Events Archive - Page 18 of 60 - Rancho La Puerta
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Food as Medicine

Food as Medicine
If food is medicine, can it truly replace pharmaceutical medications? Jill will take you on a tour of current dietary trends, discussing what works and what doesn’t work, and why a plan needs to be individualized. She will review label reading, choosing the “best for you” foods, behavior change and more, in this lively lighthearted look at a serious subject. You will learn tips and tricks on how to fuel your body in the most positive way.

Superfoods and Supplements: What Do You Really Need?
Which are truly “superfoods” and why? We seem to have become a nation of people who take many supplements. Which ones might be good for you? How to tell? And why take them? In this session Jill Nussinow will discuss what you need to know to give your food a boost.

Nutrition for Best Brain Health and Good Sleep
Do you know that more people are concerned about their brain health, than any other part of their body? With real life and anecdotal reports on the increasing incidence of Alzheimer’s and other dementia, this makes sense as around 6 million people in the US have the disease. According to the Alzheimer’s Association: “The number of people living with the disease doubles every 5 years beyond age 65.” Come learn the role of nutrition on brain health. Good sleep is part of the equation and Jill will discuss some ways to help you get good nightly sleep and what that looks like. These are important topics for our time. Both brain and body will appreciate it.

Your Gut, Your Health: Probiotics and Beyond
Come learn about the role that a “healthy and happy” gut plays in your overall health from head to toe, and everywhere in between. Jill will discuss prebiotics, probiotics and steps you can take to maintain good gut health, immunity and more.

 

Jill Nussinow is a culinary educator, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and the author of four cookbooks. Her award-winning cookbooks feature plant-based recipes and include The Veggie Queen: Vegetables Get the Royal Treatment, The New Fast Food, Nutrition CHAMPS and her most recent, and most loved by the public book: Vegan Under Pressure. Jill is a pressure cooking (think Instant Pot), vegetable, fermentation and mushroom expert.  She has been helping people achieve better health through teaching them about improved nutrition through food. Jill has been teaching people about plants and how to cook with them for the past 30 years. She is an adjunct culinary instructor at Santa Rosa Junior College, teaches for the McDougall program and is a frequent cooking teacher and guest nutrition lecturer at Rancho La Puerta. Nothing makes Jill happier than teaching people how to cook and eat well and sharing her thoughts and health philosophy. She believes that her success stems from her passion and love of good health and how she infuses love into everything that she does.

Refresh and Renew with Sound

What is sound healing?
Each sound healing is created to help clear energetic block­ages, neu­tral­iz­e ten­sion and increas­e the vitality of the human body. Each session embraces sound as a tech­nol­ogy to help activate and direct the natural energy that resides in everyone. When your true inner vibrations are spinning in harmony with the outer cosmic energy then your whole being comes into balance.

‘DJ’ will be bringing a collection of instruments including planetary gongs, singing bowls, flutes, chimes, drums and more. He will be facilitating daily gong sound healing experiences that will include many sound healing techniques used to reduce stress in the body and revitalize the body to feel refreshed and balanced.

 

Gary ‘Dhyanjot’ Grenus aka ‘DJ’ is a Gong Master Sound Healer, E-RYT500 Certified Lead Trainer at the Integrated School of Yoga and Sound Healing in San Diego, and author of the “11 Day Evolution Cleanse and Detox” Program. DJ is a graduate from TCU, School of Healing Arts, and five different yoga teacher training programs. He has been practicing and teaching various yoga styles and techniques since 1999.  DJ has a private practice in San Diego where he facilitates yoga teacher/sound healing trainings, gong Immersions/sound healings, ‘Mastering Self’ life coaching, and a quarterly yoga cleanse and detox program. Each of his programs helps people manage stress, fatigue, hypertension, trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, inflexibility, indigestion, and weight.

 

Refresh and Renew with Sound

What is sound healing?
Each sound healing is created to help clear energetic block­ages, neu­tral­iz­e ten­sion and increas­e the vitality of the human body. Each session embraces sound as a tech­nol­ogy to help activate and direct the natural energy that resides in everyone. When your true inner vibrations are spinning in harmony with the outer cosmic energy then your whole being comes into balance.

‘DJ’ will be bringing a collection of instruments including planetary gongs, singing bowls, flutes, chimes, drums and more. He will be facilitating daily gong sound healing experiences that will include many sound healing techniques used to reduce stress in the body and revitalize the body to feel refreshed and balanced.

 

Gary ‘Dhyanjot’ Grenus aka ‘DJ’ is a Gong Master Sound Healer, E-RYT500 Certified Lead Trainer at the Integrated School of Yoga and Sound Healing in San Diego, and author of the “11 Day Evolution Cleanse and Detox” Program. DJ is a graduate from TCU, School of Healing Arts, and five different yoga teacher training programs. He has been practicing and teaching various yoga styles and techniques since 1999.  DJ has a private practice in San Diego where he facilitates yoga teacher/sound healing trainings, gong Immersions/sound healings, ‘Mastering Self’ life coaching, and a quarterly yoga cleanse and detox program. Each of his programs helps people manage stress, fatigue, hypertension, trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, inflexibility, indigestion, and weight.

