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Healthy Pleasures

Healthy Pleasures: Why Everything that Feels Good is Not Bad
Many people think that to promote health they must undertake strict weight-loss diets, adopt punishing exercise programs, avoid salt, shun cholesterol, and follow all sorts of arduous, pleasure-denying regimens.  Fortunately, scientific evidence now suggests that for most people doing what is pleasurable, from sensual delights to selfless pleasures, from optimism to laughter, pays off twice: immediate enjoyment and better health. So taking a siesta, playing with a pet, talking to a friend, looking at nature, smelling a sweet scent, laughing at a funny movie, going shopping, having sex, soaking up the heat of a sauna, taking a vacation, passionately pursuing a hobby, sipping a glass of wine, indulging in chocolate (yes, chocolate!), listening to your favorite music, helping someone in need, thinking optimistically, practicing gratitude, and scores of other healthy pleasures may measurably improve your health.

Behavior Change Made Simpler: Health Benefits of Success and Confidence
Strong evidence suggests that celebrating successful behavior change (no matter how small!) increases confidence, and confidence itself improves health and well-being. So while increasing exercise, eating more healthfully, and managing weight are important, most of us experience repeated failure in maintaining long-term behavior change.  What does repeated failure do to our sense of confidence and control? Happily, there are practical ways to improve confidence, success, and health through small changes without sacrificing enjoyment. You don’t have to kill yourself to save your life! 

Stress: Avoid, Cope or Embrace?
Do you often feel that stress depletes your health, vitality, and health? Do you believe that stress is negative and should be avoided? Or do you view stress as positive- something that enhances your health, growth, and performance? It turns out that our beliefs about stress (our “mindsets”) may be more powerful in shaping our health, than stress itself. Rather than just managing stress, learn how to shift mindset to embrace and utilize stress as something helpful.

Rx Healthy Sex: Is Sex Good Medicine?
Sexuality is central to human well-being, but most of medicine is focused on sexual dysfunction and health risks of sexual activity. But can enjoying the pleasures of sex have benefits for health and well-being? Is good sex good for you? We will explore the scientific evidence that sexual activity can increase longevity, lower heart disease risk, reduce prostate cancer, reduced vaginal atrophy, burn calories, improve marital satisfaction, support successful aging, reduce stress and even stop headaches. We will also consider if sex be prescribed and how can sexual satisfaction be enhanced.

Rancho La Puerta (Sobel Handout) Oct 2022

 

David Sobel,David S. Sobel, MD, MPH, is Adjunct Lecturer, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, and Visiting Scholar at Stanford’s Center for Advanced Study in Behavioral Sciences (CASBS). He was Director of Patient Education and Health Promotion for Kaiser Permanente Northern California which serves over 4 million members and practiced adult primary care medicine.   Dr. Sobel completed a Bachelor’s degree in psychology (University of Michigan), medical education (University of California San Francisco), medical internship (Presbyterian Hospital-Pacific Medical Center), Masters in Public Health and a residency program in General Preventive Medicine (UC Berkeley). His research and teaching interests include medical self-care, patient education, preventive medicine, behavioral medicine and psychosocial factors in health. He has written ten books: including The Healing Brain, Healthy Pleasures, The Mind & Body Health Handbook, Ways of Health: Holistic Approaches to Ancient and Contemporary Medicine, and Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions.  Dr. Sobel’s more than 200 television appearances to educate the public about health issues include the Today Show, CNN, Hour Magazine, and a television news segment on an ABC news affiliate station in San Jose. He also served as an invited delegate to the Congress that generated the Ottawa Charter on Health Promotion. He has provided over 500 invited keynote lectures in a variety of professional and public venues including the World Health Organization (W.H.O.), American Hospital Association, National Institutes for Health, National Health Service (NHS UK), UCSF, Stanford, Harvard, and Esalen Institute.

 

Be Quiet, Be Heard

Hidden Communication: Why People Hear What We Don’t  Say  A world of communication lurks below the surface of our awareness. When we are in conflict, this hidden dimension often catapults us into confusion and mind-bending emotion, thwarting creative resolution and conscious action. Drs. Glaser are former actors as well as award-winning researchers and university professors. They dramatize compelling conflict scenarios to demonstrate what happens when conflict invades our world and how to master seemingly deadlocked moments in challenging business, family, and personal situations.

Power Listening
When interpersonal pressure is on, listening is too often the first casualty. When dialogue turns to criticism, we often revert to unconscious auto-pilot reactions with defensive responses that may damage the relationship and make problems worse. This session provides a five-step model for transforming defensiveness and blame into insight and agreement. Speakers dramatize how trust increases when each person feels heard and understood.

Navigating Challenging Conversations
Why it is that people we care about too often feel defensive when we try to convey suggestions for improving their behavior and our relationship? How can we stop torpedoing our efforts and instead transform conflict into cooperation, discord into harmony, and make good relationships even better? This presentation provides a four-step model for raising issues that renders remarkable results: solving the problem, strengthening the relationship, and deepening trust – without creating a negative reaction.

 

 

Peter A. Glaser, Ph.D. and Susan R. Glaser, Ph.D. received their doctorates in Communication from the Pennsylvania State University. Their BreakThrough Communication series won the Gold Award for best hybrid learning of 2022 from the International E-Learning Association.

Authors of the internationally acclaimed book, Be Quiet, Be Heard: The Paradox of Persuasion, they have been married business partners and co-presenters for their entire career. Drs. Glaser have published three books and more than 40 research articles.

Their research on transforming organizational culture has received the International Association of Business Communication Research Foundation Award for bridging communication theory with practical application. They also received the Pennsylvania State University Outstanding Alumni Award. Feature stories have been written about their work in Business Week, Fast Company, Psychology Today, Newsday, Nation’s Business, National Business Review, Working Woman, Success Magazine, and the Washington Post.

The Glasers have served as members of the University of Oregon faculty as well as global consultants working with leaders from Fortune 100 companies such as Microsoft, Hewlett Packard, Facebook, Tektronix, Hyundai, and Sony Corporation. They have worked with leaders and companies throughout the UK, Canada, India, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Hong Kong, Australia, and New Zealand. They also have worked with federal, state, and local government leaders – including their ongoing work with the US Congress.

Learn more about the Glasers in this short video: https://youtu.be/9yRDUExpfow and by visiting theglasers.com.

