Natural Awakenings Houston June 2020 by Holistic Choice Publishing/Natural Awakenings Houston

E R F

HEALTHY

LIVING

POWER UP YOUR BRAIN

Ways to Boost Blood Flow

Coming Home to Your Mind

Your Immune System Boosting vs Balancing

HEALTHY

PLANET

TRAVELING IN PLACE Staycations Are Strong on Adventure

Reducing Stress Ways Massage Can Help

Plant-Based Wellness

The Cost of Meat and Other Animal Products

June 2020 | Houston-Metro Edition | NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

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Contents 9 Boosting vs Balancing Your Immune System

10 Everyday Adventures 11 Transformational Staycations 15 Coming Home to Your Mind

17 Learn 4 Ways to Reduce Stress Through Massage 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.

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

18 Power Up Your Brain

19 The Cost of Meat 21 Feeding Happiness

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Email Calendar Events to: Calendar@NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com. Deadline for calendar: the 5th of the month.

4 letter from the publisher

24 plant medicine

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5 affirming naturally

23 calendar of events

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6 news brief

24 resource guide

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letter from publishers Greetings! The month of June brings Father’s Day and as one dad to another my advice is: Dads, lighten up. Yes, all dads project their own fears and hopes on their children. If Dad dreamed of becoming a first baseman for the Yankees, he’ll push Johnny into baseball, ignoring his son’s preference for woodworking. If Dad harbored hopes of being the next Hemingway, he’ll praise Mary’s poetry, and maybe skip a few of her tedious soccer games. Most of us dads, most of the time, initially take on the responsibility of fatherhood―income, protection, education―with drive and purpose. We make compromises with our pre-dad selves. The sports car gets traded in for a minivan. Playing guitar becomes a hobby, not a professional goal. We sign on at the warehouse. New dads around the country are making these changes every day, and mostly with alacrity. It’s later, when the perfect infant becomes the complaining toddler or rejecting teenager, that the vexing notion arises that another life could have been lived. This form of nostalgia―for what never came―is bitter. The word “nostalgia”, after all, comes from the Greek for “the pain of going home”. But by seeing himself project his dreams on his children, a father can also see how he’s holding onto a suspect belief that another life would have been better. With maturity, a dad can revisit his adolescent dreams; not nostalgically, but with the wisdom that comes with age. Did I really have a chance at the Yankees? Be real. Weren’t there two guys in high school alone who had more talent? Asking these questions, a father might even notice that no one in the family measures his worth in worldly achievements. A dad is best remembered in his capacity for love, kindness, forgiveness, everyday strength and friendliness. Your child may know you’re a master carpenter. But what she remembers is that day when you gently showed her the right way to hold a hammer. Until next month as always, remember to be kind and be safe. bright blessings,

Cindy & Mike Hart

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

HOUSTON EDITION PUBLISHERS

Cindy & Mike Hart

EDITOR & DESIGN Mike Hart CREATIVE

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Doyle Ward Minnie Payne Linda Sechrist Claire Villarreal Erin Thole David O’Brien SALES & MARKETING Carmen Jules Barbara Silberg WEBSITE

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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. © 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 we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

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affirming naturally

I take time for recreation and relaxation. 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 moment.This month’s affirmation can help create a better life. Our bodies, minds, and souls need play, relaxation, and rest. Find those activities that allow you to forget your day to day responsibilities, that make you laugh, and relax. Promise yourself that you will take time to feed your inner child. Here is the affirmation that I am using:

I take time for recreation and relaxation. The only thing that you are 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.

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business briefs

Claire Villarreal offers Come Home to Your Mind Meditation course online

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. Partners with KnoWEwell Collaborative Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. (NAPC) is entering into a partnership with KnoWEwell, P.B.C., and is a Founding Patron of The KnoWEwell Collaborative. KnoWEwell, a 1% for the Planet company, received the Top 50 Healthcare Companies award from the International Forum on Advancements in Healthcare. Founder and Chief Executive Officer Kimberly Whittle says, “It’s one centralized private, secure online platform to inspire and empower individuals with today’s knowledge, evidenced-based resources and collaborative ‘wholistic’ community to help them address the root causes of chronic diseases and achieve optimal health and well-being.” Whittle points out that KnoWEwell is “the missing link designed to provide people with peace of mind throughout their life journey―a collaborative with personal and professional benefits for all in the ‘wholistic’ ecosystem: individuals, families, providers and organizations. Our purpose is to improve the health of humanity and our planet.” NAPC and KnoWEwell are perfectly mission aligned, adds Whittle. “Natural Awakenings’ well-researched, practical information about the latest natural approaches to nutrition, fitness, personal growth and sustainable living played a significant role in fueling the wellness revolution. We’re grateful to collaborate with them.” NAPC Chief Executive Officer Sharon Bruckman says, “Our Natural Awakenings family of 60 publishers is excited about the new resources and opportunities this new partnership brings to our community of readers, providers and organizations. We are honored to be playing such a significant role in the launch and future growth of this incredibly sophisticated platform which will result in tremendous benefits to members.” For more information, see ad on page 2 and visit NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. ~Maya Angelou

Claire works to adapt traditional Buddhist teachings for the demands of modern life and has just opened an online meditation website offering discounts for Natural Awakenings readers. She began meditating daily in 1997 in the Theravada and Vajrayāna traditions, and her teachers include Anne Klein, PhD, Harvey Aronson, PhD, Lama Tenzin Samphel, and Kamalo Bhikkhu. She has made trips to Thailand, India, and Nepal totaling over two years to study and meditate in traditional settings in those countries, with pilgrimage to Tibet. She has spent time in retreat — both personal and group — in Asia and the US since 1999. A former Programs Director for Dawn Mountain Center for Tibetan Buddhism and former board member for Compassionate Houston, she earned her doctorate in Religious Studies from Rice University with a dissertation and publications exploring contemplative ways of knowing and how they speak to the contemporary academic study of mysticism. These days she is a member of the GenX Dharma Teachers Community, She is writing a book on the Tibetan Buddhist teachings on death and rebirth, and is creating online courses to share traditional Buddhist wisdom with a wider audience. If you are interested in practicing meditation from the comfort of your own home and in bringing your practice into your daily life you will enjoy her article on page XX. To learn more about what she offers our community and access your discount, please visit her website. Clairevillarreal.com/come-home-to-yourmind-natural-awakenings See ad page 15

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Tofu Takeaway Isoflavones Lower Risk of Heart Disease

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Observational research published in Circulation, the flagship journal of the American Heart Association, states that tofu and other foods that contain higher amounts of isoflavones are associated with a moderately lower risk of heart disease, especially for younger women and postmenopausal women not taking hormones. Researchers at Harvard Medical Schoolsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Brigham and Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital analyzed data from more than 200,000 people that participated in three health and nutrition studies; all participants were free of cancer and heart disease when the studies began. Consuming tofu, which is high in isoflavones, more than once a week was associated with an 18 percent lower risk of heart disease, compared to a 12 percent lower risk for those that ate tofu less than once per month. Tofu and whole soybeans are rich sources of isoflavones. Chickpeas, fava beans, pistachios, peanuts and other fruits and nuts are also high in isoflavones.

