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PUBLISHER
Jaunt Media Collective
OWNER + EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Kim Fuller
OWNER + DIRECTOR OF PARTNERSHIPS
Bobby L'Heureux
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Chelsea Connolly
MANAGING EDITOR
Lexi Marshall
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COORDINATOR
Chloe Wasserstrom
CONTRIBUTORS
Brooke Doaks, Carrie Lehtonen, Chloe Wasserstrom, Jamila Colozzi, Jennifer Weintraub, Julie Bielenberg, Kaitlin Emig, Kim Fuller. Kimberly Nicoletti, Lexi Marshall, Lisa Blake, Lu Snyder, MacKennea Broyles, Sandy Ferguson Fuller, T.J. Vobori
PHOTOGRAPHY + ART
AVABLU, Draper White Photography, John Busch, Kelly Shroads, Kim Fuller, Mackennea Broyles, Marine Jaud Photography, Mikkel Vang, Ryan Dearth, Sandy Ferguson Fuller, T.J. Vobori
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COVER
Nicole Zapoli
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DEAR
READERS,
Lately, I’ve been thinking about what it means to feel at home in your own body.
Maybe it’s the rhythm of winter, that invitation to pause, to listen and to rest into stillness. Or maybe it’s the slow unfurling of spring, a reminder that we are always in the process of becoming. Between these two seasons lies a quiet wisdom — a call to notice what’s within, to move with awareness and to honor the ways our inner and outer worlds are intertwined.
To embody is to live with intention; to breathe into the present moment, to let the mind and body speak the same language. It’s the feeling of being fully here: in the flow of yoga, the steadiness of a mountain walk, the spark of creativity
or the courage it takes to simply be still. When we embody something, we give it life and make it real.
In this issue, we celebrate that connection through the people and stories who live it daily. Our cover feature, Nicole Zapoli, radiates strength and presence, showing what it means to move through life with purpose and well-being.
You’ll also find inspiration to embody creativity, community and joy through mindful art, nourishing food, outdoor adventures and life practices that bring us back to body and breath.
Each page invites you to explore embodiment in your own way — through movement, reflection or simply by noticing how life feels as it moves through you. As we transition from the deep rest of winter into the renewal of spring, may this issue remind you to inhabit your life fully, fiercely and with love. +
With gratitude,
Kim Fuller with Bobby L’Heureux With baby Emery + Pepper pup Publishers of Well. Founders of Jaunt Media Collective
Well. publishers Kim Fuller + Bobby L’Heureux
Q+A WITH NICOLE ZAPOLI, PROFESSIONAL FITNESS + WELLNESS COACH
When did you first join the wellness world and what continues to fuel your passion?
I entered the wellness world as just a kid, long before I ever called it a career. Some of my earliest memories are of watching my dad do headstands, push-ups and sit-ups in the living room. I would try to do whatever he was doing, and eventually he taught me the basics like how to do a proper push-up, get into a frog stand and hold a headstand. That was my first taste of how empowering it feels to be strong in your own body, and it really stuck with me. We were always riding bikes, swimming and playing outside as a family.
By the time I was 8, I already knew I wanted to be a coach and own a gym one day. In eighth grade, I had the opportunity to train at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The OTC required us to attend nutrition classes, and that’s when everything clicked. Nutrition, movement and wellness could be a way to help not only
athletes, but everyday people live better and feel stronger. From that moment, I never looked back.
What fuels me today is the same thing that sparked it all early on: helping people step into their own mental and physical strength, reconnect with their minds, bodies and overall health, and build lives that feel good from the inside out. Empowering others to live stronger, healthier and happier lives is what drives my purpose.
What does "embody" mean to you and how do you personally embody health and happiness in your daily life?
To me, embodying something means living it in a way that is authentic, soulful and aligned with who you truly are. It’s about genuinely representing your values through your actions, your energy, your presence and the way you move through the world. It’s passionate, it’s honest and it comes from the inside out. I embody health and happiness by living in alignment with what I call my “6
SHIFTS” — my personal pillars for living a strong, healthy and happy life. These 6 SHIFTS quite literally saved my life. They are my anchor, my reset button and my daily compass. These are fully explained and shared in my new book, Live FIT from the Inside Out, so others can apply them in their own lives and experience the same alignment, empowerment and purpose they have given me.
They help me stay consistent and disciplined without losing joy or freedom but amplifying it. Living the SHIFTS allows me to not just “talk” health and happiness, but to be it; to show up with enthusiasm, resilience, self-awareness, love and intention.
Embodying health and happiness, for me, is about aligned synergy; mind, body, spirit, relationships and purpose all working together. It’s how I strive to live, lead, parent, coach, connect and create.
Why is fitness an important part of wellness and what are your wellness recommendations?
Movement itself is deeply healing, helping to restore and balance both the body and mind. Regular movement strengthens not only our muscles and bones, but also our minds. It builds resilience, supports mental health and cultivates a strong mindset that helps us navigate life’s challenges. Fitness contributes to longevity, long-term wellness, independence and freedom as we age, while also defending against cognitive decline and conditions like dementia.
By combining fitness with my 6 SHIFTS and focusing on small, steady, sustainable changes, wellness becomes a lifestyle, not a short-term fix. This approach allows people to reclaim energy, confidence and joy while strengthening and protecting their bodies, minds and independence for a lifetime. +
nicolezapoli.com
This cover feature is a sponsored partnership.
P artner SPOTLIGHT
PHOTO COURTESY OF NICOLE ZAPOLI
MEET THE TEAM
KIM FULLER
Publisher + Editor-In-Chief
Based in Vail, Colorado, Kim is a freelance writer, editor and photojournalist in addition to her role as co-founder at Jaunt Media Collective, the publishing company behind Well., YOGA + Life, Spoke+Blossom and Covered Bridge. When she is not diligently writing and editing in her mountain nook, teaching yoga around town or finding a new adventure, find Kim at a local café or craft brewery where she enjoys the more indulgent side of inspiration. See more of her work at kimfullerink.com and follow her on Instagram @lifeinfull
BOBBY L’HEUREUX
Publisher + Director of Partnerships
At the heart of his work, Bobby thrives on community and connection. As co-founder of Jaunt Media Collective, the company behind Well., YOGA + Life, Spoke+Blossom and Covered Bridge, Bobby successfully develops and sustains collaborations with entrepreneurs and businesses all over Colorado and beyond. Bobby lives in the Vail Valley and is the founder of Big Heart Big Hands, a nonprofit that supports mountain safety and awareness. He teaches a weekly yoga class that is always led with a big smile and a relaxed demeanor. Learn about all his ventures at jauntmediacollective.com
PEPPER L’HEUREUX Director of Happiness
When he’s not perched atop stacks of magazines or playing fetch in the Jaunt office, find Pepper lounging paws-up on his Orvis recovery couch. Pepi loves to watch the door and collect mail when it’s dropped through the slot, distract other office dogs from any sort of paw-ductivity and barge into the bathroom without knocking. While maybe one day Pepper will stop chewing up the mail enough to qualify for an HR position, his excessive level of daily joy keeps him as a valued team member. Follow along @pepi.thehappy
LEXI MARSHALL Managing
Editor
Lexi’s love for the mountains led her to plant roots in Denver, Colorado. You’ll often find her waking up with the sun and burying herself in a computer, glasses on. Outside of writing and editing, she likes to read, hike and lead yoga classes. Learn more at lexireich.com
CHELSEA CONNOLLY Creative Director
With a cultivated eye for design, Chelsea's work has been influencing luxury publications and brands for over 15 years. Chelsea calls Breckenridge her home, but the Colorado native has been shaped personally and professionally by living all over the world. In addition to designing Well. and Covered Bridge, you'll find her spearheading the look and feel of award-winning beauty brands and world-class restaurants. Chelsea enjoys the outdoors, live music, yoga and Pilates, gardening, traveling and spending time with her husband and two sons. Follow her @thechelseaconnolly
CHLOE WASSERSTROM
Community Engagement Coordinator
Chloe finds comfort in the Colorado air and the stories woven throughout nature's peaks and valleys. When she is not exploring the world around her and translating it onto paper, you can find her on her yoga mat, on a pair of skis or her head in a book, most likely with at least three hydrating beverages nearby. The passionate storyteller finds joy in exploring the balance between stretching and strengthening as she guides yoga flows, and the profound presence within each turn while teaching skiing to young spirits. Follow her @chlowass
TINA PORTER’S PATH
Yoga in Living + Loss
tinaporteryoga.com
For Tina Porter, yoga is not about the sequences of shapes. Rather, it is a lifelong practice of returning home to oneself. The Denver-based yoga instructor says she embodies breath, strength, resilience, presence and peace to hold both grief and joy in her daily life.
Porter didn’t find yoga; yoga found her. At 22, while living in Los Angeles, a serendipitous last-minute invitation led Porter to her first class. What started as a curiosity became two or three classes a week for over a decade.
“I wasn’t just sharpening a tool,” Porter says. “I was unknowingly building a survival kit. One that I still contribute to and reach for every single day. Our body can tremble with turbulence, muscles shaking and our minds quaking, but we learn to breathe bigger and exhale longer which allows us to soften into things that are hard. When we do this consistently, we grow reservoirs of patience, tolerance, courage, benevolence, the ability to stay focused and so much more.”
Since 2001, Porter has brought her passion off her mat and fills space with it. She’s built an online library of 300plus classes and teaches in person at Samadhi Yoga Sangha in Denver.
“There’s nothing more in my life that I believe in than the magic we receive when we get quiet and still,” Porter emphasizes. “Conscious breath is the key to presence, sensuality, sensitivity and getting back your strength — a power that we may not even know we are capable of.”
Porter’s family faced profound adver-
sity when her late son Brody, once a vibrant mountain athlete and yoga practitioner, was diagnosed with a rare, aggressive brain tumor, Diffuse Midline Glioma H3K27M, at the height of COVID-19. Until his final days at the age of 14, Brody was cherished by all, graciously leading with love and fearless kindness.
Brody’s legacy lives on in how Porter shows up for others. As a mother, she has learned to stay present amid deep loss. Now, Porter walks beside fellow students of life navigating their own loss — a death, breakup, child leaving the nest or job loss — offering ways to move through pain without bypassing it. Through supported poses, breathwork, somatic grounding and simple rituals, she helps people find their way back to center.
Grief does not simply reside in the mind. “It lives in the jaw, the belly, the back, the breath,” Porter says. “When you acknowledge that, then the healing can begin and it’s less theoretical, more embodied.”
Porter is a firm believer that the body remembers everything. She emphasizes the importance of expressing feelings, so stories do not “lodge in our tissues, our organs and every system in the body, creating aches, pains and dis-ease.”
Whether or not you live in Colorado, Porter’s practice is at your fingertips. Her Mindful Life Cleanse is a 28-day personal healing journey; it explores and redefines the relationship with all things we consume: food, drinks, medications, technology, relationships and anything else you have an unconscious loyalty to. Once you purchase the program, it is yours forever.
The mother, wife and yoga instructor is also adding “author” to her list of titles. Porter is working on a book about how “a close family of four enduring the worst possible situation … continue on with open hearts.” It is a book for anyone looking for a gentle place to land, offering breath practices, journal prompts, healing movement and more. +
CONSCIOUS BREATH IS THE KEY TO PRESENCE, SENSUALITY, SENSITIVITY AND GETTING BACK YOUR STRENGTH — A POWER THAT WE MAY NOT EVEN KNOW WE ARE CAPABLE OF.
TINA PORTER
Chloe Wasserstrom Community Engagement Coordinator @chlowass
DR. TAMI CLARK
Breckenridge Acupuncturist is Pioneering Psilocybin + Psychedelic Integration
The winter after Dr. Tami Clark’s husband Doug passed away, she received an intuitive hit nudging her to look into plant medicine. Cancer had taken Doug from Clark and her children and, months later, the lingering grief was dark, heavy and raw. Clark’s psilocybin journeys brought some relief, allowing her to process and release stuck sadness.
“Counseling helps, but at the same time doesn’t help,” she says. “We miss that person so deeply. For me, the plant medicine helped bring the grief up from where I was storing it and allowed me to release it.”
After decriminalizing psychedelic mushrooms in 2019, Colorado voters approved Proposition 122 in 2022, allowing psychedelics to be grown and possessed. Once Colorado approved facilitation, Clark knew it was time to add guided psilocybin wellness journeys to her offerings at the TLC Acupuncture &
Natural Medicine clinic.
Today, Clark is a licensed psilocybin facilitator that has been green-lighted by the Town of Breckenridge to move forward with psilocybin experiences at her healing center. The reiki master and acupuncturist specializes in death and dying, chronic illness, depression and anxiety. Through acupuncture, she has helped hundreds of patients process grief and trauma and reconnect with their inner selves. She says psilocybin experiences can “reignite vitality, making life feel vibrant and enchanting once more.”
Clark’s training included 150 hours of intensive learning, covering everything from safety and ethics to journey preparation and integration. Clients must be over age 21 and must commit to four appointments. During these sessions, Clark conducts a consultation to go over medical history and any medication or mental health contradictions that might disqualify the client from this type of experience.
She prepares the client for the journey by discussing their desired setting and intention, and designating a responsible post-journey driver. On the actual psilocybin journey day, a minimum of five hours is booked (three hours for a micro-dose session) and clients choose psilocybin in the form of capsules, chocolate or tea. Every journey is different, Clark says, noting that she is there to support clients with eye masks, blankets, music, essential oils and temperature control.
