Your Guide to Healthy Living in Santa Monica

January 10, 2018 9:00 AM
by Cindy Lee

It’s a new year! If you’re like most Americans, getting fit and healthy is probably one of your top resolutions. Here’s some inspiration to get you started.

According to the City’s 2017 Wellbeing Index, only a third of Santa Monicans get 20 minutes or more of exercise per day, while only 20 percent eat the recommended servings of fruits and vegetables a day. One-third of Santa Monicans are reportedly stressed all or most of the time.

In an effort to help you change that, here’s your guide to becoming healthier in mind, body and soul, right here in Santa Monica.

Move Your Body: Physical Health

Get a Workout at Clover Park (2600 Ocean Park Blvd)

Enjoy a 15-station fitness Miracle Recreation Equipment course, with a rope climb, balance beam, vault bar and horizontal ladder, along with push-up, dip, chin-up and stretching stations.

Take a Stroll at Tongva Park (1615 Ocean Ave)

Go for a peaceful walk at Tongva Park. The 6.2-acre park is the perfect place to go for a nice stroll while enjoying scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and of the Santa Monica Pier. The park includes an amphitheater, playground, garden and fountains.

Learn to Eat Healthy at Santa Monica Public Library (Pico Branch)

Improve your general wellbeing with a workshop based on balance, nutrition and lifestyle, to prevent the development or progression of chronic diseases.

January 29, 6:00 p.m. at Pico Branch, 2201 Pico Blvd.

Get Your Fruits and Veggies at the Farmers Market

Time to stock up on green goodies! Walk or bike to your local farmers market for fresh organic produce. See The Farmers Market schedule and locations here.

Listen To Your Heart: Emotional Health

Building strong relationships and spending quality face-to-face time with others is crucial for your emotional health. Whether it’s your family, friend, neighbor or community member, it’s important to connect with people face-to-face.

Volunteer with a Local Nonprofit

Experience the true meaning of community by serving our most vulnerable residents. Visit volunteermatch.org for local opportunities at nonprofits offering volunteer opportunities and essential services to those in need.

Enter the Happiness Room

The library’s pop-up Happiness Room is dedicated to all kinds of resources, visuals and interactive features, including virtual reality on happiness, joy, positivity and gratitude.

January 25, 6:00 p.m., Santa Monica Public Library (1704 Montana Ave)

Clear Your Mind: Mental Health

Mental health and physical health go handin-hand. Studies show that stress, anxiety and depression can lead to chronic health problems. On the other hand, physical activity can lower stress levels and symptoms of anxiety and depression. Here are some ways Santa Monica can help improve your mental health:

Get Some Vitamin D

Vitamin D deficiency can lead to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Despite the winter weather, it’s important to go outside and get some sun. With 27 parks and beaches nearby, Santa Monica makes it easy!

Appreciate Local Art

Art has been scientifically proven to reduce stress and anxiety. Take a stroll down Pico Boulevard in Santa Monica for a Walking Mural Tour. Pico Boulevard features art created by local artists and the community. Visit buylocalsantamonica.com/mural.

Meditation for New Beginnings

Begin the New Year with meditation! Meditator Doug Frankel demonstrates effective techniques to reduce stress, enhance relaxation and improve your overall health. January 18, 6:30 p.m., Santa Monica Public Library (1704 Montana Ave.)

New Hobbies for a New Year

Finding a new hobby or learning a new skill can do wonders for you. It can relieve stress and distract you from your day-to-day worries. Wondering where to start? Head to Santa Monica College and register for Winter 2018 classes and check out what’s available at the Camera Obscura Art Lab at 1450 Ocean!

Santa Monica College Open House February 3, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Bundy Campus, Room 123. Camera Obscura Art Lab. Free and low-cost classes weekly. smgov.net/camera

3 in 1 = Yoga

Get 3 Benefits with 1 Exercise!

A yoga class can benefit your physical, mental and emotional health, all in one session! You don’t have to look far to sign up. The Annenberg Community Beach House in Santa Monica offers weekly yoga classes. Come get a workout, clear your mind and mingle with fellow yogis! Namaste.

Authored By

Cindy Lee
Staff Assistant III