Natural Awakenings Houston March 2023

Veggies for the Win

Five Reasons to Choose a Plant-Based Lifestyle

Loving Our Kidneys

Edible Allies, Integrative Treatments and Lifestyle Tips

Sweet Lullaby

Better Sleep for Children

FOOD & NUTRITION

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Greetings!

Springtime will officially be here soon, and with it the tradition and urge to do some spring cleaning. You don’t have to search the internet long to find dozens of articles and videos about decluttering and letting go of things, and it’s easy to start feeling like that if your office or home has a bit of clutter or isn’t spotlessly clean that there is something wrong with you.

While we do feel better when things are clean and neat, Cindy and I have found that they never stay that way for long. Life is just too busy to take time to clean everything and put it back in its proper place after every use. Things tend to pile up, but we are learning that it is okay for the cabin and the office to look “lived in” rather than expect it to look like a display home—and really, that is what spring cleaning is about; that time maybe once or twice a year when you do a deep cleaning and in-between, things drift back to normal.

This month is our annual food and nutrition issue, where you will find articles and recipes that can help you and your family eat and live healthier lives. If you see something that especially resonates with you, share it with a friend. If you are in need of the services of one of our advertisers, don’t put it off; contact them today, because your good health really is the most precious thing you have. And when you do, please mention Natural Awakenings

Finally, take time to enjoy life. Spend time outdoors, especially on one of the increasingly frequent warm sunny days. And don’t forget to be kind.

Cindy & Mike Hart

Revived IV Therapy is Houston's Premier Holistic Health and Wellness Spa. We provide personalized vitamin-infused IV therapy treatments, intramuscular injections, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, and more. In partnership with a diverse cast of certified medical professionals, including Medical Directors, Registered Nurses, and Clinical Pharmacists, we have perfectly blended formulations that have been infused to create customizable wellness packages for every customer's individual goals. We optimize wellness, performance, recovery, and health.

HOUSTON EDITION

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Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

Nonprofit EarthShare Texas is conducting My Earth My Texas, an Earth Month sustainability challenge, supporting the missions and envirionmentsal work of more than 30 nonprofit members. Open to individuals, groups and businesses, My Earth My Texas begins March 31 and ends on Earth Day, April 22. Participants may complete sustainability challenges at home, school, work, community gardens or local parks.

Individuals may register for free for the Instagram challenge. Groups and businesses can register for the challenge that takes place on the EarthShare Engage App. Prices start at $250 for a group of up to 25 teammates.

Contestants have the opportunity to show off their green pride by completing sustainability activites that benefit them, their community, workplace and/or state. Each challenge completed earns the participant points that could win them cool, eco-prizes.

For more information, visit Tinyurl.com/MyEarth-MyTexas or email estx@earthshare-texas.org.

Bayou City Art Festival Benefits Nonprofits

One of the top outdoor art festivals in the nation, the Bayou City Art Festival, held from 10 a.m. 6 p.m., March 24 to 26 in Memorial Park, will showcase the works of 280 artists in 19 different categories to benefit local nonprofits. Patrons can meet the artists and purchase one-of-a-kind art, prints, jewelry, sculptures, functional art and more at all price levels. This year’s featured artist is Dewey James, a mixed media artist from Minneapolis.

There are two entertainment stages, food trucks, a craft beer and wine garden, a VIP Hospitality Lounge and entertainment. Festival nonprofit partners will host art activities for all ages and an interactive area for all attendees to enjoy. An exhibition of student artwork comprising the top 30 finalists from the Middle School Art Competition will be featured.

Location: S. Picnic Loop Lane, Houston. Online pre-purchased tickets at BayouCityArtFestival.com are required to enter the festival. Tickets will not be sold at the gate. Admission is $18 for adults, $5 for children 6 to12, and children under 5 are free. Adult tickets purchased after Mar. 15th are $20. VIP Hospitality Lounge tickets are $75 and include admission to the festival.

Learn About Buddhism with Dawn Mountain

Dawn Mountain Center for Tibetan Buddhism will present a program from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., March 25, online on Zoom, for teens curious about Buddha’s story, lessons and principles. What is Buddhism? will discuss the history of Buddhism; the effects of meditation on the brain and mental health; three meditation techniques to calm the body and mind; and questions such as What is karma? What is reincarnation? Who do Buddhists pray to? and What are important religious items to Buddhists?

Dawn mountain family educator Simone Woodage, RNBSN, is trained as an Inner Kids instructor through Susan Kaiser Greenland, author of The Mindful Child: How to Help Your Child Cope With Stress and Become Happier, Kinder and More Compassionate. She holds a certificate in mindfulness fundamentals from Mindful Schools and is currently enrolled in their online curriculum training program.

Dawn Mountain’s mission is to further the spiritual growth of our diverse community as a living bridge between traditional Tibetan Buddhist teachings and curious people everywhere.

Attendance is free. For more information, visit DawnMountain.org/buddhateens

Sahaja Yoga Meditation Centennial

Guru Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi, the founder of sahaja yoga meditation, was born on March 21, 1923, in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, India, and raised in a Christian family that fought for India’s independence. Her family could sense her depth and spiritual inclination, and in 1930, at the age of 7, she gave a speech at Mahatma Gandhi’s Sabarmati ashram. In the 1940s, Mataji attended the Christian Medical College in Lahore, India (now Pakistan) to study medicine. In 1947, she married Chandrika Prasad Srivastava and had two daughters.

In, 1970, she developed the meditation technique of sahaja yoga, believing enlightenment and spirituality was a human right, not to be made into a business, and spent the rest of her life traveling the world with her message. As her 100th birthday approaches, sahaja yoga meditation is practiced across the world in over 100 countries, with roots in Houston dating back to the early 80s.

The Sahaja Yoga Houston Meditation Center is located at 4510 C, Hwy. 6 North, in Houston. For a list of weekly classes, visit Houston-Meditation.org.

A new study may shed light on why some people gain more weight than others regardless of diet and activity levels. Led by researchers at the University of Copenhagen and published in the journal Microbiome, the study found that being overweight may also be related to the makeup of a person’s gut microbiome. The researchers studied 85 overweight adults and found that 40 percent of the participants had more Bacteroides in their gut microbiome, which are more effective at extracting nutrients from food, possibly causing leftover food to be stored as fat. Before they began their study, the researchers had hypothesized that a long digestive travel time would allow people to extract more energy from their food, but they found instead that people with shorter digestive travel times were actually the ones that extracted the most nutrition. Those with Bacteroides had shorter intestinal transit times and higher body weight.

Supplements That Help the Heart

A new study conducted by researchers at Brown University has identified certain supplements that may be beneficial for heart health. The meta-analysis published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology reviewed more than 884 studies on 27 types of micronutrient supplements among 883,627 participants and found strong evidence that omega-3 fatty acid, folic acid and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) are micronutrients that reduce cardiovascular risk. Omega-3 fatty acid was found to decrease mortality from cardiovascular disease; folic acid lowered stroke risk; and CoQ10 decreased all-cause mortality. Omega-6 fatty acid, L-arginine, L-citrulline, melatonin, magnesium, vitamin D, zinc, alpha-lipoic acid, catechin, flavanol, curcumin, genistein and quercetin also showed evidence of reducing cardiovas-

Wooden Wind Turbines

Wind turbines provide one of the cleanest sources of energy; the power they produce is free, helping us reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. Several European companies are working to improve wind turbines by further reducing their carbon footprint. Stora Enso, one of the largest private forest owners in the world, has partnered with Voodin Blade Technology of Germany to make sustainable wooden, wind turbine blades. They are currently producing 66-foot blades and plan to make 262-foot blades in the future. These sustainable, laminated veneer, lumber blades have a high load-bearing capacity, are lighter and reduce the use of fossil fuels in manufacturing. Because they are relatively lightweight, the blades can be transported without heavy-duty equipment, further reducing their carbon impact. Stora Enso is also partnering with Swedish wood technology company Modvion in an effort to make wood the material of choice for wind turbine towers.

Vaccine Approved

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), more than 100 U.S. crops depend on pollination by honeybees and other insects. Safeguarding commercial honeybee colonies is critical to food production as there has been an alarming population decline in wild species due to habitat loss, pesticide use and the climate crisis.