“I’m in the room the whole time,” Clark says. “I do not offer counseling or psychiatric services. I’m there for support, keeping them calm, making sure they’re not getting anxious about the journey itself.”
Clark says it’s important to recognize the legal differences between cannabis and psilocybin in Colorado — you cannot walk into a healing center and purchase psilocybin. It must be administered in the healing center.
The fourth and final appointment is an integration session where Clark works with clients to process what came up for them during their journey. The community response since opening her healing center this past summer has been positive on all fronts, she says, without any push back or skepticism. Her guided psilocybin experiences clientele has mostly fallen between the ages of 40 and 75, and have been working through depression, grief, addiction, end-of-life anxiety, chronic pain, eating disorders and migraines.
“It’s beautiful to see the changes people go through,” Clark says. “Psilocybin creates new pathways in the brain. New ways of thinking. There’s so much anxiety and depression in the world and this is such a great medicine and tool.” +
Lisa Blake Writer @lisananblake | lisablakecreative.com
PHOTO COURTESY OF DR. TAMI CLARK
EVOKE 1923
Zero-Waste Fine Dining Lands in the Colorado Foothills
evoke1923.com
There’s a moment when guests sit up straight in their chairs, tastebuds at attention, forks perched in anticipation, fully present and ready to discover something new. This is the scene chef Rand Packer prepares for all day in his passionate quest to create unforgettable, boldly elevated dining experiences.
“It’s all about building dimensions and introducing new popping flavors to make their minds wonder what they’re tasting,” Packer says.
Heralded for reigniting Evergreen, Colorado’s culinary scene, Packer runs the Muddy Buck Cafe, Murphy’s Mountain Grill, Kiki’s Fresh Bowls and almost one-year-old Evoke 1923, along with the newly opened La Rocca Rossa.
Inside Evoke’s 103-year-old walls, the chef-owner really makes minds wonder. Aromatic kefir lime leaf wafts in a pond of steamed mussels, grilled peppermint elk wears a tart cherry ginger infusion, sea bass melts into house-fermented miso and preserved persimmons. Even
Evoke’s cocktail program savors splashes of Japanese yuzu and lemongrass — two of Packer’s favorite ingredients to work with.
Guests witness broad strokes of Japanese and Hawaiian influences, a deep nod to Packer’s years on Maui and Oahu working with Roy's Hawaiian fusion cuisine. The Southern California native and California Culinary Academy graduate began helming the grill at age 10, cooking his mom’s favorite black and blue porterhouses. He remembers sprucing up boxed mac n’ cheese with chicken, extra cheese and broccoli at 8 years old and impressing high school buddies with gourmet snacks conjured from cupboard scraps.
Today, Packer makes the most of Colorado’s short growing season and his own wildly impressive composting garden — it brims with 10 types of lettuce, Korean purple radish, daikon root, Japanese shiso, six heirloom corn varieties, butternut squash, beets, carrots, lemon balm and more.
Evoke not only composts all food
Chef-owner, Rand Packer
scraps, chefs also transform meat trimmings into refined cooking oils and craft stocks from excess bones, which turn into rich demi-glace. Packer’s ambitious fermentation program was cultivated to preserve peak-season ingredients and stretch summer flavors well into winter months. Finding that perfect balance of seasonality and unexpected flavors, Packer’s local fans can’t stop raving about his earthy matcha dumplings and lemony truffle squid ink cavatelli.
Once the summer home of the Colorado Philharmonic and formerly known as the Rocky Mountain Tea Room, Evoke maintains a certain 1920s elegance. With a fireplace crackling during winter months, piano playing on the weekends and a red barn resting on the meadow across the street, the aesthetic is upscale homestead. A true blending of heritage and innovation.
Simply put: No one else is doing this.
“There’s absolutely nothing like this in Evergreen,” Packer says of Evoke 1923. “I feel like, in today’s world, you need to step outside the box and give people more dimensional bold flavors that will hit their tongue a little bit longer and a little bit different than they’re used to.” +
Lisa Blake Writer
mountaintideprovision.com
MOUNTAIN TIDE PROVISION CO.
Where Surf Culture Meets Alpine Soul
Surf’s up in Carbondale, Colorado with the new wave of Mountain Tide Provision Co., a fresh addition to the town’s Main Street. Merging coastal inspiration with alpine heritage, a laid-back ethos pulses through the Roaring Fork Valley, thanks to this dry goods boutique that celebrates movement, creativity and wellness for both locals and visitors.
The 2,000-square-foot shop — Carbondale’s first to explicitly bridge mountain and beach culture — is the brainchild of Greg Morrison. After more than two decades in the outdoor and lifestyle retail industry, Morrison envisioned more than a shop; he dreamed of a community hub rooted in intention and wellness, where people come to connect, get inspired and
feel good — whether they’re shopping or simply soaking up the energy.
“We are constantly energized and inspired by our customers and community,” Morrison says. “We enjoy participating in events throughout the Roaring Fork Valley and also look to channel a portion of proceeds into critical resources for our region.”
Another force of energy behind Mountain Tide? Morrison’s daughter, Sage, now a senior at Roaring Fork High School. “From color palettes to social media to event ideas, Sage has this natural intuition for what people want and need right now — especially young people looking to express themselves and find a sense of purpose,” Morrison says with a smile. After the final school bell rings, you might spot a handful of
Sage’s friends drifting in to browse the shelves, filling the space with laughter and backpacks dropped by the door. On Wednesdays, the familiar faces of farmers market regulars mingle with travelers speaking a dozen different languages. Each interaction — whether it’s a local teen trying on jeans or a visitor marveling at a handmade ceramic mug — threads another strand into Mountain Tide’s tapestry, making it a place that feels both deeply local and effortlessly global.
Upstairs and down, Mountain Tide is filled with curated lifestyle clothing, footwear, accessories and home goods that reflect both function and joy. The inventory includes emerging brands like Faherty, Rhythm, Finisterre, Hikerkind and Autry, plus coveted classics like Pendleton, Free
WE’RE INTERESTED IN PRODUCTS THAT PROMOTE A VIBRANT LIFESTYLE — WHETHER THAT’S A JACKET FOR A SNOWY HIKE, A JOURNAL FOR MORNING REFLECTIONS OR A CANDLE THAT REMINDS YOU OF SUMMER SURF.
GREG MORRISON
People, Sorel, Reef and Jetty — all brought together to represent a thoughtful balance of style, sustainability and story.
But Mountain Tide isn’t just about fashion — it’s about living well. “We’re interested in products that promote a vibrant lifestyle — whether that’s a jacket for a snowy hike, a journal for morning reflections or a candle that reminds you of summer surf,” says Morrison. “We see wellness as multidimensional — creativity, movement, calm community — it all matters.”
This ethos is echoed in the shop’s interior design, where natural light, ocean tones and tactile textures encourage lingering and daydreaming. Local wellness professionals and creatives regularly pop by to browse and chat, and there's always room on the shop’s agenda for hosting pop-ups, artist features or selfcare mini-workshops during Carbondale Arts’ First Fridays or the annual Mountain Fair.
Mountain Tide pledges 1% of all sales to nonprofits making a difference in the Roaring Fork Valley. “Supporting local impact is non-negotiable,” says Morrison. “From mental health to conservation to youth programs, our community gives so much, and we want to be part of that cycle.”
A strong digital presence supports the store’s mission to uplift from both near and far. Sage runs Mountain Tide’s storytelling engine, managing newsletters and social content between school and sports. “It’s pretty surreal to be 16 and already helping shape a brand,” she says. “But it’s also incredibly motivating. I’m always learning — whether it’s planning a content calendar or figuring out how to make a photo connect.”
In this way, Mountain Tide reflects the essence of Carbondale itself — a place where creative minds, wellness seekers and adventurous spirits meet. Where the ocean and mountain don’t feel so far apart. And where shopping small doesn’t just mean finding something new — it means feeling good about where it came from, who it supports and what kind of life it helps you build. +
Author of My Oceans: Essays of Water, Whales, and Women
In My Oceans: Essays of Water, Whales, and Women, author Christina Rivera Cogswell dives into the intersections of motherhood, eco-feminism and environmental grief with both urgency and poetry. Through stories that are intimate yet expansive, the Edwards, Colorado-based writer reveals how caring deeply for our planet can feel as personal as caring for our own bodies. As this issue of Well. explores the theme of embody, Cogswell’s work offers a vivid reminder that love, loss and resilience live not only in our minds, but in our skin, our breath and our daily choices. We spoke with her about the inspirations behind her book, the challenges of writing it and the ways she hopes readers will carry its message forward.
What first inspired you to write My Oceans, and how did you decide to structure the book and weave together memoir, science and eco-feminism? My 16 years working in the field of international experiential education took me to oceans around the world, and what I witnessed underwater left me speechless. But words are my trade and so — with this book — I wanted to explore my awe, my wonder and also my concern for what might disappear if we don’t notice. The Leatherback Turtle, the Manta Ray, the Sperm Whale, the Great Barrier (and other) reefs, are just a few of the magical creatures and ecosystems currently
struggling under the immense weight of human impacts. Science can feel stark when relayed in only facts. So I wrote into the stories of these watery beings and places I love, by the way of my own (watery) body and enmeshed experiences. The final book was much more “memoir” than I set out to share. But I simply could not separate my “mothering body” from the mothering body of the planet. I saw only the confluence and wrote right into it!
Could you share how embodiment played a role in your writing process — did embodying particular emotions or experiences guide your narrative choices in My Oceans?
I wanted my book to capture experiences of “embodied environment” and for the pages to vibrate with emotions — fear, overwhelm, rage, delight and reverence. To do that, I had to dwell in feelings, some effervescent, some awkward, some painful. I didn’t quite realize the heavy lifting — of the writer or the reader — in holding these big emotions. People often share that they have cried reading this book, but I do feel that those tears — sourced in a shared love for our natural world — honor the Earth. They are also often repressed tears! It’s hard to stare directly at the hurts of the Earth. But denial can be even more painful in suppressed ways. So the expression of grief, in tandem with our love, can be such a relief.
Or so I hear from readers. And knowing you’re not alone, can also feel so healing! The shared resonance can open doors to shared concern, shared motivation to care and (hopefully!) a collective drive to protect what we love.
Your book parallels systems that control women’s bodies with those that exploit the Earth. How can embracing embodiment become a form of resistance or healing?
When I read today’s headlines, I see a lot of institutional grasping to dominate our environment (and similar efforts to control the bodies of women, marginalized people and voiceless species). Yet I also feel the readiness in our community body for a collective shift — from controlling to caring. I believe that care-taking (be it children, art, gardens, old growth trees, oceans, animals or anything else beautiful and threatened) makes a life worth living, and that fighting to protect what we love is worthy, regardless the outcome. To care is to resist the powers that don’t care. In this fast and distracted world, that feels deliciously subversive. And a community that unites in the name of caring? That’s the uprising I want most to see in the world.
Now that the book is out in the world, what has surprised you most about how readers are connecting with it? My press slapped the label of “memoir” on the back of My Oceans two weeks before the book went to print. At the time, it shocked me. But now I see it too. It was a vulnerable book to write, and also to publish and share with the world. But I love vulnerability. It’s what makes us tender and strips us down to our strings of DNA (of which we share 94% with dogs, 80% with whales and 60% with bananas). What has surprised and warmed me most in this book journey is how readers have embraced that vulnerability and tenderness — and reflected it back. +
Kim Fuller Publisher + Editor-In-Chief @lifeinfull
BRINGING THE TRUTH TO LIGHT
The Three Questions by Jon J. Muth
Have you ever asked yourself each or any of these questions: When is the best time to do things? Who is the most important one? What is the right thing to do?
Seeking those answers for himself, Count Leo Tolstoy, one of Russia’s greatest novelists, moral philosophers, social reformers and an outstanding thinker, published a short story in 1903 entitled The Three Questions . A century later, picture book author and illustrator Jon J. Muth was inspired to adapt the original tale to share Tolstoy’s sophisticated message with an audience of all ages.
Instead of a Russian czar, the protagonist in Muth’s book is a young boy named Nikolai who wants to be a good person, but often feels uncertain about the best way to act. He turns to his animal friends for guidance and they try to help. Sonya is a soaring heron; Gogol is playful monkey; Pushkin is an earnest, loyal dog. Each offers different ideas to Nikolai, but none seem quite right. Niko-
lai decides to ask Leo, the elderly turtle who will surely give the right advice.
The wise turtle remains silent, understanding that the boy must discover these truths for himself, through living. Nikolai’s journey to Leo leads him into events that demand his immediate attention and action, without free time to ponder his deep questions. Instead, he must focus on the present and on the obvious, right thing to do in the moment to help those in need of him.
The next morning, Nikolai feels more at peace, but still missing the answers to his three questions. When he asks Leo once more, he realizes that his actions have brought the truth to light. As Leo explains:
The old turtle looked at the boy.
“But your questions have been answered!” he said.
“They have?” asked the boy.
“There is only one important time, and that time is now.
The most important one is always the one you are with.
And the most important thing is to do good for the one who is standing at your side.”
Muth’s stunning watercolors and profound storyline create a fresh, fun and timeless tale. The animal characters borrow their names from special sources. Pushkin and Gogol are both famous Russian writers; Sonya was Tolstoy’s wife; Nikolai was Tolstoy’s brother. For the illustrations, Muth modeled Nikolai after his own son, Pushkin after his dog and the baby panda bear rescued by Nikolai after his daughter. The wise turtle Leo is, of course, Tolstoy. The book is available in hardcover and paperback, and was also read by Meryl Streep for Storyline Online in a 2024 YouTube video.