health tip

Boosting Vs Balancing Your Immune System by Erin Thole, CNHP

In the wake of COVID-19 everyone is talking about how to “boost”

their immune system. What does that really mean? What are we really trying to do by stocking up on vitamin C, elderberry and echinacea? The immune system is exactly that, a system, not a single entity. So there are a lot of working parts that have to be taken into consideration when trying to strengthen this complex system. The majority of your immune system, over 80% in fact, is located in your gut. So this means, the healthier your gut is the healthier your immune system is. In simplest terms, the immune system works like a teeter totter. You have one side that marks the bad guys and you have the other side that kills the bad guys. You want these to be balanced, equal marking to equal killing, however, in many people one end of the teeter totter is way up in the air and the other is driven into the ground. (As an example, this is the case for those with auto immune disorders.) All these “immune boosting” supplements have their place and really do have great benefits, but at the end of the day what we are looking to do is create balance, or homeostasis, within the body. All the echinacea in the world isn’t going to help you if your bacteria balance in the gut is off or your digestion is a mess. This is the perfect situation for food sensitivities and inflammation, which then leads to micronutrient deficiencies, which then creates a suppressed immune system.

Moreover, running yourself ragged, not getting good sleep and being over worked are all things that we know depress the immune system and create nutritional deficiencies. We also know that sugar and processed foods can drain the body of nutrients and cause inflammation, which again, depletes the immune system. So when we say we are looking to “boost” the immune system what we really need to focus on is balancing our lifestyle. Here are some ways to balance the immune system (and your whole body): t eat a colorful plate of fruits and veggies at every meal t cut sugar and processed foods t exercise t get out in the sunshine and fresh air t limit alcohol to once a week t get adequate sleep every night t practice stress reducing techniques like meditation and breath ing exercises t don’t smoke t maintain a healthy weight t laugh often t and of course…. Wash your hands Erin Thole, CNHP has been working in Functional Medicine for over 11 year. To learn more and request a freeconsultation: www. erinthole.com - thole.erin@gmail.com See ad below

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green living

Everyday Adventures Taking to Vans and RVs for Life on the Road by Sandra Yeyati

Many Americans choose to travel in recreational vehicles (RVs)

or well-equipped vans with all the comforts of home—no hotels, just the open road and a tank full of gas. Cindy Jane is a Florida naturalist, vegan advocate, accomplished artist and wife to land surveyor Kevin Georgeson. Now 50 years old, she’s had a dream since she was 18 to travel the country in a van, visiting state and national parks, hiking trails and spending quality time in nature. She envisions setting up an easel and painting in inspiring settings. “It’s about getting out of that social norm of always knowing what the next day is going to be like, doing the same thing every day. I like a little bit of the unknown, the unexpected. I want to see things. I want adventure. I want the freedom that comes with going,” she says. The couple purchased a 2018 Ford Transit van with low mileage and a little warranty left on it. Together, they are customizing it to create a comfortable home away from home to satisfy Jane’s wanderlust. Crafty and resourceful, they voraciously watch YouTube videos to learn the ins and outs of solar panels, electrical hookups, kitchen countertops, insulation and 1,000 other details that go into a successful buildout. They’re taking their time to do it right after investing thousands of dollars already. To document their progress and hopefully inspire others, they record videos on Jane’s smartphone and post them to her website (ArtfulVeganNomad.com). Val and Nick Wheatley are veteran nomads, having travelled the world for almost four years in all kinds of rides, including the 1994 Ford Bronco they drove across the U.S. for six months. Camping outdoors was challenging, and they vowed never again to travel in a vehicle without a bed. They purchased a Ford Econovan to explore New Zealand and sold it three months later when they left. In Germany, where beautiful campgrounds and free public lots with inexpensive electric and water hookups are plentiful, a rented RV was the way to go. With experience, the couple has come to prefer converted vans or smaller RVs, thanks to their fuel savings and easier maneuverability in cities and on narrow country roads. According to the Wheatleys, traveling and living in close quarters has its drawbacks. Cleaning out portable toilets and taking showers at truck stops can be challenging, but for the avid explorers, these inconveniences were always eclipsed by jaw-dropping scenery and cultural immersion in new countries. “Because we had wheels and time, we got to see some cool stuff off the beaten track that most people that were visiting for a weekend or week never see,” says Val. Offering tips, tricks, candid descriptions and inspiring photography of their many world-trotting experiences, the couple’s travel blog (WanderingWheatleys.com) tallied more than 600,000 visitors

last year. Through online advertising and affiliate programs, they earned enough money for living and travel expenses. “The world actually isn’t a scary place at all. People all over the world in every culture are friendly and welcoming,” Nick says. For those looking to connect with fellow travelers, there are numerous recreational clubs that offer base camps, programming and social opportunities. One such club is Sisters on the Fly (SistersOnTheFly.com), an all-women outdoor adventure club founded in 1999 by Maurrie Sussman and her sister Rebecca Clarke with a penchant for small, vintage trailers that are restored and embellished by their owners. With 9,000 active members and an organizer in each state, these resourceful and festive ladies hold more than 1,000 events nationwide every year, including fly fishing, guided tours, kayaking, mountain climbing, biking and more. “It’s about being outdoors and meeting amazing women. We love going into the national parks, taking back roads and visiting all the small towns,” Sussman says. Living in an RV or van full-time has become an attractive option for many people, including college kids looking for inexpensive housing or retirees on limited incomes. “I think more and more we’re seeing people who value their time more than a bunch of possessions,” says Jane. “Maybe that means working less and living more frugally, so you see a rise in minimalism and van life.” For a wealth of information on vans and RVs as full-time options, as well as indepth interviews with van lifers, visit Bob Wells’ YouTube channel CheapRVLiving. Sandra Yeyati is a freelance writer. Reach her at SandraYeyati@ gmail.com.

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Transformative Staycations Finding Respite and Adventure Close to Home by April Thompson

Staycations—sticking close to home

for new travel experiences—was a growing trend even before the COVID-19 pandemic turned it into a practical necessity for many of us. Staycations reduce costs, minimize travel time and also lower our carbon footprint by eliminating international travel. Happily, they don’t reduce the pure pleasure of finding new adventures, exploring untrammeled nature, seeing the familiar with fresh eyes and meeting people from all walks of life. All of that is close at hand, and especially when compared to foreign jaunts, the price is right. A good place to start is by checking out state and regional parks, often overlooked gems offering scenic miles of trails for hiking, biking, birding, fishing, picnicking and other activities. “Whether mountains, prairies, rivers, forests in the country or heart of the city, there is always a state park waiting to welcome you, no matter what kind of recreation you enjoy,” says Jason Clay, spokesperson with Colorado Parks and Wildlife. In Colorado parks, people can,

for example, river raft in the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area; boat, fish and hammock camp in Jackson Lake State Park; and rock climb in Eldorado Canyon. Parks can be discovered and trail maps downloaded by visiting TrailLink.com, run by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy. It provides searches for nearby trails using parameters such as distance, types of activity and wheelchair accessibility. Its smartphone TrailLink app is free to download and $30 per year for unlimited customized use. State, local and regional parks across the country offer rich educational opportunities for kids and adults alike, including naturalist-guided activities, bird and botany walks, lessons in local history, ecology and geography, and more. Several states offer free admission to all state-run parks, including Hawaii, Tennessee and Illinois. Stateby-state listings of fees and policies can be found at Tinyurl.com/StateParkPasses.

