April 2024 Natural Awakenings Gulf Coast AL/MS

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

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2024 Editorial Calendar

January | Health & Wellness

February | Heart-Healthy Lifestyle

March | Food & Nutrition

April | Eco-Travel

Distribution Veronica Miller May |

September | Emotional Healing

October | Whole Body Alignment

November | Grateful Aging

December | Reconnect & Rejuvenate

Greetings Friends,

Welcome to springtime on God’s beautiful green and blue Gulf Coast of Alabama and Mississippi. With mild temperatures and azure skies, nature beckons us to embrace its beauty as we transition from winter into spring. This month, our focus in Natural Awakenings is on eco-travel and sustainable living, offering insights and tips for those eager to delve into these areas of interest.

Start your journey with the April Eco-Tip, the Heal-Our-World Checklist. This comprehensive list serves as a vital reminder of our responsibility towards our planet’s well-being. As alarming statistics predict the depletion of Earth’s topsoil by 2050, let’s take proactive steps together.

Take a glance at page 15 to gauge your current eco-efforts and celebrate your achievements. Consider incorporating a few more sustainable practices into your routine, such as planting a produce garden, embracing meatless meals and opting for reusable water bottles over singleuse plastics, PLEASE. Small changes can yield significant benefits for both our planet and personal health.

Turning to health and wellness, for those managing diabetes, see page 10 for a compelling Health Brief with information that can potentially alter the course of the disease. Explore a much heralded approach by Daniel J. Cox, Ph.D., from UVA Health, emphasizing managing diabetes through informed dietary choices and exercise to control blood sugar levels.

As a Functional Medicine Health Coach, I have been working with clients to manage diabetes and other illnesses holistically since 2020. It’s not new! The Functional Medicine Institute, founded by Jeffrey Bland, has focused on a similar approach since the early 1990s. Being deeply invested in functional medicine and nutritional wellness, I’ve witnessed remarkable transformations with my clients. Last year, after a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes, one of my clients embarked on a journey to lower A1C levels, committing to a regimen of ZERO SUGAR, whole foods, exercise and holistic practices. He saw remarkable progress going from 7.5 A1C to 5.6, underscoring the profound impact of nutrition and a holistic lifestyle on our collective well-being.

In 400 B.C. Hippocrates famously said, “Let food by thy medicine, let medicine by thy food!” Educating people on how good nutritional food can be medicine for your body has become my passion. If you’re eager to deepen your understanding of healing through food, mark your calendars for our upcoming workshop, EAT-COOK-LIVE, on June 4 (postponed from March) at Jubilee Suites in Fairhope. Join us for an interactive session led by local healthy cooking chef Kristin Alpine and me. Together, let’s empower ourselves with the knowledge to nourish our bodies and transform our health.

All the best,

NARRATED BY MICHAEL BUBLÉ

"Like so many families, I have been deeply affected by Alzheimer's, so I was thrilled to become a part of this film when I realized that there's hope, and it's not just a death sentence."

- Michael Bublé

CORRECTION: Last month’s editorial contained an incorrect phone number for Energy Model of Therapeutic Change. We apologize for any inconvenience, and the corrected brief is reprinted below.

Falling In Love with Your Authentic Self

Mary Beth Svatek’s 5-yearold granddaughter, Ruthie, recently stopped eating her homemade lunches at preschool. When Ruthie’s mom, Nejla, questioned this, Ruthie explained that her classmates said, “Tell your mom to pack more snacks. Your lunches are boring!” Mortified by their criticism, Ruthie didn’t want the other kids to see her eating fresh fruit and vegetables, cheese, yogurt and homemade, gluten-free buttered rolls. So, she’d go hungry until the ride home.

Later, Nejla offered Ruthie a pickle, one of her favorite snacks, and Ruthie informed her that she no longer eats them because Sara says pickles are disgusting. Nejla responded, “Do you like pickles?” The answer was a resounding yes. “Why would you give up a food that you love just because Sara doesn’t like it?” Ruthie sat quietly. Nejla again offered her a pickle and Ruthie happily accepted and devoured two pickles.

Nejla thought she had taught Ruthie self-confidence during her first five years, but realized the importance of revisiting this each time her child enters a new environment or phase of life.

Sadly, many people grow up without ever knowing themselves. Perhaps they were trained from birth to be a chameleon, to please the crowd or the adults in their lives never realized their children had hidden their own attributes buckling under peer pressure.

“My favorite part of being a Life Coach and Hypnotherapist is enabling someone to become their true self. As they step into their own shoes and release the superficial people and things that have held them hostage, the natural manifestation calls forward their unique gifts. Even better, is watching them fall in love with their authentic self; that person who was there all along, waiting to be authentically awesome,” says Mary Beth Svatek, owner of The Energy Model of Therapeutic Change.

For more information about The Energy Model of Therapeutic Change call 251-300-9912 or follow on Facebook. See ad, page 27. luboffke/DepositPhotos.com

Healthy Café and Juicery Offers

Clean Eating on the Eastern Shore

Press & Co. offers healthy and delicious dining in a vibrant setting. Located in Daphne, Alabama, it’s a welcoming haven that has an intentional menu filled with nutritious breakfast, lunch, coffee and cold pressed juice options.

Founded by Kimberly Cox, Press & Co. was the result of her personal health journey with nutrition and a passion to discover unique venues that generated positive energy to fuel her spirit.

Cox's inspiration for a healthy café and juicery stems from her traveling frustrations, as she often found options to eat clean in larger cities while local choices were limited. Determined to make a change for her community, she created a space to offer the same healthy fare found in bigger cities.

“When the calling came to me years ago to create a place full of positive energy that would both inspire and support people on their quest to better health, I had high hopes that others would share my passion, but I’ve honestly been blown away by the support of this community,” says Cox. “I’m so humbled by and thankful for this experience.”

Located in the Eastern Shore of Baldwin County, Press & Co. has become the healthy hotspot for the ever-increasing flow of tourists discovering the magic of the area. The decor and presentation make every visit Instagram-worthy.

The ethos of Press & Co. is to provide the community with wholesome, nourishing options that are typically only found in larger markets. Press & Co. aims to cater to everyone’s needs and elevate the dining experience.

For more information: PressNCo.com.

711 Belrose Ave., Daphne, Alabama. See ad, page 21.

Empowering Individuals through Business and Corporate Wellness Workshops

In 2022 Morgan Tyner was a burned out, numb and disconnected entrepreneur. She hustled, never fully stopped and never gave her body space to process.

“It was scary and painful,” shares Tyner. “I had no idea how disassociated from my body I’d become. I wasn’t the only entrepreneur who felt this way, but no one was talking about it. I suppressed the sensations and emotions.”

Later that year, Tyner came across a reel posted by a mentor and remembers feeling peace and joy as her mentor helped a client gain permission to feel, reconnect and process. “Witnessing this experience of ‘space holding’ lit me up inside,” says Tyner.

Her curiosity was piqued for SomatIQ Breathwork; which is a transformative wellness practice that empowers individuals to clear mental and emotional blockages leading to enhanced clarity, wellness and more harmonious alignment to one's personal wellness and purpose.

“Is there anything in your life sparking your curiosity? Is there something you feel in your gut is a full-body yes?” asks Tyner. “We need to lean into those gut feelings.”

So far in 2024, Tyner has guided over 100 young professionals through a SomatIQ Breathwork Daily Practice at the 2024 ESCC Young Professionals Summit. She was also a vendor at the first annual Wellhope Festival where she also held a SomatIQ Breathwork session.

She will continue to offer virtual or in-person small business and corporate wellness workshops and sessions along with in-person group sessions at local venues to lead the process that provides her clients safe transformation to feel lighter, more focused and energized.

“I feel this is the direction which will best empower, serve and reconnect the community,” adds Tyner.

Morgan Tyner at somatic@morgantyner.com or DM on Instagram @morganbtyner. See ad, this page.

Morgan

Earth Day Mobile Bay 2024

Earth Day Mobile Bay (EDMB) was initiated 34 years ago and is a celebration of the Earth for the people living around this incredibly diverse, beautiful, ecologically rich and fragile Gulf Coast Bay area. Once again, this year, attendees will be fortunate to celebrate Earth Day in what is one of the most enjoyable settings in the Gulf Coast states: Fairhope Pier Park. Exhibits will sprawl around the beautiful walking park with a sound stage at one end and a pier extending into Mobile Bay at the other end. The event will be held on Saturday, April 20, from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. and admission is free for all.

car organization, health food stores and a reptile farm exhibit with live reptiles and this year the list continues to grow.

EDMB seeks to promote civic participation and develop a sense of environmental responsibility among all citizens, as well as expand the definition of "environment" to include all issues that affect our health, our communities and our environment, such as air and water pollution and environmental health issues on the Gulf Coast and sees it as an effective vehicle for promoting a healthy, sustainable planet.