Be Quiet, Be Heard

Hidden Communication: Why People Hear What We Don’t  Say  A world of communication lurks below the surface of our awareness. When we are in conflict, this hidden dimension often catapults us into confusion and mind-bending emotion, thwarting creative resolution and conscious action. Drs. Glaser are former actors as well as award-winning researchers and university professors. They dramatize compelling conflict scenarios to demonstrate what happens when conflict invades our world and how to master seemingly deadlocked moments in challenging business, family, and personal situations.

Power Listening
When interpersonal pressure is on, listening is too often the first casualty. When dialogue turns to criticism, we often revert to unconscious auto-pilot reactions with defensive responses that may damage the relationship and make problems worse. This session provides a five-step model for transforming defensiveness and blame into insight and agreement. Speakers dramatize how trust increases when each person feels heard and understood.

Navigating Challenging Conversations
Why it is that people we care about too often feel defensive when we try to convey suggestions for improving their behavior and our relationship? How can we stop torpedoing our efforts and instead transform conflict into cooperation, discord into harmony, and make good relationships even better? This presentation provides a four-step model for raising issues that renders remarkable results: solving the problem, strengthening the relationship, and deepening trust – without creating a negative reaction.

 

 

Peter A. Glaser, Ph.D. and Susan R. Glaser, Ph.D. received their doctorates in Communication from the Pennsylvania State University. Their BreakThrough Communication series won the Gold Award for best hybrid learning of 2022 from the International E-Learning Association.

Authors of the internationally acclaimed book, Be Quiet, Be Heard: The Paradox of Persuasion, they have been married business partners and co-presenters for their entire career. Drs. Glaser have published three books and more than 40 research articles.

Their research on transforming organizational culture has received the International Association of Business Communication Research Foundation Award for bridging communication theory with practical application. They also received the Pennsylvania State University Outstanding Alumni Award. Feature stories have been written about their work in Business Week, Fast Company, Psychology Today, Newsday, Nation’s Business, National Business Review, Working Woman, Success Magazine, and the Washington Post.

The Glasers have served as members of the University of Oregon faculty as well as global consultants working with leaders from Fortune 100 companies such as Microsoft, Hewlett Packard, Facebook, Tektronix, Hyundai, and Sony Corporation. They have worked with leaders and companies throughout the UK, Canada, India, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Hong Kong, Australia, and New Zealand. They also have worked with federal, state, and local government leaders – including their ongoing work with the US Congress.

Learn more about the Glasers in this short video: https://youtu.be/9yRDUExpfow and by visiting theglasers.com.

The Altar in the Day of the Dead Celebration explained by José Guadalupe Flores, Ph.D.

The Altar in the Day of the Dead Celebration explained by José Guadalupe Flores, Ph.D.
Our traditional Day of the Dead altar in the Dining Hall is built by Professor Flores together with students from the University of Baja California, Tijuana. Professor Flores explains the significance of the Day of the Dead celebration and the altar in Mexican culture. You are welcome to bring a photo of a deceased loved one to place on the altar and to write a thought for the Tree of Remembrance. The dessert that evening will include the traditional Day of the Dead bread and hot chocolate enjoyed all over Mexico during these days.

 

Dr. José Guadalupe Flores was born in Tijuana and studied both in Mexico and the US, obtaining his BA, MA and PhD degrees at the University of San Diego and a Law Degree from the Universidad Iberoamericana in Mexico.  He taught for 42 years at the Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Tijuana.  He has represented the Mexican Academic Community in many educational events at UNESCO and other educational institutions.  He has done extensive research on Mexican and Cuban cultural affairs.  He has presented altars during the Day of the Dead celebrations in Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona, Cuenca, and the Canary Islands, as well as in San Diego and at Rancho La Puerta during our yearly festivities.

The Altar in the Day of the Dead Celebration explained by José Guadalupe Flores, Ph.D.

The Altar in the Day of the Dead Celebration explained by José Guadalupe Flores, Ph.D.
Our traditional Day of the Dead altar in the Dining Hall is built by Professor Flores together with students from the University of Baja California, Tijuana. Professor Flores explains the significance of the Day of the Dead celebration and the altar in Mexican culture. You are welcome to bring a photo of a deceased loved one to place on the altar and to write a thought for the Tree of Remembrance. The dessert that evening will include the traditional Day of the Dead bread and hot chocolate enjoyed all over Mexico during these days.

 

Dr. José Guadalupe Flores was born in Tijuana and studied both in Mexico and the US, obtaining his BA, MA and PhD degrees at the University of San Diego and a Law Degree from the Universidad Iberoamericana in Mexico.  He taught for 42 years at the Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Tijuana.  He has represented the Mexican Academic Community in many educational events at UNESCO and other educational institutions.  He has done extensive research on Mexican and Cuban cultural affairs.  He has presented altars during the Day of the Dead celebrations in Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona, Cuenca, and the Canary Islands, as well as in San Diego and at Rancho La Puerta during our yearly festivities.

Day of the Dead Festivities with José Guadalupe Flores and Diane Arkin

Saturday
Visit Professor’s Park for an outstanding display of Day of the Dead Altars.
Take the van from the Ranch to the Park. Activities throughout the day.

Saturday 7 pm Dining Room
The Altar in the Day of the Dead Celebration explained by José Guadalupe Flores, Ph.D.
Our traditional Day of the Dead altar in the Dining Hall is built by Professor Flores together with students from the University of Baja California, Tijuana. Professor Flores explains the significance of the Day of the Dead celebration and the altar in Mexican culture. You are welcome to bring a photo of a deceased loved one to place on the altar and to write a thought for the tree of remembrance. The dessert that evening will include the traditional Day of the Dead bread and hot chocolate enjoyed all over Mexico during these days.

Dr. José Guadalupe Flores was born in Tijuana and studied both in Mexico and the US, obtaining his BA, MA and PhD degrees at the University of San Diego and a Law Degree from the Universidad Iberoamericana in Mexico.  He taught for 42 years at the Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Tijuana.  He has represented the Mexican Academic Community in many educational events at UNESCO and other educational institutions.  He has done extensive research on Mexican and Cuban cultural affairs.  He has presented altars during the Day of the Dead celebrations in Spain in Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona, Cuenca, and the Canary Islands, as well as in San Diego and at Rancho La Puerta during our yearly festivities.

Saturday 8 pm Olmeca Gym
Deciphering the Day of the Dead  — a slide show with Diane Arkin 
With roots dating back thousands of years, the Day of the Dead is one of the most important celebrations in Mexico. It has become a blend of Catholic tradition and Mexican mysticism, commemorating death as another element of life, and as a way to remember and honor loved ones who have passed. But the Day of the Dead is not grim. It is a powerful affirmation of life and creativity with its rich and complex traditions that continue to filter into popular culture throughout the world. Come and explore the purpose of the holiday, specific Mexican artists like Posada who popularized it, where it originated, who celebrates it, how it is celebrated, its relation to other holidays, and how it remains a symbol of Mexican national and ethnic identity.