Recently, the USDA granted a two-year conditional license for a vaccine that protects honeybees from American foulbrood disease (AFB), a widespread, destructive ailment. The non-GMO inoculation will initially be available to commercial beekeepers and can be used in organic agriculture.

Prior to this booster, the only treatment method for AFB required beekeepers to burn the infected hives and equipment. According to vaccine manufacturer Dalan Animal Health, their vaccination is incorporated into the royal jelly, which worker bees feed to the queen. Once ingested, fragments of the treatment are deposited in the queen’s ovaries, providing developing larvae AFB immunity as they hatch.

Nations Agree to Protect Biodiversity

Scientists have warned for years that as forests and grasslands are disappearing at unprecedented rates and oceans are pressured by pollution, humans are pushing Earth beyond tenable limits. In December 2022, nearly 200 countries agreed on a Global Biodiversity Framework at the United Nations 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity. The historic agreement represents hope for real progress to halt the loss of biodiversity. Among its numerous provisions, the framework commits nations to protect 30 percent of the world’s lands, inland waters, coastal areas and oceans by 2030; increase financing for nature restoration and protection; halt human-induced extinction; and protect the rights of indigenous people. The protections will emphasize areas of particular importance for biodiversity and ecosystem functioning and services.

Throughout the talks there was division over the strength of the measures and how to finance them. In a statement released by the Wildlife Conservation Society, vice president of international policy Susan Lieberman said, “The [framework] is a compromise, and although it has several very good and hard-fought elements, it could have gone further to truly transform our destructive relationship with nature.” During negotiations, some countries called for a new fund to be set up to help preserve biodiversity, but this recommendation was not included in the final pact.

HOUSTON METRO Chiropractic Guide

Core Chiropractic

Drs.Natalie & Philip Cordova, DC

1770 St. James Place, #210

Houston 77056

713-622-3300

corechiropractic.net

Innate Chiropractic Healing Arts Center

Dr. Jackie St.Cyr, DC

8100 Washington Ave, #210

Houston 77007

713-521-2104

n8chiro.com

HealthPro Chiropractic & Acupuncture

Dr. Alayna E. Pagnani-Gendron, DC

4101 Green Briar Dr. #135

Houston 77098

281-506-0105

healthprochiro.com

Franson Chiropractic

Dr. Brett V. Franson, DC

1652 South Dairy Ashford Rd.

Houston 77077

281-701-1596

fransonchiropractor.com

Whale Makes Long Journey

Each year, humpback whales migrate from the frigid waters near Alaska and western Canada to the warm waters of Mexico and Hawaii to breed and give birth. At the end of 2022, an extraordinary whale named Moon made the 3,100-mile journey from British Columbia to Hawaii with a broken back. The Canadian researchers that have been tracking Moon for the past decade discovered that the entire lower portion of her tail was bent into an unnatural “S” shape, presumably as a result of a boat strike.

Researchers speculate the whale made the arduous journey without the use of her tail, essentially using the breaststroke to make her migration. The journey left Moon emaciated when she reached Hawaii, having used up her fat stores and with no hope of recovery, given the scarce food resources in the tropical waters. Moon’s story serves as a cautionary tale for the devastating effects of ship collisions with whales. Boaters are reminded to treat whale areas like school zones and slow down to keep marine creatures safe.

Eco-Friendly Water Heating

When it comes time to replace the water heater, homeowners have an opportunity to save money and significantly lower their carbon footprint by choosing more efficient appliances. In the U.S., most homes are equipped with water heaters that require a large storage tank. The water has to be heated continually, leading to $400 to $600 water heating bills every year.

A tankless model requires less space, lasts longer and costs less to operate. Because it does not hold water, cold water flows into the unit and is heated only when needed. This can save energy because the unit does not need to heat gallons of water that aren’t being used.

One drawback is that tankless devices may require a gas line and may be a challenge for older homes because of the necessary permits and electrical upgrades. Whether it has a tank or not, choose an Energy Star-certified model, which is deemed to be more efficient and often comes with a rebate or tax credit. Visit EnergyStar.gov for more information.

Some people may opt for a solar water heating system, which can cut annual hot water costs in half. Homes that generate their own power with solar panels may eliminate the annual cost altogether.

Another option is a heat pump water heater that uses 70 percent less energy than standard water heaters and is currently eligible for a $300 federal tax credit. According to Energy Saver, a U.S. Department of Energy consumer resource (Energy.gov), heat pump water heaters use electricity to move heat from one place to another instead of generating heat directly.

After installing a new unit, be sure to recycle the old water heater. Ask the retailer of the new appliance if they participate in a take-back program, or coordinate with the installer to arrange for proper recycling.

If the water heater doesn’t need replacement yet, consider that for every 10-degree decrease in the temperature setting on a conventional tank there is a corresponding 3 to 5 percent energy savings. Lower temperatures also reduce mineral buildup and corrosion in the tank and pipes.

Keep in mind that the easiest way to lower a household’s water heating is simply to use less hot water. Look for ways to decrease the family’s use of hot water by taking baths or shorter showers, washing laundry with cold water and running the dishwater on the energy-efficient setting.

Ketamine Finding New Applications

by Martin Miron

MindScape Ketamine & Infusion Therapy provides customized ketamine therapy specifically directed to optimize success while being mindful of the cost, emotional, mental and physical needs of patients. Dr. Michael Ho, a board certified anesthesiologist with more than 36 years of teaching and working experience, says, “Through this innovative way of treating depression, we hope to see patients reap the benefits of ketamine therapy and lead happier flourishing lives.”

He delivers Concierge IV Ketamine Therapy for off-label use in treatment-resistant depression, mood disorders and chronic pain conditions affordably. Ketamine has been used as an anesthetic for 50 years. “Today, we utilize experimental ketamine infusion therapy to help alleviate the side effects of depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain and so much more,” says Ho.

Ho serves as the director of Safe Sleep Anesthesia and course director of Anesthesiology Consultants, in Houston, with more than 20,000 hours of anesthesia instruction to his credit. After graduating from Cornell University and earning a medical degree from the Washington University School of Medicine, He was a staff physician at the University of Texas Department of Anesthesiology at Memorial-Hermann Hospital for 10 years and has received many awards for excellence in teaching at the Baylor College of Medicine and the University of Texas Medical Branch. Ho has published 15 publications, seven onsite courses and 17 webinars.

Ketamine has had an ongoing presence in the clinical industry since the 1960s and is an essential component of the anesthesiology field because it can maintain cardiorespiratory stability in patients who need to be sedated, while also offering a certain level of numbness towards pain.

Other treatments for depression such as traditional drugs focus on regulating serotonin in the brain, which has an effect on an individual’s moods, anxiety, and other cognitive abilities. However, these medications can take a while to begin working regularly and they come with a laundry list of side effects.

Antidepressants can be ineffective for about 30 percent of people, and the most common side effects of traditional antidepressants include constipation, dry mouth, skewed or blurred vision, increased anxiety or aggression, dizziness, weight gain, nausea, diminished sex drive, drowsiness and insomnia.

Off-lable ketamine treatment is different from classic forms of medication because it focuses on interacting with the neurotransmitter glutamine, a converted amino acid that is crucial in supporting the central nervous system. Glutamic acid can have an effect on balancing out emotions. With careful administration, ketamine can be used to treat PTSD and other forms of depression and anxiety.

MindScape Ketamine & Infusion Therapy is located at 2211 Norfolk St., Ste. 215, in Houston. For appointments and more information, call 346-439-9600, email Info@MindscapeKetamine.com or visit MindscapeKetamine.com.

Veggies for the Win

FIVE REASONS TO CHOOSE A PLANT-BASED LIFESTYLE

by Kiki Powers, MS, CNC

Many of us have come across the term “plant-based eating”. Perhaps the regimen was recommended to us by a medical or nutritional professional. We may have read about it in a magazine or seen a documentary on the subject. Scientists around the globe have studied this lifestyle choice, and persuasive evidence is mounting that eating a preponderance of foods from plant sources has health merits.

The concept is attributed to T. Colin Campbell, Ph.D., the Jacob Gould Schurman professor emeritus of nutritional biochemistry at Cornell University. Based on his extensive research, he has advocated a low-fat, whole food, plant-based diet since the 1980s, and his commentary appears in Forks Over Knives, an influential 2011 documentary on the subject that is still worth viewing.

