May 2023 Natural Awakenings Chicago magazine

Reclaim Your Life…

“I am a family physician who tried to cure myself for a few years, as I was suffering from menopausal symptoms, fatigue and a change in my body weight and composition. It was hard to find a cure. Fortunately, I found this at Heal n Cure with Dr. Meena Malhotra. The practice is very well organized, focused on patient’s needs, and very cost effective in the long run. I went from 146 pounds to 138 in two short months and feel great.” ~Bella

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) is delicate. Manage meticulously.

Hello,

I’m Dr. Meena, Medical Director of the Heal n Cure Wellness Center in Glenview.

We have helped hundreds of women with the disabling symptoms of menopause:

♦ Hot Flashes

♦ Poor Sleep

♦ Weight Gain

♦ Low Sex Drive

♦ Mood Disturbance

HOW CAN I TAKE CONTROL?

The optimal balancing of all of your hormones leads to an enhanced quality of life. Testing, proper dosing and monitoring by a doctor with an expertise in BHRT are critical to managing the menopause symptoms.

A common misconception is that estrogen levels get diminished during menopause while many postmenopausal women have plenty of estrogen, but in reality, several other hormone levels are out of whack. Menopause symptoms may be a natural phenomenon, but there is no reason to believe we can’t make this phase of life as enjoyable as possible

We Believe There is Hope and There Are Answers!

If menopause is a “normal” phase of life, why do I feel so far from normal?

ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS

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Email articles, news items and ideas to: Amy@NAChicago.com Deadline for editorial: the 5th of the month.

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Submit online at: NAChicago.com/events/new or email Calendar Events to: Calendar@NAChicago.com. Deadline for calendar: the 8th of the month.

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Is your body telling you it needs help?

Do new symptoms creep up on you too fast?

Have dietary modifications failed to provide relief?

Help is a phone call away.

Reneé Barasch, Certified Digestive Health and Detoxification Specialist, has been helping clients achieve nutritional balance and enhance quality of life for more than 17 years. Reneé’s individualized plans help clients re-boot their digestive tracts and increase absorption of needed nutrients—creating the environment for detoxification of all organs and the pathways between them.

Working with Reneé, you will:

• Identify digestive triggers. (Some may surprise you!)

• Understand which foods agree with you— and those that don’t.

• Create a detoxification and digestive plan.

Digestion is one of the main ways the body detoxifies and cleanses.

If the food you consume isn’t thoroughly broken down, your body cannot work as efficiently as it should. Poor digestion causes stress for the entire digestive system and leads to gas, bloating, acid reflux, constipation, diarrhea and even insomnia, psoriasis, eczema, chronic pain, and anxiety. Undigested food can seep

into the bloodstream through a condition called “leaky gut syndrome,” which often leads to more serious conditions like Crohn’s Disease, colitis, and other autoimmune disorders.

Environmental irritants also affect digestion.

The environment can also produce irritation and inflammation. Everyday, airborne toxins perfumes, cleaning products, smoke, automotive exhaust, indoor dust, and springtime pollen find their way into our bloodstream (in less than 20 seconds!) and cause digestive organs to work overtime. A runny nose, itchy eyes, and red and blotchy skin often result in a trip to the allergist, when a digestive imbalance may be contributing.

Stay strong and healthy with a gut ‘reset.’

• Effectively and efficiently digest food.

• Reduce inflammation.

• Nourish your gut—and ensure your whole body is balanced.

• Regulate the processing and digestion of food and the elimination of waste by incorporating foods that lead to better absorption and detoxification.

My sport through high school was figure skating, and our local rink held its Spring Ice Show at the end of May. Evening and weekend rehearsals, costume sewing and excitement about the show filled the month. My schedule was also filled with homework and projects, afterschool clubs, test prep and the anticipation of summer vacation. Outside, it was bike-riding season, and by high school (no license until late in senior year) my red Montgomery Ward 10-speed with the skinny tires and drop handlebars got me pretty much everywhere.

May started our home gardening season, and my mom was busy with flats of annuals for our city yard. She’d get out the little green bench my grandfather had crafted years ago, the trowel, a bucket of water and a cup. Then we’d move down the sidewalk along the fence where she’d dig the planting hole, I’d add water, she’d plant the seedling and I’d water it in. My folks would plant the tomatoes, peppers and lettuce in the garden by the garage a little later in May, and also help my dad’s mother with her city garden and my mom’s parents with their Antioch veggie garden.

May is the busiest month for colorful, migrating birds in the Midwest. An avid, lifetime birdwatcher, my mom always had her binocs and bird books at the ready. Longtime readers may recall me mentioning once that she wrote the principal a note to please excuse my being late to grade school because we were watching a migrating Scarlet Tanager in a tree. I kid you not, and it was accepted. I still have her Nikon binoculars and well-worn field guides—along with my own birding books and phone apps (Merlin Bird ID is a personal fav).

This month in Natural Awakenings Chicago, we’re celebrating Women’s Wellness Month, with a focus on how stress and anxiety can affect health, and lifestyle adaptations to better thrive in our complex, busy world. In our main feature, Linda Sechrist interviews current thought leaders in women’s health for tips and lifestyle approaches to better manage stress and increase resiliency. Natural Awakenings and KnoWEwell have teamed with these practitioners for an online series of live webinars in which they’ll take a deep dive into stress management techniques. To join in the conversation, please check the promo on page 7. I also encourage you to learn more about some of our local women’s health leaders in this month’s Women Business Owners sections, scattered throughout this issue.

If you’d like to get started gardening and bird watching, writer Sheryl DeVore covers both topics as she explores why gardening is good for our health, and then talks with local birding experts on the best ways for novice and experienced birders to catch the wonder of spring migration season. If you’d prefer to get away from the Chicago area for a relaxing weekend north of the border, Lisa Kivirist takes us on a road trip to Elkhart Lake and the Kettle Moraine region of Wisconsin. Of course, we feature plenty of nutritious and delicious recipes to help balance our hormones and reduce diet-related inflammatory stress responses.

As always, I encourage you to please step outside each day and experience this month with all of your senses. Despite the hectic pace of the month, try to consciously stop to smell the flowers, wrap yourself in early morning birdsong as it fills the air, enjoy a spring rain, plant a container garden, sample spring vegetables fresh from a farmers market or CSA and share your seasonal joy and awe with others. Happy Spring! Happy Mother’s Day!

Publisher Peggy Malecki

Sales & Marketing Peggy Malecki

Carrie Jackson

Heidi Hetzel

Operations Amy Hass

Editors Marty Miron

Theresa Archer

Randy Kambic

Writers Carrie Jackson

Megy Karydes

Sheryl DeVore

Design & Production Suzzanne Siegel

CONTACT US

Natural Awakenings Chicago P.O. Box 72, Highland Park, IL 60035

Ph: 847-858-3697 • Fax: 888-858-3107

Info@NAChicago.com • NAChicago.com

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NATIONAL TEAM

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National Advertising Lisa Doyle-Mitchell

CONTACT US

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation

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Peggy Malecki

Cover photo: pexels-sam-lion-6001433

When I was growing up, May was a busy month for activities of all varieties. Now, it seems that while the busyness has continued, my wonder in the natural beauty of this lovely month has grown with each passing year.

Trevor Cates, ND Stress Impact on Skin

Jaclyn Chasse, ND Stress and Fertility

Carol Penn, DO Aging Gracefully

Carrie Jones, MD, FAAP Stress and Your Thyroid

Jaquel Patterson, ND, IFMCP Sleep, Cortisol and Its Relation to Stress

Anna Cabeca DO, OBGYN, FACOG Stress and Libido

Arti Chandra, MD, MPH Healing Your Gut

Anne Marie Fine, ND Cracking the Beauty Code

Kela Smith, PhD, DNM Stress and Fertility

Jyl Steinbeck Women’s Health and Homeopathy

women business owners!

Wrigleyville Dental Founded 2012, Chicago

We are Chicago’s premier biological holistic dentist office.

We recognize the mouth is the gateway to the body, thus we use the safest, least toxic, most conservative measures to accomplish our patients’ dental needs.

We practice comprehensive dentistry and incorporate services such as safe amalgam removal, PRF facials, orthodontics, TMJ treatment, sleep and airway treatment, children’s dentistry and much more.

When it comes to self-care, what do you tell your clients?

To me, self care is anything that rejuvenates me and “fills my cup”. Sometimes it’s taking a bath, going on a hike, meditating or even cleaning my work space! Especially when times get hectic, I close my eyes and ask myself, “What do I really need right now?”

Why should our readers integrate your services into their lives?

Holistic Dentistry is a comprehensive, modern approach to dentistry. It uses the latest technology and research-based techniques which includes safe and non-toxic materials. We also incorporate esthetic services like microneedling with PRF which creates younger looking skin 100% naturally. This type of dentistry is truly the most conservative and the best for the human body.

773-975-6666 OFFICE

3256 Ashland Ave, Chicago

WrigleyvilleDental.com

See my ads on pages 25 and 53

Register for Annual Chicago Gardening Contest

The 2023 Chicago Excellence in Gardening Awards (CEGA), the only citywide program of its kind, is celebrating its seventh year of rewarding gardeners for the beauty and sustainability they bring to their backyards and to their neighborhoods. The program is accepting online applications from May 1 through June 30, and winners will be announced at the annual ceremony in September at Wild Blossom Meadery and Winery, adjacent to Dan Ryan Woods, on Chicago’s south side.

CEGA welcomes Chicago residents, businesses and institutions to enter their backyards, parkways, community gardens, schools, work locations, rooftops, container gardens and even urban farms. Each garden is visited in person by a CEGA judge, and winning entries are presented with a certificate and an all-weather sign courtesy of the Forest Preserve District of Cook County, a CEGA partner.

Open only to gardens in the city of Chicago, there is no entry fee and only one entry per garden will be accepted. For more information and to register, visit ChicagoGardeningAwards.org. See ad on page 11.

Enter Mother’s Day Gift Basket Raffle

Chapel Hill Bodyworks, a wellness center with locations in McHenry and Lake counties, is raffling a “Pamper Mom” Mother’s Day Gift Basket (approximately $700 retail value) with the purchase of a gift certificate of $100 or more. Massage makes a great gift, too.

Some of the contents include a $320 voucher for a complete thermography breast study; gift certificates to local restaurants and businesses; specialty food items; local honey and artisan tea; a $75 Chiropractic voucher and wellness book; salon products and more. The drawing will will be held on May 10.

Chapel Hill provides therapeutic work incorporating therapeutic massage, cupping, craniosacral therapy, visceral manipulation, acupuncture, biofeedback, wellness coaching, nutrition and immune support. They also host workshops that facilitate wellness and self-care.

Locations: 3520 Chapel Hill Rd., Johnsburg (815-578-8430); and 62 E. Grand Ave., Ste. B., Fox Lake (224-908-3902). For more information, email Wellness@CHBodyworks.com or visit CHBodyworks.com See ad on page 18.

Bernice Teplitsky, DDS, NMD, FAGD, AIAOMT

Photo Credit Julie Siegel

2022 CEGA Winners Bert and Mimi for their Rooftop Garden

I NCR EASE

B ONE

DENS ITY WITHOUT DRU GS. Whether you are concerned about osteoporosis, looking to improve athletic performance, or just want to make your overall fitness better, OsteoStrong can help. OsteoStrong works for people at all ages and levels of activity to promote skeletal strength. The osteogenic loading technique has been shown to trigger bone density growth in sessions that only take a few minutes a week. Learn more at osteostrongwilmette.com

women business owners!

OptioRx

Formed in 2018

Corporate Location: Oakbrook Braun PharmaCare, Chicago

Infinity Foundation to Hold 26th Anniversary Gala

The Infinity Foundation will hold a vital fundraising event on May 19 at the Ravinia Green Country Club. A practitioner fair with mini-demonstrations and silent auction from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. precedes an elegant dinner at 8 p.m. Andrew Harvey, a poet, scholar, writer, teacher, mystic and 2023 Spirit Award recipient, will be the keynote speaker.

A workshop with Harvey, including lunch, will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., May 20, with a journey into the mystical aspects of love from his latest release, Love Is Everything He says, “Love is the most powerful force for all of humanity and is the greater connection to the higher source.”

Rinku Patel

OptioRx is a premier national digital pharmacy focusing on providing bestin-class patient care. Through our specialized services, we meet the unique needs of patients, pets, clinicians and provide personalized, high-quality customized compounded medications. We have 18 pharmacy locations and can service all states with Braun Pharmacare being our Chicago location.

When it comes to self-care, what do you tell your clients?

Self-care is personalized by its very nature. A unique aspect of compounded medication is that you, your doctor and our pharmacists create a formula that meets your exacting needs, whether it be allergies, route of administration or many other characteristics that cannot be accomplished with generalized medication.

Why should our readers integrate your services into their lives?

OptioRx’s mission is to create and provide the highest quality of care in a range of specialized therapies and be a trusted and reliable resource for patients and providers. Specifically, Braun, our Chicago pharmacy, has decades of experience in tailoring fertility medications and compounding medications.

877-958-1601

OptioRx.com

info@OptioRx.com

Cost: Gala is $125, with optional VIP meet-and-greet with Harvey for $50. Workshop is $140, with a $125 payment 10 days in advance. Location: 1200 Saunders Rd., Riverwoods. For more information or to register, visit InfinityFoundation.org See ad on page 27, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com

Awaken Sixth Sense at Body Mind Spirit Expo

With a theme of “Beyond the Waterfall,” the Body Mind Spirit Expo at the Tinley Park Convention Center on June 3 and 4 will feature some of Chicago area’s top psychics, healers, mediums, natural health practitioners and more. Featured sessions include Crystals That Unleash the Hero Within, by Sandy Wilcox; Reclaim Your Youth the Natural Way, by Dr. Paul Ling Tai; Unleash the Spirit Animal In You, by Bluehawks; and more. Guests will enjoy some of the nation’s finest learning sessions and presentations featuring holistic and metaphysical professionals, the best in alternative health practices, wellness tools, products and resources, live music, mantras, sound healing, aromatherapy, essential oils and healthy vegetarian dishes.

Event organizers seek to awaken our sixth sense because they believe all humans are more alike than different, and by supporting the holistic community, humanity can transform the world one heart at a time.

Cost: $14 advance tickets through bmse.net. Location: 18451 Convention Center Dr., Tinley Park. For more information and advance tickets, visit bmse.net See ad on page 3.

Andrew Harvey

Photo courtesy of Infinity Foundation

I believe the choice to become a mother is the choice to become one of the greatest spiritual teachers there is.

~Oprah

‘A Story of Survival’ Meniere Symposium

Burcon Chiropractic Research Institute, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is celebrating 20 years of research and treatment of one-sided neurological disorders at an informative symposium hosted by Meniere’s Research Institute on June 10. Keynote speaker Michael T. Burcon, DC, is hailed by The Merck Manuals as the world’s leading expert on Meniere’s disease. All are welcome and can participate in one or more events.

Rhonda Tomasi will interview a Meniere’s patient at the Grand Rapids Community Media Center and streamed live on GRTV. Other Meniere’s patient practice members will join the panel discussion, followed by Q&A with Burcon. A gourmet lunch ($20) follows, then an invitation to tour the Institute on Lake Eastbrook from 2 to 6 p.m. Appetizers and desserts will be served and entertainment provided from 7 to 9 p.m. at the doctor’s home on Mill Creek, in Comstock Park.

New patients will be scanned and graphed with Tytron thermography and X-rayed (set of six) Friday afternoon, followed by dinner presentations for new doctors getting certified in The Burcon 10-Step Cervical Protocol, and re-checked and X-rayed (set of two) Sunday morning.

Cost for established patients and students is $50, caregivers $25.

For more information or tickets, call Jane Burcon between noon and 3 p.m. Mon.-Fri. at 616-575-9990 or visit BurconChiropractic.com See ad page 29.

Michael Burcon, M.D.

Photo courtesy of Burcon Chiropractic

women business owners!

The Philosopher’s Stone Apothecary

Founded 2022, Arlington Heights

We are your modern-day apothecary offering natural healing remedies and alternative healing services to help you reach your optimal mental, emotional, physical and spiritual balance for health recovery and wellness. We strive to make you feel supported on your healing journey, stressing the importance of staying grounded and listening to your inner guidance.

When it comes to self-care, what do you tell your clients?

With its modern take on Old World alchemy, we’re a destination for physical healing, therapeutic counseling and spiritual growth. Having various resources in one place and specialists who complement each other makes it more accessible. People are looking for alternative ways to feel better. Our goal is to bring these energy-healing resources together and to offer a more streamlined experience.

Why should our readers integrate your services into their lives?

The Apothecary is a hybrid retail boutique offering various healing products and services, including specialty items like herbs/spices, candles, stones/crystals, oils and inspirational gifts. Choose from acupuncture, reiki, yoga, meditation, life coaching and somatic healing in one location, along with nutrition and hydration coaching. Workshops, special events and weekly community healing circles help you connect with yourself and others.

224-735-2355

160 W. Campbell

Arlington Heights

PhilosophersStoneApothecary.com

Experience Increased Awareness and Energy Healing

Mary Walters, RN, EEM-CP, a registered nurse since 1994 with more than 20 years of experience in emergency settings, is a certified practitioner of Eden Energy Medicine, a reiki master teacher in Usui/Holy Love III, an animal reiki master practitioner and a frequency-specific, microcurrenttrained provider.

She founded EnergyGirl, LLC, in La Grange, with the main focus of increasing awareness and providing energy healing to humans and animals. Other goals are igniting a desire in people toward self-discovery and teaching them how to care for their energies while educating them about our highly energetic planet.

Walters believes education about energy healing is lacking from our current medical model which is why teaching classes is an important aspect of her business. In-person and online reiki classes are held throughout the year. Upcoming Introduction to Energy Medicine sessions include Calming Stress and Anxiety, Balancing Hormones and Releasing Pain.

For more information, call 708-703-0110. To schedule sessions/classes and receive a link to the EnergyGirl YouTube channel, visit EnergyGirl2020.com.

Location: 905 W. Hillgrove Ave., #6, La Grange. See ad on page 14, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com

Broad Experience Guides Dr. Angie Skokos

Angie Skokos, DC, MS, a licensed, board-certified chiropractor who has treated patients since 2002, of the ChiroCare Clinic Wellness Center, has extended her studies to help patients restore their health.

Skokos says, “Helping patients of all ages is my mission. A thorough evaluation will be obtained and X-rays and bloodwork may be performed to get to the source of the problem, whether you are suffering from migraine headaches, disc (back) problems, digestive issues or looking for stress relief to restore your health and wellness.”

Graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Benedictine University (1996), she earned a Doctor of Chiropractic degree (2002) from the National University of Health Sciences and holds certifications in acupuncture, kinesiotaping and the McKenzie Method for low back. Speaking Greek and Spanish, Skokos serves patients from many backgrounds. As an associate professor and attending clinician for 10 years within a chiropractic university, she was required to set an excellent example and deliver the highest quality of patient care.