 

The Magic, Myths and Magnetism of Art

Giants of 20th Century Mexican Mural Art
Mexico has long been a magnet for an international community of avant-garde intellectuals, writers, poets, and artists, but it is Rivera, Orozco, and Siqueiros who would shape an artistic revolution and an imaginative new vision, bringing both fame and notoriety as they went on to influence generations of Mexican artists, while also profoundly impacting American art at mid-century. Join Diane Arkin to explore, discover, and discuss this extraordinary cultural and artistic legacy of Mexico.

Deciphering the Day of the Dead (Dia de Muertos)
With roots dating back thousands of years, the Day of the Dead is one of the most important celebrations in Mexico. It has become a blend of Catholic tradition and Mexican mysticism, commemorating death as another element of life, and as a way to remember and honor loved ones who have passed. But the Day of the Dead is not grim. It is a powerful affirmation of life and creativity with its rich and complex traditions that continue to filter into popular culture throughout the world. Come and explore the purpose of the holiday, specific Mexican artists like Posada who popularized it, where it originated, who celebrates it, how it is celebrated, its relation to other holidays, and how it remains a symbol of Mexican national and ethnic identity.

Spanish and Mexican Surrealism: The Magic of Miro, Dilemma of Dali, and Fantasies of Frida
The dream imagery, personal sign languages, auras of fantasy, and subconscious feelings that surrealist artists explored are all evidenced in the paintings of Miro and Dali, two of the best-known 20th-century Spanish surrealist painters. But we also find these elements in the extraordinary art of Frida Kahlo, a truly iconic Mexican surrealist painter who forged a unique and original type of art filled with personal symbolism. These artists took separate paths to express their shared interests, with Miro creating child-like, carefree, abstract, and poetic images, with flamboyant Dali pursuing painting with hallucinatory impact and power to shock, and with Kahlo virtually re-inventing self-portraiture as autobiography. Join Diane Arkin as we unravel the mysteries in the surrealist art of these three giants of modernism.

Enjoying Modern Art
Modern art can baffle, challenge, irritate, and delight us. By throwing away past traditions, artists like Van Gogh, Gauguin, Cezanne, Picasso, Miro, Rauschenberg, Warhol, Wiley, and Kim experimented with new ideas and materials to revolutionize the art experience. With an emphasis on 19th, 20th, and 21st century art we will track the hand of the artist, the growing emphasis on the psychological, and the movement toward abstraction.  Join Diane Arkin for a session of careful looking and lively discussion aimed at discovering, exploring, and enjoying modern art.

 

Diane ArkinFor VIP’s, dignitaries, superstars, and celebrities, Diane Arkin, retired Senior Lecturer at the National Gallery of Art, was the scholar routinely called on to provide engaging, entertaining, and thought-provoking presentations on subjects spanning treasures from the medieval period through the most challenging art of today. She also lectured nationally on museum education, trends in theory and practice, active learning strategies, and museums as unique learning environments. Prior to coming to the National Gallery of Art, Diane served as Curator of Education at the Corcoran Gallery of Art and College of Art and Design in Washington, DC, and as Director of Education at the Walters Art Museum in Baltimore. Diane’s work as a Program Coordinator in both the Resident Associate Program and the International Study Tours Division of the Smithsonian Institution included years of lecturing both domestically and internationally on a broad range of art historical subjects.

Day of the Dead Festivities with Luisa McCarthy and José Guadalupe Flores

Luisa McCarthy will host a colorful and exciting presentation!

Dia de Los Muertos Dance Performance (evening during the week)
During Dia de Los Muertos, dancing is an offering to those who have passed. It is another way to bring joy and celebration to the spirits that visit us at the altar.

Lotería Mexicana (evening during the week)
This Mexican treasure is more than a card game, it’s a family tradition — A Mexican board game of chance, similar to bingo with a Mexican twist that adds images relative to folk tales and general culture.

“Lotería” – The word you shout out with pride when winning Loteria.
One thing that never changes is the love of the game, which runs deep in Mexican families. Lotería will be hosted by Luisa, dressed as La Catrina

Dia de los Muertos themed prizes for the lucky winners!

 

Luisa McCarthy is the Director and Producer of the largest traditional Día de los Muertos celebration in San Diego County. Luisa grew up traditionally celebrating Día de los Muertos in her hometown of Mexico City. Although Luisa has a master’s degree in Business Management from the University of Redlands, her heart is in community service. She is proud to have initiated an authentic Día de los Muertos celebration which she hosts yearly at La Vista Memorial Park, a 40-acre park that provides the community a place to acknowledge and celebrate loved ones in a cemetery consistently mindful of the souls who rest there. She has honed her skills of organizing events from her continued education in the Event Management.

 

Friday 7 pm Dining Room
The Altar in the Day of the Dead Celebration explained by José Guadalupe Flores, Ph.D.
Our traditional Day of the Dead altar in the Dining Hall is built by Professor Flores together with students from the University of Baja California, Tijuana. Professor Flores explains the significance of the Day of the Dead celebration and the altar in Mexican culture. You are welcome to bring a photo of a deceased loved one to place on the altar and to write a thought for the Tree of Remembrance. The dessert that evening will include the traditional Day of the Dead bread and hot chocolate enjoyed all over Mexico during these days.

 

Dr. José Guadalupe Flores was born in Tijuana and studied both in Mexico and the US, obtaining his BA, MA and PhD degrees at the University of San Diego and a Law Degree from the Universidad Iberoamericana in Mexico.  He taught for 42 years at the Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Tijuana.  He has represented the Mexican Academic Community in many educational events at UNESCO and other educational institutions.  He has done extensive research on Mexican and Cuban cultural affairs.  He has presented altars during the Day of the Dead celebrations in Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona, Cuenca, and the Canary Islands, as well as in San Diego and at Rancho La Puerta during our yearly festivities.

Day of the Dead Activities

Monday, October 31st – 7 pm, Dining Room
The Altar in the Day of the Dead Celebration explained by José Guadalupe Flores, Ph.D.
Our traditional Day of the Dead altar in the Dining Hall is built by Professor Flores together with students from the University of Baja California, Tijuana.  At dinner, Professor Flores explains the significance of the Day of the Dead celebration and the altar in Mexican culture You are welcome to bring a photo of a    deceased loved one to place on the altar and to write a thought for the tree of remembrance. The dessert that evening will include the traditional Day of the Dead bread and hot chocolate enjoyed, which are enjoyed all over Mexico during these days.