Americans love their cheeseburgers and french fries, and breaking a habit that we thoroughly enjoy might be challenging at first. But we need not completely ban such delights from our menu, so long as our plates are brimming with vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, beans, healthy oils, nuts and seeds most of the time. Gradually transitioning to a whole food, plant-based, low-fat diet is the winning formula for positive change and long-term compliance.

Here are five compelling reasons to make this promising dietary shift.

Cost-Effective Disease Prevention

As so many Americans struggle with chronic health issues, including obesity, diabetes and heart disease, physicians are hard-pressed to find the right combination of treatments to help their patients lead healthier lives. At the same time, healthcare costs continue to skyrocket. In 2020, health spending rose to $4.1 trillion, or $12,530 per capita, according to the American Medical Association.

In a 2013 article published in The Permanente Journal, California physicians surveyed leading research and case studies and found that plant-based diets offer patients

a low-risk, cost-effective intervention to regulate weight, blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels. They also asserted that such eating regimens could reduce the number of medications patients would have to take for chronic disease, and that physicians should recommend such diets to all of their patients, especially those suffering from high blood pressure, diabetes, cardiovascular disease or obesity.

Besides saving money on drugs and medical procedures, a plant-based menu has never been easier or more affordable.

According to recent data conducted by the UK nonprofit Veganuary, plant-based meals eaten at home cost 40 percent less than meat- or fish-based meals and take one-third less time to prepare.

“The most powerful tool I discovered while in practice for both preventing and treating chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure and arthritis was the implementation of a plant-based nutritional plan to a patient’s life,” says Ted Crawford, a board-certified family physician featured

Flavor, Freshness and Flavonoids

The latest food trend is a “burger” made entirely of plants. The race is on to see which one looks and tastes closest to a juicy, all-beef patty. Whether it’s mushrooms posing as “steak” or wheat-based seitan kneaded into “chicken”, recipes catering to carnivores have their audience. For some, these tasty alternatives may offer a path toward becoming a vegetarian or vegan.

Oven-roasted on a sheet pan, splashed with extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice, sprinkled with fresh herbs and spices, served with a creamy dip, slow-cooked in a crockpot, baked into a pie, frothed into a sweet smoothie or freshly pulled from the vine, consider the fact that whole, plant-based foods taste delicious on their own and deserve the spotlight.

They are good and good for us, packed with nutrition while low in fat and calories. The vibrant colors of fruits and vegetables—as varied as the rainbow—are evidence of the many healthful attributes they offer. Ditching animal fats, white flour and sugar in favor of fresh, whole plant foods found at a local farmers market ensures a rich intake of vitamins, minerals, trace elements, phytonutrients, fiber, antioxidants, flavonoids, protein, fiber and more—the building blocks of a robust, disease-fighting body.

Those that believe a plant-based diet is too limiting might be surprised to learn that there is a wealth of meat-free culinary possibilities. Garth Davis, M.D., author of Proteinaholic: How Our Obsession With Meat Is Killing Us and What We Can Do About It, notes, “Just 12 plants and five animals compose about 75 percent of the world’s food, and yet there are approximately 300,000 known edible plant species, only about 150 of which are used commonly around the world.”

There are so many plant-derived flavors and recipes yet to explore. Try a new plant-based recipe weekly. Let the kids select their favorite fruits and veggies to prepare. Enjoy reimagining old favorites like lasagna, enchiladas, chili and tacos. Simply swap out the meat in favor of beans, tofu, tempeh or faux meat products,

PLANT-BASED RESOURCES

Documentary Films championing plant-based diets

n PlantPure Nation

n Forks Over Knives

n Eating You Alive

n What the Health

Websites offering tips, recipes and advice for plant-prominent menus

n HappyHerbivore.com

n ForksOverKnives.com

n NoraCooks.com

n CleanFoodDirtyGirl.com

Cookbooks that make whole, plant-based foods shine

n Oh She Glows Every Day, by Angela Lindon

n The Happy Herbivore Cookbook, by Lindsay S. Nixon

n The PlantPure Nation Cookbook, by Kim Campbell

n The China Study Cookbook, by LeAnne Campbell

Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

While acute inflammation is a protective bodily response to heal infections and repair tissues, metabolic inflammation—or metaflammation—refers to chronic, systemic inflammation.

According to a 2020 study published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, metabolic inflammation is associated with increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and cardiovascular disease.

Numerous studies have explored the inflammatory and anti-inflammatory effects of foods. According to a 2021 article in Harvard Health Publishing, the following foods cause inflammation: refined carbohydrates like white bread; fried foods like french fries; sodas and other sugary drinks; red meat; processed meat, including hot dogs, sausage and cold cuts; and margarine, shortening and lard. Conversely, the best anti-inflammatory foods are tomatoes; olive oil; leafy, green vegetables such as spinach, kale and collards; nuts like almonds, walnuts, pistachios and pecans; and fruit such as apples, strawberries, blueberries, cherries and oranges. Omega-3 fatty acid-rich fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines are also recommended for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Environmental Sustainability

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, total greenhouse gas emissions from global livestock represents 14.5 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. Cattle raised for both beef and milk are the animal species responsible for the most emissions, which include methane and represent about 65 percent of the livestock sector’s emissions.

Industrially produced meat is also a leading contributor of global deforestation and habitat loss as large swaths of the Amazon and other land masses are cleared for cattle ranching and to produce animal feed.

According to a new model developed by California scientists and published in the journal PLOS Climate, a global phase-out of animal agriculture and a shift to plant-based diets over the next 15 years would have the same effect as a 68 percent reduction of carbon dioxide emissions through the end of 2100, thereby boosting humanity’s chances of avoiding the projected devastation of climate change. Such benefits would result from a decline in the methane and nitrous oxide emissions associated with industrialized meat production, coupled with a recovery of natural ecosystems as fewer forests and land masses are cleared for animal feed production.

Improved Mental and Emotional Health

Sarah Thomsen Ferreira, an integrative registered dietician and manager of clinical nutrition at the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine (CCCFM), notes, “Certain foods and nutrients help your brain to make chemicals that can impact your mood, attention and focus, while other foods can zap your energy.” The CCCFM recommends a diet that combines complex carbohydrates with lean proteins and colorful produce. While lean proteins may include white-fleshed fish and white-meat poultry, healthy, plant-based, lean proteins are also found in beans, peas, lentils and tofu.

Diet can support emotional well-being and perhaps even help ward off depression and anxiety. A 2017 clinical trial explored how a plant-based diet, daily exercise and mindfulness techniques would affect 500 adult men and women diagnosed with moderate to severe depression and anxiety. After 12 weeks, participants reported improvements in depression and anxiety, according to the study abstract published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice

Eating a plant-based diet makes sense on many levels. Make the switch.

Kiki Powers is a health writer, blogger and national speaker specializing in plant-based nutrition and healthy green living. Learn more at RawKiki.com.

Loving Our Kidneys

EDIBLE ALLIES, INTEGRATIVE TREATMENTS AND LIFESTYLE TIPS

by Marlaina Donato

Our kidneys are prodigious multitaskers. Through the production of urine, they filter toxins, excrete waste and balance bodily fluids. They also produce certain hormones that regulate blood pressure and aid in other vital functions. While the kidneys don’t usually fail all at once, their effectiveness can deteriorate slowly over years, and chronic kidney disease (CKD) is most often the result of uncontrolled diabetes or high blood pressure.

Simple blood and urine tests help

physicians evaluate kidney function and diagnose CKD, which is divided into five stages. The first three stages are mild or moderate, and can respond well to lifestyle modifications and alternative interventions, while the more severe, later stages become increasingly more complex to treat and may require dialysis to mechanically perform the kidneys’ functions. In end-stage CKD, many patients are relegated to dialysis treatments several times a month to prevent the accumulation of deadly toxins, while many wait and hope for a life-saving transplant.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that one in seven adults are diagnosed annually. Most of these 37 million Americans do not feel ill or notice symptoms until they are in advanced stages of the disease, which is why people with diabetes and high blood pressure should be tested regularly and take steps to protect their kidneys. Managing CKD requires a multilevel approach, including lifestyle and diet changes, use of prescribed medications, avoidance of kidney-harming toxins like alcohol and cigarettes, and close supervision by a doctor that specializes in kidney disease (nephrologist) to ensure that other prescribed medications and over-thecounter or herbal treatments are safe.