The Three Questions is a beautiful, classic picture book for all ages, and a perfect gift for special occasions. +
It begins with a simple piece of paper: flat, nondescript, lifeless. You might fold it in half, and in half again — repetitive motions that shape a two-dimensional rectangle into a three-dimensional crane, frog or other whimsical creature. Origami, the Japanese art of paper folding, draws us into mindfulness, a state of embodied flow.
Studies by the University of Tokyo show that practicing origami for 15 minutes daily reduced anxiety and increased feelings of well-being. The repetitive motion, as well as the wonder of creating something pleasing, generates the same kind of relaxation response as deep breathing or guided meditation. It soothes the nervous system, drawing people into a rest-and-digest state, where all healing takes place.
“It calms people down. They’re sitting in one place. There’s nothing else required — just their breath and the paper,” says Bonnie Cherni, Epic Origami creative director. “You regulate your breathing better because you’re just doing calming, repetitive, eye-and-hand movement. There’s a stillness in folding
with yourself and folding with others. It can be a very serene meditation.”
Epic Origami, based in both Boulder, Colorado and Hawaii, displays largerthan-life origami installations, usually built from metal, throughout the world. The team recently returned from a twoand-a-half-month stint in Tokyo, and has exhibited locally in Denver International Airport, the Museum of Boulder and Boulder’s Dairy Arts Center, the latter of which showcased a 7.5-foot origami dragon in 2019. They also teach workshops for kids, adults and corporations seeking team-building activities.
“They see the installation, and that gets them fired up about origami,” Cherni says. “They’re showstoppers. Usually, when you see an origami crane in someone’s hand, you don’t turn your head, like ‘Whoa, look at that,’ but when you see a 4-foot elephant, that’s really exciting.”
Epic Origami employs the ancient art form to mitigate today’s over-reliance on modern digital devices, drawing people in through verbal instruction.
“It’s leveraging that oral tradition.
It’s not a screen you have to read. You don’t have to get into an app. You don’t have to read a book. It’s a person telling a person,” she says. “There’s a huge amount of introducing children back to real life and to the textural, kinesthetic part of feeling the paper in your hands. It has a very human element; we go back to human interaction. Our workshops are known for giggling.”
They start with forms that take less than a dozen steps to ensure the process is fun, rather than frustrating.
“People fold a few steps, and they get big results, and that encourages them,” Cherni says, adding that paper is less intimidating than art supplies like paint, so it circumvents any bad memories people may hold around art. “It’s almost like magic, so people get the impression that they’re creating a magic trick, and magic doesn’t usually happen with AI — it’s usually a human doing magic for another human. The paper was flat, unrecognizable as anything, and then you transform that paper like magic with your hands, and you get a little creature that can look at you. I think it’s reflective of creation. There’s this feeling that you’re the creator. You progressively keep folding to the point where it stands, and that’s why we call it Epic Origami. It’s kind of an epic moment.”
Origami quiets people’s racing minds and bodies, whether they have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or are just indoctrinated by society’s norms of doing things faster and faster. Cherni has taught kids who didn’t want
to sit down or do anything “brainy,” but the creatures they could make out of paper motivated them.
“One kid will do it and then the other kid will do it, and then they all will start feeding creatively off each other,” she says.
It’s also unifying, in that people of all backgrounds and beliefs can come together and literally be on the same page. And that, in and of itself, is calming.
“Origami combines creative meditation with what might be called ‘yoga for the hands.’ Folding — one of the simplest acts — holds astonishing power to bootstrap forms, stories and even entire worlds from scratch. It’s like watching a universe spring to life before your eyes,” says Jean-Baptiste Labrune, a professor Cherni taught origami with at the University of Colorado Boulder and a research affiliate at the MIT Media Lab in Massachusetts. “This process of re-creation echoes how our own cells evolve, heal and grow — through micro folding. Bonnie Cherni’s macro folding explores
I THINK IT’S REFLECTIVE OF CREATION. THERE’S THIS FEELING THAT YOU’RE THE CREATOR. YOU PROGRESSIVELY KEEP FOLDING TO THE POINT
WHERE IT STANDS, AND THAT’S WHY WE CALL IT EPIC ORIGAMI. IT’S KIND OF AN EPIC MOMENT.
BONNIE CHERNI
this further, scaling the millennia-old art into human-sized sculptural artifacts. Her works invite us not just to fold with our hands, but to step into a landscape shaped by the gesture, crafting a new kind of well-being and aesthetic horizon.”
There’s a reason origami has persisted for thousands of years. The delightful practice combines focused attention
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FEEDING STUDENTS, FUELING COMMUNITY
Bringing Dignity, Choice + Connection to the Fight Against Hunger
At first, it was 50 backpacks of nonperishable food items sent home with students of McElwain Elementary School in Thornton, Colorado on Friday afternoons. During the 2024-25 school year, Food for Hope, a nonprofit based in the Denver suburb, distributed 21,160 bags of food to children and their families to fill the weekend hunger gap.
What began in 2014 as a simple food bag program for one school has grown into a three-pronged, community-driven effort to fight hunger — a challenge affecting one in eight residents and one in five children in Adams County, Colorado.
The most significant branch of the Food for Hope program is its 10 comprehensive food pantries, designed and reserved for Adams County students and their families. More than just nonperishable items, these food pantries offer high-quality, nutritious food options, including fresh produce, dairy, bread and meats.
“We like to encourage client choice whenever possible,” says Emily Stromquist, Food for Hope executive director.
“We direct as many clients as possible to the pantries so that people can choose the items that are most meaningful and needed in their family.”
This setup allows families to accommodate their health needs, cultural preferences and allergies. It’s also essential for maintaining dignity, a key component of Food for Hope’s philosophy.
“Most families would prefer not to be at a food bank,” says Stromquist, “but we really believe that quality food with good nutrition lends itself to dignity, so there's a dignity in having quality foods to choose from in these circumstances.”
Feedback from clients illustrates just how broad the spectrum of these circumstances can be. For some clients, it’s an unexpected job loss, for others, a towering medical bill. Recently, new immigration policies have resulted in situations where one parent is “suddenly gone,” says Stromquist, “and so then the other parent is left to have to support the family.” Regardless, Food for Hope is there to help.
This accessibility does not come without its challenges. Operations Director Reba Mackintosh often walks a tightrope, balancing cost and availability of food with nutrition and desirability. Recent tariffs and supply chain stressors have further complicated the balancing act. “We went a long time without eggs,” Mackintosh says.
Additionally, like any caregiver knows, cooking for little ones still developing their palates can be a tricky task. “We’re always trying to find that balance between what's nutritional, what is healthy, but that kids are going to actually eat,” says Stromquist.
Pantries are not only well-stocked with an array of ingredients, but also friendly volunteers who build relationships with families and students, and are notorious for going above and beyond.
At one location, volunteers took it upon themselves to put together “preshopped” baskets of ingredients to make kid-friendly, nutritious meals when they
noticed that many of their shoppers were the students themselves, often in charge of making dinner.
Other volunteers have shown up with items they purchased themselves en route to the pantry. Mackintosh tells the story of two student shoppers who frequently inquired about jalapenos. Although the pantry wasn't able to stock them, a volunteer began regularly bringing them in to give to the students.
With students at the heart of its program, Food for Hope’s third arm — its snack distribution program called School Fuel — works to keep students fed and happy between meals by providing more than 4,000 nutritious and appealing classroom snacks each week to 17 Adams County schools.
For children and adolescents, snacks
are not only desirable but necessary. Because of their small stomachs relative to their energy needs, snacks help to fill nutritional and energy gaps to keep students focused on learning and growing. Many classrooms incorporate snack time into their daily routine, but run into empty cupboards or empty pocketbooks.
“A lot of teachers spend their already limited income to supply snacks for kids that need it during the day,” says Mackintosh.
Food for Hope is more than just a food pantry and nutritional assistance for participating Adams County students and their families; it’s a system rooted in empowerment that fosters a sense of community. Recipients often aspire to return later as volunteers or bring along friends in need, even when they no longer need to shop.
For many, Food for Hope is just that — a beacon of hope, a helping hand and a reassuring support system during even the most challenging times.
“My family of six struggles to have enough money and food on the table for everything we need,” one client writes, “[Food for Hope] is so helpful not only with food, clothes and holidays, but they feel like family and are so ready to help, care and even talk with you about your struggles and needs. They make me feel welcome, loved and like I'm doing something right when everything else is going wrong.” +
MacKennea Broyles Writer
FINDING BALANCE IN KAUAI
A Mother-Daughter Wellness Journey at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
The morning light filters through the floor-to-ceiling windows at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, painting Kauai’s emerald mountains in a soft, golden hue. My mom and I sit in silence, sipping fresh coconut water and watching the waves roll into Hanalei Bay. It’s our first morning on the island, and already I feel a kind of stillness I’ve been chasing for years.
As a seasoned travel writer with an anxious mind, I’ve made a career out of moving — collecting stamps in my passport, itineraries in my inbox and too many half-finished meditation apps on my phone. But here, on Hawaii’s oldest island, I came not to chase anything — but to pause.
THE SETTING
Nestled in Princeville on Kauai’s North Shore, 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay stands at the edge of one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world: where towering cliffs meet turquoise waters at the end of the fabled Nāpali Coast. The property is the flagship of the 1 Hotels brand — known for its sustainability ethos — and features 252 rooms, each designed with reclaimed materials, native greenery and views that pull the outside in.
From the moment we arrived, everything felt intentional. The filtered water station in our room, eliminating single-use plastic, became one of my favorite small details. My mom admired the organic cotton linens, while I was struck by how quiet the room felt, as though the building itself had learned how to breathe.
The property’s sustainability credentials are remarkable: a 7,400-gallon rainwater harvesting system irrigates the gardens, saving roughly 3.5 million gallons each year, while about 70% of the resort’s landscaping features native plants — restoring 28% of the site, or nearly 96,000 square feet, with native and adapted vegetation. It’s one thing for a hotel to claim it cares
about the environment; it’s another to see that commitment flourishing right outside your window.
A SANCTUARY FOR BODY + SOUL
The Bamford Wellness Spa became our refuge. Created in partnership with organic pioneer Carole Bamford, the spa’s 18 treatment rooms and holistic menu blend modern technology with Hawaiian healing traditions.
Before my treatment, curiosity led me to the spa’s ocean float therapy room, where I spent 30 minutes suspended in a private saltwater vessel. For someone whose nervous system runs on high alert, the experience was profoundly calming — a rare invitation to fully let go and a reminder that wellness can be both ancient and cutting-edge.
My main event, the Intuitive Herbal Ritual, was customized by an extraordinary massage therapist who immediately sensed my anxiety about lying flat on my stomach. She thoughtfully pivoted, adjusting everything with such care. She incorporated warmed noni leaves on areas of tension (my stomach) and used traditional Hawaiian techniques alongside Bamford’s organic oils to support relaxation without ever forcing it. I truly felt seen and cared for in that moment. When I left the room, I felt lighter and grounded.
MOVEMENT WITH MEANING
Many mornings began at the 10,000-square-foot fitness center, which was so impressive my mom and I agreed we’d happily pay the (surely steep) membership fee if we lived on the island. The space draws an unmistakably California-esque crowd: effortlessly stylish, sun-kissed and committed to health as a way of life. The vibe is aspirational, yet still inviting.
We especially enjoyed the daily movement schedule, which ranged from mindful to high-energy. We both loved the myofascial release class, a guided stretch and recovery session that felt like physical therapy meets medita-
Photo by AVABLU
Photo by Mikkel Vang
tion. The yoga sculpt class delivered a satisfying burn, while sunrise movement — a morning yoga and breathwork class often held outdoors facing the ocean — became our favorite ritual of the week. Moving in rhythm with the waves felt like a full-body reset.
Guests can also stop by Vitality Kauai, the resort’s on-property hub for IV therapy and medical aesthetics. I decided to try the bioavailable B12 infusion, and despite some initial jitters at the sight of the (surprisingly painless) needle, I was delighted by the surge of energy it brought to my day. A B12 boost post-yoga and prebeach, all with a fresh-squeezed juice in hand? In Hawaii? Honestly, it was heaven.
NOURISHMENT FROM NATURE
Across the property, food and drink are treated as natural extensions of wellness. Each of the six food and beverage venues celebrates Hawaii’s abundance with ingredients sourced from local farmers and fishers — a feat that’s harder to accomplish on the island than many realize.
For light bites and drinks, we gravitated toward Wailea Terrace, where open-air seating and sweeping ocean views made even a bowl of edamame feel elevated. Japanese-inspired shared plates were the perfect first taste after a long day of travel from Denver, but it was the creative mocktails that stole the show — bright blends of tropical fruits, herbs and botanicals that tasted like sunshine in a glass.
Dinner at 1 Kitchen was one of the most memorable meals of our trip. The restaurant’s farm-to-table philosophy shines in every dish, with many ingredients sourced from its rooftop organic garden of native canoe crops, herbs and citrus trees. Each morning, we also indulged in the insanely good breakfast buffet: a colorful spread of island fruit, fresh-pressed juices and made-to-order favorites that made it easy to linger a little longer over coffee. We’d heard mixed feedback about service speed, but our own experience was seamless — attentive, gracious and every bit five-star.