Dr. José Guadalupe Flores was born in Tijuana and studied both in Mexico and the US, obtaining his BA, MA and PhD degrees at the University of San Diego and a Law Degree from the Universidad Iberoamericana in Mexico.  He taught for 42 years at the Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Tijuana.  He has represented the Mexican Academic Community in many educational events at UNESCO and other educational institutions.  He has done extensive research on Mexican and Cuban cultural affairs.  He has presented altars during the Day of the Dead celebrations in Spain in Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona, Cuenca, and the Canary Islands, as well as in San Diego and at Rancho La Puerta during our yearly festivities.

 


Tuesday, November 1st  – 8 pm Olmeca Gym
Deciphering the Day of the Dead (Dia de Muertos) with Diane Arkin, retired senior lecturer of the National Gallery of Art
With roots dating back thousands of years, the Day of the Dead is one of the most important celebrations in Mexico. It has become a blend of Catholic tradition and Mexican mysticism, commemorating death as another element of life, and as a way to remember and honor loved ones who have passed. But the Day of the Dead is not grim. It is a powerful affirmation of life and creativity with its rich and complex traditions that continue to filter into popular culture throughout the world. Come and explore the purpose of the holiday, specific Mexican artists like Posada who popularized it, where it originated, who celebrates it, how it is celebrated, its relation to other holidays, and how it remains a symbol of Mexican national and ethnic identity.   (See Diane Arkin, The Magic, Myths and Magnetism of Art.)

 

Wednesday, November 2nd
Day of the Dead Display, with Luisa McCarthy – 3 pm Gazebo
The Mercado exhibits artisanal art from different regions of Mexico.  Luisa McCarthy will tell us about this Mexican tradition.  Join us for this colorful event and for guacamole & chips.
Day of the Dead Aztec Dance and Ceremony, introduced by Luisa McCarthy – 7 pm Dining Hall
A 15-minute Aztec Day of the Dead celebration by a dance troupe from Tijuana.

Luisa McCarthy is the Director and Producer of the largest traditional Día de los Muertos celebration in San Diego County.   Luisa grew up traditionally celebrating Día de los Muertos in her hometown of Mexico City.  Although Luisa has a master’s degree in Business Management from the University of Redlands, her heart is in community service.  She is proud to have initiated an authentic Día de los Muertos celebration which she hosts yearly at La Vista Memorial Park, a 40 acre park that provides the community a place to acknowledge and celebrate loved ones in a cemetery consistently mindful of the souls who rest there.  She has honed her skills of organizing events from her continued education in the Event Management Certification Program at the University of San Diego.  As co-owner of La Vista, she is able to pull out all the stops for her beloved Día de los Muertos celebration.  This celebration was inspired by the loss of her father, Julius E. McCarthy, laid to rest in Valle Las Palmas cemetery, Tecate, B.C., Mexico.  She now brings this celebration to Rancho La Puerta to share with guests and her Ranch family.

Day of the Dead Activities

Sunday October 23
Events at Professor’s Park 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm

The following are the events scheduled for the day.  In addition, there will be Day of the Dead altars, plenty of food stand and crafts for sale, in case you want to bring cash with you.  Departure will be at 6:30 pm to allow you to arrive at the Ranch at 6:45 pm for dinner.  If you wish to stay longer, the second and last pick up will be at 7:30 pm, but you will no longer make it for dinner at the Ranch.
5:30 pm Park Opens
5:40 pm Welcoming
5:50 pm Children’s Painting Workshop
6:00 pm Performance Art of Elan with Kathrine Hatmaker and Alex Greenbaum
6:30 pm Theatre Performance
8:00 pm Musical Expression Group
9:30 pm Events Closes

Friday October 28 – 7 pm, Dining Room
The Altar in the Day of the Dead Celebration explained by José Guadalupe Flores, Ph.D.
Our traditional Day of the Dead altar in the Dining Hall is built by Professor Flores together with students from the University of Baja California, Tijuana.  At dinner, Professor Flores explains the significance of the Day of the Dead celebration and the altar in Mexican culture You are welcome to bring a photo of a    deceased loved one to place on the altar and to write a thought for the tree of remembrance. The dessert that evening will include the traditional Day of the Dead bread and hot chocolate enjoyed, which are enjoyed all over Mexico during these days.
Dr. José Guadalupe Flores was born in Tijuana and studied both in Mexico and the US, obtaining his BA, MA and PhD degrees at the University of San Diego and a Law Degree from the Universidad Iberoamericana in Mexico.  He taught for 42 years at the Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Tijuana.  He has represented the Mexican Academic Community in many educational events at UNESCO and other educational institutions.  He has done extensive research on Mexican and Cuban cultural affairs.  He has presented altars during the Day of the Dead celebrations in Spain in Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona, Cuenca, and the Canary Islands, as well as in San Diego and at Rancho La Puerta during our yearly festivities.

Inner Fitness: Retrain the Brain for Greater Joy, Connection and Purpose

Strengthen Your Mindset: The Foundation
The right mindset along with learning a few tools and strategies has everything to do with igniting our experience of joy, connection and purpose.

Build Your Capacity to ‘Take in the Good’
Gratitude is an emotion that relates to the ability to feel and express thankfulness and appreciation. Research shows that expressing gratitude improves mental, physical and relational health, happiness and well-being. Gratitude unlocks the door to forgiveness—which is often key to expanding the experience of inner freedom. Learn how to strengthen your capacity for gratitude and forgiveness.

How to Grow Your Self-Compassion
Loving Kindness or metta is about developing peace, harmony and mutual well-being within ourselves and with others. Through metta one learns to abandon bitterness and animosity and embrace goodwill. Metta, when practiced regularly, teaches unconditional self-love and love for others.

Strengthen Your Relationships Now
Learn to communicate more effectively with your partner, friends, family and everyone else in your life. Build the ability to listen generously and speak clearly from the heart— paving the way for true connection with others.

Discover Your Life Vision
Every day we have hundreds of choices to make about how we are going to show up in our lives. Without knowing where you are heading it is impossible to navigate life well or wisely. When clear about your personal vision, you are able to create an inner compass that informs your choices and actions going forward.

