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Health & Wellness

JA N UA RY 2 02 5

LIFESTYLE LETTER

New Year: A Journey to Health & Wellness

January 2025 PUBLISHER

Kristy Murdoch | kristy.murdoch@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R

January marks the start of a brand-new year, a time to embrace change, growth, and fresh beginnings. New Year’s resolutions provide the perfect opportunity to reflect on the past, set meaningful goals, and create intentions for the months ahead. For many of us, health and wellness take center stage in these goals—especially after the whirlwind of the busy holiday season. If you’re like me, the end of the year can leave you craving a reset. So, let’s embark on a local journey together to find inspiring and creative ways to reach our wellness goals in 2025! We begin with advice from a local dietitian who cuts through the noise of trendy diet fads, helping us get back to basics with practical tips to kick off the new year. We also spotlight an EDH chiropractic functional neurology clinic exploring new frontiers in neurological recovery, transforming care for traumatic brain injuries and other conditions. The new year is a wonderful time to prioritize stress relief, and we’ve included simple at-home yoga stretches to help you relax, improve your well-being, and release tension. And, of course, what’s winter without a little snow? We’ve rounded up some of the best spots in Tahoe for family-friendly winter adventures that combine fun with your wellness journey. Finally, we top it all off with some healthy yet delicious smoothie recipes. Here’s to a fresh start and a year filled with health, growth, and happiness!

Todd Murdoch | todd.murdoch@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R

Matt Clark | matt.clark@citylifestyle.com C O PY E D I TO R

Krista Minard S O C I AL M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R

Cadence Murdoch CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Krista Minard, Matt Clark, Sybil Velarde C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Charlene Taylor, Kimberlee Brooke & Co, RSM Creative/Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority, Travis Buitrago, Stephanie Birch

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Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 El Dorado Hills City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the El Dorado Hills area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

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inside the issue JANUARY 20 2 5 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

16 24

Featured

16 24 26 6

Ask an Expert

A registered dietitian from Marshall shares insights on diet fads, influencers, and simple facts

Beyond the Scan

The transformative power of chiropractic functional neurology with Passport 2 Health

Stress Less, Stretch More

Simple at-home stretches to relax your mind and body

Tahoe Snow Play

Discover family fun at SNO-Parks and resort tubing spots

26 On the Cover

Departments

EDH yoga instructor and former Sacramento Kings cheerleader Rebecca Breining exemplifies healthy living while preforming a compass pose.

Lifestyle Letter

Business Monthly

Expert Help WELLNESS

Must See HEALTH + WELLNESS

Self Care FITNESS

Outdoor Adventure SPORTS + RECREATION

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E

Events

Photography: Travis Buitrago

JANUARY 2025

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Explore the Wonders of the Night Sky this Winter Visit Placerville’s free public observatory located at 6699 Campus Drive. Established by the Rotary Club in 2005, it is run by 60 dedicated volunteers welcoming 12,000 visitors annually. Enjoy their open-air “Sky Theater,” stateof-the-art telescopes, and guided tours. Open Friday and Saturday nights 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., weather permitting. Check communityobservatory.com or their Facebook page after 3 p.m. on the day you plan to visit to check for updates.

Friends of the EDH Library Announces Book Sale Event The members-only presale is on Friday, Jan. 10 from noon to 6 p.m. at the EDH Library. Memberships may be purchased at the library, or online at friendsoftheedhlibrary.org. Saturday, Jan. 11 is open to all from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Most items are $1 per pound; DVDs/CDs are $1 each. On Saturday from 2 to 4 p.m., their $5 per bag blowout sale takes place for all remaining items. Cash or check payment only, please.

Calling All Women-Owned Businesses! Folsom Kitchen & Bath is looking for women-owned businesses to join them in their Fit + Fabulous Women in Business Mixer on Feb. 5, from 5 to 8 p.m. This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your products or services, connect with the community, and network with like-minded professionals. They are seeking vendors in the health, beauty, or design industries to host booths. For details, contact Toni at toni@folsomkitchenbath.com or call 916.618.4798.