Perfect weather along with dynamic and informative exhibits has always led to a large number of happy attendees in years past. Add to the mix the Earth-class entertainment including Grayson Capps Band, NUE Bicycle, Swamp Water Symphony and Grits-N-Greens that will all perform at EDMB 2024 and there are even more reasons to make it a day.

From the experts tending the exhibits, visitors can receive the latest information as exhibitors are happy to share notes and news with attendees and their counterparts while lounging under the trees in the bay breeze. In past years, exhibits have included the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Mobile Bay Keeper, Sierra Club, 5 Rivers, a contingent of cars with their owners from the Alabama electric

Come to EDMB 2024 as a participant, a volunteer or simply a visitor. While the event is free for attendees, optional donations may be made to supporters and exhibitors.

Earth Day Mobile Bay is a nonprofit organization focused on the production of the Earth Day celebration, with the Sierra Club and the City of Fairhope being primary sponsors. It is run solely by volunteers and works with partner organizations to provide opportunities for all interested citizens to become active at a local level to voice concerns about the environment.

Location: Fairhope Pier Park. See EarthDayMobileBay.org for more information. Email info@earthdaymobilebay.org or call 251-9908662 with questions. See ad, page 3.

Treating Diabetes With Healthy Food and Exercise

A radical new approach to managing Type 2 diabetes developed by Daniel J. Cox, Ph.D., from UVA Health, has received $3.5 million in funding from the National Institutes of Health for a largescale clinical trial. The approach focuses on educating individuals about making wise dietary and exercise choices to control blood sugar and potentially alter the course of the disease. Rather than prioritizing weight loss or medication, it aims to reduce post-meal blood glucose levels, which are linked to cardiovascular risk and high levels of AIC, a marker of blood sugar over time.

Known as Glucose Everyday Matters (GEM), the approach combines educated food and drink selections with physical activity to prevent blood sugar spikes and hasten recovery if they occur. A small, initial trial involving 17 recently diagnosed adults with Type 2 diabetes showed promise, with 67 percent achieving remission after three months, and only one participant requiring medication. This trial was the first testing of self-administration instead of face-to-face delivery by medical providers.

This research offers promising hope for managing Type 2 diabetes through lifestyle interventions, providing patients with new options for controlling and potentially achieving remission from the disease. Cox’s personal success with the approach, maintaining consistently low A1C levels without medication for the past 13 years, further supports its potential.

Treating Anxiety With Mindfulness

According to a randomized clinical trial published in JAMA Psychiatry, mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) has been found to be a well-tolerated treatment option that can be as effective as commonly prescribed anxiety medications. The study involved 276 adults with diagnosed anxiety disorders that were randomly assigned to either an eight-week MBSR course or treatment with escitalopram, a first-line anxiety medication. Anxiety levels were assessed using the Clinical Global Impression of Severity scale (CGI-S).

At the end of the study, both the MBSR and escitalopram groups experienced a reduction in their mean CGI-S score, with no significant difference between the two groups. MBSR was well-tolerated, with no dropouts due to adverse events, whereas a higher percentage of participants in the escitalopram group reported adverse events. The results demonstrated that MBSR was not inferior to escitalopram in reducing anxiety symptoms.

An estimated 301 million people worldwide are affected by anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety, social anxiety, panic and agoraphobia, causing significant distress, impaired functioning and elevated risk of suicide.

Vchal / CanvaPro

Peopleimage /

New Way to Diagnose Autism

According to a 2023 study by Yale scientists published in the journal Nature Neuroscience, two distinct neurodevelopmental abnormalities that arise shortly after the start of brain development have been linked to the emergence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The researchers created brain organoids using stem cells from 13 boys with the disorder, including eight with macrocephaly, a condition in which the head is enlarged. The organoids were small replicas of developing brains that mimicked neuronal growth in the fetus.

The study found that children with ASD and macrocephaly showed an excessive growth of excitatory neurons, while those without macrocephaly exhibited a deficit of the same type of neurons. Measuring the prevalence of certain types of neurons, as was done in this study, could help doctors diagnose autism and also identify which autism cases might benefit from existing drugs that treat excessive excitatory neuron activity.

Nature is painting for us, day after day, pictures of infinite beauty.

—John Ruskin

Maryna Auramchuk / CanvaPro

Sea of Methane Endangers Planet

Deep below the icy expanse of the Arctic lies a hidden danger that could have catastrophic consequences for our planet. Layers of methane gas are trapped beneath the permafrost, and as the landscape changes, this sea of methane has the potential to be unleashed, wreaking havoc on the world.

Studying the permafrost beneath the islands of Svalbard, researchers found an immense reservoir of methane that could reach several million cubic feet. Currently, the leakage from below the permafrost is minimal, but glacial retreat and permafrost thawing could “lift the lid” on this hidden danger, according to Thomas Birchall, a geologist at Norway’s University Center in Svalbard and lead author of a study published in Frontiers in Earth Science.

Ocean currents can thin the permafrost, creating patchy and unpredictable regions. Geographical features can also allow gas produced by underlying rocks to escape. Even in areas with continuous permafrost, methane gas can migrate beneath the cold seal of the permafrost, creating the potential for escape.

A large-scale seepage would initiate a dangerous feedback loop of warming—a cycle where methane release leads to further permafrost thaw, resulting in additional gas emissions. While the focus of the study was on Norway, the researchers believe that migrating deposits of methane are likely present in other parts of the Arctic region as well.

10 Takeaways From World Economic Forum

The 54th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum was held in Davos, Switzerland, in January. The meeting focused on the importance of trust and the fundamental principles driving it. Global management consulting firm McKinsey & Company reported ten key takeaways from the meeting.

1. Speed is crucial to outperformance. Compared to peers in slow-moving companies, leaders in fast-moving organizations experience higher operational resilience, financial performance, growth and innovation.

2. Cooperation can coexist with competition. Through the practice of “coopetition” leaders can advance shared interests in specific areas, even if they disagree elsewhere.

3. The generative artificial intelligence revolution is just beginning. This emerging tool has the potential to transform roles and boost performance in sales and marketing, customer care and software development, unlocking trillions of dollars in value.

4. Sustainability is a business imperative. Companies that navigate the increasingly complex net-zero economy can accelerate value creation and gain a competitive advantage.

5. Investing in better women’s health can lead to economic prosperity. Addressing the women’s health gap could boost the global economy by $1 trillion annually by 2040.

6. A comprehensive approach to transformation is most effective. By incorporating will, skill, rigor and scope, leaders can outpace the competition in times of disruption and change.

7. Matching top talent to the highest-value roles is essential. Skills-based hiring can help organizations access new talent pools.

8. The best CEOs leave companies in better shape than they found them. The key is creating distinct value and avoiding complacency.

9. Performance and diversity are not mutually exclusive. The business case for diversity remains strong, even in a rapidly changing business landscape.

10. India’s potential as one of the fastest-growing large economies deserves attention. This is especially evident in technology, talent and health care.

Matthew Skubis / CanvaPro

Hearing a Solar Eclipse

On April 8, millions of Americans along a 100-mile-wide path across 13 states from Texas to Maine will have an opportunity to witness a total solar eclipse. Thanks to a team from the Harvard University Astronomy Lab, people with visual impairments will be able to experience the celestial event, too, thanks to a smartphone-sized device called LightSound, which translates ambient brightness into sound.

Users of the LightSound device will hear a piping flute for daylight that will transition to a clarinet as the light dims when the moon passes in between the Earth and sun. As the eclipse reaches its zenith, LightSound will emit soft clicks to represent total darkness. The device is designed to complement the multi-sensory event, which may include a drop in temperature and the sounds of nighttime creatures like crickets and owls.

To make astronomy more inclusive, the Harvard team plans to distribute more than 700 LightSound devices at no cost. In addition, the device and its code are open-source so those with the skills can make their own. To learn more, visit Astrolab.fas. Harvard.edu/LightSound.html.

Heal-Our-World Checklist

Our current systems and practices are depleting the Earth’s resources at an increasing rate well beyond its capacity to renew itself. According to the World Wildlife Fund, it takes a year-and-a-half to generate the resources we use in one year. That’s an unsustainable path for the planet’s future.

The world needs topsoil to grow 95 percent of its food, and yet the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization estimated in 2019 that 90 percent of the Earth’s topsoil is likely to be at risk by 2050.

Such statistics seem daunting, but if each of us reduces their individual ecological footprint, together we can make a difference. Here is an action checklist. Consult it often and complete one action at a time. Think of incremental change as hope.

Foods and Goods

■ Plant a produce garden for homegrown sustenance.

■ Build a compost bin in the yard.

■ Shop at local farms and farmers markets.

■ Join a community-supported agriculture group.

■ Eat a meatless meal at least once a week.

■ Recycle paper, cardboard, plastic, glass and metals.

■ Use reusable water bottles.

