Until recently, I never understood the appeal of escaping to the desert for a summer vacation. Why swap a mild L.A. summer for a dry and brown furnace intent on sucking every drop of moisture out of your hair, skin and throat?

In the middle of L.A.’s “June gloom,” I left behind our 70-degree weather for a scorching high of 109 in Palm Desert, which averages about 300 days of sunshine per year.

On the drive, I consoled myself with imaginings of sparkling lagoons and spa tubs, crystal bowls and chimes and the feel of cool hotel-room air on my skin. This was, after all, a solo retreat to one of Palm Desert’s oases: JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa. 

I wanted to see how Spa Desert Springs incorporates treatments, wellness tech and practices inspired by those who live in the world’s blue zones — five regions across the globe where researchers have found people live exceptionally long, active lives.

Who doesn’t want to live to 100, especially if they can do so in reasonably good health? I hope to still be dancing, writing up a storm, making new friends of all ages and seeing new-to-me parts of the world well into my 10^th decade. 

A girl can dream. Especially when she’s on a solo retreat.

Best Desert Advice: Hydrate, Eat Light, Embrace the Night

I didn’t need to run the A/C for the first part of my drive, but I switched it on as my car floated into an invisible cave of heat that had me reaching for my water bottle. It was already warm. Luckily, I had stopped in Rowland Heights for two throat soothers: a jelly-lychee drink and coconut-pineapple juice, so I sipped on those until I pulled into the resort’s self-parking garage. 

I decided to leave my bags in the car and relax in my room with no agenda until the sun said its final goodbye. On the way to the checkout desk, I saw a table holding two large containers of ice water — one with orange slices and one with cucumbers. I drank a glass of each. 

The lobby was buzzing with activity. Folks were seated around the bar at Aquifer65 (which serves California cuisine, bar bites and sushi), watching the FIFA World Cup. A few families with children were waiting in line to board boats for the sunset cruise around the resort’s lakes. The boat rides are $5-$10, depending on the day and time. 

Set on 450 acres of desert gardens, lakes and mountain views, the hotel is Palm Desert’s largest resort, with 884 guest rooms.

From my 7^th-floor room balcony, the sun was casting a pink light across the jagged edges of the San Jacinto Mountains. I could see couples and families dining on Rockwood Grill’s patio to my left, lit-up boats sailing across the wide lake in front of me and people soaking in the cool waters of the three Oasis pools tucked in the center of the lake. 

The sound of water runs throughout the resort, a soundtrack that seems to cool things off. A little.

Once the sun was nowhere to be found, I slipped out of my room and descended to the walking path surrounding the lake, familiarizing myself with the location of the restaurants and my main reason for being here: the spa. Before I left, I stashed my water bottle and the hotel’s courtesy waters in my room’s fridge — treats to look forward to after my daring venture into the hot, hot night. 

I took at peek inside Mikado Japanese Steakhouse, which offers a classic teppanyaki experience where the entertainment is as much a part of the main course as the food. Guests sat around a sizzling grill while chefs put on a lively, family-friendly show. The menu features steak, chicken and seafood cooked right in front of you, along with sushi options if you want something lighter. I backed out, deciding to save this bit of theater for a return visit with family. 

After locating the spa, I circled back to the hotel to check out a popular family venue: JW Entertainment Zone, a 12,000-square-foot space that just so happens to be California’s largest resort arcade. You’ll find Pac-Man, Skee-Ball, duckpin bowling, simulators, racing games and many more machines lighting up the space. There’s also a movie lounge with beanbags to stretch out on. The film of the night was “A Goofy Movie.” I smiled at a little girl tugging on her father’s hand. “Let’s watch the movie,” she said, and he followed her lead without protest. 

Like most of us parents when we get to treat ourselves to some me-time, I thought of my own son. Even at 19, he’d love it here, heading straight for what he considered “vintage” games.  

By the time I retrieved my bags and returned to my room, the temperature had tiptoed to 86 degrees. I ran my bubble bath in the deep oval tub flanked by shutters exposing it to the room. Under this additional sound of water, I sipped my refrigerated H20 and nibbled on a yellowtail roll I picked up from Aquifer65. 

It was a perfect bath and dinner. In fact, Japanese cuisine, seafood and salad turned out to my only nutritional sources during my entire stay. Light, tasty, satisfying and, most importantly, cool.

It’s Spa Time

Like many people around the world, I was mesmerized by Netflix’s “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones.” In the early 2000s, National Geographic explorer Dan Buettner set out to decode the secrets of longevity. His expeditions unveiled the world’s five “blue zones” — Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Ikaria, Greece; Nicoya, Costa Rica and Loma Linda, Calif. — areas with the highest rates of living centenarians.

Buettner dubbed the habits and characteristics these regions share as the “Power 9” — from natural movement to having a strong purpose to being part of the “right tribe” for you.

After bingeing the docuseries, I was determined to increase my practice of these habits. First, I scoured grocery stores looking for the “magic” purple Japanese yam featured in the series. And while I’m a bonafide gym rat, I push myself to walk in nature, including a weekly walk with a big, all-ages neighborhood group. We stop to point at flowers, coo over a gaggle of front-yard roosters, eat mulberries from Dan’s wild “sidewalk farm” in our dense urban neighborhood.

Still, I’m always on the hunt to find additional ways to effectively reduce my stress levels, and lying face-down for a treatment at Spa Desert Springs is an activity I would gladly do daily. Each experience blends local tradition, natural elements and longevity-focused practices inspired by the blue zones, Spa Director Dawn Ferraro told me during our tour.

