Business Spotlight: North Windham Veterinary Hospital

The staff at North Windham Veterinary Hospital believe that providing kind and gentle medical care for pets and offering superb and friendly service for clients results in a thriving practice.

North Windham Veterinary Hospital offers compassionate
treatment and exceptional veterinary care including surgery,
dental services, spay and neuters, and sick pet exams in a 
clean and spacious 6,000-square-foot facility.
COURTESY PHOTO   

Located at 1 Badger Run in Windham, North Windham Veterinary Hospital has been delivering exceptional veterinary care for decades and moved into their 6,000-square-foot facility in 2007. They offer veterinary general practice services including annual exams, vaccines, and bloodwork as well as sick pet exams. The practice also provides surgical services, abdominal and cardiac ultrasounds, x-rays, and dental services.

Featuring competitive pricing and an explanation of why each service is being provided, they perform an array of services including spay and neuters, mass removals, biopsies and everything from a new pet’s first checkup through to their golden years. Visitors will find a spacious reception area; six examination rooms; an intensive care unit; an isolation ward; an operating room; a dentistry suite; a radiography room; and separate canine and feline wards.

“We genuinely care about your pets, and we have a building full of compassionate and loving staff members with diverse veterinary backgrounds that will only offer the best possible care for your pets,” said Sarah LaFore, Practice Manager. “We offer caring and compassionate doctors that take the time to understand and explain the situation with the pet. We are also able to see exotics, such as reptiles and birds, as well as pocket pets like rabbits and hamsters.”

She said the most challenging aspect of what the staff of North Windham Veterinary Hospital does is to ensure that every client who walks through their door feels like they have been listened to and heard.

“We try in every instance to explain what we are doing and why we are suggesting the diagnostics service be performed,” LaFore said. “We want our clients to know that we know times are tough financially, and we will work to provide the best care within each budget. In the event we receive a review that is less than 5 stars, we always respond and want to understand what we could be doing better. We believe it takes a strong team to uphold the gold standard for veterinary medicine.”

Hours are convenient and open from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays and on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. with new patients always welcome.

According to LaFore, what makes North Windham Veterinary Hospital stand out from competitors is the level of expertise, professionalism, and compassion shown by staff members, and working together as a team.

“Our wellness examinations provide an excellent opportunity for us to conduct a thorough physical examination and develop a health profile for your pet. This information will help us identify medical problems and any other issues that can affect your pet’s health and quality of life,” she said. “We are so good with kittens and puppies and exceptional at end-of-life care.”

North Windham Veterinary Hospital also offers the helpful free Pawlicy Advisory service to assist clients in finding a pet insurance policy based upon a pet’s age, location, and breed and to compare top pet insurance brands instantly.
 
Reviews posted online continue to be outstanding. 

“We just moved to the area, and this was the best veterinary clinic we have ever been to. So happy with our choice!” Mary D.

“Everyone at the North Windham vet loves my dogs and cat seemingly as much as I do. Very professional. Everything is so clean and you never feel too close to another family. Feel great going there and dogs like it too!” Karen L.

“I have been using this Veterinary Center for the past 25 years with all of my cats. I can honestly say they are the best around, so caring, transparent about the cost and gives you options based on cost, honest caregivers. We recently had to euthanize our cat, and the experience was so good, peaceful, and they actually sent me a sympathy card with handwritten personalized messages from the vet as well as all of the vet techs – way above and beyond.” Angela L.

To learn more about North Windham Veterinary Hospital or to make an appointment, visit nwindhamvet.com/ or call 207-892-8953. Find them on Facebook and Instagram under northwindhamvet. <

Business Spotlight: Pins and Needles Tattoo

Art and creativity have always inspired Mike Elie, and eventually those passions led him to tattooing and the opening of Pins and Needles Tattoo, a well-known body art studio that has served Southern Maine for more than two decades.

Longtime tattoo artists Mike Elie has brought his successful
Pins and Needles Tattoo studio to Windham offering quality
body art at affordable pricing. SUBMITTED PHOTO 

Located at 608A Roosevelt Trail in Windham, Pins and Needles is owned by Elie and specializes in tattoos of all styles. After operating a successful studio in Portland for more than 20 years, Elie brought his business and loyal following to Windham a few months ago and is looking forward to becoming part of the local community while welcoming new clients.