■ Shop with reusable bags.

■ Buy organic and regenerative organic foods.

■ Buy local, sustainably sourced and packaged products.

■ Choose products with less packaging to reduce waste.

Water

■ Take fewer and shorter showers.

■ Run the dishwasher only when it is full.

■ Fix leaks throughout the house.

■ Buy natural-fabric clothing; avoid synthetic garments.

■ Wash clothes in larger loads, on shorter cycles and in cold water; add a filter to absorb most microfibers.

■ Wash the car less often.

■ Avoid watering the lawn or power washing the home and walkways.

■ Set up a rain barrel to catch water for the garden.

■ Plant drought-tolerant plants.

Transportation

■ Walk, bike and take public transportation over driving.

■ Drive a small car; turn off the engine when idling more than 30 seconds.

■ Regularly service the car; change air filters, fill tires and maintain emission control systems.

■ Avoid short airplane trips; take a bus or train instead.

Energy Use and Toxins at Home

■ Choose energy-saving light bulbs and appliances.

■ Insulate walls, windows and ceilings.

■ Consider double-paned windows.

■ Keep thermostat low in winter and high in summer and strategically open windows.

■ Unplug electronics when not in use.

■ Hang-dry clothes.

■ Choose sustainably produced, nontoxic furniture.

■ Use biodegradable, nontoxic cleaning products.

Learn More About:

• Earth Overshoot Day, when humanity exhausts nature’s budget for the year, and how to #MoveTheDate at EarthOvershootDay.org.

• The personal footprint calculator at FootprintCalculator.org.

• Rodale Institute’s organic-growing resources at RodaleInstitute.org.

Sustainable Travel

Wanderlust With the Earth in Mind

by Sara Kaplan

Whether travel is enjoyed for much-needed relaxation, cultural immersion or the opportunity to volunteer in an eco-program spotlighting permaculture or farming, journeying to places far and near greatly enriches our human experience. During these environmentally critical times, our travels may carry a hefty price tag that the planet can no longer afford. This does not mean we need to sacrifice adventure. Every traveler can make a difference not only for the Earth but for the local communities they visit.

According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, 8.1 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions can be attributed to travel and tourism. Being in the know and taking more responsibility for our environmental impact can be easier than commonly assumed, all the while inviting unexpected enjoyment.

Amanda Reiser, a global sustainable tourism specialist based in Pennsylvania, encourages her clients to consider the three pillars of sustainable tourism: environment, economy and equity. “We all can play a part in fostering sustainable tourism and creating a more sustainable world," she explains, noting that a green-minded approach benefits not only the traveler but also the destination. "Ask yourself: Does my participation in this activity create a negative impact on the natural environment? Are there any actions to help reduce my environmental impact?"

A traveler’s footprint extends to the socio-cultural fabric of the destination, too. Reiser reminds travelers, “You may be in your destination for only a week, but the people who live there year-round feel the impacts of visitors every day, for better or worse.” By respecting local traditions and engaging locals in a respectful and inclusive manner, tourists can contribute positively to the cultural integrity of the communities they visit.

Greener Horizons

Instead of hitting all the trendy, transportation-reliant sights, opt to slow down and stay in one place for a longer period. This not only invites a richer, deeper experience but minimizes the need to hop onto another plane or bus. To support the local economy of a desired destination, buy locally produced items and book small, private hotels and inns, rather than international chains. Dining at locally owned eateries supports small business while giving travelers higher-quality fare and a more authentic cultural experience.

When planning a trip, contemplate the many treasures of domestic travel or choose a location that is not drowning in overtourism. The influx of tourists can significantly strain fragile ecosystems, deplete resources and disrupt the lives of local communities. Consider destinations that can be crossed via boat, train or bus, such as the New York-Montreal border or clusters of countries in Europe or Southeast Asia.

Packing With Purpose

Making small choices even when packing a suitcase goes a long way. Bring eco-friendly sunscreen and opt for brands that avoid chemicals harmful to coral reefs and tropical environments. Pack a cloth tote bag for daily excursions and a reusable water bottle to avoid single-use plastics. Remember that by using plastic containers more than once, we reduce the amount of waste that is released over time. Try not to overpack— bring only the most necessary items, preferably those that can be recycled, reused and disposed of properly.

Sojourning With Savvy

To avoid getaway glitches, become acquainted with local laws and regulations. When planning a fishing excursion, for example, identify the legally designated fishing spots and avoid harming endangered species, which are heavily protected under national and international regulations. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) offers an interactive map to show where legal fishing areas are by state (fws.gov/fishing/ map). Historical resources should also be taken into consideration. For instance, the Florida Keys require special permits for cultural, maritime, heritage and archeological explorations, including snorkeling expeditions of ancient shipwrecks and other unique, underwater sites.

It is always best to ask whether a destination is a naturally protected sanctuary or requires special permits. The FSW is a good reference site for information on activities in national wildlife refuges and the endangered animals that live there. To enjoy these areas to their fullest, make sure to find a knowledgeable local tour guide that understands the laws of the land.

Traveling consciously involves personal responsibility toward the environment through individual actions. “You can make a difference,” says David Knight, a professor of tourism management at Colorado State University. “Regenerative travel is not just

leaving things the way you found them. It’s a matter of giving more than you take.”

Don’t Be Greenwashed

Greenwashing is a corrupt practice by companies that claim to support conscious tourism but fail to live up to their claims. Vetting businesses when planning a trip means delving into third-party research and reports to check the fine print. Before booking, make sure the ecolodge or eco-touring company being considered has a legitimate certification on their website. The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) sets global standards and provides accreditations for destination managers, hotels and tour operators. There are also certifying groups in specific locations, such as the Sustainable Tourism Association of Hawaii, and others that are accredited by the GSTC, like Preferred by Nature.

For tourism operations that have not been certified, the onus is on the traveler. “Check with the local chambers of commerce. They should know who is working toward sustainability and can direct you to those aligned with what you are looking for,” says Claudia Gil Arroyo, an agricultural agent for the Rutgers University Cooperative Extension, in New Jersey. “If a tour operator or destination does not have a clear goal on how they’re contributing to the environment, it is unlikely that they are actually green.”

For tourism to be truly sustainable, it must also be economically viable for local communities. Economic sustainability ensures that tourism dollars benefit the local economy, creating fair wages, local sourcing and community empowerment, and allowing communities to thrive while preserving their cultural heritage. When traveling, support local, eco-friendly businesses that provide sustainable products.

A good example is agritourism—a vacation stay at a participating local farm—which can provide exciting, hands-on learning experiences. “Get out there. Look for your local

growers and check out the services and activities they offer,” says Gil Arroyo. “People have this idea that agritourism is just picking your pumpkins and that’s it, and there’s so much more that can be done at a farm.”

Eco-Friendly North American Parks

North America is home to many national parks—63 in the United States and 48 in Canada. Here are five exceptional examples that provide a sustainable, eco-friendly vacation experience.

Yellowstone National Park is known for its geothermal features, including the famous Old Faithful geyser. It also has a diverse range of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves and herds of bison. This U.S. park has implemented sustainable practices such as renewable energy installations, waste management programs and educational initiatives to promote conservation.

Great Bear Rainforest is a temperate locale on the central and northern coasts of British Columbia, Canada. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including the rare Kermode bear, also known as the spirit bear. The park works closely with First Nations communities, implementing conservation measures to protect biodiversity and support eco-conscious businesses.

Everglades National Park is a unique wetland ecosystem in Florida known as the “River of Grass”. It provides habitat for numerous endangered species, such as the Florida panther and the West Indian manatee. The park employs restoration efforts to preserve the natural water flow and conserve wildlife, with plenty of opportunities for eco-friendly recreational activities like kayaking and hiking.

Cape Breton Highlands National Park is located on the northern tip of the Canadian province of Nova Scotia. It offers breathtaking coastal views, rugged cliffs and stunning hiking trails. The park implements waste reduction, energy conservation, ecological restoration and educational programs to promote environmental stewardship.

Redwood National and State Parks, in California, are home to the tallest trees on Earth, the majestic coast redwoods. Sustainable eco-practices include trail maintenance and restoration, wildlife protection, interpretation programs to educate visitors about the delicate ecosystem, and conservation efforts to combat climate change and preserve redwood habitat.

Sara Kaplan is an environmentally conscious freelance writer and eco-traveler from Fort Collins, CO.

Dmitry Pichugin / CanvaPro

From Organic to Grass-Fed to Regenerative

Finding the Best Farming Practices

by Sara English

Embarking on a journey toward healthier eating often begins with a quest for a better understanding of food-labeling and food-sourcing options. For those taking their first steps into the world of healthy eating and sustainable agriculture, terms like grass-fed, organic and regenerative can be both intriguing and perplexing. Understanding these distinctions empowers consumers to make choices aligned with their values and priorities when selecting food products.

