Events Archive - Page 10 of 27 - Rancho La Puerta
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Navigating the Nervous System: Body, Mind & Breath with Sharon Holly

Learn to identify the state of your nervous system in relation to the body’s natural stress/relaxation cycle so you can become empowered in self-regulation to release tension, restore balance and build resilience. Classes are intended to help you create your own toolbox through movement, breath and mindful techniques to support you as you move through your daily life with a greater sense of ease and peace.

Sunday: Nervous System Overview – Building Awareness
Monday: Brain Anatomy & Function – Orient through 5 senses
Tuesday: Vagus Nerve – Down Regulation
Wednesday: Ground: Disembodiment to Reconnection
Thursday: Breath: Simple & Powerful
Friday: Interoception: Internal Sense Connection

Pain Support Toolbox – Practical techniques that can be brought into any movement class and/or daily activities of living to support decreased pain and anxiety.
Sleep Toolbox – Whether you have trouble falling asleep or waking-up in the middle of the night, you will build a sleep support kit to use on your own.

Sharon Holly is a Certified Yoga Therapist, Certified TRE® (Trauma/Tension Release Exercises) and Resilience Toolkit Provider as well as a y4c Oncology Trained Yoga Teacher. She graduated from the Loyola Marymount University Yoga Therapy program after her personal experience with breast cancer and is passionate about sharing the gifts she received on her own journey. Sharon is based in Los Angeles and in addition to teaching weekly in-person plus online yoga and meditation classes, she has been teaching at psychological trauma/treatment centers, physical therapy offices, cancer centers and schools for more than a decade, specializing in nervous system regulation, oncology yoga and bone health yoga. She leads retreats for women going through cancer and has written numerous articles about yoga therapy for The American Institute for Cancer Research and is a contributing writer for the book “Yoga Therapy Across the Cancer Continuum.” Her goal is to empower individuals in their own ability to transform and heal. Her students range from ages 2-92.

Pilates with Jaime Russell

Originally from the Midwest, Jaime Russell was introduced to the Pilates method at age 13 as a complement to her classical ballet training. After relocating to San Francisco to join Alonzo King’s LINES Ballet Training Program, Pilates became an essential tool for maintaining both physical resilience and mental clarity in and beyond the studio. 

In 2011, Jamie completed her first comprehensive Pilates teacher training in New York, followed by a second certification with Balanced Body in 2014. She has since pursued extensive continuing education with master trainers and third-generation teachers worldwide, deepening her understanding of both classical and contemporary approaches. Jamie is also a certified Gyrotonic instructor, a practice she values for the added depth, nuance, and dimensionality it brings to her teaching. 

Jamie believes that improved quality of movement leads to an improved quality of life, and she is committed to empowering students of all levels to move with greater efficiency, confidence, and longevity. 

Listening Deeply and Looking Closely with Dr. Jeff Lee

What Your Body Wants to Tell You: The Compelling Science Behind Your Week At The Ranch
We all come to the Ranch with the hope of finding a path to health and well-being. But if you look beyond the beautiful setting and the warm, friendly faces, you’ll find much more than just hope. Every part of your Ranch experience is grounded in science–in the careful, meticulous observation of what allows the human body and mind to thrive. In this presentation, Dr. Jeff Lee will explore how each component of your week can reconnect you to what your body wants and needs.

Macrophotography: The Wondrous World of Tiny Things.
The essence of mindfulness is becoming fully present in the moment. Sometimes, with so many distractions all around us, we find that kind of presence hard to achieve. But at any given moment, there’s a beautiful and fascinating universe within our reach–and it beckons us to look, notice and revel in the here and now.

Using a simple, inexpensive clip-on lens, we’ll turn your cell phone camera into a portal to a magical world. This class is about nature, creativity, mindfulness and delight.

Photo Editing for Dummies With Phones.
These days, everyone carries a powerful computer in their pocket. Did you know we all have a fully-equipped dark room in there, too? In this class, we’ll cover simple, foolproof ways to bring out the best in your cell phone photos, using only the editing tools in your camera app or Google Photos.

 

Jeff Lee, MD is a graduate of Harvard Medical School and the Stanford University creative writing program. He has dedicated his life to the practice of Family Medicine in diverse and underserved communities, and to teaching creative expression through writing, music and photography. He has taught at Stagebridge Institute for Performing Arts, the Cazadero and Caz Northwest Family Arts Camps and The Northwest Writers’ Weekend, and has worked extensively as a life, career and creativity coach. He is the author of Catch a Fish, Throw a Ball, Fly a Kite, a book that helps parents introduce their children to joyful skills in the natural world.

Listening Deeply and Looking Closely with Dr. Jeff Lee

What Your Body Wants: Balancing Science and Awareness to Understand Our Embodied Needs. You love your body, and whether you know it or not, it loves you. Together we’ll learn its physiological language, discover what it wants and needs, and learn how your week at Rancho La Puerta can reconnect you to your body and help it thrive.

Unlocking Creativity Through Presence and Awareness. In this fun, interactive session, we’ll be unlocking our creativity by getting out of our heads, and diving into the present moment and the energy it provides. We’ll play, and be silly, and take a few risks in the safe, joyful space we build together. You are endlessly creative–you just have to get out of your own way.