The new studio offers a clean and comfortable setting where clients can work with experienced artists to create custom body art at fair prices.

For Elie, tattooing is about much more than putting artwork on skin. Tattoos often carry stories with them. They can commemorate loved ones, celebrate milestones, represent relationships, mark accomplishments or serve as reminders of experiences that changed someone's life. Others simply allow people to permanently display artwork that reflects who they are.

Being trusted to create something with that kind of permanence is one of the things Elie appreciates most about his profession. With more than 26 years of experience, he has created countless tattoos and understands that even a seemingly simple design can have a much deeper meaning to the person receiving it. He enjoys knowing that long after someone leaves the studio, the artwork and the memory connected to it remain with them.

“For me, the best thing about what I do is seeing the artwork on people walking around,” Elie said. “It is everything.”

His own journey into tattooing began with art and an unexpected visit to a tattoo studio.

“I was doing painting and working in construction,” he said. “I visited a tattoo shop in Madison, Connecticut and fell in love with it.”

Elie later met and was mentored by a veteran tattoo artist in Connecticut who encouraged him to dedicate his future to creating body art. What began as an interest developed into a career that has allowed him to combine artistic creativity with the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life.

The studio regularly features tattoo designs on social media with upfront pricing and flash sales, while artists can also work with customers to turn their own ideas into custom pieces.

According to Elie, his greatest challenge is helping a customer get a tattoo in a timely manner. Sometimes a client arrives knowing exactly what they want. Other times, they may have only an idea, memory or feeling they hope the artist can translate into an image.

“Sometimes people come in with no reference,” Elie said. “We’ll need to ask them what they’re looking to achieve. We work with them to get the designs just how they imagined.” 

That process is important because unlike other forms of artwork, a tattoo becomes part of the person wearing it. Elie and his staff take time to help clients feel comfortable, whether they are sitting for their first tattoo or adding another piece to an extensive collection.

Elie advises anyone considering a tattoo to spend time looking at an artist’s previous work, thinking carefully about the design and choosing the artistic style that fits what they envision.

Elie said that tattooing itself has also changed considerably during his career.

“The ink and the machines have changed and the quality has improved,” Elie said. “Inks used to be made from questionable pigments. Now 90 percent of them are FDA-approved.”

Through the years, the heart of the profession remains the same for Elie. Every tattoo begins with an idea and ends with something a person can carry for the rest of their life. There is satisfaction not only in creating the artwork, but in knowing he has been entrusted with a small piece of someone’s story.

Through decades of experience and emphasizing the quality of his workmanship, Pins and Needles continues to earn top reviews.

“These guys made us feel right at home from the very minute we walked through the door. They were all super friendly and so patient with us and the many others that came in while we were there. We had our knife holding dinosaurs done by Jimmy. He did great work. I think this might be our new shop for our yearly couples’ tattoo.” Renee Paine

“Today was my first time visiting the shop for one of their flash events and needless to say, I was very impressed. I’ve been to a lot of shops and different artists and I have to say Mike and the staff that I met today were extremely friendly, their prices are reasonable and won’t break your bank, quick but quality work, and a super clean environment. I will be going back next week for another!” Arie Pom

“My husband and I just got some flash tattoos done by Big Mike. He was amazing. Very personable, efficient, and incredible line work. Free handed a tattoo on my husband’s finger and we couldn't be happier with the outcome. We will be coming back for all our tattoos!” Shelby Stanhope

Pins and Needles Tattoo is open from noon to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and on Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome every day but on Wednesday, which is by appointment only. To learn more, call or text 207-774-8282 or find them on Facebook under Pins and Needles. If you have a design in mind, you can send them a message with it and they can give you a price up front. <

Business Spotlight: Zbon Fitness

Convenience and providing each participant with a clean and fun community atmosphere is the goal of Zbon Fitness and the self-service gym helps you to prioritize your wellness, so every other part of your life benefits.