 

Dr. Randy Kamen is a psychologist, life coach, educator and author of her bestselling book, Behind the Therapy Door: Simple Strategies to Transform Your Life, She pioneered new territory in mind-body medicine at Boston University’s School of Medicine and Harvard Medical School.

Dr. Kamen leads global online programs, workshops and retreats for corporations, hospitals and academic institutions. She weaves together researched based skills and strategies for mind management, self-regulation, healthy relationships and living your personal vision in her unique systematic and transformational approach.

Dr. Kamen uses a process called Thera-Coaching in which she helps individuals gain understanding and resolution about their past in the service of moving forward and cultivating an intentional and purpose driven life.

She divides her time between her two favorite islands; Martha’s Vineyard and NYC. Randy cherishes her time with her two adult children and their budding families… and of course coming to Rancho.

Inner Fitness: Retrain the Brain for Greater Joy, Connection and Purpose

Strengthen Your Mindset: The Foundation
The right mindset along with learning a few tools and strategies has everything to do with igniting our experience of joy, connection and purpose.

Build Your Capacity to ‘Take in the Good’
Gratitude is an emotion that relates to the ability to feel and express thankfulness and appreciation. Research shows that expressing gratitude improves mental, physical and relational health, happiness and well-being. Gratitude unlocks the door to forgiveness—which is often key to expanding the experience of inner freedom. Learn how to strengthen your capacity for gratitude and forgiveness.

How to Grow Your Self-Compassion
Loving Kindness or metta is about developing peace, harmony and mutual well-being within ourselves and with others. Through metta one learns to abandon bitterness and animosity and embrace goodwill. Metta, when practiced regularly, teaches unconditional self-love and love for others.

Strengthen Your Relationships Now
Learn to communicate more effectively with your partner, friends, family and everyone else in your life. Build the ability to listen generously and speak clearly from the heart— paving the way for true connection with others.

Discover Your Life Vision
Every day we have hundreds of choices to make about how we are going to show up in our lives. Without knowing where you are heading it is impossible to navigate life well or wisely. When clear about your personal vision, you are able to create an inner compass that informs your choices and actions going forward.

 

 

Randy Kamen, EdD, is a psychologist, life-coach, and author of the bestseller Behind the Therapy Door: Simple Strategies to Transform Your Life. Dr. Kamen pioneered new territory in mind-body medicine and positive psychology at Harvard’s Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Boston University’s School of Medicine. She leads global, live online courses and workshops and runs women’s empowerment retreats on Martha’s Vineyard. Dr. Kamen is part-time faculty at Harvard Medical School where she has taught women’s leadership and writing, publishing, promoting your book. She appears on radio, television, print and online media outlets. Her blog can be found at DrRandyKamen.com and her regular FacebookLive Show, “Simple Strategies to Create Your Extraordinary Life” is Dr. Randy Kamen on Thursdays at noon ET.

Inner Fitness: Retrain the Brain for Greater Joy, Connection and Purpose

Strengthen Your Mindset: The Foundation
The right mindset along with learning a few tools and strategies has everything to do with igniting our experience of joy, connection and purpose.

Build Your Capacity to ‘Take in the Good’
Gratitude is an emotion that relates to the ability to feel and express thankfulness and appreciation. Research shows that expressing gratitude improves mental, physical and relational health, happiness and well-being. Gratitude unlocks the door to forgiveness—which is often key to expanding the experience of inner freedom. Learn how to strengthen your capacity for gratitude and forgiveness.

How to Grow Your Self-Compassion
Loving Kindness or metta is about developing peace, harmony and mutual well-being within ourselves and with others. Through metta one learns to abandon bitterness and animosity and embrace goodwill. Metta, when practiced regularly, teaches unconditional self-love and love for others.

Strengthen Your Relationships Now
Learn to communicate more effectively with your partner, friends, family and everyone else in your life. Build the ability to listen generously and speak clearly from the heart— paving the way for true connection with others.

Discover Your Life Vision
Every day we have hundreds of choices to make about how we are going to show up in our lives. Without knowing where you are heading it is impossible to navigate life well or wisely. When clear about your personal vision, you are able to create an inner compass that informs your choices and actions going forward.

 

 

Randy Kamen, EdD, is a psychologist, life-coach, and author of the bestseller Behind the Therapy Door: Simple Strategies to Transform Your Life. Dr. Kamen pioneered new territory in mind-body medicine and positive psychology at Harvard’s Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Boston University’s School of Medicine. She leads global, live online courses and workshops and runs women’s empowerment retreats on Martha’s Vineyard. Dr. Kamen is part-time faculty at Harvard Medical School where she has taught women’s leadership and writing, publishing, promoting your book. She appears on radio, television, print and online media outlets. Her blog can be found at DrRandyKamen.com and her regular FacebookLive Show, “Simple Strategies to Create Your Extraordinary Life” is Dr. Randy Kamen on Thursdays at noon ET.

Hands On Cooking Class with Theo Stephan

Theo 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, Wednesday, and Thursday at 4pm.

Tuesday Hands-On Cooking Class 4:00 PM Sign Up
Each class $125+tax. 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 Sign Up
Each class $125+tax. Class subject to change, check your weekly planner and schedule for updates. The maximum number of guests per class is 14.

Thursday Hands-On Cooking Class 4:00 PM Sign Up
Each class $125+tax. Class subject to change, check your weekly planner and schedule for updates. The maximum number of guests per class is 14.

 

 

Theodora (Theo) Stephan was the first to plant olive trees in Santa Barbara county, California, for Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) in 1996. She is celebrating her 24th harvest season this year and was awarded “Olive Oil Sommelier” (one of less than 300 in the world) in 2019. Theo’s brand, Global Gardens, offers 12 different varietal EVOO’s, 20 hand-crafted balsamic-style wine vinegars, organic snacks and a myriad of pantry items made from her formulas. She was the first in the US to create an olive oil subscription program. Educating people on the nuances of cooking and baking with fresh olive oil is a great passion of Theo’s. She specializes in creating full-flavored Mediterranean Diet (on which she was raised by Greek-American parents) cuisine. She has written two popular cookbooks and has been featured prominently in the Los Angeles Times, Sunset Magazine, Better Homes and Gardens, Food and Wine, Bon Appétit, Mother Earth, Home and Family TV show, Oprah, Martha Stewart blogs and many more.

