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2026 RO BIN LO N G, CERTI FI ED PIL ATES INSTRUCTO R & FOU N DER O F LIN DY WELL FIN AN CIAL WELLN ESS A FOOD RESET FOR YOUR FAMILY

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Welcome to 2026 Hello Community! I am the new Publisher here at Santa Barbara Coast. First and foremost, I would like to thank Melissa Pedrazzini-Jordano for getting this publication off the ground, fielding a great team and showcasing what makes our eden by the beach a heaven on Earth. As I take the reins, I will continue the mission of spotlighting our family-forward community. A little about me. I’m a lifelong Californian. Born and raised in NorCal, I attended UCLA and lived in Los Angeles for nearly 25 years before moving to Santa Barbara 10 years ago with my wife and three daughters. One of my earliest memories of Santa Barbara was driving with my mother, father, and brothers on Highway 101 to Southern California to visit grandparents and uncles. I always knew we were getting close when we drove out of the Gaviota Tunnel and saw the ocean—then the mountains, palm trees, volleyball, and surf scenes of Santa Barbara. Spectacular. And I would be remiss to not mention the food, wine, and culture. Santa Barbara offers so much. As the calendar flips to a new year, I’m reflecting on the past year—what I can improve on and how I can be a better contributor to my family and community. Like many, I look at the new year as a chance to reset. This issue focuses on resetting health and wellness. From body and mind, to your wallet—and a couple tremendous stories about a local CEO Super Mom, Robin Long of Lindywell, and a Wonder Woman triathlete, Dr. Valerie Gerard. Wow! It’s an honor to be a part of the “crown jewel of California” and tell the stories of what makes us unique—the history, places, people—and the community that defines our culture. Please let me know your feedback and how I can continue to show the best of Santa Barbara.

January 2026 PUBLISHER

Andrew Schmoller | andrew.schmoller@citylifestyle.com M AN AG I N G E D I TO R

Samantha Durbin | samantha.durbin@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R

Jessica Dahl | jessica.dahl@citylifestyle.com S O C I AL M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R

Mim Jordano P U B L I S H E R AS S I STAN T

Sara Stevens CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Meaghan Clark Tiernan, Samantha Durbin, Dr. Valerie Girard, Collin Harmon C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R

Blake Bronstad

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

ANDREW SCHMOLLER, PUBLISHER @ S A N TA B A R B A R A C O A S T C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Santa Barbara Coast City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Santa Barbara Coast area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect

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Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Santa Barbara Coast City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

ICONIC

Iconic beachside living meets Triple Forbes Five-Star luxury on the American Riviera. Discover the quintessential California escape at Rosewood Miramar Beach this summer. +805 900 98388 rosewoodhotels.com/miramar rosewoodhotels.com

inside the issue JANUARY 20 2 6 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

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Featured

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Long Live Pilates

Robin Long’s anti-hustle, anti-perfectionist wellness vibe feels complelety 2026 (and beyond)

28 On the Cover

Departments

Robin Long, CEO of Lindywell, doing her thing at Butterfly Beach.

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

City List

Self Care FITNESS

Financial Buzz FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES

Must See FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES

Healthy Lifestyle WELLNESS

Local Limelight HEALTH + WELLNESS

Road Trip TRAVEL

Wealth Health

Wealth management team Harbor Hills shares a few actionable things you can do for a healthier financial future

Skin Deep

Acupuncturists offering facial treatments as holistic alternatives to mainstream fillers

A Food Reset for your Family

Post-holiday recovery tips + healthier fam-friendly restaurants

Photography: Blake Bronstad

Eat Right FOOD + BEVERAGE

Events

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JANUARY 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

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1: Alana Tillim and friend 2: Santa Barbara Dance Art’s Fashion in Motion event at Art & Soul 3: A few words from Alana 6: Artist Pedro De La Cruz Photography by Alejandro Navaroo