Locations: 721 W. Lake St., #201, Addison; 693 N. Cass Ave., Westmont. For more information or to make an appointment, call 630-601-6932 or visit ChiroCareWellnessClinic.com See ad in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com

Virginia Gullo-Ciaccio

Mary Walters

Angie Skokos

Photo courtesy of Mary Walters

Photo courtesy of Angie Skokos

Men’s Wellness Series

Join Natural Awakenings and KnoWEwell for a life-changing series entitled The Healthy Man each Tuesday in June at 7 p.m. CDT.

TOPICS

n Lifestyle choices that add years to a man’s life and life to his years

n Tips to maintain youthful energy, a desired weight and a healthy libido

n Strategies for optimal eye health

n Good posture techniques for peak human performance and pain-free aging

n Habits that create resilient kids and a lasting legacy

SPEAKERS

n Ben Greenfield, human performance consultant and author of 17 books including Boundless Parenting

n Dr. Eric Plasker, chiropractor and author of The 100 Year Lifestyle

n Dr. Tracy Gapin, board-certified urologist and author of Male 2.0 and Codes of Longevity

n Dr. Krista Burns, chiropractor, founder of the American Posture Institute and author of The Posture Principles

n Christopher Smith, co-founder of Family Brand and the Campfire Effect, creating leaders at home and in business

n Dr. Bryce Appelbaum, board-certified optometrist and pioneer in neuro-optometry

n Dr. Tarin Forbes, board-certified integrative doctor specializing in anti-aging and metabolic medicine

n Dr. Alan Christianson, naturopathic endocrinologist specializing in thyroid disease and author of The Metabolism Reset Diet and The Thyroid Reset Diet

Admission is $59, which includes all Tuesday evening sessions and a one-year membership to KnoWEwell. To learn more and register, visit bewell.knowewell.com/129-8.html or scan the QR Code.

See ad on page 55.

Magic Hands Therapeutic Services

Founded 2016, Wheaton and Schaumburg

I offer effective light touch therapy to help you transform your pain and find comfort. I identify the tightness, assist it to release and keep you safe and comfortable as it does. Craniosacral Fascia Therapy (CFT)/Gillespie

Approach is both therapeutic and refreshing. You lie on the massage table, sit or stand in stretchy clothing.

When it comes to self-care, what do you tell your clients?

Stay hydrated. No, seriously, everything works much better when you are hydrated. Move around. Have a community. Get some sleep. The basics are the basics for a reason.

Why should our readers integrate your services into their lives?

Throughout the years, I have seen over and over the importance of touch in healing and comfort. Our bodies protect us, but can then store tightness from injury, trauma, your emotions and repetitive movements. CFT/Gillespie Approach is a gentle, highly effective technique that is both therapeutic and refreshing for babies, kids and adults.

Deb Lawrence, LMT

business owners!

EnergyGirl, LLC

Founded 2020, La Grange

HEALING

FOR YOU AND YOUR PETS

Magic Hands Therapeutic Services Helps Release Pain and Tightness

Helping adults, children and babies to release pain and tightness and find comfort through the Gillespie Approach, Deb Lawrence, LMT, offers effective, light touch therapy by identifying the tightness and assisting it to safely release, including tight fussy babies with nursing challenges, as well as children and adults with tightness and pain.

Walters

Mary Walters, a Registered Nurse with over 20 years in emergency settings, left traditional health care behind in 2018. Now she is a Certified Practitioner of Eden Energy Medicine, a Reiki Master in both Human and Animal Reiki and a provider of Frequency Specific Microcurrent used for physical and emotional issues. Both in her classes and sessions, she helps her clients become the best versions of themselves.

When it comes to self-care, what do you tell your clients?

Like you, my time is precious, so I choose the things that give me the most bang for that time. That’s why I love, love, love energy medicine! Simple energy exercises are super effective and energy healing has cumulative healing effects. Invest in YOU by energy testing your foods to see what YOUR body desires and HYDRATE!

Why should our readers integrate your services into their lives?

Everything that can go wrong in the body starts out energetically. Once your chronic energetic issues are discovered why wouldn’t you learn the best ways to remind your body how it’s supposed to be so symptoms diminish and well-being improves? Your energetic body is unique as is the care plan we create just for YOU.

Mary Walters, RN, EEM-CP

Certified Practitioner

Eden Energy Medicine

Animal Reiki Practitioner

EnergyGirl2020.com

See my ad on page 54

With a 40-year reputation for having magic hands, Lawrence has seen the importance of touch in healing and comfort. She advises, “Our bodies protect us, but can then store tightness from injury, trauma, emotions and repetitive motions.” Craniosacral Fascia Therapy/Gillespie Approach is a gentle, yet highly effective technique to loosen that tightness in combination with the skills she has learned through experience and training.

For more than 20 years, Lawrence has focused on assisting upwards of 500 birthing couples as an educator and labor doula, building a reputation for encouraging babies to move to a better birth position and loosening up tight babies after they are born.

Locations: 130 Willow, Wheaton; and 12 W. Schaumburg Rd., Schaumburg. For more information, call 630-202-3641 or visit MagicHandsBirth.com See ad on page 34 and in the Community Resource Guide.

Develop OsteoStrong Skeletal Strength for Better Health

OsteoStrong, in Schaumburg and Wilmette, is not a gym, diet, supplement, pharmaceutical or medical treatment, but rather a unique destination for improving overall health by focusing on the skeletal system. The foundation of the body provides more than just strength and protection—it’s one of our most critical systems—and by implementing a strategy to care for and strengthen it, we can experience life-changing results.

OsteoStrong works for people at all ages and levels of activity to promote skeletal strength using a process known as osteogenic loading. Sessions are quick and painless, and results are measurable and can happen quickly. These weekly, 10-minute, pain- and sweat-free sessions don’t leave clients sore the next day.

Improved bone density and posture, balance and athletic performance, along with less joint and back pain, are often the results. OsteoStrong is a biohack unlike any other health solution as it doesn’t require spending hours at a gym or exerting lots of physical energy that leave us feeling tired upon finishing.

Locations: 126 Skokie Blvd., Wilmette (224-408-2369); and 195 W. Golf Rd., Schaumburg (224-208-8616). For more information, visit OsteoStrong.me See ad on page 9, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com

Mary

Deb Lawrence

Photo courtesy of Magic Hands Therapeutic Services

Light Therapy for Autoimmune Symptoms

Fatigue is often reported as the most disabling symptom for people with autoimmune disorders, significantly impairing their physical, mental and social quality of life. Autoimmune researchers in Denmark, noting previous studies wherein bright light therapy significantly reduced fatigue related to traumatic brain injury and cancer, devised a study involving multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. The study was conducted as a randomized, sham-controlled trial of 26 people with MS that reported a Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) score greater than 36. Participants received either bright light therapy or a dim red light sham intervention for 30 minutes each morning for two weeks. The bright light therapy decreased FSS scores over the course of the study. However, this benefit occurred in the sham control group as well, highlighting the need for more research on the effects of light therapy on fatigue.

Ashwagandha May Improve Women’s Sexual Experience

Poor sexual function affects about 40 percent of women and may worsen their quality of life. Ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera) is a known adaptogenic herb that has been reported to improve sexual satisfaction, sleep and quality of life in women. Researchers in Mumbai set out to evaluate the efficacy and safety of standardized ashwagandha root extract in improving sexual function in healthy females.

A randomized, placebo-controlled study of 80 women between the ages of 18 and 50 with hypoactive sexual desire disorder and no other hormonal imbalances were given either 300 milligrams of ashwagandha root extract twice daily or a placebo for eight weeks. Sexual function, quality of life and safety were assessed. In comparison to the control group, the ashwagandha participants experienced statistically significant improvements in sexual desire, arousal and satisfaction; improved lubrication and orgasm; and less pain.

Benefits of Water Immersion During Birth

Water immersion during labor is an increasingly popular birthing option for healthy women that experience a straightforward pregnancy, labor spontaneously at full term and plan to give birth in a midwifery-led care setting. The process involves immersion in a birth pool to achieve relaxation and pain relief during the first and possibly part of the second stage of labor. The mother exits the pool for the actual birth, allowing the infant to emerge outside of the water. This method is different from a water birth, during which the woman remains in the pool as the infant emerges into the water and is then brought to the surface to initiate breathing.

In a new systematic review and meta-analysis published in BMJ Open, researchers compared the interventions and outcomes of water immersion, water birth and no-water-immersion births. After reviewing 36 studies encompassing the experiences of about 150,000 women, researchers found that water immersion significantly reduced the use of epidurals, injected opioids, episiotomy, maternal pain and postpartum hemorrhage. There was also an increase in maternal satisfaction and improved odds of an intact perineum with water immersion. Water births were associated with increased odds of the tearing of the umbilical cord from the placenta, making delivery of the placenta difficult, although the absolute risk remained low (4.3 versus 1.3 per 1,000). There were no differences in any other identified neonatal outcomes.

Reiki for People and Pets

According to a research study published in 2019 in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, just one session of reiki “improves multiple variables related to physical and psychological health.”

In private reiki practices across the United States, 99 trained and certified reiki masters conducted in-person reiki sessions for 1,411 persons for 45 or 90 minutes. Statistically significant improvements were noted regarding both positive and negative effects, pain, drowsiness, nausea, anxiety, depression and overall well-being.

Research studies regarding reiki’s effects on animals, however, are minimal. In the evidence-based information available, an article from 2021 on the American Kennel Club website states, “The number one primary benefit and response to reiki with animals is stress relief and deep relaxation.”

Reiki can help animals prepare for and recover from surgery. Reiki can help ease the dying process. Reiki can improve animal-human connections. It goes to show that the universally guided spiritual energy of reiki can help all creatures great and small.

Mary Walters, RN, EEM-CP, is the owner of EnergyGirl, LLC, She is a certified practitioner of Eden Energy Medicine, reiki master teacher-Usui/HolyFire III, animal reiki master practitioner and frequency-specific microcurrent trained provider. For more information, visit EnergyGirl2020.com See ad on page 14, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com

For women with PMS, pre-menopausal and menopausal concerns consider Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy to restore & maintain your hormone balance with hormones that are biologically identical to hormones produced by your own body.

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Women of all ages experiencing vaginal dryness, atrophy and related symptoms are candidates for Vitamin E topicals. Or, for a more natural approach, we carry NeuEve suppositories. Made from 100% all-natural, organic food grade ingredients free of gluten, petrochemicals and parabens. If you are post-menopausal with vaginal dryness and irritation, talk to your health-care provider about our estrogen-infused vaginal creams The addition of testosterone may provide a boost to your libido and restore intimacy in the near future and beyond.

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Old dogs can be a regal sight. Their exuberance settles over the years into a seasoned nobility, their routines become as locked into yours as the quietest and kindest of marriages.

~Gail Caldwell

SALUTE TO women business owners!

Chapel Hill Bodyworks

Founded 2006, Johnsburg and Fox Lake

We are a wellness center with two locations in McHenry and Lake county, that is known for therapeutic work incorporating therapeutic massage, cupping, craniosacral therapy, visceral manipulation, acupuncture, biofeedback, wellness coaching, nutrition and immune support. We also frequently host workshops that facilitate wellness and self-care!

When it comes to self-care, what do you tell your clients?

We absolutely encourage taking ownership in your own health and encourage movement applicable to everyone’s individual capabilities, as well as drinking plenty of water, which has been proven to flush out toxins from the body. Supplements are also recommended where applicable. Our self-care can sometimes be a referral to another practitioner within our center or outside of our space to ensure the client’s highest and best needs. Why should our readers integrate your services into their lives?

Over 95% of our existing clients are from word-of-mouth, referrals from their doctors, physical trainers, physical therapists or friends and family. Our center is over 17 years old with an excellent reputation for our work, our values and, of course, our results. If you’re looking to find a partner in wellness or just to de-stress, we are capable and grateful to accommodate you. We collaborate with other wellness practitioners for our clients’ optimal health.

815-578-8430 JOHNSBURG

224-908-3902 FOX LAKE

wellness@chbodyworks.com

chbodyworks.com

Scientists Invent Battery Made of Paper

Scientists have developed a water-activated, disposable , paper battery, according to a proof-of-concept study published in Scientific Reports The developers believe that their invention could be used to power a variety of low-power, single-use electronics, such as smart packaging, environmental sensors and medical diagnostic devices, thereby reducing their environmental impact.

The single-cell battery consists of one square centimeter of paper treated with salts. One side is printed with ink containing graphite flakes, which serves as the positive terminal, and the other side is printed with ink containing zinc powder to create the negative terminal. Another layer of ink containing graphite flakes and carbon black is applied over that, linking the battery’s positive and negative ends to two wires secured by wax.

When a few drops of water are added to the paper, the salts dissolve, releasing charged ions that spread across the paper to activate the battery. In tests, researchers were able to reach a stable 1.2 volts. (The voltage of a standard AA alkaline battery is 1.5 volts.) The battery’s performance decreased significantly after an hour when the paper dried. However, after two more drops of water were added, the battery maintained 0.5 volts for an additional hour.

Exploring the ‘Doomsday Glacier’

Roughly measuring the size of Florida, the Thwaites Glacier is one of the most rapidly melting ice formations in Antarctica, having retreated more than eight miles since the 1990s. Scientists refer to it as the “doomsday glacier” due to concern s about its collaps e, which could raise global sea levels by more than a meter, causing devastation along coastal cities and communities.

According to two papers published in the journal Nature, researchers are learning more about the driving forces behind the glacier’s rapid retreat, thanks in part to a robot deployed through a 600-meter-deep borehole in the glacier. Although melting has increased beneath the ice shelf, the current melt rate is slower than many computer models had estimated. A layer of fresh water between the bottom of the ice shelf and the ocean below slows the rate of melting along flat parts of the shelf.

Scientists discovered that the melting had produced a stepped topography across the bottom of the ice shelf, resembling a staircase, as well as cracks in the ice where rapid melting was taking place. “Our results are a surprise, but the glacier is still in trouble,” says Dr. Peter Davis, oceanographer at the British Antarctic Survey and lead author of one of the papers.

Betty Jarvi

How to Participate in International Compost Week

2023 International Compost Awareness Week (ICAW) is May 7 through 13, with the theme, “For Healthier Soil … Healthier Food, Compost!” The nonprofit Illinois Food Scrap & Composting Coalition (IFSCC), advancing diversion and composting of all organics in the state, is the largest and most comprehensive education initiative of the global compost community.

ICAW programming combines in-person and hands-on experiences with virtual discussions and presentations to reach diverse and widespread audiences at all stages of life and composting experience. The 2023 lineup includes a day of Adventures in Composting with farmers, gardeners and backyard composters around the state; a virtual International Cafe at which composting stories from around the world will be shared; a virtual Legislative Lunch and Learn; and multiple opportunities throughout the week to attend library programs and obtain finished compost.

Co-facilitator Kate Caldwell has a master’s degree in environmental biology and has been composting since the 1990s. As an interpretative naturalist with the Will County Forest Preserve for more than 20 years, she has made many zero waste presentations focused on ecological footprint, plastic and composting. Now retired, Caldwell is active in IFSCC and says, “Watch out world, I’m crazy.”

Co-facilitator Merleanne Rampale is a longtime champion of the many benefits of composting and compost use. She gives presentations and workshops on food waste reduction, diversion, recycling and composting, and works with schools, municipalities and other organizations in her role at a Chicagoland Solid Waste Management agency.

For a complete schedule and registration, visit IllinoisComposts.org

Health Conditions That Happen in the Breast

Platelet-Rich Fibrin for Natural-Looking Facial Rejuvenation

by Sheila Julson

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is generated from blood plasma, which is rich in platelets. Taken from a patient’s own blood, PRF is used to accelerate healing from surgical procedures. In recent years, biological dentists have been using PRF for skin rejuvenation, as well as healing bones after tooth extractions and other dental procedures.

Researcher and Doctor of Dental Surgery Richard Miron did extensive experimentation and research on PRF for surgical procedures. After years of research, Miron, an esteemed researcher of PRF, partnered with esthetic doctors for PRF aesthetic use. They now educate dentists to incorporate PRF into their practices. Doctor of Dental Surgery Bernice Teplitsky, of Wrigleyville Dental, in Chicago, partners with Miron’s CARE Aesthetics to offer PRF facial rejuvenation.

The procedure includes precision micro needling that creates micropores in the skin. The PRF is applied to the skin’s surface to help the skin reproduce collagen. Teplitsky pairs the PRF application with a Fotona laser that further smoothens and tightens the skin.

“The reason why we have wrinkles and sagging skin is because we lose elasticity and collagen as we age,” Teplitsky explains. “By adding collagen back into the skin, it’s a form of rejuvenation that results in a more youthful, healthy and glowing complexion.”

An advantage of having PRF therapy administered by a dentist, Teplitsky notes, is that dentists are educated to know facial anatomy, including the associated muscles, nerves and other structures. “As doctors, we are very well-versed in administering injections, and many are already using PRF for oral surgery.”

The PRF facial rejuvenation process begins with a simple blood draw. Then the blood is spun in a centrifuge to extract platelets. Teplitsky notes that Wrigleyville Dental uses a customized centrifuge designed by Miron that maximizes the amount of platelets extracted from the blood. They also use specific glass tubes instead of plastic to prevent plastic from shedding into the serum.

Teplitsky also uses a Fotona laser treatment called Smoothlase. This antiwrinkle procedure can tighten sagging skin using photothermal capabilities to initiate the formation

of new collagen. The PRF and laser can be used to enhance lips or facial muscles around the mouth for a better smile. It is also applied to sites where there are wrinkles, such as in the forehead, around the mouth or the space between the eyebrows, to gently tighten the skin. Teplitsky says the results look subtle and natural, unlike harsher therapies that result in a frozen, artificial appearance. Platelet-rich fibrin rejuvenation is generally administered in treatments three weeks apart so the skin has time to respond and rebuild naturally.

Nightlase, another Fotona laser treatment, is a dental procedure designed for people with sleep apnea or snoring issues. “Laser is used in back of throat,” she says. “Some people, particularly those with thicker neck sizes, have a low uvula, and their whole soft palate area sags downward, which affects breathing. With the laser, I can target these structures and tighten the tissues. This non-surgical procedure creates more space at the back of the throat, which is connected to the airway. This increased volume helps people breathe and sleep better.”

Nightlase can be used in conjunction with oral appliances or continuous positive air pressure (CPAP) machines. Nightlase treatment regimens vary by individual and require yearly maintenance for upkeep. “It helps people who snore and those that don’t sleep well to have a better night’s sleep. And bed partners are happier, too,” Teplitsky says.