Integrative and holistic approaches may be of help for those in earlier stages of kidney disease or for those striving to prevent it. “I have been really blessed to be connected with a global team of people who, like myself and everyone I work with, understand that kidney disease is treatable, and the recovery of kidney function is actually possible,” says Fiona Chin, an Australia-based naturopath and co-founder of KidneyCoach.com. Chin adds that she and her colleagues have witnessed significant patient improvement from tailored diet and lifestyle regimens during and after diagnosis, especially when root causes are addressed.

The Kidney-Friendly Kitchen

Promising research published last year in Frontiers of Pharmacology shows that combining Western treatments and Traditional Chinese Medicine can have a positive impact on even late-stage renal failure. Isaac Eliaz, M.D., an integrative medical doctor and founder of Amitabha Medical Clinic, in Santa Rosa, California, says, “Preventing and reducing chronic inflammation is a critical aspect of minimizing CKD risk. An anti-inflammatory diet, moderate exercise program and attention to stress reduction all work to decrease the pro-inflammatory milieu.” He also highlights the importance of protecting and boosting beneficial gut bacteria, which can be addressed with supplements or prebiotic foods like garlic, leeks, onions and jicama.

Piling whole, plant-plentiful goodness onto our plates and embracing an alkaline diet are key measures in the prevention of CKD by lowering the risk for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Mayo Clinic offers renal-supportive recipes with fruits, vegetables and grains like quinoa. It also recommends avoiding many packaged and processed foods that have phosphorus added to prolong shelf life and enhance taste, such as convenience foods, sodas and sports drinks, flavor-enhanced meats and processed cheeses.

Jarrod Cooper, ND, founder of Advanced Functional Medicine, underscores the importance of nixing pro-inflammatory foods such as sugars, refined carbohydrates, excessive red meat, trans and saturated fats, caffeine and alcohol. Alcohol negatively impacts liver function, and over time reduces

blood flow to the kidneys, leading to CKD, he says. That extra glass of wine can also crank up blood pressure, a surefire path to renal compromise.

Kidney-loving fruits, according to Cleveland Urology Associates, include pineapple, cranberries, red grapes and apples, all of which pack an anti-inflammatory punch.

Sodium: Friend or Foe?

Chin notes that although salt is essential for nerve and muscle function, a balancing of fluids in the blood and healthy blood pressure, not all salt is beneficial. “Salt is a healthy thing to have in your diet in moderation and in the right form,” she asserts. “Table salt is manufactured salt that is stripped of its natural minerals. During salt processing, the balance of sodium to other valuable minerals is lost. Most salt companies also add anti-caking agents that contain aluminum.” Chin recommends good-quality Himalayan salt or sea salt that also contains traces of other natural minerals.

Various types of seaweeds, like dulce, nori and kombu, are natural sources of sodium that are safe for people that do not have kidney disease. They offer significant benefits for inflammation reduction, blood sugar balance and heart health, including lower blood pressure. Sea vegetables have also been shown to help reduce the risk of kidney stones by inhibiting the formation of calcium oxalate

Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and host of multimedia art exhibits intended for healing the community. Connect at Wildflower Lady. com.

CILANTRO LIME CAULIFLOWER RICE

YIELD: 6 SERVINGS

1 head cauliflower, chopped (or 6 cups)

1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

2 garlic cloves

1/4 tsp pepper

1/4 tsp salt

3 Tbsp fresh lime juice

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Rinse the cauliflower and pat dry. Chop into florets, then pulse in a food processor or blender. Alternatively, the cauliflower can be

left whole and grated with a box grater.

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic for a few minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Increase heat to medium high and add cauliflower. Sauté about 5 minutes.

Transfer to a bowl and toss with salt, pepper, lime juice and cilantro.

Excerpted from Multiple Sclerosis Diet Plan and Cookbook. Copyright © 2019 Noelle Citarella. Used with permission from Rockridge Press, Emeryville, CA. All rights reserved.

FRUITARIAN MANGO RAVIOLI

YIELD: 6 SERVINGS

2 mangos

6 strawberries

6 fresh figs

With a potato peeler, peel the mango to expose the fruit. Then slice into thin slices with a peeler or Mandarin. Reserve half of one mango.

Cut the strawberries and figs into small pieces and place on the mango pieces. Fold the mango pieces over to create a fruit filled pocket.

In a high speed blender, blend the reserved mango for a dipping sauce or pour it over the fruit filled “ravioli”.

FRUITARIAN STYLE BERRY PIE

YIELD: 8

1 fresh banana

1 cup of frozen blueberries

maple syrup to taste

1/2 cup fresh blackberries, blueberries, strawberries and grapes.

In a high speed blender or food processor, blend the banana and blueberries, add a little maple syrup for added sweetness, if desired.

Scoop into a freezer-safe bowl and freeze for 4 hours.

Top with fresh fruit: blackberries, blueberries, strawberries and grapes.

Recipes submitted by Raw Chef Renee owner of The Traveling Carrot food truck, Houston’s only fully raw vegan establishment. thetravelingcarrot.com

SWEET LULLABY BETTER SLEEP FOR CHILDREN

by Marlaina Donato and Kirby Baldwin

Sleep is essential for both survival and the ability to thrive, yet as children’s schedules get busier and they spend more time in front of screens, their average sleep time often decreases. While the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that kids between the ages of 6 and 12 get nine to 12 hours of sleep per night for optimal health, they’re regularly getting less, and about 15 to 25 percent of youngsters and adolescents have trouble falling and staying asleep.

In a recent study published in The Lancet, researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine found that children that get less than nine hours of sleep per night have notable differences in areas of the brain that influence memory, intelligence and well-being compared to those that sleep more than nine hours. According to researchers, such insufficiencies in early adolescence can lead to long-lasting neurocognitive consequences.

Why Kids Aren’t Sleeping

Anna Esparham, M.D., FAAP, an integrative medical expert with the American Academy of Pediatrics, recommends that parents look for clues as to why their children can’t sleep, including stress, increased screen time and less physical activity. However, there may be other underlying issues.

A lesser-known culprit that may contribute to a child’s compromised sleep is impaired mouth syndrome (IMS), a term coined by dentist Felix Liao, a certified airway-centered mouth doctor and past-president of the International Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine. “Most people, including many dentists, don’t realize the influence that the mouth has on the body,” he says. “The mouth is the portal to the inside. With impaired mouth syndrome, the child can still chew, smile and talk, but the body’s health can be compromised.”

While birth trauma, concussion and viruses can precipitate mouth breathing, and chronic allergies often exacerbate matters, immature swallowing can set off

a cascade of problems. The mouth is a critical infrastructure for proper breathing, circulation, digestion, energy and sleep. IMS occurs when jaw development is insufficient, thereby giving rise to numerous difficulties, such as a narrower airway, which can cause hypoxia, or low levels of oxygen. Liao notes that poor sleep quality can also lead to learning and behavioral problems.

“Breastfeeding stimulates bone growth and jaw development through the tongue’s instinctive action and ideally enables a child to have a mature swallow by age 2,” says Amy Dayries-Ling, DMD, FAIHM, a national spokesperson for the American Dental Association. In her book Solve Your Sleep: Get to the Core of Your Snore for Better Health, Dayries-Ling connects the dots between the vital role of the tongue during breastfeeding, balanced stimulation from the vagus nerve and beneficial spaces between milk teeth for a well-developed dental arch.

Correcting Structural Problems

From a holistic perspective, improperly working muscles of the tongue, throat and face or a compromised jawbone can foster a predisposition to a number of seemingly unrelated conditions, including dental problems, teeth grinding, asthma, bedwetting, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, poor growth, swollen tonsils and pediatric obstructive sleep apnea. Dayries-Ling recommends that parents seek out a myofunctional therapist that can help retrain muscles and free up the airway. Building an integrative team is vital, including a dentist trained to address structural issues.

Local Voices

Dr. Ifetayo Griffith, a local holistic dentist says that the concept of impaired mouth syndrome has been in the back of her mind ever since she entered dentistry but didn’t know how to put it into words. Members of her family had sleep apnea and although a CPAP machine was wonderful, it only addressed the symptoms.

She was introduced to Dr. Liao when he was speaking in Houston and “Fireworks went off! This is it! This incorporates everything and gets at the root cause.”

