A NEW YOU
A New You
When it comes to health, you may have heard people say, “It is never too late to make a change.” It’s true. Personally, I’ve also heard, “Why put off to tomorrow what you can do today?” That is often easier said than done. Life gets in the way of plans. Or is it what happens while you are making plans? Either way, I think it is safe to say we all want to live a happier and healthier life—sometimes we just don’t know where to start. As you read through this annual special section, “A New You,” you will see columns and resources from local experts in pharmaceuticals, fitness, mental health and ancient healing, among others. These articles—straight from the professional authority—are aimed at helping you, and all members of your family, achieve a balanced, joyful and healthy life. So, read through and see what may help on your journey to becoming a new you.
—ANDREA PAPAGIANIS
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A NEW YOU
Fare Intolerance Is your diet affecting your general health? By Anne-Marie Amigleo, Holistic Health Coach
THERE’S A GOOD CHANCE CERTAIN FOODS ARE WREAKING HAVOC INSIDE YOUR BODY. Do you suffer from fatigue, brain fog, headaches, cravings, weight gain, joint pain, irregular digestion, skin rashes, runny nose, depression, mood swings and other symptoms that seem to appear without cause? If so, read on. All of these are possible signs of food sensitivities. Identifying a sensitivity to food may be the breakthrough you’ve been looking for to reclaim your health.
Everyone has unique food and lifestyle needs. Food affects everyone differently and most people have no idea their bodies react poorly to certain foods. Every time you eat a food you are sensitive to, a reaction is triggered. Reactions can strike anywhere from a few hours to days after the problematic food is eaten. The most common “trigger-causing” foods are corn, soy, dairy, eggs, wheat and gluten. Yes, gluten-free is more than a fad diet. However, depending on the person, other foods can trigger reactions too. There are a couple of ways you can identify a food sensitivity. First, ask your doctor for a blood test to measure the presence of immunoglobulin E antibodies to specific foods. These tests, coupled with your medical history, can help identify probable allergies. However, they are not always 100 percent accurate. Another way to identify a food sensitivity is through an elimination diet—a diet where you remove “trigger” foods for a period of time. During this time, take note of any bodily changes you experience. Then, after the elimination phase, move into the reintroduction phase where you slowly introduce the previously removed foods one at a time to see if there is a reaction. When realizing you have to remove certain foods from your diet, many feelings may arise: frustration, anger, or even fear. That’s because it’s much more than knowing what to eat and what not to eat. It’s about learning new habits and changing your lifestyle. But the right system, support and accountability can make the process as easy as possible. You can regain your health and vitality, and look and feel amazing too. Anne-Marie Amigleo is a Certified Holistic Health Coach and former special education teacher who specializes in teaching families how to address food sensitivities with diet and lifestyle changes to improve chronic conditions. Visit www. amigleohealthcoach.com to find out more.
Common Allergy, Intolerance Prone Foods
Peanuts Page 4
Eggs
Seafood
Milk
Soy
Tree Nuts
Wheat
A NEW YOU
Consistency is the key. Show up, especially on the days you don’t want to.
