LifestylePubs.com/LagunaNiguel
JANUARY 2020
Wellness
A NEW YOU IN 2020!
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LIFESTYLE LETTER
JANUARY 2020 PUBLISHER
Mike Gerard | michael.gerard@lifestylepubs.com STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Karen Reuter AD DESIGNER
Chad Jensen
Happy New Year! AS WE BEGIN 2020, A NEW DECADE, WE SET GOALS FOR WHAT WE WANT
LAYOUT DESIGNER
Dani Moore CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Melony Barber, Mike Gerard, Chris Meyer
OUR FUTURE SELVES TO BE LIKE AND LOOK LIKE. We take a glance back at where we have been and what we have done, and we try to refocus our path. January is a time to cleanse, to start fresh and not dwell on who we were 12 months ago. So much change can happen in a year; so as we plan our future and commit to resolutions, we also leave some room to change our minds—to grow and be human. Here at Laguna Niguel Lifestyle, we are so proud of the growth in our community through the last year and cannot wait to see what is coming for 2020. As new businesses open, old businesses expand, charities fundraise and we all turn one year older, we will continue to be right there to share your stories and celebrate your milestones. Happy New Year, Laguna Niguel. And thank you for being a part of our story!
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
Michael Gerard, Publisher
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
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ON THE COVER Locals Monica Huston and Jason Fairbanks enjoy
Proverbs 3:5-6
a beautiful Dana Point sunset.
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Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | January 2020
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INSIDE THE ISSUE JANUARY 2020
FEATURES 12 A Healthier Way to Cruise Rivers Extra Large Ama Magna Provides the Most Developed Wellness Program in River Cruising
18 Power Healing Through Yoga, Meditation, and Reiki An Interview with Alex Durham
24 Power To The Pedal Why Pedego E-Bikes Are All the Rage
28 Workouts for Your Moods Need a Pick-Me-Up, But Don’t Quite Have the Energy? These Activities
24 28
Will Get You Moving and Out of Your Post-Holiday Funk
12
18 DEPARTMENTS 4
Lifestyle Letter
8
Good Times
10
Around Town
12
Travel Destination
28 Healthy Lifestyle 34 Lifestyle Calendar
GOOD TIMES 1.
2.
3.
Uncorked: A Celebration of JSerra! JSerra Catholic High School recently held its annual fundraiser called Uncorked: A Celebration of JSerra. Some of Napa Valley’s most exclusive wineries participated with top cult winemakers. Patrons also enjoyed phenomenal entertainment and an exceptional culinary experience. JSerra's fundraiser supports student scholarships, academic programs, the arts, and athletics. Next year's event is already calendared for November 7, 2020. jserra.org
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
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10.
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1. Pictured left to right: Katie Szyman, Anne Meyer, Linda Petilli, Carolyn Ashwal, and Suzanne Cameron | 2. Marc Carlson and Jacque DuPont | 3. Matt and Coral Heslin | 4. Mina and Michael Santoro, Ann Santoro, Michael and Lori DiAngelo, and Susan Montagnino | 5. President Rich Meyer welcomed over 300 guests to the inaugural Uncorked: A Celebration of JSerra event. | 6. Pictured L to R: Susan Kim, Jennifer Nielan, Julieta Mullaney, Nicole Carlson, Claudia Gerard, Teya Som, Laura Collins, Christine Julian and Susan Puff | 7. Stella Foley, Bob Foley and Kelly Foley | 8. Direct from Napa, Luke Speer pours Phifer Pavitt and Switchback Ridge. | 9. Throughout the evening famed Sommelier Michael Jordan served his exclusive Óleo wine. | 10. Two of over 20 wines served at Uncorked were Onesta and Mentida. | 11. Local restaurants provided tastings of their signature dishes including assorted flavors from Jilly’s Tarts. | 12. Guests enjoyed an evening sampling wines from Napa, local breweries and over 10 fine restaurants. 8
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | January 2020
Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel Open House and Tree Lighting The community came out in force on November 24th for the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel's annual Open House and Tree Lighting Ceremony. Festivities included holiday music, an appearance from Santa, and a countdown to the spectacular tree lighting on the front drive. Donations were collected for Miracles for Kids and the Orange County Rescue Mission! PHOTOS: PACIFIC DREAM PHOTOGRAPHY
January 2020 | Laguna Niguel Lifestyle
9
AROUND TOWN 30012 Crown Valley Pkwy at the corner of Niguel Rd. For more information, call (949) 441-3222
LAGUNA NIGUEL ROTARY CLUB'S FREE CHILDREN'S DENTAL CLINIC The Laguna Niguel Rotary Club completed its eighth Free Children’s Dental Clinic in partnership with the USC School of Dentistry on Saturday,
SAVE THE DATE: LAGUNA NIGUEL ROTARY CLUB'S ANNUAL FUNDRAISER
November 2nd. Held at Niguel Hills Middle School,
Save the Date! The Laguna Niguel Rotary Club
the free clinic provided ninety-eight children and
will be holding its annual fundraiser on March 21,
adults with education regarding the critical impor-
2020 from 6pm-11pm at El Niguel Country Club.
