www.desertcarenetwork.com/strokequiz what’sinside Natural Options Tips to Avoid Micro and Nanoplastics 9 Integrative Medicine Joseph Scherger, MD Reviews Dr. Longo’sFasting Cancer 11 Health & Beauty Vitamin C in Skincare 14 Through the Generations The Rise of Hospital-at-Home 15 Fresh Cuisine Come Home to Tía Carmen 19 Fitness Yoga Lessons from Our Arid Desert Landscape 22 Desert Events Food as Medicine Conference Returns to Palm Desert 20 Financial Health Taris 101 17 Medical News MMR Boosters: Facts and Recommendations 3 http://www.deserthealthnews.com/ May/June 2025 Continued on page 6 Celebrating Years! Aretreat is an intentional pause from the busyness and noise of everyday life—a sacred stepping away to reconnect with yourself on a deeper level. It’s a space where you can rest, reflect, and realign with what matters most. Whether nestled in nature or created at home, a retreat offers the opportunity to quiet the mind, nurture the body and listen to the whispers of the soul. Unlike a vacation, which often fills time with external activity, a retreat is about coming home to yourself. It invites stillness, presence and practices that support healing, clarity and growth—such as meditation, breathwork, journaling, movement or simply being. Taking yourself on retreat is an act of selfleadership and self-love. It’s a way of honoring your inner landscape, tending to what’s been neglected, and returning to life with renewed energy, purpose and connection. In a world that constantly demands more—more productivity, more connection, more noise—retreating can feel radical. But there is profound power in the pause. Taking yourself on retreat is not an escape, it’s a return; a return to clarity, to simplicity, to the rhythm of your own breath and heartbeat. It is where your soul can finally exhale. What is a retreat, really? A retreat is not a vacation. It’s not about checking out—it’s about tuning in. It’s a conscious decision to step away from the noise and immerse yourself in stillness, self-care and soulful nourishment. It’s time set aside to listen, to realign and to remember who you are beneath the layers of busyness. The power of a conscious environment The environment of a retreat is everything. Whether you are in a mountain cabin, seaside cottage, forest yurt or a quiet corner of your home, it becomes a sacred container free from distractions, toxic inputs and external pressures. You may leave behind alcohol, caffeine, sugar and processed foods—not as a punishment, but as a loving boundary—creating space for clean, vibrant nourishment that supports your body’s healing and clarity. Imagine starting your day with warm lemon water, slow intentional movement, and the sound of birds instead of notifications. A retreat space is an atmosphere that whispers “you’re safe here” and allows your nervous system to soften. Organic movement: reclaiming your body’s wisdom On retreat, movement becomes less about performance and more about presence. Whether it’s a gentle yoga flow, a barefoot walk through the woods or spontaneous stretching beneath the stars, you begin to move in rhythm with your own energy. You’re not trying to fix your body, you’re listening to it. This kind of movement is deeply healing, unlocking stored tension and opening new channels for energy and insight. (See page 12 for more) SKIP THE SCALPEL and for THE FUTURE IS HERE! Let’s Retreat Stroke Care Take a quiz to learn about your risk. DesertCareNetwork.com/StrokeQuiz when every second counts. Let Retreat Checking out to check in By Alison Mullins I’ll admit, I’ve been feeling a bit saucy lately; slow on patience and quick to snap. It is usually followed by a pause (and often the recipient’s own snappy response) as I ponder the source of my uncharacteristic reactions. But I don’t think I’m alone. Have you noticed that people appear a bit edgy these days? Many friends have experienced the same, and those in the public sector are finding it especially challenging. Lately, people just seem out of sorts. Those in astrology will tell you we are experiencing many rarely seen planetary shifts that are contributing to our unsettled world right now. So much change is taking place around us that many are simply trying to hold on for the ride. But no one wants to be the bad apple, so what can we do to turn saucy to sweet? Awareness is a good place to start. Speaking openly with friends certainly helps. And too often we forget that, just as tasty fruit blossoms from well-nourished soil, our soul will blossom when given the nourishment it needs. I realize I’ve become disconnected from activities that nourish my soul. It is one of the primary ingredients missing in my “sauce,” and I’m working to change the recipe. Spending more time in nature, taking my shoes off to walk barefoot on the grass, waking to the sun on my face, saying “yes” to the cold plunge, scheduling creative time outside of work, having coffee with old friends, putting everything aside to fully live and breathe in the moment… Sweet fruit starts with rich soil. Let’s remember to nourish our souls—and to be good to each other. good place place to start. Speaking with friends certainly Saucy to By Lauren Del Sarto
www.promedxp.com www.DesertHealthNews.com May/June 2025 Desert Health® The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 2 Lauren Del Sarto Founder/Publisher 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 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! Don’t you think we need to celebrate our planet more often? I’ve been longing to reconnect with Mother Earth lately; to get back to my roots in an effort to feel more grounded. When I was young, my mother took us on a cross-country camping trip in a red Volkswagen bus lovingly named “Chugaboom.” It remains one of my favorite childhood memories and I am forever grateful to her for the experience. To celebrate a milestone birthday in March this year, I wanted to camp with friends and family. Schedules didn’t allow for a campground excursion, so I set up tents in the backyard enticing apprehensive guests with a pool or garden view, and saving the “beach” view (below) for my headshaking husband. We cooked meals on the barbecue and sat around the firepit sharing stories and s’mores. It was the BEST birthday ever and an important reminder to embrace activities that nurture our soul (p.1). We can’t wait to do it again. This edition is full of pointers and practices to help fuel mind, body and soul: from the energy around us (p.8) to our own awakenings (p.11); from magical meals out (p.19) to recipes for home (p.18); from avoiding plastics (p.9) to fasting for cancer (p.11); from yoga inspired by our beautiful desert to the power of Pilates (p.22); and from doctors prescribing food as medicine (p.20) to neighbors helping neighbors (p.16). Let’s nurture Mother Earth, ourselves and those around us today, and every day. With love and kindness, everyday
Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 3 www.desertcarenetwork.com/strokequiz Nursing students at Cal State San Bernardino’s Palm Desert Campus (CSUSB) are stepping into leadership roles through a new Nursing Peer Mentoring Program designed to inspire and support local high school students interested in pursuing health care careers. The mentorship and career guidance program is part of OneFuture Coachella Valley’s Regional Healthcare Initiative to increase access to health care locally. The program is funded by the Inland Empire Regional K-16 Education Collaborative. Program highlights include: Strengths-based mentorship. Each participating high school student completes the CliftonStrengths assessment to identify their unique talents which serve as a foundation for career planning and leadership development. Engaging mentoring sessions. Students take part in three structured mentoring sessions, one in-person and two via Zoom, within small cohorts of 5-10 students. Each cohort is led by a trained CSUSB nursing peer ambassador. Expert guidance. Mentoring sessions are supervised by OneFuture Coachella Valley staff and CSUSB nursing faculty with health academy teachers welcome to join. Mentor training. CSUSB nursing peer ambassadors undergo mentor training; their own strengths are assessed and they receive guidance on how to support mentees. Resource accessibility. Participants have access to shared program materials and assessments via a digital platform. Career readiness. By the end of the program, high school students will gain valuable insights into patient care, college readiness and career pathways in health care. The program is already making an impact, with two mentoring sessions completed at Desert Mirage High School in Thermal and Cathedral City High School. “This is a fantastic opportunity for both current nursing students and high school students interested in a career in nursing,” said Justin Schneider, assistant professor, CSUSB Department of Nursing. “Nursing is a demanding profession, and admission to nursing programs is highly competitive. Through this mentorship, nursing students are developing leadership skills, while high school students gain insight into what it takes to succeed in a nursing program.” Schneider adds that it was inspiring to see their nursing students effectively leading discussions with high school students, engaging them and asking thoughtful questions. “I can’t wait for the day when one of our mentees steps into my classroom as a nursing student.” In November, the CSUSB Palm Desert Campus Department of Nursing and OneFuture Coachella Valley hosted a dinner and college night to further support aspiring health care professionals. The evening offered high school students and their families the opportunity to explore the CSUSB nursing program, tour state-of-the-art labs and engage with faculty and enrolled students. Micheal Singer is a communication specialist with CSUSB Palm Desert campus. For more information about CSUSB’s nursing programs, visit www.csusb.edu/nursing. www.DesertHealthNews.com May/June 2025 Nursing peer ambassadors meet with students at Cathedral City High School. College Nurses Inspiring Health Care Careers Through Mentorship By Michael Singer If you have been keeping up with the news, then you have heard that there have been over 700 cases of measles across several states. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the virus has been spreading mostly in people who are unvaccinated. How serious is contracting the measles? Two children have died in Texas and one adult in New Mexico. How contagious is measles? Very. As an airborne virus, it can spread when those infected breathe, sneeze or cough. Is the measles virus here in California? Yes. The Los Angeles Public Health Department has reported five cases which appear to have come in through the Los Angeles airport.1 What are the symptoms? Measles starts in the upper respiratory tract with runny nose, cough, watery eyes and high grade fever. It is followed by a rash that appears three to five days later. The rash starts on the face then spreads to neck, trunk, arms, legs and then the feet. Fevers can reach as high as 104 degrees. While most can recover from measles, it can lead to pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling and even death. There is no specific treatment for the disease, other than treating the symptoms and being prepared for possible complications.2 The best way to avoid the measles is with the MMR vaccine (measles-mumpsrubella). The CDC recommends all children get two doses of MMR vaccines starting with the first dose at 12 through 15 months of age, and the second dose at four through six years of age.3 Here are some interesting facts: • If you were born prior to 1957, you do not need a booster. •If vaccinated between 1957-1962, check with your doctor and have a titer drawn (a blood test that measures the concentration of antibodies in a sample). •If born between 1963-1967, you need a booster as the measles vaccine at this time was considered ineffective. • If born between 1968-1989, check with your doctor as you may or may not need the booster. • If you were vaccinated after 1989, you do not need the booster. • If you received two doses, your vaccines are considered effective.