Work is Life: Overcoming the Work-Life Balance Trade-off

Many of us experience work as something separate from life. Commonly referenced in the phrase “work-life balance,” this false dichotomy creates an endless and futile struggle of trading off priorities in life with priorities at work. What if work and life are not opposite “places” to spend your time, and we approached work as an essential element of living? Anchored in positive psychology and self-determination theory, John provides tips, techniques, and tools for managing your time and energy in a more holistic manner that leads to higher performance and deeper satisfaction.

During this presentation John will Introduce the Conscious Leadership framework that guides us to be more creative and courageous in our behavior and develop greater maturity and accountability for the way we choose to live our lives. Next, John will share his Be True workbook, which outlines a set of 4 developmental activities participants can follow to build a more integrated and aligned life. Truth is often thought of as an absolute form, but when conjugated as a verb, “truing”is an active process of aligning something to an ideal. Living your best life involves aligning all aspects of your experience in a holistic manner that works in concert, not a simple balance of trading off work and life activities.

Workshops: Each workshop will cover one of the sections in the Be True workbook

Growth Mindset. Develop a vision for your life that includes a complete set of thrive factors that make you feel fully human. Identify some essential activities that provide concrete, behavioral evidence that you are living the life you have visualized.

Everyday Presence. A simple form of meditation you can weave throughout your day to help keep you clear and grounded as life throws you bumps and twists that we must navigate.

Refined Self Awareness. Learn how to conduct a lifestyle audit and evaluate your behavior against a set of common traps that keep people from moving forward.

Make It Happen. Identify your “one thing” that you will place as your learning intention and use habit design to improve your chances of achieving your growth objective.

 

John Foster is an organization designer who helps people and organizations perform at their best. He has served many of the world’s most innovative companies helping them through transformation and scaling challenges. Along the way he’s held Chief People Officer roles at IDEO, Hulu, Thrive Market and TrueCar.

John founded Gamut HCD (Human Centered Design) as a platform to advise companies and build tools that help people learn and grow. He maintains a variety of relationships from short term projects to long term advisory and full-time leadership roles. He has deep expertise in psychology, organization behavior, leadership, and communication; and has spent thousands of hours facilitating off-sites and coaching leaders. John is working on a book called Start From Scratch to encourage broader interest in Human Centered Organizations.

Prior to his current career phase, John held significant HR leadership roles at Fidelity Investments, Levi Strauss, and Citibank, and started his career leading outdoor education and team building programs for schools and community organizations. He earned a M.Ed. in experiential learning from Colorado State University and a dual BA in Psychology and Communication from Miami University. He lives in California with his wife and 4 children and enjoys travel, playing guitar, and adventure sports.

LinkedIn Profile

Email: john@gamut.la

Web: www.gamut.la

Resource: Everyday Presence

Navigating the Menopausal Transition

While we grow in wisdom and confidence, we also may be challenged with hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, irritability, vaginal dryness, decreased libido and skin changes. Let’s discuss how to minimize discomforts, optimize wellbeing and make the most of this life stage

Perimenopause Symptoms and Management Part 1– the heat, the weight, the skin and the sleep

Perimenopause Symptoms and Management Part 2– pesky periods, mood changes and sexual health

Postmenopausal Symptoms and Management Part 1– the heat, the skin, the sleep

Postmenopausal Symptoms and Management Part 2– breast, bone and sexual health

Amanda P. Williams, MD, MPH, FACOG is a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist and strategic physician leader focused on leveraging virtual women’s health care and eliminating health disparities. She currently oversees clinical innovations for the California Maternal Quality Care Collaborative at Stanford University where she is adjunct faculty. In addition, she advises multiple digital women’s health endeavors. She is clinically based in the Kaiser Permanente, Northern California system, where until Summer ‘22 she led the maternity continuum across 15 medical centers. Dr. Williams’ publications have included: expansion of abortion access, contraception continuation, prenatal optimization, peripartum depression and minimally and non-invasive perimenopausal bleeding solutions

Body Barre Conditioning

These classes fuse Barre training, Ballet technique, Pilates exercises, and dynamic strength training. The combination of Barre, Ballet, and Pilates exercises designed to develop a strong, lean body.

This is a comprehensive and holistic approach to the body that can be used by anyone. Focus is placed on proper technique for better postural alignment, building muscle endurance and core power to improve balance, coordination and flexibility.

Exercises include warm-up, floor exercises, standing barre and center movement patterns. Equipment includes light weights, bands, gliders and Pilates balls. This full body conditioning is Ideal for all fitness levels designed to help you improve your strength, mobility and athletic fitness.

 

Joan Wenson is an internationally recognized fitness expert, award-winning athlete, and former classical ballet dancer. She has extensive experience in curriculum development and multimedia presentations for educational training programs. She has accumulated over 30 years of formal ballet, modern dance and fitness training, while also teaching for more than 30 years in the health and fitness industry. She is currently Director of Dance at Dance Arts of Orange County: www.danceartsoc.com

Good and Good for You

You will learn:
• Real-life good and good-for-you tips for wellness and healthy eating.
• How to incorporate doable stress-reducing techniques into your life.
• Brain hack techniques for lasting change with habits vs willpower.
• Chocolate is the answer to everything. 

It’s down to Earth can-do with a heaping side of inspiration.

 

 

Virginia Willis is a James Beard award-winning cookbook author, French-trained chef, television personality, content creator, speaker, and social media influencer. 

A self-described “sturdy girl” since childhood, Virginia’s career of cooking, eating, and drinking plus work and relationship challenges created a high-risk lifestyle with inevitable mental and physical health problems. Stressed, depressed, and faced with the need to lose 65+ pounds she reached a point of desperation and set out to change it. 

Unwilling to give up taste and a firm belief that food can be good and good-for-you, flavor became a major part of her weight loss journey. Virginia successfully lost the weight without fad diets and has now kept it off for over two years. 

Virginia will share chef-secrets of her health journey, including her “Life Guardrails” approach to physical and mental health. 

“If a French-trained, Southern chef can do it, you can, too.” – Chef Virginia Willis

Pilates with Mandy Wright

Mandy Wright, is a distinguished Pilates teacher with a wealth of experience. She is recognized as Senior Faculty by BASI (Body Arts and Science International). Currently residing in Santa Barbara, California, Mandy owns and operates “La Playa Pilates” in the beautiful community of Montecito. She is a devoted mother of three grown sons and holds a black belt in Taekwondo, showcasing her dedication to physical fitness.

Mandy’s expertise extends beyond Pilates, as she is also a certified spin instructor and has ventured around the globe to share her knowledge and passion for fitness. Her commitment to the field is underscored by her qualifications as a NASM CPT (National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer) and her proficiency as a Fascial Stretch Therapist and Myofascial Release Therapist.