Zach Bonnevie, who owns and operates
Zbon Fitness in Raymond, is shown
with his wife Seve Deery-DeRaps.
SUBMITTED PHOTO

Located in Raymond at 1233 Roosevelt Trail, Zbon Fitness was founded in 2020 and is owned and operated by Zach Bonnevie. It is part of a growing business with locations in Turner, Yarmouth, Poland, South Paris, Lewiston, Warren, Brewer, Wiscasset and now Raymond. It offers 24/7 access to its gyms across the state, along with in-person and online personal training, a nutrition app and workout programs.

Zbon Fitness provides free weights, cable and plate loaded machines, cardio, clothing and supplements. Participants can join today online and get access instantly.

“The most significant aspect of Zbon Fitness is the community we’ve built. We’re a locally owned, Maine-grown company, and we work hard to make fitness approachable for everyone, regardless of their age, experience, or fitness level,” Bonnevie said. “What distinguishes us is that we combine the convenience of 24/7 access and multiple locations with the personal atmosphere of a neighborhood gym. We know our members, listen to their feedback, and continually reinvest in our facilities and communities. Even as we’ve grown, we’ve remained focused on providing a welcoming, comfortable environment where people genuinely feel like they belong.”

According to Bonnevie, pricing for Zbon Fitness is highly competitive, especially when you consider the value included.

“Members receive 24/7 access, the ability to use all nine locations, quality equipment, convenience, and a welcoming environment without the overcrowded feel of many larger gyms,” he said. “We offer several membership options for individuals, couples, families, students, seniors, teachers, and members of the military. People can choose a plan that best fits their budget.”

Bonnevie has always had a passion for health and fitness for as long as he can remember.

“Growing up as an athlete showed me the positive impact that exercise can have on both physical and mental health,” he said. “I’ve also always found purpose in helping others, so personal training felt like the perfect path for me. That passion eventually grew into opening Zbon Fitness. I’m incredibly grateful to do what I love and to provide communities across Maine with convenient, 24/7 access to fitness while helping create healthier communities.”

He says that Zbon Fitness is a local business built around helping people feel comfortable, supported and confident in the gym.

“You don't have to already be in shape or know exactly what you are doing to belong here,” Bonnevie said. “Whether someone is stepping into a gym for the first time or has been training for years, our goal is to provide a welcoming environment where they can improve their health, build lasting habits and feel like part of a community. Our gyms are open 24/7, offer everything members need for a great workout, and have a laid-back atmosphere without the intimidation that can come with larger fitness centers. We want people to walk in, feel welcome, and enjoy coming back.”

Visitors to Zbon Fitness will find clean, well-maintained facilities, quality equipment, 24/7 access, and knowledgeable personal trainers who genuinely care about helping members. The best measure of our quality is the feedback we receive from the people who use our gyms every day.

Reviews posted online consistently mention the cleanliness of Zbon facilities, the convenience of being open around the clock, the variety and quality of its equipment, and their welcoming atmosphere.

“Very convenient, 24-hour access, great equipment and never have to wait for machines." Ian C.

"Nothing but great things to say about this place! I usually struggle going to the gym as I have anxiety about going but most nights when I work out, I've had the place to myself. Not intimidating at all and has everything you need. Great location, 24/7 access, friendly staff and awesome personal trainers." Ashley K.

"Clean set up. Has all the equipment you need. The best part is it's open 24/7. It's a great local gym to support." Jack N.

Bonnevie said that the goal of Zbon Fitness is to provide more than just a place to exercise.

“We want every member to have a dependable, comfortable, and supportive place where they can work toward becoming their best,” he said.

To learn more about Zbon Fitness, visit zbonfitness.com or call or text 207-931-5140. Find them on Facebook under Zbon Fitness-Raymond. <

Business Spotlight: Duck Pond Variety Windham

For more than a century, Duck Pond Variety at 463 River Road in Windham has been supplying the community with food, gas and everyday essentials, remaining a familiar stop for generations of area residents.

Duck Pond Variety at 463 River Road in Windham has
remained a favorite stop for area residents for generations
and prepares hot comfort-food quality meals to go
Mondays through Fridays. SUBMITED PHOTO

Owned and operated by Derek Footman, the store traces its roots to 1917, when Charles and Grace Thayer founded the neighborhood business. Over the years, customers could stop in for everything from molasses, flour and grain for animals to shoes, gasoline, penny candy, garden seeds, beer, wine and soda. As times changed, so did the store, eventually becoming known for pizza, sandwiches and other freshly prepared foods.