® With the ongoing influx and outflux of visitors to the Coachella Valley from other states and countries, protecting yourself from illness and disease is imperative. Make sure to ask your doctor if you should get an MMR booster. Please make sure to have your child’s vaccines up to date, as they are our most vulnerable population. Jeanne Perafan is a board certified family nurse practitioner with Ruiz Family Physicians in La Quinta. She can be reached at (760) 564.9205. References: 1) https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/health-wellness/measles-california/3651807/; 2) https://www.cdc.gov/measles/ data-research/index.html; 3) https://www.cdc.gov/measles/vaccines/; 4) https://www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2025/02/21/nxs1-5304458/measles-vaccine-booster-health MMR Booster: Facts and Recommendations By Jeanne Perafan, RN, MSN, FNP-bc When every second counts, the team at Desert Care Network is ready to provide stroke care close to home. Combining speed and expertise, we o er fast diagnosis and treatment of stroke to help minimize disability and help you get back on your feet. Our Comprehensive Stroke Services Include: • Accredited Comprehensive Stroke Center at Desert Regional Medical Center • Accredited Primary Stroke Center at JFK Memorial Hospital • Neurological critical-care unit • Minimally invasive technology • In-patient and outpatient rehabilitation Providing an advanced network of when every second counts. Stroke Care Take a quiz about stroke and your possible risks. Scan this QR code with your phone’s camera or visit DesertCareNetwork.com/StrokeQuiz When every second counts, the team at Desert Care Network is ready to provide stroke care close to home. Combining speed and expertise, we o er fast diagnosis and treatment of stroke to help minimize disability and help you get back on your feet. Our Comprehensive Stroke Services Include: • Accredited Comprehensive Stroke Center at Desert Regional Medical Center • Accredited Primary Stroke Center at JFK Memorial Hospital • Neurological critical-care unit • Minimally invasive technology • In-patient and outpatient rehabilitation Providing an advanced network of when every second counts. Stroke Care Take a quiz about stroke and your possible risks. Scan this QR code with your phone’s camera or visit DesertCareNetwork.com/StrokeQuiz When every second counts, the team at Desert Care Network is ready to provide stroke care close to home. Combining speed and expertise, we o er fast diagnosis and treatment of stroke to help minimize disability and help you get back on your feet. Our Comprehensive Stroke Services Include: • Accredited Comprehensive Stroke Center at Desert Regional Medical Center • Accredited Primary Stroke Center at JFK Memorial Hospital • Neurological critical-care unit • Minimally invasive technology • In-patient and outpatient rehabilitation Providing an advanced network of when every second counts. Stroke Care Take a quiz about stroke and your possible risks. Scan this QR code with your phone’s camera or visit DesertCareNetwork.com/StrokeQuiz
As a junior at Palm Desert High School, it feels like the future is approaching faster than ever, and the only thing we can truly control is how we prepare for it. One of the most impactful ways I’ve been preparing is through the Health Academy, an outstanding program that has left a lasting impression on me. This isn’t just a class about medical terminology or human anatomy–it's a transformative experience that builds our confidence, professionalism and readiness for life beyond high school. One of the most valuable and unique aspects of the Health Academy is the professional interview preparation. While most high school students never receive this type of training, we’re given the rare opportunity to practice the art of interviewing. Our teacher, Mr. Ron Paiz, recognized that many students across the country enter interviews unprepared, so he decided to change that by helping over 200 students learn how to present themselves with professionalism and confidence. The interview prep process is taken seriously. We participate in full-scale mock interviews designed to mirror real-life scenarios whether it’s a job, internship or college interview. We’re expected to dress professionally, carry ourselves with poise and communicate clearly. It’s challenging, but the growth we experience is undeniable. Mr. Paiz invites individuals from the community to conduct our interviews–people who work in health care, the military, and even former Health Academy students. Their feedback is not only detailed and insightful, but also incredibly encouraging. They help us understand our strengths, recognize areas for improvement, and reflect on how we present ourselves to the world. The transformation we go through is truly powerful. Students who were once shy or unsure walk out of their interviews with confidence and clarity. We learn to speak about our goals with purpose, tackle tough questions and carry ourselves like professionals. These interviews push us out of our comfort zones and show us what we’re capable of achieving. The Health Academy doesn’t just prepare students for college–it prepares us for life. It teaches us how to show up, speak up and succeed. Joining this program has been one of the best decisions I’ve made in high school and the skills I’ve gained–especially through our interview preparation–will stay with me for years to come. Violet David is a junior and the PDHS Health Academy Class President. For more information on OneFuture Coachella Valley and local health academies, visit www.onefuturecv.org www.DesertHealthNews.com May/June 2025 Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 4 www.theveininstituteofthedesert.com Specializing in varicose and spider vein removal and wound and ulcer treatment 760.610.5573 74-361 Hwy 111, Ste. 5 • Palm Desert TheVeinInstituteOfTheDesert.com BEFORE AFTER SANFORD GREENBERG, MD RICHARD GUERRERO, MD NEW YEAR SPECIAL Free Ultrasound Vein Screening $150 value; valid through 4/30/25 Medicare & most PPO insurance accepted Financing options available Students display certificates to accompany the valuable lessons learned in mock interviews. 