 

Yoga with Larry Payne

Larry Payne, Ph.D.,C-IAYT, E-RYT500,YTRX-1000, is an internationally respected Yoga teacher, author, and a founding father of Yoga therapy in America. Dr. Payne cofounded the International Association of Yoga Therapists, now in 50 countries, and the Yoga curriculum at the UCLA School of Medicine. He is also co-founder of the Yoga Therapy Rx and Prime of Life Yoga programs at Loyola Marymount University, the corporate Yoga program at the J. Paul Getty Museum, and the original “Back Program” at Rancho La Puerta. In 2000, he was the first Yoga teacher to be invited to The World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, and in 1996, he performed the first documented headstand at the North Pole! He founded Samata International Yoga and Health Center in Los Angeles 1980, where he continues to teach groups and individuals. Dr. Payne is coauthor of the international bestseller Yoga for Dummies (Wiley), Yoga Basics (Wiley), Yoga Rx (Random House), The Business of Teaching Yoga (Samata International), and Yoga Therapy and Integrative Medicine (Turner). He is featured in the Prime of Life Yoga and Yoga Therapy Rx DVD series and globally online at Yoga International. Most recently, he is author of AARP’s Yoga after 50 for Dummies (Wiley). His website is Samata.com.

Yoga with Larry Payne

Larry Payne, Ph.D.,C-IAYT, E-RYT500,YTRX-1000, is an internationally respected Yoga teacher, author, and a founding father of Yoga therapy in America. Dr. Payne cofounded the International Association of Yoga Therapists, now in 50 countries, and the Yoga curriculum at the UCLA School of Medicine. He is also co-founder of the Yoga Therapy Rx and Prime of Life Yoga programs at Loyola Marymount University, the corporate Yoga program at the J. Paul Getty Museum, and the original “Back Program” at Rancho La Puerta. In 2000, he was the first Yoga teacher to be invited to The World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, and in 1996, he performed the first documented headstand at the North Pole! He founded Samata International Yoga and Health Center in Los Angeles 1980, where he continues to teach groups and individuals. Dr. Payne is coauthor of the international bestseller Yoga for Dummies (Wiley), Yoga Basics (Wiley), Yoga Rx (Random House), The Business of Teaching Yoga (Samata International), and Yoga Therapy and Integrative Medicine (Turner). He is featured in the Prime of Life Yoga and Yoga Therapy Rx DVD series and globally online at Yoga International. Most recently, he is author of AARP’s Yoga after 50 for Dummies (Wiley). His website is Samata.com.

Yoga with Larry Payne

Larry Payne, Ph.D.,C-IAYT, E-RYT500,YTRX-1000, is an internationally respected Yoga teacher, author, and a founding father of Yoga therapy in America. Dr. Payne cofounded the International Association of Yoga Therapists, now in 50 countries, and the Yoga curriculum at the UCLA School of Medicine. He is also co-founder of the Yoga Therapy Rx and Prime of Life Yoga programs at Loyola Marymount University, the corporate Yoga program at the J. Paul Getty Museum, and the original “Back Program” at Rancho La Puerta. In 2000, he was the first Yoga teacher to be invited to The World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, and in 1996, he performed the first documented headstand at the North Pole! He founded Samata International Yoga and Health Center in Los Angeles 1980, where he continues to teach groups and individuals. Dr. Payne is coauthor of the international bestseller Yoga for Dummies (Wiley), Yoga Basics (Wiley), Yoga Rx (Random House), The Business of Teaching Yoga (Samata International), and Yoga Therapy and Integrative Medicine (Turner). He is featured in the Prime of Life Yoga and Yoga Therapy Rx DVD series and globally online at Yoga International. Most recently, he is author of AARP’s Yoga after 50 for Dummies (Wiley). His website is Samata.com.

Dance with Anna Matuszewski

Join us for a dance class that’s not just about movement but also about self-discovery, confidence, and building lasting friendships. Step into our vibrant and welcoming space, where we celebrate dance in all its forms. Are you ready to make unforgettable memories on the dance floor? Come dance with us!

Join Our Inclusive Dance Class: Embrace Movement, Unleash Your Creativity!

Are you ready to groove, express yourself, and have a blast on the dance floor? Look no further! Our dance class is a safe haven for dancers of all ages and abilities, where the focus is on nurturing a supportive and encouraging learning environment.

What to Expect:
Diverse Styles: Explore the world of dance through a variety of styles, from hip hop to funk, allowing you to discover your own unique dance persona.

Foundational Techniques: Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer, we’ll build strong foundations that will take your skills to new heights.

Choreography and Movement: Unleash your creativity as we delve into the art of choreography and free movement. This class is all about discovering and expressing your true dance spirit.

Stretch and Flexibility: Enhance your dance abilities with a focus on stretching and flexibility. We believe that every body is capable of growth and progress.

Footwork and Turns: Learn intricate footwork and master those dazzling turns that will leave you spinning with joy.

Small Combinations: Delve into the excitement of combining dance steps to create beautiful and captivating sequences. Challenge yourself and grow as a dancer.

Why Choose Our Class:
All Ages and Abilities Welcome: No matter your age or dance experience, we welcome everyone with open arms. Our class is a melting pot of diverse talents, and we celebrate the uniqueness each dancer brings.

Learn Something New Each Class: Get ready for an adventure! In each session, we’ll introduce fresh and exciting material, ensuring that you’re continuously growing and expanding your dance repertoire.

Non-Competitive Environment: This class is about self-expression and personal growth, not competition. Embrace your journey as a dancer without the pressure to compare yourself to others.