Bernice Teplitsky, DDS, practices at Wrigleyville Dental, located at 3256 N. Ashland Ave., in Chicago. For more information, call 773-975-6666 or visit WrigleyvilleDental.com. See ad on pages 8, 25, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com

Sheila Julson is a freelance writer and contributor to Natural Awakenings magazines throughout the country.

Bernice Teplitsky, DDS

Photo credit Karen Kring

women business owners!

The Chakra Shoppe

Founded 2005, Chicago

Blanche Blacke founded The Chakra Shoppe in 2005 for like-minded souls to share a cup of chakra tea and find what they are seeking. Crystals, candles, blessing tools and services such as Chakra Analysis & Healing, Mediumship, Negative Energy Clearing, Reiki, Tarot & Akashic Readings and a great variety of classes.

When it comes to self-care, what do you tell your clients?

Spiritual energies that flow through the chakras is the foundation of physical and emotional well-being. Healing your energies and patterns allows for a better world. Thoughts and feelings vibrate through our field to all that is. Vibrating good things feels good and is good for everyone!

Why should our readers integrate your services into their lives?

Blanche is a master Chakra Healer with 26 years of professional experience facilitating private sessions and group classes. Her Chakra Healers Training Program has initiated many professional chakra healers. The Chakra Shoppe provides a great variety of classes, crystals, sound healing and her signature line of Chakra aromatherapy products for self-healing.

773-271-3054

5034 N. Lincoln Ave, Chicago

ChakraShoppe@gmail.com

ChakraShoppe.com

The Divine Messiness of Motherhood

by Marlaina Donato

T he pitter-patter of little feet is one of life’s most beautiful blessings, but motherhood has always been a challenging role. In today’s world, the calling is more complicated than ever, and the average Mama Bear has a lot on her many plates. Despite support systems, juggling it all is often an obstacle course moms navigate behind closed doors.

It’s okay to not be okay. Society tends to impose unnecessary guilt upon mothers for voicing what most parents feel at one time or another. Feelings are human, and so too is being overwhelmed. Selfcare enables us to nurture others, and it begins by being gentle with ourselves as we weave a tapestry of work, soccer games, homework and bedtime baths. Even when the threads are haphazard and tangled, it is healing to surrender to the realization that sometimes we cannot do it all, and it is not a sign of failure. Showing only the good days on social media or going on autopilot can add pressure, instead of peace.

“There’s no way to be a perfect mother and a million ways to be a good one,” says author Jill Churchill. Being a good mother begins by being good to ourselves, and it doesn’t require a miracle to make it happen. A few minor routine adjustments can renew sanity and energy:

n Take one minute to run comfortably hot water over your hands and relax into the stream. Hot water helps the body release dopamine, a neurotransmitter responsible for inducing joyful feelings, lessening pain and lifting anxiety.

n Instead of scrolling through social media, take 10 or 15 minutes to do nothing. Lie down on the floor, close your eyes and just breathe. Surrender completely to letting go; begin by relaxing facial muscles and work your way down to your toes.

n Play a favorite song and dance with your kids.

n Avoid overscheduling and “shoulds”.

Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowerLady.com

Blanche Blacke

Beaunitta

HolisticCenter

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SOLVING STRESS HOLISTIC TIPS FROM LIFESTYLE DOCTORS

by Linda Sechrist

Medicine is changing as a new class of doctors endeavors to treat the whole person rather than the symptoms of disease, helping their patients achieve optimal health with lifestyle changes, medicine, herbs, supplements and modalities tailored to the individual. No longer reaching for a prescription pad as often, these functional and integrative physicians are spending an average of 45 minutes per office visit. Using their sleuthing skills and innovative skillsets, they ask probing questions about a patient’s current lifestyle and history, pinpoint the root cause of a problem and craft customized solutions.

To help someone manage stress, a functional or integrative doctor may suggest a daily dose of herbal tea, nightly entries in a gratitude journal, a visualization practice, brisk walks, gardening, art therapy, mindful meditation, a nutrient-rich diet that reduces food allergies, yoga poses and regular sessions of qigong or tai chi. Armed with an extensive list of better-for-you choices than addictive, prescription sleeping pills or tranquilizers, individuals are empowered to improve

their health and eliminate stress. Studies suggest that 75 to 90 percent of illnesses are stress related. Getting to the root cause before it escalates into cardiovascular disease, depression or diabetes is what curious and compassionate doctors do.

“Because sleep is a great resolution to almost anything, it’s one of the first things I consider,” says Carrie Jones, a functional and naturopathic doctor in Portland, Oregon. “Stress can be physiological, caused by parasites, viruses, bacteria and toxins, as well as blood sugar imbalances. Not getting enough sleep, or poor sleep, is stressful to the body, which is on alert all the time.”

According to Jones, finding ways to coax the body into feeling safe can help people relieve stress and get a good night’s sleep. “People rarely realize that basic things such as joy, play, laughter and a community of supportive people have anything to do with feeling safe enough to sleep deeply. It’s why I inquire about those things,” she explains.

TIPS FOR SOUNDER SLUMBER

n Turn the thermostat down in the bedroom. A cool temperature combats insomnia.

n Snuggle under a weighted blanket. The gentle pressure signals the autonomic nervous system to go into rest mode.

n Install blackout shades. Light decreases melatonin, the sleep hormone.

n Avoid alcohol before bed, as it can disrupt the sleep cycle.

n Stop using electronics, including social media, television and phones, two hours before getting under the covers. The blue light emitted by screens restrains the production of melatonin.

Connecting and spending quality social time with friends helps to alleviate stress. Anna Cabeca, a triple board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist, advises, “Every day, stress causes the stress hormone cortisol to go up and oxytocin, the connecting hormone, to go down, lessening the desire to connect. It’s a double whammy for women in perimenopause and menopause, because hormones are declining, and stress overloads the already overtaxed endocrine system.”

Rebecca Hunton, personalized medicine doctor and founder of Radiantly Healthy MD, in Melbourne, Florida, coaches her patients to modify unhelpful habits. “I’m always looking for that one thing that patients can easily change. Sometimes it’s teaching them the difference between stress resilience and stress avoidance. A stress avoidance activity is spending two hours playing a game on your phone that leaves you beating yourself up and feeling like, ‘Why did I waste all that time?’ If, on the other hand, an activity leaves you feeling energized and wanting to tackle the other things on your to-do list, you just did a stress resilience activity,” says Hunton.

STRESS RESILIENCE ACTIVITIES

n Meditation

n Prayer

n Chanting a mantra

n Expressing creativity, such as cooking or painting

• Micro-Needling and PRF Facials result in glowing, younger looking skin using 100% natural and chemical-free methods. It is beneficial for wrinkles, scars and sun damage.

• Fotona Laser Treatment Rejuvenation stimulates collagen production to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is an evidence-based medical treatment that enhances the body’s healing process by providing oxygen to damaged tissues. This allows your natural defense mechanisms to fight infection, block the action of harmful bacteria and strengthen your immune system.

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Painless, non-invasive experience that works for all ages! Work, read, use a phone or just relax. 15-MIN

SALUTE TO women business owners!

Heal n Cure

Founded 2005, Glenview

Heal n Cure Medical Wellness Center has been delivering functional medicine to Chicagoland for 20-plus years. We take pride in helping our patients reclaim their health by identifying the root cause of disease and treating the underlying imbalance rather than the symptoms. We utilize cutting-edge diagnostic tools to achieve clarity on underlying disease processes. With a clear blueprint of your health in hand, our providers mentor you through your wellness journey.

When it comes to self-care, what do you tell your clients?

Dr. Meena feels passionately that you cannot give what you don’t have. In flights under emergency situations, the crew recommends that you put on your own oxygen mask before you assist anyone else. In the same way, unless you invest in self-care, you will not be able to sustain rendering to your family, work and community.

Why should our readers integrate your services into their lives?

I think our patients say it the best… “Dr. Meena and her team are the best! I had been searching for answers for how I have been feeling for several years.... The best part is that I’ve been able to get answers to everything I was feeling and determine how to correct for it, without using medicine, but rather nutrition, vitamins and minor lifestyle changes...” ~ AS

847-686-4444

2420 Ravine Way, Ste 400 Glenview

HealnCure.com

Carol Penn is a dual board-certified physician and movement coach in New Jersey. While observing her 87-year-old father practicing qigong, a form of meditation in motion, she had an epiphany and saw a powerful life lesson occurring before her eyes. “Moving with strength and grace through his practice so close to the end of his life, it occurred to me that he was role-modeling what it would be like for me to be kind to my future self. I teach my patients from this perspective, visualizing their future selves full of health, vitality, wonder and awe,” says the author of Meditation in a Time of Madness

Qigong has psychological and physical components, regulating the mind, body movement, breath and posture. “It balances and calms the autonomic, sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems so that you feel less stress upon completion of the practice. Movements are designed to build longevity on a cellular level,” Penn explains.

According to Lorraine Maita, a board-certified functional and integrative doctor in New Jersey, “The body sends out hormonal fight-or-flight signals when it’s distressed. In the initial stages, there’s a release of adrenaline, followed by cortisol, keeping your body on high alert. To most people, stress is just worry, and they’re thinking they’re handling it, but stress can be like a viral program running in the background all the time. It’s still there whether you’re reacting to it or not, whether you’re stuffing it under the surface or not. It’s why you go to therapy with mental stress, or why you need someone to talk to for processing it.”

Maita is a proponent of alternative modalities that help people modulate the stress response. “I recommend HeartMath to my patients, which is self-regulation technology based on more than 32 years of scientific research on the psychophysiology of stress, resilience and the interactions between the heart and brain,” says the author of Vibrance for Life: How to Live Younger and Healthier.

Jaquel Patterson, a naturopathic physician and medical director of Fairfield Family Health, in Connecticut, might determine if her patient is suffering from chronic stress by testing their saliva for cortisol levels in the morning and evening. Noting that her favorite teas for sleep and relaxation are chamomile and passionflower, she explains that passionflower is for someone that can’t fall asleep because there’s a radio playing in their head. “For dealing with stress, I like adaptogens, such as Siberian ginseng, rhodiola rosea, ashwagandha, holy basil and L-theanine. The stress response requires a lot of B vitamins, along with magnesium and vitamin C,” she says.

Citing Hal Elrod’s book The Miracle Morning, Patterson recommends starting every day with a set of stress-relieving rituals Elrod calls “Life S.A.V.E.R.S.” She explains, “S is for silence, like meditation. A is for affirmations. V is for visualization, so you can visualize how your day is going to be. E is for exercise. R is for reading, and S is for scribing, writing things in a journal.”

Pointing out the differences between stress and anxiety, Patterson notes that anxiety is a continual rumination of thoughts, second-guessing and overthinking. Anxiety can cause stress, but stress can occur without anxiety. People with high anxiety sometimes have heart palpitations. Some stress is good for us. Without any stressors, Patterson cautions, we are unmotivated, lethargic and lacking in enthusiasm.

TECHNOLOGICAL SOLUTIONS TO QUIET THE ANXIOUS MIND

n Reflect Orb: This handheld biofeedback device can help an individual self-monitor their body’s physiology and learn to control the involuntary body-mind connection.

n Meditation apps: Insight Timer, Calm and similar apps offer guided meditations, relaxing music videos and meditation instruction for newbies and experienced practitioners.

n YouTube videos: Look for musical compositions with energy frequencies and binaural beats that encourage relaxation, promote positivity and decrease anxiety.

Linda Sechrist has been a contributing writer to Natural Awakenings publications for almost 20 years.

Meena Malhotra, M.D.

FIVE TENSION TAMERS TO Help Ease Stress

by Meena Malhotra, M.D.

Stress is ubiquitous. The release of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol help us cope with immediate challenges. But when the level of stress becomes chronic or goes beyond what our bodies can handle, it can compromise physical, emotional and mental well-being, which makes it harder to handle future stress. These quick and simple tips make it easy for us to change our response to stressors and live a more positive, fulfilling life. Using these techniques can help train our bodies how to react to friendly and not-so-friendly stressors. Tension tamers can assist in turning off the alarm response and turning on the relaxation response, which helps us return to normal functioning following a stressful event.

BREATHE FROM THE BELLY

Sit in a comfortable position and take a few deep breaths by expanding the belly, rather than lifting the shoulders. Releasing physical tension and increasing oxygen intake calms us quickly, even if stressful events continue.

SPRING INTO ACTION

Change the scenery and change our perspective, indoors or outdoors. Walking gets our blood circulating and helps us blow off steam so we can return to a new frame of mind. Even a short burst of exercise like running up several flights of stairs or doing several sets of push-ups or abdominal crunches can reduce stress. Exercise helps deliver more oxygen to the brain and distracts us from stress to provide a fresh perspective on the situation. Even simple stretching can help bring a little relief.

TAKE A BREAK

Whether we listen to music, dance or enjoy a hearty laugh, it is calming for our nerves. Softer music, alone or combined with yoga, guided imagery or soaking in the tub can help relax tense muscles. Upbeat music can help lift our mood or keep us energized. Dancing to a favorite tune or singing along can transport us to a stress-free zone. We can move our gaze away from a workstation to visualize ourself in a favorite space, doing our favorite things or being with our favorite people. Maintaining a sense of humor reminds us that our stressors may not be as menacing as they seem. Purchase or download a laugh track, cartoons, jokes or a favorite comedy TV

show or movie to enjoy when we’re feeling overwhelmed. It renews the spirit and breaks the stress response quickly.

WRITE IN A JOURNAL

For those that like to write, journaling clarifies our thoughts and feelings for increased self-knowledge. Putting the experience on paper gets if off our mind and helps to refocus—and teaches us how to cope the next time it happens.

POWER NAP

Midday sleep gives us more patience, better reaction time, increased learning, more efficiency and better health. If we only have five minutes to spare, we can just close our eyes. Even brief rest reduces stress and helps us relax.

For more help with dealing with stress it’s important to understand how the brain is communicating with the body at a deeper level. This can be done by testing neurotransmitters in urine. Neurotransmitter balance can be restored by working with a healthcare provider in a structured systematic fashion which addresses gut health, detoxification and optimization of hormones.

To contact Dr. Meena Malhotra, M.D., medical director at Heal n Cure, located at 2420 Ravine Way, Ste. 400, in Glenview, call 847-686-4444 or visit HealnCure.com See ads on page 2, page 26, in the Community Resource Guide and in the Business Directory at NAChicago.com.

Photo by Siam for Adobe Stock

First Signs of Menopause

HOW TO RESOLVE VAGINAL DRYNESS

by Linda Sechrist

When The New York Times and National Geographic cover the subject of menopause in the same calendar year, perhaps it’s a sign that the inevitable phase of a woman’s life that ushers in vaginal dryness, irregular periods, hot flashes, brain fog, mood swings, night sweats, sleep problems, decreased sex drive and weight gain is finally getting the attention it deserves.

Solutions for women experiencing perimenopause, menopause and post-menopause are not covered in medical school. Instead, they stem from the work of pioneers like Dr. Pamela Wartian Smith, author of What You Must Know About Women’s Hormones: Your Guide to Natural Hormone Treatments for PMS, Menopause, Osteoporosis, PCOS, and More, and Dr. Christiane Northrup, who wrote Women’s Bodies, Women’s Wisdom: Creating Physical and Emotional Health and Healing.

Today, integrative and functional doctors, researchers and continuing education instructors are leading the charge to provide innovative and customized answers for women experiencing vaginal dryness and other hormone-related symptoms.

The earliest sign of changes occurs between the ages of 40 to 44, during perimenopause, and according to Dr. Lindsey Berkson, author of Safe Hormones, Smart Women, vaginal dryness is the flashing red light. “A sign of insufficient hormone signaling, vaginal dryness is the body’s warning that bones are beginning to thin; the brain’s structure,

activity and neuron connectivity are beginning to decline; and the aging process has begun,” she explains.

A continuing-education instructor for doctors and pharmacists, Berkson notes, “The vagina doesn’t exist alone. Treating only the vagina is minimized medicine. It’s so important to find a doctor who practices functional medicine, has completed continuing-education hours in hormone replacement therapy and nutrition, and has experience in these areas.”

Dr. Meena Malhotra , a double board-certified internist practicing functional and integrative medicine for 27 years, understands that vaginal tissue is hormone-dependent, and dryness left untreated can lead to urinary tract infections that can progress to kidney infections. “Atrophic vaginitis with dryness, itching and burning doesn’t happen overnight; it happens gradually. Many women who are not seeing a gynecologist regularly for checkups are unaware of the gradual decrease of their progesterone and estrogen,” advises the founder of the Heal n Cure Medical Wellness Center, in Glenview, Illinois.

“Women generally self-treat sexual discomfort from dryness first with self-prescribed, over-the-counter gels, suppositories and creams, which are temporary fixes,” Malhotra says. “Functional medicine, which allows for longer appointments, in-depth intake and more intimate conversations, can determine the root cause of vaginal dryness, which can be treated early with FormaV, a non-surgical, painless rejuvenation procedure which tightens loose labia, improves vaginal health and makes sexual intimacy desirable again.”

Known as “the girlfriend doctor”, triple board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist Anna Cabeca has been in practice for 23 years and is the author of The Hormone Fix: Burn Fat Naturally, Boost Energy, Sleep Better, and Stop Hot Flashes, the Keto-Green Way Recognizing that many over-the-

counter lubricants perpetuate dryness and create damage to the tissue, she formulated her own products. “Inflammation can happen because of a reaction to the ingredients in the lubricant. I tell my patients that they can make their own lubricant using organic coconut oil mixed with aloe vera gel and a few drops of an essential oil that turns their partner on. They can also strengthen the pelvic floor with Kegel exercises and eat a keto-green diet,” Cabeca suggests.

Dr. Rebecca Hunton , the founder of Radiantly Healthy MD, in Melbourne, Florida, believes that treating the changes in a woman’s body is a form of personalized medicine. “Every woman’s journey is different, but generally before vaginal dryness comes progesterone deficiency. Symptoms include trouble falling asleep, anxiousness and moodiness,” she says, adding that not all vaginal dryness is hormone-related, as an autoimmune disorder could also be a cause.

Hunton recommends, “ Starting early with a transdermal progesterone cream can mitigate some dryness, but at a certain point, progesterone won’t suffice. There are nonsurgical treatments such as MonaLisa Touch, a laser treatment that brings the tissue in the vagina to a more youthful state. It needs to be repeated every 18 months to two years.”

These doctors all agree that women no longer have to power through the changes. There are answers. As Cabeca asserts, “This is a time that heralds a second spring of our lives and should be a beautiful journey.”

Linda Sechrist is a senior writer for Natural Awakenings.