C I T Y SC E N E

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JACQUELINE PILLAR

8: Ivy Moliver at Ivy Cove’s event celebrating craftsmanship, community, and California luxury at Paraiso 9: Michael + Ian, Paraiso owners at Ivy Cove gathering 10: L to R: Friend, Mackenzie Nancarrow, Betsey O’Brien, Brittany Meadth, Sima Morrison, Ashley Hollister

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JANUARY 2026

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

Los Padres ForestWatch Launches Wine for Wilderness Passport The Wine for Wilderness Passport is your ticket to a full year of tasting, exploring, and supporting the wild places you love. Passport holders enjoy complimentary tastings at 24 participating wineries, each carefully selected for their sustainable practices, from Paso Robles, Edna Valley, and Santa Ynez Valley, through Santa Barbara and down to Ojai and Ventura. Every tasting room is paired with a nearby trail in Los Padres National Forest or surrounding public lands.

Photography by Los Padres ForestWatch

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Find a Non-invasive Body Reset at Body Sculpting Santa Barbara At Body Sculpting Santa Barbara, founder Josh Nissan, a Loma Linda University– trained physical therapist and body contouring specialist, delivers AI-enhanced non-invasive body contouring through proprietary stacking system—combining radiofrequency skin tightening, ultrasound cavitation, vacuum-assisted therapy, and laser sculpting—to achieve faster, longer-lasting fat reduction, cellulite smoothing, and skin tightening results trusted by clients.

Photography by Adobe Stock

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The Living Print Exhibit at the Museum of Natural History The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History’s new art exhibit invites guests to enjoy the artistic explorations of four contemporary printmakers using traditional techniques to capture the beauty and wonder of the natural world. The Living Print features the intricate botanical portraits of Latifat Apatira, the bold woodblock prints of Sara Woodburn, and masterful fish prints by Dwight Hwang and Mineo Ryuka Yamamoto. Visitors to the exhibit can try botanical rubbing methods in the workshop and watch artists’ methods in process videos.

Photography by Sara Woodburn

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PICKS FO

Y ’S TOP BU SI

We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

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CITY LIST

the

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Yoga Olada Yoga & Reformer Pilates oladalife.com Yoga Soup yogasoup.com Corepower Yoga corepoweryoga.com Santa Barbara Beach Yoga santabarbarabeachyoga.com Power of Your Om powerofyourom.com

Medical Spa Body Sculpting Santa Barbara bodysculptingsantabarbara.com Vein Specialists of Santa Barbara veinspecialistsofsantabarbara.com

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C I T Y LIST

Evolutions Medical & Day Spa evolutionsmedicalspa.com Rejuvalase Medical Spa rejuvalasesb.com Miramed Medical & Day Spa miramedanddayspa.com

This anti-hustle, anti-perfectionist wellness vibe feels complelety 2026 (and beyond)

Long Live Pilates Robin Long is a Pilates instructor, Nutrition Therapy practitioner, and author known for her down-to-earth approach to fitness and self-care. Long is also the founder and CEO of Lindywell, a highly rated global wellness app with over 450 workouts that emphasize realistic, busy-life health routines.

ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA DURBIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BLAKE BRONSTAD

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Robin began her journey as a Pilates instructor after graduating from Westmont. After she had moved around California and ended up back in Santa Barbara, she wanted to find a way to take her teaching online so she could keep her clients. She started recording Pilates workouts on her phone and sending them via email. Her early online program evolved into a blog called “The Balanced Life.” That blog turned into a membership-style website, where women could follow her wellness approach. Over time, the membership model became more robust, leading to the development of the Lindywell app. Sharing about her own struggle with body image and anxiety, and challenging the hardcore fitness industry, motivated Long to create something different. Rather than shaming people for missing workouts or doing them wrong, Lindywell encourages sustainable habits and kindness toward your body. “If you struggle or miss a day, choose grace over guilt and remember that you’re playing the long game,” Long says. “You can always start fresh and adapt. Perfection isn’t required to make progress.” Long designed Lindywell’s workouts for busy women, especially those who don’t have hours to exercise. Many classes are short (4-45 minutes) and don’t require equipment. Long’s mission isn’t just to help you look good; she wants to change how women relate to their bodies and fitness. Lindywell was built for real life, for women who have jobs, families, and limited time, but still want strength and joy. With breathwork exercises, recipes, and mindset mantras, Long’s book, Well to the Core, reminds me of other wellness books I’ve read.