Making a Quick Getaway

Weekend forays into natural and rustic settings can be ideal escape valves for people needing a simple, quick change of venue. Camping, of course, is always an option, but for those that want to be in nature in a more comfy fashion, using “cabin” as a search word works well in websites like Airbnb.com and TripAdvisor.com. The option of glamping—or glamorous camping—offers surprisingly luxurious stays outdoors in tents, pods and domes; check out Glamping.com. Getaway.House offers woodsy outposts in 10 locations equipped with “tiny house” cabins around the country designed for quick escapes from cities. “If you were at your desk in need of an escape, you could cut out early and be there by 6 p.m.,” says Vice President of Marketing Rachel Mansfield. The private experience, with no check-in desk or communal areas, enables it to continue operating safely during the pandemic. The cabins, designed to blend in with their natural surroundings, are equipped with food for purchase, stove, books,

Kniewel now leads small group tours of Chicago, introducing locals and visitors alike to many of its little-known facets. “I’ve fallen in love with my city all over again doing these tours,” says Kniewel, a self-proclaimed history geek. She loves to take guests inside Art Deco and Beaux Arts buildings they may have passed before without realizing the gorgeous art and architecture that exists inside, such as the

radio, firewood, fire pit and Adirondack chairs, as well as a map for local hikes and adventures. “I did a getaway at a point in my life where I wanted some time alone, away from commitments, to figure out what my next chapter in life was going to be,” says Paige Conner Totaro, of Alexandria, Virginia, the founder of Unquote Travel, a web-based tour agency focusing on small group, off-the-beaten-track adventures. “You can change your environment without going very far, and that in turn can change the way you think about things. Little things like sleeping on the other side of the bed can help you shake up your brain.”

Local Attraction

Local-led excursions are another way to see our home turf through a new lens. Airbnb Experiences, offered virtually everywhere that Airbnb lists lodging, are one-of-a-kind tours and classes designed and hosted by locals with unique expertise. Experiences run the gamut from neighborhood tours on foot or bikes with athletes to museum tours led by local artists or art historians. Many include a hands-on learning component, like how to make mosaics in a community art space or cook a local delicacy from a family recipe. Similar tours and experiences can be found on TripAdvisor’s Things To Do listings. WithLocals. com, whose mission is “to break down the barriers between travelers and locals worldwide,” also offers foodie fun and off-beat adventures. Kelly Kniewel stumbled onto tour guiding after experiencing burnout in her previous career in the beverage industry. An Airbnb Experiences host,

library-turned-cultural center, Chicago Cultural Center, boasting two impressive glass domes, one designed by Tiffany Glass. Another favorite excursion is taking guests on a water taxi tour. “It’s a cheap and unique way to see Chicago. The water, both the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, is so much a part of who we are as a city.” During the limitations imposed during the COVID-19 period, Airbnb and other websites began offering experiences online, allowing people from all over the world to connect and make pastries with a Swedish baker, draw with a Mexican cartoonist, learn about apartheid from a South African or experience a day in the life of an American Olympic bobsledder.

Traveling the World Without Leaving Home

Hosting travelers can bring new meaning to a staycation, offering a rich opportunity for cross-cultural exchange without any exchange of currency. The popular CouchSurfing.com connects travelers with locals offering free use of a couch, air mattress or spare bedroom. Available in more than 200,000 cities worldwide, it has 14 million members and sponsors local language exchanges, dance classes, hikes and dinners, so there are opportunities to make new friends and have new experiences even without offering a place to sleep. (During COVID-19 restrictions, these activities were moved online.) Similar organizations that offer opportunities for local hosting (including low- or no-cost lodging) include Servas. org, established in 1949, which stresses world peace and cultural exchange, and pre-interviews potential guests and hosts to ensure safety; GlobalFreeloaders.com, a free registry for hosts and guests that do their own online screening and matching; and EvergreenClub. com, in which hosts provide a bed-andbreakfast homestay for travelers over age 50 for $20 a night. An exciting option for homeowners is HomeExchange.com, a $150-a-year service that allows people in far-flung places to switch homes, either directly or through a staggered point system so they can truly live like locals. John Fackenthal, of Rockville, Maryland, has hosted more than 100 couchsurfers from 29 countries, and loved every experience. “I had a big apartment in the heart of Washington, D.C., when I first started hosting, but lived alone and felt a little isolated. I wanted to bring back the youth hostel feel from travels in my younger days, where you’d hang out with fellow travelers and go hiking, share a meal or play cards,” he says.

A web developer, he recalls such memorable guests as a carpenter in his 60s from the Pacific Northwest that helped him with fixer-upper projects, a pair of pro volleyball players from the Czech Republic and two young women from China that prepared him a massive traditional Chinese feast “with all four burners going,” he says. “It’s restored my faith in humanity. I’ve encountered nothing but wonderful people, all with such different personalities and backgrounds.”

Be a Weekend Farmer

Agrotourism, in which working farms open the barn doors to visitors for day or overnight trips, has the added advantage of supporting local agriculture. AgritourismWorld.com and FarmStayUS.com provide listings for farm stays worldwide searchable by type, such as Christmas tree farm, vineyard, orchard, dude ranch or alpaca farm. The 40-acre Taos Goji Farm and Eco-Lodge Retreat, in Taos, New Mexico, is one such venue. “My husband and I returned to the land nine years ago after many years working as professionals in stuffy offices. The farm has been developed for our family and others who wish to be close to nature and to live off of the land,” says co-owner Elizabeth vom Dorp. The farm is open for paid guests, as well as to the volunteers known as “Wwoofers” that come through Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms to help raise goji berries, fruits, vegetables and free-range chickens. All cabins date from the early 1900s, including an old dairy barn converted into a duplex and five sheep herder cabins. The farm is surrounded by a national forest, so many guests visit to enjoy hiking, biking, fishing,

rafting and ballooning. “Families with children love to come and pick berries, collect eggs and pet the animals. We have rescue alpacas, sheep, goats, chickens and turkeys,” says vom Dorp. While the world may still be at the mercy of unfortunate circumstances this summer, travel is ultimately a state of mind. By staying open, curious and present, there are always new encounters and discoveries underfoot very close to home. Connect with Washington, D.C., freelance writer April ompson at AprilWrites.com.