tance of dental hygiene, X-rays, dental cleanings
This year's theme will be Gold Rush Casino. Early
and dental treatments as needed. The annual clinic
bird tickets are are available for $125 each until
is provided by Rotarians fulfilling the Rotary motto –
December 30. After that, prices increase to $150
“Service Above Self.” LagunaNiguelRotaryClub.org
each. This event sells out every year, so you do not want to miss it! For more information, visit LagunaNiguelRotaryCasino.com
FIT BODY BOOT CAMP RIBBON CUTTING Fit Body Boot Camp in Laguna Niguel recently held its ribbon cutting and is open for business! Groupbased personal training workouts, working your entire
10
ST. ANNE SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE ON JANUARY 23RD
body, are orchestrated by a team of certified trainers.
You're invited to attend our Admissions Open
Research shows that shorter, more intense fitness
House for Preschool - Grade 8 on Thursday,
classes lead to faster and more sustainable weight
January 23, 2020 from 9:00-10:30 a.m.
loss. It turns out, what’s best for your schedule is also
Making the right school choice for your child is
best for your health. Fit Body Boot Camp is located at
a critical decision. Attending our Admissions Open
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | January 2020
House is a great way to experience life at St. Anne School. You will have the opportunity to get to know our academic administrain the classroom, and tour our beautiful campus. Our doors are open and we welcome you! For
more
information,
call
(949) 371-9932. RSVP: st-anne.org/openhouse
ST. ANNE SCHOOL PRESENTS: RUDY RUETTIGER - THE INSPIRATION BEHIND RUDY Millions have been inspired by the movie Rudy. Now let the man behind the movie inspire you! Most people know the story of Rudy, the small kid from Illinois determined to play football for Notre Dame despite having neither a strong academic nor athletic background. But not many know the full story. You can hear in his own words how Rudy Ruettiger succeeded in getting in to, and playing football for, Notre Dame, despite dozens of rejections... and how he shared his story with the world! Tuesday, January 14, from 6-7pm. RSVP: st-anne.org/events *Adults Only
We are always accepting submissions for announcements you’d like to see included in our Around Town
section.
Submissions
are
accepted via the Contact Us tab at LifestylePubs.com/LagunaNiguel.