Awakening the Spirit – Through Song and Story, Music and Poetry from Around the World. Gather around the fire in Oaktree for a magical and memorable evening with three of our week’s presenters – Sophia Wang, Jeff Lee, and Joel ben Izzy. Together, they will lead us on a journey of discovery around the world and into our own souls. This collaboration weaves together the strands of our time at the ranch, carrying us into a space of reflection, connection, and wonder, the words and music resonating as we near the end of our week at the Ranch.

 

Jeff Lee, MD is a graduate of Harvard Medical School and Stanford University. He has dedicated his life to the practice of Family Medicine in diverse and underserved communities, and to teaching creative expression through writing, music and photography. He has taught at Stagebridge Institute for Performing Arts, the Cazadero and Caz Northwest Family Arts Camps and The Northwest Writers’ Weekend, and has worked extensively as a life and career coach. He is the author of Catch a Fish, Throw a Ball, Fly a Kite, a book that helps parents introduce their children to joyful skills in the natural world.

Sing Your Heart Out! with Cheryl Lin Fielding

Love to sing? This is your moment! Join fun, high-energy singing sessions each day and build confidence, stage presence, and vocal power. Then, if you’re feeling brave, step into the spotlight at Thursday’s Rancho La Puerta’s Got Talent Show!

Whether you sing in the shower, in the car, or dream of performing on stage, this is your chance to shine.

Get ready to:

  • Strengthen your voice
  • Learn performance tips from a pro
  • Build confidence
  • Have fun with friends
  • And maybe even wow the crowd!

Come sing your heart out — we can’t wait to hear you! 🎶🌟

 

Cheryl Lin FieldingCheryl Lin Fielding is an inspiring Vocal Coach and Continuing Lecturer at UCLA’s Herb Alpert School of Music and works with Dolora Zajick’s Institute for Young Dramatic Voices. She is also the Artistic Director of the Parnassus Society, as well as a distinguished pianist, collaborative artist, and concert producer. Cheryl has performed at renowned venues including Alice Tully Hall, Carnegie Weill Recital Hall, and the Tanglewood Music Center  — but what she loves most is helping young singers discover their unique voice and step confidently into the spotlight.

Teens Volleyball with Liam Fielding

Liam Fielding is a volleyball athlete known for his multifaceted skills, strong game awareness, and joy on the court. He currently plays AAU club volleyball for Pulse Athletics 16-1 and CIF boys volleyball for the Beckman High School Patriots, competing as an outside hitter and opposite.  His recent honors include being named a 2026 AVCA High Riser, team captain of the Beckman JV, Rookie of the Year award from Beckman High School, and MVP of the 2026 Foothill Classic Boys JV Volleyball Tournament, where his team were tournament champions.  He also plays beach volleyball and enjoys sharing the game in an engaging, supportive, and fun environment.

BollyPop Dance with Aakansha Maheshwari

BollyPop Dance
Get ready to move, groove, and shine! This high-energy BollyPop dance series offers separate choreography classes for children and for teens, along with special sessions designed for families to dance together. Participants will step into the colorful world of Bollywood-inspired movement, building confidence and creativity as they learn lively routines they can proudly perform.

The week also features a joyful Dandiya Stick Dance workshop—a traditional folk favorite that was a big hit with guests and returns by popular demand. The experience culminates in a group rehearsal bringing all BollyPop performers together in preparation for the Talent Show. Expect rhythm, laughter, cultural flair, and plenty of fun for all ages!

 

Los Angeles-based choreographer and instructor Aakansha Maheshwari created BollyPop with the intention to spread happiness through dance. Growing up in India, Aakansha trained in various Indian dance forms—from ancient classical dance of the temples to gypsy folk dance of the snake charmer community. Aakansha has spent years training with the masters and brings different styles together in her program, BollyPop, which is currently offered in California, Utah, and India. She has choreographed for The Academy Museum, Clippers games, LA Kings games, and was one of the choreographers of Disney’s Freakier Friday. Her business was recently selected as one of the six Asian businesses in Los Angeles to be featured in a Google commercial. Aakansha works with a few non-profit organizations in India and spends time with children in underprivileged communities, teaching dance and music. Her devotion to her art is solely for the purpose of spreading happiness.
www.bollypopla.com

 

Cooking with the Seasons with Chef Vivian Mercado

Celebrate the flavors of the season with this hands-on cooking class inspired by our organic farm. You’ll learn to prepare fresh, seasonal recipes along with Ranch classics that honor nature’s rhythms rooted in the Rancho La Puerta philosophy of wellness, sustainability, and farm-to-table living.

Cooking with the Seasons invites guests to explore recipes that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients many sourced directly from our organic farm.

Whether you’re a passionate home cook or just starting your culinary journey, you’ll leave with practical skills, inspiration, and a deeper connection to nature through food.

Cooking with the Seasons:Sign Up

Tuesday 11:00 am – 2:30 pm
Capacity: 14 guests
Price: $100 USD, tax included

 

Chef Vivian MercadoChef Vivian Mercado is a young culinary talent with roots deeply intertwined with the vibrant flavors of her homeland, Baja California. Graduating from the Culinary School at the University of Baja California UABC in Ensenada, Vivian embarked on a culinary journey that began by honing her skills at a wholesome meal prep kitchen.  Eager to explore the diverse tapestry of local Baja flavors, she took the role of a young manager at a culinary venture, where she delved into the realms of local wines, specialty coffee and artisanal bread.  After three enriching years, Vivian returned to Tecate, where she found her culinary sanctuary at Rancho La Puerta.  Starting at Tierra Alegre Juice Bar, Vivian delighted our guests with delicious and nutritious smoothies and cold pressed juice creations; a year later she had the opportunity to join the main Rancho La Puerta kitchen as Sous Chef for three years.   Now, at La Cocina que Canta, Head Chef Vivian brings her expertise, creativity, and unwavering passion for culinary excellence to every dish she crafts, to every class she teaches.