wise words

Coming Home to Your Mind Research has shown that people

by Claire Villarreal Keep a gratitude journal. If you’ve never tried this wonderful and simple practice, there are lots of gratitude apps, or a simple notebook works great for jotting down three things each day you’re grateful for. If you’ve already tried this, how about a joy journal?

would rather shock themselves than sit still with their own minds – not a surprise to those of us who meditate. Why is it so difficult for us to be with ourselves? A couple of answers are obvious: because our minds are often squirming away from the discomfort of the present moment in search of something better. Because our brains are addicted to the dopamine rush of engaging with something new. But what if the real answer is that we don’t relate to our mind as our deepest home? Too often, we’re busy looking for something outside ourselves to satisfy that nagging itch for the next shiny object. Imagine what would happen if we were constantly cramming our homes with new furniture and tchotchkes the way we cram our minds with new information. We wouldn’t be able to walk in the door, let alone relax! Even in these turbulent times, we could treat our minds better, taking in what’s new and also sometimes resting in what’s familiar. We all know meditation can help us stay with our own present-moment experience, and maybe you’re already doing that. But even if you meditate, it can be difficult to

Try time blocking. If you find yourself bouncing from task to task at work and depleting your mental energy, try a system like the Pomodoro Timer for work, in which you focus on one task for 25 minutes, then take a 5 minute break. I find that just being off my phone for most of my work day saves a lot of mental energy and keeps my mind from feeling like a spinning mess!

make a lifestyle out of coming home to your mind. Here are a few tips for curating the content of your mind outside the context of meditation: Notice what media consumption fuels your soul and what drains you. If reading 15 minutes of the news makes you feel alive, great! If reading 45 minutes of the news fills you with dread, try setting a timer or listening to a podcast that summarizes the news.

Formal meditation sessions are a wonderful way to hone the contemplative skills we need to stay awake during the rest of the day, but informal practices like the ones I suggested above can help you make the lifestyle shift from being perpetually overwhelmed to knowing what to bring into the home of the mind and what to leave at the curb. For a free mini-course on meditation to help your mind settle, please visit: clairevillarreal.com.

Come Home to Your Mind An online self-paced meditation course by Claire Villarreal, PhD. focusing on bringing your practice into daily life. Special Natural Awakenings Discount ClaireVillarreal.com/come-home-to-your-mind-natural-awakenings

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SHIATSU sponsored content

Learn 4 Ways to Reduce Stress through Massage by David O’Brien, LMT: TX- MT132368

The stress response is hard on the body.

It lowers metabolism (weight issues), limits insulin function (low energy), inhibits collagen (skin issues), and weakens the immune system (getting sick). It is no surprise that people are always seeking out ways to reduce their stress. As a massage therapist, I am often asked which type of massage I would recommend for a stressed-out client. There are many options, and here are a few that stand out. 1. Swedish Massage – When you ask for “a massage,” this is what you are requesting. This is a great way to get a full-body massage during a 1-hour (or more!) session. The massage is done in zones, working muscle, tendon, and fascia. It is light or heavy and can include stretching. If you are looking for relaxation, improved circulation, and a peaceful experience, this is an excellent choice. 2. Deep Tissue Massage – This is NOT a full-body massage, nor is it heavy Swedish. This massage targets specific areas only. It involves working individual muscles to target specific problems or specific therapeutic

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goals. It tends to be lighter than heavy Swedish, which most people do not realize. A massage therapist needs significant knowledge of Kinesiology and assessment to properly offer this massage. If your pain/ discomfort/tightness is localized, then this is the massage for you. 3. Thai Massage – A combination of stretching and tissue compression, this massage improves flexibility and circulation and is sometimes called lazy or assisted yoga, as the therapist will manipulate you into various stretches while you lay back and relax. You will stay dressed during this treatment and will often lay on a mat, rather than a massage table. This massage is great for anyone that sits for long periods of time or doesn’t stretch often enough. 4. Shiatsu – Manipulation of the body’s energy circulation is the goal of this treatment. It focuses on compression and manipulation of acupuncture points. It utilizes concepts of Traditional Chinese Medicine including Yin/Yang and the natural elements to better connect physical issues with energetic and emotional blockages. If you haven’t been feeling like yourself or you just need a tune-

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up, then this is the massage for you. When getting a massage, the more you let your therapist know about any goals or issues, the better. Give them a 1-10 number for either how stressed you are or how much your shoulder hurts. And don’t be afraid to ask for their license number to make sure they are properly trained/licensed; it should be on their business card if they are legit. Remember to breathe deeply and relax during the massage to get the most out of it, and always remember to drink plenty of water after so the body can remove waste quicker and so the benefits will last longer. It can be very beneficial to get regular tune-up massages as opposed to waiting for an issue in order to keep the body in good shape. Stay relaxed! Massages by Avalon School student availible for only $40. Call today for your appointment. - Avalon School of Massage www. avalonmassageschool.com 713-333-5250 FB/IG @avalonmassageschool

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2 Take amino acid supplements. “Consum-

healing ways

POWER UP YOUR BRAIN Six Ways to Boost Blood Flow by Ronica O’Hara

ing supplements containing both L-arginine and L-citrulline are well-documented to boost the production of endothelium-derived NO,” says Ignarro. “Adding antioxidants to the amino acid mix provides added benefit by increasing NO levels.” He recommends pomegranate extract, cocoa flavonols and omega-3 supplements.

3 Move the body. Fast walking, running,

cycling, swimming, ball playing, weight lifting and yoga all help improve cranial blood flow, says Ignarro: “Physical activity stimulates the production of NO in all arteries, including those in the brain.” In one study, women over 60 that walked for 30 to 50 minutes three or four times a week increased ongoing cranial blood flow up to 15 percent. Yoga exercises like downward dog and shoulder stands also raise blood flow in the head.

4 Play music. Research using functional

magnetic resonance imaging published in Scientific Reports found that blood flow in the brain increases when people listen to music they love, whether it’s Mozart or Eminem. In a recent study, Weightless, a song written by the British group Macaroni Union along with sound therapists, reduced participants’ anxiety levels by 65 percent and physiological resting rates by 35 percent.

5 Do a chanting meditation. Kirtan Kriya,

Our brain has many well-known structures

like the amygdala that detects danger and the prefrontal cortex that enables planning, but we often take for granted the 400 miles of blood vessels that push through a liter of blood per minute, carrying in oxygen and nutrients, and porting out wastes. “Our brains are highly metabolic organs, so they require lots of nutrients and oxygen to function properly, and those can only get to our brain when we have good blood flow,” says naturopathic physician Emilie Wilson, of the Synergy Wellness Center, in Prescott, Arizona. When that blood flow is optimal, we feel energized and clear-headed; when it’s low, we feel foggy and listless. Low levels of cranial blood flow have been linked in brain imaging studies to strokes and dementia, as well as bipolar disorder, depression and suicidal tendencies. The first imperative for healthy cranial blood flow is to make sure our blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol numbers are in a healthy range. Health practitioners can help us address that, as well as the conditions linked to reduced blood flow—heart disease, hypothyroidism, diabetes, anemia, depression and smoking.

