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Foundations of Flourishing with Ilene Brenner Schaffer

Foundations of Flourishing – Thrive through change while growing a vibrant life of meaning and connection. Learn the science of well-being to create your best possible future.

Module 1
Navigating Change: Living with Grace and Strength
Each life stage brings its own twists and turns – some welcome, others that knock the wind out of us. Together, we’ll explore the cycle of change, its impact on our mind and body, and strategies for adapting while standing in your power.

Module 2
Get Out of Your Own Way: Managing Your Mindset
Our minds have the power to stop us in our tracks or open doors to new opportunities. We’ll examine mental blockers and explore practical strategies to shift these thought patterns, empowering you to transform limiting beliefs into positive actions.

Module 3
The Optimism Effect: How It Can Shift Your Life
How you experience life matters. Optimism is more than seeing the world through rose-colored glasses. It impacts our longevity, our health, and our relationships. Good news –  there are evidence-informed strategies to boost your optimism. Discover why optimism is vital to your well-being and how to strengthen your optimistic outlook.

Module 4
Power of Connection: The Heart of Well-Being
Our connections with others are vital to our well-being and resilience. This session explores strategies for cultivating supportive and uplifting relationships. Discover how to deepen high-quality connections, maintain meaningful friendships, and surround yourself with people who help you thrive through life’s highs and lows.

Module 5
You Make A Difference: Creating Your Imprint
Each of us leaves a unique stamp on the world. It’s never too late to lead a life filled with meaning—one that positively impacts others. Mattering and feeling valued are essential to our well-being. In this session, you’ll reflect on the seeds you’ve already planted and explore fresh ways to cultivate a legacy that speaks to the heart of who you are.

 

Ilene Brenner Schaffer fell in love with The Ranch in the 70s as a young girl when her dad was a regular speaker on holistic health. She is thrilled to return to share her expertise in life transitions and positive psychology (the science of wellbeing). Ilene’s greatest joy is helping clients flourish through life’s constant changes. She loves witnessing someone’s confidence grow as they embrace their strengths, deepen relationships, and step into their power zone. In addition to her life coaching practice, she leads a global executive coaching firm dedicated to leadership and well-being. She is also the host of the weekly podcast “What’s Possible.” Ilene is a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) through the International Coaching Federation, has a Masters of Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, and a Masters in Counseling Psychology with a focus in Life Transitions from the University of San Francisco. She is a mom to two young adult daughters and lives in San Diego with her husband where she regularly enjoys a great beach walk with friends, family, and clients.

www.ileneschaffer.com

Foundations of Flourishing with Ilene Brenner Schaffer

Foundations of Flourishing – Thrive through change while growing a vibrant life of meaning and connection. Learn the science of well-being to create your best possible future.

Module 1
Navigating Change: Living with Grace and Strength
Each life stage brings its own twists and turns – some welcome, others that knock the wind out of us. Together, we’ll explore the cycle of change, its impact on our mind and body, and strategies for adapting while standing in your power.

Module 2
Get Out of Your Own Way: Managing Your Mindset
Our minds have the power to stop us in our tracks or open doors to new opportunities. We’ll examine mental blockers and explore practical strategies to shift these thought patterns, empowering you to transform limiting beliefs into positive actions.

Module 3
The Optimism Effect: How It Can Shift Your Life
How you experience life matters. Optimism is more than seeing the world through rose-colored glasses. It impacts our longevity, our health, and our relationships. Good news –  there are evidence-informed strategies to boost your optimism. Discover why optimism is vital to your well-being and how to strengthen your optimistic outlook.

Module 4
Power of Connection: The Heart of Well-Being
Our connections with others are vital to our well-being and resilience. This session explores strategies for cultivating supportive and uplifting relationships. Discover how to deepen high-quality connections, maintain meaningful friendships, and surround yourself with people who help you thrive through life’s highs and lows.

Module 5
You Make A Difference: Creating Your Imprint
Each of us leaves a unique stamp on the world. It’s never too late to lead a life filled with meaning—one that positively impacts others. Mattering and feeling valued are essential to our well-being. In this session, you’ll reflect on the seeds you’ve already planted and explore fresh ways to cultivate a legacy that speaks to the heart of who you are.

 

Ilene Brenner Schaffer fell in love with The Ranch in the 70s as a young girl when her dad was a regular speaker on holistic health. She is thrilled to return to share her expertise in life transitions and positive psychology (the science of wellbeing). Ilene’s greatest joy is helping clients flourish through life’s constant changes. She loves witnessing someone’s confidence grow as they embrace their strengths, deepen relationships, and step into their power zone. In addition to her life coaching practice, she leads a global executive coaching firm dedicated to leadership and well-being. She is also the host of the weekly podcast “What’s Possible.” Ilene is a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) through the International Coaching Federation, has a Masters of Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, and a Masters in Counseling Psychology with a focus in Life Transitions from the University of San Francisco. She is a mom to two young adult daughters and lives in San Diego with her husband where she regularly enjoys a great beach walk with friends, family, and clients.

www.ileneschaffer.com

Yoga with Lorraine Desser Schulze

Lorraine Desser Schulze is a seasoned yoga and mindfulness teacher with 25 years of practice. She completed her 200-hour training at Pure Yoga (2011) and a 500-hour Mindfulness Yoga & Meditation Teacher Training at Spirit Rock (2013), with advanced trainings in the U.S. and India. Blending somatic movement, breathwork, and meditation, her teaching supports emotional release, strength, and self-discovery. Lorraine also leads international retreats that offer space for deep connection, healing, and joy. A nature-loving, plant-based cook and devoted dog mom, she brings warmth, humor, and heart — inviting students to grow with curiosity, compassion, and renewed inspiration.