Palm Desert’s largest spa, it spans 38,000 square feet and includes a shop and Spa Bistro, which serves light and refreshing meals representing the culinary culture of each blue zone.

 “Live to 100” highlighted how Okinawa has long been nicknamed “Land of the Immortals.” Feeling inspired, I signed up for the Okinawa treatment, a nourishing body wrap that blends hand-harvested rice, clay, seaweed and botanicals to hydrate, brighten and smooth skin while reducing dullness and signs of aging. 

My appointment was set for late afternoon. Early that morning, I ate a salad for breakfast on Rockwood Grill’s patio, watching the black swans glide across the lake. My son FaceTimed me, and I was not annoyed in the least to share my time with him. I pointed the phone toward the lake. “That’s beautiful, Mom,” he said. “I’m so happy for you.”

At lunchtime, I sauntered over to Spa Bistro, choosing the Okinawa Bowl (sweet potato glass noodles, shaved carrots, cilantro, miso-honey vinaigrette and chili crunch topped with a hot-smoked salmon fillet) and a blackberry cocktail, remembering not to overeat. My taste buds were tingly and satiated, a foreshadowing of my treatment.

In the candlelit, calm music-filled Couple’s Spa Suite featuring two plush massage tables and a massive tub, Miranda worked miracles on my sore body, gently wrapping it in the rice mixture that included uplifting scents of peppermint, lime and eucalyptus. “Any problem areas I should know about?” she asked, and I told her I’d recently been to the doctor for foot pain. My podiatrist, in fact, was suggesting the impossible: That I take at least a monthlong break from my beloved Zumba classes. 

As Miranda massaged away the hurt, the prospect of cutting back my seven-day-a-week workout schedule seemed a little less anxiety producing. Why have I so doggedly worked out past these chronic pains? I thought. And why don’t I reward my muscles, joints and bones more with recovery? 

The 90-minute treatment included a cooling rice bath and, to my delight, a rubber ducky! Who knew a childhood toy could be a meditative device? As I pushed the ducky towards my feet and watched it float back toward me, I was entranced. Deep in a zone that maybe, just maybe, was blue.

The spa also has gender-separate and co-ed relaxation lounges, a spa wardrobe, an aromatic hammam, Finnish sauna and a Turkish steam room. After my treatment, I had about an hour until closing time. I chose to spend it in the spa’s first interactive co-ed wellness lounge, which integrates wellness with technology and features 15 state-of-the-art lounge chairs designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. 

While I’ll never submit to a robot giving me a body treatment, I sank happily into the MindSync Chair, reclined and donned headphones. Ferraro chose the “emotional reset” option on the screen. The music, designed to synchronize brainwaves, made me feel as though I was simultaneously flying and grounded. After the first session stopped, I hit “soul soak” and had no idea I’d fallen asleep until an employee woke me. 

The spa was closing. It was time to go.

“Oh my goodness! So sorry,” I yelped.

 “Don’t be embarrassed,” Ferraro said. “It just means you needed the rest, and Miranda did a great job.” 

I asked her what I should check out in town, and she launched into how beautiful the Shops at El Paseo are at night. Mid-sentence, though, she changed her recommendation. “You know, the best thing might be for you to go to your room, order room service and rest for the rest of the night.”

She was right. I don’t even remember how I got into bed. 

Rising with the Desert Sun

I rose just before dawn the next day and went to sit out on the balcony. It was only 83 degrees, and the breeze did not yet feel like invisible fire. I sat down on the chair, then gasped when I looked across the table to discover that I was not alone. 

A mourning dove was perched on the chair opposite me, her head bowed, her chest inflated like a balloon. She side-eyed me. I left her alone. We watched the sun begin to wake up the mountains.

As the light grew stronger, the dove began to move. Fluffing her feathers to wake them up, to get herself ready for the day. Your tai chi, I thought. 

When she finally flew away, I stood and did a few stretches of my own, then went down to visit the Chilean flamingos, a delightful draw for early risers like me and the families with children who would make their way down later, perhaps after a breakfast of pancakes and sausage.

While my purpose in the desert was to find respite through the resort’s innovative wellness offerings, I appreciated that the property also creates meaningful ways for people of all ages to connect.

The promise of blue zones, Buettner says in “Live to 100,” is “to get every good year we can get out of this body of ours.” And that includes purposeful time alone and with our right tribes.

 Family Fun on the Resort 

• Families can enjoy 5 pools at JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa. 
• Play golf on 2 Ted Robinson-designed championship golf courses.
• The Desert Springs Tennis Club has 8 pickleball courts. 
• Guests have complimentary access to the 18-hole mini championship putting course, with clubs available for all ages.
• Take electric boat rides across the resort’s lakes and waterways. These set sail from the lobby. The resort’s lakes are home to swans, flamingos and other aquatic wildlife cared for by the on-site conservation team. 
• The 12,000-square-foot JW Entertainment Zone is California’s largest resort arcade, featuring Pac-Man, Skee-Ball, duckpin bowling, simulators, racing games and more. 
• The JW Family Passport program offers activities for all ages, including nature walks, family yoga, flamingo feedings, scavenger hunts, trivia nights and ice cream socials, with prizes for participation.
• The resort’s Hot Shoppe serves nostalgic treats including root beer floats and ice cream.
• The hotel’s “Paws & Pamper” program for VIPs (Very Important Pets) offers dog-friendly in-room amenities and pet spa items such as lavender blankets and CBD treats for four-legged guests.
• Access to bike rentals, fish feeding and group fitness (18 and up).
• To view and book resort activities, visit JW Marriott Desert Springs activities calendar.

