. what’sinside 7 Natural Options Presence: The Missing Ingredient Through the Generations The Conversations We Owe Our Parents—and Ourselves 15 Fresh Cuisine Smart Summer Meals: Easy Recipes to Fuel Your Brain 22 Desert Events Check Out our Valley’s Healthy Happenings! 20 Fitness How Long Until You See Results from Personal Training? 19 Medical News Can We Get Past the Past? 5 http://www.deserthealthnews.com/ May/June 2026 Continued on page 13 Health & Beauty Is It True Blondes Have More Fun? Go Ask Claude. 17 Integrative Medicine Integrative Therapies for Parkinson’s 13 Thursday, May 7 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Stergios Bell Tower Bldg. Stroke Prevention Health Fair SCAN HERE TO REGISTER Learn more on page 13 Meet Edith Jones-Poland, M.D. Family and Integrative Care Physician Looking for an integrative primary care physician? mindful mornings By Lauren Del Sarto Nutrition’s Role in Mental Health Food for Thought By Monica Price While May is Mental Health Awareness Month, recognizing the vital role mental health plays in overall well-being is an endeavor that extends far beyond a single month. Equally important is understanding the connection between nutrition and brain health. The foods you choose each day influence not only your physical health, but also your mental and emotional state. Mental health encompasses your emotional, psychological, and social well-being — how you feel, think and respond to life’s challenges. Eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods such as fruits, vegetables and healthy fats supports mental health by nourishing essential systems throughout the body. This includes the gut and immune system, both of which play significant roles in mood regulation and stress management. In contrast, diets high in processed foods and added sugars can disrupt these systems, potentially increasing the risk of anxiety and depression. What to eat for mental well-being Many different foods are known to support a healthy mind. A brain-boosting daily routine may include: • Fatty fish. Salmon, mackerel, herring, tuna and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which play an important role in building and maintaining healthy brain cells, reducing inflammation and supporting a stable mood. • Leafy greens. Spinach, kale, Swiss chard and collard greens are packed with folate, magnesium and antioxidants, which can improve your mood. • Whole grains. Brown rice, oats, quinoa, whole wheat and barley provide steady energy, B vitamins and fiber. They can also help sustain mental focus and a stable mood throughout the day when eaten in thoughtful portions. • Berries and fruits. Blueberries, strawberries, oranges and other brightly colored fruits contain antioxidants and other nutrients that help protect your brain. • Nuts and seeds. Walnuts, almonds, chia seeds, flaxseed and pumpkin seeds supply healthy fats, magnesium and zinc — all important for brain function. • Fermented foods. Plain yogurt with live cultures, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut and miso contain beneficial probiotics, which support a healthy gut What is the first thing you do when you wake each morning? Start ruminating about your day. Check your phone for missed notifications. Scroll through the latest headlines. Ponder the needs of others in your household. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a good time for each of us to look within. What can we do to offer our brains a bit of reprieve? A good place to start is with mindful mornings. Mindfulness is the simple act of choosing presence over autopilot, intention over routine and stillness over action. It’s not about adding more tasks to an already busy day; it’s about owning the few moments of the day that are truly yours, and setting the tone for everything that follows. Pausing to take in all around you creates a sense of steadiness before the world begins to pull at your attention. The first step is giving yourself permission to slow down and ease into your day. Before you rise, close your eyes and notice your breath, the quiet rise and fall that’s been happening without your awareness. This simple act helps awaken the body without jolting it into stress mode, and signals to your mind that you’re beginning the day with intention, not urgency. Mindful mornings thrive on ritual: stepping outside to feel the morning air, enjoying a warm cup of coffee or tea as you listen to the birds begin their daily chorus, or returning to a purposely chosen spot to practice a brief meditation. Rituals work because they’re consistent, sensory and soothing; they remind you that you’re allowed to begin slowly, even if the rest of the day moves fast. When you start your day with awareness, you create space to think clearly, respond thoughtfully, and move through your day with a renewed sense of inner peace. Your restful mind is following you, not leading you into the fray. Tomorrow morning, give it a try. And maybe the next day. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, consider that the best way to move into your day may be by first hittingPause.