Mandy Wright’s journey in the world of fitness has been marked by dedication and a love for her work, which continues to inspire and transform the lives of those she teaches.

Pilates with Mandy Wright

Mandy Wright, is a distinguished Pilates teacher with a wealth of experience. She is recognized as Senior Faculty by BASI (Body Arts and Science International). Currently residing in Santa Barbara, California, Mandy owns and operates “La Playa Pilates” in the beautiful community of Montecito. She is a devoted mother of three grown sons and holds a black belt in Taekwondo, showcasing her dedication to physical fitness.

Mandy’s expertise extends beyond Pilates, as she is also a certified spin instructor and has ventured around the globe to share her knowledge and passion for fitness. Her commitment to the field is underscored by her qualifications as a NASM CPT (National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer) and her proficiency as a Fascial Stretch Therapist and Myofascial Release Therapist.

Mandy Wright’s journey in the world of fitness has been marked by dedication and a love for her work, which continues to inspire and transform the lives of those she teaches.

The Magic, Myths and Magnetism of Art

Giants of 20th Century Mexican Mural Art
Mexico has long been a magnet for an international community of avant-garde intellectuals, writers, poets, and artists, but it is Rivera, Orozco, and Siqueiros who would shape an artistic revolution and an imaginative new vision, bringing both fame and notoriety as they went on to influence generations of Mexican artists, while also profoundly impacting American art at mid-century. Join Diane Arkin to explore, discover, and discuss this extraordinary cultural and artistic legacy of Mexico.

Deciphering the Day of the Dead (Dia de Muertos)
With roots dating back thousands of years, the Day of the Dead is one of the most important celebrations in Mexico. It has become a blend of Catholic tradition and Mexican mysticism, commemorating death as another element of life, and as a way to remember and honor loved ones who have passed. But the Day of the Dead is not grim. It is a powerful affirmation of life and creativity with its rich and complex traditions that continue to filter into popular culture throughout the world. Come and explore the purpose of the holiday, specific Mexican artists like Posada who popularized it, where it originated, who celebrates it, how it is celebrated, its relation to other holidays, and how it remains a symbol of Mexican national and ethnic identity.

Spanish and Mexican Surrealism: The Magic of Miro, Dilemma of Dali, and Fantasies of Frida
The dream imagery, personal sign languages, auras of fantasy, and subconscious feelings that surrealist artists explored are all evidenced in the paintings of Miro and Dali, two of the best-known 20th-century Spanish surrealist painters. But we also find these elements in the extraordinary art of Frida Kahlo, a truly iconic Mexican surrealist painter who forged a unique and original type of art filled with personal symbolism. These artists took separate paths to express their shared interests, with Miro creating child-like, carefree, abstract, and poetic images, with flamboyant Dali pursuing painting with hallucinatory impact and power to shock, and with Kahlo virtually re-inventing self-portraiture as autobiography. Join Diane Arkin as we unravel the mysteries in the surrealist art of these three giants of modernism.

Enjoying Modern Art
Modern art can baffle, challenge, irritate, and delight us. By throwing away past traditions, artists like Van Gogh, Gauguin, Cezanne, Picasso, Miro, Rauschenberg, Warhol, Wiley, and Kim experimented with new ideas and materials to revolutionize the art experience. With an emphasis on 19th, 20th, and 21st century art we will track the hand of the artist, the growing emphasis on the psychological, and the movement toward abstraction. Join Diane Arkin for a session of careful looking and lively discussion aimed at discovering, exploring, and enjoying modern art.

 

Diane ArkinFor VIP’s, dignitaries, superstars, and celebrities, Diane Arkin, retired Senior Lecturer at the National Gallery of Art, was the scholar routinely called on to provide engaging, entertaining, and thought-provoking presentations on subjects spanning treasures from the medieval period through the most challenging art of today. She also lectured nationally on museum education, trends in theory and practice, active learning strategies, and museums as unique learning environments. Prior to coming to the National Gallery of Art, Diane served as Curator of Education at the Corcoran Gallery of Art and College of Art and Design in Washington, DC, and as Director of Education at the Walters Art Museum in Baltimore. Diane’s work as a Program Coordinator in both the Resident Associate Program and the International Study Tours Division of the Smithsonian Institution included years of lecturing both domestically and internationally on a broad range of art historical subjects.

The Power of Purpose

Bestselling author, life coach, and speaker, Richard Leider brings the power of purpose to life helping us to find meaning, live longer, better.

 

To get a life, get a purpose! Purpose is not a luxury for the few, but is accessible to all and is fundamental to health, healing, happiness, and longevity, adding 7-10 years to your life. Purpose gives us the will not just to live but to live long and well. Legendary life coach Richard Leider offers a Purpose Checkup to help us unlock the power of purpose and inspire us to get out of bed in the morning with intention and joy.

 

HOW TO AGE
Based on his latest book, WHO DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW OLD?, this session will offer relevant stories and practices to help us grow whole and navigate the path of purposeful aging.

 

HOW TO UNLOCK YOUR PURPOSE
Why do you get up in the morning? Based on his perennial bestseller, THE POWER OF PURPOSE, this session will help us answer the question, do a PURPOSE CHECKUP, and unlock the power of purpose to find more meaning in our everyday lives.

 

HOW TO LIVE THE GOOD LIFE
Are you living in the place you belong, with the people you love, doing the work you enjoy, with a sense of purpose? Based on his classic bestseller, REPACKING YOUR BAGS, this session will help us to answer this question by taking the GOOD LIFE Inventory and learning new ways to lighten our loads for the good life.
 

Richard Leider is founder of Inventure – The Purpose Company, where the mission is to help people to “unlock the power of purpose” and answer the question: “Why do you get up in the morning?” An international bestselling author of eleven books including three bestsellers which have sold over one million copies, his latest book, Who Do You Want to Be When You Grow Old?: The Path of Purposeful Aging is the defining book on purposeful aging. The Power of Purpose and Repacking Your Bags are considered classics in the personal growth field. Widely viewed as a pioneer of the global purpose movement, his work is regularly featured in many media sources, and his PBS Special – “The Power of Purpose” – was viewed by millions of people. He has taken his purpose message to all 50 states, Canada, and 4 continents, and he has advised everyone from AARP to the National Football League to the U.S. State Department.richardleider.com

The Techy Traveler

The Techy Traveler
Technology for Travel – Be prepared with the right technology. Devices, apps, and tricks to guide you around the world and help you stay connected with home.

