Natural Awakenings Houston May 2021 by Holistic Choice Publishing/Natural Awakenings Houston

E E HEALTHY LIVING FR

HEALTHY

PLANET

SPECIAL EDITION

Women’s Wellness top health concerns and what to do about them

EcoArlene Therapy Clothes Schneider Stylish & Improve Your

Bodywork Workouts & Recovery

Sustainable

You Get What You Tolerate

May 2021 | Houston Metro-Edition | NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

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Natural Awakenings is a family of more than 50 healthy living magazines celebrating 25 years of providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources we all need to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

Contents 9

9 Eco-Cosmetics 11 Sustainable But Stylish

15 ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS HOW TO ADVERTISE

To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 713-927-6540 or email: mike@naturalawakenings-houston.com. Deadline for ads: the 5th of the month.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS

Email articles, news items and ideas to: mike@naturalawakenings-houston.com. Deadline for editorial: the 5th of the month.

15 Integrative Women’s Wellness

19 Bio-identical Hormones for Long-Term Health 21 Stay Fit with Bodywork Therapy 23 Homeopathy to the Rescue

25 You Get What You Tolerate

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS

Email Calendar Events to: Calendar@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com. Deadline for calendar: the 5th of the month. If you have missed the deadline ask about our “Red-Eye Special” and our digital placements.

REGIONAL MARKETS

Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

4 letter from the publisher

22 fitness tip

5 affirming naturally

27 calendar of events

9 eco tip

28 healthy living guide

23 plant-based wellness

NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

letter from publishers

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

Greetings! As I write this letter to you on this beautiful spring morning I am reminded that we are and seem to always be in the best of times and the worst of times. There are so many obstacles and challenges that seem to be continually thrown at us but then there always were. It would be easy only to focus on overcoming all the things that must be overcome and worrying what might happen if we fail to overcome them. What is hard is in the midst of it all is to take moments to celebrate our accomplishments, to appreciate the people who mean the most to us and to enjoy the beauty around us. Cindy and I work very hard to bring you this little magazine each month and we do believe that what we are doing does make a difference and that things will get easier as things open up. This month’s issue focuses on Women’s Wellness but whether you are a woman or a man, there is a lot of good information and advice in these pages. As you read the articles, take time to notice the many businesses who advertise with us. These are the people who make it possible for us to bring our “free” magazine to you. When you contact them, be sure to mention that you saw them in Natural Awakenings. In addition to distributing our magazines at select locations in the Greater Houston Metro, this month we have also mailed out 1,000 copies using the post office’s Every Door Direct Mail service. If you received Natural Awakenings in your mail box this month and enjoyed it, consider subscribing so you don’t miss a single issue in coming months. In closing, we would like to share an early version of Reinhold Niebuhr’s Serenity Prayer and encourage you to use it this month as a prayer or mantra. “Give us courage to change what must be altered, serenity to accept what cannot be helped, and the insight to know the one from the other.” Bright blessings,

MAY 2021

PUBLISHERS

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

Cindy & Mike Hart

EDITOR & DESIGN Mike Hart CREATIVE

Cindy Hart

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Doyle Ward Linda Sechrist John Vastola Arlene Schneider Joseph Nobile Kajsa Nickels Ronica O’Hara SALES & MARKETING Carmen Jules WEBSITE

Mike Hart

446 West 19th Street, Suite 419 Houston, TX 77008 713-927-6540 NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

NATIONAL TEAM

CEO/FOUNDER Sharon Bruckman COO/FRANCHISE SALES Joe Dunne NATIONAL EDITOR Jan Hollingsworth MANAGING EDITOR Linda Sechrist NATIONAL ART DIRECTOR Stephen Blancett ART DIRECTOR Josh Pope FINANCIAL MANAGER Yolanda Shebert FRANCHISE SUPPORT MGR. Heather Gibbs WEBSITE COORDINATOR Rachael Oppy NATIONAL ADVERTISING Lisa Doyle-Mitchell © 2020 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. 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 at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are weresponsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment. © 2021 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. 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 at your business. 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.

Natural Awakenings Magazine is ranked 5th Nationally in CISION’S® 2016 Top 10 Health & Fitness Magazines

Cindy & Mike Hart

HOUSTON EDITION

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Today is a great day. by Doyle Ward You have more than 55,000 thoughts each day. Many are the same thoughts over and over again. Every single one is an affirmation; this also includes everything that you say. By reducing your negative thoughts and words and increasing the positive ones, you can reshape your life. Expecting a better day helps to create a better life. The only place we have to take action or make changes is the present.

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Today is a great day. Are there days when you dread getting up and starting your day? If yes, how do those days work for you? Louise L. Hay said, “How you start your day is how you live your day. How you live your day is how you live your life.” Start creating better days and better lives one thought at a time.

Urban Colonics

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The only thing that you’re guaranteed in life is this moment. Working with positive affirmations can radically change your mindset. Say them and write them repeatedly with the feeling that they are your truth. You have the power to make great changes in yourself and the world. I know this is true because I have made huge changes in my life by changing my thoughts. Doyle Ward, Blissful Quests ® Doyle Ward is a successful life coach, workshop leader and lecturer in the field of personal development. See ad on page 8.

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Nutrients & Additives Grow Mediums & Containers Grow Tents & Lighting 713-292-1921 hydroshack.com Open 7 Days a Week 1138 W 20th Street Houston, TX 77008

Get to the Root Cause of Your Health Conditions Specializing in: • Digestive Issues • Fatigue • Food Cravings • Mood Swings • Hormonal Imbalances • Fertility • Weight Issues • Auto Immune Conditions • Aches & Pains • and More Erin Thole,CNHP Reach Your TRUE Health Potential With: Food Sensitivity, Hormonal, Toxicity, and Nutritional Deficiency Panels Nutritional Programs & More

SPECIAL EDITION

Women’s Wellness top health concerns and what to do about them

EcoArlene Therapy Clothes Schneider Stylish & Improve Your

Bodywork Workouts & Recovery

Sustainable

You Get What You Tolerate

May 2021 | Houston Metro-Edition | NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

Set up your FREE consultation by emailing: thole.erin@gmail.com To learn how Erin has helped others just like you visit: www.ErinThole.com

Natural Awakenings Delivered to your Home Every Month If you are one of the lucky one thousand Houstonians who had this month’s Natural Awakenings magazine delivered to your door or if you just picked up this month’s magazine at one of the over 200 places that distribute it but would like us to deliver it to you every month, there are two ways to do this. You can subscribe to the print edition on our website by going to naturalawakenings-houston.com/print-subscriptions. Follow the links and you can pay using PayPal. The cost is only $29 for 12 months or $50 for 24 months. If you prefer to pay by check or credit card, email us at mike@naturalawakengings-houston.com and put SUBSCRIPTION in the subject line, include your name and phone number and we’ll take your informaton over the phone. If you prefer to read Natural Awakenings on your laptop or mobile device, just text NAHTX to 66866 and we’ll add you to our email list and send you a digital copy ever month for FREE. Subscribe today and don’t miss a single issue!

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freeingMe apps (Freeingme Ltd) is excited to launch three revolutionary wellbeing apps, which use quantum technology in a new way. We believe this is the future, as we have been able to make quantum exchange work in an app for wellbeing. This is a unique information transference that helps you revive ENERGY, release STRESS or recreate REST. The apps are also designed to work offline to minimise EMF. They are so simple to use with just three easy steps: 1, on airplane mode, press start. 2, place your mobile screen down on your forearm. 3, wait under 3 minutes for the vibration to signal the end of the session. Being wellbeing apps for a new time, they utilise natural, safe quantum communication. We are naturally drawn to balance and harmony, and absorb quantum information from the outside world to do this. The apps are coded to help provide balance in the same way. Therefore wellbeing can build, unlike other devices that only produce relief while in use. Freeingme Ltd is a partnership between Grahame Martin, a highly experienced health practitioner, author and developmental trainer and Pavel Kubalak, a software developer with a fascination for personal energy work. The apps’ development has evolved from many years of human energetic study by Grahame Martin and have been tested during the past 2 years with the help of many people. “The inspiration came from helping people for twenty-five years and visualizing energy on a quantum level to understand what we people need to improve our lives.” Grahame Martin, director of Freeingme Ltd. There are presently three different freeingMe apps available on Google Play: freeing ENERGY, freeing STRESS and freeing REST. Each app is currently only available for Android users with a Free 3 day trial and an introductory offer of $3.49 per month for 3 months, and $4.49 thereafter. We are working to help iPhone users. For further information, please contact Grahame Martin at contact@freeing.me, or log onto www.freeing.me See ad on page 28