Footman, who has owned the business for the past four years, has continued that tradition while expanding what the store offers. Today, Duck Pond Variety features a full kitchen along with gasoline, liquor, beer, wine, convenience items and everyday essentials. The store also carries tobacco products, offers propane exchanges, lottery tickets and an ATM, and recently added diesel fuel.

Keeping prices reasonable is a priority for Footman, whether customers are filling their gas tanks or ordering a meal from the kitchen. He said providing good portions and quality ingredients at prices local families can afford is an important part of operating a neighborhood store.

What distinguishes Duck Pond Variety from its competitors is simple, Footman says.

“The quality of our food comes with a price that can’t be beat,” he said. “Our chicken is fresh, never frozen, and twice breaded. Our pizza is made with all top-quality products but sells for the most reasonable prices in town. Many items are hot and ready to go so you can be in and out fast.”

Duck Pond Variety’s specialties include Italian sandwiches, fresh chicken, pizza, breakfast pizza and breakfast sandwiches.

“We take immense pride in serving the best food at the best price while never compromising on quality,” Footman said.

That focus on hearty, affordable food becomes especially noticeable during the colder months. Throughout the winter, Duck Pond Variety prepares hot comfort-food meals to go Monday through Friday, giving customers an easy option without having to cook at home. Selections change from week to week and may include favorites such as shepherd’s pie, stuffed shells with meatballs and macaroni and cheese topped with meats such as buffalo chicken or pulled pork. The meals are served hot and ready to go, with generous portions designed to provide a filling meal at a reasonable price.

Customers can also take advantage of different food specials each weekday. Mondays feature a 10-inch, one-topping pizza for $8. Tuesdays bring The Godfather Sub for $8, while Wednesdays feature chicken tenders for $1 each. On Thursdays, customers can purchase a large sandwich for the price of a small, and Fridays feature a Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap for $8.

Footman said he is humbled to continue the tradition of serving the community that began with the Thayer family more than 100 years ago. Today, Duck Pond Variety employs between 12 and 15 people.

“I used to work for a vendor and met the previous owner through that,” Footman said. “I ended up buying it from him and building upon what he had already started. It has been known as Duck Pond Variety for eight years and before that it was called Thayers, which the town cherished and loved for many decades.” 

More recently, improvements to the exterior have helped bring new attention to the longtime neighborhood store.

“We have almost completed an outside remodel which has led to amazing growth, and we would love people to try our food and store that have not been in before,” Footman said.

Online reviews echo the enthusiasm for the store’s food, service and affordable gas.

“Came here around 4 p.m. on a Monday. I got the steak bomb sub, and husband got the meat pizza. Omg best food in a long time. Nothing was skimped on, ratios on everything perfect, all tasted fresh. Definitely our go-to place when we’re back in the area. Also, service- 5 stars!!! Thank you so much, we will be back!” wrote A. Files.

“I have had two Italian sandwiches from here in the last three weeks and they are by far the best Italians I have had. And to top it off, the staff is extremely friendly regardless of how busy the store is! Hats off to Duck Pond! Keep it up!” wrote J. Clifford.

M. Kasyanov praised another menu favorite: “I usually never leave reviews but I’m here eating probably the best buffalo chicken pizza I’ve had in a while. I have to let them know it was delicious.”

“We loved the pizza, wrap and fries we ordered, and the food was tasty and hot! Next time we’ll have to try stocking up on any needed home goods, that sounds super convenient!” wrote A. Fram.

Duck Pond Variety is proud to serve this community and looks forward to continuing to be the area's go-to place for good food and convenience.

To place an order ahead and have it ready for pickup, call 207-892-5146. To learn more about Duck Pond Variety, find the store on Facebook under Duck Pond Variety Windham.

Business Spotlight: Michele's Health

For the woman who has been told, “Your labs are normal,” yet still feels anything but. Persistent fatigue. Brain fog. Digestive issues. Hormone concerns. A body that no longer feels familiar, and no clear explanation for why.