A New You through Balance
FITNESS SPOTLIGHT TRAINING CAMP Hot yoga, barre and circuit training: These classes make up the Training Camp’s fitness lineup. This isn’t your typical hot yoga studio. The Training Camp touts a one-of-a-kind heating system that keeps a constant stream of fresh air circulating. But perhaps the center’s best feature is its understanding of parenthood. Each day, morning classgoers can bring their infants, toddlers and kids to playcare—just another way the Training Camp sets clients up for success in a healthy, encouraging environment. 34000 Via De Agua, San Juan Capistrano 949.489.8100, www.tchotyoga.com
FITNESS SPOTLIGHT BILLY BLANKS TAE BO STUDIO
Personalized, compounded medications can address your individual needs, restore stability By Dr. Eugene Medley, Sea View Pharmacy
ARE YOU TAKING CARE OF YOU? Life is full of ups and downs and unpredictable obstacles that can lead to an array of changes in your body. Every day we experience a change to the balance that keeps us centered. It is how we handle these unique and individual experiences that make us feel ourselves or whole. Of course the easiest way to overcome the everyday challenges that we encounter is through proper lifestyle choices: proper nutrition through a balanced diet, exercise via an active lifestyle versus a sedentary existence and emotional wellbeing by overcoming that onslaught of stress that we pile on ourselves. But of course, that is only if you can manage to stay on the so called easy path. So, are you providing yourself all of the tools at your disposal to achieve a balanced life? An effective tool that I have found is to restore balance through pharmaceutical compounding and nutraceutical supplementation. Nutraceuticals provide building blocks for health. Pharmacy compounding is the art and science of preparing customized medications for specific patients. Its practice dates to the origins of pharmacy, way back to Babylonia. In the 1950s and ’60s, pharmaceutical companies became mass manufacturers of drugs, and the Doctor of Pharmacy’s role changed from an apothecary to a dispenser of
manufactured dosage forms. However, this “one-size-fits-all” approach meant that some patients’ medication needs were not being met. Recently, compounding has experienced a major resurgence. Modern technology, innovative techniques and research have allowed pharmacists to create personalized medications via scientific processes that defined a specific set of standards for the quality and consistency of medications being produced. Informed and involved patients are working with their doctors to address their unique and individual health needs. A compounding pharmacist can consult with your doctor about ways to personalize a medication for you. Through a triad relationship of patient, physician and pharmacist, all three of us can work together to solve your unique needs to restore your balance and achieve that “new you.” Dr. Eugene Medley, owner and pharmacist of Sea View Pharmacy located in San Clemente, is recognized as an expert in pharmaceutical compounding, a method that provides individualized therapy to patients. Visit www.seaviewpharmacy.com or call 949.496.0123 to find out more.
Billy Blanks Tae Bo Studio. Photo: Courtesy
This is more than a gym. It’s a family affair at Billy Blanks Tae Bo® Studio where support is the ultimate result’s factor. Here, all involved parties, whether coaches or fellow clients, work together to achieve one another’s health and fitness goals. From Tae Kwon Do to the full-body, at-home workout that took America by storm in the 1990s, Tae Bo classes are taught by a team of experienced instructors and the creator of these fast-paced, martial arts-meets-dance workouts, Billy Blanks. 34207 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point 949.542.4348, www.taebostudio.com
“A power plant doesn’t have energy, it generates energy. Your body is a power plant, and you always have enough energy to finish your workout strong.” —Billy Blanks, Billy Blanks Tae Bo Studio Page 5
A NEW YOU
Aging Gracefully A look at age management medicine By Dr. Colin X. Jairam, Hybrid MD
LET’S FACE IT, THE AGING PROCESS IS NO FUN FOR ANYONE. Women deal with menopause while men go through something similar called andropause. Age Management Medicine is an emerging medical specialty that seeks to address the aging process for both men and women. One can think of it as a wellness specialty that serves to prevent the onset of disease and, in some cases, reverse the beginning stages of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and hypertension. Heart disease alone accounts for 800,000 American deaths annually. A good age management program starts with extensive lab work that looks at various inflammatory markers and disease causing indicators, much more than what would be on a standard lab panel.