Acupuncture and Integra�ve Medicine

Taking Control of Our Hormones

NUTRITIONAL TIPS TO SUPPORT THE DELICATE BALANCE

by Sheila Julson

Think of hormones as the body’s messengers, sending signals that affect a host of functions. Produced by the pancreas, thyroid and other endocrine glands and organs, hormones drive our metabolism, impact mood, regulate blood pressure, manage our sleep cycles, influence sexual function and more. Key players are insulin, cortisol, thyroid and growth hormones, adrenaline, estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. Keeping these hormones in proper balance is critical for health, and imbalances can lead to a wide range of effects, including diabetes, thyroid disease, unintended weight fluctuations, skin problems, fatigue, mood swings and infertility. While inactivity, stress, age and genetics impact hormone production, our food choices can significantly tip the scales.

Dr. Ann Lee is a naturopathic doctor and licensed acupuncturist based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. When treating hormonal, thyroid and adrenal imbalances, she says it is important to focus on foods that provide the minerals and vitamins that support those systems. For women of all ages, she recommends blueberries, asparagus, lettuce, celery and papaya. Teens and women in their 20s can also benefit from apples, bananas, mangoes, avocados, cauliflower, broccoli, cucumbers, sweet potatoes and most lettuce varieties. The nutrients in these vegetables and fruits become even more important as women reach 30 and for those dealing with menopause, so Lee recommends more frequent consumption of these fresh, whole foods to support the adrenal and thyroid glands.

According to Lee, it is equally important to avoid foods that interfere with hormonal nutrition. She advises women over 50 to lower their caffeine intake. Dairy products contain naturally occurring hormones that can impede human hormone balance and should be eaten in moderation. “The less external hormonal exposure you have, the easier it is for your own hormones to balance,” Lee explains.

Despite the popularity of intermittent fasting, Lee believes that the trendy eating pattern can deny the body the vitamins and minerals it needs, causing it to produce more adrenalin and cortisol to make up for the loss. “People do intermittent fasting because it might feel good to have more adrenalin, and thus more energy, but it does come at a price—your hormones,” she says.

Most of the foods Lee recommends are low in calories. “In order to curb hunger, you have to eat them regularly, and that goes against intermittent fasting. People that do intermittent fasting often focus on proteins and fats, so they don’t have to eat for a long time, but that can cause adrenal burnout because the body is not getting what it needs,” she explains, noting that avocados and potatoes tend to help people feel full longer.

Jaclyn Downs is a functional nutrigenomics practitioner in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and author of Enhancing Fertility Through Functional Medicine: Using Nutrigenomics to Solve ‘Unexplained’ Infertility She notes that for hormones to be produced by the body, nutritional cofactors or “helper nutrients” are required. “Magne-

KALE AND TEMPEH TACOS

In this yummy, low-carb taco recipe, cabbage leaves substitute for the tortillas and are filled with a mixture of protein-packed tempeh, veggies and lots of great spices. Compounds in tempeh called isoflavones serve as a natural remedy for menopausal relief.

YIELD: 2 SERVINGS

1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

1 small onion, chopped

2 garlic cloves, chopped

4 oz tempeh, cubed

½ tsp sea salt or more, to taste

½ tsp black pepper or more, to taste

½ tsp ground cumin

½ tsp chili powder

¼ tsp paprika

¼ tsp cayenne

¼ cup vegetable broth

2 cups stemmed and chopped fresh kale

4 to 6 large, green cabbage leaves, dipped for 30 seconds into hot water to soften

½ avocado, sliced

1 radish, sliced

¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

½ lime, cut into wedges

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, garlic and tempeh and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes

translucent. Add the salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, paprika and cayenne, stir, then add the broth and kale. Stir again to combine and cook until the broth thickens and reduces by at least one-half. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

Spread the cabbage leaves open on a large plate. Spoon the kale mixture into the center of the leaves. Add some of the avocado, radish slices and cilantro, then fold in the sides like a taco.

Serve with lime wedges.

Adapted from MenuPause. Copyright © 2022 by Dr. Anna Cabeca. Used by permission of Rodale Books, an imprint of Random House, a division of Penguin Random House LLC, New York. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.

sium, zinc and B vitamins are a few of the spark plugs that move these processes and keep the wheels spinning,” she emphasizes. “Grass-fed beef liver or capsules contain all of these.”

According to Downs, menstrual problems can be an indicator of eventual fertility issues. To support female reproductive hormones, she recommends cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, broccoli sprouts, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. These foods also support liver detoxification pathways due to their high concentrations of vitamins and sulfur. “The liver helps clear used or ‘dirty’ hormones,” she notes.

Downs also recommends pomegranates, which are rich in antioxidants and fight inflammation-producing free radicals. Healthy fats from cold-water, wild-caught fish support pregnant women and growing fetuses. “Folate is often emphasized as a nutrient for pregnant women, but choline is just as important for everybody, regardless of life stage or gender,” Downs notes. Choline is found in egg yolks, sunflower lecithin and shiitake mushrooms. For 50-plus women, Downs prescribes fish or high-quality fish oil, which can benefit brain, liver and hormonal health.

Sheila Julson is a freelance writer and contributor to Natural Awakenings.

cabe/Courtesy of Random House

the plant-based kitchen…

GADO GADO

by Brenda Davis, RD, Vesanto Melina, MS, RD, and Cory Davis, MPA, PAg

Gado Gado is one of Indonesia’s five national dishes. It consists of vegetables that are raw or steamed until crisp-tender, plus tofu or tempeh. Then it’s topped with a spicy peanut sauce. Give the dish a healthy lift by baking, rather than frying the tofu or tempeh and omitting the oil in the sauce. Get creative with the vegetables and include local and seasonal choices.

Unhealthy Western dietary patterns, characterized by highly processed foods, red and processed meat, high-fat dairy products, high-sugar foods, sweet drinks and alcohol, are consistently associated with adverse health outcomes, including negative impacts on hormones and stress. Whole-plant foods such as vegetables, fruits, legumes (beans, lentils, split peas), whole grains, nuts and seeds, are rich in fiber and phytonutrients. These foods can help correct hormonal imbalances, reduce inflammation and improve the health of the gut microbiome.

Soy foods such as unsweetened soy milk, edamame, tofu and tempeh can also be beneficial. They help reduce insulin levels, reduce symptoms of menopause and decrease the risk of some cancers. Soy foods have also been reported to reduce biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in women with PCOS. These recipes are rich in colorful, phytonutrient-dense whole foods and include a healthy dose of soy.

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

12 oz firm tofu or tempeh, cut into ¾-inch cubes

1 Tbsp low-sodium or regular tamari

1 tsp salt-free seasoning blend of choice

½ tsp ground turmeric

2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed

2 cups cut green beans

2 cups broccoli florets and pieces

4 cups chopped leafy greens (such as bok choy, kale or collards)

2 cups mung bean sprouts

2 cups finely shredded red cabbage

2 carrots, shredded

1 cucumber, thinly sliced

1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips

OPTIONAL TOPPINGS

½ cup sliced green onions

½ cup chopped fresh cilantro, lightly packed

¼ cup crushed unsalted dry-roasted peanuts

Lime wedges

Hot sauce

To make the tofu or tempeh, preheat the oven to 350° F. Line a medium baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper. Put the tofu or tempeh in a medium bowl. Coat with the tamari, seasoning blend and turmeric. Transfer the tofu or tempeh to the prepared baking sheet. Bake the tofu or tempeh for 20 minutes, or until crispy. Transfer it to a medium bowl.

Steam the vegetables in two batches. Start by steaming the sweet potatoes for 2 minutes. Add the green beans and steam for 2 minutes. Add the broccoli and steam for 4 minutes. Arrange the sweet potatoes, green beans and broccoli on a large platter or on individual plates.

Steam the leafy greens for 2 minutes. Add the bean sprouts and steam for 1 minute. Arrange the leafy greens, bean sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cucumber, bell pepper and tofu or tempeh on the platter. Serve with the optional toppings of your choice. Top with Gado Gado Sauce or pass the sauce at the table.

Photo credit Hannah Kaminsky

from the gluten-free kitchen…

GADO GADO SAUCE

This spicy peanut sauce is the topping for Gado Gado. However, it also pairs perfectly with salads, power bowls and wraps. Tahini replaces the more traditional sesame oil used in peanut sauce, and dates replace the sugar.

YIELDS: ONE-AND-A-HALF CUPS

¾ cup very hot water

½ cup peanut butter

2 pitted medjool dates, or 6 pitted deglet noor dates

2 Tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice

2 Tbsp tahini

1 Tbsp low-sodium or regular tamari

1 tsp tamarind paste (optional)

1 tsp chopped fresh ginger

2 cloves garlic

2 small hot chiles, or ½ tsp hot sauce

Put the water, peanut butter, dates, lime juice, tahini, tamari, optional tamarind paste, ginger, garlic and hot chiles in a blender and process on high speed until smooth. Use immediately or chill before serving. Stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator, the sauce will keep for 5 days.

Tip: Although the tamarind paste is optional, it gives this sauce a more authentic flavor. Because the sauce thickens with refrigeration, thin it with water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.

Recipe adapted with permission from Plant-Powered Protein: Nutrition Essentials and Dietary Guidelines for All Ages, by Davis, B., and V. Melina, and C. Davis, Healthy Living Publications© 2023.

Mint Juice

by Tiffany Hinton

Mint is a perennial that easily grows in our area. A hardy plant that overwinters, this herb spreads a little more each year via its root system, and without careful watch, it can become invasive. Some gardeners advise containing mint by planting it in a raised bed or large flower pot. The mint plant likes areas with moist soil, so if the plant is grown in a flower pot, it will need to be kept well-watered.

The mint plant is native to Europe, although it can be found in many backyards. The easiest way to identify mint is with the smell of the leaves when broken. The plant is about one to three feet tall and has smooth, square stems and dark green, opposing leaves with reddish veins. The leaves have coarsely toothed margins and a pointed tip. Mint blooms in mid- to late summer, typically with purple flowers that are attractive to bees. Many varieties are available, including peppermint, spearmint and variants like lemon, orange and chocolate mint, to name a few. Mint can be planted from seed, rooted from a cutting, easily divided from an existing plant or bought as a whole plant.

Mint leaves and stems are edible, and

they have been used throughout the ages to aid in various ailments, including headaches, stomach problems, arthritis and appetite suppression. Some of the earliest medicinal references to mint go back more than 3,000 years, when it was used by the ancient Egyptians, Romans and Greeks for a variety of ailments.

This is a fun summer beverage that even the kids will love.

7 cups water

2 cups honey

1 cup fresh mint leaves

Heat all ingredients in a large pot until just beginning to boil, then remove from heat and cover for 15 minutes to allow the infusion to steep. Strain and store in airtight jars in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Note: For a vegan substitute, use 1½ cups white sugar.

Recipe courtesy of Tiffany Hinton, founder of Cultivating Guts. Connect online at @iamtiffanyhinton and listen to her podcast, Cultivating Guts, on Spotify or iTunes.

Photo CreditPhoto 51559818 / Mint Juice © Ferli Achirulli Kamaruddin

We should all be eating fruits and vegetables as if our lives depend on it— because they do.

~Michael Greger

Digestive Health Solutions

Founded 2005, TeleHealth

Too many people aren’t finding the solutions to their health issues, and that’s why I am so passionate about this work. They have tried various approaches and are confused with the conflicting information that exists about nutrition and digestive health.

Each body is biochemically unique. The diet and supplementation that works for one person may not work for another. I take an individualized, science-based approach to figuring out my clients’ unique digestive and nutritional needs and help them restore their bodies’ balance, naturally.

Getting you feeling better and empowering you to make choices that will better your well-being is my top priority.

To your health!

When it comes to self-care, what do you tell your clients?

Listen to your body! Try to take at least five minutes a day to “unplug” from electronics and do a little deep breathing.

Why should our readers integrate your services into their lives?

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Balancing how your body digests food and absorbs nutrition is a great start to a healthier life.

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from the plant-based kitchen…

Healthy Chickpea Cakes

MAKE A GREAT PLANT-BASED LUNCH OR DINNER

by Veronica Hinke

These plant-based Vegan Chickpea Cakes with Roasted Carrot-Mint Mash are a health-conscious option for Cinco de Mayo and beyond. Chickpeas and carrots contain calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and vitamin B6. The spices and herbs add flavor to the chickpeas. The carrot mash brings color as bright as nacho cheese dip to this meal. Serve this as a side dish, party appetizer or enjoy it as a nutritious, quick lunch.

VEGAN CHICKPEA CAKES WITH ROASTED CARROT-MINT MASH

YIELDS: 12 CHICKPEA CAKES

For the Chickpea Cakes:

3 16-oz cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 10-oz can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained and rinsed

1 cup crushed club crackers

½ cup chopped fresh mint

Juice of 1 fresh lime

2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 Tbsp diced red bell pepper

½ Tbsp diced shallot

1 garlic clove, minced

½ tsp ground cumin

½ tsp ground mustard seed

¼ tsp hot Hungarian paprika

¼ tsp hot pepper flakes

¼ tsp pink Himalayan sea salt

¼ tsp freshly ground multi-color peppercorns

For the Roasted Carrot-Mint Mash:

4 cups chopped carrots

½ cup extra virgin olive oil, plus ½ cup for blending in the food processor

½ tsp pink Himalayan sea salt

½ tsp freshly ground multi-color peppercorns

1 cup chopped fresh mint, plus ½ cup for garnish

½ tsp cumin

½ tsp ground mustard seed

¼ tsp hot Hungarian paprika

Juice of one fresh lime

Preheat the oven to 375° F.

In a large mixing bowl, use a masher to mash the chickpeas. Add the rest of the ingredients. Use one hand to mix the ingredients together just until they are well blended. Be careful not to overmix.

Place a 3-inch-round cookie cutter on top of a 9-by-12-inch baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Fill the cookie cutter ½-inch-high with the mixture. Pat down the mixture on the top. Ensure that the mixture presses up the sides of the cookie cutter all around. Lift the cookie cutter, and repeat this with the remainder of the mixture.

Place the chickpea cakes in the oven, and bake them until they are light golden brown and start to become crispy around the edges, about 35 to 40 minutes. Remove the cakes from the oven, and set them aside until it is time to assemble.

Place each chickpea cake on a plate with a smear of the Roasted Carrot-Mint Mash. Garnish with fresh mint.

Photo credit Veronica Hinke

Reneé Barasch

To make the Roasted Carrot-Mint Mash: Preheat the oven to 375° F. In a medium mixing bowl, toss the carrots in the 2 Tbsp of extra-virgin olive oil, salt and pepper.

Place the carrots in the oven and let them roast until they become tender enough that they can easily be pierced with a fork, about 35 to 40 minutes.

Remove the carrots from the oven, and set them aside until they are cool enough to pulse in the food processor, about 10 minutes. Place the carrots, olive oil, mint, spices, and lime juice in the food processor. Pulse until the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the carrot mixture becomes the consistency of a mash. Stop after every few pulses to scrape the edges of the inside of the food processor to ensure that all of the carrot mixture is incorporated well.

Veronica Hinke is an author, speaker, journalist, coach and expert on Titanic stories, food, history and style; and author of The Last Night on the Titanic. Learn more at VeronicaHinke.com

Photo credit Veronica Hinke

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When it comes to self-care, what do you tell your clients?

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Skin Fitness

DAILY ROUTINES FOR A RADIANT APPEARANCE

by David J. Sautter

Photo

Lee Padgett

While many of us work out to tone our muscles, we may be neglecting the largest organ in the body: our skin. Every day, it is exposed to a variety of irritants, including ultraviolet rays, air pollution, extreme weather and highly processed foods. Stress can also cause skin irritations and conditions. To serve its important functions and look healthy, our skin needs a fitness regimen. With a few daily routines, lifestyle modifications and coping strategies, a radiant appearance is within reach.

SKIN CONDITIONS EXACERBATED BY STRESS

ACNE: When we are stressed, our body releases cortisol, a hormone that stimulates the production of pore-clogging oils, which can lead to the formation of acne. Stress also triggers inflammation, which can worsen existing acne.

PREMATURE AGING: Stress can accelerate the aging process by reducing the skin’s elasticity and causing wrinkles and fine lines. It triggers the production of free radicals, precipitating damage to collagen and elastin fibers, which are responsible for keeping the skin firm and supple. When they are damaged, the skin becomes saggy.

CHRONIC CONDITIONS: Stress can trigger or worsen skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and rosacea, which are characterized by inflammation, dryness and itching.

LIFESTYLE TIPS TO IMPROVE SKIN HEALTH

GET ENOUGH SLEEP. A good night’s sleep is essential for skin health. It also helps reduce the impact of daily stress. Aim for no less than seven hours of shut-eye each night.

EXERCISE REGULARLY. Getting our bodies moving is essential to reduce stress levels and improve skin health by increasing blood flow, nutrient delivery and oxygenation to the skin.

EAT A HEALTHY DIET. “An anti-inflammatory diet full of fruits, veggies and healthy fats like those from seeds and nuts will help to keep skin healthy,” says Jennifer Scheinman, a registered dietitian and nutrition coach. “Foods rich in omega-3 fats like

salmon and walnuts are great for skin health since they have natural anti-inflammatory properties, and the fats help to keep skin moisturized.”

PRACTICE STRESS-RELIEVING TECHNIQUES. Engage in activities that help manage stress, such as yoga, meditation or deep-breathing exercises.

APPLY SKIN-CARE PRODUCTS DESIGNED FOR THE PERSON’S SKIN TYPE. According to Dr. Trevor Cates, author of Clean Skin From Within and Natural Beauty Reset, “The most important care tip is to find skin care with mild acidity [4.5 to 5.4 pH] and natural actives [plant-based extracts] that support the skin microbiome. A healthy skin microbiome means less chance for breakouts, blemishes and premature aging.”

According to Dr. Anne Marie Fine, author of Cracking the Beauty Code, “Air pollution has been demonstrated to prematurely age the skin and cause age spots. This is why you want to make sure to consume antioxidants and use antioxidant-containing, clean skin-care products.”

THERAPIES TO ENHANCE THE SKIN

RED-LIGHT THERAPY DEVICES use infrared light to stimulate collagen production, improve circulation and promote healing. This reduces wrinkles, fine lines, age spots and other signs of aging.

MICROCURRENT FACIAL TOOLS use low-level electrical currents to stimulate facial muscles, helping to tone, reduce puffiness and promote a youthful appearance.

LASERS DESIGNED FOR HOME USE offer a safe way to treat various skin issues such as wrinkles, acne scars, sun damage and pigmentation problems. They can also help even out skin tone by stimulating collagen production in the deeper layers of the skin.

GUA SHA is an ancient Chinese technique that involves gently scraping the surface of the skin with a special tool to increase blood flow, promote healing and reduce puffiness and inflammation.

OXYGEN TREATMENTS infused into pores using a special device can help nourish skin cells, decrease inflammation, reduce wrinkles and improve overall complexion.

FACIAL ACUPUNCTURE involves inserting tiny needles into specific points to stimulate energy flow, which may improve circulation, reduce tension and promote smoother skin.