Fitness with Michelle Dozois

Metabolic Fusion
A high-energy workout that blends strength, cardio, and HIIT into one fun, full-body experience. Using dumbbells, bodyweight, and small equipment, you’ll build strength, boost endurance, and improve overall fitness through purposeful, music-driven movement.

SHiNE Dance Fitness™
SHiNE DANCE FITNESS pairs today’s hottest music with simple, high-energy routines that make everyone feel like a dancer. Each class blends hip hop, jazz, lyrical, and athletic styles, giving participants the chance to tap into different alter egos while enjoying a workout that is not only effective but incredibly fun and empowering.

Pure Strength
Get ready to strengthen your entire body from head to toe! This class is for anyone who wants to increase their muscular strength and endurance. A variety of carefully crafted muscle-building sequences will help you build and sculpt your body.

 

Sunday: Pure Strength: Full Body Strength
Monday: SHiNE Dance Fitness: Party People
Tuesday: Pure Strength: Strength, Stability & Power
Wednesday: Metabolic Fusion: Elevate
Thursday: SHiNE Dance Fitness: Sweet & Spicy
Friday: Metabolic Fusion: Ignite

 

Michelle Dozois has inspired millions of people to live stronger, healthier, more active lives over her three-decade career. She has taught instructors in more than 14 countries, starred in fitness DVDs that have sold more than three million copies, and has always believed training should be both highly effective and genuinely fun. That philosophy shapes every music-driven movement experience she creates. Her mission is to help people use exercise to prepare for the life they want to live, not simply the body they want to have. 

Yoga for EveryBODY with Shayne Morgan

Yoga for EveryBODY  is an all-level yoga class that builds foundational understanding of the body, mind and spirit. Whether a never-ever or an experienced practitioner, Shayne will give you tools to take to any class to enjoy healthy practice.

 

Shayne Morgan was born and raised in San Diego and graduated from UCSD. Though raised traditionally, her Mother introduced her to Meditation at a young age, Shayne has lived in Aspen, CO and taught Yoga and Meditation for over 30 years. Currently she teaches at the Aspen Institute, on The World, a private super yacht, and has taught at Rancho La Puerta over 20 times. She had a studio in Snowmass and took groups on Yoga Retreats in CO, Mexico, the Caribbean and Yoga for Competitive Cyclists in CA. Yoga for EveryBODY and Meditation: It’s Not What You Think, makes these practices accessible for beginners as well as regular practitioners.

Core Power & Injury Prevention for Pickleball with Shanti Tilling

Day 1: Core Foundations & Stability
Goal: Build the deep core control and body awareness needed for safe, powerful movement on the pickleball court.
In this session, you’ll activate the muscles that form your foundation—especially your deep core, glutes, and spinal stabilizers. These exercises train your body to move better, with more control, balance, and coordination.

Day 2: Glute Strength & Knee Stability
Goal: Strengthen the glutes and support the knees to prevent injuries and improve lower-body control on the court.
Pickleball demands powerful lower-body movements. This workout improves knee alignment, hip control, and glute activation—key elements in preventing common overuse injuries and enhancing your ability to move explosively in any direction.

Day 3: Rotational Power Essentials
Goal: Train your body to create powerful, controlled rotation—the secret behind faster reactions and better shot mechanics on the pickleball court.
Today’s workout teaches your core to rotate from the right places— your hips and midsection— WITHOUT overloading your low back. By combining standing, kneeling, and plank positions, you’ll challenge your core to move dynamically and transfer force the way your body needs to in real games.

Day 4: Lateral Stability, Balance + Rotational Power 2
Goal: Strengthen the muscles that support side-to-side movement so you can cut, shuffle, and react quickly—without risking injury.
Pickleball demands constant lateral movement. This workout blends dynamic lateral strength with balance drills to train the stabilizers of your hips, knees, and core to control those side-to-side shifts and rotational transitions.

Day 5: Anti-Rotation & Core Endurance
Goal: Build a resilient core that resists unwanted movement and supports your body through every rally—no matter how long the match.
Pickleball involves constant rotation—but not all rotation is good. Your core needs to know when to move and when to stabilize. Anti-rotation training builds deeper core control and muscular endurance, reducing the risk of back pain, shoulder strain, and sloppy movement under fatigue.

Day 6: Deceleration
Goal: Train your core and lower body to handle impact and control momentum—so you can stop, shift, and explode into your next move with total control.
This workout helps you absorb force safely, stabilize quickly, and prepare your body to react with power and confidence—especially during fast-paced play.

Day 7: Core Mobility & Recovery
Ready to hit the court stronger than ever?
Goal: Gently restore and improve mobility in your spine, hips, and core—so you can move freely, recover faster, and stay injury-free.

 

 

Shanti Tilling is a leading personal trainer and fitness instructor, shaping the lives of clients around the globe. She has spent the last 25 years training indoors and outside, flying internationally with corporate clients, and 7 years as the onsite fitness instructor for 2 major film studios. Shanti travels domestically and internationally leading workshops and corporate wellness programs. Shanti has also been the face of numerous fitness products and has been featured in SHAPE Magazine, ATHLETA and CHEVEROLET ad campaigns.

As a personal trainer, Shanti’s passion is inspiring people to be strong for what they love to do, and helping them create their own healthy, active lives. She is an outdoor fitness junkie and has cycled, hiked, run, surfed, paddled, and scuba-dived all over the world. This love for adventurous travel combined with her passion for fitness led Shanti to create Sweat Play Live fitness retreats in 2010.

Pilates with Susie Golebie

Introductory Mat Class – This class is perfect for those with little or no Pilates experience. Guests are welcome to join this progressive introduction to the Pilates mat exercises. Learn the fundamentals of Pilates and learn the benefits of Pilates movement from a functional standpoint.

Intermediate Mat Class – Guests some familiarity with Pilates mat work will enjoy this class. This mat class includes all of the basic Pilates exercises with more flow. Intermediate exercises and variations are offered for those seeking more challenging options. Small props such as magic circles, balls and bands may be included in this class to enhance the experience.