Conventional Farming

“Conventional farming practices involve very heavy equipment, heavy tillage and a lot of inputs—chemical fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides,” says Elizabeth Whitlow, the executive director of the Regenerative Organic Alliance. “Despite its high outputs, conventional farming does not necessarily guarantee nutritious, healthy crops.”

A majority of our meat originates from animal feeding operations (AFOs), where animals are commonly raised in confinement and fed genetically modified grains, as opposed to grazing or foraging in pastures or rangelands. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, “Manure and wastewater from [AFOs] have the potential to contribute pollutants such as nitrogen and phosphorus, organic matter, sediments, pathogens, hormones and antibiotics to the environment.”

Grass-Fed Beef

Grass-fed farming focuses on feeding livestock grass rather than grains and, in some cases, allowing them to forage for their food, which is considered more humane than AFOs. Rotational grazing, common in grass-fed farming, contributes to environmental sustainability by promoting soil fertility and biodiversity.

According to a 2019 review published in Nutrition Journal that compared the nutritional profiles of grass-fed and grain-fed beef, scientists from the California State University College of Agriculture noted that grass-fed beef tends to be lower in overall fat and higher in several heart-healthy fatty acids and antioxidants, including omega-3s, conjugated linoleic acid, precursors for vitamins A and E, and glutathione. The authors also note, “To maximize the favorable lipid profile and to guarantee the elevated antioxidant content, animals should be finished [fed before slaughter] in 100 percent grass or pasture-based diets.”

While there is no federal standard for a grass-fed label, third-party certifiers that may lend a level of reliability include the American Grassfed Association and A Greener World. Look for 100 percent grassfed and grass-finished certification, and remember that a grass-fed label doesn’t automatically mean that the product is organic or regenerative organic.

USDA Organic Certification

Established by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in 1990, the USDA Organic certification and farming practices focus on soil health, biodiversity and natural methods of pest and weed control, rather than using synthetic inputs like chemical fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides, or genetically modified organisms.

According to the USDA, 17,445 certified organic farms operated a total of 4.9 million acres in 2021, amounting to less than 1 percent of U.S. farmland. From 2019 to 2021, sales of organic crops increased 5 percent to $6.1 billion.

AlexRaths / CanvaPro

A 2019 study published in the journal Environmental Research reported that an organic diet may reduce exposure to a range of pesticides in children and adults. A 2024 review of studies published in the journal Food noted that certain health benefits have been associated with a higher consumption of organic foods, including a reduction in obesity, improvements in blood nutrient composition and a reduction in the development of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and colorectal cancers. Rodale Institute’s Vegetable Systems Trial, a long-term, side-by-side comparison of conventional and organic methods, is designed to analyze nutrient density and explore the links between soil health and human health.

Regenerative Farming

In addition to adhering to the core principles of organic farming, regenerative agriculture sets out to actively rejuvenate and improve ecosystems, nurture soil health, foster biodiversity and promote water retention, with the added benefit of sequestering environmental carbon by returning it to the soil. According to Kegan Hilaire, a small-farms consultant for Rodale Institute, this type of farming prioritizes human health, farmworker conditions, animal welfare and animal integration into farming methods. Farms and products that bear the Regenerative Organic Certification (ROC) label “meet the highest standards in soil health, animal welfare and social fairness,” Whitlow explains. As of 2023, 156 farms and about 1.1 million acres have received this certification, which is overseen by the Regenerative Organic Alliance, a nonprofit group of experts in farming, ranching, soil health, animal welfare, and farmer and worker fairness.

Voting With Our Pocketbooks

Hilaire points out that only about 1 percent of the U.S. population are farmers, fewer are certified organic or regenerative, and many small farms employ these methods without getting the official paperwork. “The best certification is meeting your farmer and deciding if you trust where your food is coming from,” he suggests.

Grass-fed, organic and regenerative organic foods each offer unique benefits, from improved nutrition to environmental sustainability. Every purchase becomes a vote for the kind of world we want to live in. By selecting products aligned with our values, we can collectively drive positive change in the food system and shape a healthier, more sustainable future for generations to come.

Sara English is the owner of Wild Roots Farm Marketing, a digital marketing firm for regenerative farmers and ranchers. Connect at WildRootsFarmMarketing.com. See recipe, page 22.

Bon Appétit!

A directory of local restaurants, eateries and markets

New Home for Wild Magnolia Kombucha

The most widely accepted origin story about kombucha is that it was developed in 221 BCE during the Qin Dynasty. Made from sweetened tea fermented with a culture of yeast and bacteria, kombucha was said to possess the power of immortality.

It is believed that the emperor Qin Shi Huangdi first made and consumed kombucha and he continued to drink it for health and longevity. At the time, it was known as “the remedy for longevity,” “the elixir of life” and “the tea of immortality.”

Amanda Webb, owner of the coastal Alabama company, Wild Magnolia Kombucha, first experienced kombucha in 2007 and fell in love with the flavor. She started adding kombucha and other fermented foods to her and her boys’ lives. Soon, homebrewing was added to her resume. The venture into commercial brewing came in 2016 and Wild Magnolia Kombucha has evolved along with Webb’s joy of making fun, healthy, fermented foods.

sweet with an excellent taste. Best of all, it is brewed locally!”

Wild Magnolia Kombucha provides a variety of unique flavors such as their classic lemon ginger and elderberry flavors to the fan favorite, blueberry lavender honeysuckle. There are also rotating seasonal flavors.

Customers rave about Wild Magnolia Kombucha and one, Nichole Alpers, says, “The elderberry is tart and finishes lightly

“Our flavor profiles come from our love of good food that nourishes our soul,” says Webb. “I’m passionate about Wild Magnolia Kombucha because if you do not make time for your wellness, you will make time for your illness. It can be very easy to get caught up in day-to-day life, especially as a business owner, and forget to care for yourself. It’s easy to fall back on eating on the go, lose sleep, stress and get overwhelmed with family issues. And the next thing you know, here come the aches, pains, fatigue and illness.” In addition to eating healthy, Webb recommends that people who are looking to start a better self-care routine might try something as simple as going to bed 15 to 30 minutes earlier, drinking one more glass of water or moving your body 30 minutes a day… even if that means you are dancing in your kitchen!

You can find Wild Magnolia Kombucha around the Gulf Coast on various grocers’ shelves and restaurant menus; Saturdays at Palafox Market in Pensacola; every other Sunday at the Mobile Bay Makers Market in Fairhope and a new location at 16965 Teresa Drive in Fairhope.

For more information, visit Facebook.com/WildMagnoliaKombucha or email Info@WildMagnoliaLife.com. See Healthy Eats GuideBaldwin County listing, page 21.

Brooke Lark/unsplash

COASTAL ALABAMA FARMERS & FISHERMENS MARKET

Committed to Baldwin County’s local community & agriculture.

781 Farmers Market Ln., Foley, AL CoastalAlabamaMarket.com

FAIRHOPE HEALTH FOODS

Homegrown in the South since 1975. 280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center Fairhope, AL • 251-928-0644 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

FAIRHOPE JUICE COMPANY

Nourish the body. Fuel the soul. Battles Wharf Market

18327 Scenic Hwy. 98, Fairhope, AL FairhopeJuiceCompany.com

MCKENZIE FARMS

Family-owned market supplying fresh produce and more to our community. 17558 A Greeno Rd., Fairhope, AL MckenzieFarmMarket.com

OHANA POKE

OX KITCHEN

Made with fresh ingredients in-house daily, approachable, not intimidating.

365 S. Greeno Rd., Fairhope, AL TheOxKitchen.com

PRESS & CO.

Eastern Shores newest organic café. Breakfast. Lunch. Juice. Smoothies. Coffee. 711 Belrose Ave., Daphne, AL 251-314-0778 • PressNCo.com

SAVANNA THE RESTAURANT

@ALABAMA GULF COAST ZOO

A local dining favorite, a hidden gem. 20499 Oak Rd. E., Gulf Shores, AL SavannahTheRestaurant.com • 251-256-7007

SUNFLOWER CAFÉ FAIRHOPE

Offering a healthy dining experience in a cozy, casual environment.

320 Eastern Shore Shopping Center Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

THE HAPPY OLIVE

Be happy, eat healthy, live well. Taste and experience culinary delight!

314 De La Mare Ave., Fairhope, AL HappyOlive4.com

THE INTERNATIONAL GOAT

Always fresh, all-natural ingredients prepared to melt in your mouth. Located inside Piggly Wiggly

100 Plantation Pointe Rd., Fairhope, AL Call ahead to order, 251-928-0239

WAREHOUSE BAKERY & DONUTS

A neighborhood eatery serving made-fromscratch, vegan friendly, gluten-free goodness 759 Nichols Ave., Fairhope, AL WarehouseBakeryAndDonuts.com

WILDFLOWERS & FRESH FOOD

Simple and colorful high-vibe cooking classes, events and fresh recipes. 251-656-9112

WildflowersAndFreshFood.com

WILD MAGNOLIA KOMBUCHA

Brewed with love, laughter and a dash of Southern sarcasm. Info@WildMagniliaLife.com

251-463-6233 • WildMagnoliaLife.com

For an online list of local healthy food sources, visit NAGulfCoast.com/healthyeats. To list your healthy market, restaurant or cooking event/class, email MichelleS@NAGulfCoast.com.