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. We select only the most proven, effective, patient and comfort-focused technologies. • CEREC Same-Day Crowns • Implants • iCAT 3D X-Ray/Digital X-Rays • Modern Periodontal Care • Hard/Soft Tissue Laser • Mercury-free Practice • Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation • TMD/TMJ Support • Conscious Sedation • Fountain of Youth Dentures • KöR® Teeth Whitening Services and products we o er: 760.568.3602 44239 Monterey Avenue • Palm Desert PalmDesertSmiles.com Follow us! Real World Preparation By Student Violet David Learning is the cornerstone of human progress, enabling us to adapt, innovate and thrive. It is about acquiring knowledge and engaging deeply with experiences, facts and concepts to draw meaningful conclusions. The true essence of learning is revealed in reflection—when we take a step back, process what we’ve encountered, and connect it to our lives and understanding of the world. Reflection is said to be the point at which learning occurs, transforming passive learning into active understanding. We can identify patterns, grasp underlying principles and solidify our knowledge by asking probing questions. Here are some reflective questions that stimulate learning: • What did I learn from this experience? • How does this knowledge apply to my current situation or goals? • What assumptions or biases did I challenge or confirm? • How can I use this information to solve problems or make decisions? • What emotions or perspectives emerged during this learning process? Reflection amplifies the impact of learning by transforming raw experiences or information into meaningful insights. Here’s a closer look at how and why reflection is so powerful: Deepens understanding. Reflection allows us to examine not just what we learned, butwhy it matters. It helps us connect new knowledge to existing beliefs or experiences, uncover patterns, and gain a deeper understanding of the subject. For example, after completing a project, reflecting on what went well and what could be improved helps solidify both successes and lessons. Reflection Turns Knowledge into Wisdom By Tracy Smith Encourages self-awareness. Taking time to reflect fosters self-awareness by revealing how we approach challenges, process information and respond to outcomes. This awareness can highlight personal strengths on which to build, and areas for growth. For instance, reflecting on a difficult conversation might reveal biases or assumptions we didn’t notice in the moment. Enhances problem-solving. By reflecting on past successes and failures, we can identify strategies that work and recognize pitfalls to avoid. This makes us more effective problem-solvers. Strengthens memory retention. Reflection reinforces neural pathways in the brain, making it easier to retrieve information later. When we actively think about what we’ve learned, such as by summarizing or explaining it to someone else—we help the brain consolidate that knowledge. Promotes lifelong learning. Reflection cultivates a mindset of continuous learning. It trains us to ask thoughtful questions, seek feedback and embrace challenges as opportunities to grow. This reflective habit carries over into all aspects of life, encouraging curiosity and adaptability. Builds emotional intelligence. Reflecting on experiences helps us process emotions and gain perspective. For example, looking back on a stressful event can teach us how we manage pressure and prepare us to cope more effectively in the future. Learning is a lifelong journey, fueled by curiosity and sustained by reflection. When we take time to analyze our experiences and ask the right questions, we transform mere facts into wisdom. Tracy Smith is an energy medicine practitioner with Blissful Release Now. Her books, Moments of Divine Inspiration and Women Who Trust are available on Amazon. For more information, visit www.blissfulreleasenow.com or tracy.blissfulrelease@gmail.com.
Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 5 www.DesertHealthNews.com May/June 2025 www..movementforlliife..com//desert we’re here to keep you on the court (because sitting out isn’t an option) Cathedral City 35325 Date Palm Dr. Ste 131 Cathedral City, CA 92234 (760) 202-0368 Indio 81557 Dr Carreon Blvd. Suite C4 Indio, CA 92201 (760) 347-6195 We believe in movement—at every age, for every stage of life. Our approach to physical therapy is designed to keep you active, painfree, and living your best life. We offer: 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 www.capcomts.com • •••••• ••• •• Volunteers in Medicine provides FREE primary care for uninsured adults who have limited income and don’t have insurance. Each year, many of your fellow MDs, DOs, PAs, NPs and nurses give their time and talent to VIM. Make a difference today! Become a volunteer and help our community get healthy! For more information on how you can help call (760) 342-4414 Community News New Gallup data, conducted in collaboration with the Blue Zones Project, offers a snapshot of well-being in Palm Springs and Coachella. This research, done between October and December 2024, examines five key dimensions of well-being: career, community, social, physical and financial health, providing localized intelligence. The data highlights positive mental health scores in Coachella, with clinical depression rates better than the national average. This suggests a resilient community, and Coachella residents report strong levels of career and social well-being. While the data also points to areas needing attention, such as financial well-being and rates of obesity and overweight residents, the strong foundation in mental and social health provides a valuable asset for future well-being improvement. Palm Springs emerges as a leader in physical well-being as a community that actively prioritizes health and fitness. This is a significant positive aspect of the city's overall well-being profile. The data also indicates that social well-being scores are the lowest among the four cities polled (including Riverside and Banning), which means there are opportunities to foster greater social connectedness. Additionally, the broader regional data reveals a positive trend with area employers exceeding national levels in providing healthy food options for their employees, a factor that Blue Zones Project