Have Fun, Feel the Rhythm: Dance is an expression of joy, and that’s exactly what we aim to provide! Expect smiles, laughter, and a supportive community to dance alongside you.

No prior dance experience required—just an open heart and a passion for movement.

 

Meet Anna Matuszewski, a trailblazing force in the world of dance and choreography. For an impressive 14 years, Anna has graced the stage as the resident choreographer and lead dancer for the renowned Macklemore and Ryan Lewis. Her artistic genius has shone brightly, shaping breathtaking performances for world tours, national and international TV appearances, music videos, and commercials.

For Anna, it’s not just about the movements, but the profound connection that dance fosters. Her choreography acts as a vessel for self-expression, self-acceptance, and a heightened awareness of the body and its limitless capabilities. Through the universal language of movement and music, she weaves together a tapestry of unity and empowerment.

In the realm of dance, Anna Matuszewski is a luminous guiding star—a beacon of creativity, love, and artistic expression that continues to ignite hearts around the globe.

“At the Ranch, worries fade like distant echoes and the universe reveals its secrets, guiding you towards a radiant inner glow.” -Anna

Dance with Anna Matuszewski

Join us for a dance class that’s not just about movement but also about self-discovery, confidence, and building lasting friendships. Step into our vibrant and welcoming space, where we celebrate dance in all its forms. Are you ready to make unforgettable memories on the dance floor? Come dance with us!

Join Our Inclusive Dance Class: Embrace Movement, Unleash Your Creativity!

Are you ready to groove, express yourself, and have a blast on the dance floor? Look no further! Our dance class is a safe haven for dancers of all ages and abilities, where the focus is on nurturing a supportive and encouraging learning environment.

What to Expect:
Diverse Styles: Explore the world of dance through a variety of styles, from hip hop to funk, allowing you to discover your own unique dance persona.

Foundational Techniques: Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer, we’ll build strong foundations that will take your skills to new heights.

Choreography and Movement: Unleash your creativity as we delve into the art of choreography and free movement. This class is all about discovering and expressing your true dance spirit.

Stretch and Flexibility: Enhance your dance abilities with a focus on stretching and flexibility. We believe that every body is capable of growth and progress.

Footwork and Turns: Learn intricate footwork and master those dazzling turns that will leave you spinning with joy.

Small Combinations: Delve into the excitement of combining dance steps to create beautiful and captivating sequences. Challenge yourself and grow as a dancer.

Why Choose Our Class:
All Ages and Abilities Welcome: No matter your age or dance experience, we welcome everyone with open arms. Our class is a melting pot of diverse talents, and we celebrate the uniqueness each dancer brings.

Learn Something New Each Class: Get ready for an adventure! In each session, we’ll introduce fresh and exciting material, ensuring that you’re continuously growing and expanding your dance repertoire.

Non-Competitive Environment: This class is about self-expression and personal growth, not competition. Embrace your journey as a dancer without the pressure to compare yourself to others.

Have Fun, Feel the Rhythm: Dance is an expression of joy, and that’s exactly what we aim to provide! Expect smiles, laughter, and a supportive community to dance alongside you.

No prior dance experience required—just an open heart and a passion for movement.

 

Meet Anna Matuszewski, a trailblazing force in the world of dance and choreography. For an impressive 14 years, Anna has graced the stage as the resident choreographer and lead dancer for the renowned Macklemore and Ryan Lewis. Her artistic genius has shone brightly, shaping breathtaking performances for world tours, national and international TV appearances, music videos, and commercials.

For Anna, it’s not just about the movements, but the profound connection that dance fosters. Her choreography acts as a vessel for self-expression, self-acceptance, and a heightened awareness of the body and its limitless capabilities. Through the universal language of movement and music, she weaves together a tapestry of unity and empowerment.

In the realm of dance, Anna Matuszewski is a luminous guiding star—a beacon of creativity, love, and artistic expression that continues to ignite hearts around the globe.

“At the Ranch, worries fade like distant echoes and the universe reveals its secrets, guiding you towards a radiant inner glow.” -Anna

Trail Running with Donnie and Tom Flahavan

Sunday: 6:10 am Morning trail run
10:00 am Running form clinic

Monday: 6:10 am Morning trail run

Tuesday: 6:10 am Morning trail run
10:00 am Uphill and Downhill skills

Wednesday: 6:30 am Morning trail run to organic breakfast (sign up)

Thursday: 6:10 am Morning trail run
10:00 am Uphill and Downhill transitions Alex Oak

 

Tom and Donnie FlahavanDonnie and Tom Flahavan have been running, competing, and coaching for over 35 years. They have introduced hundreds of people of various levels to running at the ranch. Their coaching style is fun and educational.

This week you will learn basic running form, uphill and downhill skills, and hiking transitions along with tips on safety, gear, and how to take it all home to enhance your workout routine. The classes are designed for all levels whether you are a beginner or an advanced runner.  There is a morning run option that will precede the same hike routes. We will be hiking most of the uphill as we do not run the entire mountain.  If you want to learn how to become a better power hiker this could be a great opportunity on the trails. Demo trail running shoes will be available in various sizes prior to each class.

