what’sinside 9 Natural Options The Return of Women’s Circles Integrative Medicine Peptides: Health Bene ts Beyond Weight Loss Drugs 11 Through the Generations Rewilding For Nervous System Repair 19 Fresh Cuisine Blue Zones Palm Springs Certi es First Restaurant 17 Desert Events Woman’s Show Returns to Agua Caliente Resort 20 Fitness The Seasons of Your Fitness Journey 15 Medical News Reclaiming Intimacy: Root Causes of ED 4 http://www.deserthealthnews.com/ January/February 2026 We are avid enthusiasts of our valley’s mineral hot springs for the many health benefits they deliver. Our very first edition of Desert Health in 2011 featured the second annual Miracle Hill Spa Tour, and in 2023, we published a special insert, “Hidden Gems of Desert Hot Springs.” Miracle Hill is where you’ll find the collection of spas and resorts in DHS centered around the healing richness of the geothermal aquifer. Only on Miracle Hill can you experience the silky-smooth, completely odorless mineral water, rich in calcium, magnesium, silica, lithium, potassium and hundreds of trace minerals. This unique blend creates an exceptional, healing and rejuvenating experience that has drawn hot water enthusiasts from around the globe for decades. With the focus on thermal therapies as a worldwide wellness trend, the historic area has experienced a renaissance with many properties reimagined and renovated into boutique retreats. Now is the perfect time to experience them firsthand as the exclusive tour of these retreats returns after a ten-year hiatus. This year’s Miracle Hill Spa Tour & Wellness Weekend is bigger and better than ever. The tour takes place on Thursday, January 29, from 3 – 7 p.m., and features 15 unique properties from iconic treasures like Two Bunch Palms and El Morocco Inn, to newcomers like The Good House, Acres Landing Airstream glamping and architectural gem, Hope Springs Resort. Friday through Sunday features a variety of immersive experiences from complimentary wellness lectures and events to promotionally priced classes, day passes and spa treatments. A select number of properties are also offering room rate specials. Presented by the Miracle Hill Spas Association in collaboration with the City of Desert Hot Springs, the Spa Tour offers the rare opportunity to tour multiple facilities, enjoy Continued on page 21 Continued on page 22 Explore a weekend of wellness By Lauren Del Sarto Explore The Spring (top) and Two Bunch Palms (bottom) on the Spa Tour Wellness Weekend. Learn more on page 13 Meet Edith Jones-Poland, M.D. Family and Integrative Care Physician Looking for an integrative primary care physician? Where did 2025 go? Doesn’t it feel like time is moving way too fast? Maybe I’m just getting older. That’s what happens, right? They say the childlike mind enjoys many new experiences, recording each fascinating moment and making time feel slower. Adult life, on the other hand, is full of routine. The accomplished mind processes familiar things more quickly and records fewer new memories, making time blur and speed up. But, in today’s world, our adult minds are experiencing many new things; some thrilling and others intoxicating. Technological innovation is moving at the speed of light, with convenience as a primary goal. With anything at our fingertips, everything takes no time at all. Progress seems to be dissipating time, and it can feel challenging to keep up. As the lines between real and unreal, truth and fiction, and right and wrong continue to blur, it is essential to stay true to our core and to remember that everything is a choice. So, let’s choose to make this year great! Here are some simple strategies to consider: Take time. Spend more time in the physical world and see if that helps slow down your days and create more joy. Get out of your phone or computer and explore the world around you. Take a walk through a green space or on a hiking trail. Plan a trip and immerse yourself in a foreign culture. Write a letter to a friend, with a pen and paper. Dance more – in your living room or under the stars. Choose your perspective. While we can’t control what happens around us, we can control the attitude we bring to it, and that attitude quietly shapes the quality of our lives. Make It Great!
www.promedxp.com www.DesertHealthNews.com January/February 2026 Desert Health® The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 2 Lauren Del Sarto* FOUNDER/PUBLISHER An Independent Publication www.DesertHealthNews.com lauren@deserthealthnews.com • (760) 238.0245 @DesertHealthNews Distribution: Desert Health is distributed at 350+ locations throughout the Coachella Valley, including but not limited to, grocery stores, doctors’ offices, cafes and restaurants, spas, fitness centers and clubhouses. Please call for delivery to your retail location. Desert Health® is a California Corporation. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or in part, without the written consent of the Publisher is prohibited. The opinions and views expressed in these pages are those of the writer or persons interviewed and not necessarily those of Desert Health®. Desert Health® hereby expressly limits its liability resulting from any and all misprints, errors and/or inaccuracies any advertisement or editorial may contain. This publication is printed on paper sourced from sustainable forests and farms. Thank you to the Desert Health® team and all our marketing partners! Home delivery subscriptions available. Call (760) 238.0245. Get free delivery to your place of business. MADE POSSIBLE BY OUR ADVERTISERS THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING THEIR BUSINESSES! Trish Lounsbury DISTRIBUTION Benjamin Katz WEB MASTER benjaminkatzcreative.com Doris Steadman A LITTLE OF EVERYTHING Carlotta Rinke,* MD, MBA LEAD EDITOR James Thomas DISTRIBUTION Heather McKay GRAPHIC DESIGN mkaydesign.com *Photo by Lani Garfield MOST RELIABLE NON-EMERGENCY MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION AMERICA’S #1 PROMEDXP NON-EMERGENCY MEDXP TRANSPORTATION PROMEDXP (888) 769-7956 www.promedxp.com CALL/TEXT PROMEDXP® takes care of all aspects of travel booking coordination, transportation, trip monitoring, and additional services with utmost efficiency and professionalism. WHY CHOOSE US OVER UBER, LYFT AND OTHER NEMT? AtPROMEDXP®we are committed to providing safe and reliable non-emergency medical transportation services to our clients. Our team understands the unique needs and challenges that patients and their families face when it comes to transportation to medical appointments, treatments, and procedures. PROMEDXP WHO WE SERVE Available throughout USA (Includes HI, AK & PR) Licensed Medical Professionals Courtesy Call Day Before Appointment Lobby Wait (Optional) Post Surgery Stay (Optional) Available Weekends & Holidays PROMEDXP PROMEDXP Self-Pay Passengers Dialysis Clinics Hospitals & Medical Facilities Personal Injury Law Firms Veterans Assisted Living & Senior Communities Case Managers & Social Workers Airports We Match Licensed Competitor Rates Get the best service — without paying more. Punctual, Professional, and Patient-Focused! Return to Simplicity I love exploring the themes of each new edition. While never planned, they often come together organically, providing a pulse of where people are according to the practitioners who care for them. A common theme in this edition is a return to simplicity. Life is not for the faint of heart, and with time moving at warped speeds (p.1), we can all use a pause. Within our inspirational pages, you’ll find medical doctors sharing the benefits of simply walking (p.3), naturopathic doctors advising bite-sized changes (p.8), oriental medicine doctors encouraging a reset through mindfulness (p.8), and fitness coaches suggesting we honor the seasons of our fitness journey (p.15). We take you to the farm for a nutritious feast (p.16) and introduce you to the first Blue Zones-certified restaurant in Palm Springs (p.17). Take time to make the heavenly soup recipe they shared, and get inspired by all the good they are doing in our community. In “Living Wellness,” Jennifer Di Francesco introduces “rewilding,” a return to nature which seems to call when we need her most (p.19). As was my recent trip to the sea, simply to be. Earth’s elements can be our most powerful remedies, and the thermal springs of Miracle Hill are no exception. Come explore (p.1). Our beautiful desert offers so many opportunities to return to simplicity. May this theme remain with us throughout the year — and throughout our lives. Make it a miraculous 2026!
Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 3 Health Care Leaders Inspire Next Gen Workforce Coachella Valley health care leaders are ensuring that local students know there is a place for them in the health care workforce upon graduation. Two recent events exemplify this effort: “Let’s Get Psyched!” hosted by OneFuture’s Integrated Health Careers Alignment Team and a new Lab Lecture series launched by Eisenhower Health. On November 5, 2025, 170 high school students from health pathway programs at eight schools across our valley’s three K-12 districts spent the day on College of the Desert’s main campus. They interacted with behavioral health professionals from Riverside University Health System– Behavioral Health, Jewish Family Services of the Desert, Desert Insight Family Therapy, and Palm Springs Unified School District’s Behavioral Health department. Community partners included Desert Healthcare District, Health Career Connection, Olive Crest and Vision y Compromiso. In addition, students had the opportunity to tour health pathway programs at the college and meet COD and CSUSB-Palm Desert faculty to learn about education pathways that can prepare them for careers. The day began with a warm welcome from COD mascot Rodney the Roadrunner and CSUSB’s Cody the Coyote. Then, Julie Houston gave an inspiring keynote talk, “Finding Your Ikigai” (see p.19 for more), followed by a faculty panel, and popular student-to-professional panel featuring COD and CSUSB alumni who are local health care professionals. Students engaged in breakout sessions, including "Get Psyched for Your Career," hands-on nursing simulations, kinesiology demonstrations and social work discussions. Students could connect with professionals and explore college pathways during lunch. A post-event survey showed that 99% of the students now understand the different types of behavioral health careers available, and the education programs to help them get there. One student shared, “This event was amazing. As a senior exploring the campus… it is nice to see where I’ll be and imagine my future here.” Two weeks later, Eisenhower Health launched their new four-part Lab Lecture Series to introduce health academy seniors to the wide range of career opportunities in their network, from direct patient care positions to health care administration and nonclinical opportunities. Ninety high school seniors from eight high schools gathered at the Annenberg Center for Health Sciences for a two-hour program that included dinner and three short keynote presentations. Students could also participate in tabletop networking with staff from a dozen hospital departments, including public health, physical therapy, oncology/infusion and nutrition. The impactful series bringing students and professionals together continues January 14, March 18 and May 13. Kim McNulty is vice president regional strategy with OneFuture Coachella Valley and can be reached at kim@onefuturecv.org. As a physician and health coach, I regularly educate patients and clients on how the simplest habits often create the biggest changes in health. Walking is one of those habits. It’s accessible, sustainable and scientifically backed. High-quality research from the past few years proves that walking is a powerful intervention for metabolic health, fat loss, cardiovascular and cognitive health, and immune function. A 2021JAMA Network open study found that adults who walked more had significantly lower all-cause mortality, with meaningful benefit beginning around 7,000 steps per day.¬ Metabolic health may be where the benefits of walking are most pronounced. Post-meal glucose spikes contribute to insulin resistance over time. A 2023 systematic review in Sports Medicine found that short walks after meals significantly reduced glucose levels compared to inactivity.® Muscle contractions during walking help draw glucose into cells without needing as much insulin, which keeps blood sugar steadier throughout the day and reduces glucose that might otherwise be stored as fat. When done regularly, this can notably improve long-term metabolic health. Walking also has measurable effects on body composition. It increases daily energy expenditure without raising cortisol, which helps maintain muscle while supporting fat loss. A 2022 study published inNutrients shows that regular walking reduces total body and visceral fat, even without a formal workout program.¯ Walking supports cardiovascular, cognitive and immune health. A 2023 article published in the British Journal of Cardiac Nursing found that adults who walked regularly had lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure than those who remained inactive, contributing to a lower risk of heart disease.° A systematic review published in 2025 in theAmerican Journal of Health Promotion suggests that structured walking programs may improve several cognitive abilities in older adults, especially executive function and memory.± Findings from a 2023 review inGeroScience show that walking positively affects immune function by changing how immune cells circulate in the body and by influencing the signals that control inflammation.