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

ASK AN EXPERT

A registered dietitian from Marshall shares insights on diet fads, inf luencers, and simple facts ARTICLE BY KRISTA MINARD

EXP E RT H E LP | WEL L NESS

It’s that time of year—resolutions season! As we glower at the scale and swear off junk food, it can be tempting to consult the internet for quick fixes. Social media teems with diet fads—short-take TikTok reels and Instagram grids about lettuce water and “oatzempic” and all meat, even an air diet!

“Work with a dietitian to create SMART goals in dieting: Sustainable, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound.” As ideal as speed-dieting might sound, beware and don’t be influenced. Your life may depend on it. In the interest of getting solid information from a registered expert, we caught up with Danielle Hernandez, RDN, who’s an outpatient clinical dietitian with Marshall Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehab. She shares what’s true and what’s a myth, and says despite the allure of pretty pictures and wild promises online, “The best nutrition advice is the most boring.”

WHAT ARE THE KEY PRINCIPLES OF A DIET THAT EVERYONE SHOULD FOLLOW?

A well-balanced diet should include half of your plate being vegetables, one-quarter carbohydrates (pasta, rice, whole wheat products, for example), and one-quarter should be plant (tofu, beans, nuts/seeds) or animal protein.

HOW DO YOU HELP CLIENTS CREATE HEALTHY EATING HABITS THEY CAN SUSTAIN?

The most important thing I do as a dietitian is listen to my patients. I let them tell me what their goals are and how they think they can accomplish them. We then work together to create SMART goals (sustainable, measurable, attainable, relevant, time-bound). I provide assistance with things like meal planning, grocery shopping and more.

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON POPULAR DIET TRENDS LIKE KETO, INTERMITTENT FASTING OR VEGANISM?

Veganism is a way of life, and diet is only one key component of it. Keto, intermittent fasting and others are fad diets, which are not meant to be sustainable. CONTINUED >

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The cycle of these diets is to restrict intake, lose weight and (inevitably) regain the weight. This cycle makes people think they are the problem, when in reality it’s the diet.

WHICH DIET TRENDS DO YOU FIND POTENTIALLY HARMFUL OR MISLEADING?

One example is the carnivore diet (composed primarily of animal protein). It’s very harmful as it promotes the consumption of meat, especially red meat, while eliminating fiber and other nutrients that are cardioprotective and backed by research.

DETOX DIETS AND CLEANSES ARE OFTEN MARKETED AS QUICK FIXES. ARE THESE APPROACHES TRULY EFFECTIVE OR BENEFICIAL?

If anything is promoted as a “quick fix,” it’s usually a way for a company or person to make money off people. These diets and cleanses often lack scientific evidence to support them.

ARE THERE SAFER, MORE EFFECTIVE WAYS TO “DETOX” THE BODY NATURALLY?

Our body has natural detox mechanisms built in. The liver, kidneys, lungs, skin and digestive system work together to remove waste from our bodies. No diet or supplements can improve or replace the functions the body provides.

HOW DO YOU HELP CLIENTS DISTINGUISH BETWEEN LEGITIMATE NUTRITIONAL ADVICE AND FAD DIETS?

If it sounds too good to be true, it mostly likely is. A balanced diet that practices moderation is the best eating plan. No one wants to hear, though, that eating fruits and vegetables is the key to a healthy life.

WHAT RED FLAGS SHOULD PEOPLE LOOK OUT FOR WHEN EVALUATING A DIET TREND?

If a diet has you eliminate food groups like fruits and vegetables, that’s a red flag.

EXP E RT H E LP | WEL L NESS

If it sounds too good to be true, it mostly likely is. A balanced diet that practices moderation is the best eating plan.

WHAT’S AN EXAMPLE OF A COMMON NUTRITION MYTH YOU MIGHT ENCOUNTER, AND WHAT IS THE TRUTH BEHIND IT?

Visit marshallmedical.org for more information.

Myth: Carbohydrates and snacks are bad for you and make you gain weight, especially if you are diabetic. In reality: Carbohydrates are the body’s preferred energy source. Our body breaks them down to use as energy or stores them to use when we are sleeping, exercising and so forth. There is not one certain food group that contributes to weight gain. People who have diabetes still need carbohydrates. Snacks are a great way to take the edge off hunger and combat overeating at your next meal. Snacks should consist of a protein (peanut butter, hard-boiled egg) paired with carbs (apples, crackers) to slow

down the digestion and decrease hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).