Before becoming a food activist and author, Sherra Aguirre founded and led a successful business for three decades, winning national awards for entrepreneurship, innovation, and service excellence. She sold the company to focus on her passion for healthy diet and lifestyle, having spent many years researching and reading extensively about the relationship between what we eat and preventable chronic diseases. In Joyful, Delicious, Vegan: Life Without Heart Disease Sherra shares her personal story of reversing her hypertension, despite a lengthy family history of heart disease, by adopting a whole plant-based diet. Joyful, Delicious, Vegan: Life Without Heart Disease empowers readers with the simplest, most effective way to prevent or reverse our number one killer, heart disease, regardless of family history. Its premise is that enjoying good health naturally at any age starts in our kitchens by changing what and how we eat. Although this book is important for anyone who wants to enjoy a healthy life free of chronic diseases, it targets women, especially African American women, who are on the front lines of the fight against heart disease and other diet related illnesses. It makes a compelling point that by feeding our health and not disease we set in motion a chain of healing and transformational events in body, mind and spirit. Aguirre guides us through simple steps to increase mindfulness, vitality and to eliminate or reduce dependence on medications. We learn how to prepare and enjoy delicious plant-strong, anti-inflammatory foods, based on nutritional studies and the recommendations of two world renowned cardiologists who have demonstrated patient results for many years. She shares tips for success and recipes to ensure no one has to choose between great food and great health! A practitioner of yoga and meditation, Aguirre writes about the healing qualities of mindfulness, compassion, simplicity and gratitude, as well as the ripple effect vegan eating can have on individuals, families, and communities. Joyful, Delicious, Vegan: Life Without Heart Disease may be purchased online at Amazon, Barnes and Noble or independent booksellers. See calendar listing on page 27 for virtual and in-person events.

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SUBSCRIBE NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! Natural Awakenings subscriptions are available! Get each month’s issue mailed straight to your home. 713-927-6540

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Your diet is a bank account. Good food choices are good investments. ~Bethenny Frankel

MAY 2021

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

Eco-Cosmetics Choosing Sustainable Beauty Products

eco tip

With a vision of healthy people on a healthy planet, the Holistic Chamber of Commerce (HCC) has started an international movement promoting holistic, natural and sustainable products, services and solutions. To that end, our local chapter is pleased to announce our upcoming -Virtual meeting on May 26, 2021 at 6:00PM at the following link. Holistic Chamber of Commerce https://cp.webinarblaze.live/rooms/131/join “We are glad to support this project. Our community is ready to learn more about holistic approaches to health, life and business. As we come together and consumers see the standard of integrity and professionalism we bring to the work we do, we will be able to help more people. Association with the international organization is a natural partnership which helps locals see the value of our specialties.” In addition to running this chapter of the HCC, Mike Martin shares his experience and expertise as the owner of Real Time Pain Relief Products. As a group associated with the international organization, the HCC – _Houston Memorial is here to expand awareness, education and access for local holistic and sustainable professionals and business owners. Monthly meetings are held on the _4th Wednesday of the Month_ at _6:00 PM_ virtually. We can be found online at https:// HolisticChamberOfCommerce.com/Memorial. The HCC is an international organization which serves as a bridge bringing consumers together with holistic and eco-friendly options. Now with almost 1,500 Professional Members throughout North America, consumers have easier access to high quality health, lifestyle and business products, services and solutions. All members of the Holistic Chamber of Commerce are reference-checked prior to being represented in the online Member Directory at https:// HolisticChamberOfCommerce.com. For more information on how the Holistic Chamber of Commerce can help you, visit us at https:// HolisticChamberOfCommerce. com.

Beauty is a $49 billion industry in the U.S. That’s a lot of plastic lipstick cases and shampoo tubes buried in landfills and breaking down into microplastics that leach poisonous chemicals into the world’s oceans and our drinking water. As consumers, we can vote with our wallets, sending a clear message to makeup and skincare brands: We want the planet to be beautiful, too. Sustainability to-do list: n Instead of using disposable cleansing wipes, make a reusable, washable alternative using a cut-up T-shirt or ultra-soft baby washcloths. Online DIY recipes for the liquid solution include water, witch hazel, essential oils and mild soaps. n Opt for products that eliminate water as the main ingredient, such as shampoo and conditioners that come in paper-wrapped bars, lowering shipping costs, eliminating the need for plastic bottles and conserving water. n Say no to single-use sheet masks wrapped in plastic or made of petroleum-based materials. Easier, eco-friendly swaps abound, such as cucumber slices for puffy eyes. n Go with glass packaging instead of plastic. Glass is recycled more easily and doesn’t release harmful toxic chemicals. n Choose brands that use the least amount of packaging materials as possible, eschewing plastic in favor of biodegradable, paper-wrapped, cartoned or package-less products.

n Look for brands that use less packing material and planet-forward shippers. n Support, applaud and purchase refillable products. n In certain areas of the country, #1 and #2 plastic containers commonly used in the beauty industry are not accepted at local recycling centers. TerraCycle.com offers a mail-in solution with free shipping labels for packages weighing more than 15 pounds. Among the recyclable items accepted through this program are lip balm tubes, soap dispensers, shampoo and conditioner caps, hair spray triggers, lipstick cases, mascara tubes, eye shadow cases, foundation packaging and lip liner pencils. Eco-friendly beauty brands: n By Humankind (ByHumankind.com) is reducing use of single-use plastics. n LOLI (LoliBeauty.com) is a zero-waste brand that uses food-grade glass yogurt jars that can be repurposed in the kitchen. n Cadence (KeepYourCadence.com) offers refillable containers as an alternative to wasteful, travel-size products. n Lush (LushUSA.com) champions package-less products. n Beautycounter (Beautycounter.com) has pledged to eliminate unit cartons; decrease its use of virgin plastic; use recycled, recyclable, reused or compostable packaging; and create refillable products.

NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

CELEBRATING 27 years in THE business of

MAY 2021

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

green living

Sustainably Stylish Eco-Fashion that’s Kind to the Planet by Kajsa Nickels

he trendy “fast fashion” industry standard that originated in the early 1990s has had far-reaching effects that continue today. With a production turnaround time as short as four months, designer knock-offs made with inexpensive materials line the shelves of shopping centers throughout the world. But cheap textiles come with a hidden price tag. According to the documentary The True Cost, consumers worldwide buy around 80 billion new items of clothing a year, a 400 percent increase from 20 years ago. A report by the UK-based Ellen MacArthur Foundation, which advocates a regenerative, circular economy, found that more than $500 billion in value is lost globally every year from rarely worn manufactured clothing and the lack of recycling. The greenhouse gas emissions from the production of these textiles total more than 1 billion metric tons per year, more than produced by international flights and maritime shipping combined.

Clothing from companies like Fair Indigo use more sustainable fabrics and ensure better lives for garment workers.

Sustainable clothing is important for both the planet and those wearing the clothing, says Jeff Garner, a fashion designer in Franklin, Tennessee, who founded the eco-label Prophetik. “The worst effect is the washing of clothes. The synthetic fabrics and dyes come off in the laundry process and go into our groundwater and oceans, including the microplastics from polyester clothing.” Jay Charlton, founder of the UK’s Viva la Vegan fashion brand, believes eco-friendly fashion does not have to be poorly produced or poorly designed. Nor does it mean choosing between a million different options, says Charlton, who found her passion for vegan statement apparel after adopting a vegan diet. “One easy choice here is organic cotton over conventional cotton. While not perfect, it is better for the environment. Most organic cotton is produced under better working conditions for the farmers, too,” she says. She also stresses the importance of reading labels to determine where clothes originate. “The next time you go shopping, seek out sustainable vegan fabrics and fair wear policies to do what’s right for the planet, people and our animal friends.”