Pilates Beginner Reformer – Guests with little or no Pilates experience are welcome in this introductory reformer class. Clients will learn some of the basic reformer exercises in a safe but challenging class with emphasis on form and proper execution of the exercises.

Pilates Level 2 Reformer – This class is for guests who have been on a Pilates reformer. The class includes the basic reformer exercises with some variations, and level 2 exercises are offered for those seeking more intensity.

Pilates Introductory Tower – This class is designed to introduce guests to exercises utilizing the Tower – the roll back bar, the arm springs, the legs springs and the push through bar will all be included. Previous Pilates experience is beneficial for those interested in joining this class.

Pilates Level 2 Tower – This class incorporates all of the tower apparatus – roll back bar, push through bar, leg springs and arm springs – and is designed for guests who have previous Pilates experience. The class includes the familiar exercises as well as a few variations for a complete workout.

 

Susie Golebie is a Pittsburgh, PA based Pilates instructor who has been sharing her passion for Pilates since 2010. She is comprehensively trained (Power Pilates 600-hour program), nationally certified (NCPT); and has participated in more than 100 hours of workshops and intensives. Susie considers her Pilates training a life long journey of education, movement, and sharing the Pilates method. Whether individuals and groups are beginners or experienced Pilates practitioners, Susie tailors the session to their needs. She enjoys building relationships to help clients achieve their goals — sessions include lots of hard work with some laughter as well.

 

Aqua Classes with Connie Lagerhausen

Connie Lagerhausen has been an aquatic fitness professional, swim coach and swim instructor for over three decades and has been certified in all areas of aquatics which gives her a well-rounded background in swimming and aqua fitness. Connie specializes in aqua aerobics, aqua running, aqua yoga, endurance swimming, aquatic personal training, private adult swim lessons, and more recently aqua cycling and paddleboard fitness and yoga. She has recently relocated after 29 years in Arizona to Wisconsin where she spent the last several years developing unique adult aquatic swim and fitness programs and is now helping to develop similar programs for the YMCA at Pabst Farms in Oconomowoc, WI.  Certifications include: AEA, 200 RYT, Aqua Yoga and EBFA Barefoot Level One specialist. She has presented numerous continuing education workshops for FitnessFest, AquaCon, SCW Mania and IAFC.

Pickleball with Rich Roe

Day 1:
Class 1: Pickleball Positioning (intermediate/advanced). Even intermediate and advanced players need to dial in their positioning and strategy for the first 4 shots. Today, we practice “Serve and Stay”, “Return and Run”, where to target thirds, and “Fourth Find Feet”. 

Class 2: Intro to Pickleball (beginner). Beginner pickleball players will learn the basics of the first four shots. 

Day 2:
Class 1: Pickleball “Third shot” (intermediate/advanced). A quality third shot is key to advancing your game. We will practice drives, drops, and the drive/drop combo. We will incorporate Liveball to practice the skills in a fast-paced environment. 

Class 2: Pickleball Fundamentals (beginner). Knowing the rules helps you understand where to be and what shots to go for. We also go over the somewhat confusing scoring system! 

Day 3:
Class 1: Pickleball “Kitchen” (intermediate/advanced). Paddle position, creating pressure, compact strokes… We will review the core strategies of effective play at the net. 

Class 2: Pickleball Liveball (beginner). While the serve and return are important, beginners often don’t get many opportunities to practice third shots, fourth shots and beyond. Liveball is basically pickleball starting at the third shot as I coach you through the best plays. 

Day 4: 
Class 1: Pickleball Combos (intermediate/advanced). We will practice the most effective combos, especially for the serving team: drive & drop, drop & reset, reset & aggressive dink, aggressive dink & put away. Learn how to link these shots to gain advantage through the point. We will incorporate Liveball to practice the skills in a fast-paced environment. 

Class 2: Pickleball Net Play (beginner). Today we focus on the “kitchen” or “Non-Volley” zone up near the net. 

Day 5:  
Class 1: Pickleball Lateral Positioning (intermediate/advanced). You will learn “Shading”, your lateral position. You and your partner will learn to shift together throughout the point for maximum court coverage. 

Class 2: Pickleball Shots 1-4 (beginner). You will get into the flow of the game as we map out the first four shots of the game. 

Day 6: 
Class 1: Pickleball Tournament (intermediate/advanced) Put your new skills to the test in a fun tournament. 

Class 2: Pickleball Tournament (beginner) Put your new skills to the test in a fun tournament.

 

 

Rich Roe is a professional Pickleball Instructor (PPR) and Certified Personal Trainer (ACE). For 30+ years, Rich has been helping people reach their goals. From the moment he started playing pickleball, he has been obsessed with the sport. Rich coaches in his hometown of Laguna Beach and leads pickleball retreats in Costa Rica. 

My passion is teaching positioning and strategy to all levels. “Rich has the ability to simplify concepts so I can implement new skills immediately”. He has also designed pickleball-specific strength training programs for off-the-court training and is available for private sessions at the Ranch. 

 

Self-Defense with Steve Ross

5 Day Progressive Self-Defense Training

Day 1: Understanding the Criminal Mind – Lecture
Crime Statistics
Situational Awareness
Self-Preparedness

Day 2: Weapons of Opportunity and yourself
Physical effort (3 – Simple & Easy)
Weapons in plain sight
Strike Zones on the Human Body
Body Weapons

Day 3: Simple and Practical Applications
Physical effort (6 – Simple & Moderate)
Blocks and Counter Attacks
Kicking

Day 4: Ground Defense & Escape
Physical effort (6 – Simple & Moderate)
Escaping from various body grabs
Ground Defense

Day 5: Wrap Up Review – Fight & Win
Physical effort (8 – Simple & Moderate)
Review of previous sessions
Scenario-based training
Don’t Become a Victim – Take Control
Fight Back
Win

 

Steve Ross is a nationally recognized Grandmaster and expert in self-defense, martial arts education, and creative leadership, with over five decades of experience empowering individuals and building transformative programs. As Founder and President of the United State Tang Soo Do Association and Owner of the Orange County Academy of Martial Arts, Steve has led award-winning initiatives that promote safety, discipline, and personal development.

