded of what we have, what we want and what might be lacking. As Sheryl Crow says in her song, Soak up the Sun, “It’s not having what you want, it’s wanting what you've got.” We caught up with LeBrina Jackson, owner of Escape Spa in Cypress, Texas, and learned how she tackles the holiday season with hope, love and most importantly, gratitude.
What are you hopeful for right now in this world?
More love from humanity, absolutely! Especially with the holidays upon us, I'm hopeful that we can all tap into that spirit of generosity and compassion. We've been through a lot, especially since the pandemic and its aftermath, and I think people are craving connection and kindness. I'm hopeful that we’ll take the time to truly appreciate each other and spread a little extra love this season.
What does love look like to you?
Love is about showing up for the people you care about, no matter what. It's about being present, offering support, celebrating their wins, and being a shoulder to lean on during tough times. Love is about creating a safe space where people feel seen and valued.
LeBrina, how do you incorporate the concept of gratitude into your daily life?
Gratitude is my secret weapon! Every morning, instead of reaching for my phone, I start my day by listing a few things I'm grateful for. It could be something as simple as a warm cup of coffee or the sound of my daughter laughing. Maybe it was my horse’s whinny of joy when I came to saddle him up and he knows a great ride is ahead. Or noticing my son working as hard on his homework as he does on the football field. Thinking of blessings like those helps me set a positive tone for the day and appreciate all the good in my life.
Why is that important to you? What do you get out of it?
Gratitude is like a reset button for my mind. It helps me shift my perspective from what's missing to what I already have. It keeps me grounded and reminds me of what truly matters. And honestly, it just makes me feel happier and more content.
How can you encourage younger generations, kids to embrace this idea?
I think it starts with instilling an attitude of appreciation from an early age. Leading by example is key — kids learn by watching us express our own thankfulness. Create a culture of appreciation at home or in the classroom, encouraging kids to notice the good in their lives. Teaching them to say “thank you” sincerely, to be aware of other people’s feelings and to show kindness can go a long way.
Employees?
Building a culture of celebrating each other is key! Encourage your team to acknowledge wins, big or small, with shout-outs, thank-you notes, or even a fun team lunch. When people feel seen and appreciated, it boosts morale and creates a ripple effect of positivity that our guests can feel too. Lead by example and celebrate your team’s accomplishments!
How can someone incorporate a gratitude ritual into their lives?
It’s easier than you think! Start by literally scheduling a few minutes each day to reflect on what you're grateful for. You can write it down in a journal, say it out loud, or just think about it quietly. It is a wonderful way to get in the mindset for your daily meditation time. Another idea is to incorporate gratitude into your existing routines, like saying what you’re grateful for before meals or when you tuck your little ones into bed.
What are you grateful for right now, at this very moment?
I'm grateful for this opportunity to share my thoughts on gratitude and hopefully inspire others to embrace it. I'm also incredibly grateful for my amazing family, my supportive friends, and my fantastic team at Escape Spa. And of course, I'm grateful for all of our wonderful guests who trust us to provide them with an escape from the everyday!
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HOUSTON'S EVER-GENEROUS restaurant scene is already at it in 2025. Here are three ways foodies can dig in, raise a glass, and support important causes in January.
Galveston Restaurant Weeks
Fish Company Taco (photo by Becca Wright)
Now through Feb. 2, restaurants in Galveston offer pre-fixe menus a la HRW; two- or three-course dinners are priced $20-$60 and between $1 and $5 will be donated per guest to the Galveston County Food Bank and St. Vincent's House. Faves on The Strand participating in the effort include Italian standout Riondo's and longtime island go-to Yaga's, and the quaint Post Office Street eateries are in on it, too. Head to the Seawall and enjoy Gaido's, or to East Beach and hit up Porch Cafe.
And here's a fun deal! Fish Company Taco has an incredible combo: For $9.99, guests can pair any taco with fresh snapper crudo, and the restaurant will donate $2 to the causes.
Dine Out Rice Village
Duck N Bao's crispy spicy chicken (photo by Jenn Duncan)
Meanwhile, a little closer to home for most of us, Dine Out Rice Village is taking place through the end of January. Similarly, unique pre-fixe menus and specialty items will benefit a charitable cause — the homegrown and beloved Southern Smoke Foundation, which supports food and beverage workers through hard times with monetary grants and mental-health resources. Acclaimed Hamsa and Navy Blue are among the participating spots, plus newcomer Milton's and longstanding favorites like D'Amico's and Coppa Osteria. Duck N Bao's bento boxes ($15 including a $2 donation; available at lunch) benefit Southern Smoke Foundation, and a three-course dinner of pan-fried dumplings, soup and choice of entree is just $35, with a $7 donation.
Brennan's of Houston Supports NOLA Tragedy Fund
NOLA-style BBQ shrimp at Brennan's (photo by Kimberly Park)
Following the horrific New Year's Day tragedy in New Orleans, Brennan's of Houston is finding a way to give back. Through Jan. 19, the restaurant is donating 100 percent of proceeds from a special three-course meal to support the victims in recovery. Savor signature NOLA fare like turtle soup and creole bread pudding — all while giving back!
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THE OWNERS BEHIND two of the Heights' most beloved nightlife destinations are teaming up to bring the neighborhood a new hangout.
Starduster Lounge opens later this month, from White Oak Music Hall cofounder Will Thomas and Benjy Mason of Johnny's Gold Brick and Winnie's. The eclectic project is located at 3921 N. Main St., the former home to Spanish Flowers restaurant, and is designed to recall Texas in the '70s, with touches of cowboy and Tejano culture. The 1940s building has been reimagined as a wacky Tex-Western lounge, pulling inspiration from its past lives as a Latin music venue and Mexican restaurant. Expect vintage fixtures, hand-painted tiles, architectural details like archways, and a mural of a desert by local artist Carissa Marx-Beaty.
The space will be inviting to those who wish to kick back with a brewski and those who want to sip on a high-end cocktail alike. According to a release, a peek at the drink menu reveals a mix of agave spirits and whiskey, plus a tight list of fun and approachable cocktails from local bartender Justin Ware. (The Freezer Cosmo with hibiscus and lemongrass vodka sounds delish.)
As for food, there will be a rotating lineup of Houston food trucks to be parked outside.
Starduster Lounge bows late January and will be open until 2am nightly.
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