An Evening of Mexican & Cuban Rhythms Performed by Yam Beat

An Evening of Mexican & Cuban Rhythms
Performed by Yam Beat

Yamel Kuri, Erich Alexis, Carlos Castro, David Marcos & Samira Aguilera

Yam Beat is a versatile musical ensemble featuring soprano Yamel Kuri alongside musicians Erich Alexis, Carlos Castro, David Marcos, and Samira Aguilera. Their performances span a wide range of genres—from classical to popular music—seamlessly blending cultural heritage with strong academic training.

Yamel and Erich, both from Tijuana, first met in 2016 and soon joined forces to pursue a professional career in music. Over the years, they have performed at social events and appeared in numerous regional festivals. In 2024, the ensemble expanded with the addition of Carlos, David, and Samira, musicians originally from Cuba, whose exceptional artistry added new depth and richness to the project.

Today, in addition to their work at social events, Yam Beat presents elegant candlelight tribute concerts and has developed Yam Beat Cinema—a unique live experience in which classic films are screened and performed live by the ensemble. Their repertoire includes Cinema Paradiso, The Bodyguard, Flashdance, and Amélie.

Nurturing Abundance Week

Nurturing Abundance:
Seeking harmony and health with the Self, Community, and Earth

August 1-8, 2026

Join us for a transformative week where visionary leaders and changemakers gather to explore what it truly means to live abundantly with others and with our planet.

Nurturing Abundance Week invites us to redefine prosperity — not as accumulation, but as generosity and synergy. Replenishing our inner vitality gives us excess energy and talent to engage with one another, and with the living systems of the earth that sustain us. Together, we will examine how cultivating an abundant mindset allows us to care for ourselves more deeply, strengthen our communities, and steward the planet with wisdom and intention.

Around the world, innovators, educators, and activists are advancing regenerative ways of living — approaches that restore rather than deplete, that connect rather than divide. Throughout the week, we will explore:

  • Stress resilience and whole-person health
  • Regenerative agriculture
  • Thoughtful land stewardship and backyard cultivation
  • Indigenous wisdom and intergenerational knowledge
  • Community-building and systems thinking
  • Practical pathways to sustainable living at home and beyond

Through keynote conversations, experiential workshops, garden walks, and dialogue circles, participants will gain both practical tools and renewed inspiration. The goal is not simply awareness — it is inspiration and activation.

This is an invitation to step into a more conscious, connected, and life-affirming way of being — one that honors both personal fulfillment and collective flourishing.


Featured Presenters:

Sarah Livia Brightwood
Steve Sando
Norma Meza
Pandora Thomas
Sharon Horesh Bergquist, MD
Tarah Hines
Wild Women of Song (Pamela Rose, Kristen Strom, Scott Sorkin, Ruth Davies, Daria “Shani” Johnson)
Aman Keays
Laura West
Pat Mitchell
Laura Turner Seydel
Tom Blue Wolf

More Information About The Week

The 4 Pillars of a Meaningful Life with Diane Button

Discover What Matters Most in Your One Big, Beautiful Life

What if you had the tools to make the rest of your life the most meaningful years of all? What if you knew what would matter most to you at the end of your life? This week we invite you into a deep and thought-provoking conversation about how you are living—and how you want to live from now on. Drawing from her book What Matters Most, Diane Button gently introduces the wisdom that emerges when we listen to those facing the end of life—and when we allow our own mortality to become a teacher rather than a threat.

This workshop is designed for you to explore all that is percolating inside you, some of which you may know, and some dreams or ideas that are still waiting to surface. Let’s look at it all and discover what matters most… to you. Let’s find out what motivates you, what tugs at your heart, and how can you continue to grow and love deeply throughout your life, both as an individual and in community with your circle of people on this planet.

Session 1: Waking Up to What Matters Most
There are nuggets of wisdom waiting for you when you are willing to pause, pay attention, and contemplate each moment of life, from now until your final day. This session explores one of the central insights from What Matters Most: that awareness of death has a remarkable way of waking us up to life. Drawing on stories from people nearing the end of life, we will highlight the common regrets, realizations, and awakenings that arise when time feels precious. We will reflect on what falls away when life is stripped to its essential, the difference between a full life and a busy one, and how a simple pause can help us understand what matters most. The session closes with a simple reflection that sets a personal intention for the week.

Session 2: The Four Pillars of a Meaningful Life
How can we learn to live each day stronger, healthier, and better than before? The answers can be found in the knowledge of our elders, who have faced the life experiences that come with aging and time. They are the wisdom keepers, and they have a lot to teach us, especially now. Join us to learn what matters most to people at the end-of-life and discover how these four pillars can offer you a fresh start and a new opportunity to step back into life in a more meaningful way.

Session 3: Honor Your Story
This workshop will help you to discover “YOU”, and how your unique way of being manifests itself every day. When you know and care for yourself in a wholehearted way, the walls come down and your heart is better able to connect with and feel love for all people and this beautiful thing called life that we all share. This session is an invitation to shed distractions, soften defenses, and step more fully into your very own unique life.