Youth Isn’t Wasted on the Young
Finding the right fit, staying active as you age
Had George Bernard Shaw, Oscar Wilde and Mark Twain (the disputed authors of the quote: “Youth is wasted on the young”) lived in south Orange County today, they may have rethought their choice of words. Each day of the week, in senior centers throughout Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano, free and low-cost classes, activities and meals are offered to senior residents. From yoga and pilates to bingo, bridge and casino trips, there is rarely a shortage of activities for the young at heart. DANA POINT Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street 949.496.4252, www.danapoint.org SAN CLEMENTE Dorothy Visser Senior Center, 117 Avenida Victoria 949.498.3322, www.san-clemente.org SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO San Juan Community Center, 25925 Camino Del Avion 949.493.5911, www.sanjuancapistrano.org
Using this information, your age management doctor can determine if you are deficient in any hormones—the main cause of aging being the declining hormone levels we experience. This loss seems to be more evident after the age of 30 for both men and women. In fact, testosterone levels in men decline at a rate of 2 percent per year after the age of 30, leading to the symptoms of andropause. Aging is also directly linked to the food we eat. Much of our diet consists of highly-processed foods that can lead to inflammation in our bodies. Inflammation, in turn, accelerates the aging process and leads to disease. Age management care is most beneficial when an individual follows an anti-inflammatory diet. It’s a fact: An anti-inflammatory diet is the foundation of any good age management program. There are many tools out there, like the JZ Fitness Nutrition app by fitness expert Jennifer Zerling that teaches just that—an anti-inflammatory diet with more than 50 meal suggestions. Additionally, a lack of movement and weight gain accelerates the aging process far more than we realize. Age managePage 6
ment addresses exercise, including frequency, duration and intensity, for all age groups. Improving your cardiovascular endurance through exercise helps to minimize your risk for cardiovascular disease—the number one killer in adults today, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Age management therefore addresses three key factors in the aging process: hormone deficiency, diet and exercise. Looking at these three things collectively rather than separately helps to minimize the unpleasant consequences of the aging process and allows one to lead a more productive and healthy life. Dr. Colin Jairam is the CEO/ CMO of Hybrid MD in San Clemente, a practice that combines the medical specialties of urgent care, laser and aesthetic medicine as well as age management medicine under one roof. For more information about Dr. Jairam and his practice, visit www.hybridmdoc.com or call 949.429.1919.
LET’S GET PHYSICAL PILATES Monday, Friday at Dorothy Visser Senior Center; 9 a.m. Fitness classes aimed at improving your flexibility, posture and abdominal strength as well as reducing joint, back and neck pains. SIT N FIT CHAIR Monday, Wednesday and Friday at San Juan Community Center; 10:15 a.m. In this lowimpact, video class you’ll work to stretch and tone all areas of the body. Free. STRETCH AND TONE Monday, Wednesday and Friday at San Juan Community Center; 8:30 a.m. Focus on stretching and toning various muscle groups. The class is free and ongoing. YOGA Tuesday, Thursday at Dorothy Visser Senior Center; 9 a.m. Reconnect and center your mind, body and spirit during these hourlong, gentle-yoga, fitness classes.
GAMES AREN’T JUST FOR KIDS BINGO Wednesday at Dorothy Visser Senior Center; 1 p.m.–3 p.m. Go for the jackpot each week. BINGO Monday through Friday at Dana Point Community Center; 12:15 p.m. Games hosted each day after hot lunch service. CARD GAMES Daily at San Juan Community Center; 1 p.m.–4 p.m. Try your hand at Bridge, Canasta, Rummy, Pinochle, Mahjong and others. Call 949.443-6358 or stop by to see what game is being played. HULA CLASS Tuesdays at Old Fire Station Complex, 31421 La Matanza; 9:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m. Beginner and intermediate students can learn to dance “awana style” modern hula. Class is free.
KNOWLEDGE AT EVERY AGE ESTATE PLANNING Second Tuesday at San Juan Community Center; 9 a.m.–11:30 a.m. Private half-hour legal, estate planning and trust services are offered by Attorney Judith Jamroz. LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP/ BOOK CLUB Second Thursday at San Juan Community Center; 10 a.m.–noon. Hosted by the Braille Institute of Orange County. Call 714.821.5000 for more information. WILL COUNSELING Third Wednesday at Dorothy Visser Senior Center. Meet with an advisor on will planning by appointment. Call 949.498.3322 to schedule.
LAUGH, SHARE AND EAT DANA POINT Meals are served weekdays at 11:45 a.m. at the community/senior center. Meals include beverage, dessert and good fellowship. $4.50 donation recommended. Call 949.496.4252 for menu. SAN CLEMENTE Share a meal with friends at the senior center Monday through Friday. Lunch is served at 11:45 a.m. $4.50 suggested donation. 949.498.3322 SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO Lunch is served Monday through Friday at the community center. $4 suggested donation. Reservations are required two days in advance. Call 949.493.5921. *Free transportation to all city lunches available on request.