A Certified Tactical Defense Instructor and Co-Founder of International Women’s Self-Defense Day, Steve has spearheaded global empowerment efforts, training thousands of women in over 20 countries to protect themselves and break cycles of abuse. He also founded the Kid Kicks® program, designed to equip children with age-appropriate anti-bullying, self-defense tools and life skills for long-term success.

Beyond the martial arts world, Steve is also an accomplished figure in the film industry. As CEO of Dream Media Holdings, he is currently producing multiple feature films and is known for his award-winning work as a writer, producer, and actor. His contributions to action and martial arts cinema include performances in major motion pictures such as ‘Lionheart’ with Jean-Claude Van Damme and appearances in documentaries like ‘Martial Action’. His leadership in entertainment combines creative vision with a mission-driven approach to storytelling.

Sound Bath with Jeny Dawson

Immersive Sound Healing Experience
Step into a uniquely immersive sound healing journey led by Jeny Dawson, featuring rare, high-vibrational instruments not typically offered in standard sessions. Jeny brings her personal collection of alchemy crystal singing bowls, flow chimes, and other one-of-a-kind sound tools to create a deeply resonant and transformative experience. This special session is designed to calm the nervous system, reset energetic patterns, and guide participants into a state of profound relaxation and inner harmony. With her expert facilitation and intentional soundscape, Jeny offers a truly elevated experience that goes beyond the traditional sound bath – nurturing body, mind, and spirit. 

Full Moon Sound Healing Ceremony 
Join us for a powerful full moon sound healing journey led by Jeny Dawson. Featuring her alchemy crystal bowls, gongs, drums, chimes and more, this immersive experience is designed to calm the nervous system, reset your energy, and align with the moon’s potent energy. A deeply relaxing, transformational evening for body, mind, and spirit. 

Chakra Balance Sound Healing
Experience a powerful sound healing journey designed to realign and harmonize your energy centers. Guided by Jeny Dawson and personal collection of alchemy crystal bowls, gongs, brass bowls, chimes, drums and other high-vibrational instruments, this session supports deep energetic clearing and chakra balancing. Drop into a state of relaxation as sound gently restores flow, clarity, and balance throughout your body, mind, and spirit. 

Yin Yoga & Sound Healing 
Join us for a deeply relaxing session combining slow, therapeutic yin yoga stretches suitable for all levels with immersive sound healing. Using a variety of high-vibrational instruments – including crystal singing bowls, chimes, gongs, drums, and more – Jeny creates a calming soundscape to support your body’s release and restoration. This gentle practice soothes the nervous system, resets your energy, and guides you into profound relaxation and inner harmony. Perfect for anyone seeking balance, healing, and renewal. 

 

Jeny Dawson, E-RYT 500, YACEP, and Founder of Zen Soul Balance in La Jolla, CA, is a Senior Yin Yoga Teacher and Trainer who studied under Paul Grilley, the founder of Yin Yoga. Practicing since 2002, she has trained around the world and holds certifications in yin yoga, sound healing, and yoga for children of diverse abilities. A certified Integrative Nutritional Health Counselor, Jeny blends holistic practices to support healing and transformation. She is passionate about inspiring others to live balanced lives – nurturing body, mind, and spirit through yoga, wellness, and community service. 

BollyPop Dance with Aakansha Maheshwari

BollyPop Dance Fitness is a 60-min high energy cardio workout with easy-to-follow moves and choreography. The class enables one to build overall strength and extends one’s dancing style and skills. The playlist comprises top Bollywood hits and also Latin, Hip Hop and Egyptian music. Get ready to shake, swerve, move and groove across various continents in this multicultural, adventurous wonderland of dance fun!

 

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 from 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 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 the underprivileged communities, teaching dance and music. Her devotion towards her art is solely for the purpose of spreading happiness.

 

Dance with Stephanie Herman

Have you ever wanted to dance? Now you can. Stephanie will guide you through understanding your body through movement in a more effective way. Dance your body and soul to music that will move you.

 

At the age of 19, Stephanie Herman became George Balanchine Principal Ballerina, working with Rudolf Nureyev and Mikhail Baryshnikov on some of the world’s most prominent stages. Further training in New York City included the disciplines of Pilates, the Gyrotonic Expansion System®, yoga and more.

The trademarked My Pilates Ballet program was born from efforts to heal herself. As principal ballerina, she placed tremendous demands on her body, and depended upon it not only for her livelihood but for the source of her life’s passion. After experiencing her first serious injury, she was introduced to Carola Trier, the first disciple of Joseph Pilates and later to Julio Horvath, the creator of the Gyrotronic Expansion System®. Working personally with those two amazing teachers and masters, she was able to heal her injury — in fact, ending up even stronger than before.

Certified by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM®) and PMA® Certified Pilates Teacher.  A combination of exercises, fitness programs, and workshops, coupled with extensive knowledge of human physiology allows her to provide Teacher Training.

Classics and Originals for Flute and Piano, with Brice Martin and Natalie Dalschaert

Come enjoy an entertaining evening of beautiful classical and original music for flute, piano, and exotic wind instruments.

In honor of Women’s History Month, the program will include poignant and sparkling pieces by women composers, along with the fascinating stories of how these women shaped the history of music.

Along with some classical favorites, Brice and Natalie will also treat you to several of their own compositions, with insights into the process of collaborating and composing.