She went on to complete Dr. Liao’s course and become a certified airway mouth doctor. Griffith recommends that parents seek out an airway-centered mouth doctor or dentist particularly if the child grinds their teeth or snores. If we can identify early on in the younger population things that will cause problems later on we can help them avoid those things that many in the older population experience. “The mouth is the gateway to the rest of the body. If the mouth is healthy, the rest of the body can be healthy,” she explains.

Dr. Anne Chee is a local dentist who specializes in airway issues. She had an underdeveloped mid-face since childhood but did not understand possible problems it might cause until her teeth grinding actually broke a tooth. Then she realized that there was more to it than just wearing a mouth guard. She began investigating it and learned that also her sleep quality was not the best.

Empower Natural Health By Mouth

“The Mouth Is To Humans What Roots Are To Plants”

Your Pain, Fatigue & Chronic Illness May Be Rooted in:

1. Crowded Teeth & Deficient Jaws

2. Pinched Airway

3. Clicking/Popping Jaw Joints

4. Teeth Grinding

5. Tongue-Tie & Abnormal Swallowing

6. Weak Chin, Double Chin

7. Sunken Mid-Face, Flat Cheekbones

8. Teeth Pulled & Spaces Closed For Braces.

Impaired Mouth Symptoms Short List:

1. Aches & Pains in Head, Jaws, Neck Shoulders & Back

2. Fatique, Brain Fog, Lack of Motivation

3. Post-Nasal Drip & Frequent Colds & Flue

4. Teeth Grinding & Jaw Joint Troubles

5. Snoring, Sleep Apnea, CPAP Intolerance

6. Anxiety, Depression, Irritability/Hostility

7. “Empty Tank” From Adrenal Fatique, PMS/ED

8. Food Cravings; Caffeine, Sugar, Chocolate, Energy Drinks

“Get your airway back, get your sleep back, get your life back” – Angela, patient “Impaired Mouth Diagnosis should have been the first course in dental school.”

– Dr. J. Yelle, Monument, CO

An AMD’s Mission: To help you turn back illness and turn on wellness naturally through our evidence-based impaired Mouth diagnosis and Holistic Mouth solutions HolisticMouthSolutions.com @6_foot_tiger

Join free Webinar to learn more. s

Dr. Felix Liao, DDS

As a dentist, she uses intake forms that ask questions about things that may not seem to relate to dentistry but can identify possible mouth formation and airway issues, questions like whether the child is often sleepy or inattentive. In the exam, she looks for things like whether there is enough room for the baby teeth. Baby teeth should be straight and there should be some spacing between them. If there is not, it points to a narrow palate. “The roof of the mouth is really the floor of the nose so if you have an underdeveloped mid-face, you will have various respiratory problems”, she says.

Chee says, “Children should have dental checkups that go beyond just the teeth. If the treatment is begun early, we can prevent a host of problems later on. The earlier the better.”

Dr. Teresa Scott is a local dentist practicing in Spring who was trained by Dr. Felix Liao to identify and treat airway issues which are endemic. What she looks for in an exam are the visible signs of wear that would be caused by grinding and the crowding of the baby teeth, and whether the child is tongue tied or breathing mainly through their mouth. She says that all these things point to the development of a high vaulted palate

that is tall and narrow so that there is not room for the teeth and more importantly not room for the tongue.

Scott tells parents, “The best thing they can do is to observe their child and notice if they are breathing through their mouth. Do they walk around with their mouth open all the time or are they sleeping with their mouth open.” She says that this indicates an airway problem that should be addressed before the permanent teeth come in and before it causes other more serious problems. Age three is not too young.

Life seems to be a much brighter place after a good night’s sleep, and kids are our future. Digging deeper for their optimum, long-term well-being is a vital investment.

Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and host of multimedia art exhibits intended for healing the community. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.

Kirby Baldwin is an editor and writer for KnoWEwell, the Regenerative Whole Health Hub and parent company of Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp.

Local Resources

Griffith Dental Associates

Dr. Ifetayo Griffith, DDS

1213 Herman Dr. Suite 840

Houston, TX 77004

713-523-1666

bestdentistever.com

Holistic Dental Associates

Dr. Teresa Scott, DDS

6334 Fm 2920 Rd Ste 250

Spring, TX 77379

281-655-9175

holisticdentalassociates.com

Houston Biological Dentist

Dr. Marilyn K. Jones, DDS

713-785-7767

800 Bering Dr Ste 204

Houston, TX 77057

houstonbiologicaldentist.com

Westchase Dentist

Dr. Annee Chee

10260 Westheimer Rd 500

Houston, TX 77042

713-789-9800

westchasedentist.com

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calendar of events MARCH 2023

Send your event information to mike@naturalawakenings-houston.com

SUNDAY MARCH 5th

Greening Finances for Faith Communities & People of Faith. 3 p.m online. Want to align your finances, or those of your faith community or other faith-based organization, with the values of your faith - but not sure how to go about it? Register on www. eventbrite.com at: https://www.eventbrite. com/e/greening-finances-for-faith-communities-people-of-faith-tickets-520812372827. Contact Lisa Brenskelle at gcs.lrc@gmail. com for more information.

WEDNESDAY MARCH 8TH

Yin Yoga + Essential Oils. 9:00-10:00 am. Connect with essential oils throughout this 60 minute yin yoga practice to support and nurture the softness within. Investment: $25, or included in your membership. unionstudio.yoga

SATURDAY MARCH 18th

Myofascial Release + Yoga Nidra. 4:005:30 pm This workshop is a blend of mind + body favorites! Even a few minutes of fascial-release work can have a profound effect on your practice and well-being. We’ll end with a soothing Yoga Nidra practice designed to help you relax deeply. Props required: 2 tennis or Tune-up balls, 2 blocks and a sock, a blanket or other items for Yoga Nidra comfort. Investment: $25. unionstudio.

yoga

MONDAY MARCH 20th

Phoenix School of Massage New Semester Starts. Learn holistic health and massage at the longest running school in Texas.Full certification program for state license thru TDLR. Part time classes 4 days each week. 2 Days webinar and 2 days on campus. Contact Jessica at Phoenix School of Massage. 713-974-5976

FRIDAY MARCH 24rd -

SUNDAY MARCH 26th

Bayou City Art Festival 10 am-6 pm. One of the top outdoor art festivals in the nation, the Bayou City Art Festival, held from 10 a.m. 6 p.m., March 24 to 26 in Memorial Park, will showcase the works of 280 artists in 19 different categories to benefit local nonprofits. Patrons can meet the artists and purchase one-of-a-kind art, prints, jewelry, sculptures, functional art and more at all price levels. This year’s featured artist is Dewey James, a mixed media artist from Minneapolis. S. Picnic Loop Lane, Houston. Online pre-purchased tickets at BayouCityArtFestival.com

FRIDAY MARCH 24th

Crystal Bowl Sound Bath + Yoga Nidra. 6:15-7:20 pm. Experience deep relaxation with the sounds and frequencies of quartz crystal singing bowls. Jessica will guide you through a full body scan/yoga nidra meditation to a state of conscious sleep. Investment: $25. unionstudio.yoga

SATURDAY MARCH 25th

Yoga on the Lawn + Huemn Ice Bath. 10:00-11:00 am. Hosted by Union Studio Yoga and Huemn. Join Union Studio for a complimentary 60 minute all levels outdoor yoga class on the Yoga Lawn at the M-K-T every Saturday at 10:00 AM, weather permitting. Huemn will be on site on 3/25 to offer an ice bath cryotherapy experience following yoga. Unionstudio.yoga or behuemn. com

SATURDAY MARCH 25th

What is Buddhism-for teens 11:00 am -12:30 pm Online. A program for teens curious about Buddha’s story, lessons, and principals.We will discuss the history of Buddhism, the effects of meditation on the brain and mental health, and we will practice 3 meditation techniques you can use to calm the body and mind. dawnmountain.org/buddhateens

SATURDAY MARCH 26th

Guided Prayer Walk in the Park. 10 a.m. Connect with God through creation at Hermann Park in this guided prayer walk in the park, using this beautiful natural setting to stimulate prayer and reflection. At each stop along the walk, there will be a theme, an accompanying Bible verse, and reflection questions for you to ponder. Deepen your Christian spiritual practice with a guided walk in the park as a Christian spiritual discipline! Register on www.eventbrite.com at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/guided-prayerwalk-in-the-park-tickets-530860948387. Contact Lisa Brenskelle at gcs.lrc@gmail. com for more information.