Cassandra Lane is a mom, author and editor-in-chief of L.A. Parent. 

The post Why JW Marriott Desert Springs Is the Perfect Palm Desert Getaway appeared first on L.A. Parent.

More than 80 young people took to the field recently  for “Goals for Good,” a community youth soccer event hosted by Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles (BGCMLA) in partnership with Herbalife at the organization’s Challengers Club in South Los Angeles. 

The afternoon brought together local youth ages 7 to 14 for soccer drills, skill-building activities and mentorship, capping the club’s spring soccer programming as it heads into a new summer season. 

During the event, the Herbalife Family Foundation presented BGCMLA with a $45,000 grant to support youth nutrition and wellness programming and expand access to safe, structured summer activities for young people and families across the community. 

The grant reflects the broader mission of the Herbalife Family Foundation, which works to improve the lives of children and families through better nutrition and wellness. Each year, the Foundation reaches approximately 200,000 children across 62 countries. 

Participants ran drills and games led by USC student athletes and community volunteers. LA Galaxy midfielder Troy Elgersma made a special appearance alongside team mascot Cozmo and members of the LA Galaxy Star Squad, joining the youth for activities and photos. 

“At Herbalife and the Herbalife Family Foundation, we believe that helping young people build healthy habits today can create stronger communities tomorrow,” said Ibi Montesino, managing director of Herbalife’s North America region. “We’re proud to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles and invest in programs that help young people thrive.”

The event was part of Herbalife’s Fuel Like Ronaldo campaign, which is rooted in the company’s longtime partnership with soccer icon Cristiano Ronaldo and encourages young people and families to build everyday habits around nutrition, hydration and movement, inspired by the routines of elite athletes. 

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They’re fast, fun and everywhere. E-bikes have become the must-have ride for many tweens and teens, but before parents commit to buying, they should understand the real safety risks of these vehicles that have speeds much faster than traditional bikes. We spoke with a Cedars-Sinai trauma surgeon about what families need to know before that first ride.

Galinos Barmparas, M.D., FACS, is a father of two boys and the medical director of trauma in the Jim and Eleanor Randall Department of Surgery at Cedars-Sinai. 

Sneak peek: What age is safe for an e-bike? Barmparas recommends waiting until the later teen years, depending on maturity, judgment and road awareness.

Have you noticed a growth in the popularity of e-bikes among tweens and young teens?

Yes, absolutely. A few years ago, these were still relatively niche products — expensive, somewhat limited and not nearly as common among kids and teenagers. Now, they are more affordable, the battery life is better, and they have become part of everyday life for many middle and high school students. Kids use them to get to school, sports and social activities. And frankly, it is not hard to understand the appeal. At that age, kids want independence, freedom and mobility, and e-bikes offer all of that in a very immediate way. If I were that age, I would probably want one, too. 

Have you noticed a surge in e-bike-related accidents? 

We are undoubtedly seeing this trend both nationally and here locally, in both adults and children. Several Southern California centers have reported a sharp rise over a very short period. These numbers, which are probably underreported, reflect the growing popularity of these vehicles, but they also highlight the very real safety concerns that come with them. These are not simple bicycle falls. E-bikes can reach speeds of almost 30 mph, and many young riders are not prepared for how quickly they accelerate or how differently they handle at those speeds, especially when braking or turning.

What are you seeing as a trauma surgeon?

What we are seeing as trauma surgeons is often much more serious than what parents picture when they think of a typical bicycle fall. The injury patterns are often closer to what we see in higher-energy crashes: significant road rash, fractures of the wrist, forearm and clavicle and, most concerning, brain and facial injuries. A child who goes over the handlebars at 20 to 25 mph without a properly fitted helmet can be in a genuinely dangerous situation. We are also seeing crashes involving cars, pedestrians and fixed objects. And this is because the speed of these bikes can outpace a young rider’s judgment, reaction time and ability to control the bike, especially when braking or turning.

We have heard from parents who feel that they can’t say “no” to an e-bike because all of their child’s friends have one. How can parents better navigate this difficult situation?

As a parent, I understand how difficult this can be. Many families feel torn between legitimate safety concerns and the worry that their child will feel left out socially. But this is exactly when parents need to shift the conversation away from popularity and toward safety. An e-bike is not a toy; it is a motorized vehicle that can travel fast enough to cause a serious, even life-changing injury. Parents should feel comfortable saying no if they are not confident their child is ready. It is also worth talking with other parents in the friend group, because many may share the same concerns, and a shared approach is often much easier and more effective than one parent trying to hold the line alone. For some families, a reasonable middle ground may be a lower-speed model under close supervision, with clear rules and formal safety training.

What age do you think is safe for an e-bike?

Practically speaking, I would not recommend e-bikes for most tweens. A more reasonable threshold is for older teens, and even then, only if the rider is mature, follows rules consistently and is using an age-appropriate bike. In California, riders must be at least 16 to operate a Class 3 e-bike, which is the faster category that can reach speeds of up to 28 mph, and Class 3 riders are required to wear a helmet. More important than age alone, though, is readiness. Parents should ask whether their child can reliably handle speed, traffic, distraction and split-second decision-making. If the child is impulsive, easily distracted, ignores rules or has limited road awareness, then the answer should be no — or at least, not yet.