Organic Chicken Bone Broth

This easy, slow-cooker recipe fills the home with delightful aromas while providing a nutrient-dense broth. Using organic chicken supports farming practices that prioritize animal welfare and environmental sustainability.

YIELD: 8 SERVINGS

1-2 lbs organic whole chicken bones (leftovers from a whole chicken roast is perfect)

1 onion, roughly chopped

3 carrots, roughly chopped

3 celery stalks, roughly chopped

6 cloves garlic, smashed

2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar

2 tsp black peppercorns

1 tsp salt

Optional: fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for extra flavor

Place the chicken bones in a large six-quart slow cooker. Add the vegetables, herbs (if using), garlic, apple cider vinegar, black peppercorns and salt on top of the bones and mix to combine. Fill the slow cooker with filtered water until the ingredients are submerged. Cover with the lid and set to low heat for 12 hours.

Once done cooking, let it cool for about 45 minutes before straining through a fine mesh strainer into a large bowl. Discard the solids. The liquid should be thick and gelatinous. Once cooled, transfer to jars or other containers, labeled with the date and contents, and store in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze for up to three months. Reheat before serving.

Recipe courtesy of Sara English.

Exploring Beyond the Classroom

Nurturing Healthy Minds Through Travel

by Megy Karydes

When Desiree Miller and her daughter visited Rome, they met a couple from Ukraine celebrating their honeymoon. There was talk of a possible war, so they chatted about what that might mean for the newlyweds. Later that day, her daughter asked their Italian driver his thoughts about the impending conflict in Ukraine with Russia, and he said he didn’t like it because it was going to raise gas prices.

“Traveling feels like it shrinks the world,” says Miller, an Atlanta-based travel writer, vlogger, digital streaming producer, co-host of the “Time to Talk Travel” podcast and mother of four. “So many children these days only know what’s in their backyard or their general neighborhood or community, the school they go to, and that’s the extent of their communication with other people. But when I

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take my daughter to other countries, she gets to experience people from those countries and beyond.”

According to the 2023 U.S. Family Travel Survey released by the Family Travel Association, 80 percent of the respondents indicated that travel helps children see the world from a broader perspective, and 67 percent said their children have become more interested in other cultures because of their travel experiences.

Nasreen Stump agrees that travel expands a child’s worldview. “I want my kids to be curious, because curiosity leads to lifelong learning,” says the mother of four, a content creator and co-host of the “Time to Talk Travel” podcast. “When you’re in different places, and you see something that’s different, you think, ‘Oh, what’s that?’ and want to learn more about it. It’s the same with similarities.”

Managing Expenses

Families need not break the bank to enjoy meaningful experiences away from home. Here are a few money-saving travel ideas suggested by Stump and Miller.

• Take shorter trips. As they’ve grown older, each of Stump’s children have developed different interests, so instead of traveling as a family all the time, she takes each of them on one-on-one trips based on their interests. When the family does come together for an excursion, a day trip or weekend getaway is a more affordable option.

• Hop on the internet. Miller’s youngest daughter, now 18 years old, loves using TikTok as a jumping-off point to research travel destinations, local restaurants, activities and events. Other kids rely on YouTube to get ideas or travel virtually.

• Enjoy a staycation. For families that can’t afford multiple plane tickets, closer-tohome experiences offer fun learning op-

portunities such as attending a multicultural fair to watch live performances or trying a new cuisine at a nearby restaurant or in a cooking class.

• Take advantage of free or discounted deals. Some libraries offer free passes to museums for library card holders. National parks have free entrance days throughout the year. Check nps.gov for upcoming dates. Flights and hotels are often discounted during the shoulder season—the period between a region’s peak season and offseason. Some credit cards allow members to use their reward points for travel-related discounts.

Preparing for Travel

• Research destinations. Bookmark areas of interest on a Google map or add them to a Pinterest board. Read books, magazine articles and travel blogs about different locales.

• Sample the cuisine. Much can be learned about a culture through food. Experiment with new ingredients by visiting specialized grocery stores that cater to different cultures, or join a snack subscription with selections from around the world.

• Learn a new language. Check out apps like Duolingo, Babbel and Rosetta Stone.

Traveling Is Empowering

Life is full of challenges, and traveling, especially to foreign ports, can test anyone’s patience. Some of Miller’s children don’t love to travel because of flight delays or other unexpected mishaps. Her youngest is more adaptable. According to Miller, dealing with adversity is part of life, and travel is a great teacher.

Traveling allows kids to get out of their comfort zones, and for many, that sense of adventure is powerful. Whether exploring historical landmarks, taking part in hiking excursions, trying new foods, hearing different languages and dialects, or meeting new

people, family travel can help children feel more comfortable, less isolated and see the world in a new light.

Making Memories

Children love to collect souvenirs on their travels as a way to remember their experiences. Miller and her daughter usually buy a piece of jewelry because it is small and doesn’t take up any suitcase space. Stump’s family likes to take lots of photographs and bring home candy from the culture. Rocks or shells, if permitted, also make wonderful keepsakes.

Memories go beyond objects. Multi-generational travel allows children to see their grandparents from a fresh perspective. Kids will remember travel experiences long after they return home. “Travel gives you a real appreciation of the world beyond what you see every day,” Miller says, adding that her daughter has befriended other travelers with whom she still stays in contact.

Megy Karydes is a Chicago-based writer and author of 50 Ways to More Calm, Less Stress: Scientifically Proven Ways to Relieve Anxiety and Boost Your Mental Health Using Your Five Senses.

A Look at Single-Use Plastics

Understanding the Challenges and Solutions

by Sheryl DeVore

We might be tempted to bring plastic forks to a picnic or succumb to the expediency of prepackaged chips for our kids’ lunches, but single-use plastics wreak havoc on the environment and human health. Although marketed as disposable, most of these fossil fuel-derived, non-biodegradable items are not being recycled, so they languish indefinitely in landfills or pollute our waterways in the form of microplastics. “Plastic pollution has been linked to everything from infertility and cancer in humans to severe injury and death in wildlife,” says Veena Singla, senior scientist for the National Resources Defense Council, in New York.

Plastic Use Is Rampant

Roughly 30 percent of garbage in the U.S. comes from single-use plastics,” says Shawn Flood, a partner and vice president of operations and customer care at SBC Waste Solutions, a waste collection company based in Broadview, Illinois.

Marketed for their inexpensive, lightweight, flexible and impermeable qualities, we have come to rely on plastic grocery bags, shrink wrapping, drink bottles, stickers, K-cups, straws, gloves, takeout containers and other throwaway products. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, approximately 380 billion plastic bags and wraps are used annually, which require 12 million barrels of oil to make.

Recycling Is Not Happening

Many plastic products that could be recycled are still getting tossed into the landfill. “The biggest problem is contamination,” Flood explains. “When someone puts a plastic milk jug into the recycling bin and there’s still milk inside of it, that ends up getting trashed. Those products become single-use plastics when consumers don’t do the correct job of washing recyclables.”

Banning Single-Use Plastics

Over the past few decades, countries including Costa Rica, France and Italy, as well as some U.S. states, have introduced laws that prohibit or tax single-use plastics. “They are banning single-use plastics in California,” Flood notes. “Everything is paper. Basically, you cannot find a plastic straw,” Flood notes.

Other states following the trend to ban certain plastics include Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New York, Oregon, New Jersey and Vermont. The U.S. Department of the Interior is phasing out single-use plastics on public lands, including national parks, by 2032. A Los Angeles County public works study reports that a ban on plastic bags in San Jose has led to reductions of plastic bags found in storm drains (89 percent), rivers (60 percent) and residential areas (59 percent).

Some states, however, have chosen to protect the continued use of these items. For example, Indiana passed a bill in 2016 prohibiting city and county officials from taxing or restricting the use of disposable plastic bags by certain retailers. Similar laws have been enacted or proposed in Wisconsin, Idaho, Florida and Arizona.

Beware of Greenwashing

New single-use products are continually being introduced that claim to be better for the environment, but consumers need to be cautious of such promises, says Brandon Leeds, co-founder of SOFi Paper Products, based in Miami, Florida. “There’s a tre-

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mendous amount of greenwashing going on,” he explains. “They stamp the products as eco-friendly. For example, some agave straws are predominantly made with plastic and just mixed with agave.”