Cameron Diaz’s The Body Book and Gisele Bündchen’s Lessons: My Path to a Meaningful Life. But here’s the main difference: those books were written by famous women who aren’t accessible; they’re aspirational. Long, your local Pilates instructor and mother of four, built a business following her passion. She values authenticity, balance, and community, and these qualities shape Lindywell’s culture. She’s not a famous actress or model. She’s you and me. But now that she’s a wellness CEO with Super Mom vibes. How does she do it all? She plans hard, practices realistic wellness, sets firm boundaries, and continues to build a company that reflects her values as a parent. Long’s whole approach is rooted in sustainability—for her body, her business, and her family. One sustainable habit Long recommends for 2026 is a daily 15-minute workout. “After more than a decade of teaching this approach through the Lindywell app (and seeing thousands of women transform through it), I can say with confidence that it works,” she says. “Committing to just 15 minutes helps you build the habit, but even more importantly, it shifts your identity. You start to see yourself as someone who moves her body and cares for her well-being every day.” Lindywell donates a portion of every membership to Girls on the Run and Pencils of Promise, nonprofits that support, empower, and educate women and girls worldwide. Join the movement at lindywell.com. Here are three Pilates moves from Long you can do now for a quick boost: CONTINUED >

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Toe Taps Lie on your back with your knees in tabletop position (at 90 degrees). Draw your belly toward your spine to engage your core and keep your collarbone open. As you inhale, hinge at the hip crease to tap your foot to the mat, while keeping your core engaged. Exhale and return to the starting position. Repeat 10 times, alternating legs.

The Hundred Inhale to prepare, and as you exhale, curl your head, neck, and chest off the mat and extend your legs at a 45-degree angle. Draw your belly button toward your spine to engage your core, then pump your arms up and down in a small but intentional motion. Hold the position as you pump your arms for 100 counts, inhaling for 5 counts and exhaling for 5 counts. This is a classic Pilates exercise known for strengthening the core.

Seated Spine Twist Sit tall with your legs extended in front of you. Feel free to add a slight bend to the knee if needed. Interlace your hands behind your head, relax your shoulders, and engage your core. Inhale to prepare, and as you exhale, rotate in your mid spine, keeping your elbows open. Inhale as you return to center and exhale as you twist to the left. Repeat 10 times and remember to sit tall and engage your core.

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ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA DURBIN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

wealth health Harbor Hills shares a few actionable things you can do for a healthier financial future What financial, business, or life priorities do you need to address this year? Now is an excellent time to think about the investing, saving, or budgeting methods you could apply toward specific objectives, from building your retirement fund to managing your taxes. The wealth management team at Harbor Hills offers more than planning. They offer a steady place that helps you make thoughtful decisions—quietly, and with intention. Harbor Hills utilizes AI-based tools in several ways to enhance operations, client service, and decision-making. Here are some financial health ideas to consider, and the team at Harbor Hills can help you get started: Can you contribute more to your retirement plans this year? The amount individuals can contribute to their 401(k) plans in 2025 increased to $23,500, up from $23,000 for 2024. Come January, check to see if amounts have changed for the new year. The IRA contribution limit for both Roth and traditional accounts for 2026 is $7,500, with a catch-up contribution of $1,100, for a total of $8,600 for those 50 and older Your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) may affect how much you can put into a Roth IRA. With a traditional IRA, you can contribute if you (or your spouse if filing jointly) have taxable compensation, but income limits are one factor in determining whether the contribution is tax-deductible. Remember, withdrawals from traditional IRAs are taxed as ordinary income, and if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty.