Session 4: Leave Your Lasting Legacy
Every single person leaves a legacy. What’s yours? How will you be remembered by your family, your friends, and your community? What will people say about you when you are gone? Today you’ll have the space to think about these questions, to consider your own legacy, and to explore ideas and creative ways for passing your wisdom, traditions, and love to future generations.

Session 5: Show Up and Finish Well
Once we know what matters most at the end of life, we become free to let go of that which no longer serves us. We lighten our load, and we intentionally move forward in the direction of our dreams. We live with everyday joy, knowing that we are prepared and at peace for whatever life brings our way. This session offers essential tools, including The Final Checklist, to incorporate the four components of a meaningful life into an everyday practice, as we finish this week together and step more fully into our lives away from the Ranch.

 

Diane Button has dedicated her life’s work to serving the dying. Her courageous clients are her greatest teachers, revealing what matters most to make a full and meaningful. She is the author of several bestselling books including, Dear Death: Finding Meaning in Life, Peace in Death, and Joy in an Ordinary Day.  She is a founding partner of the Bay Area End-of-Life Doula Alliance, and a lead instructor for the End-of-Life Doula Program at University of Vermont’s Osher Center for Integrative Health. Diane’s latest best-selling book, What Matters Most: Lessons the Dying Teach Us About Living was written at the invitation of Maria Shriver and published by Penguin Random House. It is available everywhere books are sold. You can learn more at www.dianebutton.com.

Building Our Relationships to Cultivate Connection with Michele Roden

Building Our Relationships to Cultivate Connection
Deep connections shape our lives. Relationships- whether with ourselves, others, or the world around us- are at the heart of personal growth. Join us on this journey of discovery and empowerment in a five-part workshop series invites you to explore these relationships through reflective, engaging, and joy-filled activities that inspire self-mastery and connection.

Day One: Relationship with Self
The relationship with yourself is the foundation of all others. In this session, we’ll delve into self-talk, the beliefs that guide your choices, and ways to cultivate a compassionate and supportive inner dialogue. Strengthening this bond with yourself paves the way for greater resilience, confidence, and clarity.

Day Two: Relationship with the Environment Around Us
Our surroundings influence us more than we often realize. This session explores the dynamic connection between you and your environment—physical, emotional, and energetic. Learn to notice what uplifts or drains you and how to create spaces that nurture your well-being and inspire possibility.

Day Three: Relationship with Others
From friendships to family and beyond, human connection is a source of deep fulfillment—and sometimes challenge. This workshop examines how you engage with others, offering tools to strengthen communication, build trust, and foster meaningful relationships. Discover how showing up authentically can transform the way you connect.

Day Four: Relationship with the Present
Life happens in the present moment, yet it’s easy to let it slip away unnoticed. In this session, we’ll practice mindfulness and presence, exploring techniques to anchor yourself in the now. Through awareness and intention, discover how to bring more joy, gratitude, and opportunity into your everyday experience.

Day Five: Relationship in Complexity
Life’s complexities can feel overwhelming, but within them lies the potential for growth and clarity. This session focuses on identifying the forces that pull you in different directions and finding your center amidst it all. Develop practical strategies to navigate challenges with grace and align your life with what matters most.

 

 

What happens when you bring your whole self to a conversation? Michele Roden has spent over two decades discovering the answer—guiding thousands of leaders, physicians, and teams through the kind of transformative dialogue that changes not just how we work, but how we show up in the world.

As a Master Certified Coach through the International Coach Federation, Michele creates what her clients call “safe space for the hard stuff” – those challenging conversations that teams who must work together well often need most. Her gift lies in helping executives move from reactive to strategic, from isolated to connected, from stuck patterns to meaningful impact.

Michele’s approach is refreshingly human. She once heard that you can do all the self-improvement work in the world, but then get into relationship and see how it works! This wisdom infuses everything she does—from designing leadership programs for healthcare and fintech organizations to facilitating breakthroughs in manufacturing teams.

Endlessly fascinated by how we interact with each other, Michele believes our greatest growth happens not in isolation, but in connection. Her experiential workshops invite real-life application and honest exploration – the kind that sticks with you long after you leave the room.

Tango, Jazz and Latin Rhythms on Piano with Emiliano Messiez

Emiliano Messiez is a Latin Grammy–nominated pianist and composer from Buenos Aires, Argentina, now based in New York City. Renowned for his distinctive sound and versatility, he seamlessly blends tango, jazz, classical, rock, and Latin American rhythms. Emiliano is the founder and director of Típica Messiez, a 10-piece tango orchestra, and the pianist of the Romo-Agri-Messiez Trio. In addition to composing several musicals, he has written original music for his own projects, recording multiple albums that showcase his unique artistic vision. His performances have captivated audiences worldwide, with highlights including appearances at Lincoln Center, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Houston Grand Opera, and the Carnegie Hall Citywide series.

The Tango / Pedro Giraudo Tango Quartet

Latin GRAMMY winner Pedro Giraudo Tango Quartet is a virtuoso quartet that elegantly expresses the beauty and passion of the tango repertoire.

TANGO: THEN AND NOW
This program includes selections from great tango masters from the 1930s to the present, including Alfredo Gobbi, Francisco Canaro, Osvaldo Pugliese, the revolutionary Astor Piazzolla, and—evolving even further—Pedro Giraudo.