“It always seems impossible until it’s done”. – Donnie Flahavan
“If you say to yourself ‘I am a runner” you become one”. – Nelson Mandela

 

Trail Running with Donnie and Tom Flahavan

Sunday: 6:10 am Morning trail run
10:00 am Running form clinic

Monday: 6:10 am Morning trail run

Tuesday: 6:10 am Morning trail run
10:00 am Uphill and Downhill skills

Wednesday: 6:30 am Morning trail run to organic breakfast (sign up)

Thursday: 6:10 am Morning trail run
10:00 am Uphill and Downhill transitions Alex Oak

 

Tom and Donnie FlahavanDonnie and Tom Flahavan have been running, competing, and coaching for over 35 years. They have introduced hundreds of people of various levels to running at the ranch. Their coaching style is fun and educational.

This week you will learn basic running form, uphill and downhill skills, and hiking transitions along with tips on safety, gear, and how to take it all home to enhance your workout routine. The classes are designed for all levels whether you are a beginner or an advanced runner.  There is a morning run option that will precede the same hike routes. We will be hiking most of the uphill as we do not run the entire mountain.  If you want to learn how to become a better power hiker this could be a great opportunity on the trails. Demo trail running shoes will be available in various sizes prior to each class.

“It always seems impossible until it’s done”. – Donnie Flahavan
“If you say to yourself ‘I am a runner” you become one”. – Nelson Mandela

 

Myofascial Release, Centering Alignment & Corrective Exercise Connection

For decades there has been an epidemic rise in the number of people suffering from common musculoskeletal imbalances that are not caused by an injury. These imbalances are caused by other factors, such as movement dysfunction, activity choices, prolonged static postures, footwear choices, surgeries and sedentary lifestyles. Many with common musculoskeletal imbalances do not need physical therapy, whereby corrective exercise is evolving to fill the gap in care. The use of musculoskeletal assessments, self-myofascial release, restorative stretching, and corrective strengthening exercises in health and fitness settings is fast becoming commonplace to help remedy and relieve muscle & joint discomfort and pain.

As a Corrective Exercise Specialist Laura’s skill set is focused on addressing the body as a whole and identifying underlying causes of chronic pain not just the symptoms and help prevent the body from breaking down in the future. A sequenced method of structural assessments, myofascial release techniques, stretching, body centering and corrective exercises are applied. The benefits of this training can result in not only the elimination of pain, but lead to a reduction in stress and improvement in active performance and functional daily living.

Beginning on Sunday and throughout the week each class will incorporate movement and usable information. We will focus on different zones of the body using several of the techniques mentioned above in order to give participants more structural awareness, pain alleviating “hacks”, and corrective exercises to be able to easily replicate at home. Friday’s class will wrap everything up, ending your week with an energized feeling, full of vitality – moving more functionally and feeling GREAT!

 

Myofascial Release, Centering Alignment & Corrective Exercise Connection
Laura S Gideon M.S, CPT, CES
www.bamboobalance.com

Opening the week with a Brief intro & explanation of Fascia dehydration (causes of discomfort/pain) -therapeutic exercises to help alleviate discomfort. Followed by – The importance of centered posture and corrective exercise and its connection …. (Kinetic connection -the chain of movement starting at the bottom and moving up)

Sunday 9/15 – Focus is on:
Feet, Ankles, Calves, Shins

Monday 9/16 – Focus is on:
Knees, Thighs (Quads & Hams), Hips (Ad & Ab-ductors), IT band

Tuesday 9/17- Focus is on:
Pelvis, Hip Flexors (psoas), Glutes, Low Back (QL), Abs

Wednesday 9/18- Focus is on:
Mid back, Shoulders, Chest, Ribcage

Thursday 9/19- Focus is on:
Neck, Head, Arms, Hands

Friday 9/20- Focus is on:
Full Body (putting it all together), Overall Restoration, Fascia in Motion mvmt

Centering Alignment and “Proper” Posture of the Body 101
Posture muscles help to fix or stabilize a joint; they prevent movement, while other muscles create movement. They are composed of muscle fibers that have a particular capacity for prolonged work. For instance, as a person leans forward slightly to walk up a flight of stairs (the movement), the posture muscles surrounding the spine help to prevent the upper body from falling too far forward (they help keep the body upright).

There are three natural curves in a healthy vertebral spine. The low back (lumbar spine) curves inward (toward the anterior part of the body) and is referred to as a lordotic curve. The middle back (thoracic spine) is curved outward (posterior to the body) referred to as a Kyphotic curve. The neck (cervical spine) curves slightly forward and thus have a lordotic curve.

The term “Neutral Spine” usually refers to the lumbar region. Neutral spine is a pain-free position of the lumbar spine attained when the pressures in and around the pelvis joint structures are evenly distributed. The pelvis is balanced between its anterior and posterior positions.

Good posture—when you are standing:
Is the straight vertical alignment of your body from the top of your head, through your body’s center, to the bottom of your feet. The feet should be relaxed with the body’s weight resting on three points: the heel, the base of the big toe, and the little toe.

There are five principles of posture and movement that outline the ways our bodies work:
Posture Principle 1 – Movement. Your body is designed to move and stay moving. …
Posture Principle 2 – Balance. …
Posture Principle 3 – Movement Patterns. …
Posture Principle 4 – Compensation. …
Posture Principle 5 – Adaptation.