C H A R L E S PA B ST
tors, witness our teachers in action
“BLUE DREAMS”, 30X15, OIL
“Make Your Life Beautiful” 220 Forest Ave, Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949-376-4244 thesignaturegallery.com
L AG U N A B E AC H - S COT TS DA L E - S A N TA F E January 2020 | Laguna Niguel Lifestyle
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TRAVEL DESTINATION
A H E A LT H I E R WAY TO CRUISE RIVERS EXTRA LARGE AMA MAGNA PROVIDES MORE SPACE, MORE CHOICE AND THE MOST DEVELOPED WELLNESS PROGRAM IN RIVER CRUISING
12
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | January 2020
ARTICLE CHRIS MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY AMAWATERWAYS
THE REVOLUTIONARY NEW SHIP AMA MAGNA COMBINES THE IMMERSIVE RIVER CRUISE EXPERIENCE WITH ATTRIBUTES OTHERWISE FOUND ONLY ON OCEAN CRUISES. As Europe’s largest riverboat, Magna also offers the full expression of its parent company’s wellness focus. On Magna, you can vacation without vacating your fitness regimen. In fact, you can conveniently start a fitness program with a respectable gym, river-view treadmills and spin cycles, daily yoga, health-conscious menus, and group fitness programs, bicycles available to check out, and high-intensity shore excursions enabling you to elevate your heart rate while exploring. Magna was custom built for a stretch of the Danube River with wider locks than elsewhere in Europe. The vessel is twice the size of the typical river cruise ship with only 20% more passengers. Capacity is 196. That means larger staterooms, multiple restaurants, a water sports dock off the back, and a fully developed wellness program that is the passion of co-owner and vice president Kristin Karst.
CONTINUED >
January 2020 | Laguna Niguel Lifestyle
13
TRAVEL DESTINATION
(CON TI N U ED)
“We are passionate advocates of living a healthy lifestyle, and we are always looking for new ways to enhance our wellness offerings that guests can enjoy while discovering the scenic landscapes and picturesque towns along Europe’s most iconic rivers,” said Karst. “Since introducing complimentary bicycles onboard in 2006, we have been leading the way in active river cruising.” Magna guests are delivered to the doorsteps of Budapest, Hungary; Vienna, Austria; Bratislava, Slovenia; and Passau, Germany, needing to unpack only once, as with other river cruises. But they can enjoy a wider menu of activities along with extra elbow room on the ship. A significant portion of that extra space is devoted to a legitimate fitness center with river-view treadmills and outside spin cycles. Yoga and fitness activities are regular parts of the itineraries. Dining is a highlight of all cruises. Ama means to make it tasty and healthy...on Magna and throughout its fleet. Healthy food options are part of all menus. There always are gluten-free, low-sodium and vegetarian choices. There are also selections like vitamin shots and freshly baked whole grain breads at breakfast and hydration stations with infused citrus and gemstone water. To be fair, a greater fitness focus is not unique. Every cruise line is offering more healthy menu choices, fitness classes have become a regular part of many itineraries, and some ocean cruise gyms resemble 24-hour fitness - but with a view. Ama has given it particular focus.
14
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | January 2020
REVOLUTIONARY SHIP Ralph Grizzle, author of The Avid Cruiser blog, says the Ama Magna experience is “very much akin to small ship ocean cruising… easily one of the best river cruises in MAGNA PORTS AND
Europe, if not the world.” Other professional reviewers and those on
ACTIVE EXCURSIONS
TripAdvisor also are giving Ama Magna kudos. “It’s all about the amazing use of space,” said
Expedia
Franchise
Partner
Elliot
+ Budapest, Hungary Castle Hill Hike
Finkleman of Ottawa, Canada. “Our room
+ Bratislava, Slovenia
had more storage than most ocean ships.
Coronation of Kings Walking
The decor is what you might expect from a
Tour or Castle Hike
hip, modern condo. It’s hard to find a flaw.
+ Vienna, Austria
The bathroom is practical and stunning. My
Vienna by Bike
wife Louise loved the lighting and mirrors.”
+ Linz, Austria
The roomier public areas allow guests
UNESCO Media Arts Walking
to break from the pack and also make the
Tour or Full-day Bike Tour
ship accommodating for groups and fami-
+ Passau, Germany
lies. The extra space and additional choice
City of Three Rivers Walking
take the travel industry’s fastest growing
Tour or Danube Bike Tour
niche up a notch...or two. After-dinner activities on the typical riverboat can be enjoyable but quite limited. Often the choice is listening to the piano player in the lounge or going on top, weather permitting, and gazing at a beautiful sunset as you float along. There are no Broadway shows or wee hours parties as they are not part of the river cruise experience, which rests on full days of exploring, which in itself accumulates thousands of steps on guests’ apps. But Magna’s extra space facilitates more choice. Lock constraints prevent Magna or a ship like it from navigating most of Europe’s rivers. But if you want to experience the fairytale stretch between Passua and Budapest, this is your best bet. To learn more about Ama Magna and the ports it visits, join us at 6 p.m. Jan. 9 at 23866 Aliso Creek Road, Laguna Niguel. As space is limited, please RSVP by calling (949) 273-5444.