A PLACE THAT TEACHES BALANCE
When we weren’t exploring or in class, my mom and I spent lazy afternoons by the water. From our cabana, we read books and talked about everything and nothing at all. For once, time didn’t feel like something to manage.
Kauai is known for adventure, and during our stay, we often overheard fellow guests trading stories of Jurassic Park-style helicopter rides and epic boat tours along the coast. We chose a gentler pace, venturing off-property for a guided hike, a stroll through the Waipā Farmers Market and a playful golf cart tour at Princeville Makai Golf Club, where we caught one of the most breathtaking sunsets I’ve ever seen.
As we packed our rental car to leave, I realized that Hanalei Bay had quietly rewritten my understanding of wellness. It isn’t found in perfection — it’s in balance. In morning light and ocean rhythm. In sitting next to your mom and realizing that for the first time in a while, you don’t feel the need to be anywhere else. +
an extended residence in Europe — first in Paris, then Amsterdam and now in the lively Catalan capital — and our mission to more deeply experience our temporary home was off to a great start. There is an understandable impulse when traveling to pack one’s itinerary full of the infinite adventures that this world has to offer. But, while your eyes may behold vast wonders, the impressions tend to fuzz into a blur of monuments and museums and hikes. Rather than completing a checklist, travel can be an opportunity to gain meaningful perspective; a new and less harried daily routine; and bonds of new friendship that are difficult to achieve when flitting rapidly from place to place. This requires a commitment to remain in one locale for long enough to get a true sense of the area, to begin to embody its ethos.
When the café amb llet de civada (coffee with oat milk), my regular order, was already waiting for me as I approached the small counter at Xiloteca, Xavi the barista smiling broadly in welcome, I was warmed by the sense of belonging … or perhaps it was simply the summer heat. Just a week into a month-long sojourn in Barcelona and I had made a minor inroad as part of the El Born neighborhood. This was the third summer in a row that my daughter Violet and I had taken
To see a city in its various guises and over time — in the first light of dawn, during the bustling night, in a deluge, during local holidays — is to begin to glimpse its essential character and that of its denizens. Wandering through Paris during La Fête de la Musique with new friends we met at the climbing gym — on a solstice day when the streets were packed with musicians of every genre — was an unforgettable experience. It offered a chance to see my favorite city through a totally different lens than during a morning run, a relaxing evening at a café or hurried ride home on our Dance e-bikes to
T.J. VOBORI
BY
PHOTOS
escape a torrential downpour.
There are practical and wellness benefits derived from staying put. Having an Airbnb for two months is not only much more affordable, but also provides a steady home base for those days when you don’t want to do much other than the laundry and some reading and cooking, perhaps a slow stroll to say hello to the butcher always ready with a tasty morsel of something special. Instead of a rotating series of unpredictable hotel beds, you can get deep rest in what becomes your own bed, with all of the accoutrements of home at your disposal.
Fortunately, because you are not running from car to train to bus to plane, you are perhaps less in need of sleep — the typical week of travel amongst multiple cities can be completely exhausting.
Those aforementioned Dance e-bikes, along with Swapfiets in Amsterdam and Panot in Barcelona, have proved invaluable as reliable and cheap modes of transportation. Available only as monthly subscriptions, they allow you to have your own bike ready at your leisure, all maintenance and insurance included. There is perhaps no better way to really see and intuit the essence of a city than while navigating on a bike, especially in Amsterdam, where bikes are part of the fabric of the culture. It is an adventure in and of itself to blast around city streets — watching Violet have the confidence to navigate the Place de la Concorde during rush hour was a mixture of pride and terror — and gaining an understanding of the mores and codes of each city’s traffic quirks takes time.
Immersed in a neighborhood, you can observe the daily rhythms as the city awakens and goes about its days and nights, a flow that you will begin to inhabit. You will soon know when to arrive to get the freshest bread, which days the market has those absurdly ripe strawberries, when your favorite bartender has her shifts. If you are patient and friendly, your neighbors will begin to open up to you, inviting you into their home or directing you to their favorite restaurant, the proprietor of which will then in turn
send you to the establishments of his chef friends, in an upward spiral of gustatory delight. Soon enough, you can stop using Google Maps to find these places and can just follow your memory through the streets that you trod each day.
Although you are still transitory, at least until you eventually decide to move to Paris, you are less so in a way that allows for actual connections to form, whether it be with a cycling team or running club or with the witty kooks that run the art gallery underneath your apartment. In this way you will come to understand that your people are everywhere and in unlikely places, whether it be on the dock by the lake in Nkhata Bay or in a hair salon in Istanbul’s Beyoğlu neighborhood.
The purpose of travel being to transport and therefore transform, resist the temptation to go everywhere and just stay a while somewhere. The ensuing epiphany will be that being a local is irrelevant when we are all just citizens of the world. +
T.J. Vobori Attorney, Mediator, Writer alpenglowlaw.com
1. The Afro Fantasy Walking Tree Oracle by Monticue Connally
A tool for both reflection and ritual, this 50card oracle deck channels Afrofuturism and African spiritual traditions into a beautifully illustrated practice of connection. Each card, paired with original artwork by Jonathon Stalls, guides readers into the nine realms of being — from the physical and ancestral to the mythic and coincidental — offering pathways to deepen relationships with nature, spirit and self. $26.95 penguinrandomhouse.com
2. Remilia Green Goddess Hair Duo
Give your hair a spa-worthy treatment at home with this shampoo and conditioner set. Infused with rosemary, avocado and coconut oils, plus murumuru butter and keratin amino acids, it nourishes the scalp and leaves strands silky-smooth. Vegan, color-safe and clinically tested, it’s perfect for everyday indulgence — or a deeper cleanse and extra-soft results when you take a few extra minutes. $48 remiliahair.com
3. Lems Primal Zen Shoes
A balance of barefoot freedom and everyday style, these are lightweight, vegan shoes designed for comfort in motion. With a wide toe box, cushioned platform outsole and breathable cork footbed, the design delivers all-day ease — whether you’re on city streets or cruising through the airport. $130 lemsshoes.com
4. Realand Nutrition Recovery Plant Protein in Chocolate
Refuel after workouts with this smooth, chocolatey plant protein made from fava bean isolate. Each serving delivers 22 grams of protein and essential amino acids for muscle recovery — without the gritty texture of typical plant proteins. Vegan, gluten-free and ethically sourced, it’s a clean, indulgent way to nourish your body while supporting sustainable farming practices. $47.60 realandnutrition.com
5. Iles Formula Rinseless Root Refresh
Developed by celebrity stylist Wendy Iles, this liquid alternative to traditional dry shampoo refreshes roots without the powdery residue or dull cast — even on dark hair. The vegan, cruelty-free formula absorbs excess oil while supporting a balanced scalp microbiome, avoiding the buildup that can clog follicles and
contribute to hair loss. Lightweight and gentle, it rinses out easily with your next wash for a clean reset between shampoos. $48 ilesformula.com
6. GoodCook 12-Piece Healthy Ceramic Titanium-Infused Cookware Set
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7. Cozy Earth Complete Ribbed Terry Bath Bundle
Upgrade your daily routine with this thoughtfully curated set — two bath sheets, two bath towels, two hand towels and four washcloths — crafted from a plush cottonbamboo blend. The ribbed terry texture feels luxuriously thick and soft, wrapping you in warmth the moment you step out of the shower. $358 cozyearth.com
8. Cole Barrier Repair Cream
This lightweight, fragrance-free moisturizer strengthens the skin barrier while boosting hydration, calming redness and smoothing texture. With peptides, antioxidants and lamellar technology, it leaves skin resilient, plump and visibly refined. $46 coleskin.com
9. Ghost Democracy Transparent Gentle Skin Exfoliating Cleanser for Face
Refresh and balance your skin with this gentle, chemical exfoliant. Formulated with glycolic and mandelic acids, willow bark extract and niacinamide, it removes makeup, impurities and excess oil while keeping skin hydrated and smooth. Sulfate-free, fragrancefree and suitable for all skin types, it brightens and refines texture without irritation — perfect for simplifying your routine while boosting radiance and confidence. $45 ghostdemocracy.com
10. Scoria Natural Cork Roller
Crafted from 100% naturally harvested cork, this eco-friendly roller delivers deeptissue relief while keeping things clean and sustainable. Its antimicrobial surface soothes sore muscles and improves circulation without foam or fillers. Whether in a compact size for targeted tension or the longer version for fullleg release, it’s a stylish, conscious draw for recovery day — and every day after. $39 scoriaworld.com
GLOW UP, NATURALLY
The Holistic Facial for Aging Gracefully
“You’ve lived a happy life,” says Chrisy Brown, an esthetician at Vail Valley Wellness in Avon, Colorado, as she studied my face, “I can tell by the fine lines around your eyes.”
At 42 years old, I’ve avoided fillers or injectables. My skin care staples are sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat, along with a nightly skin care routine and good genes. But despite my best efforts, time is slowly taking a toll. Sigh. Subtle lines on my face, not-so-subtle grays against my honey-brown hair and a muscle tweak from a mundane activity. This epiphany is not something I take lightly.
Yet in the same note, I realize that aging is a privilege not everyone experiences. And so, I’m embracing a middle ground: mindful aging — the art of getting older with intention. As someone who lives a healthy and wholesome lifestyle, I avoid putting unnecessary toxins in my body, which is how I stumbled upon Qi beauty.
Qi beauty is a needle-free, holistic treatment that uses Static Magnetic Field (SMF) therapy to support skin health, soften fine lines, improve circu -
lation, reduce inflammation and restore vitality to the skin. Over 1,500 24-karat gold-plated magnetic microbeads are placed on your face in a customized matrix pattern, providing immediate results and cumulative benefits.
Originally developed to treat wounds and accelerate healing, SMF therapy has been studied in clinical trials in Australia (where Qi beauty originated) and shown to influence cell size, shape and membrane structure. It takes several treatments every two to three weeks to change the behavior of the skin, followed by a maintenance routine every four to six weeks. Translation? It helps your skin look healthier, plumper and more alive from the inside out.
Skeptical? I was, too.
After a consultation and a calming cleanse, Brown began mapping the magnetic matrix across my face. Each treatment is customized, but starts with the same three points down the center of your face that correlate with Traditional Chinese Medicine. Beads sat in the indentations of my fine lines, around my eyes and clustered on
the scar on my left cheek. The beads rested for 20 minutes; no tingling or tightening, just deep relaxation.
When she removed them and slathered on moisturizer, I peeked in the mirror.
The change was subtle, but real. The fine lines were softer. Tiny indentations under my eyes where the beads had been were evidence of immediate plumpness in my skin. My face was flushed, like I had just returned from a run, even though I hadn’t moved. It was due to an increase in blood flow, which delivers fresh oxygen and nutrients to the skin while sweeping away waste.
“Qi beauty doesn’t give you 100% smooth, porcelain skin,” Brown explained. “It gives you skin that looks healthy and radiant. You’ll still have wrinkles, but we’ll soften them and they’ll be beautiful.”
Later that day, I bumped into a friend outside a coffee shop. She looked over to me and said, “Your skin looks amazing.” That was after just one treatment.
No one asked if I had done anything. No one thought I looked different — just fresh and glowing. Like I had slept great, drank my eight glasses of water and had no stress, ever, while raising little kids and running my own business.
Youth isn’t something we chase; it’s something we consciously nurture. For me, Qi beauty has helped restore my skin to its natural vitality, enhancing what’s already there. Because mindful aging isn’t about erasing age — it’s about honoring the story it tells. +
Jennifer Weintraub Storyteller + Stylist jenniferweintraub.com
THE YAMAS + NIYAMAS
An Ancient Path to Modern Burnout Recovery
Burnout is one of the most pressing health issues in our society today, with studies showing it has a significant impact on millennials. As mental health becomes increasingly prominent in the pop culture landscape, yoga practitioners are taking the time to contextualize their mental health within the practice.
Citta (the mind) is the true forest of the practice, where we learn to navigate a treacherous inner landscape in order to rise into a lighter, clearer awareness. As Patanjali describes in The Yoga Sutras, the purpose of yoga is to transcend these fluctuations of the mind. His globally renowned book was the catalyst for my own recovery journey, transforming my relationship with yoga from a mere physical practice into a philosophical framework that now structures my life. It helped me shift from feeling like an overworked, undervalued cog in the machine to a purpose-driven, loved spirit — an integral part of the collective.
Here’s how I’ve used Patanjali’s yamas and niyamas — the first two of his eight limbs of yoga — as a catalyst and framework for my burnout recovery.
YAMAS
The yamas address our ethical standards and sense of integrity — essentially, how we show up in community. When reflecting on how to work with the first yama, ahimsa (nonviolence), I chose to take a pause. Continuing to show up in my community haphazardly and ungrounded no longer felt safe, prudent or wise.
Taking medication was my practice of satya (truthfulness) — being honest with myself about what I needed in order to show up well. After years of chasing wellness hacks to bypass the true magnitude of my situation, wisdom settled in. I finally understood that the hard work of therapy and medication was not an admission of failure but a proclamation of courage, radical acceptance and honesty.
Stepping back embodied asteya (non-stealing). In a world that demands constant visibility and performance, it can feel like we must always be “on.” But life is not a performance. It’s okay not to be okay. In these moments, it’s essential to remember that a baseline of wellness is needed to meaningfully take up space in community. Tending to your own garden before giving yourself to the world isn’t selfish — it preserves energy for both you and others. Don’t fear missing out. What’s meant for you will not pass you by.