Musical Meditation
Come relax and enjoy a collection of miniature musical gems, performed by Natalie Dalschaert, pianist, and Brice Martin, flutist. The selections are brief yet beautiful, and are chosen for their calming, soothing qualities.

Savor this meditative musical interlude following your morning classes, and before heading off to lunch.

 

 

Pianist Natalie Dalschaert has performed on television, coached actors and has been a production musician for the shows Star Trek: The Next Generation, Perfect Strangers, JAG, Wings, and Song of the Lark. Ms. Dalschaert has performed on many concert series with her husband, flutist Brice Martin. Performances include the Sundays at Four radio broadcasts at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Redlands Bowl, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Cal Tech and for the Los Angeles Philharmonic Committee concerts. A lover of musical theater, Natalie has been musical director and pianist for numerous shows with the Los Angeles Youth Theater. Additional concerto performances include appearances with the Chautauqua Festival Orchestra and the Toulouse Orchestra in France. Natalie is a sought-after pianist and accompanist for recitals, competitions, master classes and social events. Natalie has an active teaching studio and is a member of the Music Teachers Association of California. A number of her students have won concerto competitions and MTAC festivals. She received her Bachelor of Music degree in Piano Performance from the Juilliard School in New York and her Master of Music degree from the University of Southern California, where she received the Koldofsky Memorial Scholarship.

Brice Martin’s formal training includes degrees from The Julliard School and the University of Southern California. He is an active studio musician and plays for film, TV and commercial soundtracks. He has played for Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, The Grammy Awards Orchestra, Star Trek: Voyager, and the Wonderful World of Disney. Brice is also a composer and has written music for film and television. He specializes in woodwinds and has a large collection of exotic woodwinds from around the world.

Yin Yoga, Breathwork & Meditation – Blending the ancient wisdom of the energy body & modern science with Brahmani Liebman

The meridian energetic system is a map of awareness. Each meridian correlates to a season, physical balance & imbalance, organ, mental, emotional, spiritual qualities and more. Through the practices of Yin Yoga, Meditation, Breathwork we will dive into, explore and nourish each of these sets of meridians, energetic channels.

Yin Yoga is a balancing practice for our active yoga and life. The longer relaxed holds in Yin Yoga allow for sitting more comfortably for extended periods of time in meditation. It also stimulates prana, energy, chi through the meridians or channels of the body. This influx of energy affects the nervous system as well and the practitioner becomes calmer and more focused. Attention is drawn inward, inviting a quieting of the mind and the entire mind/body, energetic system. In so doing, this practice becomes a marriage between meditation and asana.

By turning attention inward the practitioner is invited to become intimately mindful of the moment to moment experience of the impermanent conditions of body, mind and emotions.

This inward turning and mindful attention to the changing conditions invites the direct realization of the universal law of impermanence. The universal law states simply that all conditions of body, mind, emotions and environment are changing. While in the Yin poses the whole being is open to listen and receive dharmic teachings as well as to have direct experiences that lead to deep recognitions of truth. As in all yoga practices listen to your body and allow its wisdom to guide your movement.

Each session will focus on a particular set of meridians with corresponding Yin poses, breath work, meditation & teachings. All levels are welcome. Each session can stand alone, however you are encouraged and welcome to join all of them.

Sunday
Liver / Gall Bladder – Spring, element of wood
“The liver is ruler over the spring. It is the root of life’s ultimate action…” Chinese Folk Medicine

Monday
Heart / Small Intestine – Summer, element of fire
“The Heart is the root of life. It is the seat of the spirit.” The Chinese classics

Tuesday
Spleen / Stomach – Late Summer, element of earth
“The spleen and stomach are sentries guarding the governmental storage rooms.” Chinese Folk Medicine

Wednesday
Lungs / Large Intestine – Autumn, element of metal
“The lungs are the rulers over autumn. The lungs are the stronghold and the root of the breath. Their condition manifests itself in the skin and body hair.” Chinese Folk Medicine

Thursday
Kidney/ Bladder – Winter, element of water
“(In winter) people should retire early at night and rise late in the morning and they should wait for the rising of the sun.” Nei Ching

Friday
Integration & bringing it home

 

Brahmani Liebman MSEd ERYT  is co- creator of Journey Into Yoga Teacher Training RYS and retreats as well as the CD Journey Into Yoga: Awakening the Spirit. On faculty of the Kripalu Yoga School of Yoga, she brings over 40 years of studies and experience teaching classes, training teachers, and leading worldwide teacher trainings and retreats.  Strongly influenced by her studies in Yoga, meditation, Buddhism, the integrative healing arts and where they intersect informs her life & teaching as she invites her students to use these wisdom traditions to live their true, authentic life.  Believing in people’s ability to access healing and inner knowing, Brahmani offers tangible and sustainable ways to live a spiritual life.

www.journeyintoyoga.com

YouTube: Brahmani Liebman @The BrahmYoga

Mental Strength Training with Alex Freuman

We all know that play is an essential mechanism for cognitive development in young children, but few of us recognize how essential playing is to our brain into adulthood and especially as we age!  Games and problem-solving activate new and different neural pathways that help maintain cognitive function throughout our lives. Chess coach and puzzle enthusiast Alex Freuman brings an array of fun activities to give your brain as much of a workout this week as your body is getting … don’t miss this chance to stretch your mind after a satisfying day of physical exertion!

Social Chess
Join Alex and your fellow chess enthusiasts nightly from Sunday through Wednesday at 7pm for social chess games. Play social chess games with others, or participate in informal chess lessons if you’d like to learn!

Escape Room! (60 minutes)
If problem solving, puzzle decoding and relying on your wits to get out of sticky situations are skills in your wheelhouse, then come team up with your fellow Ranchers to collaboratively try to  solve an Escape Room challenge!  In this team activity, your group will put your heads together to race against the clock and escape the room before time runs out!