SOFi manufactures straws and drinking cups that are 100 percent paper, 100 percent plastic free and 100 percent compostable. They sell to 4,000 businesses in the U.S., including mom-and-pop coffee shops, highend restaurants, convenience stores and popular food chains. Leeds remarks, “Our company mission is to educate people.”

Choosing Better Options

Alternatives to plastic, such as cotton or paper bags, also have environmental impacts, and the jury is out on whether single-use plastic bans can really improve

the environment, according to Enhesa, a company that helps businesses with regulatory compliance.

A study commissioned by the American Recyclable Plastic Bag Alliance, a group that represents U.S. manufacturers and recyclers of plastic bags, found that New Jersey’s ban resulted in a 60 percent decline in bag volume. However, the study also found six times more woven and non-woven polypropylene plastic was used to produce reusable bags, which are not widely recycled. The non-woven bags consume 15 times more plastic, and their production generates five times the greenhouse gas emissions per bag than the thin plastic bags.

Flood says one solution may be “to go back to the early days when glass was used for ev-

erything, and it could be used over and over.” Several states have created container deposit laws related to glass and plastic. In Oregon, for example, nearly every business that sells certain beverages in redeemable sealed containers is legally required to accept returned containers that can be recycled or reused.

The bottom line, Flood asserts, is that people need to move away from a throwaway mentality and stop using single-use plastics. “The consumer has the power to do anything,” he says. “When I go on vacation and I’m walking on the beach, I’m picking up pieces of plastic everywhere.”

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

Hope Community Planning Urban Teaching Farm and Kitchen

Founded as a nonprofit in 2016, Hope Community founding members Shawn Graham (5th generation founding family from Fairhope South), Sallie Smith (Fairhope, now deceased) and Elliott Lauderdale (Fairhope) had a vision to unite all of Fairhope and Fairhope South in community.

With a diverse board of directors, committee chair and current membership of more than 400 volunteers, Hope Community plans to acquire and revitalize the 103-year-old Anna T. Jeanes School property in Fairhope South. The 12-acre parcel was originally farmland owned by the Smith and Hankins families and was donated to build a school to educate black children of Fairhope South in the early 1900s. Hope Community has a two-year lease from the Baldwin County School System which is coming up this year and they have requested the option to buy the property or have it donated.

Completion of the project would result in a thriving teaching farm and community center that creates jobs, training and apprenticeships. It would also support eco-tourism and preserve local African American history, arts and culture in addition to building relationships through education, cooperation and community projects.

Rebecca Bryant, architect and owner of Watershed, a green architecture firm, joined the Hope Community project because the mission aligns with her firm’s beliefs: “Creating healthy buildings and landscapes that conserve energy and resources, while fostering a greater connection to the natural world.”

“Fairhope South has been underserved in many ways, even in public amenities like parks and playgrounds,” states Bryant. “It is, however, ecologically and culturally rich. We hope that by creating opportunities for people to learn about local history and take part in programs around healthy food and agriculture, we can benefit the community.”

“Hope Community envisions a thriving and interconnected community where all individuals have access to locally sourced healthy foods, employment opportunities and cultural enrichment, which promotes sustainable and resilient living,” states Graham, current president of Hope Community.

Those working toward this project aspire to improve the Feeding America Stats from 2021 that show 9.7% (4,760) of Baldwin County children and 11% (26,830) of adults are food insecure.

“Our vision is for Fairhope to embody all the components of a ‘Blue Zone,’” says Lorie Ward, Chair of Community Development. “Blue Zones are areas of the world where people thrive into their 90s and 100s largely due to a high level of physical activity in their daily lives, plant forward diets, a sense of community and faith. We could organically uplevel the health of our entire community with this project. We already have a walkable town, sense of community and favorable climate for growing food.”

Board members Sallie Smith, Sam and Martha Crosby, Shawn Graham

Sallie Smith and Hope Community

A teaching farm can provide the experience of direct contact and interaction with agriculture and natural resources. A teaching kitchen allows experts in healthy living and food preparation to teach the community to nourish themselves and their families to promote health and avoid disease in a cost-effective way.

Volunteers at Hope Community believe there are 10 ways to collectively make a difference and create a better world for everyone and that the revitalization of the Anna T. Jeanes School property into an educational urban farm and kitchen for the community will touch on all of these:

1. Preserve Baldwin County African American history.

2. Provide a gathering space for the community.

3. Foster an inclusive and united neighborhood.

4. Expand accessibility to the arts.

5. Develop life skills for all ages.

6. Reduce food insecurity and increase physical fitness.

7. Reduce chronic disease.

8. Practice environmental stewardship.

9. Provide pathways to employment.

10. Contribute to the beautification of the area.

Anyone who is passionate about making a difference in the lives of others and believes in the power of community and collective action might consider looking into the volunteer opportunities at Hope Community. It is a dynamic organization dedicated to empowering individuals and fostering positive change, resulting in a brighter future for all.

To get involved, see HopeCommunityAL.org. Public meetings are the 3rd Tuesday each month in the Fairhope Library.

Donate to Hope Community 501c3.

Get Fit and Get Outside

How to Prepare for Outdoor Treks

by Marlaina Donato

Hitting the trails offers something for everyone, whether it’s hiking for the day or backpacking and roughing it overnight in remote areas. According to the 2022 Outdoor Participation Trends Report, getting up close and personal with Mother Nature is more popular than ever in the States, with 58.7 million hikers and 10.3 million backpackers in 2021.

With health benefits like stronger heart health, a lower risk of respiratory ailments and a boost in mental health, hiking is a fun way to stay fit, but prepping for the

physical demands of local trails or wilderness is essential for both endurance and injury prevention. “A strong, well-conditioned body is your best ally when crossing rough terrain and overcoming unexpected challenges,” says Larry Pringle, a certified fitness trainer and founder of Perfect Fit Training and Nutrition, a holistic training hub for busy entrepreneurs.

A Trail Plan for Any Age

With great diversity of trail challenges to choose from, hiking is doable for most people. “If you're generally healthy, no matter

your age, you can complete any hike you’ve always wanted to do,” says Fit for Trips hiking coach Marcus Shapiro. “I have had the privilege of working with many individuals who are over 70 years old, and they have successfully reached the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro and the base camp of Mount Everest.”

Shapiro estimates an eight-to-12-week training regimen for younger hikers and 12 to 16 weeks of preparation for older enthusiasts. For the best fitness outcome, he underscores the importance of choosing the right exercises for the sport, explaining, “Every recreational activity requires a unique training approach for best results. It’s called ‘specificity of training’.” His Fit for Trips training includes inclines, stairs, lunges, distance and high-intensity interval training.

To meet the challenge of walking for hours at a time, cardiovascular conditioning like jogging, brisk walking, time on the treadmill or cycling is a good place to begin. Adding a heavy backpack of survival supplies to the equation requires extra strength in the legs, core and upper body and is best achieved through squats, planks, lunges and push-ups. Full body stretching with emphasis on hamstrings, quadriceps, hips and back are also essential.

Make It a Lifestyle

To avoid weekend warrior injuries, it is wise to adopt a hiker’s mentality in everyday life. “Start slow and find ways to incorporate more movement into your daily life,” advises Maggie Peikon, communications director of American Hiking Society. “Skip the escalator or elevator and opt for taking the stairs instead. You’ll be glad to have gotten those extra steps in when you’re taking on uphill climbs out on the trail.” She also hails the perks of biking to the store with a backpack or walking to the park for a lunch break if it is safe and feasible. Most of all, Peikon stresses the value of going slow and listening to the body.

Jacob Lund / CanvaPro

The benefits of getting outdoors goes beyond physical health and spills over into positive impacts on the environment. Peikon muses, “When we hike, our connection to the places we explore grows. When we feel connected to a place—whether a trail or a favorite spot outdoors—we are more likely to step forward to protect the environment and change our behavior to lessen our negative impacts.”

For Pringle, having a strong body carries over into other areas of living. “Getting ready for the trails means getting ready for life. Before you hit those paths, hit the gym. It’s not just about reaching mountaintops; it’s about reaching for your best self.”

National Trails Day

June 1 is National Trails Day, a day of service for hometown trails and the people that love them. Promoted by the American Hiking Society, public events throughout the country offer opportunities for tens of thousands of participants to come together in partnership to advocate for, maintain and clean up public lands and trails. To learn more and find a nearby event, visit AmericanHiking. org/national-trails-day.

Finding a Nearby Trail

Check out these sites for detailed information about hometown trails that match the hiker’s level of ability.

• AllTrails.com

• FaroutGuides.com

• HikingProject.com

What to Pack on the Trail

• Sturdy, appropriate footwear—from trail shoes for moderate terrain to heavy hiking boots for strenuous climbs

• Nutrient-dense food

• Rain gear and dry-fast layers for changing weather

• Means to start an emergency fire

• Whistle

• Flashlight

• First-aid kit

• Multi-tool or knife

• Sunscreen, sunglasses and sunprotective clothing

• Lightweight protection from the elements

Marlaina Donato is an author, visionary painter and composer. Connect at BluefireStudio.art.