Safety rules for every rider

Several are non-negotiable in my view:

• Helmet for every single ride, no exceptions. And it needs to be the right helmet. A standard bicycle helmet is not designed for the speeds an e-bike can reach. A multisport or motorcycle-certified helmet appropriate for the speed class of the bike is recommended.
• Wrist guards and knee/elbow pads, particularly for younger or less experienced riders. The natural instinct when falling is to put your hands out, so protecting those structures matters.
• Bright, visible clothing and lights, day and night. E-bikes are faster than cars expect cyclists to be, and visibility is a true safety issue.Absolutely no earbuds or phone use while riding.A conversation about traffic law. Many kids don’t know that e-bikes are subject to the same rules of the road as bicycles. In California, there are specific regulations about which class of e-bike a minor can operate without a license.
• Also: Establish a defined, agreed-upon riding area and routes that are reviewed by the parents first.

Practice e-bike riding first

Beyond the safety equipment, I would emphasize two things:

• First, the child should practice in a safe, controlled environment, such as an empty parking lot or other quiet area, before ever riding on a public road. They need to learn how the bike accelerates, how long it takes to stop and how it handles when turning. 
• Second, if a formal riding lesson or safety course is available, I think that is a very good idea. The League of American Bicyclists and some local organizations offer these.

Any other thoughts you would like to share?

It is very important to understand that the injury severity we see with e-bikes isn’t primarily about recklessness, but rather about speed and physics. A well-meaning, careful kid who misjudges a curb or gets surprised by a car door can sustain a very serious injury at e-bike speeds that they would have walked away from on a conventional bike. The margin for error is smaller, and that is worth taking seriously — regardless of how responsible your child generally is. 

E-bikes are here to stay. Trying to ban them makes no sense and, frankly, isn’t the point. The goal is not to eliminate them, but to make sure we are raising kids who are prepared to ride them safely. That means the right age, the right training, the right equipment and parents who are paying attention.

The post Is Your Child Ready for an E-Bike? Safety Tips for Parents appeared first on L.A. Parent.

Los Angeles families can soon shop fresh, local and Black-owned — right from a farmer’s market on wheels. Prosperity Market is launching its new fleet of solar-powered mobile trailers on April 4, bringing farm-fresh produce, pantry staples and chef-driven meals directly to neighborhoods across the city. Part food truck, part farmers market, these 48-foot trailers spotlight Black farmers, food producers and chefs while expanding access to healthy food in communities that need it most.

Black-owned businesses include Ghost Town Oats, The Farmer Ken and Gloria’s Shito, plus a rotating roster of L.A.’s best chefs taking over the trailers’ kitchens. Co-founders Kara Still and Carmen Dianne envisioned the trailers as farmer’s-markets-on-wheels, and unveiled their design of the first solar-powered and electric trailer at the 2023 LA Auto Show. Since then, Prosperity Market has popped up at iconic L.A. venues such as The Original Farmers Market and the Melrose Trading Post. Prosperity Market will announce the trailer’s upcoming schedule following the launch event, which will include weekly stops across Los Angeles. Follow @prosperity.market on social media for the most updated information.

On Saturday, April 4 (11 a.m.-3 p.m.), Prosperity Market will celebrate the official kickoff of the regular trailer schedule with a pop-up market at Earle’s on Crenshaw (3864 Crenshaw Blvd. in Los Angeles). The trailer will be stocked with products and produce from Prosperity Market’s vendors and farmers, and the kitchen will feature Chef John Cleveland of Post & Beam, bringing back the beloved restaurant’s menu for a limited time. Hosted by Tammi Mac of KJLH, the event will also feature a wine bar by 1010 Wine & Events, coffee by Ora Cafe, a STEAM kids area by Teach to Reach, games by Love, Peace, Spades, music by DJ Myah Moves and cooking demos by Chef Sharon Graves of BLVD Kitchen. 

The first trailer was made possible in 2022 by a  $100k+ crowdfund (with additional support from Jrue and Lauren Holiday’s JLH Social Impact Fund), with two additional trailers funded by a generous contribution from music industry legend Dr. Dre. Through Dr. Dre’s donation, Prosperity Market’s fiscal sponsor SIMA is also able to provide nearly 6,000 young African women with professional training in health, education and entrepreneurship across 48 countries in Africa, through a collaboration with Nigeria-based leadership institute, LEAP Africa.  

The post Mobile Farmers Market Launches in Los Angeles with Fresh Local Food appeared first on L.A. Parent.

During a recent self-care retreat in a West Athens garden in Los Angeles, the evening sun slipped through an umbrella of trees, lighting up a corner of the garden where guests had been instructed to choose plants that spoke to them.

Once the women returned to their tables, Barbara Lawson, owner of Redondo Beach-based Meet Me in the Dirt, guided them through a plant meditation that included ripping their beautiful plants from their pots and using their fingers to rake away clinging dirt. “Hold your plant up high and examine the roots,” Lawson told them. After gazing at the vulnerable roots, they sunk their hands into mounds of loose, loamy black soil, using it to replant their greenery into brand-new pots.

 Throughout the meditation, Lawson encouraged the women to reflect on what in their lives they were ready to release and where they were willing to start anew. This intentional approach of engaging with plants, nature and gardening to promote stress relief and encourage healing falls under the realm of horticultural therapy. As spring approaches, rediscovering the healing power of tending to plants feels especially resonant. 