Sustainable Yet Stylish Just because something is safe for people and the planet doesn’t mean it can’t also be fashionable. Fair Indigo, located in Madison, Wisconsin, is a sustainable clothing company that specializes in garments made from organic Peruvian pima cotton. According to president and co-founder Robert Behnke, Peruvian pima cotton is prized for its longevity and durability. “We want to show the world that organic and sustainable does not have to be either too ‘crunchy’ or too trendy. The clothes that people wear every day—the clothes that make them feel comfortable—these are the brands that will have the greatest impact in truly changing the world.” Fashion doesn’t have to be brand-new in order to be in style. Although secondhand clothing has been regarded negatively in the past, it has

NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

become more popular in recent years, especially during the COVID-19 crisis. Market researchers predict that resale clothing sales will increase 185 percent in the next decade compared to 20 percent for fast fashion. Creative ways we can help reduce clothing waste while staying in style include the following: Clothing exchange parties. Friends and family members can swap clothes and non-sized items such as purses, hats and scarves in fun, socially distanced events. Creative mending. People who have extra time on their hands may like to learn a new skill. Also known as visible mending, creative mending includes freestyle stitching around holes and tears, and both beaded and Japanese shashiko embroidery. Repurpose into something new. If an item of clothing is beyond repair, it doesn’t have to be thrown away. Old T-shirts can be turned into blankets, pillowcases and even coin purses. Men’s dress shirts can be transformed into dresses for young girls or onesies for babies. Kajsa Nickels is a freelance writer in Salisbury, Massachusetts. Contact her at Kajsa. BlueMountain@gmail.com.

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MAY 2021

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

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Chiropractic Guide Bee2Bee Honey Collective Brings You Local Houston Honey Not only does Houston have a diverse population, each neighborhood honey has a unique mix of diverse flora, as honeybees travel within a three mile radius of their hives. Houston’s plentiful flowers, citrus trees, herbs and gardens contribute to the beneficial honey harvests. Bee2Bee Honey Collective is an educational collective that creates backyard beekeepers throughout the city through a mentorship program, resulting in hyperlocal, neighborhood honey. Since 2016, they’ve installed over 100 beehives in micro-apiaries in Houston yards, on rooftops inside the loop, in suburbs and alongside businesses/non-profits. See a map of their neighborhoods and retailers on our website: http://www.bee2beehoney.com Their specialties include small-batch neighborhood honeys, honey infusions and products of the beehive. Bee2Bee enjoys experimenting with new flavors and seeking special honey varietals. Their honeys are always unfiltered and raw. Bee2Bee’s mission is educational – they provide beekeeping mentorship to individuals/families as well as classes and presentations on various subjects such as backyard beekeeping, urban pollination, honey varietals, honey marketing and honey pairing. The result is a small army of educated hobbyist beekeepers and an informed public.

Innate Chiropractic Healing Arts Center Dr. Jackie St.Cyr, DC 8100 Washington Ave, #210 Houston, TX 77007 713-521-2104 n8chiro.com HealthPro Chiropractic & Acupuncture Dr. Alayna E. Pagnani-Gendron, DC 4101 Green Briar Dr. #135 Houston, TX 77098 281-506-0105 healthprochiro.com Franson Chiropractic Dr. Brett V. Franson, DC 1652 South Dairy Ashford Rd. Houston, TX 77077 281-701-1596 fransonchiropractor.com Nominate your chiropractor. Email their contact info to: mike@naturalawakenings-houston.com

About Nicole Buergers & Bee2Bee Honey Collective Bee2Bee was founded in 2016 by B2B internet marketer and Houston Dairymaids cheesemonger, Nicole Buergers. Bee2Bee Honey was her answer to a market flooded with both local backyard beekeepers and customers who wanted honey from their neighborhood – but no means to get one connected to the other. She is an accomplished beekeeper providing beekeeping services to the City of Houston, the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, the Houston Dairymaids as well as families all over Houston. She serves on the board of the Houston Beekeepers Association and is currently in the Texas Master Beekeeper Program. When she is not beekeeping, you can find her at the Houston Dairymaids and on 96.1 ktru, Rice University’s radio station, as a community DJ. Nicole Buergers Bee2Bee Honey Collective bee2beehoney.com/ 281-845-4069

NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

MAY 2021

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

INTEGRATIVE

WOMEN’S WELLNESS

Five Top Health Concerns and What to Do by Ronica O’Hara

nyone walking into a U.S. hospital today will notice something that was inconceivable 50 years ago—one in three practicing physicians is a woman, and among physicians under age 35, it’s three in five. That compares to one in 14 in 1970. For women needing health care, that fact can change everything. “Research says that female physicians provide better care to female patients than male physicians do,” says Harvard Medical School Associate Professor Alice Domar, Ph.D., a pioneer in women’s mind-body medicine. “They are more likely to listen carefully and take complaints seriously.” That’s just one factor in how health care is improving for women. Only three decades ago, women were simply considered “small men” in medical research and rarely included as subjects in clinical studies. Today, after a 1993 federal mandate ensured their inclusion, it’s been well established that women metabolize drugs differently than men, respond to health threats with a more robust immune system and are more likely to experience side effects. These findings have helped spur major changes for women in standards, dosages, medications and procedures—resulting in fewer cancer deaths, better treatment of autoimmune disorders and more nuanced cardiac care strategies. Although much has improved about women’s health, much more remains to be done.

Cancer

About one in three women is diagnosed with cancer in the course of a lifetime, and they have better survival rates than men, of which one in two receives that diagnosis. Between 2001 and 2017, the overall cancer death rate for women declined by 1.4 percent each year as diagnoses and treatments became more refined and targeted. The number one cancer killer for women is lung cancer, although 19 percent diagnosed have never smoked. The next most deadly are cancers of the breast, colon/rectum, pancreas and ovaries. Breast cancer deaths have dropped by 40 percent since 1989, thanks to greater awareness, early detection and better treatments. “Women learned from the AIDS crisis that making noise gets results,” says Domar. “Look at how far breast cancer research and treatment has come in the past 10 to 20 years, how powerful Breast Cancer Awareness Month is, and that everyone recognizes that pink ribbon.”

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Common symptoms: Bowel changes, lingering sores, fatigue, lumps, unusual discharge, difficulty digesting or swallowing, nagging cough or hoarseness, belly or back pain. New research: An international research team has identified a direct molecular link between meat and dairy diets and the development of antibodies in the blood that increases the chances of developing cancer. Medical advances: Painful, invasive biopsies may become a thing of the past. Mayo Clinic researchers have developed a simple blood test that detects more than 50 types of cancer, as well as their location within the body, with a high degree of accuracy, and the City of Hope Cancer Center, in Los Angeles, has developed a urine test that analyzes cell-free fragments of DNA to detect cancer. Preventive strategies: Vitamin D supplementation lowers the risk of mortality across all cancers, German researchers found, estimating that if all Germans older than 50 took such supplements, up to 30,000 cancer deaths per year might be avoided. A 10-year study found that people between 55 and 74 that took a low-dose aspirin at least three times each week lowered their risk of all types of cancer by 15 percent and overall mortality by 19 percent.

Heart Disease

One in three American women die from heart disease, more than all cancers combined. “Unfortunately, awareness that heart disease can and does happen to women remains low, and this results in delay of care,” says cardiologist Nicole Harkin of Whole Heart Cardiology, in San Francisco. “Women tend to seek medical care later in the course of their heart attack and with more risk factors, resulting in poorer outcomes, and they are more likely than men to die of their first heart attack.” Women have different symptoms of heart disease than men, are often misdiagnosed and have a 20 percent greater risk of dying within five years of a heart attack. Pregnant women that develop hypertension are two to five times more likely to later develop cardiovascular disease. Common symptoms: Heart pressure, fatigue, breathlessness and pain between the shoulder blades. New research: Eating more than seven servings per day of refined grains like croissants and white bread increased the risk of heart disease by 33 percent and stroke by 47 percent, concluded a study in The British Medical Journal. In a Stanford study, participants that ate plant-based meat for eight weeks had improved markers of heart health, lower LDL levels and lost two pounds compared to those eating meat. Medical advance: To successfully fix a floppy mitral valve that’s hampering blood flow in the heart, doctors can guide a catheter up a patient’s leg vein and staple the troubled parts of the valve with a tiny clip, a safer and less invasive procedure than open-heart surgery. Preventive strategies: Eating nuts several times a week lowers by 30 to 50 percent the risk of heart attacks, sudden cardiac death and cardiovascular disease, four large cohort studies have shown. Older women with high fitness levels have one quarter the risk of dying from heart disease as women that are out of shape, report Spanish researchers.