HOW CAN PEOPLE PROTECT THEMSELVES FROM MISINFORMATION ABOUT HEALTH AND DIET?

Check credentials. Registered dietitians (RD or RDN) are the only health care professionals that are legally allowed to give nutrition advice. “Nutritionist” is a nonregulated term and anyone can be a nutritionist, so watch out for that. Marshall Medical offers the Pritikin Program, a diet and nutrition initiative integrated with their cardiac rehabilitation program. Patients aiming to improve their heart health can attend classes led by Danielle Hernandez, RDN, who teaches heart-healthy eating habits and shares recipes. JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/E L D O R A D O HI L L S

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BEYOND the Scan

M UST SE E | HEALTH + W ELLN E SS

THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF CHIROPRACTIC FUNCTIONAL NEUROLOGY ARTICLE BY KRISTY MURDOCH PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHARLENE TAYLOR

Chiropractic functional neurology, often referred to as a “living exam,” is a specialized field within neuroscience that focuses on identifying and addressing functional deficiencies in the nervous system to enhance neurological performance. Unlike conventional medical neurology, which relies primarily on imaging to detect structural issues such as tumors or lesions, functional neurology combines advanced biotechnology with in-depth neurological physical examinations to diagnose and treat disorders. Dr. Devon L. Gaston, DC, MS, DACNB, founder of Passport 2 Health in El Dorado Hills, and her team specialize in managing complex conditions, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), balance disorders, POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), neurodegenerative diseases, and autoimmune disorders. Dr. Gaston shares her expertise in this evolving field, highlighting its transformative impact on patient care.

THE FUNCTIONAL NEUROLOGY APPROACH: BRIDGING THE GAP

Functional neurologists use objective testing to comprehensively evaluate the nervous system. Dr. Gaston explains, “If a patient reports dizziness to an ER facility, they are often diagnosed with BPPV, a relatively benign positional vertigo commonly associated with inner ear issues. However, centralized vertigo—brain-based vertigo caused by faulty communication between the brain and sensory systems, which may result from closed head trauma or even post-COVID complications—is frequently overlooked. This type of vertigo is often the result of a ‘sensory mismatch’ between the eyes and ears, where conflicting information is sent to the brain, causing confusion. The outcome can manifest as vertigo, double vision, nausea, or even anxiety.” Dr. Gaston notes that traditional medical management often involves a referral to an EENT (ear, eye, nose and throat) specialist to evaluate vestibular (balance) function through tests like VNG (videonystagmography).

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However, many patients never complete the referral process, or their condition is assumed to be self-limiting and managed with exercises like the Epley maneuver. “In our experience, this is rarely the case,” she says, emphasizing the need for a deeper assessment of brain functionality, including individual balance centers. This comprehensive, multimodal approach allows Dr. Gaston to identify and address the root causes of symptoms rather than treat them in isolation. By leveraging the principles of neuroplasticity, she works to improve the brain’s communication with itself, the body’s organ systems, and even an individual’s perceptions and interactions with the external world.

A PERSONAL JOURNEY INTO FUNCTIONAL NEUROLOGY

Dr. Gaston’s passion for functional neurology stems from her own life-altering experience. In 2013, while studying in her last quarter of chiropractic medicine, she suffered a severe head injury and undiagnosed stroke following a freak accident, passing out in her bathroom. Conventional medical care failed to provide answers (or adequate care), leaving her with debilitating symptoms including double vision, balance issues, and coordination problems. She was unable to drive for almost a year post injury. Through intense functional neurological therapy with Dr. Ellis, now a board member of the American Chiropractic Neurology Board (ACNB.org), the governing body for accreditation for functional neurology, Dr. Gaston recovered and passed her licensing exams. “I underwent eight weeks of therapy, four hours a day, four days a week leading up to the two eight-hour day tests,” she recalls. “It was grueling, but it saved my life.” Experiencing her

M UST SE E | HEALTH + W ELLN E SS

own incredible results from this approach was empowering. It allowed her to go from barely functioning to inspiring her to dedicate her career to helping others overcome similar challenges.