Farm Vacations

American Agritourism Grows in Post-Pandemic Times

by April Thompson

Long a staple of European travel, agritourism is growing in popularity in the United States, as concrete-weary urbanites seek out a taste of country living and a way to support small-scale farms. The concept broadly covers any activity linking agriculture with tourism, and it takes as many forms as there are farms. Farm-stay options run the gamut from helping with farm chores like feeding chickens and collecting eggs to structured classes on weaving, soap making or beekeeping.

“Living in towns and cities, most Americans are very disconnected from nature and agriculture. Farm stays are helping to make an important urban-rural connection,” says Scottie Jones, founder of Farm Stay USA, an association connecting travelers with working farms and ranches that

offer hands-on opportunities and overnight accommodations.

Since 2007, Jones has operated her own farm stay, the 70-acre Leaping Lamb Farm, in Alsea, Oregon. She has been surprised at many guests’ “agricultural illiteracy”, underscoring the importance of the educational experiences that farm stays like hers offer. “I used to send guests off to graze in the garden alone, but then realized many people don’t know what carrots look like in the field,” says Jones. “I would get questions like, ‘Don’t you need a brown cow to make chocolate milk?’”

More than one in three guests to Leaping Lamb Farm return for subsequent stays, a very high retention rate for the lodging industry. “We get to watch families grow up

as they return to the farm year after year. That has a real impact, as we need the next generation to get involved in farming and food systems,” Jones notes.

Justin Bolois, of Los Angeles, got introduced to agritourism in Tuscany, later seeking out the farm experience closer to home. “We had been living in New York City at the time and came to value the expansive countryside being in Italy,” he says. “The family, which ran a vineyard, would cook incredible meals for us. Vacations are great when they mirror the experience of living in a place, and agritourism is one of the closest ways to access that.”

Bolois and his wife later discovered Straus Home Ranch, in Marshall, California, and fell in love with the place and its people so

deeply they hosted their wedding there. The ranch was founded by a pair of pioneers in organic farming and land conservation in Marin County, and it was later revitalized to include a farm stay by siblings Vivien, Miriam and Michael Straus after their parents’ deaths. “You can tell that Vivian and Michael not only care about what they do, they also care about you, and about you enjoying their life mission. That’s a very special bond to develop with an agritourism owner,” Bolois says.

The ranch features special touches, including a beautifully equipped kitchen to shuck local oysters or to host private chefs for farm-fresh meals served on a handcrafted table made of reclaimed redwood from their old hay barn. There is no cellphone reception on the ranch, encouraging guests to kayak, hike, birdwatch and stargaze.

“After being cooped up during COVID, people want to see wildlife and biodiversity again. People are aching to disconnect from their screens and reconnect with nature—what we call ‘dirt therapy’,” says Ashley Walsh, president and founder of Poconos Organics, one of the largest Regenerative Organic Certified farms on the continent, sprawling across 380 acres in Long Pond, Pennsylvania.

Walsh built the boutique resort, The Village at Pocono, with her grandfather when she was 25 as a sister destination to the farm. The accommodations feature full kitchens where guests can cook a cornucopia of produce fresh from the fields. Visitors can enjoy luxurious amenities on site, then pop over to the farm to attend hands-on cooking classes, wellness retreats, farm tours and more.

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Beyond connecting with rural life, farm stays are a meaningful, mutually beneficial way for farmers and consumers to reconnect on a personal level. “Agritourism puts a face to farming. We want to educate people so they can make better choices in food and get to experience what really fresh food tastes like,” Jones says.

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Relief for Parkinson’s Patients

How Traditional and Complementary Interventions Can Help

by Madiha Saeed, M.D.

According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, more than 10 million people worldwide and nearly 1 million Americans are living with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Every year, nearly 90,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with this ailment, which causes the gradual loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. Symptoms that develop slowly over years include tremors; stiff muscles; a slow, shuffling gait; and difficulties with movement and speech.

There is no cure for PD, and by the time a patient is diagnosed, they may have already lost 60 to 80 percent of their dopamine-producing cells. According to Kenneth Sharlin, a board-certified neurologist and certified functional medicine doctor, the first line of defense for PD is levodopa (L-Dopa), a pharmaceutical that is converted to dopamine in the body. “Unfortunately, natural strategies don’t get a lot of research, so no supplement has been shown to effectively treat the disease,” he asserts. “Mucuna pruriens, a tropical legume that grows in Africa, Asia and the Pacific Islands, naturally contains levodopa, but studies have shown it to be unreliable.”

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in controlling memory, mood, sleep, learning, concentration and movement. “If

the car doesn’t have gas, then you can’t drive it,” explains Sharlin. Once a patient is taking levodopa to bring dopamine levels up, complementary strategies can be employed to help manage PD symptoms by as much as 73 percent, according to a panel of doctors participating in The Parkinson’s Solutions Summit. Exercise, sleep and even intimacy with a partner can all be managed well once the car has “gas” to drive it.

After

What you discover?

Agsandrew / CanvaPro

Exercise

According to Sharlin, the number one strategy for PD patients to maintain their motor function is exercise such as bicycling, chair yoga, movement classes in warm water pools, Pilates and dance. A meta-analysis published in Gerontology and Geriatrics analyzed 15 randomized controlled trials involving 498 participants in several countries to investigate the health impacts of self-directed physical activity (SDPA) on patients with early and mid-stage PD. The study examined the effects of moderateintensity exercises, including aerobics, dance, strength training, flexibility exercises and Nordic walking. The researchers found that the SDPA significantly enhanced gait function, balance, mobility, function and postural control.

Gut Health

Monitoring gut function is very important for patients with PD, as constipation is very common,” states Trupti Gokani, a board-certified neurologist, health and mindset coach, and Ayurvedic expert. Improving gut function with the help of key nutrients from vegetables, fruits, clean protein, nuts and seeds, olive oil, herbs and spices has been shown to slow the progression of the disease. It is best to choose organic when possible, as that will decrease the exposure to brain-toxic chemicals. A gluten-free diet has also been found to improve PD symptoms.

Sharlin recommends an antioxidant-rich diet packed with polyphenols, along with green tea that contains catechins called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a natural antioxidant with neuroprotective properties.

Stress Reduction

Anxiety linked to PD can worsen the symptoms,” Gokani points out. Chronic stress is a risk factor for PD, because it elevates the hormone cortisol, which can interfere with neuronal plasticity and damage dopamine-producing neurons in the brain.

Incorporating deep breathing, meditation and other relaxation techniques is integral to improving the patient’s quality of life. According to Sharlin, “Mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques to self-regulate have a positive impact in regulating Parkinsonism.”

New Test to Confirm Diagnosis

When a patient comes to his office exhibiting PD symptoms, Sharlin now has a new way to confirm a PD diagnosis by taking a small tissue sample and sending it to the lab to look for a neural protein called alpha synuclein, which is associated with PD. In a 2023 National Institutes of Health study involving 428 people with PD and 120 control

volunteers, this skin biopsy was found to be very accurate, with 92.7 percent sensitivity.

Deep Brain Stimulation

According to Sharlin, deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a well-researched and well-developed treatment for PD. The surgical therapy involves implanting electrodes within areas of the brain to interrupt irregular signals that cause movement-related symptoms. A 2019 retrospective study of 400 patients that underwent DBS implantation found that 75 percent of the participants felt the procedure provided symptom control.

Focused ultrasound is another PD tool, using ultrasound beams to destroy areas in the brain cells that are causing movement problems. This procedure is permanent and can be done on only one side of the brain, so it helps symptoms on only one side of the body. Treatment to both sides could cause speech, swallowing or memory problems. Sharlin notes that the results from focused ultrasound are no better than DBS and involve more intense intervention. Also, not all Parkinson’s patients are good candidates for this procedure.

Madiha Saeed is a holistic, functional and integrative doctor in Naperville, IL, and director of education for Documenting Hope and KnoWEwell.

Classifieds Calendar

$1 per word, per month. Email content to MichelleS@NAGulfCoast.com Deadline is the 10th of the month.

Help Wanted

FAIRHOPE HEALTH FOODS & SUNFLOWER CAFÉ ARE LOOKING TO HIRE part-time staff. The Fairhope store is open 9am-7pm Monday-Saturday and Sunday 11am-6pm. The café is open for lunch Monday-Saturday 10:30am-3pm; Sunday 11am-3pm. Apply in store or call Fairhope Health Foods 251-9280644. Sunflower Café 251-929-0055.

Classes/Training

ADVERTISE your classes or training here.

For Rent/Lease

ADVERTISE your rentals or leases here.

For Sale

ADVERTISE anything you’d like to sell here.