Autoimmune Diseases

The prevalence of autoimmune diseases has grown by one half in two decades, even as medications and targeted therapies have kept more patients active and out of wheelchairs. “Where it used to be the norm for many physicians to consider women with some autoimmune illnesses to be neurotic, that approach is now being recognized

MAY 2021

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

lupus, Crohn’s disease and rheumatoid arthritis by normalizing the immune system and relieving pain with few side effects. “It costs only about 70 cents a day, is made by compounding pharmacists and is remarkably beneficial for a host of autoimmune conditions,” says Teitelbaum. Preventive strategy: To fight inflammation, take a daily turmeric or curcumin supplement that includes piperine (black pepper) for better absorption. A University of Houston meta-study in Nutrients found that curcumin supplements improved symptoms in 14 osteoarthritis, two ulcerative colitis and eight Type 2 diabetes studies.

Hormonal Imbalances

The past 20 years has seen significant improvements in the studies and treatments of female hormonal issues. “There are now treatment options that allow women to transition into menopause, options for prevention of osteoporosis and momentous changes in fertility,” says Stephanie Seitz, a naturopathic family physician in Scottsdale, Arizona. At the same time, she adds, “I have seen environmental toxins rising in my female population. I see young girls coming in with polycystic ovary syndrome, early menarche and painful menstrual cramping; women having trouble getting pregnant for unknown reasons; the rise of fibroids, premature ovarian insufficiency and endometriosis.” Hormones are the body’s chemical messengers, regulating processes ranging from hunger to blood pressure to mood and playing a key role in reproduction. They have come under assault from endocrine disrupters, thousands of largely unregulated per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, abbreviated PFAS. These “forever chemicals” are found in everything from plastics to cushions to canned foods, and are in the blood of 98 percent of Americans. Studies have linked them to girls experiencing puberty one year earlier than 40 years ago; to rising cases of infertility, miscarriages and low birth weight; to menopause occurring two to four years earlier; and to obesity, polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis and breast cancer. Common symptoms: Because hormones regulate all of the body’s processes, symptoms of imbalance run the gamut and may include fatigue, weakness, erratic menstrual cycles and weight gain or loss. as being abusive and unacceptable. This is a critical step towards recovery,” says chronic fatigue expert Jacob Teitelbaum, M.D., author of From Fatigued to Fantastic! About 80 percent of the 23 million Americans that suffer from debilitating autoimmune diseases are women, and those conditions tend to develop during childbearing years. The eighth-leading cause of death among women, these illnesses shorten lifespan by an average of eight years. The 80-plus diseases, including fibromyalgia, lupus, celiac disease, Type 1 diabetes, psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis, are linked to genetics, environmental triggers, some medications, obesity, injuries and stress. Common symptoms: These vary widely, but may include achy muscles, fatigue, recurring low-grade fever, joint pain and swelling, skin problems, abdominal pain and swelling, hair loss, swollen glands and tingling in hands and feet. New research: Eating significantly fewer foods containing the amino acid methionine, found at high levels in meat, fish, dairy and eggs, could slow the onset and progression of autoimmune disorders such as multiple sclerosis in high-risk individuals, reports a study in Cell Metabolism. Medical advance: Evidence is mounting that low doses of naltrexone, a substance-abuse treatment drug, can treat conditions like

New research: Early menstruation increases the likelihood of hot flashes and night sweats decades later at menopause, according to a University of Queensland study. Eating five teaspoons of extra-virgin olive oil daily reduced women’s moderate to severe menstrual cramps by 83 percent in two months, Iranian researchers found. Medical advance: A major study of 9,000 postmenopausal women with hormone-sensitive breast cancer showed 94 percent that received hormonal therapy, but not chemotherapy, did not have recurrences. Preventive strategies: To avoid toxic chemicals, buy organics; replace plastic kitchen containers with glass; replace Teflon pans with ceramic or cast-iron; use chemical-free cosmetics and shampoos; nix air fresheners and chemical cleaners; and check out food and care products at the Environmental Working Group (ewg.org). To help detox the body, consider working with a naturopathic doctor to develop a program that may include cleansing foods, herbs, saunas, elimination diets and chelators such as activated charcoal and algae.

Depression

Women are twice as likely as men to develop depression, with one in four having a major episode at some point in life, yet fewer than half seek treatment. “Many women are too busy caring for others and feel guilty about their depression, fearing it could get in the way of their caregiving goals,” says New York psychoanalyst Claudia Luiz. “Many

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have the fantasy that if they open that door and allow themselves to focus on their feelings, they won’t be able to keep going.” Depression occurs most frequently in women ages 25 to 44, and one in five teenage girls reports having had a major depressive episode, a number that has exploded due to social media use. Psychotherapy is effective for 62 percent of adults with depression, antidepressants work for 54 percent and combining the two is helpful for 72 percent. Common symptoms: Sadness, anxiety, flat feeling, loss of motivation or feelings of pleasure, change of eating or sleeping patterns, low energy, difficulty concentrating or headaches.

THE WISDOM OF EASTERN MEDICINE AND THE ADVANCEMENTS OF WESTERN MEDICINE SPECIALIZING IN: WOMEN’S HEALTH, FERTILITY, MENOPAUSE COSMETIC FACIAL ACUPUNCTURE MICRONEEDLING AND PAIN MANAGEMENT We Accept Many Insurance Plans

New research: Sleeping irregular hours, doing night shifts and working for more than nine hours a day have been shown to put women at higher risk of depression, while eating more dietary fiber in produce, grains and legumes significantly lowers this risk. Medical advances: For the estimated one in four people with depression that doesn’t respond to medication or therapy, emerging approaches offer fresh hope. Low doses of the anesthetic drug ketamine lifted the depression of 70 percent of hard-to-treat subjects by targeting specific serotonin receptors, Swedish researchers report. Transcranial magnetic stimulation, which uses magnetic pulses to stimulate parts of the prefrontal cortex, lifts symptoms for 50 to 60 percent of subjects, studies show. Preventive strategies: Eating at least two servings a week of wild-caught, oily fish or a daily 1,000-to-2,000-milligram fish oil supplement with a 60-to-40 EPA to DHA ratio has been shown to be effective for symptoms of depression, bipolar disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and postpartum depression. Taking a brisk daily walk in nature with a friend or dog lowers four factors linked to depression: a “nature deficit”, physical inactivity, low vitamin-D levels and isolation. Natural health writer Ronica O’Hara can be reached at OHaraRonica@gmail.com.

MAY 2021

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

Katy Acupuncture and Herbal Care 1822 Snake River Rd, Suite E Katy, TX 77449 281-789-8970 katyacupuncture.com

natural health

Devaki Lindsey Berkson on

Bioidentical Hormones for Long-Term Health by Linda Sechrist

ormone scholar Dr. Devaki Lindsey Berkson, a nutrition and gut expert as well as a continuing education professor for medical doctors and pharmacists, frequently lectures at conferences to clarify misinformation about hormones, such as the difference between synthetic hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and plant-based bio-identical hormone therapy (BHT). This peer-reviewed, published researcher is the bestselling author of Safe Hormones Smart Women and Sexy Brain: How Sizzling Intimacy & Balanced Hormones Prevent Alzheimer’s, Cancer, Depression & Divorce and a breast cancer survivor of 26 years.

Why do you refer to hormones as nature’s physiologic internet system?

Hormones send invaluable “email” signals to cells throughout the entire body and brain.

What is the difference between HRT and BHT?

Synthetic hormones are altered by pharmaceutical companies to make them profitable. Bioidentical hormones are like those made by the body and designed by Mother Nature. I advise tracking hormone

levels every decade throughout life to determine which levels help an individual feel their best. Unfortunately, doctors are still being taught that hormones are mainly important for reproductive or sexy things, addressing issues like peri- or post-menopause, andropause, erectile dysfunction or disease.

How did the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) affect the use of hormones?