Abstaining from sex was a personal expression of brahmacharya (celibacy or wise use of energy). I chose to focus on healing and reconnecting with myself before engaging in intimacy. It felt safe and aligned.
Finally, aparigraha (non-possessiveness) meant putting aside the pressures of worldly pursuits to prioritize my wellness. That wasn’t an easy decision. Modern life often dictates our values for us. But choosing to define my own required bravery — and it continues to be an act of reclamation.
NIYAMAS
The niyamas guide us in self-discipline and spiritual observance — how we care for and relate to ourselves on the path. This is where I paused to reassess my life, beliefs and goals, creating systems of daily rituals and practices that offered both structure and spiritual grounding.
Saucha (cleanliness) began with cleansing my inner world. My thoughts were on a constant loop of stress, anxiety and self-invalidation. To purify this mental chatter, I turned to daily mantras, mindfulness meditations, therapy and medication — tools that helped me move through the friction of my mind and begin to befriend it.
Samtosa (contentment) asked me to accept my life as it was, not as I wished it to be. At some point, you have to simply get on with the show and choose to love who and what you are. The keyword in this observance is choice. I began practicing gratitude not as a trend but as a lifeline, learning to see sufficiency in my current state.
Through tapas (discipline or spiritual heat), I connected to my body. I incorporated fasting and daily asana (poses) as sacred rituals — practices that brought my physical form into sharper focus and served as a reminder of my resilience and presence.
Svadhyaya (self-study and study of spiritual texts) became an anchor. Engaging daily with yogic and Buddhist scriptures helped affirm and root my evolving beliefs in something deeper. This wasn’t about abstract “woo-woo” — it was about cultivating wisdom dense in meaning, practical in application and expansive enough to move me from seeker to grounded practitioner.
Isvara pranidhana (surrender to a higher power) taught me to release both my joy and my grief. Life offers us both. I have found that surrendering both that which makes me cry and smile instills a sense of peace and certainty that cannot be rivaled. No matter who or what you are surrendering to, the practice itself is liberating. It softens the ego and opens the heart. +
Brooke Doaks Writer, MA Yoga Studies, Yoga Teacher @yoginibrookedoaks themindbodybodymind.blog
YOGA + THE ART OF AGING WELL
Adapt Your Practice for Lasting Vitality
Staying active as you age requires moving smarter, recovering better and keeping your body in top condition. “Yoga to Thrive” is a comprehensive practice combining various yoga styles (vinyasa, yin and self-awakening yoga) to help you age gracefully, preserve your range of motion and avoid injuries. Its guiding principles are:
Body Awareness: When practicing yoga, pay attention to sensations to con-
nect with your body's wisdom. Embrace your present experience as it is, remaining curious without judgment.
Mobility + Flexibility: Mobility helps prevent stiffness. Regular stretching and myofascial release can improve flexibility and movement patterns, enabling you to maintain your range of motion.
Strength: Muscle mass naturally decreases with age. Focusing on strength in your yoga practice helps maintain muscle, bone density and joint stability. The combination of strength and flexibility promotes stability and optimal alignment for ease in movement.
Balance: Developing balance improves functional movement and helps prevent injuries by strengthening stabilizer muscles and enhancing proprioception (your sense of location in space). As a result, you’re more likely to catch yourself if you trip.
BY
PHOTOS
JOHN BUSCH
Carrie Lehtonen
The following practice aims to enhance overall well-being by combining intentional movements with strength-building and balance.
SAVASANA BODY SCAN:
Lie on your back and do a body scan by focusing on each body part, starting with your feet. When you reach your head, gently rock it side to side. Then bring your head back to center and shrug your shoulders up and down. Hug one knee toward your chest, rotate your foot in one direction, then the other a few times. Release and repeat on the other side. Finally, hug both knees in, rock to a seated position or roll onto one side.
TABLE TOP WITH HIP + RIB CIRCLES:
Start on all fours, with your shoulders over your wrists and hips over your knees. Press your hips back, then circle them around, bringing your ribs forward. Complete a few circles in one direction, then repeat in the opposite direction a few times.
STANDING LEG RAISES:
Stand with both feet on the floor or with your right foot on a block. Flex your left foot and lift your leg out to the side. Pulse your leg up while keeping your toes flexed toward your knee. Complete about 10 to 15 leg lifts on one side and then switch sides. To make this more challenging, you can use a workout band around your ankles.
WARRIOR 1 WITH CHEST EXPANSION:
Step your left foot back with your toes slightly turned in. With your right toes pointing straight ahead, bend your right knee and raise your arms up by your ears. Press into the outside edge of your left foot to deepen your lunge. If your right knee extends beyond your ankle, move your foot forward. On an exhale, interlace your hands at your low back. Press your palms together and knuckles down toward your left heel. Lift your chest and widen your collarbones.
5 HUMBLE WARRIOR:
With your hands still interlaced at your low back and your chest lifted, hinge at your hips to bring your torso inside your right leg. Keep hugging your right hip toward your midline, reach your knuckles toward the ceiling and your head toward the floor.
6 STANDING SPLITS WITH LEG LIFTS:
Release your hands to the floor or onto a block, then lift your left leg. Level your hips by turning all five toes toward the floor. Flex your foot and push through your heel to engage your leg. Pulse your leg upward toward the ceiling 10 to 15 times, then turn your toes to the left and pulse again. Step your left foot to meet your right in a forward fold. Come to standing and repeat Warrior 1 through Standing Splits with your left foot forward.
7 DEER POSE:
From seated on your mat, bring your right shin parallel to the top of your mat and flex your toes toward your knee. Bend your left knee and position it behind your right heel. Slowly hinge forward, lowering your torso over your right knee or shin. The stretch will be more intense the further your torso is over your shin. Rest your head on your hands, a pillow or a block, relax your shoulders and hold for four minutes, as long as you don’t feel any pain in your knee. Lift back up, switch legs and repeat on the other side.
8 SAVASANA:
Lie on your back on your mat. Notice any lingering sensations in your body. If you find that some areas of your body can't relax, tense everything up by making fists and actively pressing your whole body into your mat, then release. If the tension remains, try again. Stay in savasana for at least a few minutes before moving on with your day.
FINDING STRENGTH IN THE SURF
How One Sea Wellness Helps Women Embody Confidence, Connection + Flow
PJ Brown, founder of One Sea Wellness, is dedicated to sharing her profound passion and healing practices in holistic wellness, yoga and movement through her surf therapy retreats. Brown’s participants embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery, finding belonging and empowerment both in the ocean and within their women’s group. She believes life is an ocean; each set of waves is a unique adventure waiting to be embraced and explored.
“The ocean has always been a big part of my life,” says Brown. “I felt safe to be there but that feeling got robbed of me when I was in a domestic violence relationship while living in Costa Rica.”
In the depths of that heartbreak, Brown discovered surf therapy through the Groundswell Community Project, a global surf therapy organization, and with it a way to heal, breathe and belong again.
From survivor to advocate, Brown has built a multifaceted practice as a mental health therapist, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) practitioner and surf therapy facilitator.
Through her business, One Sea Wellness, she walks alongside women from all backgrounds, helping them reclaim their strength both in the current and on the waves. Since founding One Sea Wellness in 2021, she has guided more than 30 retreats and single-day workshops in ocean and river surf therapy. As a certified facilitator of the Groundswell Community Project’s surf therapy curriculum, Brown grounds her work in a proven framework — while weaving in her own story, expertise and passions to create retreats that are uniquely her own.
Brown honors Mother Ocean as a feminine spirit. “The salient makeup of
the ocean is very similar to the salient makeup of the embryo. So when we invite ourselves to go into the ocean to play, we take part in a rebirthing experience,” she says. For Brown, turning to water has been a crucial part of her life both after leaving an abusive relationship and in her postpartum time. “If I didn't convince myself to go to the ocean or river, I wouldn't have the strength I have now,” she adds.
Her upcoming surf retreats in Costa Rica offer women unique experiences to play, connect and flow. “When we go into the ocean, we naturally feel a sense of fear of the unknown,” Brown says. The trauma that is stored in the body will resurface and through therapy, participants are able to rewrite their feelings of insecurity to positivity and belonging.
After surf sessions, women gather on shore to affirm one another with statements like, “ I am resilient. I am safe. I belong. ” In being witnessed by a supportive community, each woman has space to recognize her own growth.
This embodied practice cultivates an inclusive environment for women of every shape and size — an especially powerful shift within the male-dominated world of surfing.
This winter and spring 2026, One Sea Wellness will host two transformative retreats. “She Is Rising" blends the playfulness of acro yoga and surfing, inviting women to lift one another up — both physically and emotionally. "Waves of Becoming” offers a sacred space to rest, restore and embrace the flow of womanhood. Each retreat weaves together movement practices such as yoga and Thai massage, therapeutic workshops and surf therapy sessions. Yet above all, they cultivate what Brown calls the most essential element: a community of supportive women and the lifelong connections that grow from it.
Brown is inspired to create mindful surf therapy retreats like these because she once felt like she had
nobody to turn to when she was in a difficult place. “I believe that healing can only happen so much cognitively, but through somatic practices we are able to move feelings through the body,” Brown says. “By doing nature or surf therapy you are being witnessed by something that is always there. You build an accessible relationship with Mother Earth and Mother Ocean that you know is reliable and develop a space where you can find relief.”
Brown lives in Gunnison, Colorado with her husband and son, where she teaches river surf therapy, yoga and offers counseling services. You can learn more about her upcoming retreats and offerings at oneseawellness.com. +
Kaitlin Emig Writer @sunflower_lion
PJ Brown
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3. Ombraz Refugio Armless Sunglasses
Named after the Italian word for “shelter,” this new style from Ombraz pairs high-performance design with a laid-back feel. These armless shades feature integrated nose pads and optional side and nose shields, inspired by retro wraparounds and built for big-sun adventures. $195 ombraz.com
4. Poc Obex Connect Helmet
Blending safety with seamless communication, the Obex Connect brings high-quality audio straight into your helmet. Chat with your crew on the mountain, link up with groups up to eight or switch to open mode to connect with others on the slopes — all while streaming music or taking calls. $600 pocsports.com
5. Ruffwear Vert Coverall Dog Snow Suit
Keep your pup warm, dry, and ready for winter adventures with this insulated, waterproof coverall. Designed with four-way stretch for freedom of movement, easy-zip entry and a leash portal for harness compatibility, it’s built to handle snow days and chilly trails alike. $170 ruffwear.com
6. Icebreaker Women’s Merino 260 Tech Long Sleeve Turtleneck
Perfect for skiing, snowshoeing or just braving winter, this Merino wool turtleneck is soft, warm and naturally odor-resistant. It keeps you cozy when it’s cold, cool when it’s not and moves with you thanks to gusseted underarms, flatlock seams and offset shoulders — your go-to base layer for chilly months. $135 icebreaker.com
7. Tailwind Recovery Mix
A go-to for refueling after big efforts, Tailwind’s revamped Recovery Mix now packs more protein, more leucine and a smoother texture for faster muscle repair. Available in a new strawberry flavor, it’s a tasty, easy way to recharge after big hikes, long runs or ski days. $55.99 (20-serving pouch) tailwindnutrition.com
8. Head Kore 100 Ti Freeride Skis
Light, agile and powerful, these skis are built for skiers who want to chase powder lines and charge through mixed terrain with confidence. Strong enough to hold an edge, yet playful enough for all-day exploring. $799 head.com
9. Gorewear Concurve Windstopper
Insulated Jacket + Concurve Thermo Hybrid Tights
Built for crisp mornings and frosty miles, this insulated kit keeps you warm without weighing you down. Wind- and water-resistant with breathable stretch zones, the jacket adapts as you move — venting heat when you’re pushing hard and locking it in when the chill sets in. The tights balance warmth and mobility with body-mapped insulation and breathable panels where you need them most. You’ll be ready for everything from pre-dawn runs to all-day outdoor pursuits. $260 + $180 gorewear.com
10. Yeti Lowlands Blanket
Turn winter and spring outings into cozy base camps with this all-terrain blanket. Its insulated, supremely soft interior keeps you warm by the fire, at a snowy tailgate or on a frosty backcountry hike, while the waterproof utility layer shields against snow and moisture. Built to repel dirt, burrs and pet hair, it’s perfect for sharing with your dog during outdoor adventures. $200 yeti.com
DOG JORING
Ski, Sprint + Bond with Your Pup
Everyone adopted a doodle (or two) during the pandemic — now it’s time to give that adventure pup a purpose and some extra winter fun and exercise. Even better? You can channel all that energy into dog skijoring, a winter sport that’s equal parts fitness, bonding and outdoor adventure. Best of all, once you’re geared up, skijoring is usually free — no tickets or passes required, just you and Rover in the wild.
Skijoring might be the coolest winter sport you’ve never tried — or even heard of — but it’s been around for over a century. A version using horses even appeared as an Olympic demonstration sport in 1928. Nearly a century later, modern skijoring comes with groomed trails, specialized gear and designer-ready dogs who are as stylish as they are strong.
The sport is basically cross-country skiing meets canine-powered adventure. Its name comes from the Norwegian term for “ski driving,” and the premise is simple: a dog (usually 35-plus pounds) harnessed up helps pull you across snowy trails. All you need is a pair of cross-country skis, a proper pulling harness and a four-legged friend who’s ready to run. From there, there are tons of accessories — retractable leads, padded waist belts, booties for dogs — to make the experience even more comfortable and stylish.