FUNCTIONAL NEUROLOGY AND TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURIES

When treating mild TBIs (mTBI), “conventional neurology often relies on imaging like MRI, which typically fails to detect most closed head trauma or functional neurological impairments unless utilizing more advanced imaging (such as MRI with DTI or SPECT imaging), which is generally not available to most people outside of medical or research arenas,” shares Dr. Gaston. Advanced objective balance, oculomotor skills, and even the ability to have rhythm (known as neural timing) are all indicators of neurological health, and evaluation of these is useful in the detection and grading of traumatic brain injuries. Dr. Gaston explains, “Head trauma is multidimensional. Symptoms can include vision changes, ringing in the ears, dizziness, headaches, depression, anxiety, light and/or sound sensitivity, fatigue, disorientation, and problems with focusing, working, or driving. There are systemic effects, too, like gastrointestinal issues, hormone imbalances, sleep disorders, and potential brain-based immune changes, which stem from brain-to-body communication disruptions.” Research shows that within six hours of a head injury, the gut lining and the blood-brain barrier can become permeable, triggering food allergies and perpetuating inflammation. Functional neurologists assess and address these cascading effects, often using advanced serum and blood testing, as there are blood markers that can indicate mTBI or post-concussive syndrome.

CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/E L D O R A D O HI L L S

Cody Forman, CPT

INNOVATIVE DIAGNOSTICS AND THERAPIES

Functional neurologists employ advanced tools to assess and rehabilitate brain function. One such tool is oculomotor testing, which evaluates eye movement and control, crucial for tasks like reading, maintaining balance, and driving. Balance assessment using CTSIB testing examines three key contributors to balance: proprioception (contributes to spatial awareness), information from the eyes, and information from vestibular centers, including the inner ear to the tracts of the brain that process this information to ensure proper posture and balance. Additionally, QEEG and neurofeedback testing map electrical brainwave activity in 3D and real-time, identifying areas of over or underperformance and then training the brain to self-regulate effectively.

CHIROPRACTIC CARE MEETS FUNCTIONAL NEUROLOGY

Chiropractic adjustments play a pivotal role in functional neurology. They provide critical sensory input regarding joint position to the brain for processing, helping it recalibrate the body’s internal GPS to thereby improve posture and balance. Traditional physical therapy techniques like Graston mobilization are also used. This targets the fascia, a sensory-rich Saran wrap-like covering that envelops our muscles and their fibers and relays important sensory information to the brain. Fascia adhesions can limit range of motion and change the information that the brain receives, which can contribute to balance and movement disorders due to an augmented perception of self versus nonself (external environment).

M UST SE E | HEALTH + W ELLN E SS

Jaclyn "Kat" Cook, LMT

Carol Kendrick, Office Manager

Passport 2 Health applies functional neurology with a collaborative approach. A personal trainer and corrective exercise specialist, Cody Forman is a former professional athlete who works alongside Dr. Gaston to bridge the brain-body connection. “Rehabilitation isn’t just about targeting muscles—it’s about translating brain signals into functional movement,” Cody explains. Cody’s inspiration comes from his own mother, who survived a near-fatal car accident and went on to complete Ironman Triathlons. “Her journey reminds me to treat every client like family,” he says. Together, the Passport 2 Health team helps patients achieve milestones that once seemed impossible.

THE POWER OF LASERS IN THERAPY

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is a groundbreaking tool in functional neurology with wide-ranging benefits and zero side effects. Dr. Gaston is an advanced proficiency provider of Erchonia, the global leader in low-level laser technology. Lasers address issues including chronic pain and inflammation and regulate fight-or-flight responses and neurological imbalances by increasing blood flow and mitochondrial function. Red lowlevel lasers, for example, are excellent for pain management, whether chronic or post-surgical. Also helpful for anxiety disorders through vagal stimulation, they help calm the body’s fight-or-flight response. Recent studies have shown low-level lasers help improve gut health by repopulating gut flora, much like an advanced probiotic. Meanwhile, violet lasers are antimicrobial, targeting bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Aiding in supporting the immune system, especially during a detox, violet lasers have been used in veterinary and dental procedures and

Dr. Gaston and her Passport 2 post-surgically to help stave off infection. The first green laser in the world has also been developed by Erchonia and is available for use. This is the most advanced, with autoimmune applications. These lasers are now accessible through Passport 2 Health for home therapy rental. Personalized protocols are tailored to individual needs—for weekly or monthly rental, for acute “weekend warrior” injuries or long-term chronic disease management. Low-level laser therapy represents an effective, noninvasive solution for modern health care.