In this program, the ensemble offers the audience insight into how tango evolved from marginal venues to cafés and dance halls, and finally to prominent concert halls. The musical journey will be accompanied by short anecdotes about the main figures in the history of tango, as well as explanations of the principal rhythms of the genre (milonga, waltz, and tango).

THE PIAZZOLLA LEGACY
This program demonstrates, through selections of Piazzolla’s music, how he almost single-handedly took tango from small cafés, bars, and dance halls into the world of legitimate, prominent concert venues.

His legacy lies in conceiving of and composing tango as concert music, opening the door to the classical world and to leading contemporary composers such as Pedro Giraudo, who continue to evolve tango even further within the concert-music tradition.

THE FOUR SEASONS OF BUENOS AIRES
This program is centered around four pieces that Piazzolla wrote as his impressions of each of the seasons in Buenos Aires. Although they were originally written as separate works, they are often performed as a suite, as in this performance by the Pedro Giraudo Tango Quartet—a powerful and evocative centerpiece for the program.

Also included are several original compositions by other composers that complement the Piazzolla work.

 

The Pedro Giraudo Tango Quartet is widely acknowledged as one of the most compelling tango ensembles today, moving forward from the giant footsteps of Astor Piazzolla, and continuing to take this musical genre into new territories. With immense respect for its roots and rich musical past, the ensemble effectively serves as an active ambassador of tango and a proponent of its evolution. The quartet’s fervent and virtuosic musical style takes elements from Argentine tango, European classical music, and American jazz, and combines them gracefully and organically, bringing something new and exciting to the form while retaining all the lushness and beauty that characterizes the genre.

Mindfulness for All Ages with River Morgan, Bija Vardy & Jasper Vardy

Experience mindfulness as a shared family practice in this welcoming, all-ages class led by third-generation mindfulness instructor River Morgan alongside her children, Bija and Jasper Vardy. Through gentle movement, breath, and awareness practices, families are invited to slow down, connect, and cultivate presence together—meeting each moment with curiosity and ease.

River Morgan brings more than 25 years of teaching experience rooted in a lifelong study of movement, mindfulness, and the body. A certified yoga, meditation, and Gyrotonic® instructor, she is authorized to lead teacher trainings through Yoga Alliance and holds a BFA in Dance, having toured internationally with professional dance companies.

River has been featured in Yoga Journal, Forbes, Elephant Journal, Aspen Peak Magazine, and has taught extensively at conferences and retreats including the Aspen Ideas Festival and the American Renewable Energy Summit. Her classes are available on platforms such as Deepak Chopra’s Jiyo app, and she has been a guest presenter at Rancho La Puerta for over 30 visits, as well as at the Golden Door and aboard The World.   Known for her grounded, inclusive teaching style, River creates experiences that invite participants of all ages to come home to the body, calm the mind, and connect more fully to themselves and one another.

Incorporating Fasting into Your Daily Routine to Improve Overall Health with Pam Taub, MD.

Optimizing your Circadian Rhythm and Cardiovascular Health through Intermittent Fasting

Dr. Taub’s presentation will review the science behind intermittent fasting including some the research studies she has conducted. She will present practical tips on how to incorporate fasting into one’s daily routine.

Beyond the Basic Checkup: The Latest Science on Detecting and Preventing Heart Disease

Early detection saves lives — but knowing which tests actually matter is half the battle. This talk walks through the most important blood tests and imaging tools for identifying cardiovascular risk, then reviews the science-backed strategies proven to prevent heart disease, improve cardiac function, and support a longer, healthier life.

Pam R. Taub, MD, FACC, FASPC, is a board-certified cardiologist and internationally recognized expert in cardiometabolic disease. She is the director of Preventive Cardiology, the founding director of the Step Family Cardiac Rehabilitation and Wellness Center, and a Professor of Medicine with tenure at UC San Diego.  She holds the Step Family Director’s Endowed Chair. Dr. Taub was responsible for all aspects of creating the center, which is one of the largest comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation programs in the world. She also leads the newly formed BEACON center for Lipoprotein (a) research at UC San Diego. Her clinical practice focuses on preventive cardiology, lipidology, and cardiometabolic disease, while her research investigates the impact of behavioral, technological, and pharmacological strategies on cardiometabolic health outcomes.

Dr. Taub is a federally funded researcher with support from the National Institutes of Health, the Department of Defense, the Department of Homeland Security, and the American Heart Association. She is an experienced clinical trialist and serves on the executive committee for multiple international clinical trials focused on novel cardiovascular therapies. Dr. Taub holds multiple patents, edited multiple textbooks, and is widely published with over 150 high-impact publications in top peer-reviewed journals that have impacted clinical practice.  She has also served on multiple guideline committees. Dr. Taub holds multiple leadership positions in professional societies. She is a fellow and a former board member of the American Society of Preventive Cardiology, a fellow and prior member of the American College of Cardiology’s Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease Leadership Council. Currently, she serves as Chair of the American Heart Association’s Women in Cardiology Committee.

 

Herbal Medicine for Everyday Living with Dawn Petter

Join Herbalist, Dawn Petter for an engaging and creative workshop series on the wonders of plant medicine and its many uses.

The Art of Herbal Medicine
Learn the basics of how herbs can support your health and well-being, in both food and medicinal forms. Herbalism is the oldest form of medicine and every culture has its version, discover how you can incorporate botanical remedies into your daily life using a variety of methods from this traditional approach.