January 2020 | Laguna Niguel Lifestyle
15
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Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | January 2020
January 2020 | Laguna Niguel Lifestyle
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Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | January 2020
POWER HE ALING THROUGH YOG A , MEDITATION, AND REIK I
because they want to change their bodies, but when they begin experiencing mental benefits, they realize that it is so much more than just physical transformation. That is where they get hooked because yoga is really for the mind to forget the body. The body just does its own thing, it’s along for the ride. The body does get a full workout. Yoga means union, mind, body, and spirit. Practicing yoga keeps you in alinement, you are grounded, your thoughts aren’t scattered, you have clarity, and you are more in control of your stress. You can step behind your thoughts and
AN INTERVIEW WITH ALEX DURHAM
approach stress from a different center. HOW DOES MEDITATION WORK?
ARTICLE MELONY BARBER
Mindfulness meditation is a guided meditation.
PHOTOGRAPHY KAREN REUTER
The three main steps are awareness, acceptance, and non-judgement. I like to start with breathwork, Alternate Nostril breathing (Nadi Shodhana). The
AS WE RING IN THE EXCITEMENT OF 2020, MANY
breath will keep you present as the breath can only
OF US ARE GIVING SERIOUS THOUGHT TO OUR
be now at this moment in time. Guided meditation
GOALS FOR WELLNESS. One of my own goals is to
practice is an excellent way to begin your practice,
learn the art of meditation. I interviewed Alex Durham,
and that could be taking a class or an app on your
a yoga, meditation, and reiki practitioner.
phone. Start by taking thirty minute classes and gradually increase your training time. Consistency is
HOW DID YOU BECOME A YOGI?
a great way to develop your practice.
22 years ago, I was living in London. I was so
Research for meditation and the brain has been
stressed working at a fast pace in the fashion indus-
rolling in steadily for years now, with new studies
try, I needed balance in my life. I was working out
coming out almost weekly that illustrate some unique
at the gym, but I was still extremely stressed. It’s
benefit of meditation. The practice appears to have
funny how your mother knows best, she said to me I
a fantastic variety of neurological benefits, from
needed to pull my energy in rather than spending my
changes in grey matter volume to reduced activity
energy outward. My mother suggested I take a yoga
in the ‘me’ centers of the brain to enhanced connec-
class, and I loved it. I was lucky enough to end up in
tivity between brain regions. Evidence also suggests
a class with an excellent teacher who was previously
that meditation helps relieve our subjective levels of
a dancer. She really drew me in, and I had an expe-
anxiety and depression and improve attention, con-
rience that was beyond anything I had ever experi-
centration, and overall psychological well-being.