FACIAL MASSAGE reduces wrinkles by stimulating collagen production in the deeper layers of the skin. It promotes circulation, drainage and toning.

David J. Sautter is a certified personal trainer specializing in fitness nutrition and sports conditioning, as well as a professional fitness writer. Learn more at WriteFit.com

Photo courtesy of Dr. Anna Cabeca

Gardening Therapy

HEALING MIND, BODY AND SPIRIT IN THE YARD

by Sheryl DeVore

Gardening outdoors adds color and texture to yards and neighborhoods and, with the right plants, attracts pollinators, whose numbers are declining. It also can improve human health. The exercise, sunshine and fresh air promote mental and physical health, and so does our contact with soil microbes and the harmonious patterns of nature.

HollyHarryAdobeStock.com

“Being in the sunlight is a great way to get vitamin D, which is linked to mood and well-being. We spend so much time inside, where our perspective and thoughts can close around us. Getting outdoors can improve mindfulness and the sense of being in the moment, especially when we leave our phones inside,” says Pennsylvania-based psychologist Seth J. Gillihan, author of Mindful Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: A Simple Path to Healing, Hope and Peace.

In a study of the health and well-being benefits of allotment gardening published in the Journal of Public Health, researchers measured the mood, self-esteem and general health markers of people given plots for gardening versus those that didn’t garden at all. The scientists found that the gardeners displayed significantly better self-esteem and experienced less depression and fatigue. The top three reasons participants gave for enjoying their time tinkering in the soil were: being outdoors and having contact with nature (70 percent); feeling a sense of achievement (50 percent); and having the opportunity for restoration and stress relief (35 percent).

Cultivating our outdoor space also gives us a healthy perspective, helping us to accept our limitations and better understand our place in nature. “It’s easy to see in the garden how many things are outside of our control, such as rain, temperature and pests. We can do our best, but at some point, we need to let go,” Gillihan notes, adding that learning to let go is a lesson we can apply to other aspects of our lives. When he faced a long-term illness coupled with depression, Gillihan built raised garden beds and planted herbs and vegetables. “I knew I needed to get more involved in something that would bring me a sense of reward and engagement. All of that creative effort really helped to bring me back to life,” he recalls. “In a garden, you’re exercising, but it’s not a repetitive thing like running, so that can make it more fun and seem like less of a task.”

“Digging, walking, carrying and squatting circulate our blood and release dopamine and endorphins in our brains,” says Karen Hugg, author of Leaf Your Troubles Behind: How to Destress and Grow Happiness

Through Plants “We feel more energetic and happier. Similarly, puttering in the garden or designing an ornamental bed is really about playing, and playing is integral to mental health.”

By merely observing greenery we can find peace and clarity. “A tree’s subdividing branches or the whorled arrangement of leaves are patterns that can calm the nervous system. If you look at plants during even a five-minute break, either indoors or out, you’re practicing a kind of relaxation therapy,” Hugg affirms.

A little bit of earth under our fingernails is good for us. “When you get your hands dirty, there are beneficial microbes in the soil that improve your health and well-being,” says Charlie Hall, professor of horticultural studies and department chair at Texas A&M University, who has researched the physiological, psychological and social benefits of plants.

According to Hall, horticultural therapy reduces stress and anxiety, enhances memory and attention span and can improve quality of life for those with physical, mental or cognitive challenges. Citing the example of disabled adults helping to run a garden center and greenhouse at the Brookwood Community in Brookshire, Texas, he notes, “Working together in a garden builds a sense of belonging. Even

those who are not physically able to participate in those activities benefit. Just being in the garden can dramatically reduce the levels of the stress hormone cortisol.”

GARDENING TIPS TO IMPROVE HUMAN AND PLANETARY HEALTH

n Choose a modest space outdoors or purchase small containers.

n Keep it simple and start small with just a few plants.

n Read books to learn about plant needs by region.

n Talk to nurseries that sell native species.

n Think of the garden as a refuge, a place to smell flowers and watch plants thrive.

n View gardening as a fun exercise.

n Join a community garden to cultivate flowers and vegetables in a social setting.

n Grow houseplants, herbs and lettuces to bring in the outdoors.

n Volunteer at a nonprofit that propagates vegetables for food pantries.

Sheryl DeVore is a frequent contributor to national and regional publications and has authored six books on science, health and nature. Learn more at SherylDeVore. wordpress.com

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A NATURAL ESCAPE TO Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

by Lisa Kivirist

Nestled adjacent to the turquoise waters of its 290-acre namesake lake, the second-deepest in Wisconsin, is the resort community of Elkhart Lake. First settled by the Potawatomi, the area later became a popular resort town dating back to the early 1800s. Today, a cluster of world-class resorts, exceptional dining and plentiful recreation beckon both on the water and land.

City-weary residents have escaped to Elkhart Lake for more than a century for good reason: just a three-hour drive north of Chicago, visitors feel worlds away. Surrounded by the magnificent and diverse Kettle Moraine and touching a segment of the more than 600mile Ice Age National Scenic Trail (nps.gov/iatr), the small town is filled with white-painted Victorian homes and quaint cottages, plus several luxury resorts adding to the scenic beauty, along with deluxe amenities for a relaxing getaway.

HEALING WATERS AND RELAXATION

The name Elkhart Lake is taken from the Native American “Meshay-way-o-deh-ni-bis,” meaning, “Great Heart Lake,” after the shape of the lake, which resembles an elk’s heart, a gift from ancient geology as moving glaciers scooped out the area. More than 20,000 natural springs fill the lake, replenishing her waters with a fresh purity that makes it rank as one of the top 10 cleanest lakes in the United States.

When the sun hits the lake, the waters turn a vivid, Mediterranean blue. The large number of springs keep the water cool in

the summer and late to freeze in the winter, adding more reasons why this place holds such a strong recreation vibe. Conservation of this natural gem remains a priority of the community, including regulations that no building can take place within 70 feet of the shoreline to prevent erosion, which adds to showcasing Mother Nature’s beauty out on the water.

One way to tap into the water’s healing

Photos by John D. Ivanko Photography

Photos by John D. Ivanko Photography

The author kayaking on on Elkhart Lake

powers is at the Aspira Spa at the Osthoff Resort (Osthoff.com). Aspira embraces the healing wisdom of indigenous peoples from around the world for a holistic, organic approach to the spa experience through celebrating earth-based elements of stone, wood and water. Aspira’s signature Sacred Waters Energy Massage provides a balancing of mind, body and spirit by creatively using the healing waters of the lake. Using light pressure, muscle tension is released from the back, letting go of past tensions. Sacred native pouches holding the healing crystal-clear Elkhart Lake water are placed on the body’s energy centers to restore a grounding flow of energy to the chakra system.

BOND WITH MOTHER NATURE

First and foremost, Elkhart Lake needs to be experienced while on the water, and fortunately, there are multiple ways to do that. Osthoff Watersports at the Osthoff Resort offers a menu of options including a relaxing pontoon cruise skimming over the crystal-clear lake waters. Or try something completely different: “bike” the blue waters pedaling a unique hydro-bike. Kayaks, paddle boards and popular swan-shaped paddle boats are also available.

Don’t miss a hike along the Ice Age National Scenic Trail by heading to the nearby Kettle Moraine Forest Northern Unit (dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/kmn), providing trails that go into the heart of some of the best examples of landforms created by the glaciers of the last Ice Age. Pick up the trail at the northern tip of the Northern Unit, just 10 minutes south of Elkhart Lake.

“The natural diversity here is mind-boggling; a literal mosaic of plants; it’s where grasslands meet northern and eastern hardwoods, pockets left by the glaciers,” shares Jackie Sharfenberg, a naturalist on staff with the Kettle Moraine Forest. “Look below as the ice age also created the erratic geology of the area, with rocks as big as a house.”

CULINARY FEASTS

Hikers will undoubtedly work up an appetite after all that outdoor fun, and Elkhart Lake delivers with a range of gourmet treats. Before supper, pop by Vintage Elkhart Lake (VintageElkhartLake. com), owned and operated by award-winning certified sommelier Jaclyn Stuart. When deciding what to order, Stuart has a unique Wine-o-Matic wine lounge with 16 wines “on tap” to conveniently enjoy multiple samples.

The popular Paddock Club (PaddockClubElkhartLake.com) offers a changing seasonal menu curated with love by the team of sibling owners. The menu offers flavorful twists showcasing seasonality, including fresh pasta dishes such as a taleggio and ricotta agnolotti touched with prosciutto, butter and chives. Don’t miss the signature Paddock Club Hazelnut Crunch Cake for dessert, savoring layers of chai cool milk chocolate cream, chocolate chiffon cake, ganache and a hazelnut crunch crust.

Another delightful culinary surprise in Elkhart Lake is Siebkens Resort (Siebkens.com), the oldest continually running hotel on the

lake, with an old-school hospitality history dating back to 1880. In the 1950s, Elkhart Lake was an internationally known destination for sports car races, traversing a 6.5-mile loop around the lake that went right past Siebkens. For safety reasons, the racing circuit moved to nearby Road America, but visitors can still experience the vibe at their Stop-Inn Tavern, where drivers still “stop in” and gather post-race amidst cozy pub walls adorned with a rainbow of racing flags and team stickers. This is the place to splurge and have some vacation culinary fun with classics like their wild-caught walleye filet fish fry, served daily, along with onion rings and Wisconsin cheese curds, all with a crispy and gluten-free batter.

SPEND THE NIGHT

Elkhart Lake offers a range of accommodations to suit a vision of what lakeside relaxation is all about. The newly renovated Shore Club Wisconsin (ShoreClubWisconsin.com) updates its historic roots of welcoming guests for more than a century by showcasing a modern maritime decorating style that gives the relaxed setting the vibe of a little waterside village. Stop by their restaurant, Cottonwood Social, Elkhart Lake’s closest restaurant to the lake, to dine alfresco amid the cottonwood trees and views of azure waters.

For a more secluded stay off the resort path, check out the immaculate, spacious and luxurious VRBO property owned by Vicki Parsons (VRBO.com/140637). It provides the perfect respite, right down to the hammock, airy rooms and complimentary kayaks or canoes to ply the lake waters. Or better yet, make a cup of coffee in the sunlit kitchen and lounge in the cherry-red Adirondack chairs in the front yard and let the peacefulness of Elkhart Lake truly sink in.

Lisa Kivirist and John D. Ivanko are the authors of Farmstead Chef, Homemade for Sale, ECOpreneuring, and Soil Sisters. They run the completely solar-powered Inn Serendipity Farm, in Wisconsin.

Photos by John D. Ivanko Photography

Left: The Osthoff Resort and grounds nestled along the shores of Elkhart Lake.

Hikers along the Ice Age National Scenic Trail in the Kettle Moraine Forest Northern Unit.

May is the Ideal Month for Novice Birdwatchers

by Sheryl DeVore

The month of May is a birder’s delight. “It’s the equivalent of Christmas for birders,” says Rena Cohen, president of the Lake-Cook Audubon Society (LakeCookAudubon.org). “That’s when the birds are dressed to the nines in full breeding plumage,” Cohen says. “A male scarlet tanager, for example, is an eye-popping crimson with black wings in the spring, but a drab yellow in the fall. Birds also sing in the spring to attract mates, so you can bird with your ears, as well as your eyes.”

In May, some 300 or more different species can be seen in the Chicago region. The sheer number of birds at this time may sound daunting, but those picking up their binoculars for the first or maybe the second or third time in the merry month of May can bring their skills up to a higher level and enjoy the show even as beginners.

“The bird bonanza in May can be overwhelming for a new birder, but it’s also a great opportunity to begin your birding journey because (as my husband would say) there are more birds per inch than at other times of the year,” says Cohen, a Highland Park resident who leads bird walks in the region. “That means you usually don’t have to search too hard to encounter some of these special spring visitors. Get started by taking a walk in the woods, seeing what you can see and focusing on learning two or three birds per outing. Zero in on a few birds that you see really well, particularly any with distinctive plumages, and note their field marks, as well as their shape and size.

“In the warbler family, for example, one of the most common migrants is a yellow-rumped warbler, with an almost comical number of identifying features, including a yellow rump patch, earning the nickname ‘butter butt’, yellow patches on the flanks, and a black cheek, and black streaks on a white breast. You’ll find him frantically foraging for insects on tree leaves, frequently at eye level” she says.

Baltimore Orioles, with black heads and bright orange breasts, rose-breasted grosbeaks, black and white with red hearts on their

breasts, and indigo buntings, which are a brilliant blue with black wings, are relatively common and easy to identify, according to Cohen. “Learn a few at a time, initially males, because they’re easier to identify, then add every time you’re out,” she suggests.

Edward Warden, president of the Chicago Ornithological Society, says one of the best ways to get started birding is to join a bird walk, many of which are free. “Even with all of the field guides out there and the plethora of (online) resources, the tried and true most effective way to get started is by joining a bird walk,” Warden says. “That’s where you can get that social and personal experience with people who know what they are looking at and hearing.”

Warden says that’s how he become a birder. “I was a city kid. Sparrows and pigeons were the norm.” He didn’t realize when he was a youngster that the Chicago region “is a tremendous place to see a whole wide array of birds, and many are easy to encounter and notice.”

When his parents realized he was interested in birds, they took him to free weekly birding walks at North Pond, in Lincoln Park. “I showed up with a crappy pair of binoculars and my birding guide from an aunt of mine,” he recalls. On one of his first walks, while sitting on a bench at a pond, a large white bird with feathery plumes came out of the trees. It was a great egret, a species he had never seen before.

Evanston resident Judy Pollock, president of Chicago Audubon Society ( ChicagoAudubon.org ) began birding in

The Great Egret is a large wading bird that is easy for beginning birders to see.

Photo by Steven D. Bailey

Beginning bird watchers can entice avian species like this Baltimore Oriole into their yards in spring.

Photo by Sheryl DeVore

spring. “In May, every day was like a week because I was just discovering so many new birds all the time,” Pollock recalls. “It’s not a bad time to get started. It’s a time when everything is just so magical, and you’re really getting started with a bang.”

Pollock agrees with Warden that joining bird walks in May is a great way to get started. “Seasoned birders are very welcoming to new birders, especially on field trips,” she says. “Beginning birders shouldn’t hesitate for a second about joining a field trip. A lot of organizations will even loan people binoculars.” Pollock says on walks with beginners, Chicago Audubon Society field trip leaders will show them how to use binoculars. Warden adds beginners that attend local bird walks will notice the many different types of binoculars people use, and veteran birders happily let them try them out.

“There are also a lot of great online resources about buying binoculars, such as the best one for cost,” he says. “Not all binoculars are equal. That doesn’t mean they have to be expensive. Choose binoculars designed for birding specifically,” he advises. “Once you have the binoculars you prefer, that just levels up the game for you. It’s a unique experience, being able to see a bird right in front of you.”

Pollock says beginning birders will find that the activity will open a new world to them. “The nice thing is, birds are never very far from you,” she states. “They’re in your local park. They’re in your back yard. They’re out at the lake front and along rivers and lakes.”

Using field guides while out birding as well as when at home can enhance skills. “Just remember, field guides are not onesize-fits-all,” Warden says. “There are so many out there, some older, some newer, some use art work, some use photos. They’re organized differently. No one is gospel versus another.”

Pollock notes that apps also can help beginning birders. “I would recommend people get Merlin,” she suggests. “It’s a good tool for identifying birds not only by sight, but also sound. You hold your phone up and every time Merlin hears a bird, it will appear on your screen. That’s great in spring when the birds are singing.”

Warden adds beginners should realize that each person is better at certain aspects of birding. Some are more adept at bird songs. Others can pick out plumage details better, and some enjoy photographing birds, while others feed birds in their yards.

FREE BIRD WALKS FOR BEGINNERS

Register for these free bird walks in May, then join the group and prepare to learn. The number of participants may be limited.

BEGINNERS SPRING MIGRATION BIRD OUTING

7-8 a.m., May 15, Gillson Park, Wilmette. Led by Chicago Audubon Society. Visit ChicagoAudubon.org/bird-walks-list to register online.

BEGINNER WARBLER WALK

7 a.m., May 4, Lyons Woods, 10300 Blanchard Rd., Waukegan. Sponsored by Lake Cook Audubon Society. Visit LakeCookAudubon.org. Contact leader Adam Sell at 847-910-2813.

MONTROSE POINT BIRD SANCTUARY BIRDING FIELD TRIP

7 a.m., May 7. 4400 N, Simonds Dr., Chicago. Sponsored by Lake Cook Audubon Society. LakeCookAudubon.org. Contact leader Rena Cohen at 847-971-1107.

Birders look over the Chicago River during a field trip.

Warden says feeding is a good way to start birding. “There are lots of birds around in spring. If you put out the food, they will come,” he says. For example, hummingbirds visit feeders in spring and may remain all summer long. “Make sure you use larger seeds like sunflowers and peanuts instead of using the mixes,” Warden cautions. Sunflower oilers, for example, attract birds like blue jays and cardinals all year long and species like rose-breasted grosbeak in spring.

Cohen says the main thing for beginning birders is to “enjoy the treasure hunt. You never know what you’re going to find, and if you’re a beginner, you’re sure to come across birds that you’ve never seen before. You’ll also be in habitats that soothe the soul. Fair warning: the experience may change the month of May for you forever.”

Sheryl DeVore has written six books on science, health and nature, as well as nature, health and environment stories for national and regional publications. Read more atSherylDeVore.Wordpress.com

Photo courtesy Chicago Ornithological Society

The Chicago Ornithological Society leads canoe birding trips on the Chicago River.

Photo courtesy Chicago Ornithological Society

Bringing the Bounce Back INTEGRATIVE TREATMENTS FOR PETS WITH MOBILITY ISSUES

by Ruth Roberts, DVM

All pet owners want to see their animals live long, healthy lives filled with activity, but sometimes our furry friends find it difficult to move comfortably due to aging, injuries and other ailments. While vets often suggest surgery for certain debilitating conditions, less invasive treatments might be just as effective with considerably less risk, particularly for animals that cannot tolerate anesthesia.

For example, a 2013 University of Minnesota study focused on large-breed, overweight dogs with torn knee ligaments. Half of the dogs were treated with medical management consisting of weight loss, pain medication and physical therapy, and the other half received surgery to repair the torn ligament, followed by the same medical management. After a year, 75 percent of the dogs treated with surgery and medical management were considered treatment successes, based on leg function, quality of life and gait analysis. Surprisingly, 63.6 percent of the dogs that did not have surgery and received only medical management were also deemed successful cases.

Before considering surgery or other inva-

sive treatments, integrative pet mobility and rehabilitation (IPMR) might be a good way to help a pet regain its vitality without going under the knife. It is a holistic approach to helping pets recover from injuries, manage pain and improve mobility that combines various techniques to provide a comprehensive and personalized plan for each pet.

