marin living january/february 2022

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TA LI T Y I S I V

RISING TO THE PROMISE OF A NEW YEAR

© Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. All rights reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark. Operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. Real estate agents affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc., are independent contractor sales associates and are not employees of Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Happy New Year!

Thank you to my clients, colleagues, family and friends.

Nick Svenson nick@marinsfhomes.com www.MarinSFhomes.com 415.505.7674 | DRE #01918616

See You at the Symphony

SECOND CENTURY PARTNER

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SEASON PARTNERS

OFFICIAL AIRLINE

JAN 13–15 Eschenbach Conducts Beethoven & Brahms

JAN 16 An Evening with Itzhak Perlman

JAN 20–22 MTT: Gautier Capuçon Plays Shostakovich

JAN 27–29 MTT: Yuja Wang & Mahler 1

FEB 5 Lunar New Year: Year of the Tiger

sfsymphony.org

A Legacy of Building Relationships for Generations

BowmanRealEstateGroup.com @THEBOWMANGROUP

MARIN MATTERS

Providing Marin families more of what they want

“Jennifer and Elliott expertly guided me with their cool demeanor, local expertise and sold relationships. We looked at dozens of homes, bid on and lost more than a few and ultimately won the house I was meant to be in all along. They got the deal done and now my house in the redwoods is my home.”

- Lael S Managing Director - LPSS Digital Marketing

The value of our business is measured in the quality of the relationships we build.

BOWMAN REAL ESTATE GROUP | 415.755.1040 Team@BowmanRealEstateGroup.com DRE# 01933147

The Park Ward Village and Victoria Ward Park

THIS IS NOT INTENDED TO BE AN OFFERING OR SOLICITATION OF SALE IN ANY JURISDICTION WHERE THE PROJECT IS NOT REGISTERED IN ACCORDANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAW OR WHERE SUCH OFFERING OR SOLICITATION WOULD OTHERWISE BE PROHIBITED BY LAW. WARD VILLAGE, A MASTER PLANNED DEVELOPMENT IN HONOLULU, HAWAII, IS STILL BEING CONSTRUCTED. ANY VISUAL REPRESENTATIONS OF WARD VILLAGE OR THE CONDOMINIUM PROJECTS THEREIN, INCLUDING THEIR LOCATION, UNITS, COMMON ELEMENTS AND AMENITIES, MAY NOT ACCURATELY PORTRAY THE MASTER PLANNED DEVELOPMENT OR ITS CONDOMINIUM PROJECTS. ALL VISUAL DEPICTIONS AND DESCRIPTIONS IN THIS ADVERTISEMENT ARE FOR ILLUSTRATIVE PURPOSES ONLY. THE DEVELOPER MAKES NO GUARANTEE, REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY WHATSOEVER THAT THE DEVELOPMENTS, FACILITIES OR IMPROVEMENTS OR FURNISHINGS AND APPLIANCES DEPICTED WILL ULTIMATELY APPEAR AS SHOWN OR EVEN BE INCLUDED AS A PART OF WARD VILLAGE OR ANY CONDOMINIUM PROJECT THEREIN. WARD VILLAGE PROPERTIES, LLC, RB-21701. COPYRIGHT ©2020. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.

WARNING: THE CALIFORNIA BOARD OF REAL ESTATE HAS NOT INSPECTED, EXAMINED OR QUALIFIED THIS OFFERING.

The Good Life at The Park Find a comfortable spot to enjoy the trade winds and let your mind wander as you relax under a monkeypod tree. Because when you live at The Park Ward Village in Honolulu, you live at the center of it all, and you can spend more time doing what you love.

S T U D I O, O N E, T WO A N D T H R EE B ED RO O M S AVA I L A B L E INQUIRE WELCOMETOTHEPARKWV.COM | 808 400 8983 Offered by Ward Village Properties, LLC RB-21701

Design Focused Real Estate 2021 was a banner year for Outpost founders Radhi Ahern & Scott Kalmbach reaching 1 BILLION in lifetime sales. With the accelerated growth of the company, Outpost hired a full time listing designer and a marketing strategist | social media maven to help present the best designed homes to the market. In 2021 Outpost’s property transformations and signature style resulted in multiple record breaking price per square foot sales. We are also thrilled to have added partner agents Amanda Mullholland, Tracey Broadman and Joaquin Garcia to the team. The collective expertise of these seasoned professionals brings us further depth of knowledge, extends our networks and provides broader outreach to uncover off-market opportunities for our clients.

#2

+250M

TE A M IN MA RI N 2021

TOTA L SA L E S 20 2 1

OUTPOSTREALESTATE .COM/PORTFOLIO DRE 01 41147 1

Jessica Cline

Casey Gillespie

CEO jessica@marinlivingmagazine.com 707.302.0850

Creative Director casey@marinlivingmagazine.com

Dina Grant

Daniel Jewett

Advertising Director dina@marinlivingmagazine.com 707.238.2030

Executive Editor dan@marinlivingmagazine.com

ADVERTISING

EDITORIAL

Wine Country Advertising Consultant Chet Klingensmith chet@marinlivingmagazine.com 707.216.1780 Hawaii Region Advertising Consultant Meredith Low meredith@marinlivingmagazine.com 808.388.2644 Advertising Consultant Kim McGinnis kim@marinlivingmagazine.com 415.640.4504 Advertising Consultant Courtney Roberts courtney@marinlivingmagazine.com 415.297.4507

Associate Editor Molly O’Brien Editorial Assistant Sydney Segal Contributing Designers Sarah Goldschadt, Madeleine Hannes, Allan Nacapuy, David Sebo Contributing Writers Sarah Weinberg Gold, Joseph Knelman, Zack Ruskin, Laura Schooling Contributing Photographer Reny Huelskamp, Michael Shainblum

Client Services Manager Casey Hatfield-Chiotti chatfield@marinlivingmagazine.com 707.400.5661

Subscriptions Customer Service 818.287.2940 mlmcs@magserv.com To subscribe, manage your subscription or change your address: marinlivingmagazine.com/subscriptions

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Mailing Address Marin Living PO Box 2104 Mill Valley, CA 94941 Office phone: 707.302.0850

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Editorial or Press Inquiries casey@marinlivingmagazine.com, dan@marinlivingmagazine.com

Volume 3, Issue 1. Marin Living® magazine is published in Marin County by Five19Publishing, Inc., Mill Valley, CA 94941. All rights reserved. ©2021 Five19Publishing, Inc. Marin Living® is a registered trademark of Five19Publishing, Inc. Reproduction of Marin Living is prohibited without the expressed, written consent of Five19Publishing, Inc. Unsolicited materials cannot be returned. Marin Living is mailed 10 times a year to homes and businesses in Marin County and San Francisco.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Marin Living magazine, PO Box 16895, North Hollywood, CA 91615-6895.

www.marinlivingmagazine.com

ART IS EVERYTHING.

Now showing: Joel Amit Flying Love Metal Wall Sculpture 40 x 40 inches

Three San Francisco locations: 239 Grant Avenue 950 Mason Street (The Fairmont Hotel) 315 Grant Avenue (coming soon) 415.323.4080, www.gefenfineart.com

table of contents. january/february 2022

spotlight marin.

20 news.

The College of Marin is offering free admission; the speed limit is changing for bikes on the Golden Gate Bridge; and the latest from Tahoe.

28 local splurges.

Clean beauty and grooming products for the win.

30

The white sharks are back in coastal waters and we get up close and personal.

78 new digs.

36 eat & drink.

Meet the Marinites behind a new beverage brand that draws on the medicinal power of plants.

30 beauty.

38 local getaways.

32 relationships.

42 take note.

Gua sha is a new trend, but healers have been practicing the technique in China for centuries.

Expert advice on how to get back out into the dating world.

12 january/february 2022 marin living.

going places.

74 land & sea.

A new year calls for an annual reset, and what better place to do that than in Napa Valley?

Grab your Sorting Hat — Harry Potter is returning to San Francisco.

Meet the couple who left Marin during the pandemic for a coffee farm they now call their own.

80 voyager.

If you haven’t booked your 2022 wellness getaway yet, here are some ideas.

88 drawn together.

The life-changing technology at Novato’s OpenCures.

from the team.

16 from the ceo.

18 from the creative director.

From left: Courtesy of SHA Wellness Clinic; courtesy of Wildling; courtesy o f Kona Earth

78

80

LET’S CREATE SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL TOGETHER Approachable Living by Design A nimble boutique real estate firm that specializes in navigating the complexities of buying and selling at a competitive price.

Jessica Canty Broker, MLIS, JD License #01049954 415.408.1879 jesscanty@thecantygroup.com

Since 1989 staging • design • construction • planning • permitting • property management • restoration • legal compliance

features.

44

The Wild New World of CBD

Everyone is talking about cannabidiol — but are all brands created equally?

48

One More Plant

When it comes to the future of cannabis tourism, Sonoma Hills Farm is leading the way.

52

Wellness Warriors

On the Cover A foggy winter sunrise in Marin County.

Photograph by Michael Shainblum

14 january/february 2022 marin living.

Courtesy of Sonoma Hills Farm

Prepare to be inspired by three of Marin’s leading health-centric entrepreneurs.

Ample.

Textured.

Profound.

A pure revelation of our Spring Mountain Estate.

www.newtonvineyard.com

from the ceo.

1. Lead by e xample 2. Manifest happiness naturally 3. See the g oodness around me 4. Kindness even when under pressure 5. Accept li fe as it is in the moment

I’M OPTIMISTIC ABOUT 2022. My mind whirls between how to keep my team safe in this pandemic and how to maximize growth — is it possible to do both effectively? The short answer is yes. I do know that working from home is very different than going to the office, and I much prefer the former. That said, I miss the daily random interactions between colleagues and laughing with each other in person; so, there are upsides of heading back to an office. But when I think beyond the proverbial water cooler chats, is it worth it? I don’t think so.

We’ve built our company with the notion that every opinion matters. Zoom meetings allow us to be efficient with our time and disciplined with our objectives. We also get to travel as much as we want, which I love. Last month a teammate joined our company meeting from Mexico in her swimsuit and I thought, “This is exactly what we set out to build,” as I beamed with pride. Show up with a kid on your lap, cat traipsing across your keyboard or from a different country? Yes, please. More and more of our life is showing up in our work and not the other way around. Our company is built on this very principle.

Our pages are full of life happening around us and how could we do that passionately and authentically while chained to a desk in an office? We don’t want to waste a single one of life’s precious moments, and we won’t with our approach. So we 16 january/february 2022 marin living.

gather for lunches, dinners, cocktails and walks around Marin to find out what our colleagues did over the weekend, which allows us space to connect and hear about each other’s real lives. Our magazine, brand studio and clients benefit from a happy team who is fresh with ideas and world experience.

Setting intentions is a mindset and we have one of deep optimism as five19publishing grows. We’ve come a long way in our journey and are over the moon thinking about our success so far. Our team is stronger than ever and 2022 looks very bright. Inspiration is all around us. Cheers to a new year and endless life experiences.

Jessica Cline, CEO and Co-Founder

Portrait by Becca Teal Batista; www.stock.adobe.com/Renee

Life in 2022

The McCarthy + Moe Group is so thankful to have helped over 65 Buyers and Sellers reach their real estate goals in 2021. Our clients benefited from our expertise in marketing, making intelligent pricing decisions, and efficiently managing the details of every transaction. The common thread is our relentless pursuit to deliver the best possible results for our clients.

We love what we do and are proud to be “Refreshingly Different!” Thank you for your friendships, referrals, and for becoming Clients for Life! If you are considering a move in 2022 and would like our expertise, call us today to start planning!

Liz McCarthy + Shenna Moe 415.250.4929 McCarthyMoe.com Team@McCarthyMoe.com COMPASS | Greenbrae DRE 01421997

from the creative director.

Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs

WELCOME TO OUR FIRST ISSUE OF 2022! Like most people at this time of year, we are turning our attention toward all things wellness, but we are taking it one step further and calling this our Vitality Issue. Vitality is the state of being strong and active — and I couldn’t think of a word that better describes Marin.

In this issue, we speak to three local entrepreneurs whose businesses fall into the wellness category. These people are so passionate about what they do that you can’t help but get excited as well. Speaking of exciting things, we get a behindthe-scenes look at something truly innovative that is brewing in Sonoma — cannabis tourism. And this is not the cannabis culture of days gone by; this is five-star luxury experiences in the making. And of course, we can’t talk about vitality without mentioning CBD, a segment of the industry developing so quickly that it is hard to keep up with. If you haven’t explored the world of CBD yet, this is an excellent introduction.