A NEW YOU
Diabetes and Your Vision
Your eyes say it all: Severity of disease can be seen through eye damage By Dr. Brian T. Kim, Harvard Eye Associates
“WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT FOR ME AS A DIABETIC TO CONTROL MY SUGARS? I FEEL PERFECTLY FINE!” This is a common sentiment I hear from patients. As an ophthalmologist and retina specialist, I treat many diabetics in my practice. It is widely understood that diabetics have more health problems overall affecting the heart, nerves, skin, feet and eyes. Diabetes is a blood sugar disorder but it is better thought of as a problem of blood vessels. It is better conceptualized as sugar crystals traveling through the blood stream puncturing and damaging blood vessels. The only place in the body we can see microscopic vascular damage is in the eyes and from them we can often gauge the severity of damage in other organs. Diabetes manifests as bleeding and vascular leakage in the retina, cataracts, glaucoma, and in the worst cases, loss of the eye itself.
What makes diabetes so dangerous and difficult to manage is that symptoms often do not occur until the most advanced stages when irreparable damage has already occurred. Though diabetes is often diagnosed in middle age, we are currently facing an epidemic of childhood obesity and juvenille diabetes. Sadly, this means a growing population of young adults are now suffering from vision impairment and blindness than in previous generations. It is no wonder diabetes is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide. To take control of diabetes, you should know your latest hemoglobin A1c results—this provides a three-month report card of your blood sugar control. For most people, an A1c level of less than 7 percent is the goal but you should ask your healthcare provider what your target number is. It is also important to see your eye doctor for a diabetic eye evaluation at the time you are diagnosed with diabetes and at least annually thereafter. Dietary and lifestyle changes are the mainstay treatment of diabetes so if you need help, your physician can have you meet with a diabetic educator. Taking a proactive approach to controlling your blood sugars, cholesterol and blood pressure can prevent many diabetes-related health problems. Dr. Brian T. Kim is a retina and cataract expert with Harvard Eye Associates who specializes in treating retinal and macular diseases. Dr. Kim welcomes questions at briankim@harvardeye.com. Find out more by visiting www.harvardeye.com or calling 949.493.5411. Page 7
A NEW YOU
FITNESS SPOTLIGHT I HEART YOGA
FITNESS SPOTLIGHT CROSSFIT NO BOUNDARIES No Boundaries may be in the name but coaches know when to scale workouts, when to push further and when CrossFitters are finished. The ultimate goal here is to show people how to develop themselves. From professional athletes to birth-recovering moms, CrossFit No Boundaries coaches can tailor their WODs (Workouts of the Day) to fit each individual’s needs. Encouragement is at the core of these workouts, whether it is coming from coaches or other drenched-insweat WOD mates. 33208 Paseo Cerveza, Suite A1, San Juan Capistrano 949.229.8049, www.crossfitnoboundaries.com
I Heart Yoga in the Park. Photo: Courtesy
Rain or shine, board or brew, I Heart Yoga meets daily at 10 a.m. It’s an out-in-the-elements class that sees all ages and skill levels “Ommm” together. No membership required, just a commitment to your practice and a suggested $8 donation to keep daily classes running. These teachers, and yogis, love yoga anytime, anywhere. From the harbor on stand-up paddleboards and the beaches of Rosarito, Mexico to the tasting room of Left Coast Brewing Co. they meet. Yes, that’s right. First a bend, then a brew every Sunday at 11:30 a.m. or Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. Lantern Bay Park, 25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point, www.iheartyoga.org
Squash the excuse. Try this out: Schedule time to excercise for one day— even if it is only 10 minutes—then stick to it.
A NEW YOU
Keeping Your Wits About Diet, exercise and lifestyle choices to help you stay sharp at any age By Andrea Papagianis
WEIGHING IN AT JUST 3 POUNDS, THE BRAIN IS THE BODY’S MOST POWERFUL ORGAN. Here’s the brain breakdown. The cerebrum, which takes up a majority of the skull, is involved with memories, thoughts, problem solving, feelings and movements. Next up: the cerebellum is tasked with controlling coordination and balance. Last, but not least, the brain stem connects to the spinal cord and controls the body’s automatic functions such as breathing, digestion, heart rate and blood pressure. It’s the body’s mission control—a central aspect to its wellbeing. Embracing a healthy habit-heavy lifestyle packed with exercise, a nutritious diet and both cognitive and socially-stimulating activities can have a positive impact on a person’s entire body—brain included. At least that’s what some researchers believe. A two-year clinical trial of elderly adults at risk for cognitive impairment
in Finland showed positive signs that a recipe of physical activity, nutrition, social activities, cognitive exercise and heart health management slowed cognitive decline. While some brain conditions, like Alzheimer’s disease, may not be prevented, cured or slowed, there are things that can be done to keep the brain healthy as you age. The Brain Foundation and Alzheimer’s Association have a few recommend actions to help protect and keep your brain running on all cylinders.