www.promedxp.com www.DesertHealthNews.com May/June 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 Lauren Del Sarto Founder/Publisher Tommy and Lauren, Coachella 2026 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! Welcome! So happy you’re here. We’ve danced through yet another sensational season. Time to take a breath and relax a bit. The warmer months ahead mean fewer “must-dos” and more time to tap into what our minds and bodies need. What are you doing for yourself? I’m looking forward to my first five-day fast to cleanse, renew and reset. You just may read about it in our next edition. If you’re seeking inspiration to ease into summer, you’ve come to the right place. Thank you for taking a moment to read, learn, grow — and to celebrate our incredible community. In this edition, many share personal experiences with the hope of helping others. Accomplished hiker Keena Hormel of Indio shares lessons learned on the trail (p.3), while dream expert Kat Kanavos dreams of eating dandelions (p.8). Well-being coach Christy Curtis reflects on forgetting an important ingredient (p.7), while columnist Jennifer Di Francesco reminds us why putting pen to paper still matters (p.15). Matthew Keane, PA, touches on restoring the heart of health care (p.11), while Dr. Jones-Poland shares how music, mindfulness and boxing helped her stepfather through Parkinson’s (p.13). Enhancing individual well-being starts with each of us, and is supported by businesses that work to make the healthy choice the easy choice. That is a principle of the Blue Zones Project in Palm Springs and Coachella, as they recognize four local companies receiving accolades (p. 14). Other organizations are doing the same, inviting you to take part in “Healthy Happenings” (p.20). It's good to be with you. Thank you for reading — and taking time for yourself as we ease into summer. Ready. Set. Pause ~
. Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 3 The Santa Rosa Mountains glowed in soft morning light as I set out on the Bear Creek Oasis Trail, a hike I expected to finish, not one that would end with a helicopter evacuation. It was February, and the trail’s rocky washes and cactus-lined ridges were coming alive with winter blooms in purple, yellow and white. I was prepared: a protein-rich breakfast, a large Yeti bottle of ice water, a second Yeti with an electrolyte drink, a 20-pound pack with first-aid and emergency supplies and two experienced friends. I am an experienced hiker and a strong athlete who also enjoys weight training, cardio and swimming. But despite a healthy lifestyle and long-term effort, I couldn’t lose weight, so I began taking Zepbound (tirzepatide) under medical supervision. For six months, I’d learned how to fuel workouts and control blood sugar while on the GLP-1 medication. I adjusted meals to include smaller, dense servings of protein and complex carbs and I monitored hydration closely. That morning, I followed my usual routine and felt confident and excited to see the desert in bloom. The hike: Bear Creek Oasis and the climb It was a cool 63 degrees when we began the hike at 7 a.m. Just before mile two, the switchbacks began to climb quickly. My friends moved a bit faster, and after 30 minutes at a steady climbing pace, I started to lag behind, though still sipping water and electrolytes. The trail was fully exposed to the sun. An hour in, I felt queasy and nibbled a protein bar. We finally reached our goal: shade near the oasis. I ate a small orange and rested, but my heart rate, monitored on my watch, stayed unexpectedly high. My friend insisted on carrying my pack, and we began hiking back as the temperature rose. The turn: nausea, dizziness and rapid decline Half a mile later, I felt faint. Another stop, more water, a packet of energizing Gu. Nausea persisted. Then the dizziness was so severe I thought I might pass out. I sat, vomited and became very weak; I was really out of it. My friends sprang into action cooling my head with water, activating an ice pack, and using a foil emergency blanket to make shade, while continuously monitoring my heart rate. With vomiting, elevated resting heart rate, lack of sweating, severe fatigue, and muscle cramps (classic red flags for heat illness), I could not safely hike back the remaining 3.5 miles. They called 911. The rescue Rescue arrived by helicopter from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. Because the terrain wouldn’t allow a landing, officers descended by hoist, clicked me into a hot seat and lifted me into the aircraft. The blur of lights and rotor wash felt unreal; I was too weak to fully comprehend what was happening. Later, in the hospital, I realized how close I’d come to heat stroke and how critical my friends’ quick assessment and the sheriff department’s skill had been. I was extremely lucky. What went wrong: how factors converged I believe several interacting factors converged: strenuous, exposed climbing with rapid elevation gain; a heavy pack; increasing heat; and physiological effects related to the Zepbound. In my case, I was eating and drinking, but my body could not use what I consumed as effectively during the intense climb. The suppressed appetite made it harder to maintain the frequent fueling my body needed. Obesity Medicine Specialist Jeralyn Brossfield, MD, explains, “While the medical literature states that GLP-1 receptor agonists do not increase the risk of heat stroke, there are predominant risks for persons using these medications due to the appetitelowering effects and GI-related side-effects.” She adds that people may not take