TOP COLORADO TRAILS FOR TAIL-WAGGING ADVENTURES
Ready to get those paws in the powder? Crested Butte, Colorado is more than just a ski town — it’s a snow-loving pup’s paradise. The Crested Butte Nordic Center rolls out the white carpet for dogs, with trails where tails wag as much as skis glide. From in-town romps at Town Ranch, Riverbend Trail and the Rec Path (leashes required here) to the
playful sprint of Kapushion Alley (no pass needed, just good manners and cleanup), there are plenty of ways for your four-legged friend to join in the winter fun. For a little extra adventure, snag a dog pass (starting at just $8) and head to pup-approved classics like Pooch’s Paradise, Beaver Trail or the long glide out Mike’s Mile.
If your dog’s nose is leading the way farther afield? Crested Butte is ringed with snowy roads perfect for free-spirited Nordic outings together. Explore the wide-open spaces of Slate River Road, romp along Washington Gulch Road or chase mountain views on Gothic/Schofield Pass Road, Cement Creek Road and Brush Creek Road. These routes may not come with trail passes or groomed corduroy, but they make up for it with endless sniffs, big views and boundless mountain-town dog joy.
Posh pooch, no problem. Bernese Boulevard at the Aspen Golf Course and Labrador Lane at the Snowmass Golf Course have beginner/intermediate trails open to dogs. The Aspen Snowmass Nordic Trail System has more than 60 miles of groomed trails spread across Aspen, Snowmass and Basalt — numer-
GEAR UP FOR SKIJORING
If you’re new to the sport, the basic setup for your pooch is pretty simple: you’ll need a pulling harness for your dog, a bungee-style towline and a waist belt to keep your hands free while you ski. Companies like Ruffwear make all three pieces designed specifically for skijoring, so you and your pup stay connected comfortably and safely on the trail.
ruffwear.com
ous are perfect for all levels of skijoring. Grand County, Colorado is also a dream destination for skijoring with the dog. Between the groomed Nordic trails in the mountains, meet-up groups and lessons at places like Devil’s Thumb Ranch in Granby or Winter Park Nordic Center, you can find beginner-friendly options just about anywhere along the Front Range or the High Country. Think wide-open powdery trails, crisp mountain air and your pup pulling you across an idyllic winter landscape. It’s dog sledding without the sleigh — just you, Fido and the snow. +
Julie Bielenberg Writer @juliebielenberg
Counting More Than Steps: How Wearables Can Help (or Hinder) Your Health
BY BETSY WELCH
From step counts to sleep stages, heart rate variability to blood sugar spikes, wearable devices are giving us a front-row seat to what’s happening inside our bodies. Strapped to wrists, slipped onto fingers or wrapped around our biceps, wearables like the Oura Ring or Whoop strap promise insight in the quest for better health. But numbers alone don’t tell the whole story. At Vail Health, wellness experts blend wearable data with nuanced human care to create a fuller picture of well-being.
Healthspan vs. Lifespan: A Wellness Approach
Unlike lifespan, which measures how long you live, healthspan focuses on the quality of life — helping people remain active, strong and mentally sharp as they age. At Vail Health, specialists in exercise physiology, nutrition, functional medicine and behavioral health encourage a customized approach for each person’s healthspan journey. Setting a baseline — through blood work, fitness testing, and metabolic and movement screenings — helps identify issues and tailor a plan.
Another essential component? Wearables. Data from straps, rings and monitors can connect day-to-day choices with long-term goals.
“We believe in a multifaceted approach with exercise, nutrition and functional medicine all working together,” says Josiah Middaugh, Vail Health’s lead exercise physiologist. “Wearables give us objective data and valuable insights into training load, recovery, exercise intensity and sleep metrics.”
That data can reveal how sleep, stress or alcohol affect heart rate variability, or how specific foods impact blood sugar in real time. Custom heart-rate zones also help users fine-tune exercise intensity.
Still, Middaugh stresses that the numbers are only part of the picture. “Perception of effort, fatigue and recovery is just as important,” he says. “The technology is there to help us learn more about our bodies — to help us tune in, not tune out.”
When Wearables Provide Insight
For many, wearables like the Oura Ring, Whoop strap, Apple Watch or continuous glucose monitor offer tangible feedback about how daily choices affect the body.
Dr. Eliza Klearman, a functional medicine provider at Vail Health, says wearables are especially useful when people “tag” lifestyle choices — logging alcohol, stress or travel — to see patterns.
“Logging things like food, alcohol intake, travel, stress or illness, so they can truly see how lifestyle choices affect biometrics like sleep, recovery and readiness — that’s when the data becomes deeply personalized and actionable,” Klearman says.
Christine Pierangeli, a nutrition therapist at Vail Health, says wearables can reveal how food and energy needs line up.
“I had a client who was constantly tired in his workouts,” she says. “When we looked at his Oura data, we saw he was under-eating for his daily burn. Adjusting his intake made a huge difference in his energy.”
Wearables can uncover subtle trends — like underfueling or early signs of overtraining — and help people connect the dots between choices and outcomes. Their real power lies in making those insights actionable.
The Slippery Slope of Too Much Data
While wearables are powerful tools, experts say they aren’t infallible — or right for
everyone. Without guidance, numbers can sometimes create more stress than clarity.
“People can get so fixated on a sleep score that they actually make their sleep worse,” Klearman says. “If the data starts creating anxiety, that’s when we encourage stepping back and focusing on how you feel — your mood, energy and focus — rather than chasing a number.”
Pierangeli agrees. “There’s a time and place to be data-free. One client went on his honeymoon and left his Oura Ring at home, which I thought was brilliant. Sometimes you just need to live without metrics.”
Middaugh, a professional triathlete and XTERRA World Champion, has been using wearables since the 1990s. Yet he’s firm that no single metric should be taken in isolation.
“Not everything that counts can be counted, and not everything that can be counted counts,” he says.
Finding the Balance
Used with intention, wearables can help practitioners spot dips in sleep, readiness or HRV. “It gives us a chance to share strategies and offer support,” Pierangeli says.
But across the board, practitioners stress that technology should enhance, not override, intuition.
“Wearables can gamify exercise and promote adherence,” Middaugh says. “But the goal is to use them as one piece of the puzzle, not the entire picture.”
Wearables can’t replace wisdom, but they can spark insight. Used with curiosity and balance, they remind us to move more, rest deeper and pay attention to what our bodies are telling us. As the Vail Health team emphasizes, the numbers are there to guide — not define — us.
WHERE TREES TAKE ROOT, COMMUNITIES THRIVE
Denver Nonprofit Works to Improve Resident Health Through Urban Forestry
Imagine a world without trees. If you live in a mountain community, it may be inconceivable, but if you live in the city, it may feel like a reality. One Denver nonprofit, The Park People, works to ensure we can all live among trees and enjoy their benefits.
“Our mission is to work with communities to plant trees and improve parks for a healthy, resilient future,” says Mackenzie Sanders, communications manager.
The organization — which started more than 50 years ago as a group of park enthusiasts who planted trees on a volunteer basis — has grown into a nonprofit that runs five programs promoting the planting of trees in Denver’s parks and communities. It has planted more than 60,000 trees since its inception.
“What started out as a volunteer
network has expanded into a citywide effort,” Sanders says. The ultimate goal? To create “a vibrant Denver where all residents have access to the benefits that trees and parks provide.”
Most of us already know that trees beautify an area, provide shade and improve air quality, but they offer many other benefits, as well.
“Trees can serve to lower the temperature of an area by 15 to 20 degrees,” she explains. “A single tree in its lifetime can offset almost 7,000 pounds of carbon dioxide, uptake over 50 pounds of pollution and intercept over 40,000 gallons of storm water.”
That means that in addition to direct health benefits, such as improved air quality, trees can help cool one’s home and lower the costs resulting from air
conditioning on hot summer days. They can mitigate and prevent flooding and the repair costs from flood damage and mold (as well as mold-related illness).
Not only can trees improve one’s physical health and save money, but they provide homes for birds and wildlife, which then offer benefits of nature, even within the city.
Trees also offer indirect benefits, from boosting mental health to fostering stronger, healthier and more vibrant communities.
Research shows hospital patients have a higher recovery rate when in a room that overlooks trees or parks than those who look out to a cityscape or have no window in their room at all, Sanders says.
“Trees help reduce the ‘broken window’ effect,” she says. “When you go
into a neighborhood and you see someone planting a garden, planting a tree or watering a tree … that is a subconscious connection that the people living here care about their community.”
“The term ‘tree equity’ measures how trees are promoting the equity of the lives of people,” Sanders adds, which is why the organization works to ensure the majority of trees planted under its programs go to low canopy, low-income neighborhoods.
Its Denver Digs Trees program offers 1,000 or more trees to Denverites for free or low-cost each spring. The organization trains community foresters who help residents select the best tree for each location and teaches them how to plant and care for the trees.
“Our goal with that program is to promote not just the planting of trees on private property, but the stewardship of those trees and green spaces directly within those communities,” she says. “The fact is, if you don’t plant a tree cor-
rectly, you’ve already lost it. Trees take a long time to grow. If you’re planting a tree incorrectly and you keep having to start over, you’re putting off all the benefits a tree can provide.”
In addition to Denver Digs Trees, the organization’s programs include Community Forester, which, in addition to teaching community members how to plant, prune and care for trees, teaches them community engagement and leadership skills; Mile High Tree Champions, which works with companies that invest both funding and volunteer hours to enhance Denver’s tree canopy; TreeForce, which trains the previously incarcerated to become urban foresters; and Park Legacy, which facilitates the planting of memorial trees in Denver’s parks.
Sanders and her family recently planted a tree in Washington Park through the Park Legacy program. They chose to plant an oak tree in honor of her grandfather when he passed. Sanders visits the tree every few months. She loves watch-
ing the tree grow and begin to shade picnic tables and a playground. She sits in its shade and remembers not only her grandfather, but also a sycamore so huge, it shaded her grandparents’ yard when she was a child.
“I loved that tree,” she says. Sanders thinks of her family each time she sees a sycamore. And, now, she thinks of her grandfather each time she visits his oak tree. “I would say that’s a full circle moment.”
Whether a tree is planted in a low canopy neighborhood, in a park or in memoriam, every tree contributes to the city’s urban canopy, offering numerous benefits to individuals and the community.
“We want Denver to be a really beautiful place where everyone feels comfortable being outdoors,” Sanders says. +
Lu Snyder Writer
REDEFINING MENOPAUSE
Practical Wisdom for Embracing Change, Finding Balance + Living Well
Menopause can be a difficult transition, and a historic lack of information has often left women unprepared. It doesn’t have to be that way. With the right guidance, care and information, women can find comfort and fulfillment in this new phase of life.
“Aging and the menopause transition are a challenge to us physically and emotionally, professionally and within our families — it doesn’t happen in a vacuum,” says Dr. Rochelle Bernstein, an OB/GYN based in Frisco, Colorado. “It’s important to gather the right information so you can make decisions individualized to you.”
Fortunately, menopause is having a transition of its own, as more information and resources become available. But with the spotlight comes a slew of misinformation and products touting instant relief for all your symptoms. It can be confusing and overwhelming. Even many doctors are unprepared to guide their
patients through this time, leaving many women feeling desperate and alone.
This is one reason Bernstein, who has spent decades caring for women of all ages, opened a practice, Purely Menopause, focused on helping women get the information and tools they need to navigate perimenopause, menopause and sexual health into their later years.
As Bernstein points out, most women will spend half their lives in menopause and each person’s experience is vastly different.
“My number one goal when I meet with patients is to give them enough information to move forward on their own and return as needed,” she says.
Jennifer McGeorge, a certified nurse practitioner based in Montrose, Colorado, also works with women going through menopause at her practice, Oasis Menopause Care. Though more information is available now than ever before, much more research is needed, she says, and finding a practitioner that is trained and knowledgeable in menopause is still not easy.
“Our mission is to empower women to feel healthy, strong and supported,” she says. “One of the most important things for women to know is they don’t have to suffer in silence. That’s been our menopause tradition and that’s really changing.”
EMPOWERED AGING
We asked Bernstein and McGeorge to offer some wisdom for women as they enter and move through this life transition so that they can find comfort, health and happiness within their changing bodies.
Ideally, your practitioner should be certified by the Menopause Society, they advise. Visit the Menopause Society website to find a practitioner near you. In some places, such as Colorado’s Western Slope, there may be few, if any, providers, but some practitioners, Bernstein and McGeorge included, offer telehealth
Jennifer McGeorge at her practice in Colorado.
visits to reach patients outside their geographic area, even in another state.
Remember: just because a celebrity promises relief from a product doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Learn to discern between evidence-based information and false claims.
With so many symptoms — from hot flashes and night sweats, to lethargy and joint pain, to brain fog and memory issues — it’s no wonder women often feel so discouraged and susceptible to products that claim quick relief. Both Bernstein and McGeorge stress the importance of focusing on all aspects of your health to find a mind-body balance that will carry you into your later years.
“Medications and hormone therapy are really a small part of self-care through menopause and the rest of our lives,” Bernstein says. This means a focus on exercise, sleep, nutrition, yoga, meditation and the like. “There is no magic medicine — whether it’s hormones or supplements. If a product promises
revitalization … I would question the product and the provider prescribing it.”
It also helps to take menopause as an opportunity to slow down, she says. “We spend decades chasing our careers, and caring for our partners and our children. The menopause transition is almost a gift. It happens at a time when, generally, it’s okay to prioritize yourself. You don’t have to do as much as you did when you were younger.”