Stay physically active.
Make time to exercise. Set your priorities and keep them. Participating in regular exercise can reduce stress, depression and cardiovascular health risk factors. Create your own exercise opportunities—take the stairs, park farther away and schedule in walks.
Take part in mentally stimulating activities.
The brain needs exercise too. Play games like bridge and chess that involve memory and foreshadowing. Turn off the television and opt instead for mind games or a book.
Take up a new hobby such as quilting, photography, learning a new language, computer skills or musical instrument.
Reduce stress and depression.
Anxiety increases your heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to stroke. One of the body’s toughest stresses is depression. Take time to yourself and find time to meditate. Actively relax— tense up then relax muscle groups—and exercise. Get some rest and sleep well.
Consume a healthy diet.
Nourish your brain with a wellbalanced, low-cholesterol, lowsaturated fat diet. Don’t skip out on breakfast. Order the fish. It combines protein and unsaturated fats—both of which are vital to brain development. Keep in mind: Good nutrition is good for the body and also the brain.
Wear a helmet and seatbelt.
Make safety a priority. Put on a helmet when riding a bike, snowboard, motorcycle, skateboard and other modes of transit to prevent brain injury if you fall or get into an accident. Buckle up. Always wear a seatbelt when driving or riding in a car. Treat any head injury seriously.
A NEW YOU
Take Time for You
Life is demanding. Work, school, dinner, games, grocery shopping, laundry: The list seemingly goes on and on. Where is the time for you? You know, the personal time for that long-put-off eye doctor’s visit, the trip to the gym that plays second fiddle or the simple hour of relaxation. Now is the time to focus on you. Make your health and wellness a priority. Align Pilates Center Align Pilates Center is an award-winning pilates and yoga studio nestled in the historical heart of San Juan Capistrano. Align is a fully-equipped studio offering private sessions, group equipment classes as well as yoga and pilates mat classes. APC is proud of its world-renowned training, detailed instruction and excellent customer satisfaction. The guiding principle at APC is that “quality of movement equals quality of life.” Come in and experience the quality today. 26850 Ortega Highway, Suite K, San Juan Capistrano, 949.481.3577, www.alignpilatescenter.com.
City of San Clemente Health happens in the city of San Clemente when you participate in summer recreation and enjoy the health benefits of city classes, camps and events. From toddlers to seniors, there is something for everyone from surfing to swimming, camps to adult leagues, as well as an abundance of amenities from beaches to pools and trails to parks. Select your summer adventure and make health happen in your life by registering online or visiting a center today. 100 N. Calle Seville, 949.361.8264 or 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa, 949.429.8797, www.san-clemente.org/recreation.
C’Siren Day Spa C’Siren is local, family operated day spa. Owner Torri Crider, LHHP and team members—Kakae Culbertson L.E., Gena Celli L.M.T. and Elise Hendrickson L.M.T.—are dedicated to your health, wellness and beauty. We use certified organic seaweed products from Seaflora and natural M’lis products in our skincare, therapeutic body treatments, detoxifying programs and natural supplements. Call us for more information about our facials, massages,
detoxifying and contouring body wraps, waxing and infrared sauna. 312 Avenida De La Estrella, San Clemente, 949.498.7700, www.csirendayspa.com.
Desa Prana Pilates & Barre
an elite group of periodontists—only 25 percent nationwide—who offer Periolase as an alternative to traditional osseous surgery. 1001 Avenida Pico,Suite K, San Clemente 949.361.4867(GUMS), www.moranperio.com.
best. Call us today about our complimentary age management consultation. 1031 Avenida Pico, Suite 103, San Clemente, 949.429.1919, www.hybridmdoc.com.