“It is all about educating pet parents and preserving the best quality of life for my patients,” says Dr. Joyce Gerardi, of Synergy Integrative Veterinary Clinic. “Over time, my special interests have grown to include platelet-rich plasma, bone marrow aspirate, adipose-derived and allogeneic amniotic stem cell therapies, acupuncture, food therapy, cold laser, herbal medicine, tuina massage, ozone and physical rehabilitation services.”

Here is a look at a few such modalities.

LASER THERAPY uses light energy to stimulate tissue repair and reduce pain. The procedure involves the application of laser light to the damaged area using a handheld device. The severity of the ailment

and the location being treated determines the length and frequency of treatments. The patient will feel a gentle, warm sensation as the laser technician or veterinarian moves the device over the affected area. Pets usually relax and take pleasure in the calming warmth of laser therapy, which is painless.

PHYSICAL THERAPY is an essential component of IPMR. It involves exercises and stretches that help pets regain strength and flexibility in their muscles and joints. A trained physical therapist can customize a plan that targets specific areas of concern such as the hips, knees or spine. This can help reduce pain and improve mobility, allowing pets to move around more easily and enjoy their favorite activities.

ACUPUNCTURE involves inserting tiny needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the nervous system and promote healing. Acupuncture can help relieve pain, reduce inflammation and improve circulation, all contributing to improved pet mobility.

CHIROPRACTIC CARE involves manipulating the spine to correct misalignments and improve overall function. This can help pets with hip dysplasia, arthritis or spinal injuries.

MASSAGE involves gentle pressure and strokes to relax muscles, reduce pain and improve circulation. Massage can also help pets with anxiety or stress, which can contribute to muscle tension and pain.

NUTRITION: A well-balanced, nutrient-dense diet can help with healing, inflammation reduction and overall health. A qualified veterinarian can recommend a diet plan tailored to each pet’s needs.

EASING A PET’S PAIN WHILE IN TREATMENT

Reducing a pet’s discomfort with full-spectrum cannabinoids or, if needed, prescription pain medications offers better comfort and recovery time. Another option is to reduce a pet’s stress by balancing its adrenal stress hormones.

Ruth Roberts is a holistic veterinarian and certified pet health coach with more than 30 years’ experience.

CHICAGO’S CALENDAR OF EVENTS

CALENDAR DEADLINE: All listings must be received by the 10th of the month prior to publication. Calendar events must be submitted online at NAChicago.com/Calendar.

Call First:

Events or services may be cancelled, postponed or are now offered online. Call and check websites for up-to-date information.

Asian American Month

Asian Pacific Islander American Heritage Month

Jewish American Heritage Month

Mental Health Awareness Month

National Bike Month

MONDAY, MAY 1

May Day

Int’l Workers Day

Beltane (Wiccan)

Darien Garden Club May Meeting: Plant Exchange – 6:30-8:30pm. Please bring only 1 plant to exchange. The plant should be potted and labeled with the name and type of plant: houseplant, annual, perennial, sun or shade-loving plant, etc. Free. St John Lutheran Church, 7214 S Cass Ave, Darien. DarienGardenClub.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 2

Digestive Solutions for Gut Health – 5:456:45pm. Many people experience discomfort after meals: gas, bloating, and food intolerances, but are left baffled as to what the cause could be. Could it be environmental? What we ate? Stress? Digestive imbalance? We’ll explore digestive enzymes, probiotics and more. Fruitful Yield, 1512 N Naper Blvd, Naperville. 630-536-8265. FruitfulYield.com

Go Green Highland Park Monthly Meeting –7-8pm. Join our monthly meeting and share your ideas. Find out how you can get involved in event planning or help with other group activities. Zoom. Register: GoGreenHP.org

WEDNESDAY, MAY 3

World Press Freedom Day

Nat’l Bike to School Day

Nat’l Garden Meditation Day

Green Drinks McHenry County – 5pm, social; 6-8pm, program. 1st Wed. Topic: Introduction to the Wonderful World of Moths. In-person and Zoom. Duke’s Alehouse & Kitchen, 110 N Main St, Crystal Lake. Tinyurl.com/2mxv9rsx

THURSDAY, MAY 4

Bird Day

ONLINE: Fruitful Yield Celebrates Cinco De Mayo – 12-12:15pm. Jessica will show how we can make a quick but delicious chalupa appetizer to include at your Cinco de Mayo fiesta. Facebook: @TheFruitfulYield.

Energy Medicine: Calming Stress & Anxiety – 6:30-8pm. Enjoy the first is a 3-part series of introductory classes into the wonderful world of energy medicine. Mary Walters RN, EEM-CP, will share energy healing techniques on how to calm stress and anxiety. Space limited. Part 2, May 18; Part 3, June 1. Park District of La Grange, 536 East Ave, La Grange. Register: Tinyurl.com/2p8abty6

FRIDAY, MAY 5

Cinco de Mayo

Full Moon – Flower Moon, Corn Planting Moon Advanced Applications Seated Massage Therapy – 9am-4pm. Will cover chair massage and upright/seated massage in clinical settings, for various special populations and for various conditions. Learn creative ways to provide massage therapy for those who may need to be worked with outside of what you are used to with prone and supine positions. 6 CEs. $139. Illinois Valley Community College, Ottawa Center, 321 Main St, Ottawa. 815-224-0427. ivcc.edu/enroll

WILL-derness Women’s Weekend – May 5-7. 4:30pm, Fri-1pm, Sun. Join us for a women’s camping weekend to renew and restore your body, mind and spirit. Take the time to unplug and enjoy the outdoors with camping, archery, hiking, crafts, evening campfires, camp cooking, outdoor skills, mindfulness activities and more. $20/person. Hickory Creek Preserve, Cleveland Rd Access, Frankfort Township. Register by May 2: 815-727-8700. ReconnectWithNature.org

Night Tarot – 6-10pm. With Andre. Wine served. $35/30 mins. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. For appt: 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

SATURDAY, MAY 6

Rivers of Color: Birds and Blooms –9-10:30am. Walk with a naturalist to spot brightly colored warblers in the trees above and vibrant wildflowers on the forest floor. Free. McKinley Woods, Frederick’s Grove, 27110 S McKinley Woods Rd, Channahon. Register by May 5: 815-722-9470. ReconnectWithNature.org

ONLINE: Life Mission Exploration – 9:1510:30am. Uncover clues and insights so you can move forward with more purpose and meaning. Why am I here? What am I here to do? Who am I here to become? Each session is custom created for, and with, those in attendance. $15-$25 suggested donation. More info & registration, Sarah Karnes: 262-745-8362 or Meetup.com/spiritual-nourishment-chicagoland

Morton Arboretum Photographic Society

Annual Exhibit – May 6-7. 10am-4pm. Enjoy nature-themed photographs showcasing trees, plants, animals, rocks, skies and more, including images captured at the Arboretum and elsewhere. Included free with timed-entry Arboretum admission. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle. 630-968-0074. Details: MortonArb.org

Mission SLIMpossible – 12-1pm. Weight loss can be a revolving door for many of us. From the foods we eat to detoxing our bodies, we can all make some lifestyle changes. Jessica will offer a discussion on individualizing your weight loss journey with detoxing and nutrition tips. Fruitful Yield, 7230 W North Ave, Elmwood Park. Register: FruitfulYield.com

Rivers of Color: Wildflower Explosion –1-2pm. This leisurely hike will include many stops along the way as we learn about and photograph the many species found in the preserve. Free. Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 W Walnut Ln, Channahon. Register by May 5: 815-722-9470. ReconnectWithNature.org

Wildflower Walk at O’Hara Woods – 1-2pm. O’Hara Woods is known for its blanket of bluebells, but we’ll also search for mayapple, toothwort, Jack-in-the-pulpit and more. Free. O’Hara Woods Preserve, 1034 W 135th St, Romeoville. Register by May 4: 815-886-1467. ReconnectWithNature.org

Spring Flowering Trees Walking Tour –1-3pm. Enjoy emerging spring blooms and colors and hear about the seasonal changes of trees on a guided walk at The Morton Arboretum led by two of its scientific researchers. $23. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle. 630-968-0074. Register: MortonArb.org

What Does Your Face Say About You? –4-7pm. Using the ancient Chinese Five-Element analysis in the Chinese medicine system, David Birr will evaluate the strength and influence of the five elements: fire, water, earth, wood and metal, on your basic character, unconscious defenses and destiny. Your facial features have specific meanings which show the presence of the five elements. $40/30-min session. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com

SUNDAY, MAY 7

International Compost Awareness Week (ICAW) – May 7-13. Theme: For Healthier Soil … Healthier Food, Compost. Combines in-person and hands-on experiences with virtual discussions and presentations to reach diverse and widespread audiences at all stages of life and composting experience. Details & to register: IllinoisComposts.org

Tails on the Trails – 7am-sunset; 9am4pm, vendor expo. Enjoy a “paw”fect day out with your pup, meandering down the Arboretum’s 16 miles of hiking trails. Shop from local businesses and organizations in the pet expo. Regular admission applies, $5/dog. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle. 630-968-0074. Registration required: MortonArb.org

SAVE THE DATE

Holistic Health Fair – 10am-5pm. Explore holistic health and metaphysical topics, local vendors, speakers and energy workers with a wide range of products and services: crystals and gems, sound healing, natural skincare, candles, herbs, psychics and mediums, jewelry, aromatherapy, reiki, chiropractic, intuitive and tarot card readers, animal communication and more. $5/ online advance, $7/day of, free/age 16 & under. DoubleTree by Hilton, 11800 108th St, Pleasant Prairie. 262-515-1472. HolisticHealthFair.org

Reiki – 11am-2pm. With Mary. $35/30 mins. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

Spring Birding Experience – 1:30-3:30pm. Educator/naturalist John Cebula from DuPage Birding Club will present a lecture on how to enjoy birding during the annual spring migration. Learn how to spy local birds in nature with hands-on fun using binoculars to spot birds in the library’s garden. Free. Indian Prarie Public Library, 401 Plainfield Rd, Darien. Registration required: DarienGardenClub.com

MONDAY, MAY 8

Trauma-Informed Therapeutic Touch –9am-4pm. Explore a range of trauma-conscious bodywork techniques that can be implemented in a range of body-centered care practices. Also investigate strategies we can implement to subtly shift any technique in any modality to accommodate a more trauma-informed perspective. 6 CEs. $150. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.org

Women’s Health Check Screening –9am-5pm. By appt. Thermography by Northwest Medical Screening. Landmark Conway Farms, 100 S Saunders Rd, Ste 150, Lake Forest. 224-600-3216. NWMedicalScreening.com

Annadhan (Vegetarian Food) Offering –6-8pm. Also chanting, healing, Living Water with Farah. Free. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

TUESDAY, MAY 9

Malcolm Smith, Spiritual Healer – 9am6pm. Smith considers himself an ordinary person with an extraordinary gift, the ability to be a channel for healing energy from God. In addition to in-person sessions, there are a limited number of remote sessions available if you are unable to get to the Edgar Cayce Holistic Center. $100. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com

Green Drinks Libertyville – 6pm. 2nd Tues. Cafe Pomigliano, 13860 Rockland Rd, Green Oaks. More info: Facebook.com/ greendrinkslibertyville

WEDNESDAY, MAY 10

Green Dreamer Day

Birds and Bourbon – 7-8:30pm. Sip a bird-inspired bourbon cocktail while learning about spring bird migration in this 21-and-older program. $46. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle. 630-968-0074. Register: MortonArb.org

THURSDAY, MAY 11

ONLINE: New Invaders Watch Training Program – 7-8:30pm. Learn about invasive plants and forest pests that are new to Illinois and how to help monitor and report them. Free, registration required. Register: MortonArb.org

FRIDAY, MAY 12

See NAChicago.com for latest events.

SATURDAY, MAY 13

World Migratory Bird Day

World Fair Trade Day

Mother’s Day Weekend at Monee Reservoir – May 13 & 14. 6am-7pm. Moms can enjoy their special weekend taking a pedalboat ride, kayaking or hiking the trail. Check in at the concession building to be treated to a small gift. Free. Monee Reservoir, 27341 S Ridgeland Ave, Monee. ReconnectWithNature.org

World Migratory Day Bird Hike – 8-10am. Find out what birds you can see at Monee Reservoir on this guided exploration of the preserve. Learn which ones stay and nest and which ones just use the site as a rest stop on their way north. Free. Monee Reservoir, 27341 S Ridgeland Ave, Monee. Register by May 12: 708-534-8499. ReconnectWithNature.org

Photography Bird Hike – 8:30-9:45am. Get tips from an expert photographer on how to capture your favorite birds. Bring your camera and take advantage of the busiest time of year. Free. Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 W Walnut Ln, Channahon. ReconnectWithNature.org

Migration Celebration – 10am-2pm. Songbirds are bringing Four Rivers to life with their migration music. These tiny travelers use the forest preserves as a stopover spot to rest and refuel on their extraordinary journey from South America to their breeding grounds in Canada. Free. Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 W Walnut Ln, Channahon. ReconnectWithNature.org

Barefoot Shiatsu – May 13-14. 10am-5pm. Mat work, integrating the use of feet, knees and elbows for the purpose of applying sustained pressure. Enjoy the freedom of using the whole body, learn strategies to take the burden off their thumbs and wrists, and learn deep and relaxing techniques to benefit a wide range of clients. In-person or via Zoom. 12 CEs. $300. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.org

Lincoln Roscoe Spring Art & Craft Fair –May 13-14. 10am-7pm, Sat; 10am-5pm, Sun. Features art for the home including fabulous paintings, sculptures, and fiber pieces, as well as décor, jewelry and more; all hand-made by artists and artisans. Live music all weekend long, painting classes, selfie stations, festival food, interactive art activities for kids and much more. Free admission. Lincoln Ave from Roscoe to School, Chicago. Details: AmdurProductions.com

Curious About Camping Part 1: Intro to Camping – 1-3pm. Join naturalists in this 3-part series to learn the basics of camping. Gain experience setting up tents. Learn different methods for starting a campfire and more. Free. Goodenow Grove Campground, Dutton Rd, north of Goodenow Rd, Crete Township. Register by May 11: 708-946-2216. ReconnectWithNature.org

The air is like a butterfly with frail blue wings. The happy earth looks at the sky and sings.

~Joyce Kilmer

ONLINE: Chicago IANDS 25th Anniversary – 2pm. Support/study/resource forum for near-death, out-of-body and spiritual experiences, losses. Guest Speaker: Suzane Northrop, NDEr, internationally acclaimed medium, grief and bereavement expert, TV and radio host, author of 3 books. Become a free subscriber to Chicago IANDS by filling in the form online. $20 tax-deductible donation requested (see website). For more info: 847-251-5758 or ChicagoIANDS.org

How To Make Yourself Happy: Silent Meditation Retreat – 2-5pm. Learn effective meditations to develop and increase your mental peace and happiness. Although we all want to be happy, sometimes it feels like a struggle. Meditation offers a practical and powerful method to develop and increase our mental peace; the deeper our peace becomes, the happier we will be. $30. Kadampa Meditation Center Chicago, Wicker Park, 2010 W Pierce Ave, Chicago. 708-763-0132. MeditateInChicago.org

Kirtan (Krishna Consciousness) – 6:308pm. Call and response, music, dancing. Vegetarian food offered. Free. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

SUNDAY, MAY 14

Mother’s Day

Hike with Mother Nature – 9:30-11am. Hike with Mom this Mother’s Day and enjoy the sweeping bluff views, spring flowers and budding trees. A naturalist will point out plants and animals of interest, highlighting the moms of nature. Free. Keepataw Preserve, Hejka Ln, Lemont Register by May 12: ReconnectWithNature.org

Wildflower Walk with a Naturalist –9:3011:30am. Hike and explore with a naturalist the trails of beautiful Messenger Woods Nature Preserve, which is famous for its flower diversity and abundance in the springtime. Free. Messenger Woods Nature Preserve, 13800 W Bruce Rd, Homer Glen. Register by May 13: 708-946-2216 or ReconnectWithNature.org

MONDAY, MAY 15

Women’s Health Check Screening – 9am5pm. By appt. Thermography by Northwest Medical Screening. Executive Towers West, 1431 Opus Pl, Ste 110, Downers Grove. 224-600-3216. NWMedicalScreening.com

Sports Massage – 9am-6pm. Course presents a general framework for basic sports massage protocols, injury assessment, neurological considerations and special tests. Additional considerations will also be discussed, including precautions, contraindications, intake documentation and hydro/ cryo therapy integration. 8 CEs. $200. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.org.

TUESDAY, MAY 16

Green Drinks Park Ridge – 7pm. 3rd Tues. An environmental movement meet up. A great way of catching up with people you know and for making new contacts. For location & more info: cgrau8@gmail.com GoGreenParkRidge.org

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17

Endangered Species Day

Lin Boufelli Angel Communication & Astrology – 12:30-4:30pm. $35/30-mins, $60/60-mins. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. Appt required: 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

THURSDAY, MAY 18

ONLINE: Detox the House – 12-12:15pm. Swap out harsh cleaners for natural alternatives, or trade-in your plastic storage containers with more sustainable options. Facebook: @TheFruitfulYield.