This year’s spring equinox falls on March 20, and if the new year didn’t provide the fresh start you’d hoped for, do not fret. Some cultures celebrate spring as the beginning of the year (Nowruz is the Persian New Year, for example) — and many uphold it as a symbol of rebirth and triumph over struggle, a fitting metaphor for plant life and what we learn from it.

The mental health benefits of nature

In his book “With People in Mind: Design and Management for Everyday Nature,” psychology professor Stephen Kaplan discusses how nature can counteract prolonged directed attention fatigue, a temporary mental exhaustion from overusing your brain’s ability to focus and filter distractions, which leads to increased irritability, impulsivity, difficulty concentrating and poor decision-making. 

There are inherent healing properties in the soil beneath our feet, research shows. Mycobacterium vaccae is a soil-borne microorganism that, when inhaled or in contact with our skin, stimulates serotonin production in the brain, contributing to mood and cognitive regulation. 

Sometimes, we don’t even need to touch nature to benefit from it.

Roger S. Ulrich studied the impact on patients whose hospital room windows overlooked the outdoors. Ulrich discovered that patients who were able to view nature from their hospital rooms experienced fewer post-surgery complications and required less pain medication than those with no nature exposure. 

How horticultural therapy works

For Lawson, the practice of blending gardening with stress relief and emotional processing began in her home garden. She was overcome with grief after the loss of her mother. She turned to therapy, and then nature, for help. One seed at a time, her garden became a place of healing. And it is a symbiotic relationship: As she excavates old weeds and hydrates new roots with a sprinkling of water, she soaks in the vitamin D and begins to shift her emotional state.

Feeling compelled to share the power of her healing practice with others, Lawson created Meet Me in the Dirt, a dedicated green space in Redondo Beach. 

As she did that evening in the West Athens garden, Lawson guides her guests through their vulnerabilities and hardships through plant care. When supporting children through their experiences with change, uncertainty or a blend of different emotions, Lawson encourages parents to have open conversations. It’s understandably difficult to see those we love in pain, but it is far more painful to bury it beneath the surface. Encouraging families to meet each other, and themselves, in the dirt, Lawson says, “You don’t need a yard. You need a pot, and you need a seed. You need what the plant needs, too.” 

From the backyard to the schoolyard

While Lawson’s work reflects the deeply personal side of horticultural therapy, across Los Angeles, similar principles are being woven into schoolyards, where gardening programs are nurturing both learning and emotional well-being.

In an effort to challenge negative perceptions of public middle schools, Tomas O’Grady, a dad of four, pitched an idea to his eldest child’s middle school principal: A community garden connected to an environmental-science curriculum. With the collaboration of his wife Justine and a determined team, EnrichLA was born — and more than 200 school gardens have taken root. 

Through its Garden Ranger Program, children craft and taste organically grown vegetables from the solar-powered kitchens and learn about ecosystem interactions. Beyond academic enrichment, the program supports the emotional well-being of students through mental health awareness training and by providing a safe space for students to retreat to in the middle of busy, stimulating school days. Fueled by EnrichLA’s mission to make growth in harmony with nature a possibility for every student in L.A., O’Grady never turns down a new opportunity to create the next school garden. If you are interested in bringing an organic, regenerative garden to a school, visit enrichla.org/contact.  

Serving K-5^th grade students at Title 1 schools across L.A., the Garden School Foundation connects its curriculum to Next Generation Science Standards. Through its Seed to Table program, students create culturally inspired dishes with fresh ingredients in accordance with the seasonal patterns of Southern California. Teachers and parents rejoice in witnessing their students’ heightened interest in trying unique herbs and vegetables says Ann Dang, the community partnerships manager and master gardener.

Students also experience the power of tending to the soil through the Cafeteria to Compost program, which has redistributed more than 23,000 pounds of lunchtime food waste from the landfills. 

Whether it’s a school program, backyard garden, windowsill herb or even an idea, take some time this spring to plant something new with your children, reminding them that it takes time for the seeds we plant — in the soil and in our lives — to blossom. Consider keeping a plant journal to capture the unexpected lessons you and your family discover as your seeds grow.

From Their Gardens to Yours

If you are inspired by the therapeutic benefits and mission behind Meet Me in the Dirt, EnrichLA, and the Garden School Foundation, here are a few simple ways you can incorporate horticultural therapy into your family’s daily lives. Each of these ideas is adaptable for varying ranges of accessibility, from your own home and garden to public parks and outdoor spaces.

1. Start an herb garden. This can be as simple as purchasing a few pots of herbs you enjoy cooking with, placing them on your windowsill and showering them with care and a little water each evening.
2. Go for an outdoor scavenger hunt. Forage and run around while embracing your child’s curiosity for the little things we often overlook, such as ladybugs and flower buds.
3. Practice composting. Encourage the habit of sorting food scraps and compostable materials into the green bin to enrich the soil that surrounds us.
4. Embrace your child’s natural interests. If they don’t enjoy digging their hands into dirt, try some nature-based art activities, or change up your scenery and pack a picnic.

Emily Ip, a former editorial intern for L.A. Parent, is now a third-year student at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. 

The post How Gardening Helps Kids Build Confidence, Reduce Stress and Grow appeared first on L.A. Parent.

As GLP-1 medications dominate headlines and social media feeds, many L.A. moms are wondering what this new era of “microdosing for thinness” means for their own health and for the messages their kids are absorbing. Is “skinny” really back — and at what cost to body image and well-being? 