F IN A N CIA L BU Z Z | FI NANCE + LE GAL SE RVICE S

Roth IRA distributions must meet a fiveyear holding requirement and occur after age 59½ to qualify for tax-exempt and penalty-free withdrawal. Make a charitable gift. You can claim the deduction on your tax return, provided you follow the IRS guidelines and itemize your deductions with Schedule A. The paper trail is important here. If you give cash, you should consider documenting it. Some contributions can be demonstrated by a bank record, payroll deduction record, credit card statement, or written communication from the charity with the date and amount. Incidentally, the IRS does not equate a pledge with a donation. If you pledge $2,000 to a charity this year but only end up gifting $500, you can only deduct $500. You must write the check or make the gift using a credit card by the end of December. See if you can take a home office deduction for your small business. If you are a small-business owner, you may want to investigate this. You may be able to write off expenses linked to the portion of your home used to conduct your business. Before moving forward, consider working with a professional who is familiar with home-based businesses. Review your withholding status. Should it be adjusted due to any of the following factors? • You tend to pay the federal or state government at the end of each year. • You tend to get a federal tax refund each year. • You recently married or divorced. • You have a new job, and your earnings have been adjusted.

“ Harbor Hills utilizes AI - based tools in several ways to enhance operations, client ser vice, and decision - making.”

Consider the tax impact of any upcoming transactions. Are you planning to sell any real estate this year? Are you starting a business? Might any commissions or bonuses come your way in 2026? Do you anticipate selling an investment that is held outside of a tax-deferred account?

Keep in mind, this article is for informational purposes only, and not a replacement for real-life advice. Also, tax rules are constantly changing, and there is no guarantee that the tax landscape will remain the same in the years ahead. https://harbor-hills.com | 805.680.8879

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BEHIND WEALTH

THE BALANCE

H O W S A I G E P R I VAT E W E A LT H I S B R I N G I N G C L A R I T Y & C O N F I D E N C E T O F I N A N C I A L W E L L- B E I N G

ARTICLE BY SARA DEMARCUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATT DEMARCUS

M UST SE E | FI NANC E + LE GAL SE RVICE S

For Antonia La Rocca, financial well-being is inseparable from whole-person wellness. “If you don’t know where you are or where you want to go, life becomes more confusing and less optimal,” she says. “Clarity naturally reduces stress.” It’s a philosophy rooted not only in her decades of technical expertise, but in a lifetime of experience that shaped her into an advisor who leads with empathy as much as skill. Long before founding Saige Private Wealth Management in 2022, Antonia was unknowingly preparing for the work she does now. As a VIP Tour Guide at Disneyland during her studies at Loyola Marymount University, she learned to interact with people from all walks of life, training that would later become just as valuable as her academic credentials. After earning her degree in biology and chemistry, she moved into medical sales, eventually founding and selling her own medical services company. With the proceeds, she pursued a master’s degree in business taxation at USC, where she became the first in her cohort to secure a position with a Big Six accounting firm during the 1990 recession. There, she earned her CPA license and gained a deep understanding of how tax strategy shapes financial outcomes. Her transition into wealth management felt natural—an opportunity to combine analytics with advocacy. But after nearly three decades in the industry, Antonia realized that the traditional brokerage model limited her ability to serve as a true fiduciary. The pandemic crystallized what she had long felt: clients needed more personal, values-aligned guidance, free from the pressures of large institutions. Saige Private Wealth was founded on that belief. At Saige, financial planning is more than a service; it’s a wellness practice. Antonia sees financial clarity as a stabilizing force that supports emotional balance, family harmony, and peace of mind. “Your finances are a major part of your ability to live the life you wish for,” she says. “Understanding where you stand and where you want to go naturally reduces stress.” Her perspective is enriched by her current master’s studies in gerontology at USC. By understanding the emotional and practical realities of aging, she’s able to help clients prepare for long-term needs, caregiving responsibilities, legacy planning, and the transitions that accompany each stage of life. “Goals and needs shift as we age,” she says. “By understanding that journey, we can help clients feel secure and satisfied at every point.” The heart of Saige’s approach lies in aligning financial strategies with personal values—not just income or net worth. Antonia and her all-female, bilingual team prioritize listening deeply, educating thoughtfully, and creating plans that reflect each client’s life goals. One meaningful example is the story of “Megan,” a single mother and attorney whom the team supported for more than a decade. Saige helped her navigate benefit decisions, plan for her daughter’s education, and prepare for long-term needs. When Megan was diagnosed with advanced lung cancer just