Security While Traveling
How to make sure your devices, data, and home are safe throughout your travels.

Challenge the Techy Traveler
Bring your devices and questions for advice on getting the most out of your technology.

 

Brett Mitchell is a self-employed technology consultant. For over 20 years, he has specialized in educating his clients about the very latest in technology, security, devices, and how to make everything work together. There are many misconceptions about technology, and Brett can help make sense of it all. Brett has traveled and worked remotely from over 100 countries around the world, staying connected and solving problems from almost anywhere. With an engineering background and a passion for adventure, Brett has perfected the skills of seeing the world while staying in communication. He will share his travel tips and secrets to help you do the same.

Brett will offer a three-part presentation series titled The Techy Traveler, in which he will reveal how to efficiently and easily use the latest technology for travel. In the first part, you will learn how to make the most of your devices, get the best travel apps, and make sure everything works when you arrive. He will detail the newest travel gadgets, cellphone plans and data passes, the best booking sites and travel apps, and help with navigation, translation, and communication.

Next, he will talk about security, primarily as it relates to international travel. Hackers and scammers are more sophisticated than ever and Brett will show you some of the best tips to stay safe. These include reducing risks while browsing the internet, connecting to public wifi, crossing international borders, protecting your data abroad, and discuss other common scams and dangers to be aware of. He will also teach you about VPNs, when they should be used, and how to monitor the security of your home while you are away.

In the final part of The Techy Traveler series, Brett will host an open discussion where you can bring your own devices and unique questions. All of Brett’s presentations encourage questions and guest interaction, but in this presentation you can inquire about additional topics related to travel and technology that may not have already been answered. Try to stump The Techy Traveler and share your own travel technology experiences as Brett offers his expert advice.

The Healing Power of Music

The Healing Power of Music
Join Musician and Music Therapist Gayle Cloud, MT-BC, NMT for a fun and interactive evening of music! Participants will learn how engagement in music can help heal the body, mind and spirit. The group will engage in the healing power of music through singing, group songwriting and simple drumming.  No musical experience needed!

Music Engagement for Everyday Stress
World unrest, the ongoing pandemic and economic concerns have been stressful for everyone. Now it’s time to get a groove on, transcend our stress and embrace new possibilities! Join Musician and Music Therapist Gayle Cloud, MT-BC, NMT for this fun and interactive class, using musical activities to open our hearts and reclaim our joy. Participants will engage in music to help with self-healing, social connections, creative expression and overall well-being. No musical experience needed!

Drumming & Chanting for Wellbeing
Drum and chant your way through this fun and interactive class with Musician and Music Therapist Gayle Cloud, MT-BC, NMT. Participants will learn simple drumming techniques while engaging in some affirmative and inspirational chants. Participants will collaborate on an original chant that best reflects the group’s sentiment on that day. No musical experience needed!

The Brain Benefits of Music
Music is the ideal way to stretch our mind power! Join Musician and Music Therapist Gayle Cloud, MT-BC, NMT for this fun and interactive class designed to get our brains moving. Participants will learn techniques that use music to help with memory, body movement, communication and overall healing. No musical experience needed!

Drumming & Chanting for Wellbeing (Second Session)
Drum and chant your way through this fun and interactive class with Musician and Music Therapist Gayle Cloud, MT-BC, NMT. Participants will learn simple drumming techniques while engaging in some affirmative and inspirational chants. Participants will collaborate on an original chant that best reflects the group’s sentiment on that day. No musical experience needed!

 

Gayle Cloud is the director of Seattle-based Cloud Music Therapy, LLC.  Prior to becoming a nationally board-certified, neurologic music therapist, she was an international performer, musician, singer/songwriter and recording artist. Gayle Cloud is known for her ability to use intuitive, diverse and easy musical activities to engage participants in transformative healing sessions and creative expression. Her career as a professional musician was launched in Paris and NYC, where she performed and recorded both jazz and her original music. She now practices as a neurologic music therapist in medical, corporate and private settings. Gayle has received notable media coverage for her therapeutic use of music. Having lived and worked internationally, she has a keen understanding of the diverse needs of participants, adapting each session to mirror the distinct personality of each group. gaylecloudmusic@icloud.com

Ukulele Classes

Beginner ‘Ukulele Class
This class is designed for beginners to the ‘ukulele, a small, four-stringed instrument.    In this one hour class, you’ll learn how to hold and play the instrument, as well as all the elements necessary to play a simple song. No prior musical experience is needed.  This class will be limited to 6 people and will require advanced signup.  ‘Ukuleles will be provided. Come have an hour of fun that will exercise your hands and brain.

Intermediate ‘Ukulele Class
This class is designed for people who have had some experience playing the ‘ukulele and know at least four basic chords. In this one-hour class, you’ll learn a strumming pattern that is applicable to many kinds of music and we’ll apply that strum to at least one song during the class. This class will be limited to 6 people and will require advanced signup.

If you take one of the Beginner ‘Ukulele Classes earlier in the week, you may also sign up for this class if you’d like to learn even more before week’s end.

Private ‘Ukulele Lessons
If you are a beginner feeling shy about learning in a group setting, or a more experienced player who would like a special lesson to fine tune your skills, feel free to book a private lesson with Pamela by contacting the concierge.

 

 

An award-winning singer/songwriter, with three albums on Columbia and Epic as well as two more independently released albums to her credit, Pamela Polland’s ever increasing list of musical credentials reads like a veritable Who’s Who of artists from all points on the musical compass. Over 50 years in the music business, this seasoned professional has both performed and recorded with such luminaries as Bonnie Raitt, Kenny Loggins, Jackson Browne, Van Morrison, Ry Cooder, Taj Mahal, John Denver, and a host of others. In 1970, Pamela joined the famed Mad Dogs & Englishmen Tour with Joe Cocker and Leon Russell, appearing on the resulting album as well as in the movie. Her songs have been recorded by, among others, Linda Ronstadt, Helen Reddy, The Byrds, Anita Carter and Bobby Bare. Pamela has also won numerous awards including 2 coveted gold records. After decades of success as performer, recording artist, composer and vocal coach, Pamela shifted focus to her life-long love of the Hawaiian culture. Living on Maui, she has studied ‘ukulele and Hawaiian music with Hall Of Fame recipient Kahauanu Lake and Walter Kawai‘ae‘a, as well as the study of hula and Hawaiian language. Pamela brings all her decades of experience and expertise to her online vocal and ‘ukulele lessons, and is delighted to share her love of the ‘ukulele at Ranch La Puerta.