Up until 2002, when WHI prematurely stopped one of its hormone study groups which was prescribed a combination of Premarin plus synthetic progesterone, estrogen therapies were the recommended standard of care for menopausal women and the biggest-selling pharmaceuticals in history. Medical journals, research institutions and expert cancer doctors accepted that estrogen was safe and did not increase the risk of breast cancer. Carried out by the U.S. National Institutes of Health from 2002 to 2008, WHI conducted a series of 40 group studies following the health of 161,809 postmenopausal women. Studies covered various aspects of aging women’s health from diet, bone health and nutrients to heart health and the risk of hormone-driven cancers, as well as two randomized trials on hormone therapies. The resulting claims that the

HRT combo of Premarin plus synthetic progestin significantly increased the risks of breast cancer, cardiac events, Alzheimer’s disease and stroke alarmed the public and huge numbers of U.S. doctors stopped prescribing hormones.

What has changed?

By 2004, re-analysis of the combo study demonstrated opposite findings, and a 19year follow-up WHI analysis revealed that estrogen protects against breast cancer while on it and even 10 years after, while progestins do the opposite. Dr. Leon Speroff, professor at the University of Oregon and the physician who authored Clinical Gynecologic Endocrinology and Infertility, twice concluded after reviewing every statistical nuance of the WHI, “There continues to be good reason to believe that there are benefits associated with treatment, including improvement of quality of life beyond the relief of hot flushes, maximal protection against osteoporotic fractures, a reduction in colorectal cancers, maintenance of skin elasticity and the possibility of primary prevention of coronary heart disease and Alzheimer’s.” Although new science clearly showed that hormones rule body and brain health and are critical for staying healthy, fighting illness long-term rather than short-term and lowering mortality timing by preventing heart attacks and strokes, CEOs of Big Pharma companies that provided the synthetic hormones used in the WHI trials continued to fight hard against BHT formulated by compounding pharmacists. Now these very same CEOs have released a BHT combination of estradiol and progesterone and are writing in peer review studies about how much better and safer it is. Big Pharma intends be the sole source of supply. They plan to do that by eliminating their competition: compounding pharmacies.

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What is your experience with compounding pharmacists?

The FDA purports that compounding pharmacies are dangerous, unregulated and use items that are too complicated to compound. Not true. Compounding pharmacists are skilled professionals at mixing bioidentical hormones to a doctor’s prescription. I’ve successfully been using compounding pharmacies for more than 30 years. A compounding pharmacist should be part of the health team when natural, bioidentical hormones are prescribed. Their knowledge can provide a wealth of experience for doctor and the patient. Furthermore, they provide an invaluable service at manufacturing a safe product that is unique for a particular patient. Hormones are so critical that even if you’re prescribed HRT, it’s better than losing out for decades on the hormone signals that keep your body younger and less inflamed. To be without healthy hormone signals is an aging and pro-inflammatory process to the body. In other words, get hormones any way you can. While synthetic is better than nothing, bioidentical trumps synthetic. DrLindseyBerkson.com offers a podcast archive, blog, newsletter and membership opportunities that include live, monthly, Zoom conversations. Linda Sechrist is a senior staff writer for Natural Awakenings.

Local Resources DR. FISHER ROAD 2 WELLNESS Dr. LaTronica Fisher, DNP, ANP, GNP, RN 4544 Post Oak Place Dr. STE #254 Houston, Texas 77027 DrFisherRoad2Wellness.com 713 520-8188

HOUSTON HOLISTIC HEALTH CLINIC & 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

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MAY 2021

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

fit body

Stay Fit with Bodywork Therapy Enhance Workout Performance and Recovery with Massage

herapeutic massage and other bodywork modalities are well-known stress-busters, but they can also hasten recovery after a workout or injury. A little restorative TLC with a bodywork practitioner before or after exercise can combat post-workout soreness and stiffness, maximizing our fitness investments in and out of the gym. Approaches such as Swedish, deep tissue and sports massages, and myofascial trigger point release therapy can boost both blood and lymphatic circulation, giving soft tissues a vital shot of cellular nutrition. Massage modalities affect biochemical processes and on the deepest level, mitochondria—the cell’s energy-producing engines. Research from 2015 published in the journal Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise shows that massage immediately following injury due to resistance training encourages tissue regeneration.

Tailored Tools

“In the context of exercise, someone who trains three to five times per week at a high intensity will likely have a higher level of fitness. However, the demand placed on the soft tissue structures will equally be high, and may require more treatment to offset this. This may vary from once a week to once a month,” says Andy Stanbury, head of soft tissue therapy at Pure Sports Medicine, a London clinic for sports injuries. After working with high performance athletes for 15 years, he always asks, “What do I need to add to improve a patient’s fitness or performance?” For a patient that wants to improve fitness by running, “I would want to optimize their range of movement and stimulate the nervous system in readiness to exercise. I may look to use some myofascial release techniques, active release therapy, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization or muscle energy techniques. This would of course take place before the run.” For post-run recovery, Stanbury suggests more relaxing modalities, such as gentle massage, combined with breathwork.

The Fascia Factor

Fascia, a network of connective tissue, wraps the body in protective layers from the most

superficial muscle to the deepest organs and plays a central role in flexibility. This complex netting can become stuck due to inactivity, injury or surgery. Keeping it supple is vital for everyone. Bodywork like myofascial release that targets trigger points—knots of tension—can help to ramp up postoperative and overall injury recovery. “Myofascial release is a technique used to reduce the tension in the fascial membrane. Slowly stretching the fascia will unwind and reduce the pressure on the muscles and nerves, reducing pain and creating range of motion and flexibility,” explains Anthony Hansen, a myofascial release therapist at Therapy on the Gulf, in Naples, Florida. Hansen, who specializes in a “fast release” technique, emphasizes the importance of a gentle approach. “Trigger points are caused by cellular debris encapsulated by the fascia, so it’s much better to stretch it loose than it is to force it. Normally, it takes about three to

five sessions, depending on the condition of the patient, for the fascial system to unwind before the patient will feel relief.” Active trigger points refer, or radiate, pain elsewhere in the body while latent points tend to be more localized and are sore when compressed. “From a wholebody perspective and when we put this in the context of fascial planes, restoration of efficient movement is key, particularly post-surgery and when progressing training load,” says Stanbury. “However, this is not just movement of the body (muscles), but movement of blood, lymph and energy.” A supple, tension-free body helps deter and bounce back from injuries. Regular bodywork, especially Swedish and deep tissue massage, fosters muscle recovery and helps prevent future issues. Self-massage using foam rollers and massage balls or canes can also be very helpful. Bodywork offers full-spectrum perks, points out Stanbury, including “improved tissue mobility and elasticity, more efficient blood circulation and reduced anxiety and stress. This will, in turn, help promote better sleep, which is, of course, where we recover best.”

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You only have this one life and the question is, how are you going to live it? Are you going to look young and healthy or sick and old? Are you going to let high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes take you before your time or are you going to do something about it? Regardless of whether you are interested in competitive bodybuilding or just getting fit so you can play with your children or grandchildren, it is never too late to start.

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Pick one bad habit you want to change. Visualize the end result. Where do you want to be 6 months from now? Identify small changes can you make to reach that goal. Start today. Be consistent and be dedicated. Consider hiring a Fitness Trainer so you have someone to be accountable to. Six months from now, you will have a program that you can maintain as you choose another change that you want to make. Yesterday is gone and tomorrow is not promised to any of us. I have been working out all my life and at 66, I still compete in and win bodybuilding competitions. Working out can erase 20 years from your body. Remember, muscle knows no age.

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MAY 2021

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

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plant-based wellness

Homeopathy to the Rescue Create a Family First-Aid Kit

he 200-year-old health system of homeopathy is based on natural sources and is unique in its “like cures like” philosophy that uses extremely diluted substances to trigger the body’s natural defenses. “The word homeopathy is derived from two words: homeo—meaning similar, and pathos—meaning suffering. Basically, it means that a substance has the power to cure the same symptoms it can create,” says Kate Birch, a certified classical homeopath at the HippHealth Center for Holistic Healing, in Minneapolis. “Moreover, the more a substance is diluted through homeopathic preparation, the more potent it can be for healing when given upon homeopathic indications.” For most health conditions, including chronic complaints, homeopaths recommend tailoring remedies to an individual’s constitution, but first-aid applications are relatively universal and simple. Homeopathic first-aid can be administered for muscle strains, splinters, minor burns and even the common cold. Available in health food stores and pharmacies, homeopathic remedies come in various potencies in the form of pellets, tinctures and topical agents.