as she was expecting her first grandchild, Saige guided her and her daughter through disability claims, long-term care benefits, estate documents, and end-of-life decisions with clarity and compassion. After Megan’s passing, Saige continued to support her daughter and young family, helping them step into their next chapter with confidence. It is this long-view, relationship-centered approach— one that honors the emotional side of financial life—that defines Saige. Santa Barbara is more than the home of Saige’s office; it’s a reflection of the firm’s philosophy. “True wealth is rooted in intentional living,” Antonia says. “It’s prioritizing time with family, cultivating community, and enjoying the place you call home.” Two-thirds of the Saige team were born and raised in Santa Barbara, giving the firm a deep connection to the Central Coast’s culture and values. They actively support local organizations, including the SB International Film Festival, the Children’s Creative Project, and seasonal initiatives with the SB Food Bank. While Saige serves clients nationwide, the region’s emphasis on balance, purpose, and community shapes the firm’s values-based approach everywhere. For anyone looking to strengthen their financial well-being in the new year, Antonia recommends beginning not with a spreadsheet, but with self-reflection. “Take a breath and ask what you want this year to feel like,” she says. “Then connect that feeling to your financial habits.” Her advice is simple, accessible, and grounded in the belief that financial health is an ongoing practice: • Refresh your goals to ensure they reflect what matters most now. • Simplify your financial life; fewer accounts, clearer systems, less clutter. • Plan intentionally, choosing small, consistent steps over big, stressful leaps. • Give yourself grace—financial wellness is a journey, not a race. For Antonia, “true wealth” has a beautifully grounded definition: “Peace of mind. It’s generosity, security, purpose, and the clarity to recognize when you already have enough.” In a season centered on renewal, Saige Private Wealth invites clients to view financial planning not as a task but as a path toward whole-person well-being—one where clarity brings calm, confidence brings balance, and every decision aligns with the life they truly want to live. Saige Private Wealth Management | 805-456-2400 | info@ sagepwm.com Securities offered through Sanctuary Securities, Inc., Member FINRA, SIPC. Advisory services offered through Sanctuary Advisors, LLC., an SEC Registered Investment Adviser. Saige Private Wealth is a DBA of Sanctuary Securities, Inc. and Sanctuary Advisors, LLC.

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/SA N TA B A RB A R AC OASTCA

Skin Deep ACUPUNCTURISTS OFFERING FACIAL TREATMENTS AS HOLISTIC ALTERNATIVES TO MAINSTREAM FILLERS

January is always a time for reflection, reset, and refinement. While New Year’s resolutions are notoriously abandoned, this season can still be an opportunity to explore practices that help the whole you. Cosmetic acupuncture has been taught for decades, Claudia Ward of Beyond Acupuncture reminds me. But it’s having a resurgence with local L.Ac. practitioners who focus on the whole body. Meet a few of them.

Dr. Sophie Harris DACM, L.Ac Lolee Wellness Dr. Sophie Harris has been a fan of acupuncture since she was seven. Drawn to helping women look and feel their best, cosmetic acupuncture was one of the first things she offered when she opened her Santa Barbara practice in 2020. Fascinated by the natural aging process and how best to support patients at every stage of womanhood, her treatment goes beyond the surface to focus on overall wellness. “We’re enhancing what you already have and making you feel more like yourself,” she says. Each patient receives a curated, personalized plan that addresses diet, lifestyle, and nervous system regulation to treat the body from the inside out. “Our health shines through our skin,” she says. “If other areas are depleted, it’s going to show up somewhere.” Sessions begin with gua sha, followed by needle insertion, red light therapy, and cupping. Sophie recommends a 10-week course of treatment, once a week, then monthly maintenance for a year. loleewellness.com

ARTICLE BY MEAGHAN CLARK TIERNAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DRESDEN HOLDEN, SEE CREATURE PHOTOGRAPHY