Michele Bradeen of Michele's Health can help
identify patterns that may be contributing to
chronic unresolved health concerns.
SUBMITTED PHOTO 

At Michele’s Health, functional health practitioner Michele Bradeen helps women move beyond symptom chasing and begin asking better questions. Her work is centered on identifying the patterns that may be contributing to chronic, unresolved health concerns and translating complex testing into practical, personalized next steps.

“I work with women who know something is off, even when they have not felt heard or have not gotten the answers they need,” Michele said. “My role is to listen carefully, investigate the whole picture, and help them understand what their body may be communicating.”

Michele is a Board-Certified Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner (FDNP), Certified Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) Practitioner, certified nutrition coach, and certified personal trainer. She combines functional testing with education and individualized nutrition, lifestyle, movement, and targeted-support strategies.

“Educating my clients about what their bodies are communicating through symptoms is a top priority,” she said.

Rather than using a one-size-fits-all protocol, Michele explores connections among digestion, immune function, detoxification, hormones, energy, mineral balance, and stress response. Her H.I.D.D.E.N. and D.R.E.S.S. frameworks help organize the investigation and shape realistic, step-by-step recommendations.

“The body works like an orchestra and must be viewed as a whole,” she explained. “If one part or system is off key, it affects the others.”

Depending on a client’s history and goals, Michele may use functional blood chemistry analysis and specialized testing, including MRT for food and chemical sensitivities; GI-MAP stool testing for digestive function, microbial balance, immune markers, and potential pathogens; HTMA for mineral patterns and metabolic trends; and metabolic, mucosal-barrier, stress, and hormone panels.

“The value is not just in running a test,” Michele explained. “It is in helping someone understand what the results mean in the context of her life, symptoms, and goals, and then supporting her as she puts a manageable plan into action.”

Her work is also deeply personal. Michele’s path into functional health began after a 12-year struggle with complex health challenges, including tick-borne illness, neurological symptoms, autoimmune concerns, vision issues, and brain fog. Although treatment addressed the infection itself, she was left searching for ways to rebuild her health.

“That experience changed everything,” she said. “I know what it is like to feel frightened, exhausted, and discouraged after trying so many things. My own recovery led me to study functional health, nutrition and gut health, because I wanted to understand what my body needed and eventually help other women do the same.”

Today, Michele has additional training in tick-borne illness recovery after studying under Dr. Tom Moorcroft, DO, a former president of the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society. She has a particular interest in supporting women navigating lingering, complex symptoms after Lyme or other health challenges.

What Michele’s Clients Say

Michele’s Health has received multiple five-star Google reviews highlighting the care clients’ experience through her personalized approach, clear explanations, and attentive support. One client, Katie, shared that after more than six years of searching for answers, working with different practitioners, and trying numerous supplements, Michele helped her begin finding clarity through the first round of testing.

“Her approach is entirely personalized,” Katie wrote. She also valued having “full access to ask her questions along the way,” adding that Michele “genuinely cares.”

Another five-star reviewer, Maryanne, described Michele as “always well prepared” and a “strong communicator” who explained test results in a way that helped her feel “informed and confident” in her care. She also said Michele made thoughtful recommendations without pressure and that she never felt rushed during appointments. 

That feedback reflects the experience Michele aims to create: individualized attention, clear education, and ongoing support so clients can feel more informed and confident as they take the next steps in their wellness journey.

What clients find at Michele’s Health is not a quick fix or a generic plan. It is dedicated one-on-one guidance, clear education, and a practitioner who understands that meaningful progress is often built through small, informed, sustainable changes.

“If you have been dismissed, overwhelmed, or left wondering where to start, you do not have to figure it out alone,” Michele said. “I walk beside my clients as they learn to understand their bodies and take the next best steps forward.”

Michele’s Health offers a complimentary 15-minute Wellness Clarity Call for women who would like to discuss whether functional testing and one-on-one support may be a good fit.

Learn more at micheleshealth.com or book a Wellness Clarity Call at: https://app.biocanic.com/selfbooking/690e4615474f772fad1540db <

Business Spotlight: Remington Insurance

Navigating insurance plans, benefits and costs can be confusing, especially as coverage options continue to change. The team at Remington Insurance helps clients understand their options, review the details and make informed decisions about their coverage.