Botanical Support for Digestive Wellness
Good digestion is the foundation of health and herbalists use a range of herbs to offer support. If you are curious to learn how to calm inflammation, release tension, move stagnant energy, and heal the gut, then taking a look at what and how we eat is key. We’ll discuss the importance of bitters, aromatics and prebiotic herbs and delicious ways to use them.

Herbs and Foods for Brain Health
This thought-provoking class will introduce you to the herbs and foods that have traditionally been used to stimulate circulation to the brain, helping to clear mental fog, improve memory and cut down on inflammation. Learn delicious ways to incorporate these healing herbs into your daily routine enhancing your overall wellness and reducing the effects of cognitive decline.

Herbs For Stress Relief & Sleep.
Life’s challenges can leave us with frazzled nerves and sleepless nights. Herbal medicine and nourishing foods can support the body to remain calm and centered during the day, and, if necessary, offer sleep support at night. This class is filled with delicious ways to use botanical medicine to bring the body into balance, reconnect with our inner joy, and let go of tension to receive the nourishment of deep rest.

 

Dawn Petter is a clinical herbalist and flower essence practitioner based in New York City. She is a graduate of Arbor Vitae School of Traditional Herbalism and is trained as a flower essence practitioner with Delta Gardens and Findhorn Essences. Dawn offers in depth health consults and custom formulated remedies to her clients. She teaches classes and retreats at corporations and institutions including, the NY, and Brooklyn Botanic Gardens, NBC, Adobe and DE Shaw, to name a few. Her classes are imaginative, accessible, and encourage students to use herbal medicine in everyday life. Dawn is the owner of Petalune Herbals which specializes in wild and organic herbal skincare. Visit www.petaluneherbals.com to learn more about her offerings, and follow her on social media @petaluneherbals .

Corrective Exercise with Anthony Carey

Functional Balance:  Top Down and Bottom Up. 
Most balance training emphasizes stillness and exercises like single leg balance.  Functional balance involves progressions that are dynamic and involve all of our sensory inputs.  Get instant benefits from learning to improve all aspects of your balance.  

What the Hips Lack, Hurts the Back
Lower back pain is very complex.  One of the most productive things we can do mechanically for our lower backs is to maintain hip mobility throughout life.  In this class, we will address the functional and integrated ways to improve your hip mobility in 3 dimensions that keep your lower back happy for years to come.  

Your Posture Tune-Up
Feeling hunched over all day?  Maybe so, but posture is more than just your upper back and neck.  In this class, you will experience corrective exercises that will improve your overall body posture and symmetry and making you feel better and younger.


Anthony Carey holds a Master’s degree in biomechanics and athletic training and is internationally recognized as a leading expert on biomechanics, corrective exercise, and their impact on musculoskeletal pain and function. Since founding Function First in 1994, he has attracted clients from 17 countries and 33 U.S. states. Anthony is the inventor of the Core-Tex® and Core-Tex Sit, innovative reaction tools used by professional sports teams, universities, and health clubs worldwide. His accolades include being Personal Fitness Professional Magazine’s first Personal Trainer of the Year (2009), an IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year Finalist (2017), and IDEA China Innovation Award winner (2020). 

Fitness with Erin Paruszewski

BUILD
Lift heavy weights while prioritizing the fundamentals of alignment. Experience the benefits of getting stronger, building more muscle, increasing bone density, improving endurance, and more.
WHAT YOU NEED: You will need a variety of heavier weights, stable surface, mat or soft surface, ball, block, loop bands, and a theraband.

ALIGN
Strengthen, align, and improve balance and flexibility. These classes combine elements of yoga, pilates, barre, and physical therapy. Our unique alignment-based approach teaches you to move better, improve performance, and reduce pain so you can function better in everything you do. It’s full-body for everybody and requires minimal space and equipment.
Strengthen, align, and enhance your balance and flexibility through this full-body class that blends the principles of yoga, Pilates, barre, and physical therapy. This unique, alignment-focused approach helps you move better, perform better, and feel better—reducing pain and improving function in everyday life. Exercises can be easily modified for all levels.
WHAT YOU NEED: Mat or soft surface to kneel and lie down on, a stable surface like a barre or wall, light hand weights, a yoga block, squishy ball, theraband, and a loop band.

CARDIO ALIGN
This high-energy, low-impact class will boost your endorphins and make you sweat all while preserving your joints! Cardio Align is all about a low impact, High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and is proven to increase your heart rate while building strength and endurance.
WHAT YOU NEED: Mat or soft surface to kneel and lie down on, a stable surface like a barre.

RECHARGE: MOBILITY & INJURY PREVENTION
Recharge your body, recharge your life. This class incorporates myofascial release and stretching for mobility and pain relief. You’ll use massage therapy balls to release tension, increase range of motion, and feel better. The best part? You can take this skill set with you when you leave the Ranch. Rolling is the gift that keeps on giving.
WHAT YOU NEED: Mat or soft surface, massage therapy balls as well as other supportive props like the block, squishy ball, chair, stool, and wall.

 

Erin Paruszewski is the Founder and CEO of Alkalign Studios, a wellness company that integrates functional fitness, mobility, mindfulness, and health coaching. With over 20 years of experience, Erin created Alkalign to offer a sustainable, science-based alternative to extreme fitness culture. A certified holistic health coach and author of It Doesn’t Have to Hurt to Work, she empowers others to move with strength, alignment, and self-awareness for lifelong well-being.