Melrose in the OC
Fitness 19 In ancient Sanskrit, Desa means place or space; Prana means vital energy, life force, breath. Using different modalities, Desa Prana offers a customized approach to wellbeing that can be tailored to any age or fitness level. Desa Prana offers state-of-the-art pilates equipment for reformer and tower sessions, TRX, barre and an exciting yoga program that includes classes and workshops in restorative, power, partner and Ariel yoga. 34700 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 205-208, Capistrano Beach, 949.443.1700, www.desaprana.com
Diana Craft D.D.S. At Dr. Craft’s dental office, we focus on you. Dr. Craft designs treatment plans based on your individual dental needs and aesthetic desires. We provide comprehensive care for the whole family from cleanings and extractions, to tooth colored fillings and porcelain crowns. Dr. Craft’s gentle manner will put you at ease, so call us today to get started on the road to a beautiful, healthy smile. 1161 Puerta Del Sol, Suite 100, San Clemente, 949.218.0433, www.dianacraftdental.com.
Dr. Alice P. Moran
At Fitness 19 we have more than 10 years of experience serving and motivating the beautiful San Clemente area. Our clean, well-maintained facility was completely remodeled less than a year ago. In addition, we have month-to-month memberships starting at just $9 per month, so there is easily no one in the area who can beat our prices. We would like to invite you down to our state-of-the-art facility and let one of our amazing staff members show you around your new fitness center. 93 Via Pico Plaza, San Clemente, 949.369.1999, www.fitness19.com.
Harvard Eye Associates
Harvard Eye Associates has been proudly serving Orange County for more than 40 years, bringing patients advanced treatments and procedures in general, medical, and surgical eye care. Our services also include facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, BOTOX® Cosmetic, dermal fillers, laser skin rejuvenation and a Hearing Aid Center. 24401 Calle de la Louisa, Suite 300, Laguna Hills; 665 Camino de los Mares, Suite 102, San Clemente, 949.951.2020, www.harvardeye.com.
Hybrid MD
Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD, is a board-certified periodontist who provides comprehensive, leading-edge periodontal care to preserve smiles. Dr. Moran’s capabilities include dental-implant surgery, immediate implant placement including “all on four” or “teeth in a day,” aesthetic-gum enhancement, pinhole gum rejuvenation and treatment of gum disease. She belongs to
At Hybrid MD, we always focus on healthy living and well-being. Dr. Colin Jairam is one of a few age management physicians in the area who focuses on hormone optimization. So whether you need a physical or are interested in getting labs checked, Hybrid MD is committed to keeping you functioning at your
Check us out and shop Melrose in the OC where items are always new, trends are hot and prices are cool. Melrose in the OC attracts many customers time and time again because of its great selection of women’s and girl’s fashion, jewelry, notable customer service and prices for today’s economy. 144 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.0561, www.melroseintheoc.com.
O Dental - Dr Carla Bryan & Dr Anmar Obaidi We’ve been providing dentistry of the highest quality in San Clemente for nearly 30 years. Please join Dr. Bryan and the team in welcoming Dr. Obaidi to our practice. With more than 45 years combined experience, our doctors look forward to taking care of all of your dental needs. We are now accepting new patients. We welcome everyone including families, nervous patients, seniors and veterans.657 Camino De Los Mares, Suite 138, San Clemente, 949.487.6780.
OC Pharmacy
Like family treats family, OC Pharmacy ensures you receive the highest quality medications, over-the-counter drugs, compounding solutions, hormone replacement therapy, vaccinations and immunizations. Our pharmacists are best known for their expertise in compounding—the art and science of preparing, mixing, assembling and packaging of individualized medications. For your specialized medications, we use pure-ingredient chemicals and raw materials to blend a customized drug exclusively prescribed for your body by your physician. 31654 Rancho Viejo Road, Suite N, San Juan Capistrano, 949.429.5326, www.ocpharmacy.net. Page 11
A NEW YOU Sea View Pharmacy
Orange County Physicians’ Hearing Services Our vision is to provide superior quality, personal and compassionate hearing care for patients that will improve their overall hearing and health. Based upon individual needs, we provide a comprehensive array of services related to prevention, evaluation and rehabilitation of hearing impairment for all ages. Our friendly staff and doctors of audiology provide the best hearing care services, hearing loss treatment and hearing aids. Five locations to serve you: Mission Viejo, Laguna Hills, San Clemente, Laguna Beach and Irvine. 949.276.4040, www.physicianshearingservices.com.