That doesn’t mean you need to give up on your adventures and athletic goals, though.
“By understanding the physiological changes of menopause, you can actually be stronger,” says Bernstein, an avid athlete herself. “You can continue to compete and you can excel, but the way you accomplish that needs to change.” +
Lu Snyder
Writer
WE SPEND DECADES CHASING OUR CAREERS, AND CARING FOR OUR PARTNERS AND OUR CHILDREN. THE MENOPAUSE TRANSITION IS ALMOST A GIFT. IT HAPPENS AT A TIME WHEN, GENERALLY, IT’S OKAY TO PRIORITIZE YOURSELF.
DR. ROCHELLE BERNSTEIN
SOUND BODY, SOUND MIND
Inside a Trailblazing Musicians' Wellness Program
Elite athletes regularly turn to sports psychology and targeted physical exercises to improve their performance, yet when it comes to musicians, the same practices might sound a little odd. After all, they’re not running hundreds of yards during a game; they predominantly sit and play. Yet, studies estimate that 90% of professional musicians eventually suffer from playing-related pain or injuries due to misuse or overuse, not to mention hearing decline. Furthermore, many report anxiety or depression.
That’s why James Brody, associate professor of oboe at the University of Colorado Boulder, launched the Musicians’ Wellness Program (MWP) 25 years ago within Boulder’s College of Music. Back then, it was groundbreaking — the first of its kind to help musicians prevent and recover from injuries, as well as
maintain mental health.
“It became glaringly obvious this was a necessity when students came to me with injuries 30 years ago,” he says, comparing it to athletic training. “When a Buffs football player gets injured, Coach Deion Sanders enlists a team of professionals to ensure a swift recovery.”
MWP employs somatic techniques like the Alexander Technique and body mapping to improve posture, movement and overall well-being by changing maladaptive, habitual patterns of tension and movement. For example, violinists become slightly rotated to the left, since that’s the arm fingering and supporting the instrument.
“If there's no education provided and no awareness from the musicians themselves in terms of what they're doing with their bodies while they're playing their instrument, then it can lead to a lot
of issues down the line,” says Emily Gee, MWP’s new program director. “Alexander Technique and body mapping work to help the musician understand truly where their body is anatomically, and then how that relates to their ability to play their instrument or to sing, and how all those parts work together.”
Other classes and interventions include counseling, psychiatric services, group therapy, nervous system regulation, decibel awareness and hearing precautions and exercises for breathing and vocal health.
“It's not just about one class that people can elect to take; it's really about bringing this sense of a supportive health and wellness environment into the entire college,” she says. “We’re educating on strategies for health promotion, injury prevention and mind-body tools that support the students to maintain a healthy body and a healthy mind for life.”
Nicole Peters, who graduated in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in flute performance, has had severe scoliosis, making breathing difficult since she was 7. She tried releasing tension on her own but still experienced shortness of breath.
“Everything was shifted, and my whole breathing mechanism was scrunched,” Peters says. She began taking MWP classes her freshman year.
“It’s been life-saving for me, and I think it’s worth everyone taking a look whether you’re at the computer or playing a musical instrument,” she says. “It’s worth considering how you're using your body because there are so many injuries that are preventable.”
STUDIES ESTIMATE THAT 90% OF PROFESSIONAL MUSICIANS
EVENTUALLY SUFFER FROM PLAYINGRELATED PAIN OR INJURIES DUE TO MISUSE OR OVERUSE.
Brody, who retired July 31, 2025, after 39 years of teaching, built a legacy that has helped countless performers like Peters increase longevity in their fields, as well as resilience and well-being. Five years after he launched MWP, the National Association of Schools of Music issued a mandate for music programs to address wellness. But to this day, there are no specific requirements or ways of enforcing it, Gee says. Brody’s pioneering program formed a curriculum based on the knowledge that peak performance begins, continues and ends with how musicians care for themselves.
“The more comfortable musicians can be — the more relaxed and truly in touch with their sensory system and that mind-body connection practice — the more that they'll be able to connect with their audience, as well,” Gee says.
While a certain amount of adrenaline in performance can be helpful, too much “can be extremely debilitating and negatively impact musicians’ quality of life, so finding a balance of that is important,” she says.
Without MWP or other interventions, performers often resort to beta blockers, substances or alcohol, Gee says, also pointing out that musicians have a long tradition of believing that playing through pain is simply part of the job.
“The CU Boulder College of Music is trying to help their students beat the odds,” she says, adding that the program continues to be groundbreaking because few music programs nationwide offer dedicated wellness programs, outside of a course or two. “We are one of the only colleges of music to have dedicated time and resources for a musician wellness program, including a full-time director. What Jim did to found the program and set it up in this way is now setting us up to continue to be a groundbreaking program in the future.”
Since taking over last fall, Gee has expanded the program by integrating her expertise as a doctor of physical therapy and yoga instructor, while collaborating more closely with embedded psychotherapist Matthew Tomatz to offer mind-body activities. She’s also looking for research opportunities to address occupational health disorders within the performing arts medicine community, as well as collaborating with the school’s wellness and sports centers.
The program has already shared a wealth of knowledge at international conferences, and, in Boulder, it continues to sustain creative expression through a greater understanding of bodymind practices. +
Kimberly Nicoletti Writer kimberlynicoletti.com
Waves of Becoming
Surf & yoga retreat for the maiden, mother & matriarch within.
DOMINICAL, COSTA RICA
April 7 -13, 2026
Reclaim your herstory through ocean waves, somatic healing & sisterhood.
EMBODY THE DAY
The Transformative Power of a Morning Movement Practice
Mornings often set the tone for everything that follows. The way we wake, move and breathe can shape how we carry ourselves through the hours ahead. A simple practice of intentional movement at the start of the day offers more than physical benefits — it can create space for clarity, presence and resilience. By engaging both body and mind, a morning ritual becomes less about routine and more about cultivating energy and balance for what’s to come.
Movement can also be an expression of gratitude — a way to honor your body by giving it time, space and care. A gentle stretch reminds you that you’re here, present. Feeling your feet on the floor, palms on the ground or back on the mat
is a practice of awareness — moving out of your head and into your body.
The benefits go far beyond flexibility. Stretching boosts circulation and awakens the body, while mindful movement deepens awareness, relieves tension and creates space around pain. Together, they form a powerful ritual of self-care. Beginning the day with this intention is an invitation to breathe deeply, move gently and let your body lead.
For many, a morning routine can evolve into sadhana — a daily spiritual practice. Rooted in yogic tradition, sadhana transforms physical exercise into a framework for presence and connection. Like countless practitioners before you, you ground yourself in awareness of your existence and unity with the day ahead. +
GENTLE YIN PRACTICE
For circulation, relief and awareness
HALF BUTTERFLY
Three minutes per side
Sit with one leg bent in, the other extended. Round your back and fold toward the extended leg. Repeat on the other side.
CAT/COW
One minute
On hands and knees, inhale to lift your head and drop your spine. Exhale to round your back and draw your chest inward. Let the breath guide the movement from tailbone to crown.
DOWNWARD-FACING DOG
One minute
From hands and knees, place your hips up and back. Draw the tailbone towards the heels. Palms and knuckles are firm on the mat/floor.
SWAN
Three minutes per side
From hands and knees, slide one knee forward between your hands. Adjust the front foot for comfort and extend the back leg. Center your weight, settle into the pose and repeat on the other side.
ANKLE STRETCH
One minute
Sit upright with hips resting on your heels and ankles. Roll the chest and hips slightly to adjust, holding the torso tall.
Brooke Doaks Writer, MA Yoga Studies, Yoga Teacher @yoginibrookedoaks themindbodybodymind.blog
LEMONY COCONUT ENERGY BALLS
This Poppable Treat Marries Lemon Bars with Coconut Bliss Bites
Whenever I set out on a skinning journey or a cross-country ski, I always try to stash some portable energy bites in my pack or pocket. It’s a nice surprise to offer to friends on the trail, a great way to stave off energy slumps and a simple snack that feels decadent in nature.
This poppable treat is raw and easy to throw together, requiring just a few quick pulses in a food processor. Unlike sugar-stacked lemon bars, there’s no added sugar here, just natural sweetness from medjool dates and a tangy sour zip from the citrus.
Raw walnuts, almonds, coconut flakes, dates and lemon juice, plus a little bit of sea salt and vanilla, meet in a food processor for a treat that’s ready to shape and eat in 10 minutes. +
Lisa Blake Writer @lisananblake | lisablakecreative.com
LEMONY COCONUT ENERGY BALLS
Makes a dozen balls
½ cup walnut pieces
½ cup raw unsalted almonds
10 pitted medjool dates
¹⁄₃ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon sea salt
Chop:
In a food processor, pulse together nuts, dates, lemon juice and zest, vanilla and sea salt. Keep scraping down sides and pulsing until a soft mixture forms.
Make balls:
When ingredients are fully combined, shape mixture into balls. Sizing is up to you, but I like to use a heaping tablespoon of dough for each ball.
Add coconut:
Roll each ball in a bowl of shredded coconut, making sure it’s evenly coated.
Chill:
Refrigerate for one hour and enjoy!
Store:
Seal energy balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. You can also make these ahead of the season and keep a stash in the freezer. They stay good for a month or so in an airtight bag or container.
EMBODY THE FLAVORS OF THE SEASON
How Ayurveda Balances Food + Feeling
Sugar and spice make everything nice. There’s a reason why these flavors give us the warm-andfuzzies, and it’s not just nostalgia. It’s taste science.
The Sanskrit word for taste, rasa, also refers to emotion. While your tongue tastes the flavor, your mind tastes the emotion. Modern English echoes this ancient wisdom through the double meaning in our words for taste — you can easily imagine what kind of mood someone’s in when they’re “sweet,” “salty” or “sour.” According to Ayurveda, we need all the six tastes — even “bitter” has its benefits!
TASTE THE SEASON
Balancing your mood with the right food choices is a tenet of Ayurvedic nutrition. Ayurvedic science is based on living in harmony with nature’s cycles, which introduces a seasonal approach to rasa blending. As the seasons change, nature provides us with the precise foods which inherently balance us, like sweet gourds stored for winter or astringent asparagus in spring.
EARLY WINTER RASAS
Tastes to Favor: Sweet, Sour and Salty Dishes: Meat Stew, Lentil Soup, Alfredo, Squash Soup, Bolognese, Pot Pies, Pizza, Lasagna, Apple Tart, Sweet Potato Pie Spices: Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cardamom, Cloves, Cumin, Coriander, Ginger Winter begins cold and dry. The air is lighter, the days darken and the veil thins. The bitter cold sends us indoors and encourages more quiet moments. It’s a special time for releasing the old and setting intentions for change.
We’re drawn to warmer, unctuous and heavier foods in winter because they keep us grounded. Think: nourishing, the kind of food that “sticks to your ribs.” This is the best time to enjoy thick stews, curries and creamy comfort dishes. Heartier fare like root vegetables and meat are helpful to maintain strength and tranquility. This is not a wise season
THE SIX TASTES, OR RASAS
SWEET
Satisfaction, satiation Sugar, wheat, cherries
SOUR
Searching beyond oneself Lemon, vinegar
SALTY
Zest for life Salt
PUNGENT
Excitement, passion Chii, ginger, radish
BITTER
Cool-headed, focused Kale, coffee, cucumber
ASTRINGENT
Clear, introspective Celery, cranberry, potatoes
to force weight loss or detox, as doing so works against nature, and could be depleting. Holiday spreads, pumpkin spice and your grandma’s soup are the satisfying balms we need in winter.
Spring is an invitation to purify. As winter thickens, the cold, wet season can feel like a heavy blanket. For this reason, many cultural traditions incorporate a spring cleanse for physical and spiritual purification. A gradual seasonal diet shift through the end of winter followed by a spring cleanse is nature’s way of staying fit. The sun takes a slow and steady approach to brightening our days — you can, too. As the snow melts and first shoots emerge, try adopting a gradual lightening of your diet. You can transition the rasas on your plate from winter to spring with more fresh produce, steaming, grilling and smaller portions. Garlic, onion, spice and chili help stoke the fire to burn away stagnation. Bitter and astringent vegetables like leafy greens, cucumber and cauliflower are gently detoxifying. If you need motivation towards these shifts, spend more time outdoors and let the rasas sprouting in the ground enliven you.
SAVOR EVERY SEASON
Ra refers to taste, relish or praise, and sa means juice, sap or secretion. A good life is truly a flavorful one. The winter-spring transition is a yearly opportunity to savor the seasonal wisdom of moving out of darkness and into light. To relish every last drop of wisdom, praise what you eat and eat like you’re in prayer. Sink your teeth into your local bounty — both the edibles as well as the smells, sounds and sights that inspire your soul. +
A REJUVENATING WINTER GETAWAY AT THE OURAY WINTER WINE FESTIVAL
February 14, 2026
There’s a certain kind of magic that settles over Ouray, Colorado in the winter. Steam rises from the hot springs, snow drapes Victorian rooftops and the sharp peaks of the San Juans glint like glass under the sun. It’s a town that feels both timeless and alive — a place to slow down, warm up and celebrate everything the Rocky Mountains have to offer.
For Valentine’s Day weekend 2026, the Ouray Winter Wine Festival returns to the historic Wright Opera House for its fourth year. This cozy, fireside celebration of Western Slope winemaking is the perfect reason to turn a single Saturday into a long, luxurious weekend in the mountains.