The team at Remington Insurance helps
clients understand their options, review
the details and make informed decisions
about their insurance coverage. From left
are Office Support Specialist Dori Smith,
co-owner Zack Remington, co-owner
Karen Remington and Sales Support
Specialist Alexandra Remington. 
SUBMITTED PHOTO

Zack and Karen Remington are the founders of Remington Insurance, an independent insurance agency. Originally founded in 1999 in Vermont, the company relocated to Maine in 2015 and is now based in Cornish. For more than 25 years, the independent agency has helped clients navigate their insurance needs while providing the personal attention of a local, family-owned business.

The agency specializes in Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement and Part D Prescription Drug Coverage. It also offers Home and Auto Insurance, Renters, Business, Life, Dental, Vision and Pet Insurance, along with Annuities and Retirement Planning.

Working with multiple insurance companies allows the agency to compare plans, benefits, networks and costs to help clients choose coverage that provides the benefits they need at a cost that makes sense for them.

“Our approach is simple: understand what the client needs, review the options available and help them make an informed decision,” said Zack Remington. “Karen and I both came from social-services backgrounds, and that experience taught us the importance of listening and understanding each person’s circumstances. From there we compare benefits, costs, provider networks, medications and potential gaps in coverage.”

That same careful review extends beyond Medicare. With Life Insurance, for example, the agency considers whether existing coverage is Term or Whole Life, how long it will remain in place and whether premiums may increase over time. With Retirement Planning, the conversation may include whether savings are exposed to more risk than a client is comfortable with or whether a portion should be protected. Home and Auto Insurance and other coverage can also be reviewed for gaps, changing needs and available options.

“Our goal is to help clients find appropriate coverage at a reasonable cost without sacrificing the benefits they need,” said Karen Remington. “We value long-term relationships and work on behalf of our clients rather than for any one insurance company. We remain available after enrollment, stay in contact throughout the year and encourage regular reviews as plans, benefits, and costs change.”

The Remington Insurance team includes Zack and Karen’s daughter, Alexandra, who provides sales support and reviews clients’ Auto Insurance needs. When she is not in the office, Alexandra can often be found at the family farm teaching riding lessons or working with the horses.

Zack and Karen first met office support specialist Dori Smith when she helped them search for their senior dog, Trixie. That chance meeting grew into a friendship, and Dori has now been with the agency for seven years. She provides outreach, conducts regular client check-ins and remains an integral part of the Remington Insurance team.

The agency serves clients throughout Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire and Florida. Its multistate licensing allows Zack and Karen to continue working with longtime clients who move, travel seasonally, or maintain connections in more than one state.

Zack and Karen met in 1994 while working in a residential treatment program for boys. That experience helped shape the patient, individualized approach they later brought to insurance and remains central to how they serve clients today.

Client Dana Tarbox described his experience with the agency: 

“Remington Insurance was a tremendous help with getting my ex-wife set up with her initial insurance, and now that she is turning 65, setting her up with Medicare A, B, C and D. She would not have been able to do this on her own. As for myself, Zack set me up with great insurance at a reasonable price. I highly recommend them.”

With Medicare’s Annual Election Period running from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, now is a good time for Medicare beneficiaries to review their coverage for the coming year. Medicare Supplement plans are different and are not limited to the Annual Election Period.

Remington Insurance also hosts free “Medicare Made Easy” Cider and Donut Socials at its Cornish office, with future events posted on the agency’s website. Current Events Thursday, Sept. 17 at 5 p.m. and Thursday, Sept. 24 at 2 p.m., Thursdays in October at 2 p.m. on Oct. 1, Oct. 8, Oct. 15, Oct. 22 and Oct 29. Call to reserve your seat.

People can schedule a preliminary 30-minute phone appointment through the Remington Insurance website or contact the office directly, to be followed by a full phone or in person appointment if you choose.

To learn more, visit RemingtonInsuranceServices.com, call 207-303-7035 or visit the office at 81 Maple St., Cornish. Find them on Facebook. <

Business Spotlight: Prana Nordic

A new Scandinavian-inspired wellness retreat called Prana Nordic has opened in Raymond and is a place where visitors can slow down, reconnect with nature, and experience the Lakes Region in a way that encourages true rest and renewal.