in as much fluid as recommended, and may lose more water and electrolytes than they realize. Thus, they may be at greater risk of dehydration and heat stroke due to low hydration status. Lessons learned: practical takeaways from the trail Zepbound has helped me make progress with my health, but I now proceed with new caution. I survived because of preparation, alert companions and a professional rescue, but the experience forced a change in how I manage activity on medications that blunt appetite and affect digestion and hydration. I’ve adjusted my hiking routines since that day: smaller, denser meals; enhanced pre-hydration and drinking small amounts of liquid throughout the day; stricter pacing; lighter packs; and clearer communication with friends about early signs. Reflection: how this changed my approach to activity and medication I don’t regret taking Zepbound; it has been life-changing! I am reversing a disease pattern that has caused the death of three family members before the age of 69. I am now well informed about how appetite suppression and altered digestion affect what my body needs on the trail, especially hydration. The experience humbled me and reminded me that preparation must include awareness of medication effects and honest communication with companions. I am grateful to my friends whose quick actions kept me from progressing into heat stroke. I also share immense respect and gratitude for the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and Hemet Valley Ambulance for their prompt and professional rescue. Keena Hormel of Indio welcomes questions at klinnhormel@gmail.com. This article is a shared personal experience and is not intended as medical advice. If you have questions about weight loss or other medications and their effect on physical activity, speak with your doctor or health care professional. www.DesertHealthNews.com May/June 2026 www.desertcarenetwork.com/events You’re Invited Stroke Prevention Health Fair Thursday, May 7 | 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Stergios Bell Tower Bldg. 1140 N. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, CA To register, scan the QR code or visitDesertCareNetwork.com/events Hamed Farid, MD Neuro Interventional Radiology Hetal Bhakta, MD Electrophysiology/Cardiology Rutu Dave, MD Neurology Are you taking steps to prevent stroke? Would you recognize stroke symptoms if you were experiencing them? Did you know risks for stroke include high blood pressure, diabetes, AFib and obesity? At this FREE lunch-and-learn event, medical providers will discuss the signs, symptoms and treatment of stroke – a leading cause of adult disability in America. The event includes: • Display booths • Blood pressure checks • Free beach tote to registered guests The author is airlifted from the La Quinta trail Hormel, an experienced hiker, trekking through France Lessons Learned on the Trail GLP-1s add new preparedness factors By Keena Hormel
. www.DesertHealthNews.com May/June 2026 Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 4 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 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. www.cvvim.org COACHELLA VALLEY Your Skills Can Change Lives Questions/More Info Call or email Kristina Kristina.Banda@CVVIM.org (760) 625-0763 APPLY NOW! CVVIM.org Join our volunteer medical team! Flexible hours Just 4 hours per month minimum requirement Locations in Palm Springs or Indio We are seeking: Licensed physicians and specialists Registered nurses & NPS Other health professionals For 16 years, Coachella Valley Volunteers in Medicine (CVVIM) has provided highquality primary care at no cost to uninsured adults. As the Executive Director of the nonprofit organization, I am often asked why our community needs a free primary care clinic. By focusing on prevention and ongoing care, our Palm Springs and Indio clinics help workers stay healthy, reduce avoidable hospital visits and strengthen the community as a whole. Let’s take a look… In the Coachella Valley, many of the people who keep our community running go without basic health care. They work in agriculture, hospitality, construction, retail, caregiving and other service industries. While they are employed, often full-time, many remain uninsured because health insurance premiums are unaffordable and employersponsored coverage is frequently unavailable. For these working adults, primary health care is out of reach due to cost, not due to apathy. When access to care depends on affordability, preventive care becomes a casualty. Uninsured workers delay doctor visits, skip medications and ignore symptoms until problems become severe. What begins as untreated high blood pressure, diabetes or a minor infection often escalates into a medical emergency. That outcome not only harms the individual but also the entire community. Free primary care for uninsured adults is one of the most effective ways to strengthen health and stability in the Coachella Valley. Primary care focuses on prevention, early diagnosis and managing chronic conditions before they spiral out of control. When people can access care without fear of financial ruin, they seek help earlier and more consistently. Emergency rooms across the valley regularly treat patients whose conditions could have been managed safely and affordably in a primary care setting. Uninsured workers often rely on emergency departments as a last resort because it is the only option available. These visits are costly, strain hospital resources and contribute to overcrowding. Expanding access to free primary care helps