BEYOND CONCUSSIONS: ADDRESSING THE INVISIBLE INJURY

Traumatic brain injuries are said to be the “invisible injury” due to the fact that post-concussive syndrome is often more subjective in nature. (You can’t physically see it, like a broken arm.) Symptoms can wax and wane, making it challenging for family and loved ones to understand or know how to provide support. Symptoms like overstimulation from light, sound, or simply conversation can be frustrating, anxiety-provoking, and isolating. “Anxiety after closed head trauma is often not psychological—it’s physiological,” Dr. Gaston explains. “When the brain is imbalanced, sensory processing overload can occur as the brain struggles to process all the things we experience. If unable to keep up with the rate of information, this can result in fightor-flight responses, even in nonstressful situations.” Functional neurological applications work to restore balance, helping patients regain control over their lives and their relationships. Kat Cook, who is part of the Passport 2 Health team, is a testament to this mission. One of Dr. Gaston’s first

Health team continue to push boundaries, offering hope to those navigating the challenges of mTBIs and other neurological conditions. functional neurology patients in 2016, Kat had been misdiagnosed with narcolepsy after having two brain stem strokes in utero. She went from being bedridden to becoming a licensed massage therapist after working with Dr. Gaston. “Functional neurology gave me my life back,” she shares. “Kat is also Erchonia laser certified and incorporates the laser with her massage, along with Graston fascial releases, and deep tissue and hot stone massage,” shares Dr. Gaston. Joining Dr. Gaston is Office Manager Carol Kendrick, whose unique journey adds depth to the team. A former Army medic with the 7th Medical Division and a seasoned entrepreneur, Carol returned to the medical field in 2020 to fulfill her passion for helping others. She shares, “I’m grateful for my experiences and excited to help our patients.” Dr. Gaston and her Passport 2 Health team continue to push boundaries, offering hope to those navigating the challenges of mTBIs and other neurological conditions. Functional neurology’s approach reminds us of the brain’s incredible innate ability to heal when given the right support. As Dr. Gaston puts it, “No two brains are the same, and no two recoveries should be either.”

DR. DEVON L. GASTON DC, MS, DACNB Since 2018, Dr. Devon Gaston and her integrative rehabilitation team at Passport 2 Health have specialized in advanced clinical therapies, including chiropractic functional neurology, corrective exercise, functional medicine, and med-legal expert witness services for mTBI testing. They develop personalized, neurologically focused healing plans tailored to each individual. Committed to accessibility, they also provide telemedicine services and affordable laser rentals for in-home use. Visit passport2health.co to learn more.

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STRESS LESS, STRETCH MORE ARTICLE BY MATT CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE BIRCH

SIMPLE AT-HOME STRETCHES TO RELA X YOUR MIND AND BODY

The holidays can be stressful, and with the new year here, it’s the perfect time to adopt healthy habits. Stretching and yoga are powerful ways to reduce stress by promoting relaxation and improving well-being. These practices release muscle tension while encouraging mindful breathing and body awareness. Yoga, in particular, combines gentle movements with deep breathing to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing the body’s “fight or flight” response. Regular stretching can lower cortisol, improve flexibility, and enhance mood. We spoke with Emily, a lead trainer at Radiant Yoga EDH, who shared simple techniques to practice at home for stress relief.

S ELF CA R E | FI TNES S

SUPTA BADDAH KONASANA Sit with your legs extended, bringing your feet together and letting your knees fall open to the sides. Slowly lower your torso backward, supporting yourself with your arms. Place pillows or blocks under your knees for added comfort if needed. Relax your arms by your sides, palms up. This pose helps relieve stress and ease cold symptoms.

UTTANASANA Start standing, feet hip-width apart. Inhale to lengthen your spine, then exhale and hinge from your hips to fold forward. Relax your head and neck, reaching toward the floor. Keep a slight bend in your knees if needed and avoid rounding your back. Hold for a few breaths, then slowly rise. This pose releases tension, improves circulation, and stretches the hamstrings and lower back.

SURYA NAMASK AR Start with feet shoulder-width apart, shoulders back, and palms facing forward. Inhale, raise your arms overhead, then exhale and fold forward. Inhale into a half lift, exhale and step back into a plank position. Lower to the floor, inhale into Cobra, then exhale into Downward Dog. Step forward, inhale into a half lift, exhale to fold, and rise back to standing. Sun Salutation boosts circulation, strength, flexibility, and energy.