SUNDAY MARCH 26th

Watershed Connections: Land, Water, and People. 6 p.m. central, online. Join Charriss York, Program Director for Green Infrastructure and Stormwater at Texas Community Watershed Partners as she discusses the intersection of land, water, and people along with steps we can take as both individuals and a community to address local water issues. Register at https://

www.eventbrite.com/e/watershed-connections-land-water-and-people-tickets-530691371177. Contact Lisa Brenskelle at gcs.lrc@gmail.com with any questions.

WEDNESDAY MARCH 29th

cxDo the Work! 6:30 – 8:30 pm Online event for everyone beginning or continuing the work of undoing racism, and healing from its pervasive impact in a shame- free environment. Hosted by the Antiracism Working Group of: Houston Zen Center, Dawn Mountain & Austin Zen Center. houstonzen.org/events-calendar/2023/3/29-do-the-work-an-antiracism-activity

FRIDAY MARCH 31st -

SATURDAY APRIL 23rd

My Earth-My Texas. EarthShare Texas is sponsoring an Earth Month sustainability challenge, supporting the missions and envirionmentsal work of more than 30 nonprofit members. Open to individuals, groups and businesses, Participants may complete sustainability challenges at home, school, work, community gardens or local parks. Contestants have the opportunity to show off their green pride by completing sustainability activites that benefit them, their community, workplace and/or state. Each challenge completed earns the participant points that could win them cool, eco-prizes. For more information, visit Tinyurl.com/MyEarth-MyTexas or email estx@earthshare-texas.org.

PLAN AHEAD

SATURDAY APRIL 23rd

Earth Day-Houston Citizen’ Environmental Coalition is pleased to partner with Discovery Green Conservancy to host Earth Day Houston and mobilize actions across the globe. Keep an eye out for more information about Earth Day Houston 2023 and we’ll see you in April.

Send your calendar listings to mike@ naturalawakenings-houston.com

monday

Free Outdoor Zumba 6:30 pm. Join the party and sweat with Tiny Fitness to rhythms from around the world! This hour-long Zumba fitness class will have you grooving, shaking, and toning to salsa, hip hop, samba, and bhangra beats - and so many more. Open to all fitness levels and recommended for ages 16+ Levy Park, 3801 Eastside, Houston 77098. tinyfitnesshouston.com

IGNITE! Sessions. 10am-5pm. Find your purpose with igniter/artist/intuitive guide Sarah Gish in 30- or 60-minute sessions ($50 or $100). You’ll leave with a personal mantra that reinforces what the heart-centered connection uncovered. Call for appointment: 713.993.0550. Body Mind & Soul. 7951 Katy Freeway.

tuesday

JANUARY 10th-FEBRUARY 14th

Climate Solutions 101 6 pm. Online. Think there is no solution to climate change? Nothing could be farther from the truth. Climate Solutions 101 is the world’s first major educational effort focused solely on climate solutions. Register for this course on www.eventbrite.com at: https://www. eventbrite.com/e/climate-solutions-101-tickets-468915688447. Contact Lisa Brenskelle at gcs.lrc@gmail.com for more information.

TUESDAYS, February 21st – May 9th

Living the Change Weekly Discussion Group 6 p.m. central, online. Join us in accepting the Walk on Earth Gently invitation and committing to a sustainable lifestyle, via a weekly online discussion group. Can’t make it every week? Join us as you are able. Are you ready to commit to a more sustainable lifestyle? Then join us on this journey to Living the Change by registering on www.eventbrite.com at: https://www. eventbrite.com/e/living-the-change-weeklydiscussion-group-tickets-504063065197. For more information, please contact Lisa Brenskelle at gcs.lrc@gmail.com.

wednesday

Blissful Quests® with Doyle Ward-The Pocast. 1:00pm.Are you looking for answers? Have you ever had a “hunch” or a “gut feeling” that came true? Are you wondering if you are intuitive? Maybe the real question to explore is not IF you are intuitive, but HOW you are intuitive. Doyle Ward is an experienced intuitive medium, teacher, grief recovery specialist, and life coach. Call in during the show at: 1-760-456-7277, access on-demand episodes or listen live! blissfulquests.com/podcast

saturday

Reiki Circle 11:00 am. Reiki Holy Fire Experience healing circle, held on 2nd Saturday of every month. A chosen issue for healing will be the focus of each circle. Everyone is welcome.Location: 9039 Katy Freeway, building 500, suite 504, Houston, TX 77024. Fee: Love offering. Contact: April 713-922-3474. Website: dharmareikiacupuncture.com

sunday

Free Outdoor Zumba 9am. Join the party and sweat with Tiny Fitness to rhythms from around the world! This hour-long Zumba fitness class will have you grooving, shaking, and toning to salsa, hip hop, samba, and bhangra beats - and so many more. Open to all fitness levels and recommended for ages 16+ Levy Park, 3801 Eastside, Houston 77098. tinyfitnesshouston.com

Dawn Mountain Free Weekly Meditation from 11:00 am to 12:00 noon Online. Led by senior members of the Dawn Mountain sangha (community), this meditation offers a chance to take a mindful pause from your busy life, enjoy serenity and fellowship, and learn a bit more about Buddhist practice at Dawn Mountain. https://www.dawnmountain.org/upcoming-live-webcasts-2/

Family Dentistry

Invisalign

Professional Whitening

Dental Emergencies

Checkup & Cleaning

Biocompatible Fillings

Comfort Dentistry

Airway Therapy

Biological Extractions

Mouth & Sports Guard

Meridian Energy

Invisalign

Veneers

Children’s Dentistry

Safe Mercury Removal

Ozone Therapy

Ceramic Implants

BiocompatibleTest

Biological Perio & Endo Flouride Free

healthy living guide

ACUPUNCTURE

DHARMA REIKI & ACUPUNCTURE

9039 Katy Freeway, Suite 504 Houston, Texas 77024 (713) 922-3474

www.dharmareikiacupuncture.com

We are a Traditional Chinese Medicine and Reiki clinic, offering alternative healing services since 2008.

• Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine

• Reiki energy healing, individual sessions and classes

• Internal medicine, pain management

• Women’s health, pre-post natal, menopause

• Emotional, trauma healing

• Chakra clearing and balancing

• Stress, anxiety, mood disorders

• Hormone, energy, sleep imbalance

• Diabetes, cholesterol, thyroid, gastrointestinal, and more…

FREE CONSULTATION

Usui/Holy Fire® III Reiki Practitioner Training is offered monthly. Dates & details on website

Reiki Healing Circle on 2nd Saturday of every month. See Calendar of Events.

BATH PRODUCTS

CONNIE’S BATH SHACK

211 Midway St, Bldg E Spring, TX 77373 (281) 288-9595 conniesbathshack.com

A quaint shop in the heart of historic Old Town Spring Texas, offering unique handmade bath and body products and lots of rubber ducks. Small Batch Handmade soaps by Connie. Wonderful lather and amazing Scents. Enjoy the aromatherapy of a bath in your shower with Shower Steamers. Put little bit of heaven for your bath with Fizzies. We also have bath salts, scrubs, shampoos, lotions, creams, shaving creams & soaps, and batch accessories of all kinds. Shop conveniently on-line or drop by our store.

BIOLOGICAL DENTISTRY

ADORE DENTISTRY

540 W 19 Street Houston, TX 77008

832-930-7844

adore-dentistry.com

Re-designing dentistry in Houston Heights by creating a personalized, comfortable, and fun experience to deliver excellent patient satisfaction. From preventative dentistry to smile makeovers, our team of dental professionals have the skill-sets to provide remarkable quality and compassionate care to give you that smile you’ve always wanted. Services include cosmetic, preventative, restorative, and a full range of family dentistry services. Lead by Drs. Emilyann Pham and Ann Blair our team provides compassionate human-centered patient care. Visit our website for more information or to book an appointment. Insurance accepted. See Ad on page 26.

MARILYN K. JONES, DDS

Houston Dental Health Center

800 Bering Dr. Houston, TX 77057

713-497-1355

houstonbiologicaldentist.com

Natural Dentistry supports the body and the mind by finding the cause of dental problems. The dental examination includes noticing systemic and habitual influences. If you have dental issues or currently have silver amalgam fillings, call me today to schedule an appointment.

See ad on page 22.