Juggling
Juggling is a great way to build ‘muscle memory’ and practice the type of coordination that works out your brain… and it’s a fabulous party trick to liven up a gathering and impress your family and friends!  Join Alex to learn the basics of 3 ball juggling; those with basic knowledge of juggling will learn more advanced skills.  After you start to learn the basics, you can practice all week with special juggling balls and bring home a new skill from your week at the Ranch!


Alex Freuman, MS, BA, is a high school STEM teacher who holds a BA in mathematics from Oberlin College and an MS in mathematics education from Hunter College in New York City.   At Oberlin, Alex was a founding member of the Juggling Club, where he honed many circus skills, including fire juggling, fire eating and balancing tricks. Also, a long-time chess and puzzle enthusiast, Alex coaches the chess team at Nyack Highschool (Nyack, NY), is faculty advisor for the Nyack Highschool Puzzle Club, is the founder and President of the Rockland County Chess Club, and is a certified US Chess Tournament Director.  His current United States Chess Federation (UCSF) rating is 1900, and he hopes to break 2000 before his children beat him to it. Alex is passionate about creating community and fostering multi-generational connections through the joy of chess.

Food For Thought with Tamara Duker Freuman

In this series of talks and activities, we’ll examine a variety of eating and lifestyle patterns associated with robust metabolic and cognitive function as we age, and explore the role of the “second brain” (the gut) as a key mediator for these relationships. You’ll leave with practical ideas about how to adjust what you eat—and when you eat it—to optimize brain and gut health.  We’ll also keep our neural pathways from getting rusty by engaging all of our senses in some fun food play!

Nutrition for Cognition
There is increasing evidence to support the role of specific dietary patterns that help improve cognitive function and prevent (or slow) age-related cognitive decline. In this session, we’ll review the latest science on the Mediterranean diet, the MIND diet, specific dietary supplements as well as the new “US POINTER” intensive diet and lifestyle protocol for prevention of cognitive decline. You will emerge with specific and actionable recommendations for lifestyle choices you can make at any age to support robust cognitive function for the long haul.

Understanding the Gut-Brain Axis
Gut health is on everyone’s mind these days, as the linkages between the composition of our gut microbiome and our overall health are increasingly revealed. As research unveils a clearer connection between digestive health, cognitive function and the risk of neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, we can start to unpack the mechanisms by which this connection takes place. In this session, we’ll dive into the science behind how our gut microbiome communicates with the brain; how the brain communicates back to the gut; and the connection between the composition of the microbiome, digestive health/symptoms and neurological health and functioning.

Eating for Longevity
We can gain a lot of insight into what an ideal dietary pattern looks like from the longest-living populations in the world—the centenarians of the world’s so-called “Blue Zones,”  and examining their diet and lifestyle patterns can help answer the burning question of “What should I eat?”  (Hint: there are many different versions of longevity-promoting diets, but they all have some common characteristics.)  Diving deeper into the habits of the world’s longest living people, we’ll also touch on the role of circadian rhythms—or the “body clock”—in promoting metabolic health and longevity. You’ll leave with answers to all your questions about both what to eat—and when to eat it—to help achieve the ultimate prize of a long and healthy life!

Sensory “Circuit Training” Competition: Local Foods of Mexico!
Flex those neural pathways by engaging all of your senses through delicious play! If you love Mexican foods and flavors; fancy yourself a ‘super smeller or taster’; or just love a little bit of friendly competition, then put your senses to the test as you sniff, taste and touch a variety of local foods while blindfolded, and compete your fellow Ranchers to identify as many of them as possible! Your familiarity with the local feel, flavors and scents of Mexico will come in handy, as will your love of adventurous eating! (Note: the event will be allergen-free.  Please inform instructor of any food allergies prior to starting so that your tasting circuit can be adjusted.)

 

Tamara Duker Freuman, MS, RDN, CDN is a New York-based registered dietitian, author and America’s Trusted Digestive Nutrition Expert. A nationally-known authority on nutrition therapy for digestive diseases, Tamara is a member of New York Gastroenterology Associates, a private Manhattan-based practice. She earned a Master of Science degree in Clinical Nutrition from New York University and completed her training at Mount Sinai Medical Center. In addition to her clinical work, Tamara is a high-profile nutrition writer whose advice on healthy living and dietary management of digestive disease is read by hundreds of thousands of people each month via leading online media platforms. She has been featured in leading TV, print and radio/podcast media, including TV’s Good Morning America, Live with Kelly & Ryan, Inside Edition, National Public Radio, The Washington Post, Reader’s Digest, Prevention, Women’s Health, The Huffington Post, CNN.com, SELF.com, and Business Insider. She is the author of the acclaimed book, The Bloated Belly Whisperer(St. Martin’s Press, 2018).

Sound Healing with Buddy Macuha

Balancing Your Chakras Through Sound with Buddy
Immerse yourself in a sound bath experience to balance your chakras. The chakras are seven energy points located along the spine that relate to different aspects of our physical and mental well-being. When strong, we feel healthier and alert. When they aren’t, we may feel “off”, and discomfort may develop in or around the surrounding area. The vibrations will help clear and align the chakras, improve energy flow, and will help strengthen each point on the body while improving our well-being!

Floating Sounds of Peace and Serenity with Buddy
Float on a raft into another dimension as sounds and vibrations combine to move you through all your senses. The rhythmic sounds of the bowls will make you feel like you’re drifting away on clouds. Your healing begins with one breath and your transformation continues as each note fills your awareness. The balance of your conscious and unconscious dance as each one moves seamlessly into each. It’s time for your peace and serenity to begin!

Reset, Release, and Restore Sound Meditation with Buddy
The powerful effects of sound meditation are amplified with the numbers 3, 6, and 9. When done in this sequence, our mind and body connect more deeply to the universe and to the cosmic energy it provides. 3 symbolizes our connection to the universe and our creative energy. 6 represents our inner strength and resilience while 9 signifies our inner rebirth and letting go of what no longer serves us. After this class, you’ll feel transformed and connected in a powerful way.

