Living in the City of Los Angeles means navigating its unique challenges and vibrant culture. The city is one of the most racially and ethnically diverse in the nation, yet this diversity doesn’t always translate to equal health outcomes. For example, Black Californians have a shorter life expectancy compared to other groups, and higher rates of preventable hospitalizations and chronic conditions. This makes prioritizing health and self-advocacy more important than ever.
Our NOWINCLUDED community members, Eriel and Michelle, have scouted out some of the best local spots to help you stay active and eat well, directly supporting your health journey.
Move Your Body
Physical activity is crucial for managing chronic conditions and improving mental well-being.
- Hikes to Griffith Observatory:
Skip the traffic and take in the city views by hiking one of the Griffith Observatory trails. This is a great way to see the LA skyline and a glimpse of the Hollywood Sign while getting in a workout. As Eriel shares, “I love a chance to get outside and enjoy the weather here on a nice day. California has the most beautiful mountains and landscapes, and the air always feels fresher on a hike! There are lots of different trails you can choose near Griffith, so there’s always something new to explore.”
- Where: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 9002
- Where: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 9002
Price range: Free
Price range: - Eriel’s recommendation:
- Parking near the Observatory is paid ($10/hr), but many people opt to park at the bottom of the trails and hike up for free.
Eriel’s recommendation:- The Cycling Pigeon in Eagle Rock:
This Black-owned studio offers indoor and outdoor cycling and yoga classes. Michelle says, “I love this studio because it fosters a sense of community and belonging. The spin bikes outside are spread out, and they encourage you to go at your own pace and to work out in whatever way you need to that day”. The positive and supportive environment makes it a great place to stay active.
- Website: https://thecyclingpigeon.com/
- Where: 4505 Eagle Rock Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90041
- Price range: $$-$$$
- Single classes start at $25, and they offer a 4-class pass for $75.
- Michelle’s recommendation:
- They offer new client specials and packages, so check their website for the latest deals.
Eat Well, Live Better
Healthy eating is a cornerstone for preventing and managing chronic heart conditions.
- goop Kitchen:
goop Kitchen is an extension of Gwenyth Paltrow’s clean lifestyle brand. They offer tasty and nutritious bowls, salads, and wraps that are gluten-free and plant-based, which can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health. As Eriel mentions, “goop is offered at a DoorDash Kitchens near where I live and it’s super good for a quick and healthy lunch. The dishes aren’t as expensive as you may expect, so it’s a good go-to for me”.
- Website: https://www.goopkitchen.com/
- Where: Multiple locations, including 1411 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026
- Price range: $$-$$$
- Bowls and salads typically range from $16-$22.
- Eriel’s recommendations:
- The goop Teriyaki Bowl
- The Greenest Green Salad
- Gracias Madre:
An upscale, plant-based Mexican restaurant with a stunning patio in West Hollywood. While it’s vegan, its flavorful dishes and beautiful setting make it a favorite for everyone. Michelle says, “While I’m not a vegetarian or vegan, I love eating here because of the ambiance and the flavorful dishes”. A plant-based diet is a great way to incorporate more nutrients and fiber into your meals.
- Website: https://graciasmadre.com/
- Where: 8905 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90069
- Price range: $$$
- Entrees and mains typically range from $18-$25.
- Michelle’s recommendation:
- Jackfruit Carnitas Tacos
- RABANO:
This casual cafe in Santa Monica is Asian family-owned and serves healthy rice bowls and sandwiches with locally sourced ingredients. As Michelle explains, “I love that it’s family-owned, and you can taste the freshness in the ingredients”. Their use of fresh, local produce ensures you’re getting nutrient-dense food that supports a healthy lifestyle.
- Website: https://www.rabano.co/
- Where: 2507 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90405
- Price range: $$
- Michelle’s recommendations:
- Meiling’s Chinese Salad
- El Koreano Super Bowl
- O’seyo Shabu Shabu:
A Korean family-owned shabu shabu restaurant in East Pasadena. It offers a unique and healthy dining experience with nourishing broths and fresh ingredients. Michelle says, “Their sesame sauce is the best I’ve had at a shabu shabu restaurant, the service is fantastic, and they offer hot drops to add some heat to your sauces and soups.” Shabu shabu allows you to cook your own lean meats and fresh vegetables, making for a delicious and nutritious meal.
- Website: https://www.oseyoshabushabu.net/
- Where: 2879 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91107
- Price range: $$-$$$ (Regular shabu shabu sets start at around $23)
- Michelle’s recommendations:
- Vintage Prime Rib Set
- Spicy Miso Broth
Community Events
Connecting with your community can improve your overall health and well-being.
- BlacklistLA:
This nonprofit uses running to promote community, art discovery, and healthy living. They host free weekly events for all fitness levels. Michelle shares, “They welcome runners of all levels and focus on empowering the community through running.”
- Website: https://www.blacklistla.org/
- Where: Meeting locations vary, but they often meet in DTLA, Echo Park, and other neighborhoods for different runs. Check their website for the weekly schedule.
- Price range: Free
- Michelle’s recommendation:
- The “Art Runs” are a great way to see the city’s murals while getting a workout.
Ready to explore these LA gems and take control of your health? Connect with Eriel and Michelle and more local health guides in the NOWINCLUDED app!