I am particularly excited about our feature with Kevin Perrott and his groundbreaking company, OpenCures. As someone who lives and breathes all things wellness, I think his new take on preventative medicine is fascinating (sign me up!).

And what would the new year be without a handful of tempting wellness resorts? There are plenty to choose from, so you will 18 january/february 2022 marin living.

undoubtedly find the right destination on our list and a few reasons to indulge in some serious self-care throughout the year. And uber-luxe spas in Napa — yep, we’ve rounded those up for you as well. I have a little confession: for the 18 months we were holed up at home during Covid all I could think about was going to a spa, sipping tea by a fireplace in a plush robe and getting away from it all. I have a feeling I am not the only one. So if you need to unplug and indulge in some serious R&R, you won’t want to miss our picks of where to go in Wine Country right now.

We hope that you enjoy this issue and find some time to relax and reset before the madness of 2022 sets in. And we are looking forward to more openings, more parties and getting to know more of you over the next 12 months.

Casey Gillespie Creative Director and Co-Founder

Portrait by Becca Teal Batista; courtesy of Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs

Relax and Reset

SAN FRANCISCO BOTANICAL GARDEN

In Bloom Mid-January through March

Open Daily in Golden Gate Park

sfbg.org @sfbotanicalgarden for the latest bloom updates!

Image: Magnolia campbellii

“We are gearing up for ski season and look forward to welcoming visitors to the spectacular winter months ahead.”

The Lake Tahoe–area ski season is upon us.

20 january/february 2022 marin living.

— ANDY CHAPMAN, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF THE INCLINE VILLAGE CRYSTAL BAY VISITORS BUREAU

Courtesy of North Tahoe Tourism

spotlight marin.

L i v e y o ur l uxur y.

THE NEW YEAR BRINGS NEW BEGINNINGS IN 2022 Th e n e w y e a r b r i n g s n e w p e r sp e c t iv e a nd a ppre c ia t ion for t he pla c e s w e c a ll home .

We k n o w we l l t h a t l i v i n g h e re i n Mar in, t he re is a lot t o a ppre c ia t e a nd be t ha nkful for.

En ge l & V ö l k e r s Ma r i n Co u n t y c o n tinue s t o se t t he ba r in pre mium re a l e st a t e se r v ic e , h e lp in g ou r c l i e n t s d i s c o v e r t h e i r n e w home a nd t he ne w life t ha t a w a it s. E v e r y c ommunit y is d iffe ren t , a n d e v e r y p e r s o n d i s t i n c t . F rom st a r t e r home s t o dre a m home s a nd e v e n y a c ht s ( y es , w e c a n h elp wi t h t h o se , t o o ), we h e l p you ma ke luxur y pe r sona lly y our s by disc ov e r ing w ha t i t tr u ly m e a n s t o y o u . Wh e t h e r b u ying or se lling a home , E nge l & V ölke r s e nsure s a n e x p e r i e nc e of t he highe st c a libe r.

L e t u s h e l p y o u e x per ien ce lu xu r iou s n ew begin n in gs.

L e a r n m o re a t

/ e vma rinc o u n ty

m a r i n c o u n t y. e v re a l e s tate.co m

Mill Valley

206 East Blithedale Avenue +1 415 634-5577

Kentfield

636 College Avenue +1 415 847-4904

Sausalito

539 Bridgeway +1 415 887-9925

Fairfax

44 Bolinas Road +1 415 870-4411

San Anselmo

8509 Sir Francis Drake Blvd +1 415 675-1263

©2021 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.

news.

By Molly O’Brien

SnowFest (www.tahoesnowfest.org) returns February 25 to March 6, with dozens of events taking place on the north shore to celebrate all things winter. On March 6, The Great Ski Race (www.thegreatskirace.com) brings racers together and raises funds for the Tahoe Nordic Search & Rescue Team. To extend the season, Tahoe Donner Cross Country (www.tahoedonner.com) has installed snowmaking machines for the first time to ensure a high-quality snow season. Off the mountain, check out the Winter Speaker Series (www.alpenglowsports.com) online and at Olympic Valley Lodge at Palisades Tahoe, showcasing the outdoor industry’s biggest names, like Sierra-based snowboarder Nick Russell and seasoned adventurer Hilaree Nelson. All winter long, The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe (www.ritzcarlton.com) hosts après specials, including the Whiskey & Waffles Cabin and Champagne & Caviar Bar. In South Tahoe, Heavenly Mountain Resort and Kirkwood Mountain Resort welcome guests for a new ski season, but Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort’s (www.sierraattahoe.com) 75th season is slightly delayed from the aftermath of the Caldor Fire; the exact opening date is TBD. Snowshoe to the Champagne Chalet at Edgewood Tahoe Resort (www.edgewoodtahoe.com) and enjoy Veuve Clicquot at a charming, retro-inspired bar with outdoor seating. And visitors don’t have to miss out on wellness practices while on vacation; the Bliss Experiences Lake Tahoe (www.blisstahoe.com) offers yoga, retreats and more.

Big Money for Aging Research The Buck Institute for Research on Aging (www.buckinstitute.org) has recently been awarded three grants and partnered with the Astera Institute. The two institutions are collaborating on the Rejuvenome Project — a seven-year, $70 million study — focusing on techniques to slow the aging process. The Buck was also granted $14 million from NIH to research cellular senescence and Alzheimer’s disease — a new approach to studying dementia. “This project is a quintessential example of the Buck’s strength,” says Buck President and CEO Eric Verdin, M.D. A second $12.7 million grant from NIH gives Buck access to SenNet, a Cellular Senescence Network, for a collaborative, extensive national tissue and cell mapping project.

22 january/february 2022 marin living.

Courtesy of North Tahoe Tourism; courtesy of the Buck Institute

What’s New in Tahoe

After more than 40 years of service, Justice Peter J. Siggins retires from the bench and starts his own consulting business.

Justice Peter J. Siggins officially announces his retirement from the bench and enthusiastically embraces the next chapter of his legal career. Justice Siggins has been a thought leader throughout his career, developing and implementing public and criminal justice policy at the highest level of state government, and working to improve and strengthen California courts. Justice Siggins is known and respected throughout the legal establishment for his long record of public service to the legal and judicial communities.

“I am excited to continue my work in public service as a consultant with my own practice,” says the San Francisco native. “I am offering consulting services in appellate litigation; special master and referee services; and the mediation of disputes involving public entities.”

With this vast array of experience in government and legal settings, Justice Siggins is eager to focus his attention on the aspect of law that he is most passionate about. “I will use my expertise to help facilitate the resolution of disputes that have a bearing on public policy implementation, and the accountable and responsible workings of public institutions.”

To learn more about Justice Peter J. Siggins (Ret.) and the services he is offering visit him at www.sigginsinformedresolutions.com. To contact him directly email or phone at peter@sigginsinformedresolutions.com or 415.721.7198.

news.

Free Ride

Music and Vintage Style The arts scene is heating up in San Francisco in the new year! The 2022 Noise Pop Festival (www.noisepopfest.com) is back and is set to transform the Bay Area into a sprawling festival of music, art shows, film screenings and other highlights February 21 to 27 at venues across the city. Attendees can enjoy homegrown Bay Area acts like Guapdad 4000 and the Papercuts in addition to dozens of other unique performances. “This year’s festival is all about going back to our roots,” says Noise Pop Industries president Stacy Horne.

At the historic Regency Ballroom, the 21st annual Edwardian Ball (www.edwardianball.com) is taking place February 4 and 5 (tickets $125 to $145). The ball celebrates music, theater, circus, fine art, fashion and dance and hosts an elaborate Vendor Bazaar with 50-plus artisans offering one-of-a-kind wares.

Bikers Slow Your Roll Beginning January 1, the thousands of cyclists who cross the Golden Gate Bridge daily must be mindful of their speed, adhering to a 15-mph speed limit or risking a hefty fine of $238 to $490. The Marin County Bicycle Coalition (www.marinbike.org) supports these regulations, noting this speed limit is in line with existing speed limits on other Bay Area trails.

24 january/february 2022 marin living.

Top: Marco Sanchez; bottom: Emily Woolerton

The Edwardian Ball’s costumed guests

Free isn’t too good to be true, neither on the Marin Transit System (www. marintransit.org) nor at the College of Marin (www1.marin.edu). The college will cover up to 18 units of classes for credit and noncredit students during the spring semester, with a tuition waiver open to those who register through the new Clear Path program.

On the roadway, adults 65-plus and people with disabilities can ride for free via Marin Transit’s local fixed-route services countywide through March. Riders should note that demand response services (Paratransit, Catch-A-Ride, Dial-ARide, and Connect) and the Muir Woods Shuttle will be exempt from free fare offerings. “This is a bold, equity-driven plan to rebuild ridership and deliver results to people who most need financial relief,” says Nancy Whelan, Marin Transit ‘s general manager.

10 Kite Hill Lane, Mill Valley — Sold for $4.9 Million

To our wonderful clients, friends, neighbors and colleagues

THANK YOU for a truly outstanding 2021. At The Nelson Group, we believe our success is our client’s success. Best wishes for a happy, healthy and prosperous new year.

$33 Million+ SOLD in Marin County in 2021 Caroline Nelson

Chris Nelson

415.672.0849

415.515.3587

DRE 01405267

DRE 01438673

THENELSONGROUPMARIN.COM

news.

Marin Water is instituting penalties for excessive residential water use.

Water Wasters Beware

Crime Prevention Partnership Prosecutors in the Bay Area have teamed up to create an alliance with law enforcement and state agencies to combat the recent increase in organized retail theft. Agencies will share information through data collection, crime analytics and pooled investigative tools. In November, a mob of 40 suspected thieves shattered the windows of Larkspur’s RealReal outpost, resulting in $250,000 in damages and lost goods. “The alliance represents an active, collaborative approach to tackling the problem of organized retail crime head-on,” says California Attorney General Rob Bonta. “The district attorneys and law enforcement agencies that have partnered together are ready to use our joint resources to prevent organized retail theft, keep consumers and business owners safe and hold the individuals involved in these crime syndicates accountable.”

26 january/february 2022 marin living.

www.stock.adobe.com/Chepko Danil

Everyone’s in the same predicament this winter, with lower than normal reservoir levels countywide. Now, Marinites must conserve water or pay the price — literally. New restrictions prohibit excessive use of water and limit irrigation to spot watering by hand. A household of four is kept to 65 gallons per person per day; otherwise residents face penalties from $5 to $15 for every 748 gallons used. Learn more on the Marin Water website (www.marinwater.org/waterrules).

¤

£ £

· ·

Å £

¥ · · Á ¥ ·

local splurges.

Winter Reset A new year calls for a seasonal revamp and where better to start than with wellness-inspired skin care?

By Casey Gillespie

2

1

3 4

5

2. This 3-in-1 grooming product is made for men who prefer no-fuss grooming. He can use Anato’s all-natural, nontoxic Woodlands “Pour Homme” All Utility as a quick-dry beard oil, aftershave and moisturizer.

Nature lovers will adore the cedarmeets-spruce scent.

Available at FillGood (1579A Solano Avenue, Berkeley) and www.anatolife.com, $37

28 january/february 2022 marin living.

3. We love CBD skin care and Prima’s brand new Beyond Body Oil is a new year must-have.

Your skin will drink in this super-hydrating formula, which also contains magnesium — perfect for soothing achy muscles and ensuring a good night’s sleep. Available at Pharmaca (230 East Blithedale Avenue, Mill Valley), Whole Foods, Sephora and www.prima.co, $56

4. Cooler weather calls for a super-rich moisturizer and M-61’s newly released Hydraboost Rich Cream hits the spot.

Packed with vitamins E and B5, hyaluronic acid, aloe and red marine seaweed, it will leave the skin deliciously hydrated and protected from the winter elements.

Available at Bluemercury (2060 Chestnut Street, San Francisco) and www.m61labs. com, $84

5. Earth Tu Face is a favorite among nontoxic beauty lovers, and its Face Serum, made with soothing blue chamomile and nourishing carrot seed, is a cult classic.

The antioxidant-rich formula is antiblemish, antiaging and suitable for all skin (especially sensitive types). Available at Erica Tanov (Marin Country Mart) and www.earthtuface. com, $62

Etta + Billie photo by Maria del Rio; other photos courtesy of the brands

1. Love body scrubs but hate the mess in the shower?

Then Etta + Billie’s scrub bars are the answer (we like it in the Grapefruit Cardamom scent). A delicious combination of Pacific Ocean sea salt, organic cocoa butter and shea butter, it is exfoliating and moisturizing at the same time. Win! Available at Botanicalife (545 Magnolia Avenue) and www. ettaandbillie.com, $14

4

PAYA M G H A F O O R I

135 S RIDGEWOOD ROAD KENTFIELD, CA 94904 “ After working on this Kentfield estate and two other properties, we are convinced that Payam

Record Breaking Sale

is the only realtor we’ll ever need. Payam’s knowledge, professionalism and terrific instincts have consistently guided us through to excellent outcomes. Payam Ghafoori is the perfect

Sold at $16,000,000 6 Bed | 7.5 Bath | 10,120 Sq Ft

balance between tough and charming. We’ve found that he keeps his client’s best interests in laser-focus and you can always trust that he is on top of every detail, big and small, which brings great peace of mind in any real estate transaction. If you are buying or selling a home, do yourselves a favor and hire Payam Ghafoori!!”