reduce avoidable emergency visits and lowers uncompensated care costs that ultimately affect everyone. The economic benefits are equally clear. A workforce struggling with untreated illness is less productive and less reliable. Missed workdays, decreased performance and preventable disability hurt workers and employers alike. This impact is especially felt by small businesses and labor-dependent industries that are critical to the Coachella Valley’s economy. Healthy workers are more stable workers, and access to care helps keep people on the job. Public health depends on access as well. Many uninsured workers serve the public directly and work in close-contact environments, handling food, cleaning facilities, and caring for children and seniors. Without access to routine care, vaccinations, and timely treatment, preventable illnesses spread more easily throughout the region. Free primary care does not replace health insurance; it fills a critical gap for people who are working hard yet fall through the cracks of our health care system. In a community as interconnected as ours, investing in basic care for uninsured workers is not just compassionate; it is practical, responsible and essential to a thriving Coachella Valley. Doug Morin is the executive director of Coachella Valley Volunteers in Medicine. For more information and how you can help support through volunteering or donations, visit www.CVVIM.org. How Free Primary Care for Uninsured Workers Benefits All By Doug Morin
. Our personal history can serve as valuable lessons. Don’t be afraid to explore. Your valuable history is not Pandora’s Box; it has led you towards a perfectly imperfect you. Visualize a container and imagine your past confined inside. You can open that box and remove any piece of historical information you wish. You can also safely contain it by closing it shut until you are ready to explore the next time. In everyday life, when you find yourself in an emotionally uncomfortable situation, ask yourself how you’re feeling. When the feeling is identified, ask yourself what you can do to better care for yourself in that moment (e.g., take a walk, verbalize your need for space, practice controlled breathing, or try journaling). This simple practice can help you identify if your inner child or your core adult self is present during that challenging time. You can then support your core adult self to grow, mature and shine. The good news is that with focused attention on your past, you can move beyond it and emerge empowered. Whether individually or in a therapeutic setting, it is possible to reframe historical hardships to attain a heightened sense of authentic self-worth and healthier relationships moving forward. Dr. Amy Austin is a licensed marriage and family therapist (MFC#41252) and doctor of clinical psychology in Rancho Mirage. She can be reached at (760) 774.0047. References: 1) “Study of Attachment: The Impact of Early Attachment and Current Functioning Through Relational Models of Therapy.” Amy Austin's doctoral dissertation (2004); 2) Bowlby, J. (1988) A Secure Base. New York: Basic Books. Ainsworth, M.D.S., Blehar M.C., Wall, S., & Waters, E. (1978). Patterns of attachment: A psychological study of the strange situation. Hillsdale, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates. Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 5 www.DesertHealthNews.com Our relationship choices begin forming at birth. May/June 2026 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! www.desertvascularassociates.com "Dr. Anna Gasparyan is an absolute godsend. She is so kind and caring and truly cares about her patients. We have never received this type of care anywhere else and are forever grateful." – CWC 760.902.1511 74000 Country Club Drive, Ste. 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 Palm Desert High School (PDHS) offers its students an incredible opportunity to explore their interest in the medical field through the Palm Desert Health Academy. This three-year program introduces students to health care education early, helping them build a strong foundation for future careers in medicine. The Health Academy prepares the Coachella Valley’s next generation of health care professionals by providing students access to hands-on learning experiences, clinical simulations, community involvement and various medical certifications, all supported by strong classroom instruction. Over the course of the program, students develop valuable skills essential to a career in medicine. By the time they graduate, they are better equipped and more confident as they pursue their next steps. Here is what some of our health academy students shared as reasons for joining the program: Galilea Perez Duran: “In the Health Academy, I developed strong communication, teamwork, and collaboration skills by working with others in labs and group activities. I gained hands-on experience taking vital signs, performing phlebotomy and practicing proper wound care, while also earning certifications in CPR/First Aid and medical terminology. Overall, the program helped me become more responsible, professional, and confident in my abilities.” Stefany Castellanos: “I have always known that I wanted to be in the medical field. The health academy has opened doors for me to find my career and gain hands-on experience through identifying and committing to an internship.” Avril Ayala: “I decided to join the Health Academy because I like the hospital setting and helping people with medical conditions." I joined the academy to explore the health care field. At first, I wasn't