www.pdpool.com On par with our valley’s international stature in sports, the Firebirds won the Western Conference Championship in their first two years. Acrisure hosted the AHL’s crown jewel, the Calder Cup finals, as well as the league’s All Star Classic (broadcast on the NHL Network) earlier this year. Ice skating for mental and physical fitness Simply standing on the ice in skates is a good workout. It takes balance, coordination, flexibility and strength — both challenging and rewarding. The sense of accomplishment that comes from achieving new skills boosts self-esteem while the focus required can take your mind off everything else and help reduce stress and anxiety. “Skating has been a gift for me,” says Hamill. “I was a shy kid and not that great in school and when I was on the ice, I was free. I loved the time alone and the challenge of learning.” She recommends starting with baby steps and not to worry about your ankles or falling; skating schools and rinks have equipment to get your through those initial phases. “No matter where you start, you will be supported,” she adds, as the skating community is very close-knit and inclusive. “We all started at the same place, and you never know where it will take you.” “The Iceplex is committed to providing a fun, safe and healthy environment for all,” says Vice President and General Manager Leslie Deason. “Hockey and skating are lifetime sports and all ages and abilities are welcome and encouraged to participate.” Open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week, the rink offers daily public sessions, skate and hockey lessons for youth and adults, as well as U.S. Figure Skating levels for kids who want to compete, camps, clinics and more. Special events take place regularly including DJ skate nights, high school free skates, birthday parties and corporate events. The Iceplex is the official training center of the Coachella Valley Firebirds, and the home rink for both the Junior Firebirds travel hockey team and the Desert Figure Skating Club, whose goal is to support skaters of all levels while developing our future champions for national and international competition. In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in our individual lives and forget the importance of community. But what if, by coming together, we could create a healthier, happier and more vibrant community for all? That's exactly what's happening in our desert region, as Blue Zones Project has launched in both Palm Springs and Coachella. When a community comes together through a Blue Zones initiative, the impact is felt far beyond its borders — the ripple effects of the movement do not end at city limits. By applying the principles of Blue Zones, we can create a community that supports and uplifts each other, fostering a culture of well-being that impacts the entire desert region. The Power of Community Blue Zones research has shown that people in the blue zones regions — who live the longest, healthiest lives in the world — enjoy strong social connections. People in these regions prioritize relationships and community, avoiding the negative impacts of loneliness. Blue Zones Project applies this insight by bringing individuals, organizations and community leaders together to create an environment and culture that encourages meaningful relationships and a deeper sense of community. By designing environments, policies and systems that support social connections, we can create a community that truly thrives. Examples include: Public spaces. Vibrant public spaces that invite people to gather, socialize, move naturally and connect with one another. Walkable and bikeable neighborhoods. Walkable neighborhoods encourage people to get outside, move around and connect with their community. Community gardens. Spaces that provide opportunities for people to grow their own food, share knowledge, and build relationships. Community events. Fun things to do that bring people together around healthy activities, such as farmers' markets, walking, volunteering and socializing. Moai groups. A concept that originated in the blue zones region of Okinawa, Japan, Moais are organized groups launched and run by the Blue Zones Project teams that meet regularly around healthy habits (walking, healthy potlucks, etc.) Join the Movement Whether you're a long-time resident or new to the area, what do you love about our community? What would you like to see change? How can we work together to build a healthier, happier community for all? To get involved, learn more and stay in touch via the Blue Zones Project newsletter, visit www.bluezonesprojectcoachella.com and www.bluezonesprojectpalmsprings.com. www.DesertHealthNews.com March/April 2025 Continued on page 22 Community gardens bring neighbors together as part of the Blue Zones Project initiative. Skating offers a variety of fitness activities for all ages. (Photo by Tara Howard) A leisurely skate with the family is a fun and healthy workout for all. (Photos courtesy of the Berger Foundation Iceplex) Ice in the Desert Continued from page 9 www.gatherlaquinta.com 760.219.7953 78010 Main Street Suite 201 gatherlaquinta.com yoga barre breathwork meditation sound baths pilates/yoga fusion Scan to view schedule ww w w. y.oygoagsaisxi.xc.ocmo m/ p/aplaml md edseesretr t www.yogasix.com/laquinta YOGASIX LA QUINTA 760.362.6366 Offer available for local first timers only. 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