Client’s Testimonial

Payam Ghafoori 415.577.5252 payam@compass.com DRE 01935373 payamghafoori.com @payam_ghafoori Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws.

License Number [license number to be inserted by region]. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.

Face Time

In China, gua sha has been practiced for centuries as a way to improve the skin’s tone and texture and erase the signs of aging naturally — is it time to start your own practice?

LET’S SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT — gua sha (pronounced “gwa shah”) has always been popular, it’s just that the Western world and wellness industry are only cottoning on to it now. This 700-plus-year-old practice is rooted firmly in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and can be found in medical texts dating as far back as the Ming dynasty (1368–1644).

So why the sudden interest? “Selfcare across the board is trending and people are participating in skin care routines at younger ages, 30 january/february 2022 marin living.

largely because of social media,” says Gianna De La Torre, L.Ac., co-founder of Wildling (www.wildling.com), a California-based brand specializing in gua sha products.

“Gua” comes from the Chinese word for scraping and “sha” refers to the purple or red spots, known as petechiae, that appear on the body as a result of the scraping (a more gentle approach is taken on the face so petechiae is not an expected effect). While gua sha can be done all over the body to stimulate blood flow, release toxins,

help with lymphatic drainage and more, for our purposes we are going to focus on gua sha for the face.

The scraping is done with a flat stone that has both rounded and straight edges. The tool is moved in various patterns all over the face, and the practice is meant to be a slow, almost meditative endeavor. While you can find these stones made of materials like rose quartz and jade, Wildling uses the traditional Bian stone. “Bian stone is one of the original pillars of Chinese medicine; it was one of the OG healing

Courtesy of Wildling

By Casey Gillespie

beauty.

Gianna De La Torre and gua sha stone, courtesy of Wildling; Anna Gold portrait by Smeeta Mahanti

Gianna De La Torre, L.Ac.

stones,” says De La Torre. “It was created when a meteor struck a mountain in China millions of years ago and the cosmic impact created a stone that has a measurable ultrasound pulsation and far-infrared wave.”

Unlike with Botox, fillers and similar treatments, results from a regular gua sha practice are not immediate, but rather accumulate over time. We live in a culture of instant gratification and so this approach to antiaging skin care may not appeal to some, but the results are real, less invasive and much cheaper than visiting a med spa for injections.

And perhaps more interestingly, according to TCM, by hiding the natural signs of aging with things like Botox, we may be masking telltale signs about our health.

“I see the westerner approach to antiaging as more of a cover-up of something natural that’s happening,” says San Francisco–based Anna Hsieh Gold, L.Ac. (www.drannagold.com).

“It seems that in the West everyone is striving to be eternally youthful, and that’s not the way antiaging works in nature. It’s not the way that it works in holistic medicine,” she adds.

Anna Hsieh Gold, L.Ac.

Golden Rules of Gua Sha Gianna De La Torre, L.Ac., gives us some top technique tips.

1. Keep the tool almost flat to the skin and work from the center of the face outward.

2. Stabilize with the opposite hand so you’re not overstretching the skin.

3. Use very gentle pressure; pink or red skin is not the goal.

Visit Wildling’s Instagram page (@wildling-beauty) for a plethora of how-to tutorials.

Practitioners of TCM learn to recognize meridians and pathways that are used to indicate health or imbalance, and Gold argues that by trying to erase or hide the natural signs of aging, you are also erasing the natural indicators of imbalances in the body (according to Chinese imbalances lead to illness and disease).

Healthy diet and sunscreen aside, inevitably what is going on inside will show up on our skin. Whether that is dullness, inflammation, uneven skin tone, breakouts, fine line or wrinkles, it’s a given that imbalance will rear its ugly head — and one of the best ways to combat the problem? You guessed it, gua sha.

“Stagnant lymphatic fluid in the skin causes puffiness, inhibits detoxification and makes the skin heavier and more prone to sagging,” says De La Torre.

“Gua sha lifts, plumps, tones, sculpts and brightens the skin while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. You can treat the entire body by addressing the face, so you’re actually opening the flow of qi in throughout the body when you practice gua sha on the face and the neck.” marin living. january/february 2022 31

relationships.

A New Chance for Romance Local relationship guru Cassie Zampa-Keim offers some expert advice on getting out of the house and dating again.

By Molly O’Brien

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU, new relationship? Finding a valentine or playing the field in 2022 doesn’t have to be as painful as getting shot with Cupid’s arrow.

Marin’s own dating and relationship strategist Cassie Zampa-Keim, founder and CEO of Innovative Match (www. innovative-match.com), has been matchmaking for more than three decades.

She shares her expert advice on how to prepare to captivate your date and make the meeting go as smooth as Richardson Bay waters on a calm day.

The Setup “The most important thing is to make a date feel easy,” says Zampa-Keim.

“Atmosphere goes a long way when it comes to picking dating spots.” She suggests those who want to meet for a coffee date choose somewhere cozy. For a dinner date, opt for an intimate and casual but sophisticated destination that isn’t one of your go-to spots. Make it special! It’s a romantic rendezvous, not a business meeting or a lunch break.

Steer away from scheduling a longer outing for a first date — generally plan for 45 minutes to an hour, max. While out, separate yourself from technology and refrain from checking your cellphone.

“It’s very important to make a physical and mental change before a date,” says Zampa-Keim. “You need to switch from day mode to date mode, even if your date is during the day.”

32 january/february 2022 marin living.

Courtesy of Innovative Match

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Brighten up your lipstick shade, try out some shiny new shoes, let your hair down, remove the stuffy tie. Go back through any messages you might have exchanged with your date to take note of the small details that person might have shared.

“If you do your homework before the date by brushing up on your information about them, you will feel more at ease,” says Zampa-Keim. “People are also often concerned that their date won’t find them attractive or that they won’t find their date attractive. Just keep an open mind and your expectations in check.”

Zampa-Keim suggests meeting somewhere cozy for a coffee date.

Show Up

Post-Date If you feel like the meeting went well, Zampa-Keim has some tips for turning one date into a second (or third). “Too many times there are missed signals,” she says. “If you enjoyed your date, but they didn’t say anything at the end about seeing you again and you would like to see them, send a quick text the following day saying that you had a nice time. You will be able to gauge by the response if your relationship will be moving forward.”

And remember to be open-minded about the future of the relationship.

“I learn from every person I meet and I tell my clients to look at dating the same way,” she says. “Not everyone is looking for a spouse — some people are seeking a long-term relationship, 34 january/february 2022 marin living.

Five Fabulous Places for a First Date Red Whale Coffee Bar This is a cozy spot to meet a date.

It feels tucked away and offers a sense of safety and seclusion to meet someone new for the first time.

Whether you’re here for a caffeine boost or you are truly focused on meeting the one, it’s known as a judgment-free zone.

169 Paul Drive, San Rafael, www.redwhalecoffee.com Left Bank Brasserie Stepping into Left Bank feels like you’ve traveled to eternally romantic France. It’s named after the “Rive Gauche” in Paris — and can be just as romantic on a first date. A spot that once served as a popular destination for San Franciscans to dance and picnic under the stars is now a beautiful place for meeting someone new.

507 Magnolia Avenue, Larkspur, www.leftbank.com Perry’s Perry’s on Magnolia offers a casual atmosphere and welcoming service.

a companion, an activity partner, a romance or some combination.”

The Happily Ever After Fueled by her passion for making matches and providing guidance paired with a genuine admiration for the resil-

Opt to dine outside beneath the dazzling display of twinkling lights strung between the canopy of giant redwood trees for a little added romance. 234 Magnolia Avenue, Larkspur, www.perryssf.com Buckeye Roadhouse This historic Mill Valley eatery is a favorite for visitors and locals alike. Its cozy, intimate Aspen lodge–like dining room is complete with a fireplace and true old-world charm. Enjoy traditional American cuisine in a classic setting made for good conversation.

15 Shoreline Highway, Mill Valley, www.buckeyeroadhouse.com Farmshop Farmshop Marin is nestled into the heart of Marin Country Mart. Dine with style here in the airy dining room, on the expansive outdoor patio, or at the full-bar area and lounge.

Farmshop is great for dinner, drinks or brunch in a relaxed but elevated setting. 2233 Larkspur Landing Circle, Larkspur, www.farmshopca.com

ience of the human spirit, Zampa-Keim says love is and has always been at the top of her list of priorities.

“Prioritizing what I want for myself is always at the top of my list, no matter how many lists I made. If it was love, it still is. I want to give that gift to others.”

www.stock.adobe.com/Ivan Kruk

Once you’ve sat down and settled in, Zampa-Keim recommends finding some topics of interest to talk about.

Be conversational and open-minded.

Avoid anything you wouldn’t normally consider light and breezy for a first encounter with anyone. And remember every person is unique and has their own interests that make him or her special.

“Do you both like to work out?

Travel? Go to art museums? Those topics are all fair game,” she says. “You can talk about your kids, but in moderation. You’re on a date, not them. As for talking about your ex, past relationships, politics and sex? Don’t. And don’t speak negatively while on a first date, ever — you will only come off as angry and unpleasant. But remember to be conversational, and take time to listen.”

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The Good Cup

Meet Good Pharma, the craft beverage company that combats modern ailments with holistic remedies, giving consumers a new way to practice self-care, and providing a little bit of love in every cup.

By Laura Schooling

36 january/february 2022 marin living.

EVEN FOR CASUAL CONSUMERS of products in the wellness category, the medicinal mushroom craze has been hard to miss.

Gwyneth Paltrow’s been singing its praises for years. And if it didn’t happen on Goop, is it even good for you? Now Marin’s own tea titans Jill Portman and Gary Shinner, the founders of Mighty Leaf Tea, are offering restorative teas and coffees through their new endeavor, Good Pharma (www.drinkgoodpharma.com).

The product line includes four blends that are uniquely designed to aid with common afflictions. Two utilize the restorative power of mushrooms: a coffee and mushroom infusion to give you focus and get you going, and a tea to boost immunity. The other two are teas that incorporate an herb and jujube seed infusion — one to chill you out and another to help you sleep.

Courtesy of Good Pharma

eat & drink.

The company’s focus is not merely on the ingredients, but on how those ingredients are ingested. of their first company to its focus on ingredients and positive consumer experiences, not the bottom line. After selling Mighty Leaf to JAB Holding Company, which owns Peet’s Coffee, the tea leaves suggested they were not yet finished with the business. They thought they were uniquely poised to offer consumers “a sensory and indulging experience that pushed the envelope on wellness in a daily ritual practice.”

After a recent struggle with her own health, Portman soured on the ill effects of big pharma’s medical solutions, leading her to dive even deeper into natural ingredients and age-old herbal remedies. This made the use of word “pharma” all the more surprising for the wellness brand, but it’s intentional. “We are using plant-based medicines that have been around for centuries. We’re questioning how one

www.stock.adobe.com/OlegKovalevich

What sets Good Pharma apart from some of its competitors is the company’s focus not merely on the ingredients, but on how those ingredients are ingested.

Medicine — not marketing hype — is at the heart of the brand, with an emphasis on delivering pharma nature’s way.

High-quality ingredients have been sourced and extracted into high-potency granules — packing a powerful wellness punch into each cup. A compostable single-service infuser provides a soothing pour-over experience for consumers, but it serves a practical function, too — the ability to stir up the ingredients and activate the product’s supplements or “Rxtracts,” as they call them.

Portman describes herself as having been on a “personal journey of wellness,” starting back when she and Shinner were traveling around the world for Mighty Leaf Tea. They credit the success

goes about optimizing their well-being in a way that is more in tune with your body. It’s absolutely pharma, but plantbased pharma.”

When talking with Portman, you get the sense that she wants to take care of the people around her — and Good Pharma is a way for her to help as many people as possible. Once you’re in their orbit, you’re likely going to stay. All the manufacturing for the company is managed by a family-run operation in Morocco that they’ve been working with for more than 20 years.