² Over time, these small changes strengthen the systems that keep us healthy and independent. The most effective approach is not to cram 10,000 steps into a single session. Our bodies respond best to movement spread throughout the day. Five to ten minutes every couple hours is much more impactful than one long walk.³ Some simple strategies: Choose a daily step goal that feels realistic for your lifestyle. Add a short walk after each meal to curb blood sugar spikes, support digestion and improve mood. Create a short morning or evening routine with your partner or a friend to add consistency and fun. Look for chances to move more often rather than waiting for a large block of time. Walking may not be trendy or sexy, but it can change your life. With consistency, it’s one of the most effective tools we have for a more efficient metabolism, improved body composition and better overall health. Dr. Rachel Felber is a Coachella Valley physician and owner of Health Yourself, a company that provides online health and strength coaching and consulting to women of all ages. Rachel@HealthYourselfToday.com. References: 1) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34477847/; 2) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36715875/; 3) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm. nih.gov/35276986/; 4) https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7616014/; 5) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40165427/; 6) https:// pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10643563/; 7) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40972791/ www.DesertHealthNews.com January/February 2026 Matthew Davis, lead faculty for the Desert Mirage High School Health Academy, and his students explore “Let’s Get Psyched!” In the Coachella Valley. Choose the When comparing 2024 Medicare.gov data from Coachella Valley hospitals. In an emergency, every minute matters. At Desert Care Network, we’re committed to delivering quality care – fast. With three locations in the Desert, we’re here, close to home, with the medical care you need when you need it most. And that’s just the beginning. • Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs • JFK Memorial Hospital in Indio • Hi-Desert Medical Center in Joshua Tree Walking: An Underrated Health Tool By Rachel Felber, MD
www.cvvim.org www.DesertHealthNews.com January/February 2026 Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 4 www.capcomts.com www.drmayakato.com Schedule Your Consultation 760-592-7310 36867 Cook St., Ste 103 Palm Desert, CA 92211 | drmayakato.com ApexRF is a breakthrough 15-minute, non-invasive treatment that uses gentle radiofrequency energy to restore blood flow and improve male performance. It’s effective for ED and equally beneficial for men who simply want to feel more confident and connected. Stimulates natural blood flow Treats ED safely and effectively Boosts performance, size, and sensation Restores intimacy and confidence No pills, injections, or surgery THE GENTLE TREATMENT FOR A STRONGER CONNECTION Dr. B. Maya Kato is proud to be the exclusive provider of InMode APEX™ RF in the Coachella Valley. Mention "Desert Health News" for special pricing - $600 off package of 6 treatments! LIMITED TIME SPECIAL OFFER Continued on page 22 No Health Insurance? You’re Not Alone VIM Can Help! Routine Medical Examinations • Chronic Disease Management Individual and Group Education • Labs, X-rays and Imaging Services Cancer Screenings • Vaccinations • No health insurance • Immigration status not requested • Limited income All services are provided free of charge for eligible individuals Call or visit our website for more information 760-342-4414 • cvvim.org ALL AT NO COST TO YOU! WE DO IT FOR FREE! Erectile dysfunction (ED) rarely has a single cause. Often multiple physical changes, emotional stressors and lifestyle habits are present, and combined, they interfere with the ability to achieve or maintain an erection. Identifying the specific causative factors is the key to pursuing effective treatment. Physical causes: when the body’s systems falter An erection requires coordinated function of the vascular, neurologic, hormonal and muscular systems. Problems in any of these can sabotage sexual performance. While the prevalence of ED does increase with age, studies show this is likely due to the greater prevalence of other comorbidities, which also increase with age:¬ Vascular issues. Reduced blood flow is the most common physical cause of ED. Atherosclerosis, hypertension and hyperlipidemia can narrow or stiffen blood vessels, preventing adequate blood from entering the penile tissue. ED may even be an early warning sign of cardiovascular disease. Diabetes. Poorly controlled blood sugar damages both nerves and blood vessels. This dual impact makes diabetes one of the strongest predictors of ED, often appearing years before other complications. Hormonal imbalances. Hormonal causes are less common, but important to identify. Low testosterone can decrease libido and impair erections. Thyroid disorders and elevated prolactin levels can also disrupt normal sexual function. Neurologic conditions. Erections depend on intact nerve signaling. Spinal cord injuries, neuropathy, multiple sclerosis, stroke and pelvic surgery—such as prostate removal—can impair nerve pathways and lead to ED. Medication side effects. Several commonly prescribed drugs, including antidepressants, antihypertensives, and prostate medications, can interfere with libido, nerve signaling and blood flow. Psychological causes: the mind–body disconnect Even when physical health is intact, the brain can block sexual response. Erections start in the mind, and internal stress can disrupt the cascade of signals that lead to arousal. Performance anxiety. Experiencing even a single instance of erectile difficulty can create anticipatory anxiety, leading to a cycle of self-doubt. Stress. Chronic emotional stress, such as financial strain and pressure at work activate the sympathetic nervous system—your “fight-or-flight” response—and this directly inhibits erection. Depression. Depression lowers desire and disrupts neurochemical pathways involved in arousal. Relationship conflict. Emotional distance, resentment, communication issues or unresolved conflicts can diminish intimacy and contribute to ED. Lifestyle factors: habits that undercut sexual health Daily habits influence vascular health, hormone balance and energy—a trio essential for performance. Smoking. Damages blood vessels and accelerates atherosclerosis, making erections weaker and less reliable. Excessive alcohol use. Alcohol depresses the nervous system, impairs hormone Reclaiming Intimacy (Part 2 of 3) The root causes of erectile dysfunction By B. Maya Kato, MD
