Santa Cruz, CA Health and Fitness

For nine years, Gloria Walker has helped clients of all ages and fitness levels shape up with low-impact exercises. She puts her certification from the Aquatic Exercise Association to good use while leading exercises that strengthen muscles, lower blood pressure, and build endurance in both deep and shallow waters. Gloria outfits clients with hand buoys and flotation belts so that they can concentrate on toning muscles and flexing newly formed gills. To further reduce the risk of injury, Gloria—who is also a licensed lifeguard certified in advanced first aid and CPR—emphasizes body alignment and deep breathing.

Jami Rose, Caitlin Elfving, and Debbie McMenemy call their acupuncture practice a lounge for good reason. Upon entering the Flux Acupuncture Lounge’s treatment room, one typically sees a group of relaxed guests sinking into recliners. Patients are encouraged to stay as long as they wish to better absorb the benefits of meticulously placed needles.

Jami is a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist who holds a master’s degree from the American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine to complement her post-graduate work in obstetrics and gynecology. She draws on her background to treat a variety of women’s health concerns. Caitlin has a master's in Oriental medicine and uses acupuncture as a noninvasive solution to nagging ailments. Debbie, who also has a master’s in traditional Chinese medicine, focuses on treating pain with acupuncture. She traveled to China frequently during her studies and saw just how effective community acupuncture can be.

The three health experts use holistic medicine to treat chronic issues, such as hormonal imbalances, and also provide relief from temporary conditions, such as back pain or disappointment after forgetting to make a wish at 11:11.