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | WE LLN E SS

Jetta Harris, L.Ac., Santa Barbara Family Wellness A Santa Barbara Independent Best of Acupuncture winner, Jetta Harris, L.Ac., has been practicing in the region for over a decade and introduced facial acupuncture last year. An advocate of women’s health, Harris incorporates gua sha on the neck, face, and scalp in each of her facial appointments. “We can’t just do needles on the face, we need to support the body from the inside out,” she says. “I really believe that if you’re balanced, it’s going to show in your skin.” Facial appointments are full-body treatments that cover the entire system to ground energy. Each micro-trauma helps stimulate collagen and elastin production and relaxes tension that might cause pulling or sagging in the skin. The caveat, Harris emphasises, is that in order to see results with facial acupuncture, consistency is key. She recommended 10-12 visits for a course of treatment. sbfamilywellness.com

Dresden Holden, L.Ac., Dresden Body and Wellness Dresden has been practicing acupuncture since 2018 and offers microneedling, herbs, and skincare in addition to her practice that focuses on fertility, women’s health, and orthopedic injuries. Her facial rejuvenation includes body and facial acupuncture, red light therapy, and facial massage to support lymphatic drainage. While she knows that interest may be piqued for those seeking alternatives to potentially toxic fillers, she wants to remind patients that her role is to treat the whole body. “Acupuncture is not going to be a facelift,” she says. “But [it] reduces the stress in the face to help support fewer lines and increase blood flow [and] to increase overall health.” “In a perfect world, someone is doing both acupuncture for body alignment, muscle health, and balance, and throwing in microneedling for skin health and building up the layers of the skin.”

“We can’t just do needles on the face, we need to support the body from the inside out.

dresdenholden.com JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/SA N TA B A RB A R AC OASTCA

SUPER WOMAN ARTICLE BY DR. VALERIE GIRARD | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

When I was 70, I registered for the Santa Barbara Triathlon, an annual race held in August at East Beach. Both professional and amateur athletes eagerly anticipate competing in this event. I no longer run, but fortunately, the event includes the aquabike race, consisting of a one-mile ocean swim followed by a 34-mile bike ride through the hills of Montecito and Carpinteria. Having competed in this event forty years earlier, I was prepared to train with both pool and ocean mile swims, as well as riding 30-40 miles a week on flat and steep terrains. Maintaining my yoga practice was also essential. My watch tracked my efforts to motivate improvement. Diet was also important, and I focused on lean meats, plenty of vegetables, and healthy carbs, along with proper nutritional supplementation. The added benefit? You guessed it: weight loss. Even better, eating well and training consistently led to the best sleep I’ve had in years, which boosted my overall energy levels. Another crucial element in my training was engaging in positive self-talk. Swimming a mile in the ocean demands inner motivation. There were days when the ocean was a cold 64˚and choppy. Can you say resistance? But once I reached the first buoy, my inner coaching began.

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HEALT H + WE LLN E SS

“Oh, just go to the next buoy.” “Why not swim 500 yards, then go in?” “Okay, you made it here, how about three more buoys?” This self-talk continued until I completed my mile. While riding up Gibraltar Road, I visualized ascending Toro Canyon, with its five steep curves, making sure my thoughts were positive and encouraging. I often called Fridays my “therapy ride,” releasing the week’s challenges to the wind as I zoomed downhill. By summer’s end, I was psyched and ready. I loved every minute of the race, even the 7 a.m. swim. Crossing the finish line was one of the most joyful moments of my life. I felt exuberant and grateful that my body allowed me to compete. Are you inspired? Great! Now, what’s your goal this year? Dr. Valerie Girard operates a family chiropractic practice that covers nutrition, chronic health issues, pain relief, sports medicine, holistic and natural health care, cold laser therapy, and much more. She has also authored the books “REcover Quickly From Surgery” and “Tails of the Miraculous.” drvaleriegirard.com