sure if health care was right for me, but joining the academy sparked my interest. Now, as a senior, I can say it was one of the best decisions I’ve made. I’ve enjoyed learning how the body works and gaining skills I’ll use in nursing school, such as medical terminology, vital signs and CPR. My favorite experiences have been dissections, phlebotomy and college trips. The Health Academy program helped me find my passion for health care. Thankfully, I got accepted into California State University, San Bernardino (CSUCB) as a nursing major student for Fall 2026, along with two of my academy classmates, Galilea and Avril recognized above. We feel proud and thankful because the program is competitive and getting accepted as a pre-nursing major at CSUSB is not easy. The Health Academy program has prepared us well to pursue our dreams and take the next steps in our future career paths. For more information on the valley’s high school medical academies, contact Kim McNulty with OneFuture Coachella Valley at kim@onefuturecv.org. PDHA: A Step Ahead Going Into the Future By Student Diana Navarro Clients often enter therapy questioning why they are in yet another toxic or dysfunctional relationship. My mantra is, “You’re either going to be it, or get into a relationship with it, unless you explore it.” People have a predisposition to that which is familiar. Thus, they may robotically repeat unhealthy mental and emotional behaviors until awareness, or sometimes traumatic events, inspire them to make healthier choices. Where do these patterns begin? Often, early insecure attachment to a parental figure(s) can have crucial maladaptive effects on the formation of one’s psyche. This can lead to self-defeating, self-sabotaging behaviors throughout life. Pioneering psychiatrist John Bowlby, MD, described healthy attachment behavior as the result of a child attaining or sustaining a close relationship with someone whom they trust has a greater sense of the world. When that attachment figure is available and responsive, the child experiences an enduring sense of security. This allows them to prize and pursue the valued relationship.² If all goes well, there is joy and a sense of security. If it is threatened, there can be jealousy, anxiety, anger, grief and depression.2 Through continued interaction, a child develops “internal working models” or beliefs and expectations about the primary caregiver’s trustworthiness and responsiveness. This, in turn, develops the child’s sense of personal worthiness.³ It has been noted that securely attached infants have been found to exhibit greater competence with peers, greater ego resiliency, and more confidence than their insecurely attached counterparts.³ Can We Get Past the Past? By Amy Austin, PSYD, LMFT MENTORING THE FUTURE
. www.eisenhowerhealth.org/awards In March, health care leaders, civic officials and business professionals gathered for the inaugural State of Healthcare Expo & Luncheon, presented by the Rancho Mirage Chamber of Commerce. The event brought together key figures shaping health care across the Coachella Valley, providing an inside look at the priorities, challenges and innovations influencing the region’s medical landscape. “We live in a community that values wellness, longevity and quality of life,” stated Chamber President and CEO Katie Slimko-Tuvell, as she welcomed guests. Centered on the theme “Shaping Healthcare Today and Tomorrow: Vision, Strategy, AI and a Global Perspective,” the program highlighted plans addressing the valley’s continued population growth—with the east valley considered “the new frontier” for focus and development—technology and the human aspect of medicine. Presentations emphasized how emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, are enhancing diagnostic capabilities and streamlining administrative processes. Leaders emphasized that, while technology continues to advance, the human aspect of health care remains a driving force for growth. “I think we are now living through the greatest transformation in the history of medicine,” stated Eisenhower Health’s Chief Quality and Medical Officer Eric Leroux, MD. Modern medicine has built a system that asks physicians to become data entry clerks, he adds, leading to 63% of physicians reporting burnout. As such, many practitioners have considered leaving the profession, a primary factor contributing to the workforce shortages facing health care systems nationwide. The technology emerging today is taking care of many of those administrative tasks, allowing doctors more time to be doctors, added Leroux. And, “the spaces between clinician and patient are where the medicine and healing actually happen.” Workforce development emerged as a key theme. Speakers emphasized the ongoing effort to recruit and retain skilled physicians, nurses and specialized providers to meet the needs of our growing and aging population. Whole-person care was also discussed, with areas of growth including behavioral health and spiritual services. The human focus expands to that growing workforce. Eisenhower Health, one of the valley’s largest employers, shared its plan to build a new employee childcare center adjacent to a new memory care center with “37,000 square feet of intergenerational activities.” The inaugural state-of-health-care event set a promising precedent. With significant participation by local health and wellness organizations, strong attendance, engaged discussion and top leadership presentations, the luncheon is poised to become an important annual forum for addressing the Coachella Valley’s evolving health