Sounds of Space and Renewal with Buddy
Sound meditation offers us space to heal and connect with ourselves. As the sounds flow through our body, we transcend to another plane of consciousness and the healing power of the mind and body are activated.  This powerful connection is where understanding, clarity, and self-love begin. Come experience a sound meditation unlike anything else you’ve done before!

 

Meet Buddy Macuha, the ultimate movement wizard! With more than 30 years of experience under his belt, he’s a pro at everything from yoga to HIIT classes. Based in the sunny city of Los Angeles, Buddy wears many hats: he’s a life coach who inspires folks to chase their dreams, a pickleball guru spreading joy and skills on the court, and a sound healer who uses his special empathic powers to help others find their zen. He’s excited to be back at Rancho la Puerta sharing all of his passions with the guests!

Feldenkrais with Georgia Freedman Junker

Georgia Freedman Junker discovered the Feldenkrais Method of Somatic Education through her own journey of healing from chronic pain. This transformative experience —and the refinement of her movement patterns and self-awareness — inspired her to become a Guild Certified Feldenkrais Practitioner. She is especially drawn to the Method’s potential for rehabilitation, injury prevention, healing from trauma and nervous system regulation.

Georgia is passionate about how movement and mindful awareness can enhance one’s physical and emotional connection to one’s self in daily life. Her practice draws from work with a wide range of individuals, including athletes, dancers, seniors, people with chronic pain, creatives and teenagers. This diversity continually informs her understanding of how to help people move with greater ease, clarity, and confidence.

With a background in biology, visual art, wilderness exploration, and motherhood, Georgia brings a richly informed perspective to her work—one rooted in curiosity, adaptability, and whole-person wellbeing.

Since 2014, Georgia has maintained a thriving private practice in Silver Lake, Los Angeles, where she offers one-on-one manual therapy sessions and teaches group Awareness Through Movement classes. Throughout the years, Georgia has taught Feldenkrais workshops with themes that include an Introduction the Feldenkrais Method, Reducing Facial/Jaw Tension, Easing Back Pain, Hip Mobility, Balance/Proprioception and Healthy Feet.

Her work is grounded in the belief that learning to move better can lead to living more fully—and she is committed to helping others feel better, move with resilience, and stay curious along the way.

www.geofeldi.com

georgia@geofeldi.com

Iyengar Yoga: Align & Awaken with Kitty Franklin

Discover the power of precision, balance, and mindful movement through Iyengar Yoga—one of the most accessible and therapeutic styles of yoga in the world. This six-day series introduces foundational postures, breathing awareness, and the intelligent use of props to cultivate strength, stability, and inner calm.

Rooted in the teachings of B.K.S. Iyengar, a pioneering yogi who revolutionized modern yoga with his emphasis on alignment and accessibility, each class builds progressively to help you feel more at ease in your body and more focused in your mind. Whether you’re new to yoga or exploring a deeper sense of embodiment, this series offers a supportive path into the art of conscious living—one steady breath and posture at a time.

Su, M, T, W, Th, F 11 AM – Noon

Day 1 – Foundations of Iyengar Yoga
Building from the ground up, this class introduces the use of props, basic standing poses like Tadasana and Virabhadrasana II, and the concept of alignment through the legs and spine. Expect a strong, supportive foundation.

Day 2 – Awakening the Spine
Explore gentle movements that extend and energize the spine. Learn to use blocks and blankets to safely experience poses like Salamba Bhujangasana and Setu Bandha on support.

Day 3 – Stability in Movement
Develop focus through balancing postures and simple breath awareness. Introduces Vrksasana (Tree Pose) and Utkatasana, along with supine savasana to soften the nervous system.

Day 4 – Opening the Hips, Freeing the Mind
Learn classic seated poses using props to release the hips and hamstrings. This class gently prepares the body for comfortable seated meditation or pranayama in the future.

Day 5 – Shoulders, Chest, and Calm
Delve into supported chest openers and gentle inversions (like legs-up-the-wall) to release tension and elevate mood. Intro to props like the bolster, belt, and chair.

Day 6 – Integration and Stillness
A quiet, grounding class that weaves elements from the week into a balanced flow. Ends with a guided savasana and a simple intro to restorative postures.

 

Kitty Franklin, a Certified Iyengar Yoga Teacher since 2004 and lifelong practitioner, conducts classes at all levels at the BKS Iyengar Yoga Center of San Diego. Her instruction is characterized by precise guidance and careful observation, with a focus on enabling students to benefit from their yoga practice regardless of age, flexibility, or experience. Ms. Franklin views yoga as a tool for personal development while promoting inner peace and harmony with all living beings.

Mindfulness for All Ages with River Morgan

Meditation for Everyone: It’s Not What You Think

Meditation For Everybody: It’s Not What You “Think”

Have you been curious about meditation?  Do you want to learn techniques to develop a manageable home practice?  Are you a long-time practitioner seeking to deepen your practice? Over the course of your week at The Ranch, you will gather tools to sustain your meditation practice. The course will demystify the experience of meditation, allowing you to integrate mindfulness into your daily life.

Studies show:

  • Meditation trains and balances the mind.
  • Meditation fosters relaxation and stress management.
  • Meditation is proven to be incredible for your health; it increases the immune system, lowers blood pressure, lowers stress hormone levels in the body, increases cardiovascular health and calms anxiety and depression.