To boost brain blood flow, specific lifestyle strategies have proven to be highly effective:

1 Eat strategically, especially beets and

chocolate. Nitric oxide (NO) is made in the endothelium, the thin layer of cells that line blood vessels; it relaxes the inner muscles of those vessels, maximizing blood flow. “The continuous formation of NO in the brain is essential to life,” says prominent pharmacologist Louis Ignarro, Ph.D., who received the Nobel Prize in Science in 1998 for discovering that humans produce NO and that it lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow. He advocates passing up meat for soy and fish protein, eating antioxidant-rich produce such as pomegranate, blueberries, spinach and kale, and consuming lots of nitrate-rich food like celery and leafy greens which are converted to NO in the body. He especially recommends beets—one study reported that in juice form, it increases nitric oxide levels by 21 percent in 45 minutes—as well as dark chocolate. In a Harvard study, older people that drank two cups of hot chocolate a day for 30 days had improved blood flow to the brain and better memory.

a 12-minute daily meditation that includes chanting, finger movements and visualization, “has been researched for over 18 years and has documented benefits in increasing blood flow to the brain,” says Krystal Culler, senior Atlantic fellow with the Global Brain Health Institute, in San Francisco and Ireland. YouTube offers several versions, as does the Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation (Tinyurl.com/12MinuteYogaMeditation).

6 Consider acupuncture and craniosacral

therapy. “Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to boost blood flow, and it can also relax tense muscles in the neck and head, which can impair blood flow more than we realize,” says Wilson. She also recommends the gentle, hands-on-head approach of craniosacral therapy: “It can directly improve blood flow by removing restrictions, and it can also rebalance sympathetic and parasympathetic functions, which has beneficial effects on our nervous system and on blood flow.” Ronica O’Hara is a Denver-based health writer. Connect at OHaraRonica@gmail.com.

plant-based wellness

The Cost of Meat and Other Animal Products by Karoline Mueller, PhD, of Karlina’s Plant Kitchen

Increases in meat, dairy, and egg prices are making headlines.

Now is a good time to consider the cost of animal products, often thought absolutely necessary for survival. People accept, ignore or justify higher prices, health and life risk to workers, and contribution to climate change. Does human health really require consumption of animal products? Looking at dietary advice, the spectrum is broad, ranging from an all-meat diet, everything in moderation, to completely plant-based. Every faction cites some authority. Broad conservative scientific consensus tells us what the majority of scientists agree upon. The American Dietetic Association stated in a 2009 position paper: “. . . appropriately planned vegetarian diets, including total vegetarian or vegan diets, are healthful, nutritionally adequate, and may provide health benefits in the prevention and treatment of certain diseases. Well-planned vegetarian diets are appropriate for individuals during all stages of the life cycle, including pregnancy, lactation, infancy, childhood, and adolescence, and for athletes.” In other words, omitting animal products while including fruit, vegetables, beans (legumes), whole grains, nuts and seeds creates a health-promoting diet that benefits everyone. For many decades, studies have shown that disease progression can be stopped and often even reversed. Response to a diet change from the Standard American to a wholefoods plant-based diet is so rapid that doctors often need to lower prescription dosage within days to avoid over-medication. If this healthy way to eat is so great then why isn’t it common knowledge? Because ingrained preferences about what is the “norm” or “beneficial” need to be overcome. Medical doctors often have no more nutrition knowledge than the average person. Additionally, we are numbed to the constant high burden of chronic diseases, hospitalizations and early death caused by heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. Speaking of cost, in 2019, U.S. health expenditure reached nearly 18% of the GDP. Unfortunately, the system is set up for disease management instead of tackling all major underlying causes including food. Enter the Covid-19 pandemic. Outcome worsens significantly when those infected already suffer from a comorbidity. The most common conditions are high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes. The recent appearance of the pandemic means that we don’t have a study yet to prove that reversing these diseases will avoid the most severe outcome to Covid-19. But I think that making the switch to a plantbased diet will, at the very least, reduce the cost and the pain associated with chronic diseases. Under the looming threat of Covid-19, we still have the power to proactively make changes to benefit us.

Plant-Based Wellness Section sponsored by CBD Depot of Texas

Sometimes caring for others increases my motivation for action. One of the worst jobs I can imagine is in a slaughterhouse or meat packing plant. Stated on www.osha.gov, workers are exposed: “. . . to high noise levels, dangerous equipment, slippery floors, musculoskeletal disorders, hazardous chemicals . . . [, and] biological hazards associated with handling live animals or exposures to feces and blood which can increase their risk for many diseases.” For example in the poultry industry, the speed of the processing line forces workers to repeat the same motions on more than 2,000 chickens per hour. Crowded working conditions now include a heightened risk of contracting Covid-19 as well as having a higher severity of the disease. I think the argument “any job is better than none” falls dreadfully short when worker turnover in this industry is about 100% a year and workers often leave with lifelong injuries. Lastly, it’s important to mention the environmental cost of animal agriculture. Animals require food. Roughly 90% of consumed calories are needed for living and 10% are stored in the body. It’s more efficient to feed humans directly than to feed animals for slaughter and human consumption. Legumes, grains, seeds, nuts, and starchy vegetables can cover all human calorie, protein, and nutrient requirements. Cutting out the “middle cow” reduces land and water usage, fertilizers, pesticides, water run-off, air and water pollution, and production of greenhouse gases. It is difficult to establish an absolute number for the real cost of animal husbandry yet a better world is possible through changing our long-held attitudes. To help you make the transition to a healthier diet, visit www.pcrm.org and find lifestyle medicine professionals locally. Karoline obtained a PhD in Chemistry at the University of Houston. During that time her struggle with obesity and depression worsened. In 2011, she learned about Dr. McDougall and Dr. Ornish and changed her diet to dominantly whole-foods plant-based. This was a turning point in her life and she wanted to share her new knowledge. She became a Food For Life instructor, trained by the Physicians Committee to deliver nutrition and cooking classes. Before Covid-19, she enjoyed teaching classes at LifestyleDocs, Drs B. and M. Chawla’s clinic. Now her courses are online. facebook.com/karlinasplantkitchen/ pcrm.org/good-nutrition/plant-based-diets/ffl/instructors/ karoline-mueller embeelifestyledocs.com/food-for-life-cooking-class/

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conscious eating

always keep coconut milk and unsweetened curry paste on hand to whip up a red Thai curry, my favorite 15-minute dinner. Simply add fresh or frozen vegetables and protein of choice and you have a satisfying, flavorful meal that is faster than delivery.” Waddle’s healthy comfort foods include nuts of different flavors, dried fruits and baked Brussels sprouts with nitrite-free bacon, black pepper and a sprinkle of nutmeg. “The food you consider comfort food is comforting because it’s familiar,” she says. “When you start eating healthier food more often, it will become comfort food. Just keep trying new things.”