We asked Amanda Velazquez, M.D., director of Obesity Medicine in the Department of Surgery at Cedars-Sinai, to weigh in on the rise of diabetes drugs for weight loss and how parents can counter harmful body narratives at home.

We are hearing a lot about L.A. moms microdosing diabetes drugs for weight loss. Have you been seeing this trend? 

No, not in our clinical program.

What are your thoughts about using these drugs to lose 10–20 pounds without being diagnosed with diabetes or prediabetes?

These are FDA-approved medications for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. They are also used off-label for the treatment of obesity and overweight with weight-related medical conditions. If individuals are taking these medications purely for aesthetics, that is not their purpose. The purpose of these medications is to improve a patient’s health.

For several years, we were seeing more body-positive messages in social media and advertising campaigns, but it seems that “skinny is back” due to the common use of these types of drugs. Are you seeing this trend?

For some patients, body image strongly shapes how they see themselves, and social media messages that link thinness to GLP-1 use can reinforce a harmful focus on body size rather than overall health and well-being.

How do we as parents promote a positive body image for our kids, especially young girls?

Parents can support positive body image by normalizing body diversity and focusing praise of our children for who they are and not for how they look. This helps kids learn that their worth is not tied to how their bodies look.

What advice do you have for moms who are struggling with their own body image?

For moms struggling with body image, it is important to recognize that persistent distress or body dysmorphia is real and treatable and support is available. Talking openly with a healthcare clinician can help identify helpful resources and approaches rooted in compassion rather than self-criticism.

How does a mom’s body image shape her children’s view of themselves?

A mother’s body image strongly shapes how her children see themselves because children absorb what parents say and do about bodies. When parents model positive self-talk and separate worth from appearance, children learn to do the same.

How do you talk about the messages that social media is sending about body image?

It is important to educate children on the fact that social media promotes unrealistic standards and edits reality. I encourage parents to teach their children media literacy instead of internalizing harmful messages that have health consequences for our youth.

How do we talk about eating healthy without sounding like all we want to do is limit calories?

Healthy eating can be framed around nourishment, energy and satisfaction vs. calorie counting or restriction. I encourage patients to avoid food moralization, which means not labeling foods as “good” or “bad.” This helps children build a healthier, less shame-based relationship with eating.

How do we encourage movement without sounding like all we want is to be thin?

Movement is important for one’s mental, emotional and physical health. Focusing on the health benefits of movement and why your child genuinely enjoys movement can help support their physical activity. 

How do we respond when our 7-year-old says, “I shouldn’t eat that cookie. I’ll get fat?”

I recommend having a nonjudgmental, compassionate conversation with your child by asking what they think about cookies and what they believe about people in larger bodies. This helps you understand where their ideas are coming from and gently guide the conversation toward body respect, food neutrality and self-worth that is not based on size.

Let’s Change the Narrative

All body shapes and sizes are acceptable. Body size is not an indicator of health, nor does it hold any moral value. Here are some ways to reframe common body-critical comments in more body-positive ways:

I shouldn’t eat these fries — I’m getting so fat. → I’m allowed to enjoy these fries, and eating them doesn’t define my health or my body.

I’d better go to the gym after eating that piece of cake. → I move my body because it supports my health, not to compensate for eating.

She lost so much weight — she looks amazing. → People lose weight for many reasons, including illness or stress, and we often don’t know the full story. I choose not to comment on others’ bodies.

I look so fat in this dress. → I don’t want to spend my time criticizing my body, so I’m going to change into something more comfortable.

I hate bathing suit shopping. I’m so fat. → I’m excited for warm weather. I’m going to find a bathing suit that helps me enjoy it.(Shift focus onto the positive aspect of why you need a bathing suit).

Amanda Velazquez, M.D., DABOM, FTOS, is director of Obesity Medicine in the Department of Surgery at Cedars-Sinai.

The post GLP-1 Weight Loss Trend: What LA Moms Should Know About Body Image appeared first on L.A. Parent.

What I like about the new Planet Fitness on the corner of Crenshaw Boulevard and Slauson Avenue goes beyond just its brand-new equipment and spacious layout; I appreciate how seamlessly it fits into my already-full life. As a working dad, time is always the biggest barrier. When something is close, welcoming and easy to fold into a routine, consistency stops feeling like a struggle and starts feeling possible.

As an (ahem!) older dad, staying active isn’t about pushing limits; it’s about maintaining mobility, managing my many aches and pains and feeling good enough to show up fully for my family and community. And in a neighborhood where residents and local activists have long pushed for better access to healthy food, safe spaces and wellness resources, having the new Planet Fitness more than convenient — it’s critical.

A well-maintained, modern space dedicated to wellness feels like an investment in the neighborhood. Clean and safe places that support healthy routines aren’t always a given, and when they exist, they make a huge difference. At my new gym, I see parents, older adults and neighbors of all ages taking time for themselves, and that was before the new year and its resolutions hit the stage!

For parents, staying active often means having the energy to keep up with daily life and modeling healthy habits for their kids. Seeing that happen in a shared community space, right in the neighborhood, feels powerful. It reinforces the idea that taking care of yourself is part of taking care of your family.

During my son’s recent winter break from college, we even worked out together, something I found great joy in but didn’t take for granted. Finding time to connect with an 18-year-old isn’t always easy, and sharing our workouts side by side, moving and talking, felt like its own kind of win.