enced at the gym. It could have gone the other way, I
CONTINUED >
was lucky to end up in this teacher’s class. You have to find a teacher that you love and can resonate with. After this first class, I knew this new yoga was for me. There were so many different classes to explore, restorative yoga, yin yoga, and pranayama (breathwork), it was exciting to try the various disciplines. WHAT BENEFITS DID YOU SEE BEYOND THE MENTAL CLARITY? In addition to the mental clarity, physically it is whole-body conditioning, toning, and definition in addition to mental benefits. Many people start yoga January 2020 | Laguna Niguel Lifestyle
19
POWER HEALING
(CON TI N U ED)
WHAT IS REIKI? Reiki is a therapy often described as palm healing or hands-on body healing. A Reiki practitioner places hands lightly on or over a patient’s body to facilitate the patient’s process of healing. Reiki combines the Japanese and Chinese word characters of ‘rei’ and ‘ki’ vital energy. Our body is composed not only of physical elements such as muscles, bones, nerves, arteries, organs, glands, etc. It also has a subtle energy system through life force energy flows. This ingenious energy system is composed of energy bodies that surround our physical body and assist us in processing our thoughts and emotions. The energy bodies have energy centers called chakras, which work like wheels that allow life force to circulate through the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual bodies. We also have energy meridians and nadis. These are like rivers or streams which carry our life force energy throughout our physical body, to nourish us and assist in balancing our bodies systems and functions. Our physical body is alive because of the life force energy that is flowing through it; if our life force is low or blocked, we are more likely to get sick. Still, if it’s high and free-flowing, we more easily maintain health and a feeling of well-being. One thing that disrupts and weakens the flow of life force energy is stress. Stress is often caused by conflicting thoughts and feelings that get lodged in the subtle energy system. These include fear, worry, doubt, anger, anxiety, etc. Reiki is a technique that helps the body in releasing stress and tension. Creating deep relaxation promotes healing and health. It gently and efficiently opens blocked meridians, nadis, and chakras, and clears the energy bodies, leaving you feeling relaxed and at peace. Alex Durham offers both private and group classes at Montage Laguna Beach, Miraval Spa Monarch Beach resort, and Align Pilates San Juan Capistrano. Call (949) 280-6534 or email alex@oursattva.com 20
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | January 2020
COMMON YOG A POSES The Warrior is great pose for developing strength in the legs and finding stability by keeping the hips in a balanced position. Align your feet so the front foot’s heel is in line with the arch of the back foot. Keeps the arms out at shoulder height and gaze out over the front fingers. Be sure to keep the front knee above the ankle, the back leg straight and the torso upright.
The Triangle Pose, or Trikonasana, is a standing yoga pose that tones the legs, reduces stress, and increases stability. The name refers to the triangular shape created by your body in the full version of the pose. It is a good stretch for the hamstrings and side body. More than just a simple stretch, the triangle pose improves overall balance and stability, both physically and mentally.
The Downward-Facing Dog, or Adho Mukha Svanasana, is one of yoga’s most widely recognized poses. It is a mild inversion that calms the nervous system, relieves stress, and offers the ultimate all-over, rejuvenating stretch. Pay attention to your breathing and use your inhale and exhale to focus your attention. Be sure to go slowly and always listen to your body’s limits.
If you are ready to dabble in the world of arm balances, the Crow Pose, or Bakasana, is a good place to start. This pose is great for strengthening your upper arms, forearms, and wrists. It will also improve your stability by strengthening your core, leading to improvedbalance and fullbody coordination. Remember to stay within your own limits and abilities. If you have any medical concerns, talk with your doctor before practicing yoga. January 2020 | Laguna Niguel Lifestyle
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Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | January 2020
January 2020 | Laguna Niguel Lifestyle
23
WHY PEDEGO E-BIKES ARE ALL THE RAGE
power to the pedal ARTICLE MIKE GERARD | PHOTOGRAPHY KAREN REUTER
24
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | January 2020