We’re all familiar with workplace burnout—those moments when exhaustion, stress and disconnection signal it might be time to find a new job. But what happens when burnout creeps into your personal relationship? Does it mean the end of love, intimacy and partnership? The answer is a reassuring “No!” Unlike work burnout, relationship burnout doesn’t have to spell a permanent exit. The encouraging news is that couples have far more control over the variables that drive emotional fatigue at home. With awareness and intentional effort, burnout can become a turning point rather than a breaking point. The causes of relationship burnout are often layered. Overloaded schedules leave little room for rest or meaningful connection. Financial pressures heighten tension, while family dynamics, such as navigating in-laws or balancing traditions, add emotional strain. Constant stimulation during the holidays can crowd out calm, intimate moments. Even lifestyle factors, like too much sugar or alcohol, can disrupt sleep and increase irritability, reducing empathy and patience. Signs of relationship burnout Loss of “we-ness.” Feeling like you’re tackling life’s responsibilities alone rather than as a team. Emotional flooding. Becoming overwhelmed during interactions, unable to process or respond calmly. Negative sentiment override. As psychologist John Gottman, PhD, describes, defaulting to interpret your partner’s tone, actions or intentions negatively—even when they’re neutral or positive. Loneliness in togetherness. Feeling isolated even when being with the person you love. Evidence-based strategies for a relationship “reboot” The start of a new year offers couples a natural reset. Psychologists call this thefresh start effect, the motivational boost we feel at landmarks like January 1st. Research shows that setting intentional relationship goals after the holidays can lead to lasting improvements in communication, satisfaction and intimacy. Key strategies • Structured reflection. Discuss what is working and what is not. Focus on solutions, not blame. • Micro-moments of connection. Dr. Gottman’s research highlights how small gestures—a smile, a touch, a kind word—can strengthen bonds. Tell your partner you admire and appreciate them. Catch them doing something “right.” • Shared novelty. New activities together stimulate dopamine, rekindling excitement and attraction. to something your conscious mind may still be trying to ignore. Over time, that chronic stress can take a toll on your sleep, digestion and emotional resilience. It might be time to ask: Is this job costing me more than it’s giving me? You’re constantly tired even when you’re well-rested. If weekends, vacations and good sleep no longer recharge you, your exhaustion may not be physical. It could be burnout. A career that once energized you may no longer be aligned with your values or your current season of life. Ask yourself: What energizes me? When do I feel like I am in “the zone?” When do I feel most like myself? You’ve stopped caring and started numbing. Letting emails pile up. Ignoring your calendar. Reaching for your phone, snacks or distractions to get through the day. These behaviors aren’t laziness; they’re signals that your motivation has eroded. What once felt meaningful now feels mechanical. It may be time to reconnect with your “why.” You’re no longer growing. If your last big professional stretch was years ago and you’re not being invited to stretch again, it might be time to consider whether your current role is helping or hindering your growth. Stagnation isn’t neutral; it slowly chips away at your confidence, and having confidence is key to a successful job search. You’ve had ‘that feeling’ for a while now. You know the one. A quiet voice that wonders, is this all there is? That persistent feeling that something’s off, not broken, necessarily, but not right either. That feeling is not something to brush aside, but an invitation to be curious about what could be better, healthier, or more aligned. Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 5 www.DesertHealthNews.com January/February 2026 Career burnout may manifest as physical signs that it is time for change. With awareness, relationship burnout may be a turning point rather than a breaking point. www.palmdesertsmiles.com The latest technologies for a healthier, more youthful smile Sarah A. Khoshniyati, DDS "Dr. Sarah" Nicholas S. Baumann, DDS "Dr. Nick" Technology in dentistry is very exciting and evolves as new materials and equipment are introduced. 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G-3 Palm Desert DesertVascularAssociates.com Special Interests: Varicose Veins/Venous Insufficiency Carotid Artery Disease Aortic Aneurysms Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) Dialysis Access Chemotherapy Port Insertion Personalized quality care delivered with compassion and integrity Anna Gasparyan, MD, FACS Vascular Surgeon Before After Accepting new patients and most major insurance plans Sometimes, the decision to change careers feels crystal clear. A layoff happens. The company goes out of business. A move to a new city or state. A line gets drawn in the sand, and you know it’s time to move on. But more often, the signs are quieter…the subtle whispers rather than shouts. And they often show up first in your body long before they reach your resume or LinkedIn profile. If you’ve ever felt that gnawing Sunday night stomachache - the kind that signals the end of the weekend and the return to a job that drains rather than inspires you, you’re not alone. That physical tension is one of the clearest signals that something may be off, not just with your work, but with your overall wellbeing. And it may be time to take a deeper look. A career reboot (transition, pivot, etc.) isn’t about being impulsive; it’s about listening. To your gut. To your energy. To your restlessness. And then, with intention, beginning to explore what might be next. Here are some signs that your health and your heart might be calling for change: You feel the pit in your stomach every Sunday night. That low-grade dread creeping in before the workweek begins is not just psychological, it’s physiological. Your body is alerting you Is It Time for a Career Reboot? Your body might know before you By Christine Carter Continued on page 13 Continued on page 22 Relationship Burnout Reboot By Susan Murphy, PhD