This gym isn’t about trends or transformation photos for the gram. It’s about access, routine and feeling comfortable enough to show up as you are. For me, it’s become part of a healthier routine.

For all of us in the South L.A. community, it’s a reminder that we deserve easy and convenient access to wellness. When clean, safe spaces exist close to home, they change how people see themselves and what feels possible for their families. 

Marcus Rich is a real estate agent, luxury transportation company owner and dad to three sons.  

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For many of us, a new year means resolutions for healthier living — and if your social media is anything like mine, you’re probably seeing a flood of posts about the latest health fad or “hack,” plus “quick and easy” recipes, workouts and supplements. Whether the buzz is around sea moss gummies or weighted vests, it can be hard to know what actually has true health benefits versus what’s just trending online.

To cut through the noise, I reached out to two local experts — Autumn Beam, a certified nutrition specialist and founder of HopeWella Functional Nutrition, and Elizabeth Brown, a registered dietitian nutritionist and certified personal trainer better known on social media as “The Kitchen Vixen” — to separate fads from fact and help you make informed choices.

Alkaline water: Worth the cost?

Alkaline water has been on the scene for years, and it’s nearly impossible to enter a grocery store without spotting the higher-priced bottles next to spring or distilled options. Most drinking water is neutral or slightly alkaline, around pH 7. Alkaline water has a higher pH scale — typically 8 to 9.5 — which simply means it’s less acidic than standard drinking water.

Social media, ads and even well-meaning relatives often tout it as a cure-all, claiming it offers better hydration, smoother digestion, reduced inflammation and even cancer prevention. At the core of these claims is the idea that it can neutralize excess acid in the body.

Here’s the catch: Our stomachs are naturally acidic, which quickly overrides whatever you drink. Your body tightly regulates pH, and even a lot of alkaline water would only have temporary effects.

Beam notes that existing studies are small, sometimes with fewer than 100 participants or not even involving humans. “This does not add up to strong clinical findings,” she says. “Whether it’s filtered, spring or alkaline, the goal is consistent hydration — not chasing trends.”

Brown agrees: “The main advantage is flavor and consistency, not chemistry.”

The bottom line: Fad. Regular water, filtered or spring, is just as effective for hydration.

Sea moss, ‘superfoods’ and the search for magic ingredients

If you’ve been on TikTok or Instagram, you’ve likely seen posts about sea moss and other “superfoods.” Social media claims that sea moss, because of its iodine content, can help with rapid weight loss, gut health and thyroid healing. But too much iodine can actually cause hypothyroidism, leading to fatigue and weight gain, Brown warns.

While it won’t hurt you to eat it (if you can get past the texture), with limited evidence, sea moss is still TBD — just one ingredient in a long line of trending “superfoods.” Beam says the term itself is more marketing than science: “Colloquially, it’s considered a food high in nutrients, but that’s just any whole food. If you enjoy it, include it. Otherwise, leave it at the store.”

The bottom line: Fad. No one “superfood” is a miracle worker, although they can be beneficial to add to a diverse and varied diet. 

Protein: How much do women really need?

If you’re a woman of a certain age, you’ve likely been bombarded with social media posts about eating what often feels like an impossible amount of protein, with some accounts recommending 150 grams a day or more.

Protein needs do increase with age as we lose muscle and bone mass, but how much is necessary? At the end of the day, it’s not one size fits all. 

“Protein needs are highly individualized,” Beam says. “They’re based on age, height, activity, gender, goals and genetics, which is why there’s a range rather than a single number.” The U.S. Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) is 0.8 g/kg body weight, but most research suggests 1.2-1.6 g/kg better supports muscle mass — about 70-95 grams for a 130-pound adult.

Beam notes that she has clients who thrive on higher-protein diets, with more energy, better digestion and appetite control. Others feel sluggish or constipated with higher protein. Listen to your body and consult a professional if needed.

For those increasing protein, Brown recommends a slow, steady approach using a tracking app to make small, consistent tweaks.

The bottom line: Fact. As we age, increasing our protein intake does help with muscle loss, but you probably don’t need as much as social media is telling you.

Weighted vests and waist trimmers: Tools or gimmicks?

Every time I leave my house, I can’t help but notice multiple people walking around my neighborhood in their weighted vests — but is it just a passing trend?

If social media is to be believed, it’s a must-have accessory for perimenopausal women, especially, to boost bone density. But at the end of the day, there just isn’t enough research on the specific effects of weighted vests to back up all the hyped-up claims. There is, however, ample evidence on the benefits of weight-bearing exercises such as resistance training and Pilates.

That’s not to say there won’t one day be evidence of the benefits of weighted vests, and anything that gets you to get out and walk more, boost calorie burning and expend more cardiovascular energy can definitely be beneficial.

Waist trimmers, on the other hand, seem to be hawked by every pseudo-influencer out there. According to Brown, however, they just increase sweating, not actual fat loss, as is purported. Any supposed “trimming” you’ll see will be lost water, which will just come right back as you rehydrate. The tight compression of the waist trimmers can also restrict breathing, which is never a good thing.

The bottom line: Fad. Weighted vests aren’t harmful, but they don’t replace true strength training. Waist trimmers are a gimmick with potential downsides.

Esther Carlstone is a parenting and travel writer/editor who’s always looking for the best places to see, eat and stay with kids. 

The post Health Fads vs Facts: What Actually Works in the New Year appeared first on L.A. Parent.