Keep it Simple

Feeding Happiness Lifting Moods with Feel-Good Foods by Marlaina Donato

Whether it’s a pandemic, a breakup or

a busy day with the kids, heading to the kitchen for a carb fix or a pint of ice cream is a common knee-jerk response to stress. It’s easy to get caught in a whirlpool of poor eating when our bodies need nutritional support more than ever. Sustained or chronic stress can reduce levels of dopamine and serotonin— neurotransmitters linked to feelings of both satiety and happiness. “When serotonin levels are normal, it leads to both emotional satisfaction and a sense of fullness after a meal,” says Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach Maria Marlowe, in New York City and Dubai. “Conversely, when serotonin levels are low, it can lead to depression and a tendency to reach for sweet and starchy foods.”

Avoiding Extremes

Stress-eating sparks only temporary physical and emotional fulfillment. “When your brain is in need of energy, it can mimic the symptoms of depression and anxiety,” notes Tara Waddle, holistic life coach at The Center of Balance, in Greeley, Colorado. “Finding healthier substitutes that are less processed can make a huge impact.” Experts agree that concentrating

on weight loss or super-strict diets during times of adversity might do more harm than good. “Focusing on the need to lose weight during crisis will only do two things—make you feel guilty if you’re not eating what you think you’re supposed to and potentially make you eat more out of guilt,” says Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Jennifer Neily, in Dallas. Opting for healthier versions of favorite comfort foods is a doable compromise that can prevent endorphins from plummeting after the usual temporary spike. “With the right ingredients and recipes, we can satisfy our cravings for sweet, salt, creamy or crunchy with healthier upgrades of our favorite junk foods,” says Marlowe.

The kitchen can be our greatest ally during any life-storm, but having a stress-free strategy is key, especially paying attention to emotional states. “Ask yourself, ‘Is it head hunger or belly hunger? Above the neck or below the neck?’ If it’s the latter and that’s truly what is desired, don’t deny yourself, but choose with conscious understanding. Savor the flavor,” says Neily. Marlowe recommends easy meal planning and maintaining an eating schedule. “This helps remove some of the stress and decision fatigue that comes with figuring out what to eat in the moment, especially with random ingredients in the fridge.” Food shopping can be an instant junk food trap. Waddle’s approach is a sure way to outsmart impulse buying based on habit. She says,“Start with the produce department first. This fills your cart with fresh foods and your cart will be full by the time you get to the snack aisle.” Self-compassion can be one of the most important, yet overlooked considerations. “Regardless of what you choose to eat, be gentle with yourself,” notes Waddle. “The guilt of eating poorly is more damaging than the food.” Marlaina Donato is an author and a composer. Connect at AutumnEmbersMusic.com.

Friendly Fare

Eating to stay healthy during hard times can tickle the taste buds without a lot of invested time. Marlowe’s go-to favorites like homemade banana ice cream or chocolate truffles not only take minutes to prepare, but fortify the brain. For must-have salty favorites, she suggests opting for snack foods seasoned with unrefined or pink Himalayan salt, fresh guacamole, salsa, olives or pickles. Filling a seaweed sushi wrap with avocado can be a satisfying and easy snack. For easy-exotic, Marlowe says, “I

Sweet Recipes for Healthy Snacking Banana Ice Cream 2 overripe bananas ¼ tsp vanilla extract Add-Ins: choose as many as desired 2-3 tsp cacao powder 1 Tbsp almond butter 2-3 tsp carob powder 3-4 pitted dates ¼ tsp cinnamon 1 cup frozen strawberries 6 mint leaves 1 Tbsp coconut flakes (or coconut butter or shredded coconut) 1 Tbsp ginger 1 Tbsp almond butter or almonds ½-inch peeled ginger piece

Five-Minute Chocolate Truffles Truffle

3 Tbsp cacao powder 1½ cups dates, pitted 3 Tbsp shredded coconut, unsweetened Toppings (choose a few) Cacao nibs Cacao powder Sesame seeds Shredded coconut Pistachios, crushed Walnuts, crushed Acai powder Goji powder Maqui powder Pomegranate powder

Peel bananas, break in half and put in a zip-top freezer bag. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight. Place all ingredients (banana base plus the add-in ingredients of choice) into a high-speed blender such as a Vitamix, and blend on high until soft-serve ice cream consistency is reached, which should be in about 30 to 60 seconds. Taste to determine whether any more add-ins are needed and re-blend if desired. Spoon out and serve. Source: Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach Maria Marlowe

Add cacao powder, dates and coconut to a blender. (A bullet blender works well.) Blend until a paste is formed, which should only take a few seconds. Roll about a tablespoon or so of paste into a ball. Repeat. Choose a topping, sprinkle it onto parchment paper and roll date ball in it to coat.

Fast, Healthy Pasta Gluten-free bean and legume-based pastas provide more fiber and protein compared to traditional pasta, points out Marlowe. She suggests placing a steamer basket full of chopped veggies like broccoli, cauliflower and squash over boiling pasta water for a quick pasta primavera. Add some garlic sautéed in olive oil and a little salt and pepper.

Feel-Good Foods

Serotonin boosters for better mood and digestive harmony:

kiwi, bananas, pineapple, kiwi, plums, all types of berries, tomatoes, raw cacao nibs, 90 percent dark chocolate, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, butternuts (related to walnuts), almonds, eggs, beans, oats, protein-rich foods, sea vegetables, avocados, Swiss chard, beets, green tea and spices like turmeric.

Dopamine boosters for better mood and memory, and warding off neurodegenerative diseases: artichokes, ripe bananas, tahini, wheat germ, almond butter, leafy greens, lentils, chickpeas, black beans, papaya, red beets, apples, watermelon, blueberries and prunes.

Natural Awakenings recommends using organic, non-GMO (genetically modified) and non-bromated ingredients whenever possible.

calendar of events June 2020 SATURDAY JUNE 6TH Naturopatic Reiki 1. 9am Free introductory class in this hands-off energy work.. alifeofpeace.org Online Guided Meditation 9 am Introduction to Mindfulness Meditation, theory and practice. Upcoming guided meditation sessions will be online. lifestyledocs.com Virtual Food For Life Cooking & Nutrition Class 12 pm Food for Life (FFL) is an award-winning nutrition education and cooking class program that provides an innovative approach to diet-related chronic diseases. lifestyledocs.com

sunday

monday Vegan World Radio. 7:00 pm. Hosted by VWR Collective. Telling the story of the vegan revolution that’s saving the animals, the planet and our health. KPFC: Community Radio 90.1 FM. kpft. org

THURSDAY JUNE 7th Online Vegan Potluck 1pm Join Doctors Bandana and Munish Chawla for their monthly virtual vegan potluck. Bring a vegan dish. Enjoy the food and conversation. Visit the website for more information and to register. lifestyledocs.com