Gentle Go-To Medicine

Whether treating a child’s skinned knee or an athlete with a mild to moderate injury, regular potencies offer benefits without a high risk of unpleasant or dangerous contraindications. “In general, homeopathic remedies are safe for people of all ages because if taken as directed, there are no side effects or drug interactions. This is due to the fact that remedies have been made through a process that renders the substances harmless,” says certified classical homeopath Myra Nissen, in Davis and Walnut Creek, California. Classical homeopathic treatment is based on a person’s unique physical, emotional and mental nature, and requires deeper study to find the most appropriate remedies, but firstaid applications are most often universally straightforward. “A homeopathic first-aid kit at home is useful for cuts, burns, bumps and bruises, insect bites, poison oak/ivy and minor illnesses,” says Nissen. Gentle, but beneficial Arnica montana is perhaps the best-known application, used for acute injury and post-surgery. In a 2016 review of studies in the American Journal of Therapeutics, a team of international researchers found Arnica to be more effective than a placebo for swelling, bruising and post-surgery pain, and suggested it could be an alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Calendula is a heavy hitter for wound care, skin ailments, minor burns including sunburn, diaper rash and post-tooth extraction. It offers antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties and is available for topical and internal use.

Soft Tissue Trauma, Burns and Bites

Nissen highlights Ruta graveolens and Rhus toxicdendron for soft tissue injury and tendonitis and suggests Symphitum for serious damage to cartilage and ligaments. For puncture wounds or injuries involving nerves, Hypericum perforatum is helpful. She emphasizes the importance of using remedies immediately and properly to maximize the potential

for rapid healing and pain reduction. Birch says that bee stings and allergic responses respond well to Apis mellificia and fevers and headaches to Belladonna. Using Cantharis or Urtica urens for first- and second-degree burns can help to prevent blisters and minimize pain, while Silicea is a good choice for splinters. In general, for all acute cases and injuries, remedies are often taken every hour and tapered down to every four hours upon signs of improvement or lessening of intensity. If results are not seen within two days, it is best to discontinue the remedy.

Fighting the Flu

When taken at the first sign of a cold or flu, specially combined homeopathic formulas or single remedies can help to lessen severity and duration of certain viruses. Bryonia alba is useful for moderate fever, Gelsemium for general flu-like symptoms, Nux vomica for severe chills and nausea, and Arsenicum album for respiratory and stomach flus. Homeopathic remedies, like all medications, should be properly stored and kept away from children and pets. Also, not all products labeled as homeopathic may be pure. Some products add homeopathic remedies to other ingredients that are not safe; for example, Arnica gel may have alcohol, preservatives and stabilizers, and be harmful if swallowed. While homeopathy offers many benefits, Birch clarifies that it is not designed to be a quick fix and is best approached from a broader view or “a philosophy that shapes your day-to-day life. When you understand these things, once you have the right remedy, it produces instantaneous results.” Marlaina Donato is a body-mind-spirit author and composer. Connect at AutumnEmbersMusic.com.

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Kratom: a gift from Mother Nature’s medicine cabinet

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by John Vastola

Over the last decade, kratom, a plant of interest has become quite popular in the United States and is touted by users for its numerous medicinal qualities. Kratom (m. Speciosa) is an evergreen, cousin to the coffee plant, native to South East Asia whose leaves have been utilized by the locals in folk medicine for eons. In the 1800’s Dutch colonists were the first Europeans to identify the traditional uses of the kratom leaves which were chewed or brewed in a tea by the indigenous tribes of Borneo and Sumatra. Kratom has many varieties produced by region, drying process and most notably blending. However, the various strains are commonly categorized by color, Green, White & Red. Green veins are traditionally known for increased physical energy, with moderate to high analgesic effects (pain relieving - good for daytime). Red veins are known for their calming effects and pain-relieving qualities (good for nighttime and chronic pain). White veins are traditionally known to increase mental focus and clarity, reduce social anxiety and having moderate physical energy and painkilling effects. Kratom has been shown to be an effective treatment for opioid withdrawal because of its key pharmacological properties. With a multitude of active components kratom has been known for its anti-inflammatory properties and as a muscle relaxer. Patients suffering from ailments such as fibromyalgia and Lyme disease have seen a reduction in symptoms, because of kratom’s many beneficial medicinal properties.

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According to the American Kratom Association, (AKA), there are as many as fifteen million kratom users in the United States and this number continues to grow as more and more people turn to natural plant medicines to address their chronic pain, depression and fatigue. Kratom is a Federally legal product but is banned on a state level in 6 states. In Texas kratom is currently legal. As with any medication, whether it is created by man or from a plant, there is a possibility of unwanted side-effects. With kratom these may include constipation, dry mouth and edginess. Plants with numerous medicinal qualities have the potential to pose harm when they are misused or taken in combination with other herbs, drugs or alcohol. Speaking with your doctor or medical provider, conducting one’s own research and examining the pros and cons are all necessary steps before bringing a new herb into your daily regimen. Kratom, a gift from “Mother Nature’s medicine cabinet” is no exception. Do the proper footwork to ensure the best results when taking any plant, supplement or medication. Nature’s abundance has provided us with a multitude of natural medicines, but it is paramount to understand their proper and intended use to ensure success. John Vastola is the owner of Kreat Day Botanicals

MAY 2021

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Well, sometimes being late is unavoidable. We all have experienced delays caused by Houston traffic or the dreaded train. But if your friend’s tardiness is a common occurrence, then she is being disrespectful of your time and your friendship. Your boundaries are being violated, and it’s likely that you were conditioned as a child to overlook these behaviors. Nevertheless, each of us is responsible for taking care of ourselves.

wise words

The Cliff Notes version of setting boundaries: • We are responsible for our own thoughts, feelings, responses, and behaviors. • We are not responsible for other people’s dramas, mistakes, feelings or actions. • Each one of us has to be responsible for how we feel. • We teach others how we want to be treated. It’s that simple. • Tolerating behaviors that are disrespectful gives the message that we will accept being stepped on and taken advantage of.

YOU GET WHAT YOU TOLERATE By Arlene Schneider

his past year, the pandemic has certainly taught many of us about social distancing and physical boundaries. Judging from what I see in grocery stores and restaurants, we have become pretty good at it! But how skilled are we at enforcing emotional boundaries? Saying no to a boss who expects us to answer emails 24/7 or firmly and compassionately setting limits with someone who wants daily “friend” therapy sessions are just two examples of common scenarios that raise emotional boundary issues. You might be thinking, “I can’t do that, it’s not my nature to be mean!” or “I don’t want to be rude.” It makes sense that you might have those reservations because many of us were raised to never say no. Setting restrictions and practicing self-care may be unfamiliar and even uncomfortable. Let me try to put your mind at ease: Taking care of yourself is not mean, selfish, or rude. This may sound harsh, but often when we tell ourselves that setting boundaries is selfish or could hurt someone else’s feelings, we are merely creating an excuse to avoid doing something we find difficult. Imagine a friend who always shows up late for appointments with you while you are always on time. This friend may stroll in 15 minutes late, but is always apologetic. You accept her apology and say, “No worries, it’s all good.” That’s what a nice accepting friend does, right?

Setting boundaries is empowering and liberating. It is a strength that emboldens us to care for others and ourselves in a caring and compassionate manner. Let’s take this a step further. Another type of emotional boundary is when we impose ourselves on others. In my practice I see adult children who strive to become independent, but their parents want to continue making decisions for them. This usually causes a fracture of the parent/child relationship. Then we have parents who demand that teachers change their child’s grades or place their child in an AP class when testing shows that is not the best choice for that child. These are examples of well meaning, concerned parents trying to do their best for their children. It is all done in love, but the consequences can be destructive. In setting boundaries, detaching from the outcome is critical. We can still love and show compassion without violating another person’s boundaries. Understanding and setting boundaries can be complicated but once a person understands how powerful doing so can be, it becomes a welcome and liberating exercise. This week, take some time to reflect on how you are enforcing your own personal boundaries-and how you may be encroaching on someone else’s emotional space. Arlene Schneider, MSW, CPC, PCC, ELI-MP is a local Houston Life Coach. schneidercoachinggroup.com See ad on page 20

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Meditation for Transformation Online self-paced meditation courses by Claire Villarreal, PhD. focusing on bringing your practice into daily life. Start with the Free Mini-Course Essential Tools for Meditation ClaireVillarreal.com

MAY 2021

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

calendar of events May 2021 MONDAY MAY 4thTUESDAY MAY 18TH

Open Enrollment at Phoenix School of Massage Learn the career you will come to Love. Enroll in our live online classes. Visit our website themassageschool.com Call 713-974-5976.