Fascia Loves
1. Hydration (think a sponge)
2. Movement (think water transportation)
3. Touch (think floorwork, massage, soft foam rollers)
4. Slow Stretch (think cats)
5. Bouncing (think jumping, dancing, running)

Fascia Hates
1. Static positions (sitting, slouching)
2. Repetitions (one-sided work or workouts)
3. Too quick stretches (it’s slower than muscles)
4. Too deep stretches (it can break)
5. STRESS (it’s one of our richest sensory organs)

Laura Gideon M.S. CPT, CES is an Exercise Physiologist, Certified Corrective Exercise Specialist, Pilates Practitioner, and Workshop Presenter. She has been involved in the fitness/wellness industry since 1981 and is a Two Time Corrective Exercise Specialist of the Year Top Finalist from The Biomechanics Method certifying organization. Her signature “Roll, Release & Mobilize classes” are geared toward “Hands-off self-treatment” helping clients eliminate pain, and discomfort, creating postural alignment awareness and body sense to help correct compensatory movement patterns. A great “adjunct” therapy to any exercise regime and functional daily movement activity. Laura enjoys educating her clients “beyond training” by teaching “self-care” methods to advance performance in an injury-free setting.

Myofascial Release, Centering Alignment & Corrective Exercise Connection

For decades there has been an epidemic rise in the number of people suffering from common musculoskeletal imbalances that are not caused by an injury. These imbalances are caused by other factors, such as movement dysfunction, activity choices, prolonged static postures, footwear choices, surgeries and sedentary lifestyles. Many with common musculoskeletal imbalances do not need physical therapy, whereby corrective exercise is evolving to fill the gap in care. The use of musculoskeletal assessments, self-myofascial release, restorative stretching, and corrective strengthening exercises in health and fitness settings is fast becoming commonplace to help remedy and relieve muscle & joint discomfort and pain.

As a Corrective Exercise Specialist Laura’s skill set is focused on addressing the body as a whole and identifying underlying causes of chronic pain not just the symptoms and help prevent the body from breaking down in the future. A sequenced method of structural assessments, myofascial release techniques, stretching, body centering and corrective exercises are applied. The benefits of this training can result in not only the elimination of pain, but lead to a reduction in stress and improvement in active performance and functional daily living.

Beginning on Sunday and throughout the week each class will incorporate movement and usable information. We will focus on different zones of the body using several of the techniques mentioned above in order to give participants more structural awareness, pain alleviating “hacks”, and corrective exercises to be able to easily replicate at home. Friday’s class will wrap everything up, ending your week with an energized feeling, full of vitality – moving more functionally and feeling GREAT!

 

Myofascial Release, Centering Alignment & Corrective Exercise Connection
Laura S Gideon M.S, CPT, CES
www.bamboobalance.com

Opening the week with a Brief intro & explanation of Fascia dehydration (causes of discomfort/pain) -therapeutic exercises to help alleviate discomfort. Followed by – The importance of centered posture and corrective exercise and its connection …. (Kinetic connection -the chain of movement starting at the bottom and moving up)

Sunday 9/15 – Focus is on:
Feet, Ankles, Calves, Shins

Monday 9/16 – Focus is on:
Knees, Thighs (Quads & Hams), Hips (Ad & Ab-ductors), IT band

Tuesday 9/17- Focus is on:
Pelvis, Hip Flexors (psoas), Glutes, Low Back (QL), Abs

Wednesday 9/18- Focus is on:
Mid back, Shoulders, Chest, Ribcage

Thursday 9/19- Focus is on:
Neck, Head, Arms, Hands

Friday 9/20- Focus is on:
Full Body (putting it all together), Overall Restoration, Fascia in Motion mvmt

Centering Alignment and “Proper” Posture of the Body 101
Posture muscles help to fix or stabilize a joint; they prevent movement, while other muscles create movement. They are composed of muscle fibers that have a particular capacity for prolonged work. For instance, as a person leans forward slightly to walk up a flight of stairs (the movement), the posture muscles surrounding the spine help to prevent the upper body from falling too far forward (they help keep the body upright).

There are three natural curves in a healthy vertebral spine. The low back (lumbar spine) curves inward (toward the anterior part of the body) and is referred to as a lordotic curve. The middle back (thoracic spine) is curved outward (posterior to the body) referred to as a Kyphotic curve. The neck (cervical spine) curves slightly forward and thus have a lordotic curve.

The term “Neutral Spine” usually refers to the lumbar region. Neutral spine is a pain-free position of the lumbar spine attained when the pressures in and around the pelvis joint structures are evenly distributed. The pelvis is balanced between its anterior and posterior positions.

Good posture—when you are standing:
Is the straight vertical alignment of your body from the top of your head, through your body’s center, to the bottom of your feet. The feet should be relaxed with the body’s weight resting on three points: the heel, the base of the big toe, and the little toe.

There are five principles of posture and movement that outline the ways our bodies work:
Posture Principle 1 – Movement. Your body is designed to move and stay moving. …
Posture Principle 2 – Balance. …
Posture Principle 3 – Movement Patterns. …
Posture Principle 4 – Compensation. …
Posture Principle 5 – Adaptation.

Fascia Loves
1. Hydration (think a sponge)
2. Movement (think water transportation)
3. Touch (think floorwork, massage, soft foam rollers)
4. Slow Stretch (think cats)
5. Bouncing (think jumping, dancing, running)

Fascia Hates
1. Static positions (sitting, slouching)
2. Repetitions (one-sided work or workouts)
3. Too quick stretches (it’s slower than muscles)
4. Too deep stretches (it can break)
5. STRESS (it’s one of our richest sensory organs)

Laura Gideon M.S. CPT, CES is an Exercise Physiologist, Certified Corrective Exercise Specialist, Pilates Practitioner, and Workshop Presenter. She has been involved in the fitness/wellness industry since 1981 and is a Two Time Corrective Exercise Specialist of the Year Top Finalist from The Biomechanics Method certifying organization. Her signature “Roll, Release & Mobilize classes” are geared toward “Hands-off self-treatment” helping clients eliminate pain, and discomfort, creating postural alignment awareness and body sense to help correct compensatory movement patterns. A great “adjunct” therapy to any exercise regime and functional daily movement activity. Laura enjoys educating her clients “beyond training” by teaching “self-care” methods to advance performance in an injury-free setting.