As the BZP continues to take root in Coachella, we see more examples each month of how collaboration, education and culture come together to support community wellbeing. This season, our work has focused on school health, agricultural connections and promoting safer choices for families. At Cesar Chavez Elementary School, students are discovering the joy of growing their own food thanks to a strengthened school garden program. Desert Concepts, a local landscaping company, generously donated and installed a drip-irrigation system valued at approximately $2,500, an investment that will keep the garden thriving for years to come. In November, BZP Coachella joined teachers and families for a planting day where more than 60 students planted seeds purchased by BZP, and learned firsthand how healthy habits begin in the soil. This garden work will continue across more CVUSD schools, including Coral Mountain Academy, where additional support is underway. Achievements so far include expanded garden programs and successful school transformation visits at all four registered sites: Bobby Duke Middle School, Palm View Elementary, Coachella Valley High School and Coral Mountain Academy. Each school is taking concrete steps toward creating environments where the healthy choice becomes the easy choice. Our commitment to local food systems also led us to proudly sponsor this year’s AgVision event in Coachella, a gathering that celebrates the Coachella Valley’s agricultural heritage and innovations. Throughout the day, our interactive Blue Zones trivia activity drew attendees into conversations about healthier living, while local farmers, including Temalpakh Farms, highlighted their excitement and alignment with Blue Zones principles. A standout presentation on the history of the Medjool date underscored how the movement toward “food as medicine” continues to influence both agriculture and community health. Looking ahead, we invite the community to join us at the Fiestas Azules Kickoff celebration on January 24 at Veterans Park. As we continue expanding access to nutritious, locally grown foods, we also encourage the community to support partners like Hidden Harvest, whose work brings fresh produce directly to families across the Coachella Valley. Together, we can strengthen food security and create a healthier future for every household. For more information, ways to get involved and to sign the Blue Zones Personal Pledge, visit www.bluezonesprojectpalmsprings.com and www.bluezonesprojectcoachella.com. Follow on social @bzppalmsprings and @bzpcoachella. The new community garden at Ramon Mobile Park may still be in its early stages—no seedlings yet, no herbs perfuming the air—but its impact is already unmistakable. As part of Blue Zones Project (BZP) Palm Springs’ long-term partnership with residents, the garden joins Walking Moais, Purpose Workshops, social gatherings and other Power 9®–inspired activities that support healthier, longer living. After a fire in July damaged several homes and shook the neighborhood, the Ramone Park garden has also taken on a deeper meaning. It is becoming a symbol of rebuilding and regeneration, evidence that healing can start with something as simple as preparing the soil for new growth. A community idea that became momentum. The garden was not designed in a conference room; it was imagined and championed by residents. BZP Ambassador Scott Phipps, an avid gardener, and several neighbors understood that rising food prices and limited access to fresh produce were real challenges. As Scott explained, “One of the main reasons I wanted to start our community garden was to alleviate any possible food insecurity that anyone in the park may have.” The garden quickly grew from a hopeful idea into a shared project. Scott recalls, “In the midst of coordinating the social aspect of the Blue Zones philosophy, it became clear that our community was developing organically. The concept of ‘If you build it, they will come’ became clear.” And come they did—offering materials, donations, advice and plenty of enthusiasm. A garden circle formed long before the first planting day, showing just how ready residents were to build something together. Designing for desert life—and for resilience. Growing a garden in Palm Springs is not for the faint of heart. It takes strategy, shade, long-term planning and people who understand what it means to grow food in the desert. To set the project up for success, BZP Palm Springs partnered with Gina Oliver, PhD, and Richard Hutchinson, founders of From the Land, whose experience in community farming and regenerative agriculture is guiding the design. Dr. Oliver captures the purpose perfectly: “Community gardens strengthen both the health and the spirit of a neighborhood. They offer a shared space where people can grow fresh food, learn new skills and build relationships in a supportive and dignified environment.” She also reminds us of the realities of our climate: “In places like Palm Springs, where extreme heat can limit outdoor activity and make food production difficult, shaded garden areas create better conditions for summer growing for both people and plants.” More than a garden—a way to move forward. The garden is becoming a focal point of community life. Scott sees opportunity in every step: “It is my hope that our garden space will increase in size… and that more neighbors will join in for ecological education, socializing, natural movement and ikigai (see p.19) that the BZP Palm Springs inspires.” It has already sparked leadership, collaboration and hope. For Ramon Mobile Park, it represents a fresh start after a difficult moment. For BZP Palm Springs, it’s a foundation for deeper engagement across the city. www.DesertHealthNews.com January/February 2026 Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 6 CVUSB students are learning the joy and benefits of gardening. Ramon Mobile Park community members meet to plan their garden project. www.palmspringsendodontics.com www.ranchomirageendodontics.com www.palmspringsendodontics.com www.ranchomirageendodontics.com www.jordanptcenter.com www.palmspringsendodontics.com www.ranchomirageendodontics.com Laser Endodontic Treatment Laser energy enhances the effect of disinfectants used in the canals, further eliminating bacterial infection. Ozone Therapy for Endodontics An advanced preventative therapy that fights off bacteria and pathogens which typically cause most oral health problems. Cone Beam CT Scan Cutting-edge 3D imaging of teeth, nerve pathways, soft tissue and bone that allows for a more accurate diagnosis and treatment of dental infections. Surgical Microscope Endodontics require significant attention to detail and precision. This advanced dental microscope is instrumental in providing the best outcomes for our clients. RanchoMirageEndodontics.com PalmSpringsEndodontics.com Offering Biological Root Canal Therapy for Optimal Oral and Whole Body Health We use advanced technology and biological techniques to greatly reduce ambient bacteria and protect the overall health of our patients. Eddie Al Halasa, DDS, MSD Board Certified Endodontist Rita J. Hung, DMD, MPD, MSD Board Eligible Endodontist Advanced Technology Root canal therapy • Endodontic retreatment Apicoectomy • IV and oral sedation dentistry RANCHO MIRAGE (760) 779-0350 71780 San Jacinto Dr., Ste. B3 Rancho Mirage PALM SPRINGS (760) 318-0101 558 S. Paseo Doroteo, Ste. 9 Palm Springs PERSONALIZED CARE FOR THE ENTIRE COACHELLA VALLEY Community News Palm Springs: Small Garden, Big Impact By Mihai Patru, Executive Director, Blue Zones Project Palm Springs Coachella: Health, Connection, Community By Angela Zepeda, Executive Director, Blue Zones Project Coachella
