WORK • Thursday Routine
ASHA WALKER • founder & CEO • Health in the Hood & Cured
Neighborhoods you work in: NW Miami-Dade food desert communities
It’s Thursday, what’s the scene at your workplace?
Thursday morning at Health in the Hood headquarters (i.e., my home office) is all about routine, good energy, and lots of matcha. I just finished an ass-kicking Lagree Pilates class, threw on some skincare, and hopped on my computer for my first Zoom meeting of the day. I’m leading my team to fulfill our mission of equal food access for all, through urban farming and wellness programs. By transforming vacant lots in food desert neighborhoods into vibrant vegetable gardens, we’re closing the gap in our food system and connecting communities back to their roots.
Cured, my holistic wellness app, is an extension of my personal mission to spread the ripple effect of health. It’s an interactive wellness library of over 70 modules centered around food, movement, and longevity.
What’s on your agenda for today?
We’re deep in the planning phase for the launch of a capital campaign to raise $5M to fund the development of the Health in the Hood Hub, a catalytic community center to bring our critical food security programs under one roof, providing a dignified, empowering experience for our families. And stay tuned for IRL Cured events.
Any bar or restaurant plans today, tonight, this weekend?
I love anything Michael Schwartz does — Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink and Amara at Paraiso are faves. Contessa in the Design District is another gem with an elegant and vibrant scene and really interesting, dynamic dishes on the menu.
How about a little leisure or culture?
Legion Park Farmers Market on Saturdays makes for a beautiful weekend outing with fresh, healthy options to stock up on and inspire weekly menus. When I’m going out, Living Room at Faena Miami Beach is my go-to for an intimate live music dance party. Medium Cool is also a chill, well-located spot in South Beach with live music and immaculate vibes.
Any weekend getaways?
We’re fortunate to be able to call both Miami and Palm Beach home. When we need a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of Miami, we retreat to our beachside casita in our quiet Palm Beach town. It’s our version of paradise.
What’s a recent big-ticket purchase you love?
My Higherdose sauna blanket and Normatec compression boots are two wellness and recovery big-ticket items that I’ve fully gotten my money’s worth.
What store or service do you always recommend?
I’m always investing in my largest organ — my skin. Barba Skin Clinic and Sana Skin Studio are my versions of skincare heaven.