Myofascial Release, Centering Alignment & Corrective Exercise Connection

For decades there has been an epidemic rise in the number of people suffering from common musculoskeletal imbalances that are not caused by an injury. These imbalances are caused by other factors, such as movement dysfunction, activity choices, prolonged static postures, footwear choices, surgeries and sedentary lifestyles. Many with common musculoskeletal imbalances do not need physical therapy, whereby corrective exercise is evolving to fill the gap in care. The use of musculoskeletal assessments, self-myofascial release, restorative stretching, and corrective strengthening exercises in health and fitness settings is fast becoming commonplace to help remedy and relieve muscle & joint discomfort and pain.

As a Corrective Exercise Specialist Laura’s skill set is focused on addressing the body as a whole and identifying underlying causes of chronic pain not just the symptoms and help prevent the body from breaking down in the future. A sequenced method of structural assessments, myofascial release techniques, stretching, body centering and corrective exercises are applied. The benefits of this training can result in not only the elimination of pain, but lead to a reduction in stress and improvement in active performance and functional daily living.

Beginning on Sunday and throughout the week each class will incorporate movement and usable information. We will focus on different zones of the body using several of the techniques mentioned above in order to give participants more structural awareness, pain alleviating “hacks”, and corrective exercises to be able to easily replicate at home. Friday’s class will wrap everything up, ending your week with an energized feeling, full of vitality – moving more functionally and feeling GREAT!

 

Myofascial Release, Centering Alignment & Corrective Exercise Connection
Laura S Gideon M.S, CPT, CES
www.bamboobalance.com

Opening the week with a Brief intro & explanation of Fascia dehydration (causes of discomfort/pain) -therapeutic exercises to help alleviate discomfort. Followed by – The importance of centered posture and corrective exercise and its connection …. (Kinetic connection -the chain of movement starting at the bottom and moving up)

Sunday 9/15 – Focus is on:
Feet, Ankles, Calves, Shins

Monday 9/16 – Focus is on:
Knees, Thighs (Quads & Hams), Hips (Ad & Ab-ductors), IT band

Tuesday 9/17- Focus is on:
Pelvis, Hip Flexors (psoas), Glutes, Low Back (QL), Abs

Wednesday 9/18- Focus is on:
Mid back, Shoulders, Chest, Ribcage

Thursday 9/19- Focus is on:
Neck, Head, Arms, Hands

Friday 9/20- Focus is on:
Full Body (putting it all together), Overall Restoration, Fascia in Motion mvmt

Centering Alignment and “Proper” Posture of the Body 101
Posture muscles help to fix or stabilize a joint; they prevent movement, while other muscles create movement. They are composed of muscle fibers that have a particular capacity for prolonged work. For instance, as a person leans forward slightly to walk up a flight of stairs (the movement), the posture muscles surrounding the spine help to prevent the upper body from falling too far forward (they help keep the body upright).

There are three natural curves in a healthy vertebral spine. The low back (lumbar spine) curves inward (toward the anterior part of the body) and is referred to as a lordotic curve. The middle back (thoracic spine) is curved outward (posterior to the body) referred to as a Kyphotic curve. The neck (cervical spine) curves slightly forward and thus have a lordotic curve.

The term “Neutral Spine” usually refers to the lumbar region. Neutral spine is a pain-free position of the lumbar spine attained when the pressures in and around the pelvis joint structures are evenly distributed. The pelvis is balanced between its anterior and posterior positions.

Good posture—when you are standing:
Is the straight vertical alignment of your body from the top of your head, through your body’s center, to the bottom of your feet. The feet should be relaxed with the body’s weight resting on three points: the heel, the base of the big toe, and the little toe.

There are five principles of posture and movement that outline the ways our bodies work:
Posture Principle 1 – Movement. Your body is designed to move and stay moving. …
Posture Principle 2 – Balance. …
Posture Principle 3 – Movement Patterns. …
Posture Principle 4 – Compensation. …
Posture Principle 5 – Adaptation.

Fascia Loves
1. Hydration (think a sponge)
2. Movement (think water transportation)
3. Touch (think floorwork, massage, soft foam rollers)
4. Slow Stretch (think cats)
5. Bouncing (think jumping, dancing, running)

Fascia Hates
1. Static positions (sitting, slouching)
2. Repetitions (one-sided work or workouts)
3. Too quick stretches (it’s slower than muscles)
4. Too deep stretches (it can break)
5. STRESS (it’s one of our richest sensory organs)

Laura Gideon M.S. CPT, CES is an Exercise Physiologist, Certified Corrective Exercise Specialist, Pilates Practitioner, and Workshop Presenter. She has been involved in the fitness/wellness industry since 1981 and is a Two Time Corrective Exercise Specialist of the Year Top Finalist from The Biomechanics Method certifying organization. Her signature “Roll, Release & Mobilize classes” are geared toward “Hands-off self-treatment” helping clients eliminate pain, and discomfort, creating postural alignment awareness and body sense to help correct compensatory movement patterns. A great “adjunct” therapy to any exercise regime and functional daily movement activity. Laura enjoys educating her clients “beyond training” by teaching “self-care” methods to advance performance in an injury-free setting.