Gyrokinesis with Elizabeth Jackson

Experience the essential joy of living in a moving body with this Gyrokinesis® class. Each session begins with a gentle warm-up that awakens the senses, followed by fluid exercises blending movement, rhythm, and breath. This practice decompresses the spine while strengthening and stabilizing the core. It balances every system and joint, reduces toxins, prevents injury, and inspires natural movement patterns—creating a harmoniously balanced, supple, and functional body.

 

Elizabeth Jackson

Elizabeth Jackson, owner of White Lotus Studio, is a Master Trainer of the GYROTONIC® System and studied directly with its creator, Juliu Horvath. She is also an instructor trainer for GYROKINESIS® classes, GYROTONIC® Specialized Equipment, and is co-author of the Gyrokinesis® Essentials manuals, which offer movement programs focusing on the lumbar, thoracic, and cervical spine.

Her educational background includes degrees from Harvard University and the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. Her academic journey bridged physics, physiology, and philosophy, and was driven by a deep curiosity about the workings of nature. Personal struggles with scoliosis sparked her passion for alternative therapies and movement systems designed to workout the body the way its designed to move.

Elizabeth holds a Pilates certification from Romana Kryzanowska and Yamuna Body Rolling certification from Yamuna Zake. Her practice is further enhanced by influences from Myofascial Therapist Tom Myers and Cranial Sacral Instructor Gary Strauss.

With over 27 years of hands-on experience, Elizabeth has worked with a diverse clientele, including professional athletes, the handicapped, the elderly, and others seeking improved health and well-being. Her career reflects dedication, skill, and a holistic-somatic understanding of the body.

Pickleball Pro-Week with Mario Boschi

Whether you’re holding steady at a 2.5 or aiming to break through to a 4.0, our Specialty Pickleball Weeks are designed to challenge, inspire, and uplift your game—all within the nurturing environment of Rancho La Puerta.

Each week includes:

  • 15 hours of hands-on, small-group instruction
  • Unlimited open play for practice and fun
  • Three Spa Treatments: Ranch Classic Massage 50-minute, Back Neck and Shoulders 50-minute, and  Sports Recovery 50-minute
  • Snacks and drinks provided at the courts during clinic hours
  • Welcome gift bag valued at $100
  • Full access to The Ranch’s wellness offerings—morning hikes, spa, farm-to-table meals, fitness classes, and more.

You’ll dive into:

  • Latest techniques and strategies
  • Grips and stroke development
  • Dink strategies and shot selection
  • Serve and return
  • Specialist shots and positioning
  • Rules and court etiquette
  • Opportunity to demo and purchase high level paddles.
  • And so much more

Pickleball Program cost is $1000 per person, per week.*

Visit our Rates and Specials page for room prices and more booking information.

*Open to level 2.5 to 4.0 players only. Minimum 16 players/Maximum 24 players.  Advanced sign-up required. Must be a registered guest staying 7-nights (Saturday to Saturday) at Rancho La Puerta. The pickleball program cost is in addition to room reservation fees.

More Information About The Week

 

Mario Boschi, Co-Owner- Denver Iconics

As a son of Italian immigrants, Mario grew up in Canada in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Whether it was a puck, a soccer ball, or a basketball, Mario has always been a natural athlete. He received a college scholarship for basketball and played premier recreational soccer until he was 48 years-old. Mario ran a Honda/Acura dealership in his hometown for 27 years, and received the Honda Council of Excellence Award for his leadership and work for Honda and Acura. Mario moved to the States in 2018 to be with his wife, Jen. Together in 2019, they formed their business, The Boschi Group, a career coaching and consulting business.

In 2020, Mario received his Level II Pickleball Instructor Certification (IPTPA). He has taught in Steamboat Springs and Denver, Colorado, and is currently the head pro for pickleball for Club Greenwood in Greenwood Village, Colorado. In addition, he teaches clinics in Key Biscayne, Florida and Aspen, Colorado. In 2023, Mario and Jen joined the NPL family as co-owners of the Denver Iconics, and Mario currently plays on the team.

Pickleball Pro-Week with Mario Boschi

Whether you’re holding steady at a 2.5 or aiming to break through to a 4.0, our Specialty Pickleball Weeks are designed to challenge, inspire, and uplift your game—all within the nurturing environment of Rancho La Puerta.

Each week includes:

  • 15 hours of hands-on, small-group instruction
  • Unlimited open play for practice and fun
  • Three Spa Treatments: Ranch Classic Massage 50-minute, Back Neck and Shoulders 50-minute, and  Sports Recovery 50-minute
  • Snacks and drinks provided at the courts during clinic hours
  • Welcome gift bag valued at $100
  • Full access to The Ranch’s wellness offerings—morning hikes, spa, farm-to-table meals, fitness classes, and more.

You’ll dive into:

  • Latest techniques and strategies
  • Grips and stroke development
  • Dink strategies and shot selection
  • Serve and return
  • Specialist shots and positioning
  • Rules and court etiquette
  • Opportunity to demo and purchase high level paddles.
  • And so much more

Pickleball Program cost is $1000 per person, per week.*

Visit our Rates and Specials page for room prices and more booking information.