STAY + RESTORE
After winding into town, check into The Western Hotel & Spa, a beautifully restored 1891 landmark that blends frontier charm with modern wellness. Beneath its original stone walls lies the Grotto Spa, a subterranean sanctuary where guests can slip between a cedar sauna, cold plunge and warm soaking pool — a grounding ritual for body and mind.
Massages and treatments draw from the alpine landscape, with botanicals and minerals echoing the restorative energy of the San Juans. It’s the kind of experience that reminds you to exhale, and to linger a little longer.
Spa time at The Western feels even more special after a little adventure on Ouray’s famed Perimeter Trail, open throughout the year (shoe traction devices are necessary in the winter and spring).
SIP + SAVOR
On Saturday, February 14, the festival fills the Wright Opera House with the scent of oak and spice, the hum of conversation and the clink of tasting glasses. Guests can sample pours from seven wineries, one cidery and two distilleries, each rooted in the Western Slope’s sun-soaked valleys and high-altitude vineyards.
“This festival was born from a shared love of connection — between makers, place and people,” says Krysta Cossitt, co-founder and organizer. “It’s intimate, intentional and designed to celebrate what makes this region so special.”
Between pours, enjoy fresh oysters on the half shell perfectly paired with
local whites, or watch live glassblowing demonstrations that showcase another side of the region’s artistry. Lounge seating, flickering firelight and the Opera House’s 19th-century architecture set the scene for an evening that feels both elegant and deeply local.
STAY FOR THE WARMTH
When the glasses are empty, the experience doesn’t have to end. Soak beneath the stars at the Ouray Hot Springs, surrounded by snow and the soft silhouette of the peaks or retreat once more to the Grotto Spa for quiet restoration.
“The festival always falls on a holiday weekend, giving guests an extra day to pack it all in,” says Cossitt. With President’s Day on Monday, February 16, visitors can stretch their stay — blending wellness, wine and winter adventure into one unforgettable weekend.
Whether you’re a mountain adventurer, a wine enthusiast or simply seeking a little midwinter renewal, Ouray offers the perfect pairing: heritage and luxury, warmth and wonder, celebration and stillness.
Come for the wine. Stay for the wellness. +
NOVEMBER
Denver Christkindlmarket
Denver, CO
November 21-December 23
Experience Old World charm at the annual Christkindlmarket. This free holiday celebration at Civic Center Park features an authentic, German-style market with local European craft and food vendors for a mustsee experience in the Mile High City. christkindlmarketdenver.com
The Nutcracker by Boulder Ballet
Boulder, CO
November 28-30
Experience the magic of the holidays with The Nutcracker, where Clara's journey through the Land of the Sweets comes alive. The Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra and Boulder Ballet combine to create a dazzling performance, delighting the entire family with the beauty and artistry of the performance. boulderphil.org
DECEMBER
Birds of Prey World Cup Ski Racing
Beaver Creek, CO
December 4-7
Celebrate the return of the Beaver Creek Stifel Birds of Prey Audi FIS Ski World Cup, North America’s premier early-season ski race. From world-class men's racing to live music, beer tastings, ski films and festive village vibes, it’s where winter begins. bcworldcup.com
LVDY Community Winter Retreat
Meredith, CO
December 6-7
Join LVDY for a relaxing and uplifting winter weekend at Beyul, filled with music, nature and heart-centered community. Enjoy hot tub soaks, cold plunges, creative workshops and soulful reflection as you welcome 2026 with intention. beyulretreat.com
Winter Market
Longmont, CO
December 6-7
Get your holiday gifts in order early. Swing by the Boulder County Fairgrounds to visit 150 local ranchers, farmers and artisans for a local shopping experience with Colorado-made products and gifts. bcfm.org
Georgetown Christmas Market
Georgetown, CO
December 6-7 + 13-14
Celebrate the 65th annual Christmas Market on the first two weekends of December. Georgetown, a charming Victorian-era town, turns into a traditional Christmas Village with an outdoor European marketplace, horsedrawn wagon rides, roasted chestnuts and carolers in costume. historicgeorgetown.org
Vail Ugly Sweater Fun Run
Vail, CO
December 14
Break out your best (or worst) holiday sweater for the 2025 Ugly Sweater Fun Run, a festive, non-competitive race in Lionshead. Choose between a 5K or a 1-mile route, then stick around for prizes, hot drinks and plenty of post-run cheer. discovervail.com
Ullr Fest
Breckenridge, CO
December 18-20
Join the winter-loving mayhem at Breckenridge’s 62nd annual Ullr Fest, where locals and visitors gather to honor the Norse god of snow. From the iconic Main Street parade to the record-breaking Shotski attempt, this spirited celebration is in hopes of a powder-filled season. gobreck.com
JANUARY
Aspen Gay Ski Week
Aspen, CO
January 11-18
Aspen Gay Ski Week returns for the 49th year with a vibrant celebration of inclusivity, style and slope-side fun. Come for world-class skiing, stay for the parties — including the annual fundraiser for AspenOUT. gayskiweek.com
Big Sky Sports Medicine Conference
Bozeman, MT
January 11-15
This annual conference brings together professionals and exhibitors to showcase the latest advancements and innovations in sports medicine. Attendees gain insights into best practices and emerging trends, engage with industry leaders and participate in informative discussions. bssmc.org
Elevate Women’s Ski Camp
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, WY
January 13-16
Elevate Women’s Ski Camp is a four-day experience for intermediate to expert skiers who want to sharpen their skills, build confidence and connect with a vibrant community of adventurous women. With small-group coaching, video analysis, après events and support from top female coaches, more than half of participants return year after year. jacksonhole.com
Sundance Film Festival
Park City, UT
January 22-February 1
The Sundance Film Festival returns to Park City with a dynamic lineup of independent films and new voices in cinema from around the globe. Join filmmakers, actors and movie buffs for premieres, panels and events that celebrate the best in independent cinema. festival.sundance.org
Snowdown Durango Durango, CO
January 23-February 1
A five-day winter carnival featuring family-friendly activities including a Light Parade down Main Street, a Chili Cook-off & Bloody Mary Contest, games, puzzles, poetry and more. This year’s theme: “Celebrating 150 Years of Colorado History.” snowdown.org
FEBRUARY
Lake City Ice Climbing Festival
Lake City, CO
February 1
Watch top climbers tackle a stunning ice wall in the quaint mountain town of Lake City. Or join in the challenge, with sessions catered to climbers of all levels looking to hone their skills. lakecityice.com
Yoga + Art in the Baja
El Campo, Baja Sur, Mexico
February 1-7
Escape to Baja, Mexico, for six nights of relaxation, sunshine and rejuvenation in a beautiful retreat center. With twice-daily yoga classes with ocean views, gourmet farm-to-table meals and snacks, fresh juices and more, this is the mid-winter reset you needed. backtobalancewellness.ca
Steamboat Winter Carnival
Steamboat Springs, CO
February 5-9
Celebrate 112 years of snow, skis and shenanigans at Steamboat Springs’ iconic Winter Carnival. From skiers soaring through fiery hoops to kids being towed down Main Street by galloping horses, this beloved event blends wild winter sports with rich Western tradition — plus parades, fireworks and plenty of small-town magic. steamboatchamber.com
The Yoga Expo
Los Angeles, CA
February 7
North America’s largest yoga-inspired tradeshow returns to Los Angeles for its 10th year. Experience unlimited yoga classes for all levels, expert-led lectures and meditation sessions paired with organic and sustainable food. Discover innovative wellness brands and immerse yourself in a vibrant, holistic experience. theyogaexpo.org
The Ski Retreat
Lake Tahoe, CA
February 19-22
Hit the slopes by day and enjoy Tahoe’s legendary Snowfest by night during this ladies' ski and snowboard retreat based in a cozy cabin near Palisades/Alpine. From fireworks and live music to quiet nights by the fire, this choose-your-own-adventure getaway is winter at its best. theretreat.company
WinterWonderGrass
Steamboat Springs, CO
February 27-March 1
This vibrant outdoor festival, rain or shine, features over 25 bands on four stages across three days in Ski Town, USA (aka Steamboat Springs). Enjoy boot-stomping bluegrass shows and daily beer tastings from top Colorado breweries. Passes and ticket tiers are available. winterwondergrass.com
MARCH
Natural Products Expo West
Anaheim, CA
March 3-6
Natural Products Expo West is the premier trade show where emerging natural, organic and healthy brands connect with major retailers and gain insights from industry experts to drive growth and sales. expowest.com
Leadville Skijoring
Leadville, CO
March 7-8
Watch skiers race through jumps, gates and rings — while being pulled by a horse at full gallop — at the legendary Leadville Skijoring competition. A Leadville tradition since 1949, this fast-paced, high-stakes event draws thrill-seekers from across the country. leadvilleskijoring.com
The Association of Maternal & Child Health Programs
Washington DC
March 7-10
The AMCHP Annual Conference is one of the nation’s premier gatherings of maternal and child health professionals, spotlighting the powerful impact of programs across all levels. Participants are provided with the tools and resources to strengthen and sustain the health of women, children and families. amchp.org
International Yoga Festival
Banks of the Ganges River, India
March 9-15
Join yogis from around the world for a weeklong celebration of yoga, spirituality and community in the yoga capital of the world. This transformative event offers a chance to explore diverse yoga styles, connect with like-minded souls and learn from esteemed teachers in a setting that nurtures holistic wellness and personal growth. internationalyogafestival.org
Skinny Tire Spring Festival
Moab, UT
March 14-17
Celebrate 25 years of legendary riding at the Skinny Tire Spring Festival in Moab, where world-class road cycling meets jaw-dropping red rock scenery. This four-day event rolls through iconic routes including Arches National Park, Dead Horse Point and along the Colorado River. skinnytireevents.com
Health & Fitness Association Show San Diego, CA
March 16-18
Join health and fitness professionals from around the globe for three energizing days of expert insights, networking and next-level inspiration. Discover the tools, trends and connections to elevate your career or grow your business with purpose and power. healthandfitness.org
APRIL
Taste of Vail Vail, CO
April 1-4
A multi-day celebration of wine and food with multiple events, tastings and seminars throughout Vail. Don’t miss their signature events, including the Mountain Top Picnic, a food and wine tasting at 10,000 feet. tasteofvail.com
Coachella Indio, CA
April 10-12 + 17-19
One of the world’s most iconic music and arts festivals draws top performers and fans from around the globe for two unforgettable weekends. The festival blends live music, immersive art installations and trendsetting fashion under the desert sun. coachella.com
Experience the Magic of Sedona Sedona, AZ
April 21-24
A four-day immersive adventure in Sedona, Arizona, takes guests to sacred vortex sites, daily yoga, hiking through desert canyons, wine tasting and nutritious meals. This rejuvenating getaway blends nature, movement and soul-nourishing experiences in one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Southwest. fireflycommunity.com
Sedona Yoga Festival Sedona, AZ
April 23-26
Join the Sedona Yoga Festival for a transformative weekend of yoga, Ayurveda, sound healing and conscious connection in the majestic vortex of Sedona. With keynotes, excursions, kirtan, trauma-conscious training and more, this all-levels festival invites you to expand, evolve and connect in community. sedonayogafestival.com
HEALCon
Bellevue, WA
April 30-May 3
HEALCon is an educational conference for holistic nutrition professionals, drawing nationally acclaimed speakers, sustainable food and networking opportunities with practitioners from around the world. healcon.org
MAY
WellFest Ireland
Dublin, Ireland
May 9-10
Experience Europe’s largest outdoor health, fitness and wellness festival at the grounds of IMMA at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham in Dublin. From expansive group workouts and outdoor yoga and pilates sessions, to expert-led seminars, mindful meditation circles, a dedicated “WellKids” zone and a vibrant wellness food village — discover an immersive fest designed to energise your body, calm your mind and connect with a like-minded wellness community. wellfest.ie
Adventure Fest
Fruita, CO
May 10-11
Adventure Fest in Fruita is a high-energy weekend packed with trail running, mountain biking, gravel racing and a free women’s gravel clinic — set against the stunning Colorado desert backdrop. geminiadventures.com
Mountainfilm Festival
Telluride, CO
May 21-25
Mountainfilm is a dynamic documentary film festival that highlights stories of adventure, activism and the human spirit. More than just films, it brings together athletes, changemakers and artists for an inspiring weekend of bold ideas and big impact that range from environmental issues to social justice. telluride.com
Blues, Brews & BBQ
Beaver Creek, CO
May 22-24
Kick off Memorial Day Weekend at Beaver Creek’s Blues, Brews & BBQ Festival with live blues music, craft beers and mouth-watering barbecue from top pitmasters across Colorado and beyond. It’s a flavorful celebration of smoky bites, cold brews and good vibes in the mountains. beavercreek.com
BOLDERBoulder
Boulder, CO
May 25
The BOLDERBoulder is a 10K race that winds through the streets of Boulder with live music, cheering crowds and mountain views along the way. Runners, joggers and walkers of all levels are welcome, with the celebration culminating at the University of Colorado’s Folsom Field. bolderboulder.com
I THINK I'M LED BY SPIRIT. I THINK I'M LED BY A SENSE OF WHAT IS RIGHT AND WHAT FEELS GOOD TO ME — WHAT I ACCEPT, WHAT IS JOYFUL, WHAT IS POSITIVE. I SEE MY MISSION, IN A WAY, AS CARRYING THAT FORWARD — NOT SO MUCH BY PREACHING, BUT BY EMBODIMENT.