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ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA DURBIN

century, the Pacific Coast Railway stopped right across the street, bringing travelers and celebrities to the central coast and to the resort, named Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort around the 1930s. A therapeutic center staffed with doctors and nurses then, people have always journeyed there for mineral water treatments that helped ease aches, pains, arthritis, and other ailments. The resort spans 100 acres of forest, hills, and meadows. Hillside hot tubs are dotted around a majestic nook where native plants and bird songs accompany soothing soaks. Between your in-room tub, the hillside tubs, the pool, and the oasis lagoon—a private, large tub that fits up to 20 guests and is fantastic for kids—you’ll be satiated at the end of the day. And sometimes it only takes a day to get that ultra-relaxed effect. On-site yoga. Spa treatments. Biking under tree canopies to the beach. Seasonal fresh restaurants. A happy staff. Morning coffee and sunset wood-fire pizzas at the Secret Garden just over the Green Sycamore Bridge—can I extend my stay?

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DISTINCTIVE RESORTS, SAMANTHA DURBIN

California is endowed with hot springs throughout the state. One of my favorites, Sycamore Mineral Springs, is just 1.5 hours north in quintessential beach town Avila Beach. If you’re seeking warm, restorative waters a bike ride away from chilly Pacific waves, Sycamore Mineral Springs is bliss. It feels close yet far enough for a relaxing solo escape or a mellow stay with family, friends, or your dog. With 72 guest rooms and suites, there’s also a private 3-bedroom guesthouse. All accommodations include hot mineral spring tubs on private balconies or patios. When I’m about 15 minutes away, I call the resort to start filling my tub so I can soak as soon as I enter my room. And what’s that musky smell? It’s normal; it’s the natural sulfur aroma from the mineral-rich hot tub water. Sycamore Springs, as locals call it, is over 100 years old. In 1886, two prospectors seeking oil instead found white hot sulphur mineral water where the resort stands. They didn’t find “liquid gold,” but they’d found curative waters where they could build a spa. In the early 20th

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W h e n I ’m a b o u t 1 5 m i n u t e s a w ay, I c a l l t h e r e s o r t t o s t a r t f i l l i n g my tub so I can soak as soon a s I e n t e r my r o o m .

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The holiday season has a way of pulling us into a joyful whirlwind of food, family, and celebration. There are warm desserts at every gathering, overflowing tables, and second helpings of those once-a-year dishes. But when the holidays quiet down, many crave a reset. That doesn’t mean undoing all the fun, it means easing back into a routine that supports feeling good physically and emotionally. A gentle holiday recovery is all about slowing down, being intentional, and making small changes that help everyone feel more balanced. Pairing mindful eating with simple daily habits can make the transition to everyday life smoother and more enjoyable for the entire family.

EAT R IGH T | FO O D + BEVE RAGE

ARTICLE BY COLLIN HARMON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

A FOOD RESET FOR YOUR FAMILY

MINDFUL EATING

A powerful way to make healthy eating sustainable is through mindful eating, which encourages slowing down and paying attention to how food makes you feel. Invite everyone in the family to take a breath before eating, to notice the colors, textures, and smells of their food. Eating slowly allows time for fullness cues to kick in and helps prevent overeating. Planning balanced meals together can also support healthier choices. When kids are involved in picking vegetables, assembling salads, or helping in the kitchen, they feel more ownership over what they eat. This creates a more positive and cooperative environment around food. Finally, establishing regular meal rhythms can reduce stress and mindless snacking. When families sit down to eat together without distractions like phones or television, meals become calmer and more enjoyable.

WHERE TO EAT HEALTHIER LOCALLY

Santa Barbara has some wonderful spots that make it easy to practice these habits even when eating out. Backyard Bowls serves nourishing acai bowls, smoothies, and other plant-forward dishes made with seasonal, organic ingredients. It’s a great spot for families to enjoy a bright, healthy breakfast or a refreshing afternoon treat. Natural Cafe is another local favorite offering fresh Californian fare including salads, veggie sandwiches, and smoothies. The menu is approachable for kids while giving parents wholesome, satisfying options. For lunch or dinner, the Savoy Cafe is known for its pastries, sandwiches, and an impressive salad bar with more than 40 ingredients offering a mix of fresh vegetables, proteins like wild salmon and organic tofu, and plenty of ways to build a balanced plate.