TUESDAY MAY 4th

2021 Houston’s Heroes Award Luncheon 11:30 am The Annual Houston’s Heroes Award Luncheon honors individuals and organizations who have given exemplary services to make Houston a safer place to live, work, learn and play. Royal Sonesta Houston 2222 West Loop South Houston, TX 77027 For ticket purchases or more information please visit https://crime-stoppers.org/get-involved/2021CSLuncheon.

WEDNESDAY MAY 26th

Holistic Chamber of Commerce 6-8 pm It is the time for our community of holistic practitioners and friends to come together and grow this chapter. Our goal is to be a chapter that will help its members to grow and develop and to help our Houston community learn about our holistic businesses. We each bring unique skills and talents that as we share can help each other and our community and prospects. Please bring yourself and bring a friend to our meeting.... Looking forward to meeting all of you. no cost, virtual meeting at https://cp.webinarblaze.live/ rooms/130/join Any questions, call or email memorial@holisticchamberofcommerce.com

SATURDAY & SUNDAY MAY 15th & 16th

Coronavirus and self-healing workshop 9am4:30 pm We are in the middle of a pandemic. The health care system of this country is focusing on external methods (treatments and vaccine) hoping that the vaccine would eventually eliminate the pandemic. The institute is developing an internal energy system to handle the pandemic to complement the external methods. During the workshop, you learn the tools of energy cultivation system that would help you 1) minimize the effect of infection i.e you become asymptomatic and less infectious. 2) treat mild symptoms effectively to avoid a major autoimmune response which result in organ damage. 3) repair the organ and systemic damages caused by the virus. 4) prepare for the next pandemic. Ching Chi Institute 10300 Harwin Dr. apt.208, Houston TX 77036. Please call Dr. Wu at 832-654-2885 or go to chingchiinstitute.com for more information. Since the class size is limited, reservation is required. My Email address is chingchiinstitute@yahoo.com. All the precautions (ventilation, open windows, wearing mask and limited social distancing) are taken for the in-door workshop.

TUESDAY MAY 25th

PLANTSTRONG Podcast with host Rip Esselstyn 1:30-2:30 pm CT Rip Esselstyn interviews Sherra Aguirre, author of Joyful, Delicious, Vegan: Life Without Heart Disease about preventing and reversing heart disease with a delicious plantbased diet. For more information please visit www.plantstrongpodcast.com

Living the Change Weekly Online Discussion Group 6 pmThis 12-week program focuses on making personal lifestyle changes in three areas: transportation; energy; and food. The Interfaith Environmental Network of Houston invites you to join us on this journey, via a weekly online discussion group. . Please register for this event on www.eventbrite.com. For more information, please contact Lisa Brenskelle at gcs.lrc@gmail. com.

saturday

SUNDAY MAY 9th

Kazi Book Review with host Hopeton Hay 12:30 - 1:30 pm CT Mother and Daughter interview with authors Sherra Aguirre, Tembi Locke and Attica Locke for Texas Writers Month, live on Austin’s KAZI 88.7 FM. please visit https://www. facebook.com/kazibookreview/ for more information.

thursday

plan ahead TUESDAY JUNE 8th

Black Authors Matter Interview 7:00 - 8:00 pm CT Live interview with Sherra Aguirre, author of Joyful, Delicious, Vegan: Life Without Heart Disease about preventing and reversing heart disease and health benefits of a plant-based diet. Live streamed on Facebook @ https://www. facebook.com/nationalblackbookfestival No registration required.

WEDNESDAY JUNE 9th

Brazos Bookstore, Virtual Summer of Women Book Club 7:00 - 8:00 pm CT Book event featuring Sherra Aguirre’s book Joyful, Delicious, Vegan: Life Without Heart Disease. Discussion with the author and Q&A with participants. For registration and more information go to www. brazosbookstore.com.

No Drop Saturdays 7:30-9:30 am Beginner Level Social Bike Ride All level of riders welcome. This is a slow paced, no drop ride that’s perfect for first time riders, families, or anyone who has not done a group ride before. There will be instruction on how to shift, how to brake, etc., as needed. Bicycle World of Katy, 24555 Katy Fwy, Katy, TX 77494 Call 281-665-1016 for more information.

sunday Houston Zen Center 8”20 am Sunday Sangha. https://houstonzen.org/cloud-zendo Grace Episcopal Church & School. 10 am. Sunday Worship Livestream. https://www.facebook.com/GraceinHouston/ Unity Spiritual Center of Greater Houston 10:15 am Sunday Service. Facebook Live https://unityspiritualcenterhouston.org First Spiritualist Church of Houston 10:30 am Sunday Healing & Spirit Greetings Facebook Live

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/ Healing Meditation at First Spiritualist Church of Houston. 7:30 pm Livestream on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FirstSpiritualistChurchofHouston/

First Unitarian Universalist Church 10:30 am Sunday Morning Worship Livestream. https:// firstuu.org/ Unity of Houston. 11 am Sunday Morning Service Livestreaming. https://unityhouston.org/ Creative Life Spiritual Center 11 am Sunday Celebration. Facebook Live https://www.facebook.com/creativelife.org/ Unitarian Fellowship of Houston 11 am. Sunday Program. Click on Sunday Program to access the Zoom link. https://ufoh.org/ Dawn Mountain Center for Tibetan Buddhism 12 noon. Sunday Meditation & Dharma Talk. https://www.youtube.com/user/dawnmountain ISKCON 5 pm Sunday Feast Class Livestream https://www.mayapur.tv/

NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

healthy living guide ACUPUNCTURE Houston Integrative Health, Acupuncture and Mindful Movement 716 Chelsea Blvd. Houston, TX 77006 832-304-0149 facebook.com/drlance houstonintegrative

Whether you are looking to optimize your health or take care of an injury, pain or a chronic medical problem, let Lance Westendarp ND, LAc, BCB, CKTP, E-RYT200, help. Lance is a graduate of Bastyr University with a Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine and a Masters in Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine. He has also been teaching yoga and movement since 2003, is board certified in biofeedback and mind-body medicine. Follow him on Facebook and call him today for a FREE phone consultation. See ad on page 5

BIOLOGICAL DENTISTRY

FREEING ME Apps freeing.me Imagine having revolutionary quantum wellness energy always at hand. Now it’s here in three apps that can help revive ENERGY, release STRESS and recreate REST. Visit our website to download a FREE 3-day trial.

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 26

See Ad on page 20

MARILYN K. JONES, DDS Houston Dental Health Center 800 Bering Dr. Houston, TX 77057 713-497-1355 houstonbiologicaldentist.com

COLONICS

Coming Next Month

Integrative Approaches to Men’s Health Plus: Treating Depression Naturally Travel for the Planet Tips for Eating Vegan on Vacation

MAY 2021

JOYCE LONG’S WELLNESS INSTITUTE

CERESET™

1308 James Street Rosenberg, TX 77471 281-232-7336 joycelongwellness.com

The Cereset™ Gavston location is part of a national network of client centers focused on next-generation brain wellness - helping you relax your brain to manage restful sleep through patented BrainEcho™ technology, which empowers the brain to reset itself as it hears and “sees” its own reflection. To schedule an appointment call: 409-599-7268.

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!

See ad on pages 6 & 8

URBAN COLONICS

Galveston, Texas cereset.com 409-599-7268

BLISSFUL QUESTS

Barbara Ellis, Retired RN 5042 Briscoe St. Houston, TX.77033 713-738-8199 urbancolonics.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

Serving Houston and the surrounding area since 1979. We continue to irrigate with State Of The Art Equipment (closed colonic systems cleared by the FDA). We utilize totally disposable colonic setups 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 on page 8

See ad page 5

COACHING

JUNE

Arlene Schneider, MSW, CPC, PCC, ELI-MP Is it time to resent your mindset? www.schneidercoachinggroup.com Are you living life to the fullest? Are you who you want to be? If not, and you would like to have a new perspective to pursue your dreams, coaching with Arlene can help you achieve a new attitude and love of life. With 14 years as a licensed therapist, and as a Professional Certified Coach, Arlene uses a blend of cognitive/behavioral and intuitive coaching to help her clients achieve their goals with confidence. Now accepting clients from teens to adults. New clients will receive guided meditation journal prompts to supplement their journey. Contact: schneidercoachinggroup.com or arleneschn@gmail.com

BRAIN BALANCING APPS

SCHNEIDER COACHING GROUP

Positive change starts now! 832-628-4113 blissfulquests.com

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

GROW YOUR BUSINESS Secure this ad spot!