Synchronized Swimming with Katie Killebrew

Join Katie in the pool for a week of learning how to float, kick and make formations in the pool set to music Ester Williams style. This class will meet everyday for 1hr and will perform a routine on the last day of class. If you have dreamed of being a mermaid and wanting to learn all the beginning and basic skills of synchronized swimming this class is for you. Fancy caps will be provided for our show day. Make a grand splash in the pool this summer.

 

Katie Killebrew was born with movement like a mermaid. Katie began in the pool at age 6 synchronizing swimming and training for what would be her platform for teaching.

Katie’s athletic prowess led her to national and world titles in synchronized swimming and shows like Splash, Sea World and other performances around the world. Katie is a nationally recognized instructor in aquatics and leads yoga/aquatic retreats around the globe! Katie loves to share her passion for the water and how therapeutic it can be for your whole body.

Katie’s bubbly personality and compassionate, gentle, and caring heart clearly comes through in her teachings. Katie is committed to helping her students create balance, joy and fun.

Synchronized Swimming with Katie Killebrew

Join Katie in the pool for a week of learning how to float, kick and make formations in the pool set to music Ester Williams style. This class will meet everyday for 1hr and will perform a routine on the last day of class. If you have dreamed of being a mermaid and wanting to learn all the beginning and basic skills of synchronized swimming this class is for you. Fancy caps will be provided for our show day. Make a grand splash in the pool this summer.

 

Katie Killebrew was born with movement like a mermaid. Katie began in the pool at age 6 synchronizing swimming and training for what would be her platform for teaching.

Katie’s athletic prowess led her to national and world titles in synchronized swimming and shows like Splash, Sea World and other performances around the world. Katie is a nationally recognized instructor in aquatics and leads yoga/aquatic retreats around the globe! Katie loves to share her passion for the water and how therapeutic it can be for your whole body.

Katie’s bubbly personality and compassionate, gentle, and caring heart clearly comes through in her teachings. Katie is committed to helping her students create balance, joy and fun.

Water Week with Craig Stuart

Craig Stuart is the founder and Director of HYDRO-FIT. A certified fitness instructor with the Aquatic Exercise Association and ACE, Craig leads the water exercise industry as an innovator, specialist, educator, and fitness professional. He is well known for his motivating educational techniques and energizing teaching style. Craig is the 1992 recipient of AEA’s Contribution to the Aquatic Fitness Industry Award and the 2002 recipient of the Aquatic Therapy & Rehab Institutes’ Tsunami Spirit Award.

Water Week with Craig Stuart

Craig Stuart is the founder and Director of HYDRO-FIT. A certified fitness instructor with the Aquatic Exercise Association and ACE, Craig leads the water exercise industry as an innovator, specialist, educator, and fitness professional. He is well known for his motivating educational techniques and energizing teaching style. Craig is the 1992 recipient of AEA’s Contribution to the Aquatic Fitness Industry Award and the 2002 recipient of the Aquatic Therapy & Rehab Institutes’ Tsunami Spirit Award.

Water Week with Craig Stuart

Craig Stuart is the founder and Director of HYDRO-FIT. A certified fitness instructor with the Aquatic Exercise Association and ACE, Craig leads the water exercise industry as an innovator, specialist, educator, and fitness professional. He is well known for his motivating educational techniques and energizing teaching style. Craig is the 1992 recipient of AEA’s Contribution to the Aquatic Fitness Industry Award and the 2002 recipient of the Aquatic Therapy & Rehab Institutes’ Tsunami Spirit Award.

Water Week with Craig Stuart

Craig Stuart is the founder and Director of HYDRO-FIT. A certified fitness instructor with the Aquatic Exercise Association and ACE, Craig leads the water exercise industry as an innovator, specialist, educator, and fitness professional. He is well known for his motivating educational techniques and energizing teaching style. Craig is the 1992 recipient of AEA’s Contribution to the Aquatic Fitness Industry Award and the 2002 recipient of the Aquatic Therapy & Rehab Institutes’ Tsunami Spirit Award.

Water Week with Craig Stuart

Craig Stuart is the founder and Director of HYDRO-FIT. A certified fitness instructor with the Aquatic Exercise Association and ACE, Craig leads the water exercise industry as an innovator, specialist, educator, and fitness professional. He is well known for his motivating educational techniques and energizing teaching style. Craig is the 1992 recipient of AEA’s Contribution to the Aquatic Fitness Industry Award and the 2002 recipient of the Aquatic Therapy & Rehab Institutes’ Tsunami Spirit Award.

Hands-On Cooking Classes and Chef’s Table Dinner with Ángel Lopez

Angel offers hands-on culinary experiences, 3.5 hours each, during which you will enjoy preparing your own meal along with fellow cooks. Classes take place at La Cocina Que Canta, our culinary center on Tuesday and Wednesday, at 4pm. In addition, Chef Angel will collaborate with La Cocina Que Canta’s Executive Chef Reyna Venegas and her team to create a special feast (with wine pairing!) on Thursday at 4:45pm.