Orange County Plastic Surgery Orange County Plastic Surgery
By offering a caring and comfortable environment, and combining it with the very latest advances in cosmetic surgery of the face and body, we believe we have created one of the finest cosmetic surgery facilities in all of Southern California. Services include facial rejuvenation utilizing the latest mid-face and endoscopic brow lifting techniques, microfat grafting and lasers, as well as eyelid and nasal surgery. 4501 Birch Street, Newport Beach, 949.888.9700, www.orangecountyplasticsurgery.com.
Paul Reischl, DDS
This year, we celebrate 28 years in San Clemente. With our dental work experience we provide each and every patient with quality preventive, restorative and cosmetic dental treatments. Our staff has worked together for many years to ensure you a positive and friendly atmosphere that will make you feel welcome when you enter our doors. We strive to provide the best dental care in the most gentle and efficient way possible. 657 Camino De Los Mares, Suite 245, San Clemente, 949.492.0166, www.reischldentistry.com. Page 12
Sea View Pharmacy is an independent, family-owned, full-service, retail pharmacy located in San Clemente. Here at Sea View, we provide accredited pharmaceutical compounding for the personal health needs of patients and their pets. Pharmacists are also clinically trained to administer a variety of immunizations and we offer a wide range of medical equipment products. Our customer service is fast, friendly and here to meet your individual health needs. We deliver. 665 Camino De Los Mares, Suite #101, San Clemente, 949.496.0123, www.seaviewpharmacy.com
Shine Bodyworks
In developing Shine Bodyworks services and offerings, we have created a unique combination of traditional American and Eastern inspired massage modalities, breakthrough scientific therapies and modern healing devices. Suzanne and Alfredo provide a welcoming atmosphere and work with you to address your issues. They educate you about how Shine’s unique philosophies, treatments and technologies work together to achieve overall balance and holistic health. Call or visit our website to learn more. 380 Camino De Estrella, San Clemente, 949.916.1419, www.shinebodyworks.com.
West Dermatology
In 2002, West Dermatology merged with Las Vegas Skin & Cancer Clinics to create a network serving millions in Arizona, California and Nevada. Our team members integrate cutting-edge, evidence-based medical science with our company mission to provide patients with quality healthcare in a professional, compassionate environment. West Dermatology is an established, elite company with innovative, compassionate providers. Your overall health and wellness is our complete goal and your skin is our primary focus. 1300 Avenida Vista Hermosa, Suite 240, San Clemente, 949.489.4290; 22032 El Paseo, Suite 220, Rancho Santa Margarita, 949.888.5448, www.westdermatology.com.
Whole Healing: Treating the Mind, Body and Spirit Ancient medicinal techniques are proven to cure illness, promote overall well-being By Mia Chou L.Ac, Pacific Acupuncture Center
Over the past 3,000 years, traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture has evolved into a complete healing system that includes the diagnosis and treatment of a wide variety of conditions. With its amazing benefits for the mind, body and spirit, acupuncture has becoming popular worldwide. Did you know that acupuncture is more than just needles? Combined with ancient Chinese medicine, newly-developed science and various techniques, acupuncture can provide the most effective treatments for arthritis, chronic fatigue, migraines, sleep troubles and more. It also promotes and overall well being. Good health comes from achieving balance and proper flow of qi, or energy. It animates the body and protects us from illness, pain and even disease. This balance can be reached through acupuncture treatments—a healing method that consists of needling selected meridians points with pin-like needles. This technique—coupled with an overall health investigation that gets to the root of a patient’s issues and takes calculations of factors such as lifestyle, emotions and family history—has many centuries’ worth of proven success. That is why acupuncture is recognized by the National Institute of Health and World Health Organization for variety of conditions such as anxiety, pain, immunity and fertility, among others. Other ancient and time-honored, Chinese medical practices can also be invoked to ensure acupuncture treatments have the utmost impact. Depending on the individual’s condition, the massage technique Tui-Na can be added to acupuncture in order to relieve muscle pain,
tension and inflammation. Gua-Sha, a skin scraping treatment that may produce slight bruising, is another ancient form used. In this method, practitioners use a specialized tool to gently scrape the skin over a problem area to increase blood flow and release muscle tension, tightness and constriction. A further therapy that stimulates blood flow and balances qi is cupping. With cupping, a vacuum is created over the area being treated using heat. I think of it as a reverse, deep tissue as your muscle is pulled into the cup by suction. The technique is great for muscle tension, pain and the common cold. Herbal remedies are also recommended for different conditions. There are more than 3,000 herbs that can be used for medical purposes. To create the most effective healing formula, herbs with different quantities are customized for diverse purposes and individual needs. Herbs have proven effective in fighting bacteria and viruses, helping injuries recover faster, healing chronic illness, promoting blood circulation, as well as strengthening and regulating the body for recovery. Raised in a traditional Chinese medicine environment, Mia Chou L.Ac, of Pacific Acupuncture Center, realized her calling at a young age. Her passion for ancient medicine, compassion for patients and dedication to their healing has defined not only her career but also who she is. Learn more by visiting www.pacificacupuncture.com or calling 949.489.1911.