For someone who describes “tea as an art form,” Portman’s belief in the power of her products is resolute. With data supporting the positive health benefits of not only tea and plant-based supplements, but also the known outcomes of regular meditation, Good Pharma offers a ritualistic wellness practice that calms the mind and body. And when wellness is as easy as a stroll to the kitchen, that is habit we could all get used to.

Enjoy Good Pharma tea at the Spa at Cavallo Point in Sausalito, Juice Girl in Mill Valley, and Silverado Resort and Spa in Napa Valley. Available for purchase at Palace Market in Point Reyes and www.drinkgoodpharma.com.

marin living. january/february 2022 37

Indulging in Wine Country From mud baths and outdoor showers to luxe retreats enveloped by nature — when it comes to pampering, Napa Valley spas know how to do it right.

By Casey Gillespie

38 january/february 2022 marin living.

When most people think of Napa Valley they envision rolling vine-covered hills, tastings at their favorite wineries and Michelin-starred farm-to-table cuisine.

But this list is not complete without a nod to Wine Country’s spa getaways.

Whether you opt for a spa day or turn it into an overnight stay, there are a bevy of top-notch choices. We’ve chosen a handful of Napa’s best — now it is down to you to decide where to indulge first.

Emma Morris

local getaways.

Carneros Resort and Spa 4048 SONOMA HIGHWAY, NAPA

www.carnerosresort.com Perfectly situated in the heart of the valley, surrounded by sweeping hillside views and vines as far as the eye can see, Carneros Resort and Spa is less than an hour’s drive away, but feels like you have traveled much, much farther.

The spa is bright and airy with vaulted ceilings and an earth-toned color palette. Guests will enjoy an inviting fireplace in the relaxation area, ideal for cozying up in front of with a cup of herbal tea. Visitors are treated to a welcome glass of bubbly before being escorted to a luxurious treatment room, each with its own private steam room and outdoor shower.

Don’t miss: Make time to relax at the adults-only hilltop pool and hot tub.

The bucolic panoramic views of the vines and countryside are magical.

What to book: The “Winter Spice Body Polish” treatment starts with a full body scrub using the Body Bliss Chai Spice & Vanilla Virgin Coconut Body Polish that promises to detox and exfoliate, followed by a full body massage with a heavenly aloe and shea butter cream.

Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort and Mineral Springs 1507 LINCOLN AVENUE, CALISTOGA

Courtesy of Carneros Resort and Spa

www.drwilkinson.com This iconic (and recently renovated) property is located in downtown Calistoga and offers a laid-back vibe that will tempt you to make this your regular weekend spot. Whether you are popping in for a day of mud baths and geothermal pool lounging or have booked in for a long weekend with your significant other (or friends — the rooms with bunk beds scream girls’ weekend in Wine Country), you will fall in love with the bright and cheery spaces as well as the oh-so-friendly staff.

Don’t miss: A piece of chef Trevor Logan’s famous pie.

What to book: The mud baths here are a must (doctor’s orders!). The treatment starts with a warm shower followed by a dip into the volcanic ash mud, which is activated with the natural geothermal waters Calistoga is known for. While

Carneros Resort and Spa

marin living. january/february 2022 39

local getaways.

Four Seasons Napa Valley 400 SILVERADO TRAIL NORTH, CALISTOGA

www.fourseasons.com/napavalley This newly opened property is exactly what you would expect from the Four Seasons brand — impeccably designed spaces, locally commissioned art, luxe touches and five-star service. Spa Talisa — the name is a nod to the Native American term for “beautiful water” — is a light-filled space with decor that

The Bathhouse at Solage

40 january/february 2022 marin living.

seamlessly blends the outdoor with the indoor. And with a top-notch winery on property, it would be sinful not to sample the wine either before or after your experience. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed.

Don’t miss: The outdoor relaxation area, Spa Garden whirlpool and misting deck. While you might have to book another treatment for the summer months to fully enjoy it, it will be worth the wait because on warm afternoons the misting deck is a dreamy way to stay cool.

What to book: The Perfect Pair couples’ massage is a can’t-miss. Each person will enjoy a customized massage and couples will be able to enjoy the spa facilities together before or after. The outdoor pools and garden areas are extra special when enjoyed in pairs.

Meadowood Napa Valley WWW.MEADOWOOD.COM

900 Meadowood Lane, St. Helena This renowned, Howard Backen– designed retreat is set against a backdrop of countryside so tranquil you will forget you are still close to home.

While the three–Michelin star restaurant was destroyed during the 2020 fires, the spa was untouched and remains a Wine Country destination in its own right. From the moment you drive onto the property, the peacefulness envelops you and you know you have arrived somewhere special. While the Meadowood Spa does offer outdoor male and female relaxation areas, the private suites are so inviting, you’ll be tempted to stay sequestered in your own suite the entire time — and we wouldn’t blame you one bit.

Courtesty of Auberge Resorts Collection

you relax, the mud pulls toxins from the body, exfoliates the skin and rejuvenates sore muscles. Post-mud, you steam then soak in a hot mineral whirlpool followed by a warm-blanket wrap.

If you want the full detox experience, book a post-mud massage. Bliss.

will then use the oil to massage you into a state of bliss. And the best part?

You get to take the remaining oil home to transport you back to the self-care experience whenever you need it most.

Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection 755 SILVERADO TRAIL NORTH, CALISTOGA

www.aubergeresorts.com

Four Seasons Napa Valley

Courtesy of Four Seasons Napa Valley

Don’t miss: The Treehouse Suite. Book a soaking treatment, have food and wine delivered and cozy up next to the fireplace.

What to book: If you can carve out half a day of self-care then reserve one of the treatment packages, which range from three to four hours of pampering — all in the luxurious privacy of your own suite. You can also order food and bubbly from the on-site restaurant while you lounge in your robe, so you may never want to leave.

The Meritage Resort and Spa 875 BORDEAUX WAY, NAPA

www.meritagecollection.com The Meritage Resort and Spa stands out among other resorts with its Tuscan-inspired decor and rustic

charm. Located in an underground Estate Cave, Spa Terra is the quintessential Wine Country experience. With long, open halls, curved entryways and a relaxation room that could easily double as a tasting room, you truly feel immersed in your surroundings. And a point to note, the spa offers 12 treatment rooms, so it is great for group experiences as well as solo getaways.

Don’t miss: Wellness classes. Book a weekend appointment and opt for a midmorning treatment so you can try one of the Pilates barre or yoga classes or even a guided vineyard hike beforehand.

What to book: The Aromatherapy Journey is ideal for anyone who likes a scent-guided experience.

Pre-treatment you will join your therapist at the Tara Well Bar to blend your custom scent together. Your therapist

Solage’s maze of freestanding bungalows, meticulously manicured grounds and wide-open spaces impart a deep sense of peacefulness before you even enter the spa area. And the spa is perhaps even more impressive than the resort itself — encompassing 20,000 square feet with private treatment rooms, serene shared spaces and hot and cold mineral pools, it is an oasis of wellness. Make time to visit the resort’s pool and lounge area (separate from the spa), which recently underwent a massive renovation, including the addition of Baja-inspired Picobar, an open-air poolside bar and eatery that serves seasonal fare in an impossibly chic setting.

Don’t miss: The Bathhouse. On cold winter mornings, the fog is heavy and steam wafts off of the outdoor geothermal pools. Move between the cold plunge pool (50–55 degrees), large relaxation pool (98 degrees), jetted saline pool (100–102 degrees), jetted mineral pool (102–104 degrees) and temperate magnesium-rich pool for the ultimate experience. A morning dip never looked so inviting.

What to book: The Slow Beauty Ritual, a 90-minute facial that is customized to suit your skin. Your therapist will focus on lymphatic drainage, exfoliation and painless extractions using the latest technology. You’ll love the botanical Petaluma-based Laurel Skincare (www. laurelskin.com): it is every bit as luxurious as you are imagining. marin living. january/february 2022 41

take note.

Magic Act

After more than 18 months, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child returns to San Francisco’s Curran for an extended engagement.

By Daniel Jewett

John Skelley as Harry Potter

42 january/february 2022 marin living.

Photos by Matthew Murphy

FOR MINNEAPOLIS-BORN ACTOR JOHN SKELLEY, getting the role of a lifetime — bringing the beloved character Harry Potter to life in the Tony Award–winning play (www.sfcurran. com) — came with a big homework assignment.

“I had to quickly read all the books because I had never read them. I had seen the movies so I was kind of a casual fan,” says Skelley, who debuted as Harry Potter on Broadway on a Saturday, auditioned for the San Francisco company on a Sunday and found out he landed the part that night. “I breezed through the books and finished the seventh one two weeks before I first performed it.”

But no wave of a magic wand could prevent a global pandemic, so after only a few months of performances, everything stopped in March 2020. “Everyone in the entertainment

“The first time I saw the show my mind was so blown by what I was seeing.” industry felt the pain of that,” Skelley says, adding that he is excited to see the show finally return to the stage January 11 (it runs through September 4). “It’s really changed my perspective about what it is I’m doing. It just means that much more to me now to play and become Harry Potter.”

The show, which had been previously staged as a two-part event and is now a singular experience, picks up 19 years after the end of the last book and movie and features Harry and Ginny and Ron and Hermione bringing their own kids to platform nine and three-quarters to go to Hogwarts. “I think the exciting thing is to see Harry as a parent now, having not grown up with parents himself, and navigating the difficulties of what that means,” Skelley says. “That provides a really great acting challenge.”

Challenge aside, playing Harry Potter comes with a pretty big perk. “I grew up watching David Copperfield and I love getting the chance to do magic,” he says. “The first time I saw the show my mind was so blown by what I was seeing. I couldn’t believe that I was going to get to do what they were doing onstage.”

Skelley says he thinks about the fans’ love for the character every time he takes the stage. “I feel a sense of responsibility to the fans of the books and the movies and want to bring that character to life with real integrity,” he says.

“But it’s also just so exciting when the lights go down and the announcement starts.”

In a production like this it is understandably hard to pick a favorite moment, but Skelley says for him one might be when the characters drink a Polyjuice Potion that allows them to assume the form of someone else. “I’m still dressed as Harry Potter, but I’m acting as another character pretending to be Harry Potter — that is really fun to do.”

For Skelley and his wife, returning to the Bay Area has been another plus to resuming the show. “My wife and I love the outdoors and we love going up north and hiking,” he says. “Recently, we spent a Saturday walking around San Francisco and it was the best day we had since this whole pandemic started.”

The cast displaying house banners

marin living. january/february 2022 43

The Wild New World of CBD Is Here he rt o . e f ere ess r i s ln th de out wel r i e n th hat’s ct i e u d w ar sh and pro s r ne erst new w t s o r und ttes s e o sin ette e h u h b ob ot in ar lic t es t M ub m p co in sk it Ru n k c e Za wh By

44 january/february 2022 marin living.

www.stock.adobe.com/ink drop

FOR THE PAST SEVERAL YEARS, the wellness world has been in a tizzy. The culprit? A non-psychoactive cannabis plant compound known simply as CBD, seemingly appearing in every corner store overnight. The only thing more astounding than the volume of CBD products out there today is the range of items available. It feels like there’s a CBD-infused version of just about everything.

Featuring items both logical and laughable, the array of CBD products you can now find on shelves runs the gamut from topicals and sweets to vape pens and candles. With the product crush officially on, having a firm understanding of exactly what CBD is can be the difference between finding reliable, quality products and spending a fortune on modern-day snake oil.

In many ways, the main issue with CBD boils down to a lack of regulation. While Governor Newsom recently signed several laws aimed at providing more oversight of CBD products, the fact of the matter is that there are really two versions of CBD products: the kind you’ll find at a licensed dispensary or delivery service and the type you can grab in the impulse aisle at most grocery stores.

Sure, it’s not impossible that the CBD products made available outside of dispensaries are valid and worthwhile.

Nonetheless, it’s frightening to realize that there are actually very few standards in place with regard to what it takes to slap the letters “CBD” on a package and legally turn a profit.

By contrast, the CBD products you’ll find at a dispensary are thoroughly tested, and, of course, they are also subject

46 january/february 2022 marin living.

says. “But we’re trying to educate our customers that CBD doesn’t necessarily work like that.”

Nurit Raphael, founder of top-rated local boutique cannabis concierge ONA (www.ona.life), agrees. At the same time, she also foresees CBD as being on course to eventually become “like an Advil or a vitamin” for consumers.

Established with a mission to deliver the highest quality strains, edibles and cannabis products, ONA strives to pave the way for a new culture of responsible cannabis use. As part of that effort, Raphael stresses the same concerns as Gray and Troy regarding the importance of empowering consumers to shop smart.

“We are already seeing people putting CBD in their medicine cabinet, on their nightstands before bed, and in their purses for on-the-go relief,” Raphael says. “However, where your CBD comes from is super important. Has it been tested?

