Winter is the prime time of year for planting in Southern California. Getting your hands dirty planting a tree, as laborious as it may sound, is a rewarding commitment. And just like we strive to fill our bodies with local produce, it is just as important to fill our gardens with native plants. Miss out on getting a free fruit tree at the market last week? Don't let that stop you from from any gardening endeavors!

We suggest planting a manzanita tree: In Los Angeles, trees like the manzanita, with its rich bark and enticing flowers, attract native pollinators and birds and come in a wide variety. While a beautiful addition to a native garden, planting a manzanita can also be important for water supply. The movement of their leaves in direction away from the sun keeps them from losing moisture, or transpiring. In this natural movement it avoids photosynthesis, preserving the water from escaping the plant. This lack of negative environmental impact goes hand-in-hand with the biggest new year’s goal of all: taking care of our planet.

If you are having troubles launching yourself into 2014 and a new routine, think of what can be understood by agriculture. In giving locally to your farmers and your environment, you can also reap the benefits.

More information regarding the manzanita in Los Angeles at, http://articles.latimes.com/2009/jan/31/home/hm-manzanita31

By Katelyn Stark
Contributing Writer

First of all, there are plenty of styles to choose from – whether you want a more restorative class focused on relaxation and stretching, or a physically challenging Power Yoga class to get you sweating and building muscle, or anything in between; There is, without a doubt, a yoga style out there for absolutely everyone. 

Second, yoga literally means “union”. It is a practice that unites your body, mind, and spirit. It is a form of meditation – a moving meditation – that allows you to reflect inwards, focus your attention in the present moment, and access your inner peace and power. As your body moves and builds strength, your mind focuses through meditation, allowing you to learn more about yourself, your life, and the world. I know it might sound a little crazy, but it’s true! 

Lastly, yoga is based in thousands of years of practice. Yoga is not a new phenomenon. Though the practice was originally just meditation and principles of living, as outlined in the Yoga Sutras, the physical practice that accompanies the meditation and comprises what we now define as “yoga”, has been passed down through thousands of years of gurus, teachers and practitioners. The poses work. They are designed for every human body. As long as you follow proper anatomical alignment, as guided by an instructor, you can take any level of yoga and feel its benefits. 

It’s about pushing yourself past physical and mental limits, but it’s not about getting bruises or showing off. It’s about setting your own personal goals, finding truth and learning that you have the power to create a happy and healthy life. Everything you need lies within you, and yoga gives you the power to unlock your potential. 

“There is a power in the universe more powerful than you are, and all you need to do to access it is relax, surrender, and breathe.”  Journey Into Power, Baron Baptiste

-Steph C. Woods, LA & OC based yoga instructor

Facebook.com/stephCwoods