SAMA VRITTI To perform a yoga breathing square, inhale for a count of four, then hold the breath for four counts. Exhale for four counts, and hold the exhale for four counts. Continue this pattern, focusing on steady, even breaths. This technique helps calm the mind, improve focus, and balance the nervous system. It also increases lung capacity and encourages deep, mindful breathing.

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TA HOE SNOW PL AY

DISCOVER FAMILY FUN AT SNO-PARKS AND RESORT TUBING SPOTS ARTICLE BY TODD MURDOCH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RSM CREATIVE/LAKE TAHOE VISITORS AUTHORITY

Lake Tahoe is a fantastic winter playground, and California’s SNO-Parks are perfect for enjoying family fun. There are eighteen designated SNOParks, all designed for safe, accessible snow activities. Though they don’t offer equipment rentals, they do provide parking and, in many cases, restrooms, making them ideal for family outings. California SNO-Parks require permits, which can be purchased online or from nearby vendors for $5 a day.

O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | SPORTS + RE CRE AT ION

Here are some SNO-Parks close to South Lake Tahoe.

TAYLOR CREEK

Just past the “Y” in South Lake Tahoe, on the way to Emerald Bay, this SNO-Park provides visitors access to cross-country ski tracks and snow play areas with stunning views at the base of Mt. Tallac.

ECHO LAKE

Near the summit of Echo Pass on Highway 89, Echo Lake SNO-Park is slightly higher in elevation so it typically has snow longer than other locations, making it ideal for snow play and cross-country skiing when other areas start to thaw. The scenic backdrop adds to the experience.

HOPE VALLEY

East of Carson Pass, Hope Valley SNO-Park is a great choice if you want a mix of groomed cross-country trails for snowshoeing and snowmobiling options. This higher-elevation park is perfect when the snow is thinner in lower spots.

SPOONER SUMMIT

In Nevada, this area provides free snow play at the corner of Highway 50 and Highway 28. While not an official SNO-Park, this spot has a moderate slope for sledding and tubing but lacks services.

Lake Tahoe is a fantastic winter playground, and California’s SNO-Parks are perfect for family fun. “walls” and a small hill below to stop you. Heavenly Mountain Resort’s tubing hill is at the top of a scenic tram ride from Heavenly Village. The park has four 500-foot-long lanes that drop 65 feet. Their tubing hill also has a magic carpet that’ll whisk you back up to the top. Tahoe’s winter wonderland offers something for everyone. So pack up, head to the mountains, and make memories that’ll warm you up all season long! Information provided by visitlaketahoe.com

RESORT TUBING OPTIONS

Situated on top of Echo Summit, Adventure Mountain is perfect for all sorts of snow play, including tubing, with up to 15 machine-groomed sledding runs. Sierra-at-Tahoe has a dedicated area called Blizzard Mountain with two rope-tow tubing lanes, snowball kits, outdoor fire pits, and picnic tables. Hansen’s Resort has runs that are groomed daily, with high

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ARTICLE BY SYBIL VELARDE

whirled

PEAS!

Vegetable juice is a great addition to your diet especially if you want to lose weight, gain energy, and feel great. Sometimes life gets too busy and you don’t have the time to cook healthy meals. Fall in love with leafy greens, fresh fruit, nut milks, and chia seeds all combined to make a quick, easy, and delicious contribution to your day.

Veggies And Blenders Bring The Health We Need

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

E N E RGY E L I X I R INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

• • • • •

Mix all together in a blender until smooth.

1 beet 1 carrot 1 celery stalk 1-2 inches of ginger 1 lemon

BLU E BE R RY M I N T INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries • 1 fresh or frozen banana • 1 cup spinach • 1 cup water • 1/4 cup fresh mint and/or 1-3 drops of peppermint essential oil • 1 cup ice if using fresh fruit

Mix all together in a blender until smooth.

GR E E N SMOOT H I E INGREDIENTS: • 2 cups cucumber • 1 cup Granny Smith apples • 1 cup celery • 1 handful baby spinach • 1/3 cup fresh pineapple (for a sweet smoothie or zest and juice of a small lime for tart smoothie) • 1 sprig parsley

DIRECTIONS: Mix all together in a blender until smooth.

