The older I get, the more health and wellness rule my life—not to mention, of course, the whole global pandemic thing. Having once lived in the “healthiest” state in the U.S. (Hawai’i, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), and now that I’m back in the eighth healthiest state (California), my idea of healthy living has evolved.
Yes to more time spent in nature and eating “natural” foods, both of which are plentiful here, thankfully. Yes to moving my body more and practicing mindfulness. But I also feel wellness is holistic.
I believe that the key to good health is a balance of pleasure and diligence. Of consuming fresh veggies mostly, but having the occasional burnt honey cream sourdough donut (looking at you, SoDo Donuts!). Of working hard at my job, having focused, intelligent conversations with my colleagues, then completely unplugging during the weekends and being absolutely ridiculous with friends (it’s usually their fault, just saying).
So I appreciate learning about new methods of wellness, such as those found here. In this issue, we speak to Berkeley author Elizabeth Rosner about her latest book on the science of listening. It turns out that sound—and silence—has an impact on our wellbeing. We also explore an alternative fitness class in aerial silks, which incorporates acrobatic arts with strength training. Engaging my core and flexibility while hanging upside down in a dazzling display of circus-esque bohème? Sign me up!
Other healthful explorations in this issue include a foray into Berkeley’s Aftel Archive of Curious Scents, where we enter the world of natural perfumes and the complexity of engaging our senses. We uncover two women’s organizations based in Oakland, but with international reach: Him For Her, helping to place more women in corporate boardrooms, and Rise Up, supporting women to achieve their full potential. We also talk to the power duo behind public arts projects at Local Edition Creative in Oakland and now, Creative Concord.
And finally, we visit the utterly charming market Of All Places, whose purveyors were inspired by a wine club and the late Italian actress Monica Vitti, and who use their shelves to stock many local goods produced by restaurant workers who lost their jobs during the pandemic. Mangia!
