SoCal Favorites
(National Options Too)
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Southern California Favorites: Local Resources That Nourish Body and Soul (With some National Options too)
Southern California has been such a healing backdrop for my life — from the sun-drenched beaches to the year-round farmers markets, it’s a place where wellness can truly be a way of life. Over the years, I’ve discovered some incredible local gems that support my clean living lifestyle, recovery journey, and everyday joy. This page is a growing collection of my personal favorites: places I trust, frequent, and love — from massage therapists trained in oncology care to natural grocery stores, juice spots, organic skincare boutiques, and cozy restaurants where you can eat well without compromising your health. Whether you live in the area or are just passing through, I hope this guide helps you feel a little more supported and inspired in your own healing path.
Grocery Shopping
The Ecology Center: This is my absolute favorite place to get produce and eat! They are regenerative, organic, biodynamic, all the things -- a true pioneer and inspiration for what food should be. They have a farmstand 7 days/week and check the schedule and menu for their Campesino Cafe which is amazing.
The Fermentation Farm: With locations in Costa Mesa and also now in San Juan Capistrano, I love visiting for healthy fermented foods and groceries. Try their sauerkraut sourdough sandwich for a real treat. I go on Thursdays to Costa Mesa when they also have a produce market outside with berries and more from Rosewood Farms.
Local Farmer's Markets: I go to Corona Del Mar's market Saturdays from 9am - 1pm in the Bandera parking lot, but a quick Google search will show you others. Talk to the vendors to know which ones don't spray.
Brodino Bone Broth: I get mine at the CDM Farmer's Market, but they also ship nationally! So nourishing and the most delicious soups and chilis. You can stock up and store them in your freezer for months!
Mother's Market: For staples and when I need specific ingredients for a recipe, I always go to Mother's Market. They have a great organic juice and smoothie bar too with monthly specials.
Sejuiced: Speaking of juices and smoothies, you can feel great about anything you get from Sejuiced. They are a local and independently owned spot that is full of nourishing goodness. Stock up on their cold pressed juices. Their pre-made oats and salads are also delicious.
Restaurants
Vibe Organic Kitchen: Organic, Seed Oil Free, Gluten Free -- their quality and entire menu is a dream, you can't go wrong!
True Food Kitchen: Founded by Dr. Andrew Weil (THE OG of integrative medicine) and inspired by the Mediterranean Diet, they are also now seed oil free and have many locations nationally.
Nirvana, by Chef Lindsay: I recently discovered this Laguna spot and I'm obsessed. Their menu is amazing and seasonal, organic, wild and seed oil free. The atmosphere is cozy and the service is super friendly and top notch. They also have an extensive soup menu and to go options, utilizing every last bit of ingredients so nothing goes to waste.
Exercise Studios and Sweat
A7 Personal Training: The best personal training gym, right here in Corona Del Mar. I have been training here for years with Vidal and my husband trains with the owner Alek. If you like 1:1 training and a private space, this is where you need to go!
EKAM Yoga: I love the style of yoga here as well as the beautiful facility. Heated, but not sweaty hot style yoga, there are plenty of classes to choose from. And they also have Pilates!
Body Design: A gym and pilates studio, you can watch the sunset while you workout. Body Design has been one of my local favorites for 10+ years.
Perspire Sauna Studio: Also with national locations, I love my Perspire membership. The saunas are always pre-heated and ready to go when I arrive. Clean, a cooling eucalyptus towel for when you're done and great service. This is where I go to experience the benefits of sauna.