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SU PE R FO OD SMOOT H I E INGREDIENTS: • 1/4 cup coconut milk • 1/2 cup frozen organic blueberries • 1 scoop organic whey protein powder • 1 tbsp chia seeds or flax meal • 1 scoop green superfood powder

DIRECTIONS: Mix all together in a blender until smooth.

V I TA L I T Y E L I X I R INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

• • • •

Mix all together in a blender until smooth.

1 celery stalk 1 lemon 1 green apple 1 cucumber

GR E E N N EC TA R INGREDIENTS: • • • •

1/3 cup celery 1/2 cup cucumber 1/2 cup Kale 2/3 cup Granny Smith apples • 2 Tablespoons lemon juice • 1/2 cup coconut water

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

DIRECTIONS: Mix all together in a blender until smooth.

PI N K F L A M I NG O INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

• 2 cups spinach • 2 cups unsweetened almond milk • 2 cups strawberries • 1 cup chopped mango

First, blend the spinach and almond milk in a blender until smooth. Then add the berries and mango and blend again until smooth.

GR E E N M ACH I N E INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

• • • • •

Place spinach and water in the blender and blend until smooth. Then add avocado, mango, and banana and blend again until smooth.

2 cups spinach 2 cups water 1 avocado, peeled 1 cup chopped mango 1 banana

K A L E FOR N I A E N E RGI Z I NG INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

• • • • • •

Blend kale, chia water, and oranges until smooth. Add pineapple, mango and blend again.

2 cups kale, stems removed 1 cup water 2 oranges peeled 1 cup chopped pineapple 1 cup chopped mango 2 tablespoons chia seeds (soak in water for 10 minutes)

JANUARY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/E L D O R A D O HI L L S

JANUARY 2025

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

EVE RY T H URS DAY

Youth Executive League at the Library for Teens El Dorado Hills Library | 4:00 PM Y.E.L.L. (Youth Executive League at the Library) is where 8th- to 12th-grade students are invited on a drop-in basis every Thursday to plan, promote, and host library programs and events as well as help with outreach efforts and community service opportunities. This program counts towards volunteer hours for school. Registration is not required. eldoradolibrary.org EVE RY SAT U RDAY

Cars and Coffee Regal Theater Parking Lot, El Dorado Hills Town Center | 7:00 AM Since 2014, this community-centered event has brought together car enthusiasts and families to celebrate all things on wheels, whether it’s a classic, exotic, or your favorite daily driver. Come admire an amazing lineup of vehicles, enjoy free coffee and doughnuts (while they last), and soak in the friendly atmosphere. No registration is needed! edhtowncenter.com EVE RY S UN DAY

EDH Farmer’s Market El Dorado Hills Town Center | 9:00 AM Our region’s most popular farmer’s market is open this winter! Located in the Target parking lot, this market includes fresh fruits and vegetables from local farms, as well as homemade jams, cheeses, and other household favorites from 9 AM to 1 PM. edhtowncenter.com JA NUA RY 2 N D & 1 6T H

Fiber Arts Group El Dorado Hills Library | 5:30 PM Knitting, crocheting, sewing, embroidery and more! Bring a project or start something new with materials from the library’s stash. Teen and adult fiber artists of all skill levels are welcome. eldoradolibrary.org JA NUA RY 1 9 T H

Yoga in the Park El Dorado Hills CSD | 9:00 AM Join the CSD for a family-friendly introduction to yoga postures and flows. This free event is brought to you through a partnership with YogaSix, weather permitting. Pre-registration is required. eldoradohillscsd.org JA NUA RY 3 1 ST

7th Annual Tourism Summit Authority Holiday Inn Express & Suites, 4360 Town Center Boulevard | 9:00 AM The El Dorado County Visitors Authority invites you to join the annual Tourism Summit. Attendees will hear from industry leaders on how Visit California is inspiring visitation to the Gold Country region and to the state of California. Registration includes lunch catered by Old Town Grill, refreshments all day, and a wine reception featuring El Dorado County Wines. visit-eldorado.com

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EVE N TS

4560 Post St • EDH Town Center El Dorado Hills 916.934.5600 emigh.com