Naturopathic Reiki Self-Treatment Online Circle 7pm, 2nd Tuesday. Naturopathic Reiki is a subtle vibration healing therapy that gently promotes balance in body, mind, and spirit. FREE alifeofpeace.org/reiki-certification

wednesday

SATURDAY JUNE 13th Virtual Walk With a Doc 9 am. What better way to start your weekend than on your feet making strides to help your heart and improving your general health to live longer! Visit the website for more information and to register. lifestyledocs. com

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/

Virtual Food For Life Cooking & Nutrition Class 12 pm. Food for Life (FFL) is an award-winning nutrition education and cooking class program that provides an innovative approach to diet-related chronic diseases. lifestyledocs.com

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

SATURDAY JUNE 20th Online Guided Meditation 9 am Introduction to Mindfulness Meditation, theory and practice. Upcoming guided meditation sessions will be online. lifestyledocs.com

People of Earth. 7:00 pm. Hosted by Jacquelyn Battise. A program created to provide Native American and non-Native people with timely news and information about culture, news and realities. KPFC: Community Radio 90.1 FM. kpft.org

SUNDAY JUNE 28th

How You Can Be Empowered to Heal the World Today 12:30-2 pm. The Climate Action Team of the First UU Church of Houston hosts Dr. Sailesh Rao via Zoom for a presentation on “How You Can Be Empowered to Heal The Earth Today”. Participants will also have the opportunity to interact with Dr. Rao during a live Q&A session. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/how-youcan-be-a-climate-healer-by-dr-sailesh-rao-tickets-106178356322

friday

life coach - : a partner/champion for your full potential helping with clarity, setting and reaching goals or overcoming challenges.

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ef Rec over y

Problem Solving • Self-Confidence Creativity • Sports Performance Weight Loss • Smoking AND MORE!

First Presbyterian Church of Houston 10:45 am. Sunday Worship Livestream. https://fpchouston.org/live/ Christ the King Lutheran Church 10:50 am Sunday Worship Livestream. https://facebook. com/ctkelc Fairbanks United Methodist Church 10:50 am Sunday Worship Livestream. https://www.facebook.com/believebelongbecomebelove/ 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/ Dawn Mountain Center for Tibetan Buddhism 12 noon. Sunday Meditation & Dharma Talk. https://www.youtube.com/user/dawnmountain Ongo Workshop 1pm June 7-Aug. 15. Join Susan Wildin MD, CPC, for an opportunity to practice Nonviolent Communication at home in community with others by Catherine Cadden and Jesse Wiens. http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/ event?oeidk=a07egz9k78qd19a8143&llr=hrs9hgeab

Whole Mother. 7:30 pm. Hosted by Pat Jones. A show that discusses the political and practical aspects of being a mother today. KPFC: Community Radio 90.1 FM. kpft.org

hin oac Life C

Hypnosis is a normal and natural state of relaxation that can help with:

First Spiritualist Church of Houston 10:30 am Sunday Service Livestream. https://www.facebook.com/FirstSpiritualistChurchofHouston/

Life is Short. Enjoy Your Life!

Life Coaching gets you motivated! Motivational Hypnosis

First Unitarian Universalist Church 10:30 am Sunday Morning Worship Livestream. https:// firstuu.org/

ISKCON 5 pm Sunday Feast Class Livestream https://www.mayapur.tv/

Brith Shalom 6:15 pm Shabbat Online https:// www.brithshalom.org

Relationships • Family • Love • Success Financial • Career • Goals • Happiness Intuition • Life’s Purpose

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

tuesday

MONDAY JUNE 8TH Avalon School of Massage 10am Summer Online sessions begin. avalonmassageschool.com/

St Luke’s United Methodist Church 8:30, 9:45 & 11 am Online Worship. https://www.stlukesmethodist.org/special-livestream/

ri Mo •G s i tivati s onal Hypno

If not now...WHEN? For more information Contact Doyle today!

(832) 628-4113 Doyle@BlissfulQuests.com Visit BlissfulQuests.com for more info 23

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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 mindbody medicine. Follow him on Facebook and call him today for a FREE phone consultation. See

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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. See ad on page 5 & 6

CBD

Green Compass Global | CBD Leslie Shatto - Independent Advocate (832)791-2772 www.NaturalWellnessWithCBD.com Excellent Line for Alternative Health Professionals... NEW Organic Hemp-CBD Company expanding in Texas (and across the US)- Green Compass Global-Advocate Opportunity, NO Inventory Requirement, Advocate Websites - Direct Ships to Customers, Excellent Unilevel COMP Plan. Retail & Preferred Customer Pricing. 500-2500mg Full Spectrum & Isolate Formulas, Topical CBD Creams, Pain Patches, Bath Products, More! Ground Floor Advocate Opportunity. I have 30 years in the Direct Sales Industry, live in the Houston area, and would love to work with You! Please call me for more information... Check out my Facebook Group: CBD-Is It For Me? and Join the Green Compass Movement!

CHIROPRACTIC HEALTHPRO CHIROPRACTIC & ACUPUNCTURE

4101 Greenbriar Dr. Suite 135, 77098 281-506-0105 9720 Cypresswood Drive, Suite 130, 77070 281-809-0100 HealthProChiro.com HealthPro’s dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to our patients. We provide a variety of treatment. Dr. Alayna Pagnani-Gendron focuses on woman’s health and paediatrics. Visit our website or call to schedule an appointment.

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 21

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!

See ad on page 13

HOLISTIC HEALTH PRIMARY CARE

JULY

THE FOOD CONNECTION ISSUE

Coming

Beyond Factory Farming plus: Gut Health

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 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.

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-fits-all 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 9

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!

INDIVIDUAL NUTRITIONAL PROTOCOLS LINDA ISAACS, MD 2500 W. William Cannon Dr., Suite 603 Austin, TX 78745 737-208-0831 DrLindaI.com 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.

Call today to schedule an appointment.

HYPNOSIS CLAUDIA AUTRY, HYPNOTIST (by appointment only) 281-849-4610 cautry@gmail.com claudiaautry.com

Want to stop smoking or lose weight? Looking for ways to relax or increase the joy in your life? Hypnosis can help you. Call TODAY to book your appointment. Let’s form a partnership for your growth!

HYPERBARIC OXYGEN HBOT AMERICA

LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE 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!

4544 Post Oak Place Dr, Suite 170 Houston TX 77027 832-986-5144 Info@HBOTAmerica.com hbotamerica.com HBOT America is Houston’s top recovery facility. HBOT is the breathing in of higher amounts of oxygen in a pressurized chamber. Whether its ADD/ADHD, sports injury, autism, diabetes, PTSD, migraine, Cancer, TBI’s, autoimmune disorders, or stroke we can help! Call to schedule your appointment today!

Now OPEN by appointment me only!