Furthermore, consumers need to be educated on the entourage effect, where multiple compounds synergistically work together rather than alone.”

Valid points all, but unfortunately, until state and federal regulators take a proper interest in the matter, the onus will be on consumers and the brands they trust to spread the gospel truth about CBD. Thus, for the time being, those interested in learning more are encouraged to stay up-to-date on the latest research. It’s also probably best to stick with the stuff from licensed cannabis retailers, at least for the foreseeable future. It may be more costly, but at least it will always be the real thing.

OARA founder Charlotte Troy

This page and opposite: MGH/OARA

to the same high tax rates as other cannabis products. This price difference can turn customers off from going for the dispensary-sold stuff.

As the founder and CEO of the San Rafael–based cannabis edibles brand OARA (www.getsava.com), Charlotte Troy believes her industry missed the boat by allowing CBD to hit the market without first making sure people understood the difference in quality.

“We really screwed up by not educating consumers properly,” Troy says. “Most consumers have no idea that there’s a difference between the CBD that they’re buying at a gas station or CVS and the CBD that they’re getting from a licensed cannabis dispensary.” Beyond testing to ensure no harmful substances are detected, the benefit of buying regulated CBD comes from knowing precisely how much of the compound you’ll actually be consuming.

Though it’s true that CBD itself does not provide users with the psychoactive properties we commonly associate with the experience of being “high” — that’s an honor reserved exclusively for another mainstay cannabinoid, THC — it is recognized as a valuable calming agent, among other benefits. But what we’re starting to learn is that CBD may only be able to reach its true potential when it’s allowed to work in tandem with THC. For some, the idea of ingesting even one iota of THC is frightening, thus the appeal of CBD as a “trip-free” alternative. In isolation, however, CBD is limited in what it can achieve. When consumed as part of what’s known as a full-spectrum extraction (meaning a mix of cannabinoids and terpenes derived from a specific strain of cannabis flower), CBD works almost like a booster by amplifying whatever characteristics inherent to the plant we recognize as being beneficial for sleep, anxiety and so forth.

In industry parlance, this concept is known as the “entourage effect,” and it’s something Troy’s OARA seeks to offer to its customers in the form of products made with specific ratios of CBD and THC. Just because some THC may be required to get the full job done, that doesn’t mean those leery of a psychedelic journey need to take a dose beyond their comfort level. Instead, options like OARA’s CBD Rich Smooth Dark Chocolate, which features 8 mg of CBD and less than 2 mg of THC in each serving, allow consumers to find the balance that works best for them while ensuring they get all the benefits the cannabis plant has to offer.

“Our CBD-rich product has always had a small amount of THC in it,” Troy explains, “because the THC helps to amplify the anti-inflammatory benefit of the CBD.” When it comes to the appetites of Marin’s most avid CBD consumers, Monica Gray says the demand has yet to die down. As the COO of Nice Guys Delivery (www.niceguys delivery.com) service, Gray left a successful career in the New York fashion world to join her husband in launching a licensed cannabis delivery service in Marin County.

Naturally, Nice Guys offers a selection of CBD products as part of its menu. According to Gray, it’s the CBD gummies that sell the best. But as for ensuring that each of her customers has an accurate appreciation for what CBD can — and cannot — do for them, Gray concedes that there’s still more work to be done.

“People are buying CBD because they have these preconceived notions about how it’s going to help them,” Gray

OARA’s CBD Rich Lavender + Sea Salt Probiotic Dark Chocolate

Most consumers have no idea that there’s a difference between the CBD that they’re buying at a gas station and the CBD that they’re getting from a licensed cannabis dispensary.

ONE

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Hemp fields at Sonoma Hills Farm

48 january/february 2022 marin living.

All photos courtesy of Sonoma Hills Farm

PLANT

Young hemp plants

Meet the former French Laundry culinary gardener who founded the much-talkedabout Sonoma Hills Farm — he is growing far more than fruits and vegetables now.

By Sarah Weinberg Gold

marin living. january/february 2022 49

SONOMA HILLS FARM IS NOT A CANNABIS FARM. It’s a farm that grows cannabis — and there’s a difference.

Take it from Aaron Keefer, vice president of cannabis cultivation and production: “I just look at it as one more plant.” One more plant grown on a plot not far from the romaine lettuce that chef Tyler Florence comes to pick for the Caesar salads that are made tableside at his new San Francisco Chase Center spot, Miller & Lux. One more plant grown on soil not far from where humanely raised pigs, cows and sheep roam.

Still, when you go to the farm’s website (www.sonomahillsfarm.com) for the first time, you’re met with a singular question: Are you 21+? Answer correctly, and you can pass Go. The age verification isn’t there to protect prying eyes from a description of the farm’s Chefs’ Ranch and the support it provides to local, pandemic-stricken restaurants. Nor is it there to block underage kids from reading about Keefer’s impressive background. It’s a mandated safeguard for the tab that reads “Craft Cannabis” and lists cheeky strain names, like Pink Jesus and RBG OG. Even as laws legalizing the growth, possession or purchase of various amount of cannabis continue to be passed around the country, the topic remains somewhat taboo. “It’s interesting because you still have these echoes of Prohibition,” Keefer contends.

“People still say it’s a crime, it ruins our children, it changes your DNA. All kinds of crazy stuff left over from our war on drugs.” But any naysayers he’s run into are industry outsiders, not the farmers down the road. “They look at us like we’re farming, which is what we’re doing, right?” he laughs.

After all, this is Sonoma County, the hipper (and hippier) area just west of the more buttoned-up Napa, and Keefer has become one of the region’s most widely respected farmers and chefs. Most recently, he oversaw the culinary garden at Thomas Keller’s Michelin-starred The French Laundry.

Cannabis? It was — yep — just one more plant he’d been growing on the side, first as a teen recreationally and then for medicinal dispensaries as an adult.

Keefer’s grandparents were farmers, so a love of working the land was instilled in him from an early age. When

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he talks about growing plants, it’s with a deep reverence for the soil and the sun and the skies. Sonoma Hills Farm sits on storied soil first settled in the mid-1800s by a cattle rancher. The land has since been home to a chicken farm with a booming egg business and has seen the growth of pumpkins crowned the country’s largest. “The soil is called Steinbeck loam, and it’s really high in almost everything you need,” Keefer says. And those conditions matter, whether you’re cultivating herbs or, you know, herbs.

“Just like food, beer and wine, it’s something you’re putting in your body,” Keefer says of cannabis. “You want to

Aaron Keefer, Sonoma Hills Farm’s vice president of cannabis cultivation and production

Historic Century Barn at Sonoma Hills Farm

know how it was grown, where it was grown and how it was taken care of.

Personally, I want organic grown out in the sun and the soil. I don’t want my cannabis to be grown under lights next to a freeway in L.A.” Technically, cannabis can’t be certified organic since it’s still illegal under federal law, and the USDA’s National Organic Program is federally run. But under Keefer’s tutelage, Sonoma Hills Farm recently became one of the first two farms in the country to earn an unprecedented certification: “comparable-to-organic,” as recognized by the OCal Program under the California Department of Food and Agriculture.

It’s a step in the right direction, a direction Keefer hopes will see cannabis

being treated more like the region’s fine wines: strain lists at restaurants, growers with clubs dedicated to the herb, consumption licenses. To him, cannabis is the third leg of hospitality, next to food and drink, and it’s just at the beginning.

Down the road, Keefer dreams of opening the farm up to the public — like a “marijuanary,” he says. Right now, you can purchase Sonoma Hills Farm’s strains through Marin’s cannabis delivery services Ona (www.ona.life) and Farmhouse Artisan Market (www. farmhouse.delivery). “You could see how it’s grown and enjoy the space. It’s going to be a completely different thing than a couple of hippies smoking a joint behind a school.”

To Keefer, cannabis is the third leg of hospitality, next to food and drink, and it’s just at the beginning.

Wellness Warriors

International Orange spa

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Justin Buell

Whether it is pampering your skin, visting a wellness spa or just enjoying a great cup of matcha, these local experts all agree that it is never a bad idea to take time out for some much needed self-care.

marin living. january/february 2022 53

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All photos courtesty of Prima

Prima skin care uses CBD to enhance the wellness experience.

Stress Buster Jessica Assaf Prima

PRIMA (www.prima.co) isn’t just a beauty brand — it’s a CBD wellness phenom. The founder and chief education officer of this growing empire, Jessica Assaf, is no stranger to entrepreneurship in Marin County.

That path began in San Rafael when she was a teenager working at the Marin Cancer Project and setting the tone for her health-driven career.

She was a founding member of Teens for Safe Cosmetics, which successfully got a bill passed into California law enforcing safety standards in beauty products.

Today her work as an entrepreneur entails overseeing Prima, a purposedriven certified B Corp focusing on whole body care. Prima offers a range of products both for the skin-obsessed and for those looking to explore all that CBD products have to offer.

“To us, our products are the deepest expression of our values and truth,” says Assaf. “We’re really on a mission to eradicate the biggest epidemic of our time, which is stress.”

Assaf notes that stress acts as a toxin in both mind and body, and Prima’s nontoxic CBD well-being products leverage natural compounds of active botanicals to help combat stress and improve mood as well as sleep.

“We build these products to support the ripple effect — the idea that if someone takes care of

themselves and feels better — well, just imagine what they can do for the world and the people around them,” Assaf says.

Though Prima is an anti-stress company, Assaf acknowledges building a startup with the desire to become the leading voice in the wellness industry is a difficult undertaking. But she practices what she preaches, offering wellness perks for employees like giving them first Fridays off from work to focus on their own well-being.

“We want to empower people,” she says. “Better days are at your fingertips,

and you have a lot more power than you think in how you can feel.”

Marin has always been a haven for Assaf and she believes the community appreciates and values the importance of access to cleaning living, self-care and nature — all pillars of wellness.

“It’s easy to believe self-care is selfish, but taking care of yourself is a requirement,” she says. “We need to prioritize self-care as a form of activism and self-love, to be the best version of ourselves for others. When you feel good, you inspire others to do the same — it’s contagious.” — Molly O’Brien

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one place to the next in your experience here.’ That symbol of the bridge has become more than just the color.”

Just like its noteworthy name, International Orange breaks the mold of a typical day spa and aims to inspire a sense of transformation for each client.

To Ferst, achieving wellness and taking care of oneself should not be a luxurious splurge. There’s no need to disappear for an entire weekend — an escape to International Orange can be accomplished in an afternoon. Ferst believes this experience can be as simple as stepping away from your digital devices or letting one of the therapists work out a shoulder kink through massage.

“Schedule some time for yourself where you can step out of your life and your routine and have a space that is your own for a minute,” she says. “You’re doing something that’s really great for your body — your nervous system, muscular-skeletal system, spirit and mind.”

Ferst believes wellness is achived by creating a feeling of energy and longevity to keep appreciating the things that make living worthwhile — for her, that’s family and a passion for her business. She appreciates the abundance of opportunities to connect internally and get moving physically.

“We’re about the complete wellness experience,” says Ferst. “Wellness is in our roots of how we approach everything.” She attributes her success to a supportive network of clients in Marin and says her employees are crucial.

“This job can be physically demanding and we work really hard to make sure we’re creating a culture where everyone feels good and supported on their own journey,” she says. “This business has shaped who I am, and it’s shaped how I view wellness.

I feel so passionate about self-care and helping others.” — Molly O’Brien

Time for You Melissa Ferst International Orange 56 january/february 2022 marin living.

All photos by Justin Buell

OWNER AND CO-FOUNDER of International Orange (www.internationalorange.com) Melissa Ferst has always hustled. From dominating in sports at an early age to earning a degree from UC Berkeley before venturing into the competitive corporate world (while managing the responsibilities of motherhood), she strived by finding balance, which has always been key to Ferst’s sense of grounding.

When the dot-com bubble burst in 1999 she lost her job — but two friends (turned future business partners) decided they wanted to start their own spa business together and invited her to join them. And what about that name?

International Orange is a nod to the paint color of the Golden Gate Bridge.

“I think going over the Golden Gate Bridge feels like a sort of transformational experience,” says Ferst. “We try to achieve that — say, ‘let’s move you from

art credit

International Orange’s relaxation area

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“It’s this really intense, crazy color and that’s a good indication

Gower believes in the power of a perfect cup of matcha.

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art credit

of high-quality matcha.”

Matcha Man

Portrait by www.bryanjohnhendon.com; product photos by Christopher Tonry

Eric Gower Breakaway Matcha

SAN ANSELMO’S Eric Gower really loves matcha. “It’s this really super vibrant green,” he says about the powder, his voice quickening. “It almost looks Photoshopped; it’s this really intense, crazy color and that’s a good indication of high-quality matcha.”