Energy Medicine: Balancing Hormones – 5:20-8pm. Enjoy the second of a 3-part series of introductory classes into the wonderful world of energy medicine. Mary Walters RN, EEM-CP will share energy healing techniques on how to on how to balance your hormones. Space limited. Part 3, June 1. Park District of La Grange, 536 East Ave, La Grange. Register: Tinyurl.com/2p8abty6

FRIDAY, MAY 19

New Moon – Ohyaihgo-nah – Moon of Great Ripening Berries World Plant a Vegetable Garden Day New Moon Night Hike – 8:30-9:45am. Join other families as we hike through the preserve, test our senses and enjoy all that the dark woods have to offer. Free. Hammel Woods, Rte 59 Access, Shorewood. Register by May 18: 815-722-9470. ReconnectWithNature.org

Women’s Health Check Screening – 9am5pm. By appt. Thermography by Northwest Medical Screening. Old Orchard, 5250 Old Orchard Rd, Ste 300, Skokie. 224-600-3216. NWMedicalScreening.com

Death & Dying: A Buddhist Perspective –7-8:15pm. Spend the evening exploring the Buddhist perspective on death, and what happens afterwards, in this thought-provoking talk and guided meditation. Following the talk, everyone is invited to a social dinner at a local restaurant in Oak Park (details announced at the event). $15. Kadampa Meditation Center Chicago, Oak Park, 13 Harrison St, Oak Park. 708-763-0132. MeditateInChicago.org

SATURDAY, MAY 20

Plant Health Care Walking Tour – 9am12pm. Learn to recognize and interpret the signs and symptoms of pest, disease and environmental impacts on plant health. $46. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle. 630-968-0074. Register: MortonArb.org

Andrew Harvey Workshop: Love Is Everything – 9am-3pm. Join Andrew Harvey, world renowned poet, scholar and bestselling author in a journey into the mystical aspects of love from his newest release, Love Is Everything. Gain mystical wisdom to access love, the most powerful force for all of humanity. 5 CEUs available. $140, $125/10 days advance includes lunch. Ravinia Green Country Club, 1200 Saunders Rd, Riverwoods. 847-945-6200. InfinityFoundation.org

Traditional Japanese Shoden Reiki Level 1 – May 20-21. 9am-4pm. Whether you are new to reiki, or already certified in other reiki styles, this lineage of Shoden Japanese Reiki helps you on a path to self-discovery. It is through self-discovery and self-healing that healing of others happens. $375; $300 early bird. Calandra Center for Health and Wellness, 830 E Higgins Rd, Unit 116, Schaumburg. 312-796-3965. CalandraAcupuncture.com

Kinesiology Taping Fundamentals – 9am5pm. Spend a day learning about the “special tape” that is seen all over many athletes and others. Discussion of the benefits, contraindications and precautions, as well as research and more. Work with different tensions of tape and how to target specific areas, creating desired effects on tissue. 7 CEs. $205, materials included. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.org

ONLINE: Experience Your Soul Type

Infinity Foundation 26th Anniversary Gala – 5:30-10pm. Practitioners’ fair with mini-demonstrations and silent auction from 5:30-7:30pm. precedes an elegant dinner at 8pm. 2023 Spirit Award recipient Andrew Harvey is the keynote speaker. Ravinia Green Country Club, 1200 Saunders Rd, Riverwoods. 847-831-8828. InfinityFoundation.org

Through a Soul Visioning Journey – 12:303:30pm. “Ray analysis” is a powerful method of self-understanding and integrating our personality with our Soul. Knowing your specific Soul and personality rays allows you to gracefully blend their energies as a loving expression of spiritual wholeness which blesses the world. $45. Details: Theosophical.org/program/webinars/5539-experience-your-soul-type-through-a-soul-visioning-journey

Little Witches Moon Gardening Club –1-3:30pm. Club members learn how to start seeds and a planting log. We’ll create seed trays together and plan gardens together within different monthly sessions. $50. Cultivating Guts, 1011 W Wildwood Dr, Prospect Heights. 773-234-6636. CultivatingGuts.com

Transitions with Grace and Mindfulness –2-3pm. Change and transition are constants in our life. Join us for a guided meditation and creative exploration that help you feel more energy and clarity as you move forward. Optional donation via paypal. Meetup. com/spiritual-nourishment-chicagoland

Energetic Infusion – 2-4pm. With Eve. Learn to connect with your spirit team and receive infusions of energy to help release, clear and recharge your energy field. Create a simple daily routine of intentional energy to help raise your frequency, align your chakras and seal your energy field. Learn how to make energetic intentions to clear the path for your future goals. $40. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

Amazing Gong Journey – 6-7:30pm. With Sound Healer Andre Peraza. The gong is a powerful instrument that works on many levels to heal the listener. It can help release deep emotional energy and feelings to better ground yourself. $40. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com

SUNDAY, MAY 21

Crystals for Beginners – 2-4pm. An indepth look at how crystals and their energy can facilitate healing and can enhance your body, mind and spirit. $40. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

Experience Shamanic Healing – 2-5pm. Melissa Gama, Shamanic Healer and Medium, will provide private sessions to support you on your journey. In a session with Melissa, clearing blocks, entities, attachments in your energy field will take place. Melissa can help you break out of patterns and habits that do not serve you and prepare you energtically for new experiences. $40/30mins. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com.

Drumming Circle – 3-5pm. Free. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

MONDAY, MAY 22

World Biodiversity Day

Women’s Health Check Screening – 9am5pm. By appt. Thermography by Northwest Medical Screening. Cornerstone at Cantera, 4320 Winfield Rd, Ste 200, Warrenville. 224-600-3216. NWMedicalScreening.com

Introduction to Myofascial Release –9am-6pm. Work smarter, not harder, during your massage therapy session by learning to incorporate Myofascial Release techniques. This approach works without lubrication, using intention and patience to provide a gentle, slow, sustained pressure into the fascial restriction barriers. 8 CEs. $200. Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 818 Lake St, Evanston. 847-864-1130. ZenShiatsuChicago.org

TUESDAY, MAY 23

Digestive Solutions for Gut Health – 5:456:45pm. Many people experience discomfort after meals: gas, bloating, and food intolerances, but are left baffled as to what the cause could be. Could it be environmental? What we ate? Stress? Digestive imbalance? We’ll explore digestive enzymes, probiotics and more. Fruitful Yield, 2141 W 75th St, Darien. 630-536-8265. FruitfulYield.com

WEDNESDAY, MAY 24

See NAChicago.com for latest events.

THURSDAY, MAY 25

Basic Tree ID – 1-3:30pm. Also May 31, 6-8:30pm. Learn to identify the common trees found in local forest preserves or neighborhoods. $36. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle. 630-968-0074. Register: MortonArb.org

FRIDAY, MAY 26

12th Annual Midwest Women’s Herbal Conference Weekend: Germinating Regenerative Wisdom – May 26-28. Keynote speakers are Robin Rose Bennett, Linda Black Elk, Rev. Judith Laxer, with opening and closing ceremonies led by Venice Williams. The conference offers more than 60 workshops and plant walks focused on transforming our relationship to herbs, plants, trees, mushrooms and the Earth. Camp Helen Brachman, Almond, WI. MidwestWomensHerbal.com

Women’s Health Check Screening – 9am5pm. By appt. Thermography by Northwest Medical Screening. One Magnificent Mile, 980 N Michigan Ave, Ste 1400, Chicago. 224-600-3216. NWMedicalScreening.com

SATURDAY, MAY 27

Buddha Day (Buddhism)

Migratory Bird Hike – 8-10am. Join a naturalist and other birdwatching enthusiasts on a hike through several different habitats within the preserve. Free. Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 W Walnut Ln, Channahon. Register by May 26: 815-722-9470. ReconnectWithNature.org

Gemz and Boardz May Pop-Up Shop –1:10-6:10pm. Join us and amazing vendors at our shop. Gemz and Boardz, 3101 W Montrose Ave, Chicago. 872-218-0307. GemzAndBoardz.com

Astral Energy Healing – 4-7pm. With Richard Popp and Cheryl. While you are lying on a massage table, you will enter into a semi-sleep trance and scan your body, aura and chakras. Stuck and charged energies will be identified and cleared. There will be time for questions and comments. $50/30mins. The Edgar Cayce Holistic Center, 259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines. 847-299-6535. HolisticCenterChicago.com

Gong Sound Bath – 6:30-8pm. Come and join Andre for an exceptional experience. $40. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

Whooooo’s for Dinner? – 7-8:30pm. Join a naturalist for this fun opportunity to learn about owls as we dissect owl pellets. Dig in to investigate what owls have for dinner. Then hike for a chance to experience our hooting friends. Free. Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 419 Trout Farm Rd, Bolingbrook. Register by May 26: 815-722-4121. ReconnectWithNature.org

SUNDAY, MAY 28

Tarot – 12-4:30pm. With Andre. $35/30 mins. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. For appt: 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

MONDAY, MAY 29

Memorial Day

Iris Society Show – 1-5pm. Experience nearly 100 varieties of blooming irises and marvel at their unique colors at this event presented by the Northern Illinois Iris Society in the Arboretum’s Sycamore Room. Included with timed-entry Arboretum admission. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle. 630-968-0074. Details: MortonArb.org

TUESDAY, MAY 30

See NAChicago.com for latest events.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 31

Basic Tree ID – 6-8:30pm. Learn to identify the common trees found in local forest preserves or neighborhoods. $36. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle. 630968-0074. Register: MortonArb.org

THURSDAY, JUNE 1

Energy Medicine: Releasing Pain –6:30-8pm. Enjoy the last of a 3-part series of introductory classes into the wonderful world of energy medicine. Mary Walters RN, EEM-CP will share energy healing techniques on how to release pain. Space limited. Park District of La Grange, 536 East Ave, La Grange. Register: Tinyurl.com/2p8abty6

SATURDAY, JUNE 3

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Inner Engineering Completion – June

3-4. Led by Sadhguru of the Isha Foundation. Inner Engineering provides tools to defuse tension, reduce stress, and shore up mental and emotional resilience. Learn a simple, 21-min daily practice, Shambhavi Mahamudra Kriya. Georgia World Congress Center, 285 Andrew Young International Blvd NW, Atlanta. More info: InnerEngineering.Sadhguru. org/with-sadhguru

SAVE THE DATE

Body Mind Spirit Expo Weekend – June 3-4. 10am-7pm, Sat; 10am-6pm, Sun. Live performances featuring entertaining music, dance and spoken word. Explore an incredible selection of the nation’s finest psychics and mediums, the best in alternative health, wellness tools, products and resources. $14 advance online. Tinley Park Convention Center, 18451 Convention Center Dr, Tinley Park. bmse.net

SATURDAY, JUNE 10

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

National Meniere’s Disease Symposium: A Story of Survival – 2-6pm symposium; 7-9pm appetizers, desserts and entertainment. Dr. Michael T. Burcon, DC, this year’s keynote speaker, is hailed by The Merck Manuals as the world’s leading expert on Meniere’s disease. All are welcome and can participate in one or more events. $50/ established patients and students, $25/ caregivers, free/press. $20 gourmet lunch. For more info or tickets, call Jane between 12-3pm Mon-Fri: 616-575-9990. BurconChiropractic.com

2 M isconceptions about Bladder Pain and Urinary Tract Infections ( UTI s )

If you suffer from bladder pain or reoccurring UTIs, you’re probably doing all the things to avoid the next painful onset: drinking enough water, and consuming cranberry juice or cranberry extract. Bladder discomfort can happen when bacteria enters the urinary system by way of the urethra. Most commonly, this bacteria comes from the bowel. But could something else be causing the issue?

Misconception 1 : Bladder irritation is always a UTI . People experiencing bladder urgency or pain may think that they have a UTI. However, bladder irritation often occurs when the body is taking in food that cannot be digested properly.

Misconception 2 : Taking antibiotics will rid the pain or discomfort. Looking at the issue scientifically, this is what we know: Cultivating a healthy gut balance through proper nutrition can get to the source of what is causing the irritation, and may be a helpful therapy for reoccurring or chronic issues.

Get Expert Help.

If you experience bladder irritation, you can identify what’s really going on and establish an effective therapy plan. I take a science-based approach to understanding your unique digestive needs. Developing a healthy gut balance by identifying food irritants and optimizing digestion can have a big impact on reducing chronic symptoms and boosting overall health and vitality.

The Tummy Whisperer is here for you. Call today for a free 15-minute consultation.

Let’s get you feeling better.

Photo by Tim Douglas from Pexels

Check

Online: Check the NA Online Calendar and Directory for many updates and new online events and workshops.

ONGOING EVENTS

To ensure we keep our community calendar current, ongoing events must be resubmitted each month. DEADLINE: All listings must be received by the 10th of the month prior to publication. Calendar events must be submitted online at NAChicago.com/Calendar.

ALL MONTH

Register for 2023 Chicago Excellence in Gardening Awards – May 1-June 30. The program is accepting online applications and winners will be announced at the annual ceremony in September at Wild Blossom Meadery and Winery. Open only to gardens in the city of Chicago, there is no entry fee and only one entry per garden accepted. ChicagoGardeningAwards.org

Spring Seed Swap – May 3-31. 10am-4pm, Wed-Sat; 12-4pm, Sun. Learn how to save and share your own seeds to grow wholesome food and foster sustainability. Drop off seeds you have saved and trade them for someone else’s. Free. Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 419 Trout Farm Rd, Bolingbrook. ReconnectWithNature.org

SUNDAY

Farmers Market+ at the Dole – May 28-Oct 29. No market: Jun 25 & Jul 2. 10am-2pm. Front lawn of Dole Mansion, 401 Country Club Rd, Crystal Lake. TheDole.org

Time to Dance: Ballet – 10:30am. Also 1:30pm, Tues & 5:30pm, Thurs. Although not beginner classes, dancers of all levels of experience welcome. In-person & Zoom. CBG Institute for Dance and Health, 505 Laurel Ave, Highland Park. To register: CBG-Institute.org

Free Aura Reading – 12:30-1:30pm. Also Sat. Learn more about your chakra energy system and manifest your dreams. Body & Brain, 860 S Milwaukee Ave, Libertyville. RSVP: 847-362-2724. BodyNBrain.com/ Libertyville

MONDAY

See NAChicago.com for latest events.

TUESDAY

Cultivating Guts Podcast: New Episode Release – 9am. Tiffany Hinton’s podcast where we discuss gardening, homesteading, gut health, following our intuition, herbalism and functional medicine to create a life of joy and beauty. Listen on Spotify, YouTube and iTunes. Free. Tinyurl.com/CultivatingG

Time to Dance: Ballet – 1:30pm. Also 10:30am, Sun & 5:30pm, Thurs. Although not beginner classes, dancers of all levels of experience welcome. In-person & Zoom. CBG Institute for Dance and Health, 505 Laurel Ave, Highland Park. To register: CBG-Institute.org

Community Meditation – 7-8pm. Doors close at 7:05pm. Different topics each week. Walk-ins welcome. Love donation. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

WEDNESDAY

Meridian Stretching – 10-11am. Develop strength, flexibility, breathing and energy. You may notice that our yoga classes offer a variety of exercises and poses, helping to keep your practice fun and dynamic while consistently covering the basics. In-person & online. Body & Brain, 860 S Milwaukee Ave, Libertyville. 847-362-2724. Libertyville@BodyNBrain.com BodyNBrain.com/ Libertyville

Arbor Evenings – May 31-Aug 23. 6-9pm. Friends and family can spend time together and enjoy live music while relaxing outdoors. $13/adults, $5/children, free/ages 1 and younger. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle. 630-968-0074. Details: MortonArb.org

Akashic Records & Angel Card Readings – 7-9pm. By appt. Have questions about your spiritual life? Ask for guidance from your angels and guides with an Akashic Record Angel Card Reading. What questions are on your mind now? $35/30 mins, $60/1 hr. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

THURSDAY

Time to Dance: Fitness – 9:30am. Emphasizes low-impact, high-intensity, cardio dance and fitness routines accompanied by music. Alternate dance with resistance routines to build and maintain muscle and bone density. In-person & Zoom. CBG Institute for Dance and Health, 505 Laurel Ave, Highland Park. To register: CBG-Institute.org

Numerology – 1-4pm. Call for appt; walkins taken when available. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. 847-7493922. ShopSacredGround.com

Time to Dance: Modern – 1:30pm. Although not beginner classes, dancers of all levels of experience welcome. In-person & Zoom. CBG Institute for Dance and Health, 505 Laurel Ave, Highland Park. To register: CBG-Institute.org

Time to Dance: Ballet – 5:30pm. Also 10:30am, Sun & 1:30pm, Tues. Although not beginner classes, dancers of all levels of experience welcome. In-person & Zoom. CBG Institute for Dance and Health, 505 Laurel Ave, Highland Park. To register: CBG-Institute.org

Community Healing Circle – 6pm. All welcome. Opens with a heart resonance meditation followed by reading each intention aloud while others practice focused silence. Closes with a restorative exercise to release, regenerate and renew. Free. Philosopher’s Stone Apothecary, 160 W Campbell St, Arlington Heights. 224-735-2355. PhilosophersStoneApothecary.com.

FRIDAY

St. Charles Indoor Farmers Market – 9am12pm. Baker Memorial Church, 307 Cedar Ave, St. Charles. BakerMemorialChurch.org

SATURDAY

Green City Market – 7am-1pm. Lincoln Park, 1817 N Clark St, Chicago. GreenCityMarket.org

Shamanic Healing Sessions – 11am-3pm. $60/60 mins. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. For appt: 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

Akashic Records & Angel Card Readings –12-4pm. Walk-ins welcome. $35/30 mins, $60/60 mins. Sacred Ground, 15 E Miner St, Arlington Heights. 847-749-3922. ShopSacredGround.com

Free Aura Reading – 12:30-1:30pm. See Sun listing. Body & Brain, 860 S Milwaukee Ave, Libertyville. RSVP: 847-362-2724. BodyNBrain.com/Libertyville

COMMUNITY RESOURCE GUIDE

Acupuncture and Traditional Oriental Medicine

CALANDRA CENTER FOR HEALTH & WELLNESS

Teri Calandra, MSTOM, Dipl Acu, LAc, LMT, RMT

830 E. Higgins Rd, Unit 116, Schaumburg 312-515-9492

Facebook @CalandraAcuChi

CalandraAcupuncture.com

We believe that when someone has the tools to help themselves that the possibilities are endless. Offering acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Medicine, herbal medicine, NAET allergy elimination, reiki, Access Consciousness, and a variety of wellness educational classes. Teri specializes in gynecological disorders, infertility, menopausal syndrome, musculoskeletal dysfunctions, allergies, respiratory disorders, digestive disorders, thyroid disorders.

CHIROCARE CLINIC WELLNESS CENTER

693 N Cass Ave, Westmont 60559

721 W Lake St, Ste 201, Addison 60101 630-601-6932

ChiroCareClinic2@gmail.com

ChiroCareWellnessClinic.com

At ChiroCare Clinic Wellness Center, we strive to get to the source of the problem, address the issue naturally, and restore proper body function for health and wellness. We not only help you get out of pain, but we also help you regain your life.

NIRVANA ACUPUNCTURE AND INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE

LANA MOSHKOVICH, LAC, ND, MSOM

707 Lake Cook Rd, Ste 125, Deerfield 60015 847-715-9044

NirvanaNaturopathics.com

We use acupuncture to help you get immediate relief from acute or chronic pain. Combining Western and Chinese Medicine, we can treat and resolve insomnia, anxiety, fertility and women’s health issues, plus chronic conditions. Certified NAET. Preferred MeiZen Provider. Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine. Major insurances accepted. Schedule your initial appointment on NirvanaNaturopathics.com. Get a healthier and alternative approach to your chronic health conditions. See ad on page 29.

Allergies

MIDWEST ALLERGY RELIEF CENTER

111 Barclay Blvd, Ste 101, Lincolnshire 60069 847-392-7901

MidwestAllergyRelief.com

Sage Healing Collective

525 S Tyler Rd, Ste S, St Charles 60174 331-901-5672

SageHealingCollective.com

Dr. Amanda Thiry, DC, BSN, uses Advanced Allergy Therapeutics (AAT), a non-invasive alternative technology that’s effective and safe for all ages, to identify and treat specific allergen elements that affect your quality of life. Discover how you can eat foods, be near pets and use products again that you now avoid, and experience a new lease on life.