www.movementforlife.com/desert www.DesertHealthNews.com January/February 2026 Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 7 Gwen Harville-Washington, LCSW Licensed Clinical Social Worker Specializing in Internal Family Systems Embracing Our Vulnerability Upcoming Offerings: WOMEN’S GROUP Coming together to create community and heal past wounds GROUP FOR CLINICAL THERAPISTS Support for professionals supporting others Groups are limited to 8 participants. To be placed on the interest list and for further information, please contact Gwen at (909) 210-5895 or gwen.alpa@gmail.com. Eisenhower Health is the local favorite for patients and physicians alike. Our not-for-profit status gives doctors the environment they need to do their best work. Here, they can focus on providing patients comprehensive, compassionate care because we don’t have to worry about pleasing shareholders — we answer only to the community we serve, and that means you. We reinvest every dollar we make into enhancing our services and infrastructure. And that translates into exceptional care for everyone in the community. At Eisenhower Health, our bottom line is providing great care. Learn more at EisenhowerHealth.org/Growth Our Patients Are Our Priority. “You Don’t Become a Doctor to Keep Shareholders Happy. You Do It to Keep People Healthy.” ~Eric Leroux, MD, MBA, VP and Chief Quality Officer EisenhowerHealth.org/Growth • Orthopedic rehab with board certified PTs to restore mobility and strength • Sports performance to boost your game including pickleball • Work injury recovery to get you back on track Power up your game Cathedral City 35325 Date Palm Dr. Ste 131 Cathedral City, CA 92234 (760) 202-0368 Indio 81557 Dr Carreon Blvd. Ste C4 Indio, CA 92201 (760) 347-6195 Have you noticed situations in which you are more likely to be reactive? Recently, I asked my spouse if he’d like to attend a community event with me. The first thing I noticed was his facial expression. He seemed annoyed. He then began to explain the reasons he did not want to attend. My initial reaction was frustration, followed by hurt feelings. I thought, “why is it always such a big deal,” and “why can’t he try things before automatically thinking of reasons not to participate.” Just as I was about to react to these feelings and thoughts, I paused. I noticed that part of me felt rejected and was about to tell my husband, “I just won’t ask you if you want to go anywhere anymore. I’ll just go with friends.” But with pause, I was able to recognize what was happening inside. This allowed me to respond differently, and I was able to say, “Think about it and we can discuss it a bit more tomorrow.” We all have parts of us that get activated from time to time. These parts can cause us to become very reactive, or to shut down or distract ourselves in some way. Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a therapeutic approach to addressing these parts of our personality. Created by family therapist Richard Schwartz, PhD, in the 1980s, IFS views the mind as composed of multiple "parts," like an inner family, rather than a single self, and aims to access the core "Self,” to help transform internal conflict into inner harmony. In developing the therapeutic process, Dr. Schartz identified four parts of the personality: Exiles are the parts that carry our wounds from childhood, adolescence and young adulthood. They may be buried in our subconscious but try to come into our conscious awareness. They are the very vulnerable parts of our personality and we may have multiple Exiles. In Listening When Parts Speak, author Tamala Floyd explains how parts become exiled: Exiles are usually young, vulnerable parts of us that hide from awareness for selfprotection or that protectors attempt to keep hidden for fear that they will destabilize the system with pain and vulnerability. When we are young and unburdened, these parts may express as joyous, curious, playful and energetic. However, they receive the message from family, cultural groups and society that their natural way of being is unacceptable. Children come to understand that who they are is not okay, and to receive love and care, they need to change who and how they are. This creates the need to exile or cut off parts of themselves from the whole. Children are vulnerable and dependent on adults, and if rejecting parts of themselves is the cost of their safety, love and care, the system adjusts to increase the likelihood the child will receive the care needed to survive. The system will keep adjusting to outside forces, exiling more parts if necessary. There are two other parts that act as protectors to keep exiles buried in our subconscious: Managers and Firefighters. Managers are the parts of our personality that work very proactively to keep our Exiles tucked away, for fear they will overwhelm us. We can have multiple Managers working to ensure we don’t do anything that makes us look bad or weak. Examples include our inner critic, the part that makes sure everything is in order, and that we are seen in a positive light. I like to think of Managers as those parts that keep all the plates spinning. Every Part of Me An introduction to Internal Family Systems By Gwen Harville-Washington, LCSW Continued on page 13
In setting our goals for the year ahead, “eat better” and “exercise more” are often at the top of the list. Such lifestyle changes are admirable and can help prevent and reverse chronic disease. However, broad goals like these can set us up for disappointment; since they are so expansive, it’s often difficult to assess progress. Lack of detailed goals can lead to failure, frustration and negative self-talk, and adversely impact future expectations and experiences. Although “relapse” is a well-documented step in the cycle of change,¬ it can be discouraging and sway us from getting back on our path of good intentions. One way to prevent failure is to make smaller, more feasible changes that are easier to achieve and maintain for longterm success.® When you sit down to a meal, you proceed by taking one bite at a time, chewing and swallowing each bite before proceeding to the next. Here, I’m suggesting that you detail your goal(s) into quantifiable measurements and then break those down further into smaller “bite size” pieces. This approach allows your body to “digest” (assimilate) each change before proceeding to the next step, thus supporting the likelihood of long-term success. Here are a couple of tangible examples of how to do this. One aspect of health is optimizing water consumption. However small this may seem, it is a foundation of health and affects overall wellbeing including energy, detoxification, mood, and joint and fascia health.