POST-HOLIDAY RECOVERY TIPS

One of the most effective ways to support your body after the holidays is to focus on hydration. Festive drinks, sugary treats, and busy schedules often push water to the sidelines. Encouraging the whole family to drink more water can boost energy and support digestion. Adding lemon, cucumber slices, or berries can make it more appealing, especially for kids. Gentle movement is another powerful way to reset. Family walks after dinner, beach strolls, or weekend hikes can help bring a sense of calm back into daily life. Movement doesn’t have to be about burning calories. It can simply be about reconnecting with your body and spending time together. Another valuable practice is to reestablish sleep rhythms. Late nights and unpredictable schedules can make everyone feel off. Returning to consistent bedtime routines can improve mood, energy, and focus, especially for kids heading back to school after the break. Finally, release guilt. Enjoying the holidays fully does not mean you have done something wrong. Letting go of that pressure allows space to focus on how you want to feel now. The goal is not perfection but creating a sense of balance.

BRING ON BALANCE

Hydration, movement, and mindful eating can create a foundation for lasting well-being. Santa Barbara’s abundance of nourishing restaurants makes it even easier to bring these habits into daily life without sacrificing enjoyment. This winter, let the reset be gentle and something the whole family can truly enjoy.

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JANUARY 2026

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ZooLights @santabarbarazoo Santa Barbara Zoo | 4:30 PM See the Zoo in a whole new light! Enjoy this immersive experience featuring thousands of handcrafted silk-covered lanterns aglow with more than 50,000 LED bulbs. Walk through the Zoo and enjoy the illuminated lanterns showcasing animal and nature scenes that represent wild places from around the world. Proceeds directly benefit animal care and conservation science at the Santa Barbara Zoo. U NT I L F E BRUA RY 1 ST

Seaside Sock Skating @moxisb MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation | 10:00 AM This seasonal exhibit invites kids and adults to kick off their shoes and slide across a specialty tile floor that mimics ice without the chill. Built out of artificial ice tiles that have a real-ice feel, the special rink gives visitors a chance to slip, slide, and glide just like real ice skating. Included with museum admission. (Don’t forget your socks!) JA NUA RY 4 T H

Kids Eat Free on Sundays! @lapalomasb La Paloma Cafe, 702 Anacapa Street | 10:30 AM Sundays are for family time! Bring the whole crew and enjoy a relaxed meal together—because every Sunday, kids eat free with the purchase of an adult entrée per kid. Good food, easy vibes, and happy little diners. Available for kids 10 yrs and younger. JA NUA RY 1 0 T H

Kids Helping Kids Annual Benefit @khksb The Arlington Theatre | 7:00 PM Celebrate 20 years of student-led impact with Kids Helping Kids Santa Barbara at this milestone benefit concert. Experience rising country star Anne Wilson, a GRAMMY-nominated artist known for her breakout hit “My Jesus” and acclaimed album REBEL. All proceeds from this special 20th Anniversary event support children overcoming physical, emotional, and economic challenges both locally and globally. CONTINUED >

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Santa Barbara Symphony Beethoven Piano Concerto Marathon @sbsymphony The Granada Theatre | 7:30 PM Alongside his Symphonies, the Piano Concertos of Beethoven have been towering masterworks for two centuries. Nir Kabaretti and The Symphony present all five of Beethoven’s Concertos across a single weekend. From the youthful First Piano Concerto, composed at age 25, to the grand “Emperor” Concerto written in the war-torn Vienna of 1809. Each is performed by a medalist from a prestigious international piano competition. JA NUA RY 2 9 T H

Mania: The ABBA Tribute @loberotheatre Lobero Theatre | 7:30 PM Featuring an extraordinary cast of talented musicians and performers, Mania: The ABBA Tribute delivers an authentic and unforgettable tribute to the legendary Swedish band that has captured the hearts of fans for generations. With stunning costumes, energetic choreography, and impeccable musicianship, Mania recreates the magic of ABBA’s music in all its glory.

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