SMOKE ENVY/BETTER DAYS CBD

2524 Yale Street, #2, Houston, TX 77008

832-744-9944

18123 Egret Bay Blvd, Houston, TX, 77053 smokenvy.com/

CBD vape pens, gummies, tintures, flower,oils, apparel and accessories. We stock Better Days CBD products.

HYDROSHACK HYDROPONICS

1138 W 20th Street, Houston, TX 77008

Open 7 days a week

713-292-1921

Hydroshack.com

Hydroshack proudly carries some of the most beautiful high-CBD hemp flower and Delta 8 products in Houston! We also sell the highest quality 1.5 gram pre-rolls packed with actual bud and never trim. Our bud-tenders will be more than happy to let you experience true legal Hemp Flower from our open sample jars.While you are in check out our complete line of hydroponic growing products. See Ad page 23.

COACHING

BLISSFUL QUESTS

Positive change starts now!

832-628-4113

blissfulquests.com

Are you looking for answers? Have you ever had a “hunch” or a “gut feeling” that came true? Are you wondering if you are intuitive? Doyle Ward is an experienced intuitive, teacher, grief recovery specialist, and life coach. Tune in to his weekly PodCast, Wednesdays at 1 pm on inflowradio.com

See ad on page 10.

COLONICS

JOYCE LONG’S WELLNESS INSTITUTE

1308 James Street

Rosenberg, TX 77471 281-232-7336

joycelongwellness.com

Established 1989. Call to schedule any of the following services: massage therapies, lymphatic drainage massage and facials, reflexology, infra-red sauna, ion cleanse foot or hand baths, Chinese cupping or colon hydrotherapy (prescriptions only- yours or ours). By appointment only. Be well-Stay well. CALL TODAY!

URBAN COLONICS

Barbara Ellis, Retired RN

5042 Briscoe St.

Houston, TX.77033

713-738-8199

urbancolonics.com

Serving Houston and the surrounding area since 1979. We now offer the first and ONLY mobile colonic service in Houston. We continue to irrigate with State Of The Art Equipment (closed colonic systems cleared by the FDA). We utilize totally disposable colonic set-ups and sterile water. A prescription is required for this procedure. Our Medical Director at a different location will make an assessment and write a prescription for OUR clients only. Visit our website to learn more details. Please call us to schedule an appointment.

See ad page 6.

URBAN COLONICS-MOBILE

Treresa Hutt

5042 Briscoe St. Houston, TX.77033

713-738-8199

urbancolonics.com

We now offer the first and ONLY mobile colonic service in Houston. If you are unable to leave your home or prefer to take your colon hydrotherapy in privacy and convenience of your home, we will come to you. We continue to irrigate with State Of The Art Equipment (closed colonic systems cleared by the FDA). We utilize totally disposable colonic set-ups and sterile water. A prescription is required for this procedure. Our Medical Director at a different location will make an assessment and write a prescription for OUR clients only. Visit our website to learn more details. Please call us to schedule an appointment.

See ad page 8.

OILS.EARTH

Heart-Centered Wellness for every stage of your life. Houston, Texas oils.earth

We focus on keeping nature’s wisdom and power at the heart of all our products.We strongly believe in the wisdom of plants and their ability to support us in harmonizing our state. All our creations are inspired by nature using therapeutic certified essential oils, and infused and empowered by gemstones. We want to bring forth solutions that are 100% natural, simple, and efficient. Solutions that align with our nature and thus create coherace in every stage of our life. Handcrafted in Houston, TX. Purchase online or scan the QR code for a map to the local stores where you can find our products. Use NATURAL10 for 10% off entire online order. Local pick up, custom blends, workshops and consultations available.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

ERIN THOLE, CNHP ErinThole.com

Thole.erin@gmail.com

Get to the Root Cause of your Health Conditions. Erin has been working in the health and nutrition field for over 11 years specializing and working extensively with those suffering from: autoimmune, digestive, hormonal and inflammatory disorders. She works with each client’s unique biochemistry to determine what dietary, supplementation and lifestyle changes will work best for them as an individual. There is NO one-size-fitsall program. All appointments are conducted via phone! This makes it very easy and convenient to receive care from any location. If you want to reach your true health potential, Email Erin today to schedule your FREE 45 minute initial phone consultation. Hours until 5 pm Fridays.

CLAUDIA AUTRY, HYPNOTIST (by appointment only)

281-849-4610

ca@claudiaautry.com

claudiaautry.com

Want to stop smoking or lose weight? Looking for ways to relax, find balance and increase the joy in your life? Hypnosis can help you. Call SOON to book your appointment. Let’s work together to create the life you want!

HEALTHY CHANGES HYPNOSIS

Suzanne Sears, RN, ACCH

9219 Katy Freeway, Ste. 113 Houston, TX 77024 713-562-2864

HealthyChangesHypnosis.com

Our mission is to promote wellness for the wholefamily. We have programs and services for adults, teenagers and children. If you or your child need help coping with anxiety/fear/stress, changing habits, pain management,sleep problems or weight management and more, we can help. Call today to schedule a conultation.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE

PHOENIX RISING INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE

3100 Richmond Ave Houston, TX 77098 713-806-9927

phoenixrisingacu.com

We offer comprehensive and customized therapeutic plans that address chronic illness & autoimmune disease for patients seeking support both in-person and virtually. Phoenix Rising Integrative Medicine takes an integrative approach to addressing chronic illness and autoimmune by combining ancient healing tools of Traditional Chinese Medicine with modern functional medicine, including evidence-based lab testing, clinical nutrition, lifestyle modifications, herbal medicine and acupuncture protocols that are customized for each patient. We also work with patients suffering from environmental and food allergies, reproductive and fertility issues, breast implant illness, and emotional health issues. Visit our website for more information or to book an appointment.

Food is symbolic of love when words are inadequate.

– Alan D. Wolfelt

REVIVED IV DRIP SPA

3339 W Lamar St, Houston, TX 77019

855-483-7477 myrevived.com

Welcome to a relaxing way to optimal wellness: IV drip therapy in Houston as you’ve never experienced it before. Each IV formula is loaded with hand-selected ingredients provided by high-quality, accredited local American pharmacies. We provide two ways to bring your body back into wellness: at your home through our first-class concierge service, or while taking some time to rest and rejuvenate in our serene wellness lounge. As the premier IV drip spa in Houston, we take pride in being the top-rated experts in the Houston holistic health and wellness community. Revived provides cutting-edge remedies and innovative services catered towards an optimal you. We look forward to our journey together.

See ad page 4

KREAT DAY BOTANICALS

1973 W Gray, Suite 23 Houston, TX 77019

713-369-0946

KreatDay.com

A BBB Accredited Business

We provide the choicest healthy Botanicals garnered from some of the most exotic corners of the world. Only The BEST! We ensure quality by going to the source, checking our international vendors 1st hand, and using USDA Certified Organic vendors when applicable. We stand by our products and our services! If you are unsatisfied with your order we will return, exchange and or refund your money. We got you covered!

See ads on pages 2, 6, and 11.

LYMPHATIC THERAPY

JOYCE LONG’S WELLNESS INSTITUTE

1308 James Street Rosenberg, TX 77471 281-232-7336

joycelongwellness.com

STAN’S HANDS MASSAGE & WELLNESS

2990 Richmond Avenue, Suite 440

Houston, TX 77098 832-526-6520

stanshandsmassage. com

Are you in pain? Well, you don’t have to live like this. We are here to heal your body and mind through massage and energetic practices. We offer a wide variety of massage modalities designed to fit your needs. We offer both onsite chair and concierge table massage. Call today to book your appointment at 832-5266520. Our mission is to heal your mind and body.

PHOENIX SCHOOL OF MASSAGE

6600 Harwin Drive Houston, TX 77036 713-974-0360

massageschoolhtx.com

AUSTIN ORGANIC VILLAGE

Online sales only.

833-AUSTIN-1 austinorganicvillage.online

Focused on helping others achieve greater balance in life, our high-quality kratom products combine the best in variety with affordability. Sourced directly from top-rated kratom vendors that share our vision of helping others, Austin Organic Village is proud to offer a diverse line of kratom products for sale online. We believe that nature holds the key to true wellness, and offer our high-quality kratom products in the hopes of improving the health of others, the natural way. We ship nationwide and check out our prices and our quality. Call or visit our website for more information or to place an order. See ad page 7.