Gower should know. Returning home from Japan after 16 years working as an editor at the prime minister’s office, a private chef, a restaurant critic and a cookbook author, he knew he was missing something — and that something was the mysterious green powder called matcha that he’d discovered while living in the country.

Using his food industry connections, he began to import matcha directly from Japan. At first it was just for himself and his chef friends — at one point he was distributing to restaurants like the French Laundry and others with a total of 37 Michelin stars — but eventually, starting in 2010, he began bringing in enough to sell via mail order from his San Anselmo warehouse under the name Breakaway Matcha (www.breakawaymatcha. com). “I really just wanted a secure stash,” he says with a laugh.

Gower is so convinced of the legendary health benefits of matcha — which he sources from the Uji Valley outside Kyoto where it has been cultivated for centuries — that the company website features a searchable database of thousands of research studies from around the world that use matcha as a variable. “You can search breast cancer and matcha, and boom, there’s articles on that,” he says. Gower notes that matcha contains substances

such as catechins, which are thought to induce the spontaneous killing of cancer cells, and L-theanine, which slows the absorption of caffeine and gives people “this nice, calm, focused energy that lasts a few hours.”

Gower also suggests drinking it like they do during Japanese summers: cold. In fact, the company has an entire category for coldbrew as well as for hyperpremium and culinary matcha, with 18 different blends ranging in price from $29 to $209 for 30 servings. “It’s so satisfying when it’s hot out or you’re

thirsty, or just any time; it just tastes really clean and fresh,” he says about the coldbrew. “It leaves a nice taste in your mouth and you feel good after you drink it; you’re energized and hydrated.”

But in the end, Gower insists, the best cup of matcha is one that is shared. “Drink a cup of matcha with someone you really love, someone you really care about,” he says. “You’re in a beautiful place and you serve this incredible drink and it is a bonding moment — that matcha is going to taste better.” —Daniel Jewett

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PROMOTION

Community Minded

Friendship Blooms Here Since 1921 Aldersly embarked on its first capital campaign to build new buildings, all financed by the Danes and donations from the community. Frederiksborg was first in 1962 followed by Amalienborg and Christensborg two years later. Join us to celebrate our 100th anniversary and participate in celebrations throughout 2022.

To learn more email: rachelkaloian@aldersly.org www.alderslyinbloom.org

Discover the Beauty in Botanical Skin Care Made from locally grown herbs and wildcrafted ingredients, KM Herbals’ skin care line is handcrafted with care in artisanal batches in Sonoma County. Founded by pioneering herbalist, Kim Manley, our family-owned and women-powered line highlights the timeless wisdom of plant ingredients to gently balance and restore the skin.

With over 30 years of pairing self-care with aromatherapy, KM Herbals is committed to crafting luxurious products that nourish the body and enliven the spirit.

KM Herbals | 707.878.2980 | shop@kmherbals.com www.kmherbals.com | @kmherbals

Organic to the Core Since 1969 Good Earth is an independent natural and organic grocer, proudly serving Marin since 1969. From our early days at 123 Bolinas Road to today, we’ve remained committed to advocating for a healthier and more sustainable food system, and providing our community with the highest quality organic food available. With locations in both Fairfax and Mill Valley, Good Earth offers the largest selection of organic takeout in Marin, as well as a carefully curated mix of products from pantry staples and bulk goods, to artisan cheese and 100 percent organic produce. www.genatural.com | questions@genatural.com Fairfax | 720 Center Blvd., Fairfax, CA 94930 | 415.454.0123 Mill Valley | 210 Flamingo Rd., Mill Valley, CA 94941 415.383.0123

art credit www.stock.adobe.com/insta_photos

marin trendsetters You know who you are — you’re the business owner, director or community member who is always pushing the envelope to make your life and those of your friends and customers better. As we kick off the new year and embrace 2022, Marin Living showcases Marin Trendsetters from different businesses and industries. Discover what makes our trendsetters special, how they color outside the lines and their plans to lead the way in making the new year a truly special one. Nothing changes without trendsetters.

www.marinlivingmagazine.com marin living.

march 2021 61

PROMOTION

marin trendsetters

Cassie Zampa-Keim Innovative Match A steady hand and friendly ear to help guide you through the uncertainty of dating.

How are you disrupting your industry and thinking outside the box?

I’ve always believed it’s important to keep my finger on the pulse of changes and trends in the dating industry, which is why I’m still here after more than 30 years in the business. Most recently, I’ve had to help my clients through dating during a pandemic. That meant creating strategies to help my clients to meet new people and then keep the relationship they started going, all the while staying safe.

What separates you from the pack?

I’m not a nine-to-five dating expert because, guess what? Dating isn’t a nine-to-five endeavor. I understand my clients may need me for lastminute advice, whether about what they’re wearing, how to say goodnight after a first date, or what to text after a date. Other times, my clients may need reassurance and a friendly ear. I’m here for them whenever they need me.

What’s the most interesting new innovation you have come up with?

My dating profiles are not the typical ones you’d find online. I speak to my clients personally, and have them complete an in-depth profile assessment. They tell me their story, which I then curate into a one-of-akind profile that reads like a story instead of a cliché personals ad. My profiles are as unique as the clients I write them for, and the results speak for themselves.

Innovative Match, Ross 415.259.8714 www.innovative-match.com

PROMOTION

marin trendsetters

Steven J. Magner Steven J Magner Photography Telling your story through videography and photography.

What sets you apart in home design, home furnishings, fine art and landscape architecture?

Prior to taking on this endeavor, I studied graphic design and then spent eight years working in Beverly Hills.

This background allowed me to transition into photography with the language of design.

What are you doing to stay connected with the local community?

My work has seen a major uptick in online engagement and I am receiving more inquiries than ever. I think that people have finally found time to embrace things that are important to them rather than simply moving

frantically from work to home on an endless rotation.

What do you want people to know about you?

My main goal will always be to capture the story and emotion of the spaces I photograph and film. For those thinking about working with me, I want to assure them that I see it as an opportunity to tell yet another unique perspective.

What do you and your family love about Marin County?

We’re surrounded by so much natural beauty from the views of Mt. Tam to the beautiful backroads. Sunny, Lily and I enjoy exploring every corner!

Steven J Magner Photography | www.stevenjmagner.com 310.499.8075 | steven@stevenjmagner.com | @stevenjmagner

PROMOTION

bay marin area trendsetters design

Dr. Faye Jamali Belle Marin Aesthetic Medicine Stellar care in a beautiful boutique-style setting.

What separates your business from the pack?

At Belle Marin we provide very personalized treatment to every one of our patients. We offer complimentary consultations and are not pushy when it comes to selling treatments. I perform all medical injections, lasers and microneedling.

With the help of my highly trained staff, we also offer the newest and best technology when it comes to body contouring and facial services.

Christophe Testi/creativeshot.com

How has the pandemic inspired positive change in your business?

As restrictions have lifted, we have seen a major influx in new and returning patients that want to feel refreshed and resume their self-care.

Whether it be with Botox, fillers, BBL Hero, Body Contouring or facials, we have everything our patients need to give them that “10,000mile tune-up” they are seeking.

What’s the most interesting new service you offer?

We are now offering our Belle Marin Body Combo treatment for maximum body contouring. Using the TruSculpt iD for 24 percent fat reduction combined with TruSculpt Flex + for the most powerful and effective muscle building on the market, you get faster and superior results.

Belle Marin Aesthetic Medicine 250 E. Blithedale Avenue, Suite B, Mill Valley, CA 94941 415.481.3010 | hello@bellemarin.com www.bellemarin.com | @bellemarinca /bellemarinaestheticmedicine

PROMOTION

marin trendsetters

Dr. Cat and Randy Gibson, L.Ac. 9 CORNERS Med-Cryo-Spa Your go-to spot for effective non-invasive treatments.

What is trending now?

The award-winning Pagani T-Shock with Static Pads can be found exclusively at 9 CORNERS. It is the most advanced, nonsurgical method for permanent fat removal and toning of stubborn fat deposits in the stomach, buttocks, hips, backs, thighs and arms.

How does it work?

Pagani Static Pads are placed in the selected area. Heat and cold comfortably alternate through the Pads melting down fat cells without disrupting healthy cells. It is safe, effective, painless and natural. There is no recovery time.

How long is a treatment and how many are needed?

Fat removal and toning treatments are 20 to 45 minutes every two weeks.

Treatment plans vary from 5 to 10 treatments depending on client goals.

Generally, there are no side effects apart from potential increase in going to the bathroom for a day or so.

How soon are results seen and how long do they last?

People see results immediately and up to three weeks after initial treatments.

Treatment results are proven to destroy and reduce fat cells in treated areas by about 20 to 40 percent. The fat cells do not come back in the area.

Why are Static Pads essential?

Results are beautiful, smooth and more consistent than manual methods.

Plus, using the Pads allows for social distancing.

9 CORNERS Med-Cryo-Spa Vintage Oaks Shopping Center 415.209.9600 www.9corners.com

PROMOTION

marin trendsetters

Jennifer Brinn Reiki of Marin Learn how to use Reiki to understand your energy system and promote wellness.

What is it about you or your business that makes you a local trendsetter?

After 18 years of being in private practice in San Francisco, I started Reiki of Marin as a school and healing center so it can be an inclusive, supportive resource for those seeking comprehensive training, personal growth and healing. As Reiki continues to move into the mainstream, more people are recognizing the many benefits of this energy healing modality.

What sets you apart in your industry?

After serving thousands of clients and teaching hundreds of students, my passion is to foster pathways for any student wanting to practice Reiki

professionally. Reiki of Marin exists as an incubator for self-discovery and professional development by offering our students advanced training, mentoring, practice opportunities and even rental space to begin building their own professional practice.

Have you started any trends in your industry?

I trained to become a registered yoga teacher in 2015. Since then, I developed a workshop called Reiki & Restorative. It is a slower-paced yoga class that blends guided meditation, restorative yoga and hands-on Reiki to help participants connect to a deeper state of relaxation.

Reiki of Marin, 300 Valley Street, Ste. 202, Sausalito, CA 94965 /jenniferbrinnreiki | @jenniferbrinnreiki 415.430.5813 | reikimarin@gmail.com | www.reikimarin.com |

PROMOTION

marin trendsetters

Susan Van Liere Realtor Compass Five-star service and an attention to detail set this agent apart.

What sets you apart in Marin County’s crowded real estate industry?

Learning and utilizing new technology and innovations is an important component to my success as a realtor, and I use state-of-the-art sales, marketing and statistics tools to empower my buyers and sellers. I also make sure we review the documents required in a real estate transaction so my clients understand the process and can confidently make or accept the strongest offer.

How has the pandemic inspired positive change?

Restrictions and limited access to properties necessitated a return to a very hands-on approach to listing and showing properties. My clients and I continue to benefit from spending one-on-one time together, touring homes and connecting in person or via Zoom.

Susan Van Liere, Realtor Compass | 490 Magnolia Avenue, Larkspur, CA 94939 | 415.302.7173 | susan@susanvl.com | www.susanvl.com @svanliere | /susanvanliererealtor | DRE #01323865

sweetgreen Tash O’Sullivan, Nor. Cal Area Leader Fast food, reimagined for a heathier you.

What sets you apart in your industry?

We’re leading a movement to reimagine fast food for a new era. We aim to empower our customers, team members and partners to be a positive force in the food system. That’s why we’re building a transparent supply network, why we cook from scratch, and why we’re building a community of people who believe in the power of real food.

What do you want people to know about your business?

Our menu features unprocessed ingredients, including 30-plus plants that stay whole until our team starts chopping. We minimize adding sugar where nature didn’t grow it, opt for oils with the highest nutritional value, and keep every bowl within a healthy caloric range. sweetgreen | 284 Bon Air Center, Greenbrae, CA 94904 415.874.0012 | greenbrae@sweetgreen.com | www.sweetgreen.com @sweetgreen | / sweetgreen

PROMOTION

marin trendsetters

Allison Tryk Floramye This CBD company promotes self-care and stays connected to the community.

What separates your business from the pack?

Women who own cannabis businesses realize that we are stronger together, so we participate in different collaborative networks. We work with other companies to innovate products that we couldn’t create alone and to mobilize, follow legalization and create inclusion.

How has the pandemic inspired positive change in your business?

We significantly improved our self-care as a result of the pandemic and designed new products that are as experiential as they are effective.

What are you doing to stay connected with the local community?

We hold monthly events in front of our shop like ear seeding, jewelry fusing, tarot and henna hand painting.