can leverage to further promote healthy choices in both Palm Springs and Coachella. This localized annual data, part of a larger report that includes Riverside and Banning, offers valuable insights for Blue Zones Project. By tracking well-being metrics year over year, Blue Zones Project can identify trends, measure the impact of their interventions and tailor future strategies to the specific needs of each city. For a deeper dive into the specific Gallup well-being findings for Coachella and Palm Springs, visit www.bluezones.com/riverside-gallup-webinar. Blue Zones Project Palm Springs Community Kickoff Event Thursday, May 15 • 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. The Festival Theaters Palm Springs Hear about the community-crafted blueprint that will drive the Project over the next three years, enjoy a reception with wine and light bites, and meet the local Palm Springs team and national leaders from the Blue Zones Project. It's a chance to be part of the movement shaping a brighter future for the city's well-being. RSVP at Eventbrite: search Blue Zones Project Palm Springs Community Kickoff To learn more about Blue Zones Project and sign up for the newsletter, visit us at www.bluezonesprojectcoachella.com and www.bluezonesprojectpalmsprings.com. Desert Well-being: New Gallup Data Reveals How People are Doing in Palm Springs and Coachella
www.palmspringsendodontics.com www.ranchomirageendodontics.com Clean eating as sacred practice Food on retreat becomes medicine and meditation. You slow down, chew mindfully and savor the nourishment that comes from whole, vibrant, plant-rich meals. You might eat locally grown produce, drink herbal teas and cook with intention—or be lovingly served by others who honor food as a sacred act. By removing processed foods, stimulants and alcohol, your body and mind begin to clear. Cravings dissolve. Intuition heightens. Your taste returns, not just for food, but for life itself. Stillness, silence and soul connection The silence you find on retreat is not empty—it’s full of insight, emotion, memory and soul. In this quiet, the distractions fall away and your inner voice becomes audible. Journaling, meditating, walking in nature or simply watching the sunrise all become spiritual practices. You may meet parts of yourself you forgot existed. Why take yourself on retreat? You don’t have to wait for an invitation or a curated group experience. You can take yourself on retreat anytime and anywhere you wish. You can choose a day, a weekend, or a full week to turn inward. You create your own rhythm, your own rituals. It’s an act of radical responsibility and deep self-love to say, “I am worthy of my own time, my own attention, my own healing.” Finding a retreat for you You don’t have to spend a lot of money to reap the rewards of a sacred pause. A home retreat can work just as well as an external getaway and can teach you a lot about yourself. If you’d prefer to attend a retreat organized by others, reach out to local wellness practitioners for their recommendations, or simply search “local wellness retreats” in your desired destination and find one that resonates with you based on offerings and reviews. Childhood obesity is a serious public health issue that affects millions of children across the country. Children with obesity are at higher risk for other chronic health conditions and diseases, such as asthma, bone and joint problems, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. In this article, HARC provides Coachella Valley statistics and resources to promote healthy growth in our local children. The way to determine a child’s body weight category is determined by using the body mass index (BMI). BMI is a measurement used to determine weight category, including underweight, healthy weight, overweight and obesity. BMI is calculated by dividing a person’s weight in kilograms by the person’s square height in meters. For children and teenagers, there is an age-specific and sex-specific BMI. Childhood obesity can then be defined as a BMI at or above the 95th percentile, meaning that the child’s BMI is greater than the BMI of 95% of children in the same age and sex. Coachella Valley data HARC’s 2022 community survey indicates that 46.1% of local children aged 2 and older have a BMI that puts them in the “overweight” or “obese” category; this is roughly 25,790 children in our valley. However, when parents were asked about their perception of their child’s weight, only 14.4% of parents believed their child was overweight. With so many parents unaware that their child is overweight, these parents are less likely to make changes to the child’s lifestyle to support healthier development. How to support your child from home Addressing obesity starts at home and there are several ways that parents and caregivers can support a child’s healthy growth. First, it is important to be aware of your child’s BMI to assess potential weight issues. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a Child and Teen BMI calculator available for parents to use (search BMI calculator at cdc.gov or see link below), and any concerns should certainly be discussed with the child’s pediatrician or doctor. Regardless of the child’s BMI, it is essential for children to have a healthy diet. Lowcalorie foods with fruits and vegetables instead of foods with high amounts of added sugars and fats are a good start. Getting into the habit of reading labels when shopping can help cut down on foods with high sugar and carbohydrate contents. Another way to promote healthy growth is ensuring the child is drinking plenty of water while limiting high-sugar drinks. It is also important for the child to incorporate physical activity into their daily routine. The CDC recommends that children get 60 minutes of physical activity each day. Parents may find a list of age-appropriate activities for a child by visiting the CDC’s Physical Activity Guidelines. Lastly, it is beneficial for children to develop healthy sleeping habits to encourage healthy growth and improve the child’s attention and brain functioning. Multiple studies have found that lack of sleep is associated with higher risks of weight gain and