Anti-Inflammatory Meal Services

CHEF BEAU’S KLEAN KITCHEN

Serving the Chicago area

26 Calendar Ave, La Grange 60525 708-354-4844

ChefBeausKleanKitchen.com

Chicagoland’s only Personal & Private Chef service focused on using the Kleanest food! Do you have inflammation? Do you have an autoimmune disease that you are trying to manage with food? Chef Beau’s meal service is available for pickup & delivery 2x a week. See ad on page 15.

Artisanal and Specialty Food Products

LIVE OIL BY LESNA

773-739-4857

LesnaOils@gmail.com

LiveOilByLesna.com

Offering exclusive organic oils from nuts and seeds, pressed whole and raw—100% natural, cold-derived and carefully pressed by hand in unique wooden barrels. No chemicals, preservatives or additives. Unique room temperature extraction ensures oils are fresh, never bitter and always maintain high-level nutrition. See website for complete line of LIVE oils, flours and skincare products.

Bodywork

MAGIC HANDS THERAPEUTIC BODYWORK

Deb Lawrence

Wheaton and Schaumburg

630-202-3641

MagicHandsBirth.com

Helping adults, children and babies to release pain and tightness and find comfort through the Craniosacral Fascia Therapy/Gillespie Approach. Deb Lawrence, LMT, offers effective, light touch therapy by identifying the tightness and assisting it to safely release, including tight, fussy babies with nursing challenges as well as children and adults with tightness and pain. See ad on page 13.

ZEN SHIATSU CHICAGO

825 Chicago Ave, Evanston 60202 847-864-1130

ZenShiatsuChicago.org

You’ll feel the stress melt away like the snow in spring through our relaxation-focused shiatsu massage practice, which offers the same energizing benefits as acupuncture combined with the restorative power of yoga poses. Dress in cozy threads, shiatsu is performed on fully clothed clients. Professional and student therapists available. See ad on back cover.

Bookstores

THE GREEN READ

61 N Williams St, Crystal Lake 60014 779-220-4945

THE GREEN SPOT

110 S Johnson St, Woodstock 60098 815-527-7122

TheGreenReadBookstore@gmail.com

mcdef.org/bookstores

The Green Read and The Green Spot bookstores are committed to providing high-quality, gently used books to our communities. The Green Read also carries new, hand-crafted and sustainable puzzles, gifts and stationery products. The bookstores are run by the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County. All purchases support their environmental projects.

Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community.

Chiropractic

CHIROCARE CLINIC WELLNESS CENTER

693 N Cass Ave, Westmont 60559

721 W Lake St, Ste 201, Addison 60101 630-601-6932

ChiroCareClinic2@gmail.com

ChiroCareWellnessClinic.com

At ChiroCare Clinic Wellness Center we strive to get to the source of the problem, address the issue naturally, and restore proper body function for health and wellness. We not only help you get out of pain, but we also help you regain your life.

Coaching & Counseling

DEW HEALTH COACHING

Elizabeth Lynch

312-504-8754 • ElizabethGLynch@gmail.com

Using evidence-based techniques, the certified coaches at Dew Health Coaching provide talkbased and whole-person support for individuals looking to optimize their well-being.

Crystal and Rock Stores

GEMZ AND BOARDZ

3101 W Montrose Ave, Chicago 60618 872-218-0307 • GemzAndBoardz.com

Retail and online

90s-themed crystal and skateboard shop with an amazing selection of rocks and crystals, handmade jewelry, local products, boards and more at great prices. We’re also an internet café for work and relaxing with coffee and tea available. Check out our events, pop-ups, game nights and facility party rental options.

Dance for Health

TIME TO DANCE WITH CBG INSTITUTE FOR DANCE & HEALTH

North Shore School of Dance

505 Laurel Ave, Highland Park 60035

DanceForJoy16@gmail.com

CBG-Institute.org

Digestive Health Specialist

RENEÉ S. BARASCH, LDHS

Telehealth and In-Office

847-207-2034

DigestiveHealthSolutions.com

Digestive problems? Acid Reflux/ GERD, IBS, Crohn’s, colitis? Let us help you naturally achieve nutritional balance, feel better and enhance the quality of your life. Improve digestion while reducing discomfort and bloating so you can eat the foods you love again. Certified digestive health specialist/enzyme therapist. See ads on pages 5 and 49.

Energy Gemstones & Jewelry

JOANN LYSIAK, ENERGY SPECIALIST

Joann Lysiak Gems

847-596-0274

Joann@JoannLysiakGems. com

JoannLysiakGems.com

Gemstones have energy properties that you can benefit from when wearing them or displaying them. Using the energy properties, you can attract love, abundance or increase your intuition and Spiritual Consciousness or strengthen your energy. View my collection with purpose or let me intuitively find the perfect gemstone for you.

Float Therapy

FLOTSTONE

57 E Scranton Ave, Lake Bluff 60044 847-482-1700 • Flotstone.com

Floatation therapy is quickly being recognized as a very safe and effective way to shift into the parasympathetic state of total relaxation. Floating cradles you in its graceful healing waters optimizing your body’s ability to do what it does best, heal! Float effortlessly in over 1,250 lbs of Epsom salt. See ad on page 21.

Functional Medicine

DR. ALLA ARUTCHEVA, MD, PHD, ND

Antalee Wellness

1352 Patriot Blvd, Glenview 60026 847-486-1130 • AntaleeHolistic.com

HEAL N CURE MEDICAL WELLNESS

Meena Malhotra, MD, ABIM, ABOM

2420 Ravine Way, Ste 400, Glenview 60025

847-686-4444 • HealNCure.com

Specializing in medical wellness, weight loss, hormone balancing, diabetes, fibromyalgia and anti-aging, using integrative and functional medicine. We find and resolve the root cause of medical conditions and achieve outstanding, lasting results for our patients, many of which had almost given up on wellness goals. Free educational seminars. PPO insurance and Medicare accepted for covered services. See ad on page 2.

Holistic & Airway Dentistry

DR. ALLA AVER, DDS

2400 Ravine Way, Suite 400, Glenview 60025

847-998-5100

GlenviewSmiles.com

Our office uses whole-body, preventive dental care. We utilize non-fluoridated ozonated water, herbal periodontal treatments, and gluten-free herbal paste. We offer: safe amalgam removal; BPA-free fillings and sealants; non-metal crowns; sleep apnea and TMJ appliances; ozone therapy; microscopic plaque analysis; material reactivity testing kits; and non-acrylic night guards, partials.

K. BOEHM, DDS, & ASSOCIATES

1585 N Barrington Rd, Ste 106, Hoffman Estates 60069 | 847-884-1220 1440 Maple Ave, Ste 2A, Lisle 60532 630-810-1280 | KBoehmDDS.com

Offering state-of-the-art holistic dental care in a relaxed environment, Dr. Boehm and his staff are ready to meet all your dental needs in either of his two locations. Bio-compatible materials and an extensive knowledge of the correlation between oral and overall health are his specialties. Services include safe mercury removal, electrodermal screening for materials compatibility and tooth viability, crowns, bridges, dentures, zirconia implants, homeopathy, cranial osteopathy, orthodontics, ozone therapy, CT/3D imaging, and laser treatment for both gum disease and decay.

SERENITY DENTAL

Dr. Dawn Diehnelt, DDS

12 W Schaumburg Rd, Schaumburg 60194 847-519-1711

Discover the healing art of dance through ballet, modern and tap for adults 50+. Dance is proven to have both physical and psychological benefits.

Taught by dancer teachers Lisa Gold, Lynne Chervony Belsky, MD, and Lorraine Chase. See ad on page 15.

If you are seeking integrative and natural approach to your wholebody health, Dr. Arutcheva will use her extensive knowledge, training and experience to work with you to create a personalized plan to prevent and overcome illness based on her strategy of health screening tests, stateof-the-art technology and the best natural supplements. These methods accelerate your ways to optimum health and prevent the development of serious chronic diseases. See ad on page 11.

SerenityDentalSchaumburg.com

Family dentist emphasizing the connection between airway, dental and overall health. Persistent airway issues can cause crooked teeth, sleep apnea, snoring, ADHD, bedwetting, difficulty concentrating—even anxiety and depression. Our approach naturally develops jaws, improves facial balance and straightens teeth, opening the airway to improve breathing and sleeping. See ad on page 35.

WRIGLEYVILLE DENTAL

Dr. Bernice Teplitsky, DDS, PC

3256 N Ashland, Chicago 60657

773-975-6666

WrigleyvilleDental.com

Chicago’s premier biological holistic dentists. Offering the latest technology, we provide ozone, lasers, same-day-crowns and BPA/fluoride-free nontoxic products. Several dentists on staff with unique specialties provide safe amalgam removal, PRF facials, orthodontics, TMJ, sleep/airway, children’s dentistry and countless other treatments. One home for all your dental needs. Free garage parking. See ad on page 25.

Holistic Health Practitioner

BIO-ENERGY CENTER

Kankakee Natural Foods

BioEnergy Center

815-933-6236

KankakeeNaturalFoods.com

Our BioEnergy Center brings together stateof-the-art machines in one location for an integrative wellness experience. Our approach to healing meets each client’s unique needs through personalized testing and therapies. Come as you are, no appointment needed. Kankakee Natural Foods Wellness under One Roof.

CENTER FOR HEALING AND INTEGRATION

700 E Ogden, Ste 304, Westmont 60559 630-828-2953

HealingAndIntegration.com

Center for Healing and Integration is a new sanctuary for holistic healing in Westmont. Offering acupuncture, meditation, reiki, nutrition, massage, counseling, yoga, sound healings and more. Experience group and individual sessions, workshops, private events and corporate retreats for the mind, body and spirit.

Hyperbaric Therapy

HYPERBARIC CHICAGOLAND

4200 Grove Ave, Brookfield 60513 708-510-0292

HyperbaricChicagoland.com

Hyperbaric Chicagoland is a 20-year-old clinic committed to providing comprehensive, high-quality and affordable hyperbaric oxygen treatment for the entire family. Administered in a one-hour painless, non-invasive session, with practitioner present. Hourly cost-effective rates of $65 and prepaid 10-hour blocks of chamber time for $500. See ad on page 25.

Hypnosis-Hypnotherapy

BRUCE G. SKEDD, MS, CI, CHT, CT.NLP, CM.NLP, CHLC

NGH Certified Instructor

Vm/text: 630-778-0899

Hypnocat10@gmail.com

Wishing you a Better Year filled with Success. Bad habits don’t happen overnight and unsupported willpower often is unsuccessful. If you’ve decided it’s time for a Successful change in your weight, sleep or fitness Hypnosis may be your Easy and Natural path to Success this year. CALL Bruce now at 630-778-0899.

Integrative Medicine

BROOKFIELD HEALTH & WELLNESS, LLC

150 S Sunnyslope Rd, Ste 148, Brookfield, WI 262-395-4023

BrookfieldHealthAndWellness.com

Our passion is helping patients maximize their health, allowing you to live life to the absolute fullest. We approach each patient as an individual by assessing the body with state-of-the art, bio-energetic technology to identify underlying root cause issues. See ad on page 39.

THE EISENSTEIN CLINIC

Jennifer Eisenstein APN, DNP 415 W Golf Rd, Ste 2, Arlington Hts, 60005 847-329-2020

EisensteinClinic.com

We are a nurse practitioner-owned and -operated clinic, offering comprehensive family care for everyone from newborns to adults. We share our passion for health care, overall wellness and parental rights in guiding their children’s care, using natural alternatives when possible. Clinic director Jen is double-board certified as a family nurse practitioner and a doctor of nursing practice. Most insurance accepted.

thriveMD – OPTIMAL HEALTH

Dr. Greg Seaman

1355 Remington Rd, Ste I, Schaumburg IL 60173 312-600-5070 • Info@thriveMD.org

Using IV therapies, PRP, weight management and other natural programs, we help conditions like fatigue, brain fog, hormone imbalance, pain, injury, weight gain, decreased performance, tickborne disease and more. After an initial consultation, we design your custom program to obtain true optimal health, which includes living a healthy lifestyle and being committed to yourself.

Integrative Psychotherapy

ELLEN KATZ, MS, LMFT

Clinical Director, Inner Balance

Chicago, Palm Springs

847-224-0244

EllenKatz.net

Ellen’s 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist integrates a conscious approach to healing old patterns through a mix of trauma and mindfulness-based psychotherapies, HMR, Lifeline, The Work (Byron Katie), energy medicine and somatic awareness. Join Meetup.com “Inner Balance Meditation” for updates on her events, and visit her at EllenKatz.net

Lifelong Learning & Personal Growth

THE EDGAR CAYCE HOLISTIC CENTER AND BOOKSTORE

At Unity Northwest Church

259 E Central Rd, Des Plaines 60016 847-299-6535

AREChicagoCenter@gmail.com

Full-service bookstore, Cayce remedies, spiritual growth study groups, monthly programs, workshops and holistic fairs, intuitive skills development training, knowledgeable seekers, intuitives, healers and more. Call for hours. See ad on page 23.

INFINITY FOUNDATION

1280 Old Skokie Rd, Highland Park 60035 847-831-8828 • InfinityFoundation.org

Infinity Foundation Annual Gala, May 19, includes practitioner fair, elegant dinner and keynote by Andrew Harvey. May 20, Harvey, in-person live workshop, Love is Everything, lunch is included. CEUs available. Call for free course guide See ad on page 27.

Meditation Center

KADAMPA MEDITATION CENTER CHICAGO

13 Harrison St, Oak Park 60304 2010 W Pierce Ave, Chicago 60622 708-763-0132 • MeditateInChicago.org

Meditation and modern Buddhism. Everyone welcome. We offer an array of drop-in classes, weekend events, and retreats open to everyone and suitable for all levels of experience. A nonprofit, all-volunteer organization, we’re dedicated to sharing the practical wisdom of Buddha’s teachings with Chicagoland through meditation and mindfulness practices.

CLASSIFIEDS

AKASHIC CONSULTATION

AKASHIC RECORD READING – Open the record of your soul’s journey to find information to support you in your life right now, heal your past and help you into your future. Heal. Grow. Investigate. Find direction. Lin Ewing: 847-609-0034. AstrologicalDetails.com

ASTROLOGY

ASTROLOGY – Understand yourself, your motivations, your feelings. Recognize your talents, strengths, successes. Overcome difficulties and confusion. Astrology can help pull it all together. Relationships. Career. Plan the future. Serious astrology for serious seekers. Private, personal consultations. Lin Ewing: 847-609-0034. AstrologicalDetails.com

HELP WANTED

HIGHLAND HEALTH FOODS IS HIRING – Part-time sales associates. Employees receive free product samples, monthly product allowances, trainings and more. 847-831-0460.

INTEGRATIVE TEAM OF PRACTITIONERS – Looking for individual contractors interested in renting a beautiful office, while working together. Focus on mind, body, soul connection. Email: JRutkowski@HealingAndIntegration.com

RAVINIA FARMERS MARKET ASSISTANT/ MANAGER TRAINEE – Seeking one assistant to learn responsibilities of being the Ravinia Farmers Market (Highland Park) manager. Market runs Wednesday mornings June 7-Oct 25. Position hours 5am-1pm. For more info, Ed Kugler: 847-579-9080. RaviniaFarmersMarket.com

RAVINIA FARMERS MARKET HELPERS AND VOLUNTEERS – Help needed with information booth, market set-up and teardown, social media, community outreach and more. Paid and volunteer positions available. Market runs Wednesday mornings June 7-Oct 25. For more info, Ed Kugler: 847-579-9080. RaviniaFarmersMarket.com

RAVINIA FARMERS MARKET VENDOR ASSISTANTS – Seeking help for various vendor booths at the Ravinia Farmers Market (Highland Park). Market runs Wednesday mornings June 7-Oct 25. For more info, Ed Kugler: 847-579-9080. RaviniaFarmersMarket.com

YOUR LISTING CAN BE HERE – Visit NAChicago.com/classifieds

PETS

HERBS FOR DOGS – Herbs and vitamins could help your dogs live a healthier and happier life. Learn more: HolisticHerbsForDogs.com

Nutritional IV Therapy

thriveMD

1355 Remington Rd, Ste I Schaumburg IL 60173

312-600-5070

• thriveMD.com

Thrive MD offers a way to deliver vital fluids, vitamins, electrolytes and nutrients directly into the bloodstream which can restore hydration, support the immune system and aid in faster recovery. Offerings include nutritional immune support, weight loss, vitality and stress relief.

Nutraceutical and Supplements

FUFLUNS’ FOODS

Perry Galanopoulos, Owner Info@FuFlunsFoods.com | FuFlunsFoods.com

FuFluns’ is a Chicago-based, family-owned, provider of mushroom and botanical supplements. We utilize pre-industrial, astrologically influenced, farming and extraction practices, which are better for both people and planet. Offered online and by discerning healthcare practitioners. See ad on page 35.

Reiki and Energy Medicine

ENERGYGIRL, LLC

708-703-0110

EnergyGirl2020@gmail.com

EnergyGirl2020.com

Healing for you and your pets. Mary Walters, RN, EEM-CP, started her business to help people and animals become the best versions of themselves. She uses reiki, frequency healing and energy medicine techniques to help her clients find optimal harmony and balance. Classes are also available. See ad on page 14.

Skeletal Strengthening

OSTEOSTRONG

126 Skokie Rd, Wilmette 60091 847 487 8833

195 W Golf Rd, Schaumburg, 60195 224 487 8881

OsteoStrong.me

OsteoStrong is an Integrative Health and Wellness Center with a focus on musculoskeletal strengthening. The 4-device circuit takes only minutes once per week to complete. Under the direction of a skilled technician, users engage in a safe, controlled, movement that results in a stimulus to the central nervous system triggering osteogenesis or new bone growth. See ad on page 9.

Thermography, Thermometry & Ultrasound

NORTHWEST MEDICAL SCREENING (formerly known as Northwest Medical Thermography)

Locations across Chicago area 224-600-3216

Facebook: @northwesthealingcenter

NWMedicalScreening.com

Erica Cody is a certified thermographer and works with a team of technicians and doctors together focusing on women and men’s health. Our scans help to indicate issues throughout the body, including head, breast, abdominal and pelvis. Women’s Health Check half-body scans can also detect dysfunction and provide indications for further investigation. Multiple locations: see website for schedule and to make an appointment. See ad on page 19.

MEN'S HEALTH

BEGINNING ZEN SHIATSU

10-Week Sessions

June 21 - August 23, Wed 7-10pm

September 5 - November 7, Tues 10am - 1pm

September 7 - November 9, Thurs 7-10pm

2-Weekend Intensive

Earn your massage license while studying holistic therapy! www.zenshiatsu.edu

July 14-16 & 21-23, Fri 7-10pm, Sat/Sun 9:30am-4:30pm zenshiatsu.edu/ce/beginning_zen_shiatsu/

E-mail info@zenshiatsu.edu or call 847-864-1130 to sign up today!