WE ALL REMEMBER THE PLAYFUL THRILL OF BIKE RIDING AS A CHILD. And most of us rode steadily through our college years. By that age, however, the bicycle was more a means of transportation and less for play. That was certainly the case for me. And, as I grew older, the bicycle became a symbol of exercise. My fun was lost. As an aging baby boomer, somehow, bicycling fell off my radar. I had a ten-speed hanging upside down from the ceiling of the garage for fifteen years. I finally sold it, flat tires and all, in a garage sale, circa 2016. It was a really great bike; but while I needed the exercise—and still do—I simply lost the desire to get out and ride. “Perhaps it’s the traffic,” I thought, trying to rationalize my lost aspiration. After all, I spent my high school years pedaling through the beautiful countryside of rural Pennsylvania. That was play and exercise! My meandering road trips lasted for hours and featured rolling hills, green farmlands, and expansive cornfields. Nothing at all like trying to navigate the chaotic disorder—and obvious danger—of Coast Highway through Laguna Beach. I finally resolved that there is just not enough time for biking. Most of us would agree that even getting to the gym is a challenge these days. I recently considered getting a new bike to take me to the gym. But then again, I countered, perhaps visiting the gym was the first step needed--even before bicycling. After all, sound fitness is needed to counter the inevitable headwinds and hills our Laguna Niguel topography presents. It seems, nowadays, anyone I know who rides bikes is all-in. Especially those my age. These cycling enthusiasts own expensive, lightweight, carbon-framed road bikes—with all the technical shoes and clothes to match. They carry GPS computers, super-insulated water bottles, and even turn-signaling gloves. My cycling friends are seriously dedicated, and I have tremendous respect for every one of them. I have similar admiration for the mountain bike crowd. They, too, are dedicated to their sport, spending all of their free time on the San Juan Trail—that is, when not traveling to Moab or Tahoe for their grander off-road fix. In my previous life, I was a career snow skier. And what attracted me to skiing was the same thing that attracts us all to bicycling. Sliding, rolling, surfing, or skating across the face of the earth—be it on snow, water, dirt, or asphalt—is a sensation like no other. It’s an unbridled feeling of freedom. The only thing that could top it, I suspect, is skydiving. But we’ll pass on that one. Back to the fundamental question: How can a busy, middle-aged husband and father smoothly transition back CONTINUED >
January 2020 | Laguna Niguel Lifestyle
25
POWER TO THE PEDAL
(CON TI N U ED)
into fitness? Answer: Danny Val at Pedego Electric Bikes on Coast Highway in Dana Point.
Finally, from a holistic standpoint, there is something very special about being outdoors and riding a bicycle—even if pedaling
I had the pleasure of tagging along with locals, Monica
is not your thing. In order to go straight while driving a car, you
Huston and Jason Fairbanks, who were enjoying an afternoon
have to constantly steer the wheel. Think about it. Riding a bicy-
ride around beautiful Dana Point Harbor on a couple of Danny’s
cle is the same, but you’re even more physically involved through
bikes. I was excited to get out on a bicycle again—even if just for
steering, leaning, balancing, and pedaling. In a spiritual sense, the
some fresh air and sunshine.
activity awakens awareness, fuels life energy, and synchronizes
Within 30 seconds, childhood was back! It was like hearing an
mind, body, and soul. That’s one reason studies show e-biking
old song. But the adult in me immediately understood the grown-up
improves mental performance, keeps seniors young, and even
benefits. I could make that ride to down to the harbor and climb the
alleviates symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
big hill home, no problem. In fact, in “PedalAssist” mode, the bike
Other direct health benefits include weight loss, stress reduction, and
shares the load as much or as little as you want. This was my big-
better sleep. It’s a fantastic way to lower blood pressure; and, according
gest revelation. I had always thought, with electric bikes, you had a
to the National Healthcare Provider Solutions, riding just 20 miles per
binary choice: either pedal or throttle. The fact that this feature gives
week may reduce your risk of coronary heart disease by 50 percent!
five different levels of gentle assistance as you pedal makes a huge
After experiencing a Pedego electric bike, I will definitely buy one.
difference in the fun factor! I finally see a transitional path to fitness.
It’s the perfect tool on anyone’s road back to fitness. Now I can ride
Pedego e-bikes can go up to fifty miles on a charge; and that
my bike to the gym—and enjoy every minute of it!
brings added confidence. Not only am I certain to make it back up Golden Lantern with ease, but I can now ride longer, farther, and
You can try a Pedego Electric Bike for free! Pedego Dana Point is located
faster than I would on any regular pedal bike. Also, it’s much easier to
at 34186 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite A in Dana Point. Call Danny Val (949)
ride with friends and family—regardless of what they’re riding.