obesity. Certainly, we want our local children to experience a childhood that is healthy and happy. Moreover, behaviors in childhood lead to long-term habits that often carry them through much of their lives. It is critical to develop healthy habits so that a healthy weight can be maintained into adulthood, leading to a long and vibrant life. HARC is a local nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health, wellness and quality of life in the Coachella Valley through data-driven research and evaluation. Learn more at www.HARCdata.org. Sources: 1) https://harcdata.org/coachella-valley-community-health-survey/executive-report/; 2) https://www.cdc.gov/bmi/child-teencalculator/index.html; 3) https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics/guidelines/ www.DesertHealthNews.com May/June 2025 Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 6 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 Clean cuisine is at the heart of rejuvenating retreats. Healthy habits learned in childhood can last a lifetime. Nearly Half of Local Children Are Overweight or Obese Tips for healthy growth at home Provided by HARC Obese at home Let’s Retreat Continued from page 1 Continued on page 13
www.eisenhowerhealth.org/growth www.DesertHealthNews.com May/June 2025 Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 7 www.desertvascularassociates.com Personalized quality care delivered with compassion and integrity 760.902.1511 74000 Country Club Dr. • Suite 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 Accepting new patients and most major insurance plans Before After Anna Gasparyan, MD, FACS Vascular Surgeon Desert Vascular Associates Eisenhower Health is proud to be a community health system in every sense of the word. Not only do we serve our community, but we are actually owned by the community. That means we answer to you. So we carefully assess local health care needs, look ahead at trends and statistics, and plan services accordingly. We consider it our responsibility and our honor to care for the residents of the Coachella Valley. Over the last 20 years, Eisenhower Health has reinvested $1.2 billion to expand and enhance our continuum of care. Examples include: • Establishing a network of Health Centers across the valley for primary and specialty care • Investing in state-of-the-art technology in robotic surgery, imaging, and more • Developing a Graduate Medical Education program to train expert physicians for the future • Continually expanding services in key areas like cardiovascular, cancer, orthopedics, and behavioral health When it comes to caring for the Coachella Valley, we’re all in. And we’re all yours. Our Patients Are Our Priority. “As a Not-for-profit Hospital, Our Only Care Is Caring for You.” ~Marty Massiello, CEO/President EisenhowerHealth.org/Growth June is National Cancer Survivor Month and the first Tuesday (June 3) marks an opportunity for those in the beauty and wellness industries to show their support. Celebrated as Cancer Survivor Beauty and Support Day, the movement encourages businesses to offer complimentary services of their choice to all men, women and children who are cancer survivors—regardless of their type of cancer or when they were diagnosed. With businesses in all fifty states, along with beauty salons in Canada, Mexico and Italy, the initiative was started in 2003 by Barbara Paget of Rancho Mirage. At 80 years young, Paget continues to work on her goal of making this a nationally designated day. The idea for the volunteer movement arose from a morning show segment Paget saw over two decades ago. In response to the large number of clientele being diagnosed with cancer, a local spa decided to offer a day of complimentary beauty services to those affected. The act of kindness hit a nerve and she thought out loud, “I can do that!” Paget approached the owner of a spa she frequented who immediately agreed to the gesture of support. With only a small flyer in the spa and one at a nearby breast center, the day was filled with a waiting list. After three years, Paget decided to expand the movement, but never dreamed it would go beyond her home state of Illinois. Today, Cancer Survivor Beauty and Support Day is supported by Great Clips®, Pivot Point International, Stand Up 2 Cancer and other national organizations, along with hundreds of small businesses across the country. To take part, businesses simply display the organization’s flyer (available on their website) in their salon, studio or clinic and contact Paget to be added to their national roster of participants. “I do not ask any participant what they are offering,” she says. “I am simply grateful for their support to help those affected. I ask that they simply let their clients know about the day.” Local organizations taking part include Myokinetix Functional Performance Health & Wellness, Blown El Paseo at Shear Hair Design, Lucky Boys Hair Salons, Mirela’s Spa & Salon, The Private Club Barbershop, Josef Saliba Salon and Thyme to Tease to name a few. A full list can be found at the organization’s website. “If you know a cancer survivor in another state, reach out to them with the website information,” recommends Paget. “I encourage any cancer survivor to reach out to Feeling Beautiful and Well Day of support for cancer survivors By Lauren Del Sarto Beauty and wellness professionals can make a big difference on this special day. Continued on page 14 Personalized Support offer women of their Well survivors