 

River Morgan is a third generation yoga and meditation instructor, who resides in Aspen, Colorado. A lifelong study of movement and the body has guided her over 19 years of teaching. River has been featured in many publications for her yoga classes and retreats, including Yoga Journal, Forbes magazine, Elephant Journal, Aspen Peak Magazine and as a model for the Gaiam and Jade Catalogues and products. She authored a wellness column for The Aspen Daily News and her classes are featured on Depak Chopra’s Jiyo app as well as Golf Forever, Healthy Backs Forever, Aspen82, and The Healthy Life channel.

She is a certified yoga, meditation & Gyrotonic instructor and teacher-trainer. She holds a BFA in Dance & toured internationally with two professional dance companies. River has also served as assistant director of TheFarmCollabortive.org for the past 16 years.

Art Workshops with Jessica Colvin

  • Embossing Your Own Set of Stationery
  • Decoupaging Coasters, Frames and Journals

Jessica Colvin, MSW, MPH is a national leader in the school wellness movement, with over 25 years of experience supporting the health and well-being of youth. As the founder of SWELL – Schools Well, she has helped design and launch more than 90 school-based Wellness Centers across California and beyond, creating spaces grounded in student voice, wellness, and belonging.  Within this work, Jessica has developed the Wellness Toolbox – a framework that invites youth and adults alike to recognize and name their emotions (“name it to tame it”) and build personalized tools for coping, emotional regulation, and self-care. Some of these tools include mindfulness, movement, and connection – and for Jessica, one of her most meaningful wellness tools has always been art.  When she’s not working with schools, Jessica can often be found teaching arts & crafts workshops – a passion she’s pursued for over 30 years, blending creativity, mindfulness, expression, and play. She believes art isn’t just a hobby, but a meaningful way to support emotional well-being and reconnect with joy – regardless of experience level.

Join Jessica at The Ranch to explore and expand your own Wellness Toolbox through hands-on artmaking, where creativity, reflection, and connection are all part of the process.

Maximizing Health When Your Estrogen Tank Is On Empty with Lauren Streicher

What’s Up Down There? Genital Dryness & Misbehaving Bladders
Women are frequently blindsided by not only the physical changes that occur with the onset of menopause but also the dryness, pain, itching, recurrent urinary tract infections, and constant “gotta go” feeling.

Dr. Streicher Talks About Orgasm: Everybody Welcome
Difficulty with orgasm is the second most common sexual issue and is experienced by over 50% of post menopause women. This solution driven talk is all about getting your clitoral nerve endings to wake up!

Can Cannabis Help Your Hot Flashes and Safely Get You to Sleep?
1 of 4 women use cannabis to help with hot flashes, and insomnia. But how you consume cannabis determines if it will help or harm.

Q&A with Dr. Streicher
Bring your questions.

 

Lauren Streicher, MD, is a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, and the founding medical director of the Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause. She is a Certified Menopause Practitioner of The Menopause Society, serves on the Editorial Board of the journal Menopause, and is a Senior Research Fellow for the Kinsey Institute, Indiana University. She is the best-selling author of multiple books including The Essential Guide to Hysterectomy,  Sex Rx- Hormones, Health, and Your Best Sex Ever, Slip Sliding Away: Turning Back the Clock on Your Vagina and Hot Flash Hell: A Gynecologist’s Guide to Turning Down the Heat .  Dr. Streicher is the host of two podcasts. Inside Information: Mid-life Menopause and More, and COME AGAIN: Sexuality and Orgasm. She is routinely interviewed as a reliable, accurate source for national publications such as The New York Times, Newsweek, the Associated Press, and dozens of magazines. She writes regularly for Prevention magazine and The Ethel from AARP.

Master Your Metabolism with DeRahn Johnson

Master Your Metabolism 

If you want to be a fat-burning machine, feel confident and in control of your body, eliminate the frustration and struggle of dieting, and create the body you desire and deserve, this seminar is where it all begins. “Master Your Metabolism” takes you on an in-depth journey into the inner workings of your body. Knowledge is power, and after this seminar, you will be empowered with tools and resources you can use immediately to take charge of your health and create your greatest self.

During this transformative experience, you’ll uncover:
• The secrets to achieving lasting weight loss
• The true meaning of “fast” vs. “slow” metabolism
• How to harness the power of muscle to ignite fat burning
• How to measure your unique “metabolic fingerprint” bring precision with Metabolism Testing
• Simple strategies to design a winning nutrition plan Join us and take a massive step towards a healthier, more empowered you!

 

DeRahn Johnson is a Nutrition Specialist, health coach, and published author based in San Diego, California. He is the owner of Maven Precision Nutrition, a San Diego company that designs custom meal plans tailored to each individual’s unique metabolism. Before entering the health and wellness industry, DeRahn spent 13 years as a software engineer. Throughout his career, he learned the importance of using scientific principles, leading research, accurate measurement, and data analysis to create meaningful and lasting change. But what truly stood out to him was how difficult it was for his colleagues to stay healthy. Motivated to make a real difference, he decided to leave his successful and lucrative software career to dedicate his life to helping others unlock their full, healthiest potential. After leaving engineering, he embarked on a journey through diverse roles in the fitness world, such as personal training, gym management, corrective exercise, and group fitness. Amidst these experiences, one thing became crystal clear: no matter the role, everyone struggled to better understand and manage their nutrition. This common challenge fueled his passion to make a difference. Motivated by this exciting new mission, DeRahn unveiled “The Maven Method” — a revolutionary, three-step process designed to craft a truly personalized approach to weight management. At its heart is Metabolic Testing, a cutting-edge scientific technique where a simple 10-minute breathing analysis can accurately reveal how many calories you burn each day. Say goodbye to guesswork—now, you can know exactly what your body needs to reach your goals. The success of The Maven Method has allowed DeRahn to operate a successful nutrition practice in San Diego, become a published author, conduct lectures and seminars across the country, and meet many fascinating people along the way. DeRahn combines his technical skills and passion at Rancho La Puerta, where he aims to empower the 40+ community to thrive and achieve lasting health and wellness.