care needs. For more information, visit www.ranchomiragechamber.org. www.DesertHealthNews.com May/June 2026 Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 6 www.movementforlife.com/desert • 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 www.capcomts.com HIPAA Compliance Backup/Disaster Recovery Network Design & Support Cyber Security Help Desk Support and more! It is our mission to ensure your business success through effective management, continuity and stability of all your technology needs. CapCom has a 25-year track record of innovative work, creating complete IT systems and solutions for companies in the healthcare sector. CapComTS.com 760.424.2216 info@CapComTS.com CapCom / Desert Health / one-eighth-page horizontal ad / size: 4.875” W x 3.562” H Thank you, U.S. News & World Report, for listing us as one of the “Best Hospitals” in the region and California. We’re grateful to our exceptional care teams and hospital workers whose talent and dedication made this honor possible. We were also recognized for our high quality care in 18 specialties, surgeries and procedures. • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair • Aortic Valve Surgery • Colon Cancer Surgery • Gynecological Cancer Surgery • Heart Bypass Surgery • Hip Fracture • Hip Replacement • Knee Replacement • Leukemia, Lymphoma & Myeloma • Lung Cancer • Orthopedics • Pacemaker Implantation • Pneumonia • Prostate Cancer Surgery • Spinal Fusion • Stroke • TAVR • Urology We look forward to building on and even surpassing this level of excellence in the coming year and delivering the best possible care to the people we serve. Learn more about our accreditations and recognitions at EisenhowerHealth.org/Awards. Quality Health Care Counts. You Can Count on Eisenhower Health for Truly Exceptional Performance. Eisenhower Health presenters (left to right): CMO Eric Leroux, MD, COO Ken Wheat, CIO Ken Buechele and CEO Martin Massiello State of Health Care: Innovation and the Human Aspect of Medicine By Lauren Del Sarto
.www.groundedjoywellness.org One of Desert Health’s primary goals is to encourage readers to be their own health advocates. This includes “knowing your numbers,” which has never been easier with today’s health-tracking devices, such as smart watches and Ouro rings. Adding to those options is the emerging category of smart scales. Bathroom scales measuring weight have been household staples for more than a century. But today’s smart scales go far beyond, tracking body composition, hydration levels, bone density, muscle mass, heart and vascular insights and more. The data is synced with your smartphone, maintains trends and can be sent to your health care provider. I was excited to get one, but quickly became overwhelmed by the large selection and factors to consider. Using AI to research and organize all the specifications further overwhelmed me, so I thought I’d share what I learned as a starting point. How they work (basically). Smart scales use a technology called bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) that estimates body composition by sending a low-level electrical current through the body. Electrical resistance through body tissue is measured: muscle and water conduct electricity easily, so they offer low resistance, while fat resists electricity, showing high resistance. The scale’s processor uses the resistance data coupled with your weight, and sometimes your height, age and sex, to calculate body composition metrics such as body fat percentage, muscle mass, bone mass, hydration levels, etc. Originally, BIA devices were large and primarily used in clinical or research settings, as in the DEXA scan your doctor may have ordered for bone density. While at-home BIA technology continues to evolve, it remains an estimation tool, not a diagnostic device, and clinical methods like DEXA scans remain the gold standard for diagnosis. What they can do. As BIA and supporting technologies evolve, advanced features also include heart-pumping efficiency, hypertension risk, glycemic regulation, cellular vitality, inflammation levels, nervous system tracking and more. Newer entrants into the growing market even include behavioral health coaching, personalized wellness insights and gender-focused platforms. Price point. I found that smart scales range in price from $26 to $600 (a big difference), so questions to ask yourself include: • What metrics are important to me? Do I want to simply track weight and body mass index (BMI) or do I want a full health lab for the home? • Will it be for a single or multiple users? •Do I want the software to integrate with an existing health platform (i.e. Apple, Garmin, Fitbit, etc.)? www.DesertHealthNews.com May/June 2026 Continued on page 18 Natural Options The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 7 Ground through life’s transitions. Reset your nervous system. Reclaim your joy. Redesign your life. Christy Curtis 949.303.8256 christycurtiswellness@gmail.com groundedjoywellness.org MINDFUL WELLBEING COACH Mindful Wellbeing Coaching Speaking Engagements Curated Retreats + Workshops Last week, I stood in my kitchen preparing curry chicken and vegetable soup. I had discovered a new recipe and had been craving it all day. The vegetables were chopped with care, broth simmering softly, sunlight stretching across the counter. But while cooking, I answered a phone call. Replied to an email. Scrolled briefly through the internet. When I finally sat down to eat, I took one bite and immediately knew something was missing. The curry. The spice that gives the dish its warmth, depth