¯ To achieve the general recommendation for healthy individuals of drinking half your body weight in ounces of water daily (140 lb person would drink 70oz/day), you can slowly increase your intake by 10oz a day for one week at a time until you eventually meet your goal. Maintain this for, say, 1-2 months before taking on your next goal. This also gives your body time to “digest” the change (adjusting to the increased water intake and decreasing bathroom trips). Movement is another foundation of health. A resolution to increase exercise requires choosing a goal you would feel comfortable with and realistically can sustain. Current CDC guidelines recommend 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week. This is often broken down into 30 minutes of movement five days a week.° If you are currently living a sedentary lifestyle or do not have a sustained movement routine, start with a smaller weekly goal that you continue for 3-4 weeks, then slowly work toward your end goal over time. This is also important for building stamina and preventing injury. Consider starting with one or two 5-minute walks (uninterrupted) daily. This seemingly small step equates to 35-70 minutes of movement a week! If there is more than one component to your larger goal, I suggest layering them over time. Using the above examples, you could start by working toward your hydration goal, then add your exercise plan. Making changes one bite at a time will help prevent failure and improve the likelihood of long-term success. Dr. Jainuddin is a naturopathic primary care doctor at One Life Naturopathic and can be reached at (442) 256.5963 or visit www.onelifenaturopathic.org. References: 1) Desert Health, January/February 2022, Making Changes: What’s Your Narrative? Jainuddin, NMD, BCB; 2) Rolls BJ, Morris EL, Roe LS. Portion size of food affects energy intake in normal-weight and overweight men and women. Am J Clin Nutr. 2002;76:1207– 1213. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/76.6.1207; 3) https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-weight-growth/water-healthy-drinks/index.html; 4) https://www.cdc. gov/physical-activity-basics/guidelines/adults.html www.DesertHealthNews.com January/February 2026 Continued on page 12 Natural Options The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 8 www.takotaalchemy.com Discover Reiki Sessions • Readings • Retreats Intuitive Life Coaching Call or Text (619) 726-0408 TakotaAlchemy.com Your Inner Power CINDY DOUGLAS Certified Reiki Master/ Life Coach www.onelifenaturopathic.org 10 minute Discovery Call for all new patients Naturopathic Primary Care Holistic Treatment Plans Individualized Guidance Preventive Medicine Biofeedback Training Craniosacral Therapy Dr. Shari Jainuddin, NMD, BCB Licensed Naturopathic Doctor | Board Certified in Biofeedback 442.256.5963 onelifenaturopathic.org Scan me! www.acqpoint.com Get relief from pain and stress now! Acupuncture • Electro Acupuncture Cupping • Chinese Herbs K-Laser • Cold Laser For appointments, book online at AcQpoint.comor call 760.345.2200 Diane Sheppard, PhD, LAc ACUPUNCTURE CHINESE HERBS Dr. Sheppard is a California state-licensed acupuncturist and Chinese herbologist. She earned her Masters of Science in Oriental Medicine degree from the oldest school of Chinese medicine in the United States – Samra University. She also holds a Ph.D. in Eastern Medicine. The New Year offers a time to reflect on what we've learned and imagine what's ahead. This time of year, we traditionally make our annual resolutions to counteract the “bad” we have done and make corrections so we can be good. But unfortunately, less than 10% of us continue those resolutions past the second Friday in January, which is commonly referred to as “Quitter’s Day.” Why is this? The truth is, we often give our dissatisfactions a power that does not serve us well. If we can only lose the weight, stop smoking, commit to dry January, or stand up for ourselves, this will be a better year. Most of us keep a mental scale of good and bad. Our perceptions arise from the tainted evaluations we have accepted throughout our lives, shaped by our experience, family, education, community–even our gender, height, weight and age. Our choices and self-approval are based on how we believe others see us, and how we feel judged by the values of influencers, our social network, parents and cultural heritage. What if we took a radically different approach to personal success this year? What if our wellbeing was based on strengthening our self-awareness? This simple shift can be achieved through mindfulness. We are not trying to change anything–no doing, no not doing. We are simply nourishing our heightened presence in the practice of moment-to-moment awareness. Mindfulness is a practice, and with practice, it can become the primary lens of perception. For example, we begin to notice how much we eat; how quickly or slowly we chew. Did I even taste that bite? Mindfulness can help us visualize the moment we were suddenly ravenous after eating an hour ago. Was it an upsetting phone call? A television ad featuring a slim body we felt we could never achieve? Suddenly, a wave of hopelessness sweeps over us which can only be filled by food or drink. Let’s look closer before running to the fridge. Lean in and observe. Does the feeling have a story? A color, shape or size? Is it really hopeless? Ask again. Mindfulness allows us to interact with ourselves rather than simply reacting. We explore our inner-verse and our outer-verse. We allow ourselves to feel all feelings and welcome them with curiosity, kindness and freedom. This is what American Buddhist nun Pema Chodron means with her book title, Start Where You Are. Instead of New Year's resolutions, let’s try “radical reset solutions.” Start by witnessing yourself and your perceived world, then try changing those perceptions by letting the world come in just as it is. Take notice of the observations that arise within yourself. Radical Reset Solutions Perception, mindfulness, simplicity By Patricia Van Santen, DAOM, LAc Mindfulness can change our perceptions and self-awareness. Bite Size Changes to Last By Shari Jainuddin, NMD, BCB