*Open to level 2.5 to 4.0 players only. Minimum 16 players/Maximum 24 players.  Advanced sign-up required. Must be a registered guest staying 7-nights (Saturday to Saturday) at Rancho La Puerta. The pickleball program cost is in addition to room reservation fees.

More Information About The Week

 

Mario Boschi, Co-Owner- Denver Iconics

As a son of Italian immigrants, Mario grew up in Canada in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Whether it was a puck, a soccer ball, or a basketball, Mario has always been a natural athlete. He received a college scholarship for basketball and played premier recreational soccer until he was 48 years-old. Mario ran a Honda/Acura dealership in his hometown for 27 years, and received the Honda Council of Excellence Award for his leadership and work for Honda and Acura. Mario moved to the States in 2018 to be with his wife, Jen. Together in 2019, they formed their business, The Boschi Group, a career coaching and consulting business.

In 2020, Mario received his Level II Pickleball Instructor Certification (IPTPA). He has taught in Steamboat Springs and Denver, Colorado, and is currently the head pro for pickleball for Club Greenwood in Greenwood Village, Colorado. In addition, he teaches clinics in Key Biscayne, Florida and Aspen, Colorado. In 2023, Mario and Jen joined the NPL family as co-owners of the Denver Iconics, and Mario currently plays on the team.

Pickleball Pro-Week with Mario Boschi

Whether you’re holding steady at a 2.5 or aiming to break through to a 4.0, our Specialty Pickleball Weeks are designed to challenge, inspire, and uplift your game—all within the nurturing environment of Rancho La Puerta.

Each week includes:

  • 15 hours of hands-on, small-group instruction
  • Unlimited open play for practice and fun
  • Three Spa Treatments: Ranch Classic Massage 50-minute, Back Neck and Shoulders 50-minute, and  Sports Recovery 50-minute
  • Snacks and drinks provided at the courts during clinic hours
  • Welcome gift bag valued at $100
  • Full access to The Ranch’s wellness offerings—morning hikes, spa, farm-to-table meals, fitness classes, and more.

You’ll dive into:

  • Latest techniques and strategies
  • Grips and stroke development
  • Dink strategies and shot selection
  • Serve and return
  • Specialist shots and positioning
  • Rules and court etiquette
  • Opportunity to demo and purchase high level paddles.
  • And so much more

Pickleball Program cost is $1000 per person, per week.*

Visit our Rates and Specials page for room prices and more booking information.

*Open to level 2.5 to 4.0 players only. Minimum 16 players/Maximum 24 players.  Advanced sign-up required. Must be a registered guest staying 7-nights (Saturday to Saturday) at Rancho La Puerta. The pickleball program cost is in addition to room reservation fees.

More Information About The Week

 

Mario Boschi, Co-Owner- Denver Iconics

As a son of Italian immigrants, Mario grew up in Canada in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Whether it was a puck, a soccer ball, or a basketball, Mario has always been a natural athlete. He received a college scholarship for basketball and played premier recreational soccer until he was 48 years-old. Mario ran a Honda/Acura dealership in his hometown for 27 years, and received the Honda Council of Excellence Award for his leadership and work for Honda and Acura. Mario moved to the States in 2018 to be with his wife, Jen. Together in 2019, they formed their business, The Boschi Group, a career coaching and consulting business.

In 2020, Mario received his Level II Pickleball Instructor Certification (IPTPA). He has taught in Steamboat Springs and Denver, Colorado, and is currently the head pro for pickleball for Club Greenwood in Greenwood Village, Colorado. In addition, he teaches clinics in Key Biscayne, Florida and Aspen, Colorado. In 2023, Mario and Jen joined the NPL family as co-owners of the Denver Iconics, and Mario currently plays on the team.

Cooking with the Seasons with Chef Vivian Mercado

Celebrate the flavors of the season with this hands-on cooking class inspired by our organic farm. You’ll learn to prepare fresh, seasonal recipes along with Ranch classics that honor nature’s rhythms rooted in the Rancho La Puerta philosophy of wellness, sustainability, and farm-to-table living.

Cooking with the Seasons invites guests to explore recipes that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients many sourced directly from our organic farm.

Whether you’re a passionate home cook or just starting your culinary journey, you’ll leave with practical skills, inspiration, and a deeper connection to nature through food.

Cooking with the Seasons:Sign Up

Tuesday 11:00 am – 2:30 pm
Capacity: 14 guests
Price: $100 USD, tax included

 

Chef Vivian MercadoChef Vivian Mercado is a young culinary talent with roots deeply intertwined with the vibrant flavors of her homeland, Baja California. Graduating from the Culinary School at the University of Baja California UABC in Ensenada, Vivian embarked on a culinary journey that began by honing her skills at a wholesome meal prep kitchen.  Eager to explore the diverse tapestry of local Baja flavors, she took the role of a young manager at a culinary venture, where she delved into the realms of local wines, specialty coffee and artisanal bread.  After three enriching years, Vivian returned to Tecate, where she found her culinary sanctuary at Rancho La Puerta.  Starting at Tierra Alegre Juice Bar, Vivian delighted our guests with delicious and nutritious smoothies and cold pressed juice creations; a year later she had the opportunity to join the main Rancho La Puerta kitchen as Sous Chef for three years.   Now, at La Cocina que Canta, Head Chef Vivian brings her expertise, creativity, and unwavering passion for culinary excellence to every dish she crafts, to every class she teaches.