and character. Yet what was truly missing was not seasoning — it was presence. In our culture of productivity and performance, distraction has become habitual. We eat while scrolling. We listen while preparing our response. We move quickly from one obligation to the next, rarely inhabiting the moment in which we are in, and like my soup, something essential gets left out. Presence, the deliberate act of paying attention with intention, restores richness to our lives. Neuroscience supports what contemplative traditions have long taught: when we bring awareness to the present moment, the nervous system shifts from sympathetic activation, our fight-or-flight response into parasympathetic regulation, the state of rest and repair. Cortisol lowers. Heart rate steadies. Digestion improves. The body reallocates energy from defense toward restoration. This is not abstract philosophy; it is measurable physiology. Mindful eating offers a clear example. When we slow down enough to taste our food, notice texture and recognize natural hunger and fullness cues, we enhance vagal tone and digestive efficiency.² Research shows that intentional breathing increases heart rate variability, a marker strongly associated with resilience, emotional regulation and longevity.³ By interrupting automatic patterns, we strengthen the prefrontal cortex, the region responsible for thoughtful decision-making rather than reactive impulses.3 The practice is elegantly simple. I call it the “AAA” of mindful living: Awareness, Attention and Attitude. Awareness notices what is happening. Attention chooses where to focus. Attitude brings curiosity instead of criticism. Together, they create a pause. And within that pause lies choice. Presence is not about perfection; it is about participation. It transforms an ordinary meal into nourishment. A conversation into connection. A breath into renewal. In the desert, we appreciate stillness and open space, yet even here, life can accelerate. The invitation is not to withdraw from ambition, but to inhabit it fully and intentionally. You can begin with one simple question: How is my breath? Notice the rhythm. Is it shallow or steady? Where do you feel it in your body? This gentle inquiry anchors the wandering mind and initiates a new neural pathway, one that favors regulation over reaction. Over time, this practice builds clarity, steadiness and a more grounded baseline of well-being. Just as curry transforms soup, presence transforms life. The missing ingredient is not external. It is available in every breath. Christy Curtis is the founder of Grounded Joy Wellness and offers private mindfulnessbased health and life coaching, corporate and educational speaking engagements, refined movement experiences and curated holistic retreats. She can be reached at christycurtiswellness@gmail.com. www.groundedjoywellness.org. References: 1) https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/food-body-love/202412/the-vagus-nerve-glp-1s-and-food-noise; 2) Chaitanya, S., Datta, A., Bhandari, B., & Sharma, V. K. (2022). Effect of resonance breathing on heart rate variability and cognitive functions in young adults: A randomized controlled study. Cureus, 14(2), e22187. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.22187; 3) Tang, Y.-Y., Hölzel, B. K., & Posner, M. I. (2015). The neuroscience of mindfulness meditation. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 16(4), 213–225. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn3916 Presence: The Missing Ingredient By Christy Curtis Smart scales like Withings (pictured here) are creating personal health labs for the home. www.hfhcv.org Smart Scales Bring Health Home Where to start when considering one By Lauren Del Sarto
. www.sacredwomancollective.com www.DesertHealthNews.com May/June 2026 Natural Options The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 8 Curated circles, gatherings and retreats for women drawn to connection, reflection, and community Visit SacredWomanCollective.com to learn more. (760) 485-3433 alison@sacredwomancollective.com sacredwomancollective Alison Mullins, IPHM International Practitioners of Holistic Medicine “Holding space” has become a familiar phrase in today’s wellness conversations, often described as new or “alternative.” In reality, it reflects a long-standing human practice rooted in connection, observation and presence. Across cultures and throughout history, people have gathered to listen, witness, grieve and celebrate together. What we now call “holding space” is not a new concept, but a return to these fundamental ways of relating. At its core, holding space is the act of being fully present with another person without attempting to fix, change or direct their experience. It involves active listening, non-judgmental awareness and emotional attunement. In clinical and behavioral health settings, similar principles are reflected in patient-centered care, therapeutic presence and empathetic listening—all of which have been shown to improve emotional well-being and strengthen interpersonal trust. Holding space can take many forms. It may be as simple as listening without interruption, maintaining eye contact or just sitting in silence with someone. It may also include forms of nourishment and support that convey care and safety. In this context, nourishment extends beyond nutrition; it includes the quality of attention we offer, the tone of our presence and the way we acknowledge another person’s experience. Research in social and emotional health suggests that feeling seen and understood can significantly impact stress