Introducing Stephanie Coogan, a New Canaan resident and mother of four. She has an acupuncture practice on Pine Street and is also a big proponent of meditation. Find out more about Stephanie and discover her favorite family activities. Learn what she’s doing to keep her children active during the school closures and how she’s trying to stay positive during these uncertain times…
How many kids do you have and what grades are they in at school?
I have 4 kids. Two daughters: my oldest is in seventh grade and my youngest is in first grade. I also have two sons: one is in fifth grade and one is in third grade.
What brought you to New Canaan?
My husband and I decided to settle in New Canaan because of how community-centered our town is, and we also felt confident in our towns’ schools.
What are you doing to stay positive and keep your children entertained during “social distancing” and school closings due to Coronavirus?
I am trying to stay upbeat and positive moving forward through this challenging time, which will help to keep my family optimistic and calm as well. We are trying to keep the eLearning fun for them, and we take stretch/yoga breaks as needed. Getting outdoors walking our dog and heading to the field at Waveny or Mead helps too! We are trying to make the most of our family time under the circumstances both enjoyable and fun, since this is a time we will never forget.
What’s your favorite family activity in town?
One of our favorite family activities is to ride our bikes to the farmers market. We also love Mead Park!
How long have you been doing acupuncture? When did you start your company?
I started my Acupuncture practice 13 years ago. The moment I graduated, I went straight into working at Union Square. To learn more, visit her website.
How can acupuncture promote natural healing?
There are so many things. I love showing people how much acupuncture can help to alleviate their pain. I truly appreciate being able to help my patients feel better. Acupuncture works by stimulating the release of endorphins (the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals). Acupuncture influences the autonomic nervous system (which controls bodily functions) and the release of chemicals, which regulates blood flow and pressure, reduces inflammation and calms the brain.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve gotten from another mom?
Best advice I’ve ever received from a mother: Make time for yourself.
How do you unwind when you need some “me time?”
I practice meditation daily. I also try to read when I can and listen to Audible.
Words to live by: Live in the moment! And try to maintain balance in life.
Favorite band, book, tv show…
“Dead to Me” on Netflix! Favorite band…Fleetwood Mac. And a favorite recent read was “Girl Wash Your Face.”
Local spots:
Favorite place to grab a bit with the kids is Cherry Street. Without the kids is Sole.
Place to grab a drink – Uncorked
Date night would be working out together 😂
Fav place outside with the kids: Mead Park; Indoors: New Canaan Library
Favorite place to shop for myself: Togs, for the kids : Groove
Fav place to unwind: Calme
I get my coffee daily at CXF (combine x fitness)
Hidden treasures: the trails at New Canaan Nature Center and when they make the maple syrup in the winter!