A NEW YOU
Health, Happiness Start at Home
Five steps toward becoming a more mindful family By Susan Parmelee, Western Youth Services
IT IS IMPORTANT TO SLOW DOWN AND TAKE TIME TO ENJOY THE SPECIAL RELATIONSHIPS IN YOUR LIFE. Small, meaningful changes can greatly benefit the mental and physical health of all members in your family. Here are a few ideas to help your family relieve stress, relax and reconnect with one another.
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Enjoy spontaneous moments.
Some of my family’s best memories happened by accident. Slow down and take advantage of happenstance. From toddlers to teens, your kids often have spur-of-the-moment ideas and it is worth following their lead. An hour watching construction equipment with your 3-year-old or letting dinner with your teen be a pile of nachos, can be outings that you will all treasure.
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Start and maintain traditions.
Begin a monthly neighborhood outdoor game night, teach the kids to make Sunday pancake breakfast or host full-moon beach barbecues with family and friends. Keeping up with the traditions can be important to your family and these customs
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are often handed down to the next generation.
Take personal time.
Some days we just need to slow down. Give yourself, and your family members permission to take a break if you or they seem overwhelmed. Know when to stop a heated conversation or argument. Value your relationships and each other’s health.
Schedule screen-free time.
Challenge the family to be totally unplugged for a few hours or while on an entire vacation. We all need time to disconnect from the
FITNESS SPOTLIGHT FOUNDATION FITNESS
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Explore new things.
Pick one day a month when you try a new ethnic cuisine, cook together with your family, visit a new restaurant, try a family yoga class, seek out a new hiking trail, sign up for art lessons, or maybe even learn how to meditate. Novelty engages new parts of our neural circuitry and encourages the firing of endorphins
that create happier moods. Finally, none of these are imperatives. Just slow down and give it a try. You, and your family, will be thankful for it. Susan Parmelee is a social worker who works at San Clemente High School in the Wellness & Prevention Center and at Western Youth Services. She is a regular contributor to the San Clemente Times and sends out weekly wellness and prevention emails. To subscribe, send an email “subscribe” in the subject line to tritons41@gmail.com.
“Keep your fitness routine fun! We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.”
Remember that feeling of pure elation in your school day when pencils went down, lessons paused and recess was in full session? Well, it isn’t lost. At Foundation Fitness, the days of mini basketball, hula hoop relays and freeze tag are in full swing with Adult PE classes. “It’s the raddest thing in the world to watch people revert back to childhood,” said owner and founder Ryan Steinhoff. It’s self-driven, interval training blended with the fun of days gone by. A community fitness class like no other. 232 Avenida Fabricante, Suite 106, San Clemente 949.478.9264, www.foundationfitsc.com
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stressors in our lives. As adults, we often fantasize about the ability to completely escape from our phone and email. Youth often do not know how healthy it can be to disconnect from outside stimuli and the stress of online communications.
Foundation Fitness. Photo: Courtesy
—Ryan Steinhoff, Foundation Fitness