Founder Allison Tryk, (left) with co-owner Ruby Hackney

Floramye | 270 Magnolia Avenue, Larkspur, CA 94939 800.484.0124 | www.floramye.com | @floramyeCBD

Kim Manley KM Herbals Supporting the community with handcrafted skin care products for nearly 30 years.

What is it about you or your business that makes you a local trendsetter?

I founded KM Herbals in 1992, long before clean selfcare products were widely valued. I channeled my love for family, appreciation of botanical ingredients, and expertise as a pioneering herbalist and aromatherapist, into a collection of gentle and soothing formulas.

How has the pandemic inspired positive change in your business?

Handcrafting botanical wellness products and donating to essential industries was my way of spreading love in a time of crisis. We extended our line to include plant-powered hand sanitizer, purifying spray, hand soap and mask mists.

KM Herbals | 707.878.2980 | shop@kmherbals.com www.kmherbals.com | @kmherbals

Kim Manley with daughter Bonnie Campbell

PROMOTION

marin trendsetters

Pankaj Kapahi, Ph.D. Juvify Discover breakthrough, sciencebased supplements that boost energy and slow aging.

What is it about you that makes you a Bay Area trendsetter?

I am a professor at the Buck Institute for Research on Aging, and we have a made a breakthrough discovery that could become a revolutionary weight management and antiaging program. I founded Juvify with the vision to promote safe lifestyle interventions like fasting in combination with supplements to improve healthspan.

What is your unique approach to health and wellness?

Sugar and carb cravings are the number one reason people age faster and fail to lose weight. We have developed GLYLO (GLYcation LOwering), a novel combination supplement which counteracts the toxic effects of sugar to help reduce sugar cravings, boost energy and slow aging. GLYLO is available on Amazon and consists of FDA-approved ingredients.

Juvify | 8001 Redwood Boulevard, Novato, CA 94945 pkapahi@buckinstitute.com | 415.209.2201 | www.juvifyhealth.com

Gilbert Carrasco Aldersly Retirement Community Serving Marin’s elders with dignity for 100 years.

Do you or your business have a unique or notable history in the Bay Area?

Aldersly was founded in 1921 and is turning 100 this month.

It is a stable retirement community in Marin county that has cared for elders for the last 100 years and plans to do even more for the next 100.

What are you doing to stay connected with the local community?

Our Life Plan community will be hosting several events over the next year to celebrate our 100th anniversary. Our May 21 event will be a 100th Anniversary Gala at the Marin Country Club and we plan a block party in September.

Aldersly Retirement Community | 326 Mission Avenue, San Rafael, CA 94901 | 415.453.7425 | rachelkaloian@aldersly.org www.alderslyinbloom.org

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Shaping the Future of Innovative Care

PROMOTION

marin trendsetters

Dr. Stephanie Bridwell, MS DC Energy Flow Studio Spinal care that helps you revitalize your system and live your best life.

What is it about you that makes you a local trendsetter?

I work with people to make direct changes in the moment. Every nervous system is as unique as a fingerprint. When I assess someone’s system, it isn’t just where there are symptoms. I look at the whole sphere of a person. I work with each individual spine to improve healthy connections with the body, emotions, thoughts and overall access to joy.

What’s the most interesting new service you have come up with?

I’m able to do a lot of my work through Zoom as well as in person. I offer membership programs. EFFERVESCENCE is for harmonizing the nervous system, and RAVENOUS is for supporting women to come into their full expression.

Energy Flow Studio | 412 Red Hill Ave, Ste. 12, San Anselmo, CA 94960 | 415.931.5878 support@drstephaniebridwell.com | www.drstephaniebridwell.com /carpediemsb | @drstephaniebridwell

Sahra Brandt Shop the City This personal stylist keeps an eye on the trends.

What is it about your business that makes it a local trendsetter?

Having spent my life working in the fashion industry, I’ve always been surrounded by trends. I keep up to date with fashion trends all year, taking inspiration from runways as well as the real world, including people watching around the Bay Area. Using my detailed eye, I’m able to help define what is trending and who it can benefit — not all styles need to be worn by everyone.

What separates you from the pack?

I really take the time to listen to my clients. My goal is for them to feel confident and comfortable, not to make commissions on their purchases or force them into things that don’t work for them just for the sake of fashion. I like to say working with me is like hanging out with a friend.

Shop the City | 347.778.1582 | info@shopthe.city www.shopthe.city | /shopthecityUS | @shop_the_city

inside out marin home March is when we welcome spring and it is the time to start sprucing up your property inside and out for whatever your next steps may be. Whether it’s selling your home and looking for the new residence that speaks to your style and design or hiring a designer or landscaper, we will be showcasing individuals and businesses that offer their expertise and talents in these areas. Marin Living readers are design enthusiasts and are looking to align themselves with individuals that provide real estate solutions as well as interior design, landscaping and staging services. Get in front of them with an advertorial profile in the March special section and tell them what makes you and your business stand out. We will enhance your exposure with a sponsored article on our website for one year, newsletter promotion to 18,000 opted-in subscribers, social media posts, and offer branded assets for your channels.

For more information contact Jessica Cline, 707.302.0850 follow us on social @marinlivingmag + subscribe to our newsletter at www.marinlivingmagazine.com/newsletter

www.marinlivingmagazine.com

going places.

New Year Reset

SHA Wellness Clinic

72 january/february 2022 marin living.

Courtesy of SHA Wellness Clinic

White sharks make their return to the Bay Area, 2022’s must-visit wellness retreats and a Marin couple living out their dream in Hawaii.

Buy the Home of Your Dreams Sellers like cash! Be a cash-like homebuyer in today’s competitive real estate market and close quickly. We offer short-term bridge loans made easy to help your offer stand out in the crowd. Contact us today to learn more.

SOFIA NADJIBI, MBA 1680 Tiburon Blvd, Unit 9 | Tiburon, California sofia@gglendinggroup.com I 415.366.5668 gglendinggroup.com I @goldengate_bridgeloans

Book to be released Spring 2022

DRE #1405277 I NMLS #241012

C R E AT E Y O U R D R E A M O U T D O O R L I V I N G S PA C E Modern Era specializes in the installation, maintenance, renovation, and design of interlocking paving for your driveway, walkway/ pathway, outside living area, and more.

SPECIALTY SERVICES: driveway | walkway | patio | pool deck concrete deck overlay | sitting and retaining wall | artificial grass installation pergolas and gazebos | outdoor kitchen fire pit | water features

LUCAS TARSO SILVA (CEO) | 415.250.9700 | WWW.MODERNERADEVELOPERS.COM | LT@MODERNERADEVELOPERS.COM

land & sea.

The Central California white shark population sits at less than 300.

White Shark Rendezvous

A marine research team conducts long-term monitoring of white sharks off coastal Marin, keeping tabs on population health and dynamics.

MARINE ECOLOGIST PAUL KANIVE, PH.D., recalls a particular day of work in 2008 amid mundane coastal Marin conditions of dense fog and calm waters. Punctuating the otherwise forgettable day, a dorsal fin slowly broke the surface of the water, the tail following some distance behind. “With the distance, it was hard for me to put together it was the same animal,” says Kanive of first encountering a white shark, Carcharodon carcharias, while working as a research field technician near Tomales Point. White shark adults can reach impressive lengths of more than 20 feet, sizes that readily dwarf the human observer.

Kanive, who now lives in Montana, returns to Marin County each fall along with local collaborators including 74 january/february 2022 marin living.

white shark expert Scot Anderson and a broader team of researchers. Together they rendezvous with white sharks that make their way back to the California coast annually from an area of the Pacific Ocean dubbed the “White Shark Cafe,” located between Baja and Hawaii. By monitoring sharks in the waters around Tomales Point — as well as the Bay Area’s Farallon and Año Nuevo islands — over time, Kanive and the team have accumulated novel insights into white shark survival rates and population trends.

White sharks are identifiable by their dorsal fins, so Kanive and team have been able to monitor the return and health of individual sharks over time. “We see a lot of the same animals year after year after year, and it’s good to see old acquaintances. At the same time when you don’t

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see some of the old guard you start to wonder about what their fate was or if they are still around,” says Kanive. This fall the group was relieved to reunite with the 17-foot Mr. Burns (for the 16th year in a row) near Tomales Point. White shark longevity has been documented to reach up to around 40 and 70 years old for females and males respectively, meaning that long-term observations of individuals are important for developing insights into population dynamics.

The data collected by Kanive and other researchers facilitate estimation of overall population growth rate and composition, such as sex and age ratios.

Fortunately, Kanive’s work suggests stability in white shark populations around Central California, including off Marin’s coast at the moment, aided by healthy populations of pinnipeds (e.g., seals and sea lions) as well as bans on harvesting white sharks and on gillnetting in coastal waters. Importantly, white sharks are key to maintaining ecosystem balance, given they are one of the few natural controls on seal and sea lion populations. Nonetheless, the Central California white shark population sits at less than 300 individuals, meaning it still faces vulnerabilities.

“Everything has to come together for an apex predator to thrive and survive,” says Kanive. The Marin coast provides

ideal nurturing conditions, including important food sources. “This coast meets the needs of white sharks. We have large populations of elephant seals, sea lions and harbor seals, and we have those large populations due to the 1972 Marine Mammal Protection Act,” he adds. “Since that time the rebound in white shark population has been pretty amazing.”

While the researchers are working closely with the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Stanford University, funding woes since the Covid-19 pandemic have meant Kanive and team are independently patching together ways to continue their work. They have turned to a GoFundMe campaign to cover basic research needs. For Kanive, beyond funding, the GoFundMe campaign has created an unexpected opportunity to engage with folks at large, connect people with the incredible biology in their backyard, and ultimately help the researchers ensure progress on a rare, long-term white shark dataset. After all, who else is going to check in on Mr. Burns?

You can support Paul Kanive and the group’s work on the California Great White Shark Count in our local ocean waters via the GoFundMe campaign: www.gofundme. com/f/california-great-white-shark-count.

Scot Anderson

White sharks are identifiable by the dorsal fin.

76 january/february 2022 marin living.

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The Daily Grind

If Kona Earth can package the perkiness of its owners, Joanie and Steve Wynn, the world will be lining up for a bag of its premium, 100 percent Kona coffee from Hawaii’s Big Island.

By Laura Schooling

AFTER 30 YEARS in video production, the Emmy-winning duo Joanie and Steve Wynn had a case of pandemic doldrums and decided to pack in their known way of life in Marin for a change. Having long had ties to Hawaii, they opted for a big change on the Big Island where they could acquire a little bit of land. So, when Steve said, “What if we cash out everything and become coffee farmers?” it didn’t take much for Joanie to get on board. Joanie adds, “We’re not going to settle into pre-retirement. We want to totally shake it up.”

Many people have grabbed a bag of Kona coffee — one of Hawaii’s prized exports — at the airport, brewed it up,

and had a less-than-transcendent experience. That may be because many coffees labeled as Kona may have as little as 10 percent of the precious bean in the mixture. That’s a little like buying a two-buck Chuck and calling it a Napa cabernet.

Hawaii coffee makes up only .04 percent of the world’s coffee, while Kona coffee is exclusively grown in the Kona Coffee Belt on the Big Island’s western coast. “It has a completely unique flavor,” says Steve. “And most people have probably never tried it.”

Kona Earth is a family-run operation, with Steve manning the fields and Joanie managing the marketing and sales.

All images courtesy of Kona Earth

Kona coffee is grown in the Kona Coffee Belt region on the Big Island.

78 january/february 2022 marin living.

Kona Earth founders Steve and Joanie Wynn

While the property has long been an operational farm — the Wynns bought it from another couple who had left the Bay Area almost two decades earlier — this harvest is the Wynn’s first. They’re offering three 100 percent Kona products direct to consumers on their website (www.konaearth.com), including a Kona Classic, Extra Fancy and Kona Peaberry variety. Like most of life’s best things, Kona coffee doesn’t come cheap. It’s meant to be savored, not guzzled. Steve suggests that more education is needed to help people achieve the perfect cup, which requires buying a good coffee grinder, using the right ratio of beans to water, and adapting your technique based on your preferred brewing method, such as French press or pour-over.

Though Hawaii can be notoriously resistant to outsiders, Joanie says “the farming community is small, welcoming and open.” Kona Earth is one of about 600 farms in the region, many of them also family-run. This collaborative environment aligns with the Wynns’ desire to give back to their community, which they are doing with their Care in Every Cup program, in which a percentage of proceeds from Kona Earth go to the Kohala Center (www.kohalacenter.org). “They do wonderful work to support local farms and small agricultural businesses.

They also run educational programs to develop the next generation of farmers and work extensively in educating the public about the importance of reef protection,” says Joanie.

“With time, we hope to offer our farm as a learning laboratory to students interested in coffee farming.”