www.DesertHealthNews.com January/February 2026 Natural Options The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 9 www.hfhcv.org MYOFASCIAL RELEASE The Missing Link To Authentic Healing For the Treatment of: • Headaches/Migraines • TMJ • Neck and Back Pain • Fibromyalgia • Carpal Tunnel • Plantar Fasciitis • Neurological Conditions Benefits Include: • Decreased Pain • Decreased Inflammation • Increased Range of Motion • Increased Mobility • Increased Circulation • Improved Posture • Improved Mood & Cognition 760.895.5145 online scheduling at: https://gina-malloy.clientsecure.me Gina M. Malloy, PT, MS Licensed Physical Therapist Offering Specialized Treatment for Women’s Health Issues Including, but not limited to: Endometriosis • Bladder Incontinence Mastectomy Pain and Scars A recent theme I posted, “Master Your Energy,” has sparked a lot of conversation about what true energetic alignment really means. Many of us have been out of alignment for so long that it almost feels natural, but alignment is actually our original state. It's where our energy flows with ease, our decisions feel authentic, and where life feels purposeful. When we reconnect with it, everything can shift. What does energetic alignment look like? When you’re living in alignment, you feel a sense of inner harmony. Your mind is clear and your body feels energized. You notice moments of synchronicity; things fall into place, opportunities arise, and you feel silently guided. Even when you face challenges, there’s a steadiness inside of you that keeps you grounded. Alignment looks like balance between your thoughts, words and actions, and that creates confidence and flow. Signs you’re out of alignment. The opposite is even more noticeable. You may feel drained no matter how much you rest. Frustration or irritability show up more often than peace. You might try to numb these feelings with distractions, overworking, overindulging or repeating the same cycles, but never quite resolving them. Sometimes it’s a vague sense of being “off” or disconnected from your purpose. These are all signs that your energy has slipped out of coherence. How to create alignment. The good news is energetic alignment can always be restored. Here are a few practices that make it practical and doable: • Daily check-in: Pause, scan your body, and give your energy a simple 1–10 rating. Awareness is the first step toward recalibration. • Release energy leaks: Notice where you’re leaking or losing energy from stress, toxic habits or relationships, and consciously let them go. • Cultivate coherence: Breathwork, meditation and grounding bring your body, mind and spirit back into harmony. • Live authentically: Make choices that reflect your personal values and inner truth, rather than what others expect. • Energize your environment: Small shifts like decluttering, bringing in natural light or adding soothing sound and scent can support you in holding your alignment daily. Living in alignment isn’t about perfection. It’s more about awareness and gentle adjustments. Every time you choose to return to your center, you strengthen your ability to live from your authentic self. And when you do, life flows easier because your inner energy sets the tone for everything that follows. Delphine Channels is a life coach, host of the Delphine’s Circle YouTube series and founder of Harmoneum.com, an online community for coaching and daily practices. She can be reached at Delphine@Harmoneum.com. Are You Living in Alignment? By Delphine Channels Sacred Women’s Collective is proud to welcomeCOPPERMOON’S ALISON MULLINS as their new Coachella Valley Branch Partner. Featuring Women’s Circles and Restorative Retreats Visit SacredWomanCollective.com to learn more. alison@sacredwomancollective.com sacredwomancollective WELCOME! For thousands of years, women gathered in circles long before wellness studios or modern support groups existed. Across cultures, from Indigenous communities to Celtic moon lodges to Middle Eastern storytelling gatherings — women met in intentional, sacred spaces to share wisdom, tend to emotional needs and strengthen the fabric of their communities. These gatherings were not trends; they were the heartbeat of feminine connection. Today, women’s circles are making a powerful resurgence. As the pace of life accelerates and digital connection replaces face-to-face community, many women are realizing how deeply they miss a place to be held, supported and seen. The return of circle is not a novelty; it is a remembering. Historically, women’s circles served as intergenerational classrooms. Mothers, grandmothers and daughters exchanged knowledge about relationships, intuition, birth, loss, creativity and the cycles of life. They offered a structure where every voice had value. No hierarchy. No competition. No performance. Just women sitting eye-toeye, speaking truth and listening with intention. Why are these gatherings needed now more than ever? Because despite unprecedented connectivity, women are more isolated than previous generations. Many carry silent responsibilities — caregiving, careers, aging parents, emotional labor and the pressure to manage everything with grace. Circles disrupt this isolation by offering something rare: a space where women do not need to be “fine.” They can arrive exactly as they are. Inside a women’s circle, the nervous system naturally settles. Rituals like lighting a candle, beginning with breath or sitting in a sacred shape create an atmosphere of grounding and safety. Studies in somatic psychology show that co-regulation — being in a calm, attuned group — can lower stress, improve clarity and restore emotional balance. These effects are not accidental; they mirror what women have practiced together for centuries. Another reason circles are rising in popularity is the longing for authentic community. Many women have experienced hurt or competition with other women, leaving them guarded. Yet, in circle, which is standardly led by a female facilitator, they encounter a different narrative: women supporting women, not comparing; women holding space, not taking it. When this happens, something ancient repairs itself. The circle becomes a space of collective healing. Circles also revive the essential act of storytelling. When one woman speaks honestly, it gives permission for others to do the same. Insight often comes not from instruction, but from resonance, hearing your own unspoken truth reflected in someone else’s experience. This shared wisdom becomes a source of empowerment and direction. Above all, women’s circles remind us that healing does not happen in isolation. Community has always been medicine. In a world that asks women to push harder and move faster, circle invites them to pause, breathe and reconnect with their inner knowing. Whether a woman is navigating a transition, seeking clarity, craving support or simply curious, stepping into circle offers a powerful path back to herself — and to the collective strength women have shared for generations. Alison Mullins is the founder of Coppermoon and the Coachella Valley branch partner of Sacred Woman Collective. She can be reached at alison@coppermoonrising.com or www.coppermoonrising.com. The Return of Women’s Circles An ancient practice for a modern world By Alison Mullins Circles bring women together, honoring ancient practices and supporting current needs.
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