At just 14 years old, Ysabella Cajanding is competing internationally with her father and Team USA, showing how family, fitness, and culture collide on the water.

This July, the rhythmic pulse of paddles and drums will echo through Brandenburg, Germany, as more than 4,000 elite athletes from over 30 countries compete in the 17th IDBF World Dragon Boat Racing Championships, the sport’s most prestigious global event.

Among them? 14-year-old Ysabella Cajanding from Bellflower — making waves on the Junior U.S. National Team.

“These kids have made sacrifices for two years preparing for Germany, and I couldn’t be more proud,” said Nathan Salazar, Team USA coach.

Dragon boat racing, a sport with roots dating back over 2,000 years in China, is now one of the fastest-growing water sports worldwide. It combines fierce physical endurance, flawless timing, and team unity — teams of 20 paddlers race in sync to the beat of a drum aboard 40-foot-long boats adorned with traditional dragon heads and tails. It’s a spectacle of culture, community and competition.

“I want to bond with my team, make memories, and hopefully win gold,” Ysabella said about the upcoming trip to Germany. ”I like the community it creates with my teammates. We’re working together, paddling together and winning together.”

For Ysabella, this journey started when she was just seven years old, paddling alongside her dad Rex who has competed for over two decades. By age 12, she was making history, competing internationally in Thailand, where she brought home three gold medals and two silvers, becoming the youngest competitor at the 16th IDBF World Dragon Boat Racing Competition.

“I started because I saw my dad doing this sport. He’s been a part of it since before I was born, and he saw my interest growing and put me in the boat with him. Now, I’ve been paddling for half my life,” Ysabella said.

Now, Ysabella and Rex are not just father and daughter, but also teammates representing Team USA on the global stage. Their shared passion for dragon boat racing has built more than strength, it’s deepened their bond and created a legacy of teamwork and resilience.

When she’s not on the water, she prioritizes her wellness and conditioning for the sport. According to a nationwide survey conducted by Planet Fitness, teens believe physical activity helps deal with emotional ups and downs of being a teenager, and 93 percent agree that regular exercise is beneficial when handling challenges. 

“Watching my daughter grow through sports and at the gym, I’ve seen how it strengthens more than just her body—it gives her confidence, clears her mind, and helps her face the daily challenges teens deal with today. She also has our full support. Her mother, Liz, provides her with good nutrition and mental stability, always reminding her that she’s a student before an athlete,” said Ysabella’s father, Rex. 

Ysabella is a regular at her neighborhood Planet Fitness, where she utilizes Team USA coach-approved machines that target the back, shoulders and core muscle groups she needs to excel as an athlete. She works out at Planet Fitness three times a week, noting that the gym has lots of space for her to complete her fitness routine. 

“I have an athlete mentality, and I’m thankful that my local Planet Fitness has the space for what I need to accomplish. It’s hard to find a good gym that’s not overcrowded,” said Ysabella. 

She especially enjoys the resistance bands for assisted pull-ups, something that not every nearby gym provides. Both Ysabella and Rex use the massage chairs and hydromassage beds at Planet Fitness to cool down and recover their sore muscles. What’s more uplifting, 90 percent of teens say exercise helps them feel happy, with 88 percent noting improved mood after exercise noted by the survey.

Whether they are training for a sport or just want to get in some healthy exercise, Planet Fitness is dedicated to investing in teen wellness. The franchise is offering free memberships to high school students and athletes nationwide ages 14-19 from now until Aug. 31 as part of Planet Fitness’s annual High School Summer Pass Program. For more information on how to sign up, head to planetfitness.com/summerpass. 

The post Bellflower Teen Heads to World Championships with Team USA in Dragon Boat Racing appeared first on L.A. Parent.

Teens can visit PlanetFitness.com/SummerPass to register for the program with club access beginning June 1-Aug. 31. Find the club nearest you here. 

Since launching the program in 2019, Planet Fitness has invested more than $300 million in waived membership dues to promote youth health and wellness and improve the physical and mental health of millions of teens. Planet Fitness’ High School Summer Pass program has helped millions of teens establish healthy fitness habits during the summer months, a critical time when many young people lack access to organized physical activities.

To better understand what today’s teens are experiencing — and how to support them — Planet Fitness conducted a nationwide study, revealing the following key insights:

• Mental health is a major concern: 66 percent of parents are concerned about their teen’s well-being and stress levels and 72 percent of parents believe that consistent exercise can improve their teen’s mental wellness. Unfortunately, around three in five teens report their stress and anxiety are not improving and getting worse as they get older. 
• Working out is a solution: Encouragingly, 90 percent of teens say exercise helps them feel happy, with 88 percent noting improved mood after exercise.
• Exercise is more than physical health: Teens believe physical activity helps deal with emotional ups and downs of being a teenager; 93 percent agree that regular exercise is beneficial when handling challenges.
• Screen time is consuming: 81 percent of teens acknowledge that social media and video games take up a significant portion of their day. In fact, nearly four in five teens report that avoiding social media is helpful. 
• Summer brings a fitness slump: 50 percent of teens report that their fitness levels tend to decline when school is out for summer break.

“At Planet Fitness, we offer a high value experience to both our members and High School Summer Pass participants in a welcoming, judgment-free environment where everyone can get a great workout,” says Planet Fitness’ Chief Executive Officer Colleen Keating. “With free access to our clubs throughout the summer, we’re providing teens with the tools they need to develop healthy fitness habits that can last a lifetime.”

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