It may be pure coincidence that Kona coffee was first planted in Hawaii by a 19th-century Spaniard with the last name Marin, but it turns out the good-natured farm-to-cup operation at Kona Earth is just about as Marin as you can get. The couple ran their video production business out of a Sausalito houseboat before moving it to Muir Beach, and Steve, who graduated from Redwood High and was a volunteer fire chief in Muir Beach for a number of years, says their new life on the Big Island reminds him of his youth here — friendly people and a focus on being active outdoors. We can all raise a cup to that. marin living. january/february 2022 79

voyager.

Life Disrupted

These immersive retreats are giving guests the tools to make lasting life changes.

Courtesy of SHA Wellness Clinic

By Casey Hatfield-Chiotti

80 january/february 2022 marin living.

THE WORD TRANSFORMATIONAL is thrown around a lot these days in the health and wellness space. Who doesn’t want to transform something in their lives, whether it’s their health, mental state, career or all of the above?

The period of extreme change we’re experiencing collectively may have only exacerbated this desire. Many wellness resorts claim to offer dramatic results through life-altering, immersive experiences and treatments, but how many of them deliver? Here are five wellness retreats, and one soon to open, using everything at their disposal, from stunning natural settings to cutting-edge medical advances, to offer guests the most profound gift, the opportunity to emerge a better, healthier and more balanced version of themselves.

Castle Hot Springs Location: 50 miles outside of Phoenix Healing philosophy: A digital detox retreat with therapeutic soaking. All accommodations are screen-free (even the Wi-Fi password “areyousureyou wantto” encourages unplugging), and Castle Hot Springs’ world-class mineral hot springs date back 13,000 years.

art credit

Atmosphere: Down a dusty dirt road against the Bradshaw Mountains, Castle Hot Springs (from $1,500 per night; www. castlehotsprings.com) channels the Old West. Wild burros roam the desert landscape strewn with steep canyons and saguaro cactus, and the yellow Cape Cod–style lodge, where JFK famously recuperated from injuries sustained in World War II, feels very turn of the 20th century. The hotel opened in 1896 and became the winter retreat of choice for America’s most famous industrial families such as the Vanderbilts, Astors, Wrigleys and Roosevelts, who came to soak in the healing thermal waters. With three bluish-green pools surrounded by lush palm trees, Castle Hot Springs feels like a hidden paradise. A fire shuttered the resort in 1976, and it remained closed until a Phoenix couple revamped and reopened it in 2019. The accommodations, 30 new cabins and bungalows, are midcentury-meets -Southwest with the exception of a 100-year-old restored cottage.

SHA Wellness Clinic

What to book: All the buzziest treatments are offered, from energy healing

to gua sha, but Castle Hot Springs excels at customization. The signature massage is designed to address each guest’s specific needs and preferences, and therapists will employ specialized techniques to achieve the desired outcome. Guests can add things like a stimulating scalp treatment and gemstone collagen mask designed to repair skin on a cellular level.

Other perks: There are telescopes outside rooms, bungalows for nighttime stargazing and outdoor stone tubs plumbed with hot springs water with all guest suites.

SHA Wellness Clinic Location: Alicante, Spain, about an hour and a half south of Valencia Healing philosophy: Achieving optimal physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing through healthy nutrition, holistic therapies and preventive medicine.

Atmosphere: Overlooking Altea Bay and a 13,000-acre conservation area known as Serra Gelada Natural Park, SHA

82 january/february 2022 marin living.

The Gold Standard of Wellness Coming Soon to Coachella Valley Technology pioneer Larry Ellison and physician and scientist Dr. David Agus are opening their second Sensei retreat and first mainland location later this year in Rancho Mirage, California.

Sensei Porcupine Creek (www. sensei.com) will convert a 230-acre private estate next to the Santa Rosa Mountains into an ultra-luxury well-being experience. Like Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort in Hawaii, the retreat will have a state-ofthe-art diagnostic center, yoga and fitness pavilions, a swimming pool and the restaurant Sensei by Nobu. Preventive health science, data and research will inform treatments that aim to improve everyday living.

Wellness Clinic (from $4,390 for a sevennight program; www.sha wellnessclinic.com) is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Mediterranean.

According to the World Health Organization, the region’s climate is one of the most optimal for good health. The clinic’s austere modernist architecture is softened with hanging gardens draped over terrace edges, and there are multiple water features, including a swimming pool with a waterfall. SHA is the result of a transformative personal experience.

After years of medical issues, founder Alfredo Bataller Parietti recovered his health thanks to integrative medicine and healthy nutrition. The SHA method combines medical advances with dietary reeducation and natural therapies intended to improve longevity.

What to book: A bit of a commitment, SHA offers a variety of health programs from seven to 21 days, including Optimal Weight and Healthy Aging and the more demanding Detox designed to purify the body of toxins. The program includes a personalized food and

Courtesy of The Wilde Resort

The Wilde Resort

voyager.

Other perks: Healthy nutrition is at the core of the SHA experience. In the Chef’s Studio, guests learn to prepare veggie-filled, energy-boosting Japanese and Mediterranean meals that they can incorporate into their daily routine. The restaurant SHAmadi serves healthy haute cuisine where even desserts like carrot cake crumble with coconut cream contain zero sugar, dairy, egg or gluten.

Blackberry Mountain Location: In the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, 40 minutes southeast of Knoxville

Courtesy of Cal-a-Vie Health Spa

Healing philosophy: Using art, adventure and the healing environment of

the mountains to improve body, mind and spirit.

Atmosphere: On verdant Chilhowee Mountain, Blackberry Mountain (from $845 per night; www.blackberry mountain.com), the sister resort to famed culinary destination Blackberry Farm, comes with everything a mountain retreat might: mist-covered valley views, thickly wooded hillsides and a feeling of serenity. The Lodge and Hub (which has an art studio where activities might include pottery and basket making, a yoga loft and a climbing wall) are mid-mountain while accommodations are in various settings. There are Treehouses shrouded in a forest, Stone Cottages that hug the mountainside and Watchmen Cabins at the mountain’s peak near the Firetower restaurant in a restored 1950s lookout.

What to book: From LED light therapy to nervous system resets, treatments at Blackberry Mountain are anything but run-of-the-mill. At the spa, called the

Nest, therapies include perfectly paired experiences like Create, where guests try out aerial yoga and watercolor meditation and leave feeling freer and more joyful. The high-performance Alpha Beta + Vitamin C Brightening Facial aims to repair the effects of sun damage and reverse aging through a professional peel system and a collagen-building eye treatment.

Other perks: With 5,200 acres to explore, hiking is a must. Trails crest rocky ridgetops and snake down into cool, damp creek bottoms.

For an adrenaline-fueled experience, the Arbor Adventure is a guided ropes course between three custom-built treehouses.

The Wilde Resort Location: Sedona at the base of Thunder Mountain Healing philosophy: Rugged beauty and mysticism combine for a rejuve-

Cal-a-Vie Health Spa

marin living. january/february 2022 83

Courtesy of Cal-a-Vie Health Spa

health plan, bioenergy assessment, hydrotherapy and medical services like an oxidative stress test. SHA has also introduced a program for those who have recovered from COVID-19 but are still experiencing long-term effects.

voyager.

Castle Hot Springs

Atmosphere: Formerly known as the Sedona Rouge, The Wilde reopened with a new look and name in September 2021. The lush green grounds with a labyrinth, gardens and courtyard planted with Italian cypress trees contrast with the red rock formations that surround it. The Wilde Haven Spa — where local healers perform specialty bodywork, lead meditation, qi gong and yoga nidra with sound bowl healing — has outdoor soaking tubs and seating areas for quiet contemplation. The 105 simplebut-tidy guest rooms sport jewel-toned colors and Southwestern motif pillows.

What to book: The mountains, vortex sites and local plants and vegetation inspire many spa treatments at The Wilde; it’s also a place to connect with your inner Zen. During the traditional Japanese Mountain & Sea bathing ritual, spa goers are buffed with wild cherry rice, followed by a soak in a 84 january/february 2022 marin living.

hinoki mint mineral bath and a massage with kinoxei lime and plum blossom.

Other perks: Often a hub of activity, which may or may not be what you’re after, the Wilde offers stargazing, cocktail classes, Native American flute blessing ceremonies and storytelling around the fire pits.

Cal-a-Vie Health Spa Location: Vista, just north of San Diego Healing philosophy: Cal-a-Vie Health Spa (from $5,050 for three nights; www. cal-a-vie.com) combines luxurious European spa philosophies with the California concepts of fitness, health and nutrition to help guests achieve attainable goals and optimal health.

Atmosphere: The property’s owners are true Francophiles who want guests to feel they’ve been transported to the South of France. The destination spa’s 500 acres are planted with fields of fragrant lavender, citrus groves and vineyards. The proprietors even imported a 400-year-old chapel, parsonage and l’orangerie from Dijon, France (the space is used for events),

and furnished interiors with authentic French antiques. Cal-a-Vie offers three-, four- and seven-night spa vacation packages, including gourmet cuisine, with over 160 fitness classes, hiking, beauty and spa treatments, mind-body awareness programs, lectures, guest speakers and accommodations in 32 private villas.

What to book: While the place doesn’t look like a medical spa, many Cal-a-Vie treatments go way beyond massages and facials. Guests can get wellness injections and try out Feldenkrais, a movement discipline that can help with pain relief. To go a step further, book a full-body cryotherapy treatment in which guests are immersed in a chamber flooded with extremely cold air for one to three minutes. The treatment help ease muscle pain and promote faster healing after injuries. The CBD-infused Cafe Noir Slimming Wrap exfoliates the skin to help reduce the appearance of cellulite and scars.

Other perks: Cal-a-Vie has pickleball courts and an antique store exclusively available to guests as well as an 18-hole golf course.

Courtesy of Castle Hot Springs

nating experience at The Wilde Resort (from $219 per night; www.thewilderesort.com), where East-meets-West spa treatments are focused on healing and spiritual growth.

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“Nobody really cares.

Nobody’s forcing them to really evaluate and change because it’s all we’ve got. So I

In Your Hands Novato’s OpenCures offers first-of-its-kind health assessments that help put you in control of your health and biomedical data.

By Daniel Jewett

KEVIN PERROTT’S JOURNEY, from automating his family’s motorcycle sales business in St. Albert, Canada, to doing his biomedical engineering Ph.D. work at Novato’s Buck Institute for Research on Aging to opening one of the most innovative health assessment clinics in the world, started with a thyroid cancer diagnosis.

“When you are healthy, you have no idea what it is like to go through the medical system,” Perrott says, adding that a condition he developed post-surgery called tetany caused all his muscles to cramp at once and doctors mistreated it. “You realize just how incompetent everybody is for the most part, 88 january/february 2022 marin living.

how little they know. And we’re basically barely past the Stone Age of taking things out of people to fix them. There’s no sophistication to it.”

As he lay suffering in his hospital bed and seeing other patients suffer, it occurred to Perrott how little control over the process they all had. “Nobody really cares. Nobody’s forcing them to really evaluate and change because it’s all we’ve got.

It’s complicated, don’t worry about it, we can’t understand it anyway,” he says of the implied message to medical establishment patients. “So I wanted to empower individuals.”

Perrott says he founded OpenCures (www.opencures.org) to answer one simple question that kept occurring to him while working at the Buck: “Why can’t I run my own biological samples through this equipment and get information that I can use to optimize my health?”

To get clients that data, OpenCures uses a multimillion-dollar mass spectrometer operated by a California company called Prodrome that takes a small drop of blood, ionizes it into a mist of particles and shoots it into a magnetic field. The hyper-accurate data that comes back has measurements of 300 biomarkers related to health that have all been studied. Tests are $350 and include a workshop and consultation.

“If you’re nonoptimal in any of those biomarkers, you can do something about it with your diet and supplements, basically — they’re all modifiable, and you can take action on them,” Perrott says, adding that the workshops tell clients which changes to make to address any issues and then a retest can let them know how they are doing. “You’ll see that now you have control. I call it a smog check for the body; it’s all about prevention. People don’t really appreciate how rare this approach is.”

OpenCures has recently partnered on two clinical trials: one involves the testing of a blood flow moderation device used to enhance the performance of Olympic athletes and to help those with Type 2 diabetes, and the other, run with AgelessRx, is the first-ever community-sponsored clinical trial on the use of rapamycin for longevity (www.agelessrx. com/pearl). For Perrott, it all fits with the company mission of putting the power of the research that has been done into the hands of those who need it — the patients. “How can we speed things up?” he says. “It became very clear to me that nobody was going to do this. We are calvary; we have to use the resources available to help ourselves.”

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wanted to empower individuals.”

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