ERIN THOLE, CNHP ErinThole.com Thole.erin@gmail.com

HOLISTIC HEALTH PRIMARY CARE HOUSTON HOLISTIC HEALTH CLINIC & MEDICAL THERMOGRAPHY CENTER

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. See Ad page 6

GREEN POWER DRINKS

TERRA POWER GREENS 954-459-1134

terralifestore.com Feeling Tired and Need More Energy? Wake up with increased energy, feeling fresh and energized in the morning, and don’t be surprised if you start waking up before the alarm clock goes off. You will feel clean, energized, mentally sound and just overall great! Terra Power Greens is an amazing and great-tasting superfood drink. Our unique formula combines 45+ organic and high quality wildcrafted vegetables, grasses, leaves, sprouts and herbs. In the “greens” business since 2001. Get samples of four of our best selling products, greens powder, clay, electrolytes & colon cleanser FREE as a new customer. (Pay only shipping) Visit our website TODAY and start bringing your body back into balance!

HAIR DESIGN VENUS HAIR DESIGN

361 West 19th Street Houston, TX 77008 713-868-4725 venushairhouston. com Venus and her staff can do any age with any style, from a trim to a Mohawk. She is a wizard at color! If you are in The Heights, drop by, check out her art car, The Hairse, and say Hi! Now OPEN by appointment only. Call me!

“Better Health Naturally” Dr. Gracie G. Chukwu, ND, CTN 6401 Southwest Freeway, Suite 250 Houston, TX 77074 713-781-9991 HoustonHolisticHealthClinic.com

Have you spent years in hope for finding answers to your symptoms or illnesses? We offer people an alternative solution to conventional medicine by determining the specific nutritional needs of your body so that it can to heal itself. We now also offer medical thermography useful in early diagnosis of cancer and chronic inflamatory pain. Call today to schedule an appointment.

HYPNOSIS 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!

INDIVIDUAL NUTRITIONAL PROTOCOLS LINDA ISAACS, MD 2500 W. William Cannon Dr., Suite 603 Austin, TX 78745 737-208-0831 DrLindaI.com/NAHTX For more than 20 years, Dr. Linda Isaacs and the late Dr. Nicholas Gonzalez offered individualized protocols involving diet, nutritional supplementation, and detoxification for cancer and other degenerative diseases. They published multiple articles in peer-reviewed medical journals about their results. The work is based on that of the Texas orthodontist Dr. William Donald Kelley. Dr. Isaacs is currently seeing new patients.

NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE

ODYSSEY EMPORIUM

JOYCE LONG’S WELLNESS INSTITUTE

1308 James Street Rosenberg, TX 77471 281-232-7336 joycelongwellness.com/ 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 causing swelling. Lymphatic massage can reduce swelling and improve circulation throughout the lymphatic system. By appointment only. Be well-Stay well. CALL TODAY!

MEDITATION

GREEN IS SEEN when you advertise with us. 713-927-6540

Claire Villarreal: Meditation Instruction for Transformation clairevillarreal.com

Online meditation classes to help you bring your practice into your daily life. Whether you are an experienced meditator or just beginning to meditate, Claire Villarreal, PhD offers online classes to help you make a lifesytyle of Coming Home to Your Mind. The free mini-course is available on her website and the full course During this time of added stress when in-person meditation communities are closed, take advantage of this opportunity to receive timeless teaching and practice in the comfort of your home. See ad on page 22

JUNE

Coming Next Month

Treating Depression

Plus: Integrative Approaches to Men’s Health Travel for the Planet Tips for Eating Vegan on Vacation

MAY 2021

METAPHYSICAL SHOP

HOUSTON METRO EDITION

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. We carry some wonderful and unusual products some of which are artisan made. 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.

NATURAL HORMONES DR. FISHER ROAD 2 WELLNESS

Dr. LaTronica Fisher, DNP, ANP, GNP, RN 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

OPTICIAN FACTORY EYEGLASS OUTLET 7921 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77024 713-468-5665 factoryeyeglassoutlet.com

Factory Eyeglass Outlet provides the ultimate services for all your eyecare needs. Whether you’re looking for premium or standard eyewear, we have something for you. As part of our superior services we offer complimentary consulting and frame styling. Next time you need you need new eyeglasses or need a repair choose Factory Eyeglass Outlet. Better sight- Better Life.

PERSONAL TRAINER

JUNE

Integrative Approaches to Men’s Health Plus: Treating Depression Naturally Travel for the Planet Tips for Eating Vegan on Vacation

FIRST SPIRITUALIST CHURCH OF HOUSTON

JOEY DIEGO, PERSONAL TRAINER

2115 Turner Dr. Houston, Texas 77093 713-695-2550 firstspiritualistchurchofhouston.org

Build your beach body, now! Erase 20 years from your body and quit looking sick and old. Prevent or reverse high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. Lose weight. Live longer and better so you can enjoy your children and grandchildren. Remember, muscle knows no age. What are you waiting for? Call JoeyDiego TODAY! See ad page 22

Spiritualism is a common sense religion, one of knowing and living. We accept all truths and endeavor to prove their validity. Truths are found in nature, in other religions, in writings, in science, in philosophy, in Natural Law and are received through spirit communication. We are a growing family and would love for you to visit us

917-402-8664

SELF-HEALING

LIVESTREAMING ON FACEBOOK Sunday Healing & Spirit Greetings 10:30 a.m. Wednesday Open Healing Service 7:30 p.m.

Ching Chi Institute

Life energy education and research Kun Wu, Ph. D. Integral chi healer Chi H Wu, L. Acupuncturist 832-654-2885 chingchiinstitute.com

JULY

Food as Medicine

Plus: Better Sleep The Ethics of What We Eat Benefits of Urban Gardening

AUGUST

Boost Happiness & Well-Being

Plus: Back-to-School Wellness Tips Benefits of Having a Life Coach Shamanism Today

713-927-6540

Do you want to learn how CHING to use your body’s own CHI chi energy to decrease your chance of becoming ill, increase your chance of recovering INSTITUTE more quickly from illness, prevent a minor illness from becoming a major one, and improve your overall health? We have live and prerecorded classes online to teach you the principles and techniques of self-healing. We will be resuming in-person classes this month. Look for our new offering on the Corona Virus. Visit our website for more information.

If you are reading this then so are your potential customers.

SPIRITUALITY GRACE EPISCOPAL CHURCH 4040 West Bellfort Street Houston, TX 77025 713-666-1408 GraceInHouston.org

We are a welcoming, inclusive and affirming Christian community, committed to abundant, holistic living in the way of Jesus of Nazareth. Guided in our life together by the Episcopal Church tradition, we are committed a way of love. Come walk on our Tree of Life Labyrinth by appointment anytime. Grace: you are welcome here.

Call Today for a FREE Marketing Consultation

713-927-6540

NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

WE GROW WHAT WE SELL ... organically and sustainably! This is the only way that we can be sure of the quality that goes into the products we sell and you should insist on nothing less. family owned and operated fully licensed hemp farm regenerative farming completely organic just outside of College Station Hemp Flower -Vape Products - Isolates -Tinctures HoneyHills TX products are available at the following area locations: Houston, TX: Smoke Envy-Yale St, Smoke Envy-Nasa Rd 1, Amsterdam Coffee-W. 19th Galveston, TX: Hazy Daze-Seawall Blvd, Hazy Daze -The Strand, Hazy Daze - 3802 Cove View Blvd , Smokee’s Vape & Smoke Shop-Seawall Blvd Bryan/College Station: Smokin’ Joe’s-South Texas Ave. Caldwell, TX: Cotten’s Care CBD - 203 Hwy. 21 W

Honey Hills TX

Est. 2019 - Caldwell, Texas 832.868.9452 honeyhillstx.com 32

MAY 2021

HOUSTON METRO EDITION