www.acqpoint.com www.takotaalchemy.com As described by Sigmund Freud, our dreams can be complex inner conversations between our id, ego and superego.« Our evening slumber is often when our inner divas, movie and rock stars appear to help us navigate situations that are hard to address in waking hours. What might a dream mean if our inner rock star is Lady Gaga? One morning, a friend phoned. "Kat, it’s Debbie. I just had the strangest dream! Lady Gaga walked into my living room with her entourage, plunked down in a chair, and said, 'We're here to take you dancing.' She was sexy in a skin-tight body suit and high-heeled boots." "Well, what'd you do?" I asked. "I hid in my bedroom because I felt so ugly. When Gaga stopped singing, 'You're on the right track, Baby!' I went to see if they were gone. She was sitting on the arm of the chair and said, 'We're still waiting for you.' So I went with them. I think the dream is important but makes no sense. Can you help me?" Debbie was in treatment for bone cancer. Understandably, she felt unattractive and feared she might never play tennis, go dancing with her friends or play music as she had done before her diagnosis. Now, she spent most of her time alone. To me, the dream made perfect sense. "If this were my dream, I would remember how I longed to sing with Lady Gaga, who is unafraid to embrace or flaunt her inner goddess and femininity. Hiding in the bedroom where you sleep is hiding in your dreams. Your inner musician and tribe have come to rescue you from loneliness by patiently waiting for you to join them in the living room, in your life. See the play on words?” I advised her to bring that dream into her waking world, to join the friends waiting for her. Belonging to a tribe, the third level of Maslow's hierarchy of needs is one of our most important emotional wellness states.¯ Lady Gaga never hides or apologizes for being herself and sings that she was Born This Way! I asked Debbie if any of that resonated with her and she said it did. She slowly began re-engaging with life and her physical wellness improved. Being alone is normal. However, extreme depression and loneliness can be a form of living death. If suffering an illness, it can be a side effect of medications and treatments.° Check with your doctor if this is true for you. Fortunately, we often have inner artists who can help rescue us through our dreams. If you know a friend hiding themselves away, be their Lady Gaga. Who knows, maybe the next time you feel lonely, Lady Gaga or rapper Snoop Dogg will party in your dream living room to remind you that "you're on the right track, Baby!" Kathleen O'Keefe-Kanavos of Rancho Mirage is a survivor, author, dream expert, speaker, TV/radio host/producer and has been featured on Dr. Oz and The Doctors. Her book, Dreams That Can Save Your Life, is available now. Visit www.KathleenOkeefeKanavos.com. References: 1) https://docmckee.com/oer/criminology/criminology-section-5-1/; 2) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maslow%27s_hierarchyFofFneeds" https! www.cancer.org cancer managing cancer side eɈects emotional mood changes depression.html www.DesertHealthNews.com May/June 2025 Natural Options The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 8 Discover Reiki Sessions • Readings • Retreats Intuitive Life Coaching Call or Text (619) 726-0408 TakotaAlchemy.com Practice located at Live Well Clinic 78900 Ave. 47, #102 • La Quinta Your Inner Power CINDY DOUGLAS Certified Reiki Master/ Life Coach 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 77682 Country Club Drive, Ste. G • Palm Desert 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. Read, Write, Write, Relax, Cruise... Cruise... and Get Published! Published! Alaska 7 Day RT Sea le Aug. 24-31, 2025 Holland America’s Westerdam* Contact Michelle to RESERVE your Workshop at Sea! (800) 658-6869 Introducing Dreamy Writers Writers Conferences at Sea • 4 Ports: Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan, Victoria BC • 2 Workshops • Starting at $1,131 per person inside, double occupancy + tax/port fees $360 per person Hosted by Kathleen O’Keefe Kanavos Author/Speaker/ Dream Expert The amount of solar radiation hitting the Earth varies with the phases of the moon and appears to correlate with human behavior. Observations show an increase in 911 calls and a rise in psychotic behavior on the day of the full moon, higher suicide rates with the waning moon and peak death rates two days after the full moon. Periods of calm in the Earth’s magnetic field are associated with increased sensitivities such as intuition and clairvoyance. Similar to the Earth’s energies, the energies of other people can affect our mental state, as indicated by statements like, “Her presence is very pleasant,” "The tension in the room was palpable," "The atmosphere at the meeting was positive." Scientific studies using electrocardiogram demonstrate that the energy generated by a person's heart affects the heart activity and brain waves of another individual, as detected by electrodes attached to the skin. This effect is most pronounced when individuals are in physical contact, but can still be observed when they are seated up to three feet apart. Rooms and spaces can have their own energy. Think of your grandmother’s kitchen. How does your body respond to the memory of that room? It may even make you smile! Consider the energy of various classrooms where you were a student, an office where you worked, a garage, a theatre or a church. Your memories attached to these locations were influenced by their energy. You may even find yourself pulled toward specific kinds of energy and not toward others. Some people, for instance, are drawn to the energy of horses, others to dogs, cats, or tropical fish. Some people are drawn to the energy of those in need, others to the energy of homeless pets, or activities such as hiking, skiing, golfing, biking or pickleball. We feel a warmth of excitement when we think about these animals or activities, but it is actually the energy produced through the enjoyment to which we are connected. It's important to pay attention to both our internal energy and the external energy around us. Every person carries a flowing stream of energy systems, remarkably complex, coordinated and entirely unique. Every cell, every organ, and every system of the body carries a distinguished energy. Awareness of this complex web of internal energy emanating from our bodies and how external energies impact it is key to thriving both physically and emotionally. Cindy Douglas is a certified Reiki master, life coach, speaker, HeartMath Institute trainer and founder of Takota Alchemy. She also creates and facilitates retreats to unplug and reconnect to the power within. She can be reached at (619) 726.0408 or www.takotaalchemy.com. References: 1) Dean Radin & Janine Rebman, “Lunar Correlates of Normal, Abnormal and Anomalous Human Behavior,” Subtle Energies 1996 (5), 209-238 2) Rollin McCraty, “The Electricity of Touch,” paper presented at the International Society for the Study of Subtle Energies and Energy Medicine, Sixth Annual Conference, Boulder, Colorado, June 24, 1996 3) Donna Eden & David Feinstein, Ph.D, “Energy Medicine,” 2008, p.35 Energies Around Us Can Impact the Energies Within By Cindy Douglas Every person carries a flowing stream of energy systems. Rock star dreams could signify unrealized desires or needs. Dreaming Lady Gaga By Kathleen O'Keefe-Kanavos