481-2044 or visit pedegodanapoint.com
26
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | January 2020
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DANA POINT Mention this ad and receive a free gift when you purchase your very own PEDEGO! 34186 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point CA 92629 949-481-2044 | pedegodanapoint.com January 2020 | Laguna Niguel Lifestyle
27
HEALTHY LIFESTYLE
WO R KO U T S F O R YO U R MOODS NEW YEAR, NEW US. We don’t mean to be cliché, but is there really any better time for working on yourself than when Jan. 1 rolls around—whether you’re focused on your physical health or your mental health? It sure seems like the perfect time, but there will also be days when you’re just not quite feeling it. The holidays are over, the days are shorter and, let’s face it, there’s not really a ton to look forward to until spring sprouts. But, whatever
NEED A PICK-ME-UP, BUT DON’T QUITE
your mood is this time of year, there’s still an
HAVE THE ENERGY? THESE ACTIVITIES WILL
activity you can do that’s worthwhile—and
GET YOU MOVING AND OUT OF YOUR
will give you a boost! Here’s how to choose the right one.
POST-HOLIDAY FUNK
YO G A
FEELING ANXIOUS
A regular yoga practice can help to ease anxiety by increasing body awareness, reducing muscle tension, relieving stress and sharpening attention + concentration.
01 R AG D O L L Ragdoll pose is great for relaxation and to release tension. Stand tall + reach your arms up, then allow them to fall gently toward the floor. as you bend over
02 C H I L D ’ S P O S E This calming and restorative pose is a common beginner’s position. Starting from your knees, sit back on your heels then walk your arms forward, bringing your torso down until you can rest your forehead on the floor.
03 S AVA S A N A Relax one body part at a time, one muscle
ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN
28
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | January 2020
at a time + one thought at a time through a daily Savasana practice.
RUNNING There’s a reason people who are active runners describe something called a “runner’s high.” Studies show that aerobic exercises release
FEELING DOWN
mood-boosting endorphins.
BEGINNERS If you want to get into running but aren’t sure where to start, check out a couch-to-5K program to ease into it.
C A S UA L R U N N E R S Challenge yourself by switching up your running routine. Whether you’re changing your route or upping your distance, a new twist could give you a nice refresh.
ENTHUSIASTS Whether you’re into 10Ks or half marathons, consider signing up for a new race and decreasing your time.
When you feel like you’re in a rut with your workouts and just don’t feel motivated anymore, try something new and exciting! Rock climbing is a great way to introduce something different without it feeling like a workout.
01 C L I M B I N G GYM S Climbing gyms have been popping up everywhere as the sport becomes more mainstream + are a great option for those who prefer to be adventurous indoors.
02 B O U L D E R I N G Bouldering, great for developing power, is a type of rock climbing where the climber doesn’t use ropes or harnesses, generally done on a much smaller scale.
03 S H A P E U P Since climbing can use different muscles from traditional workouts, it’s important to keep up with strengthening those. Key areas to pay attention to include upper body, lower body, core, fingers and wrists.
CLIMBING
FEELING BORED
CONTINUED >
January 2020 | Laguna Niguel Lifestyle
29
HEALTHY LIFESTYLE
(CON TI N U ED)
When your head is full of thoughts, it Interval Training (HIIT) provides a break from that with short bursts of 100% focus followed by rest. Here’s a quick circuit.
01 KETTLEBELL SWINGS Do as many reps as possible in 45 seconds, followed by 15 seconds of rest.
02 H I G H K N E E S Climb it out for 45 seconds, followed by 15 seconds of rest.
03 P L A N K Hold your plank for 45 seconds, followed by 15 seconds of rest. Repeat the circuit three times for a quick workout that touches on strength, cardio + core.