Health conditions can interrupt the normal flow of lymph, causing lymph fluid to build up in a particular area of the body, often in the arms or legs where it can and may cause blockages. Lymphatic therapy can reduce swelling and improve circulation throughout the lymphatic system. By appointment only. Be well – Stay well. CALL TODAY!

Learn massage and holistic health. Train for a career you will love. New Program: Online classes combined with on campus classes!

Open your own practice. Find employment at Luxury Spas, Fitness Centers & Rehab Clinics. Finish in as little as 5 ½ months. Join one of the fastest growing Health Care Professions. Visit our website or call today for more information or to schedule a tour of our school.

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Despite everything, I believe that people are really good at heart.

~Anne Frank

REVERSING MEDICAL DISEASE CLINIC

Dr. Mary A. Washington, FACP 2525 N. Loop West, Suite 600 Houston, TX 77008

832-306-3941

marywashingtonmd.com

Are you overweight or obese? Do you suffer from diabetes or have high blood pressure? Are you ready to take back control of your health? Dr. Mary A. Washington is Houston’s first plant-based kidney doctor and has over two decades of experience as a Nephrologist. Let her design a diet and exercise plan customized just for you. Dr. Washington doesn’t just tell you, but she shows you and motivates you to make the changes you need. Visit her website TODAY for more information about her programs and events or to schedule your first appointment.

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MEDITATION

DAWN MOUNTAIN CENTER

FOR

TIBETAN BUDDHISM

Online only at this time. 713-630-0354

dawnmountain.org

The mission of Dawn Mountain is to further the spiritual growth of our diverse community as a living bridge between traditional Tibetan Buddhist teachings and curious people everywhere. Dawn Mountain offers a number of free online services including: Weekly Meditation from 11:00 am to 12:00 noon each Sunday, “First Sunday” teachings on the first Sunday of each month at 10:30 am, and monthly “Dharma Conversations” via Zoom on the first Sunday of each month at 12:00 noon. All sessions are archived on their YouTube channel. Please visit our website for more information and consider taking advantage of our many offerings.

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METAPHYSICAL SHOPS

ODYSSEY EMPORIUM

123 Midway St, Bldg C Spring, Texas 77373 888-492-3584

odysseyemporium.com

We are a retail shop and also have an online store. We can also custom-make many of our product lines. Our products include a range of metaphysical items, clothing, books, stones, jewelry, candles, soaps, teas, incenses, herbs, blades, and accessories for spiritual work.

We also have some unique renaissance festival and gothic clothing and accessories. Check out our gaming and sci-fi themed products as well. We offer daily in-house Tarot reading and conduct private Old Town Spring Ghost tours. Open 7 days a week.

Indigo Moons

1900 Blalock Rd Ste P Houston, TX 77080 281-974-1043

indigomoons.net

We serve our customers with knowledge, enthusiasm, generosity, and humor. Come visit us for a wide range of crystals and gems, fossils and specimens, silver and gemstone jewelry, sage and incense, home decor, new and used books, Tarot and oracle decks, and an ever-growing supply of handcrafted products by local artisans. Or stay informed with upcoming classes and events. Start your journey, learn something new, make new friends - it’s all possible here at Indigo Moons.

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NATURAL HORMONES

DR. FISHER ROAD 2 WELLNESS

Dr. LaTronica Fisher, DNP, APRN-BC

4544 Post Oak Place Dr. STE #254 Houston, Texas 77027

DrFisherRoad2Wellness.com 713 520-8188

Services:

nHormone Rejuvenation

nVaginal Dryness

nUrinary Incontinence

nLow Libido

nErectile Dysfution

nLow Stamina

nWeight-Loss

nSexual Dysfunction(men & women)

nHair Restoration

nNatural Face Lift

Call today to schedule a consultation

NATUROPATH

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

HOUSTON HOLISTIC HEALTH CLINIC “Better Health Naturally”

Dr. Gracie G. Chukwu, ND, CTN 6401 Southwest Freeway, Suite 250 Houston, TX 77074 713-781-9991

HoustonHolisticHealthClinic.com

Dr. Gracie Chukwu is a Doctor of Naturopathy and a Certified Nutrition Counselor. She has been assisting people for over five years with holistic medicine, diet, nutrition and supplement support to enhance her client’s health and overall well-being. If you are suffering and cannot find relief, give Dr. Gracie a call.

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ORGANIC HEALTH & BEAUTY PRODUCTS

ALL THINGS ORGANIC BOUTIQUE

By Gelcys Basulto

Helping people pursue a more mindful lifestyle.

1923 Ave G Rosenberg, TX 77471 allthingsorganicboutique.com

832-449-2600

Are your health and personal care products putting your health at risk?

Take the short trip to Downtown Rosenberg and visit A Journey To Wellness. All of our products are 100% Organic and made with natural ingredients. (You can also order online and we’ll ship our products to you.) We also offer Health and Wellness coaching. Book a free consultation and let’s get started embracing your new life in health today!

See ad on page 11.

PAIN REMEDY

AUNT ALBERTA’S REMEDY

Homeopathic Pain Relief Cream

973-715-9097 info@AlbertasPainRelief.com albertaspainrelief.com

Need Relief from Arthritis? Try Aunt Alberta’s Remedy to ease muscular aches and joint pain. Her Remedy is a homeopathic pain relief cream that penetrates deep into the skin and muscle tissues. Get beneficial relief from sciatica, fibromyalgia, arthritis, neuralgia, gout, and more. All-natural ingredients! Do you want to feel a real difference from the nagging aches of arthritis? Feel less pain & have more range of motion? Great buy, get a 4oz jar for $15! Visit website for other options.

See ad on page 6.

PERSONAL FITNESS

TINY FITNESS

Tiny changes Big Results 832-730-3048 tinyfitnesshouston.com

Let’s make your life feel amazing! See results fast with personal training...join the Zumba Fitness party, FREE... put yourself to the test in HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training), Kickboxing, or Beginner Bootcamp...or just let it all go in a Recovery Workshop...but whatever you do, start today for an even better tomorrow. Visit our website to sign up for a class or make an appointment for personal training.

THERMOGRAPHY

MEDICAL THERMOGRAPHY CENTER

“Better Health Naturally”

Dr. Gracie G. Chukwu, ND, CTN 6401 Southwest Freeway, Suite 250 Houston, TX 77074 713-781-9991

HoustonHolisticHealthClinic.com

Breast thermography has the ability to warn woman up to 10 years before any other procedure that a cancer may be forming; thus, allowing for prompt and timely treatment. Thermography uses no radiation and poses absolutely NO health risks to the patient.

If you are a woman, over 20 years old and have not had a breast thermograph, call Dr. Gracie TODAY.

See ad on page 7.

VEGAN RESTAURANTS

THE TRAVELING CARROT with Raw Chef Renee’ 3427 N. Fry Road Katy, TX 77449 281-433-5928

thetravelingcarrot.com

Houston’s one and only fully raw, fully vegan eatery. Order online for pickups or deliveries.

Walkup orders accepted.

Food Truck is open Thurs. – Sat. 11:30 am-4:00 pm. Call to confirm that we are open before driving over. Discover the flavors and the health benefits from eating raw vegan today! You will be glad you did.

TRENDY VEGAN

3821 Richmond Ave. Houston, TX 77027 713-621-9488

trendyveganhouston. com

Trendy Vegan offers delicious dining and takeout to Houston, TX. Trendy Vegan is a cornerstone in the Houston community and has been recognized for its outstanding Vegetarian cuisine, excellent service and friendly staff. Our Vegetarian restaurant is known for its modern interpretation of classic dishes and its insistence on only using high quality fresh ingredients.

See ad on page 19.

YOGA

UNION YOGA STUDIO

600 N Shepherd Dr., #449

Houston, TX 77007 800-215-3190

unionstudio.yoga

The studio is dedicated to self-study through movement, breath and meditation, and is committed to upholding the tenets of authenticity, sincerity, inclusion, and integrity without exception. We offer a variety of classes including Vinyasa, The Rest of Yoga (™), Yin, Hatha, and Myofascial Release. Classes are in-person, streaming and on-demand. Owner and lead instructor, Kim Taurins has been practicing yoga since 2001. She is a 500 hour E-RYT level with an emphasis in yoga therapeutics, Daoism, Reiki, and bodywork. Visit our website for more informationor to sign up.