Plastics are a large part of our daily life for good or for worse. Plastic contamination has been a growing topic of concern for both health organizations and environmental groups globally. In 2009, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (USA) standardized sampling and defined microplastics as a fragment with size less than 5mm (333μm micrometers). Microplastics and nanoplastics have infiltrated every part of our ecosystem including our soil, air, water and food systems, especially our seafood and even sea salt. Scientists are concerned about how microplastics affect our health. They may contain endocrine disrupting chemicals that can affect hormonal balance and have been linked to dementia, diseases of the kidney and heart, and cancers of the lung and colon. How can we reduce the amount of microplastics entering our bodies and remove what’s already built up? Avoid drinking or eating out of plastic So many materials contain plastic in our everyday lives. Avoid plastic water bottles,“microwave safe” styrofoam, plastic containers, wrappers, utensils and straws. Plastic wrap, ice trays, plastic-coated paper cups, and melamine plates and cups should not be used during food preparation and ingestion. Microwaving plastic food containers can release more than two billion nanoplastics and four million microplastics per square centimeter within only three minutes of microwave heating. Use glass, ceramic, cast iron and stainless steel instead when cooking or heating up food or drink. Retire your plastic cutting boards and plastic cooking utensils Using a polypropylene chopping board (common white plastic boards) equates to consuming 49.5 grams of microplastics while using a polyethylene chopping board equates to 7.4–50.7 grams. Switch to wood or sustainable bamboo cutting boards instead. Stop using mesh or “silk” tea bags Steeping a single plastic tea bag at brewing temperature (203 degrees Fahrenheit) releases more than 11 billion microplastics and 3 billion nanoplastics into each cup. It’s best to use a glass and metal French press or stainless-steel mesh tea strainer instead when brewing your next cup. Check your personal care products Avoid phthalates, bisphenol A and other plastics in lotions, soaps, sunscreens, detergents, deodorants, perfumes and cleaners. There are helpful apps like EWG SkinDeep, ThinkDirty and CodeCheck to make cleaner choices. Update your laundry habits Laundry is one of the top sources of microplastic pollution. Wash full loads, use less detergent, wash in cold water, filter your wash water if possible, hang your clothing to dry and avoid using dryer sheets to help reduce wastewater contamination. Boil and filter your tap water A 2024 Chinese study found that boiling water, letting it cool and then filtering it, can remove over 90% of micro and nano plastics in water. Keeping well hydrated also helps your body flush out toxins daily. Eat plenty of fiber Not only is fiber great for mopping up excess cholesterol in your body, it also helps bind microplastics as well. Shoot for 25-35 grams daily. Work up a sweat Sweating via exercise, sauna, etc. mobilizes toxins through the largest organ in your body, your skin! Not only do you detox microplastics, but you also detox solvents, heavy metals and mold toxins as well. Remember, the best way to get rid of nano and microplastics in your body is to reduce consumption in the first place. Reduction doesn’t have to be 100 percent; mindful consumption leads to better overall health and sustainability for our body and for our planet. Dr. Sonja Fung is a primary care naturopathic doctor with a focus on integrative cancer care and PRP regenerative joint injections at Live Well Clinic in La Quinta. For more information, call (760) 771.5970 or visit www.livewellclinic.org. Sources: 1) https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10072287/; 2) https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii S2215153221001057; 3) https://www.sciencedirect.com/org/science/article/pii/S0973862224000138; 4) https://www.nature.com/articles/ s41591-024-02968-x; 5) https://iee.psu.edu/news/blog/microplastics-sources-health-risks-and-how-protect-yourself; 6) https://www. ucsf.edu/news/2024/02/427161/how-to-limit-microplastics-dangers; 7) https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.estlett.4c00081; 8) https:// pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9695129/; 9) https://www.pbs.org/newshour/science/laundry-is-a-top-source-of-microplastic-pollution-heres-how-to-clean-your-clothes-more-sustainably; 10) https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanres/article/PIIS2213-2600(25)000864/fulltext www.DesertHealthNews.com May/June 2025 Natural Options The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 9 www.livewellclinic.org 760.771.5970 78900 Ave. 47, Suite 102 • La Quinta info@livewellclinic.org www.livewellclinic.org @LiveWellClinicLaQuinta @LiveWellClinic Sonja Fung, ND Naturopathic Doctor Medical Director Live Happy, Live Well Offering Telemedicine Naturopathic Primary Care ProLon FMD (Intermittent Fasting Diet) Photodynamic Therapy Sound Baths Last Wednesday of each month $30/person 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 Wooden cutting boards and utensils are a simple place to start. www.coppermoonrising.com Alison Mullins SPEAKER | WRITER | TEACHER | COACH Where All Things Align Life/Health Coaching Motivational Speaking Yoga and Sound Healing PRIVATE AND CORPORATE ENGAGEMENTS www.coppermoonrising.com alison@coppermoonrising.com 760.485.3433 Tips to Avoid Micro and Nanoplastics By Sonja Fung, ND
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjA1MjUy