Hands On Cooking Classes and Chefs Dinner Sign Up

 

Tuesday Hands-On Cooking Class 11:30 AM
Each class $145 (tax included). Class subject to change, check your weekly planner and schedule for updates. The maximum number of guests per class is 14.

Wednesday Hands-On Cooking Class 4:00 PM
Each class $145 (tax included). Class subject to change, check your weekly planner and schedule for updates. The maximum number of guests per class is 14.

Thursday Farm-to-Table Dining Experience 4:45 PM
Celebrate the abundance of our organic farm and the connection to community with a Farm-to-Table dining experience – a perfect blend of health, tradition, flavor, and fun! Cost is $150 per person, tax and wine pairing included. The maximum number of guests is 30. Sign Up at the Appointments Desk or through the link above.

 

Ángel López is a founding partner of “Casa de los Cirios” in Tecate, Baja California. This project is dedicated to the promotion of food culture through gastronomic experiences focused on traditional Mexican cuisine. With a solid background in nutrition, Ángel graduated from the Nutrition Therapy Institute in Denver, Colorado. Additionally, he has gained profound knowledge of food culture through his training at the National School of Anthropology and History in Mexico City. His commitment to preserving Mexico’s culinary traditions has led him to undergo multiple training sessions with traditional cooks and explore various states in central and southern Mexico, enabling in-depth research into the customs and culinary knowledge of different regions of the country. Ángel has also successfully completed his internship to become a certified garden master, collaborating with the Ecology Action project in Willits, California. His current work focuses on being a chef and cultural promoter, through which he shares valuable workshops with the community. These workshops cover topics such as cacao, chili, corn, nixtamalization processes, and ancestral Mexican beverages. Ángel López is a staunch believer in food sovereignty and advocates for the importance of growing our own food. His passion lies in sharing the culinary roots of Mexico with those drawn to the flavors and aromas of Mexican cuisine. His work is essential for preserving and spreading Mexico’s gastronomic heritage.

 

Executive Chef Reyna Venegas prepares fresh and delicious food that energizes,  inspires, and nourishes guests. She fuses the culinary and cultural heritages of her own Northern Baja roots with the nutritious “spa cuisine” pioneered 80 years ago by Rancho La Puerta co-founder Deborah Szekely. At La Cocina Que Canta, “The Kitchen That Sings,” Chef Reyna teaches healthy eating as a celebration of life in farm-to-table cooking classes.

As a lifelong learner, Chef Reyna graduated from University of California, San Diego’s Integrative Nutrition program, which focuses on how food promotes wellness. She is also a graduate of the Culinary Art School in Tijuana, and holds a Pastry Degree from the Lycée Technique et Hôtelier de Monte-Carlo and Fondation Turquois.

She and her husband Chef Marcelo Hisaki own Restaurante Amores, a hidden culinary jewel in the heart of Baja and currently collaborates as manager of Team Mexico on their way to the Bocuse d’Or Americas 2024.

Cycle Strength with Keli Roberts

Keli Roberts has been recognized for many prestigious awards in the fitness industry. In 2003, she was named the IDEA International Fitness Instructor of the year. In 2005, Keli was awarded the Best Female Presenter and in 2008 she received the Lifetime Achievement OBOW award and in 2007 she was inducted into the National Fitness Hall of Fame. Keli is an ACSM EP and holds certifications through FAI, and ACE as a GFI, HC, CPT and Senior Fitness Specialist. Moreover, Keli is an SCW Faculty Member, a Schwinn Senior Master Trainer and an Ambassador for Ryka.

Cycle Strength with Keli Roberts

Keli Roberts has been recognized for many prestigious awards in the fitness industry. In 2003, she was named the IDEA International Fitness Instructor of the year. In 2005, Keli was awarded the Best Female Presenter and in 2008 she received the Lifetime Achievement OBOW award and in 2007 she was inducted into the National Fitness Hall of Fame. Keli is an ACSM EP and holds certifications through FAI, and ACE as a GFI, HC, CPT and Senior Fitness Specialist. Moreover, Keli is an SCW Faculty Member, a Schwinn Senior Master Trainer and an Ambassador for Ryka.

Breath Work with Shanti Tilling

You can survive weeks without food, days without water, but only minutes without air!!  Breath is absolutely vital for our survival and while every functional breath you take can enhance your health and vitality, dysfunctional breathing can lead to low energy levels, decreased focus and even illness.

Think you know how to breathe? Join Shanti for an educational and interactive exploratory breathing class and learn powerful practices to take control of your physical and emotional states! 

Each performance breath class will combine ancient breathing practices with new age science for a unique experience that teaches participants how to consciously manage their energy and stress levels. You will learn specific and actionable breathing tools and techniques that both energize and promote deep relaxation.

 

Shanti Tilling is a leading personal trainer and fitness instructor, shaping the lives of clients around the globe. She has spent the last 26 years training both both indoors and outside, flying internationally with corporate clients, and 7 years as the onsite fitness instructor for 2 major film studios. As a holistic wellness coach specializing in true functional movement and corrective exercise, Shanti’s passion is inspiring people of all fitness abilities to be strong for what they love to do, and helping them create their own healthy, active lives.

Shanti is an outdoor fitness junkie and has cycled, ran, hiked, climbed, paddled, and surfed all over the world. Her love for adventurous travel combined with a passion for fitness led her to create Sweat Play Live fitness retreats in 2010. Shanti lives in Punta de Mita, Mexico and feels fortunate to spend time connecting with clients and retreat guests from around the world.