MEDITATION

MEDICAL CLINIC EmBee Lifestyle Docs

Houston’s first Holistic Lifestyle Medicine Clinic Bandana Chawla, MD & Munish Chawla, MD 4500 Bissonnet, Suite 355 Bellaire, TX 77401 We are board certified Internal Medicine and Lifestyle Medicine physicians committed to providing holistic care and addressing the root cause of disease. Personalized plan to empower you to treat and reverse many chronic medical conditions including diabetes, obesity and auto-immune diseases. Medicare and most Insurance plans accepted. Call 713 592 8900 or visit our website embeelifestyledocs.com

Reversing Medical Disease Clinic Dr. Mary A. Washington, MD 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, MD has over two decades of experience as a kidney specialist. Let her design a custom diet and exercise plan just for you. Dr. Washington doesn’t just tell you, she shows you and motivates you to make the changes you need to make. Visit her website TODAY for more information about her programs and events or to schedule your first appointment. See ad on page 6

12129 Bellaire Blvd., Houston 77072 281-568-1568 • zen@cthouston.org cthouston.org Chan/Zen Meditation Classes, guided by Ordained Zen Masters of Chung Tai Chan Monastery Currently, due to corona virus outbreak. there are no events or classes scheduled. Check the web site (event calendar) for the most current information. See ad on page 4

Claire Villarreal: Meditation Instruction for Transformation

A Life Of Peace Wellness Education Institute Akua Gray - Naturopath 11201 Richmond Avenue, Suite A Houston, Texas 77082 832-303-3277 alifeofpeace.org drakuagray.com A Life Of Peace is a promise of nature, let’s work together to learn, live and teach the ways of wellness. Dr. Akua Gray, ND, a certified traditional Doctor of Naturopathy offering classes in wellness education. Check out our events in this month’s Natural Awakenings calendar.

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 with a discount for Natural Awakenings readers is available at clairevillarreal.com/come-home-to-your-mindnatural-awakenings 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 15

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

NATURAL HORMONES DR. FISHER ROAD 2 WELLNESS

MEDICAL INTUITIVE INTEGRATIVE THERAPIES FOR NATURAL HEALING & WELLNESS LIN WEISS MH, CYT HOLISTIC HEALER MEDICAL/SPIRITUAL INTUITIVE MASTER TEACHER Houston, Texas 77025 713.858.8595 linweiss@earthlink.net conscioushealingnow.com

Dr. LaTronica Fisher, DNP, ANP, GNP, RN 4544 Post Oak Place Dr. STE #254 Houston, Texas 77027 DrFisherRoad2Wellness.com 713 520-8188 Services:

Through her WHOLE-istic approach, Lin weaves inspired wisdom with proven healing traditions for integrating mind/body & soul. ALL NATURAL, ALL THE TIME. Call Lin today to find out if she can help you.

CHUNG TAI ZEN CENTER OF HOUSTON

NATUROPATH

nHormone Rejuvenation nVaginal Dryness nUrinary Incontinence nLow Libido nErectile Dysfution nLow Stamina nWeight-Loss nSexual Dysfunction(men & women) nHair Restoration nNatural Face Lift

Take conTrol of your own healTh wiTh an aT-home TesT.

Visit the website for more information. Call today to schedule a consultation

Houston NaturalAwakenings-Houston.com

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20% OFF EVERYTHING Use Code NAHOUSTON20 at cart. This ad contains affiliate codes to products. Natural Awakenings may receive a commission for purchases made through these codes.

ORAL CARE ORATURE

2115 FM 1960 East, Suite #9 Humble, TX 77338 832-633-1328 oratrue.com For fresher breath, whiter, smoother teeth and healthier gums, try the NEW Oratrue bamboo toothbrush, oil pulling product or teeth whitening system. Created by a local Texas dentist, Oratrue not only helps you to have superior oral health but also helps save the environment. Unlike plastic, bamboo is renewable and compostable. Oratue products can be found at Herbal Connection in Conroe or may be ordered online. Visit our website TODAY and start on the path to better oral health naturally!

ORGANIC RESORT & SPA DEER LAKE LODGE AND SPA 10500 Deer Lake Lode Rd. Montgomery TX77316 936-647-1383 deerlakelodge.com

Can’t lose weight? Feeling Sluggish? Let us help undo the damage from over-consumption and poor food choices. All natural, organic, resort and spa. Immerse yourself in personal attention from our staff. Call of visit our website to book your stay today!

PAIN RELIEF 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 andjoint 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? Use Aunt Alberta’s Pain Relief Cream! Get relief today! Great buy, get a 4oz jar for $15! See website for other options. See what people say about Aunt Alberta’s Remedy and Purchase Now on our website. albertaspainrelief.com.

SELF-HEALING Ching Chi Institute

Life energy education and research Kun Wu, Ph. D. Integral chi healer Chi H Wu, L. Acupuncturist 9894 Bissonnet, Suite 292 Houston TX 77036 832-654-2885 www.chingchiinstitute.com The program of integral chi healing is based on the forCHING mulae: Innate intelligence CHI + Energy = Health i.e. you are healthy if energy is available in the body. At the early stage of the healing INSTITUTE process, the energy is provided by the healer via Acupuncture/Herb, energy healing and psychology. The major focus of the institute to teach clients the principles and techniques of self-healing to generate its own energy for the final healing. The content of the teaching is covered in a program called Energy Realization Program. The final goal is to realize energy. Once the clients realize energy, they would conserve energy and self-heal automatically. They can also discern minor health problems and take care of them energetically before they become major illnesses. Please call for a free consultation if you want to know more about the integral chi healing.

SHAMANISM Shaman Spirits

Galveston, TX 4 0 9-7 6 2 - 6 0 2 7 anthony@shamanspirits.net ShamanSpirits.net “Shamanism provides personal and spiritual healing with ancient, elegant and time tested methods. Shamanic healing opens new pathways for personal growth and spiritual awareness. If you’re looking for a way to connect with spirit without dogma, shamanism offers methods to access your healing spirits for transformation, guidance and teachings for a better way of living filled with love and compassion. Contact me at 409-762-6027 for more information.”

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.

FIRST SPIRITUALIST CHURCH OF HOUSTON 2115 Turner Dr. Houston, Texas 7093 713-695-2550 firstspiritualistchurchofhouston.org

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

THERMOGRAPHY Thermal Imaging Services

24550 Kingsland Blvd. Katy, TX 77494 713-621-4406 info@thermalimagingtexas.com thermalimagingtexas.com Thermography views what cannot be seen by the naked eye using a high definition infrared camera. It senses temperature patterns and changes which provide information for evaluation. Offering Full Body, Health with abdominal and Breast Study at our Katy location as well as limited dates in our satellite offices. Visit us online at thermalimagingtexas.com or phone us at 713-621-4406 See ad on page 8

JULY

THE FOOD CONNECTION ISSUE

Coming Next Month

Gut Health

plus: Beyond Factory Farming

Natural Awakenings Houston June 2020

Articles inside

Feeding Happiness

Learn 4 Ways to Reduce Stress Through Massage

The Cost of Meat

Power Up Your Brain

Transformational Staycations

Everyday Adventures

Contents