Whispers of Topanga: A Journey Through Time and Nature

In The Mood For California

Elise Mallove’s connection to natural and plant-based healing began in early childhood, despite it being neither accepted nor practiced in her family. She was drawn to flowers, often picking them, hugging them in the privacy of her room, and even eating them. In her early twenties, Elise moved to Los Angeles and soon found a small shop specializing in natural skin and body care. Stepping into that shop felt like a profound awakening for her, and she spent every spare moment there until she was eventually hired. This led her to become a licensed aesthetician focused on natural skincare. It was through her practice that she met her husband, a holistic MD, and together they shared a journey in holistic health for 25 years. Her flourishing skincare practice shifted when she lost her office space. This coincided with her move to Topanga in 1988, where she realized she was burned out from giving so much of herself. She spent several years running her husband’s office until she felt a renewed calling to help others. She went on to study flower essence therapy, craniosacral therapy, and trained as a hospice volunteer. With COVID, Elise decided to close her practice and retire as she was approaching 70. She now spends her days happily in her cozy treehouse, finding peace and joy in observing nature, especially her “neighbors” — the birds and squirrels. Though she and her husband divorced after 25 years, they remain close friends. Today, Elise continues to craft flower essences for friends in need, but her greatest joy comes from savoring the simple pleasures of her life in Topanga — moments she looks forward to sharing with us! www.inthemoodforcalifornia.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maria.korpacheva.3 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthemoodforcalifornia/ Twitter: @InTheMoodForCA