levels, resilience and overall well-being. Despite its simplicity, holding space can feel challenging. When someone is experiencing grief, loss or uncertainty, there is often a natural impulse to solve the problem or offer advice. Or, if someone else’s situation feels beyond our understanding, we may choose to withdraw altogether. However, absence from others, especially during times of distress, can leave those affected feeling isolated. Individuals in distress are often not seeking solutions, but rather connection. A calm, steady presence can help regulate emotional responses and create a sense of safety, even when the situation itself cannot be changed. Holding space is equally relevant in moments of joy. Supporting another person’s positive emotional state, without comparison or minimization, reinforces connection and strengthens relationships. The ability to fully witness both difficulty and joy reflects emotional flexibility, a key component of mental and relational health. Importantly, the practice of holding space also extends inward. To hold space for oneself is to develop self-awareness without immediate judgment or reaction. Mindfulness-based approaches, widely supported in research, emphasize observing thoughts and emotions without attachment or avoidance. This internal form of holding space can improve emotional regulation, reduce stress and enhance overall well-being. In a culture increasingly shaped by digital communication and constant stimulation, the practice of holding space offers a counterbalance. While technology allows for continuous connection, it often lacks the depth and presence that human nervous systems rely on for true regulation and support. Holding space reintroduces that depth. It is not dependent on having the right words or solutions. Rather, it is grounded in presence, attention and the willingness to remain with another person—or oneself—through both ease and difficulty. In this way, holding space is both timeless and timely: a simple, evidence-supported practice that reconnects us to how we are naturally wired to relate, support and heal. Alison Mullins is a holistic health coach accredited by the International Practitioners of Holistic Medicine (IPHM). She is the founder of Coppermoon and owner of the Sacred Woman Collective Coachella Valley Branch and can be reached at alison@coppermoonrising.com or (760) 485.3433. www.coppermoonrising.com. Holding Space An ancient practice with modern relevance By Alison Mullins, IPHM Have you ever drooled on your pillow while dreaming of dining? You may have experienced a healing food dream. It begs the question, "Why did I eat what I ate in my dream, and what does it mean?" Remembering dreams of food can improve our lives. If we are what we eat, then food has been a source of healing, health and wellness since prehistoric humans drew on cave walls to share dreamy food stories. Now, interpretations abound in medical publications such as Psychology Today,² a large variety of books, podcasts and more. When I was undergoing treatment for breast cancer, I had the strangest healing food dream. I was anemic from chemo and deficient in calcium and vitamins. In my dream, a Franciscan monk walked up to me and said, “Eat dandelions.” I answered, “You want me to eat weeds?” My research showed that dandelions are superfoods rich in vitamins A, C and K, as well as calcium, iron and potassium. They also contain antioxidants that help protect against cell damage from chemotherapy and other toxins. Every part of the plant, from root to flower, is edible and has long been used as medicine.³ I boiled the stems and leaves, sautéed them, and made delicious dandelion tea from the water. What a weed. And what a dream! Although dreams often use signs and symbols to communicate, my literal dream used words.º Remembering foods that appear in our dreams can help us form new eating habits that embrace good food, not just good taste. Food patterns may take root in our subconscious, creating a healthier circle of life celebrated in our dreams. This is called dreamwork. Unresolved issues may result in unhealthy eating habits and choices. Emotional eating can carry over into our dreams, which are a microcosm of our waking world. Dreamwork enables us to explore life-altering scenarios and discover solutions to enhance our lives. Tonight, write your food-related dream intention in your dream journal. Upon waking, take time to recollect your dreams if you can. If you don’t remember your nighttime dreams, pay attention to your daydreams, which can also relay missed messages. It has been thousands of years since early humans drew on caves, yet today, we don’t need handprints on walls to guide us; we have oneirology, the scientific study of dreams, which is opening up a growing field of dream interpretation. Kathleen O'Keefe-Kanavos of Rancho Mirage is a dream expert, cancer survivor, author, speaker and TV/radio host/producer. She has been featured on Dr. Oz and The Doctors and her new award-winning book, Dreams That Can Save Your Life, is now available. For more information, visit www.KathleenOkeefeKanavos.com. References: 1) https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-wisdom-your-dreams/201101/eating-in-dreams; 2) https://learningenglish. voanews.com/a/dandelions-one-of-the-healthiest-foods-on-the-planet-/4895704.html; 3) Dreams That Can Save Your Life: Early Warning Signs of Cancer and Other Diseases; by Larry Burk M.D. C.E.H.P., Kathleen O'Keefe-Kanavos Findhorn Press – April 17, 2018 Chapter 5, pg 49-50. 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