Prana Nordic is a Scandinavian forest retreat
where guests may reserve private in-cabin
wellness treatments offering Ayurvedic
Bodywork such as Marma Therapy, Abhyanga,
and Reflexology, creating a relaxing 
experience unlike anything else in the area.
COURTESY PHOTO 

Located in Raymond near Sebago Lake, Prana Nordic is a Scandinavian forest retreat offering three thoughtfully designed boutique cabins that combine modern Nordic design with the natural beauty of the Lakes Region. Guests can enjoy private outdoor saunas, kayaks, bike rides, fire pits, and peaceful wooded surroundings while exploring everything the Sebago Lake region has to offer.

“What makes Prana Nordic unique is the optional wellness experience available to guests,” said Lindsey, co-owner at Prana Nordic. “Through my separate wellness practice, Ayurvedic Alchemy, guests may reserve private in-cabin wellness treatments that offer Ayurvedic Bodywork such as Marma Therapy, Abhyanga, and Reflexology, creating a relaxing retreat experience unlike anything else in the area.

“We’re creating a modern Maine retreat centered around nature, privacy and wellness, while still giving guests the freedom to make the experience entirely their own,” she said. “There are three parts to Prana Nordic:, the woods come first. We kept the land intact and the whole property was tucked into the forest so you feel like you can step off your deck and disappear into it. Time spent moving slowly among trees does something no amenity can replicate. The Japanese call it forest bathing. We just built around it. Then the heat. Every cabin has its own sauna and outdoor shower, both private to that cabin and included in the rate rather than shared or added on. Ojas cabin, which sits up on a knoll with the most secluded outdoor space on the property, also has a hot tub and a dedicated cold plunge, so guests there get the full Scandinavian circuit of heat, cold, and rest without leaving their own private space. And then Ayurveda, which is really the heart of it.”

Lindsey and Mike are certified Ayurvedic Health Counselors, trained at the Mahatma School of Ayurveda in Vermont. Guests can add Ayurvedic bodywork, a guided seasonal cleanse, or a one-on-one wellness consultation to any stay. Ayurveda treats wellbeing as a question of energy and constitution rather than symptoms and it pairs naturally with the restorative effects Prana Nordic has to offer within its forest setting.

“Everything is designed to flow together on the property, so guests can move from an indoor or outdoor treatment to the sauna, outdoor shower, hot tub or cold plunge without ever having to leave,” she said. “And when they do want to explore, Sebago Lake is just minutes away, with the lake, hiking trails and the Frye Island ferry nearby. The latter is just a 5-minute walk from the cabins. The idea is that guests can make their stay as active or as restorative as they want it to be.”

Local residents can also experience Prana Nordic’s Ayurvedic offerings, including bodywork and wellness consultations, without booking an overnight stay.

“Ultimately, we want Prana Nordic to be somewhere you can come for an Ayurvedic appointment, a weekend away, or choose a more immersive wellness experience,” she said. “We’re especially excited about multi-day retreats that bring together the cabins, Ayurvedic treatments, hydrotherapy, nourishing meals and time in nature.”

Lindsey and Mike moved to Raymond from Boston with the dream of building tiny homes in nature near the water, the mountains, and among the trees.

“We’re both yogis, and along the way we trained at the Mahatma School of Ayurveda in Vermont and completed the Ayurvedic Health Counselor program,” Lindsey said. “Our shared passion for Ayurveda and Vedic philosophy naturally became part of the foundation of Prana Nordic and the experience we wanted to share with our guests.”

Since opening in July, that vision has already resonated with guests, with Prana Nordic receiving exceptional early reviews.

“Beautiful and quiet area. Perfect getaway for a couple. We enjoyed it so much, several nights we just cooked at the cabin rather than going out to eat. 5/5, and we will definitely be back.”

“This was a gorgeous cabin… [and] was well appointed… the lovely outdoor shower was so nice, and the sauna was a great addition. Everything was peaceful and quiet. They even had milk, coffee, tea and wine ready for us. Super nice touches!”

“The place is absolutely wonderful, and staying in the cabin is such an experience! Every detail in the cabin is so well thought through, from the outdoor lighting to the little amenities in the bathroom…”

To learn more about Prana Nordic or to make a reservation, visit prananordic.com or call 207-312-7972. Follow Prana Nordic on Facebook and Instagram at prananordic. <