HIIT
30
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | January 2020
FEELING STRESSED
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January 2020 | Laguna Niguel Lifestyle
31
32
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | January 2020
St. Anne School
An Independent Catholic School in Laguna Niguel
www.st-anne.org | @stanneknights 32451 Bear Brand Road, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 | Phone: 949-371-9932
Discovering Their Gifts
ADMISSIONS OPEN HOUSE | PRESCHOOL - GRADE 8 JANUARY 23, 2020 | 9:00-10:30 A.M. RSVP TODAY AT WWW.ST-ANNE.ORG/OPENHOUSE January 2020 | Laguna Niguel Lifestyle
33
JANUARY
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
1 -5
4
18-19
WINTERFEST OC
BRIDE WORLD COSTA MESA BRIDAL SHOW
SOCAL WORLD GUITAR SHOW
OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa
The 217th in a series of the largest
tradition returns! The forecast calls
The Costa Mesa Bridal Show by
guitar events on the west coast. If
for 18 days of snow in a winter won-
Bride World is SoCal’s biggest and
you have guitars, amplifiers, or other
derland of fun as Winter Fest OC. It
best wedding planning expo with
musical items to sell or trade, bring all
will run through Jan. 5, giving families
up to 150 vendors. It is held indoor
you can carry into the show. Many of
additional time in the new year to
at the OC Fair Event Center, next
the nation’s top foreign and domestic
enjoy more than 20 wintry activities
to the Pacific Amphitheater, with
buyers pay top prices for vintage,
that are back by popular demand.
parking
newer, used or rare gear. ocfair.com
WinterFestOC.com
Drive. BrideWorld.com
1-6
4-5
CAPISTRANO LIGHTS IN SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
BRIDECON WEDDING EXPO
Mission San Juan Capistrano
Don’t miss Bridecon, Southern
Team Gordo and the MS Society
The Mission will host Capistrano
California’s
Best
invite you to join our community
Lights
OC Fair and Event Center, Costa Mesa
Southern California’s largest winter
2019:
Experience
entrances
on
OC Fair & Events Center, Costa Mesa
Arlington
20
Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim
Biggest
and
13TH ANNUAL GORDON EANSOR CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT Mission Viejo Country Club
the
Wedding Expo of the year. This
of friends and neighbors passion-
Mission at Night featuring a nightly
2 day expo features the best
ate about ending MS forever. With
tree lighting and music program
selection of all things wedding
every golf stroke we take, and every
held through January 6, 2020. After
including exhibits, fashion shows,
dollar we raise, we're that much
the Mission closes, guests can
seminars,
closer. Together, we are stronger
take their complimentary down-
entertainment. Take advantage of
town San Juan Capistrano map
show discounts, samples, honey-
and discover the historic down-
moon getaways, door prizes, and
town district with plenty of holiday
a wedding gown giveaway. Make
shopping, dining, and wine tasting
your dream wedding come true.
all season long. missionsjc.com
premierbridalshows.com
DEC 31 - JAN 1
9-12
QUEEN MARY’S NEW YEAR’S EVE: PAST & PRESENT
2020 LOS ANGELES BOAT SHOW
demonstrations
and
than MS. More info: 213-550-7001.
23 ST. ANNE SCHOOL ADMISSIONS OPEN HOUSE
St. Anne School, Laguna Niguel
Admissions Open House is a great way to experience life at St. Anne School. You will have the opportunity
Fairplex, Pomona
to get to know our academic admin-
The Queen Mary, Long Beach, CA
See the all new 2020 boat models
istrators, witness the talents and
The Queen Mary’s New Year's Eve
making their West Coast debut! The
passions of our teachers in the class-
Past & Present invites revelers to travel
Los Angeles Boat Show is the pre-
room, and tour our beautiful cam-
back in time and voyage throughout
miere show featuring boats through-
pus. Open House is for Preschool
the ship’s uniquely themed decks and
out North America. For 64 years,
- Grade 8. To learn more, call (949)
ballrooms for spectacular live music,
this event has been the ultimate
371-9932 or visit st-anne.org
DJ's, dancers, and strolling entertain-
destination for boating and outdoor
ment. One of SoCal’s best fireworks
lifestyle enthusiasts, featuring sport
displays will light up the night sky
fishing boats, performance boats,
We are always accepting submissions
off the stern of the ship at midnight.
ski boats, cruisers, jet skis and more!
for events you'd like to see included
queenmary.com
losangelesboatshow.com
in our Calendar section. Submissions are accepted via the Contact Us tab at LifestylePubs.com/LagunaNiguel.
34
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | January 2020
ON AVERAGE... There are 273
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