Opportunities

OPPORTUNITY TO WORK ONCE A MONTH distributing Natural Awakenings Gulf Coast magazines in Mobile, AL. Must have clean driving record, reliable transportation and be available the last week of every month. Call Veronica Miller 251-422-9114.

Services

THE MOBILE MEDIUM: Marie Bates Curry offers intuitive guidance, insight and spiritual connections all within the white light of God. Individual and group readings are available by appointment. 251-300-7261. MarieBatesCurry.wordpress.com.

HIRE YOUR OWN HEALTH & WELLNESS PERFORMANCE COACH: Are you struggling to prioritize your health best practices in meal planning, daily exercise, managing stress and sleep? Michelle Smith, Board Certified Functional Medicine Health Coach, will take you by the hand to design a weekly ACTION PLAN. Find out how. 251-635-6250 or TryMyCoach@gmail.com.

For questions or to appear in the calendar, email MichelleS@NAGulfCoast.com by the 10th of the previous month. Free, online-only calendar listings may be submitted anytime at NAGulfCoast.com/calendar.

Sunday

Discounts on Supplements – Every Sunday 15% off supplements at Fairhope Health Foods (251-928-0644) and Virginia’s Health Foods (251-479-3952). 280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center, Fairhope, AL and 3055-A Dauphin St, Mobile, AL. VAFairhopeHealthFoods.com.

Fairhope Unitarian Sunday Service – 11amnoon. Held inside and streamed on Zoom. Different guest speakers each week—either a member of our congregation or someone from the surrounding community. Fairhope Unitarian Fellowship, 1150 Fairhope Ave, Fairhope, AL. FairhopeUnitarian Fellowship@gmail.com. FairhopeUU.org.

Mobile Bay Makers Market – 10am-3pm, 2nd and 4th Sundays, March 10-December 15. FREE, open air, sustainably driven market showcasing 100+ local artisans and growers. Local musicians and food trucks. Family and dog friendly. South Park next to Fairhope Pier, Fairhope, AL. MBMakersMarket@gmail.com.

Monday

Forever Young, Ocean Springs, MS –11:30am-12:30pm Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. For Senior adults, this class starts with an assessment which measures balance, flexibility, strength, posture and cognition. $125 per month. Naturally Guided Health, 809B Holcomb Blvd, Ocean Springs, MS. NaturallyGuidedHealth.com or 228-215-0909.

S. Alexander Integrative Bodywork –Energy Balancing Class – 5:30-6:30pm. Experience the power of energy balancing and discover a renewed sense of harmony and vitality. Using sound healing, crystal healing and aromatherapy, this transformative practice promotes balance and restores your inner well-being. Embrace the positive energy and embark on a journey of rejuvenation. $20. Space is limited. 1260 Dauphin St, Mobile, AL. Book online at SAlexanderBodywork.com.

Mark Your Calendar

EARTH DAY MOBILE BAY

Fairhope Pier Park

SATURDAY, APRIL 20TH

FREE FAMILY FUN 10am - 6pm

LIVE MUSIC: Grayson Capps Band • NUE Bicycle • Swamp Water Symphony

Grits-N-Greens. Visit our Reptile Bus and Environmental Exhibits.

Sponsored by the Sierra Club and the City of Fairhope.

For more information

EarthDayMobileBay.org

Wednesday

Forever Young, Ocean Springs, MS –11:30am-12:30pm Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. For Senior adults, this class starts with an assessment which measures balance, flexibility, strength, posture and cognition. $125 per month. Naturally Guided Health, 809B Holcomb Blvd, Ocean Springs, MS. NaturallyGuidedHealth.com or 228-215-0909.

Friday

Forever Young, Ocean Springs, MS –11:30am-12:30pm Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. For Senior adults, this class starts with an assessment which measures balance, flexibility, strength, posture and cognition. $125 per month. Naturally Guided Health, 809B Holcomb Blvd, Ocean Springs, MS. NaturallyGuidedHealth.com or 228-215-0909.

Mark Your Calendar

View our full calendar online at NAGulfCoast.com/calendar.

Evening of Restoration, Ocean Springs, MS – 7-8pm, 1st Mondays unless holiday. Join us for a meditation journey that wakes up your soul and gives you exactly what you need in the moment. Destress, increase concentration, decrease anxiety and lower blood pressure with this practice. Dress comfortably, sweat pants or jammies welcome. Bring yoga mat, meditation pillow or blanket. $10. Naturally Guided Health, 809B Holcomb Blvd, Ocean Springs, MS. NaturallyGuidedHealth.com or 228-215-0909.

EAT-COOK-LIVE Interactive workshop & healthy cooking class

TUESDAY, JUNE 4

11am – 3pm @Jubilee Suites in Fairhope

$179 will reserve your spot to include ‘Food As Medicine’ workshop, mocktails, healthy, delicious lunch and dessert.

Join Kristin Alpine, RN, BSN and Michelle Smith, Functional Medicine Health Coach to learn how nutritious colorful food can heal your body!

Call or email Michelle 251-635-6250 or TryMyCoach@gmail.com.

See ad with registration code, page 4.

Community Resource Guide

Connecting you to local resources for natural and green living. To find out how you can be included in the directory, email MichelleS@NAGulfCoast.com or call 251-990-9552.

Beauty

TMAC’S HAIR STUDIO

Old Government, Mobile: 251-607-6666 2101 Hwy. 98, Daphne: 251-725-4334

TMACsHairStudio.com

A relaxing salon environment that is free of harmful chemicals, impurities and fragrance. Offering customized hair services and regenerative treatments with 100% vegan organic products and essential oils. Ask about following the lunar calendar effective hair treatments. See ad, page 29.

Biofeedback Services

THERMOGRAPHY ADVANTAGE

Carolyn Olson, Owner, Therapist

Laura Worthington, Assistant, Therapist Mobile & Foley (other locations by request) 251-623-2225

Offering multiple biofeedback services such as the AO Scan Technology by Solex™, which includes the scan, consultation and custom imprinted patches that can be worn 24 hours a day to continue frequency balancing, along with listening to daily frequencies on your smartphone. AO Scan provides impactful results as does EVOX BY ZYTO emotional therapy. Call today to determine which service will best meet your needs. The first AO Scan is complimentary. See ad, page 11.

Bioresonance Therapy

HARMONIC HEALTH ALABAMA

9930 Milton Jones Rd., Daphne, AL 251-374-7707

HarmonicHealthAlabama.com

Harmonic Health Alabama features the Harmonic Egg, a science-based, sound and light therapy for physical, emotional and spiritual energy healing. Please call, text or visit our website for more information. See ad, page 11.

Breast Screening

THERMOGRAPHY ADVANTAGE

Carolyn Olson, Certified Thermographer Mobile & Foley (other locations by request) 251-623-2225

ThermographyAdvantage.com

FDA registered thermography offers breast/fullbody screenings that are non-invasive and radiation-free, without compression or bodily contact. Valuable for detecting early-stage breast disease and more. Also offering Electro-Lymphatic Therapy. See ad, page 11.

CBD Health & Wellness

FAIRHOPE HEALTH FOODS

280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center 251-928-0644

Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

Comprehensive health food store offering a range of CBD products: caps, soft gels, gummies, sprays, tinctures, topicals, mixed with ghee, teas, waters, hot cocoa, infused honey, pedicure powders. See ad, page 19.

VIRGINIA’S HEALTH FOODS

3055 A Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 251-479-3952

Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

Comprehensive health food store offering a range of CBD products: caps, soft gels, tablets, gummies, sprays, tinctures, topicals, mixed with ghee, teas, waters, hot cocoa, infused honey, pedicure powders. See ad, page 19.

Community Fellowship

FAIRHOPE UNITARIAN FELLOWSHIP

1150 Fairhope Ave., Fairhope, AL 251-929-3207 • FairhopeUU.org

FairhopeUnitarianFellowship@gmail.com

Welcoming people of any age, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status or cultural background. We seek truth and knowledge, care for the Earth and show kindness to others while creating an atmosphere of love.

Dementia Help

MIND PERFORMANCE CENTER, LLC

112 West Section Ave., Foley, AL

251-597-8787

MindPerformanceCenter.com

Drugs are not the only answer. Our unique approach is non-invasive and has helped dementia patients that originally scored poorly on cognitive assessments restore to normal scoring on the same assessment. See ad, page 5.

Depression Relief

MIND PERFORMANCE CENTER, LLC

112 West Section Ave., Foley, AL 251-597-8787

MindPerformanceCenter.com

We can reduce or eliminate symptoms of depression. Our treatments often deliver improvement when nothing else has worked. 70% of our depression patients see symptoms reduced by at least 50%. See ad, page 5.

Detox Spa

HYDRO ZEN AT PEAK ALKALINITY

217-B Fairhope Ave., Fairhope, AL 251-270-7200

PeakAlkalinity.com

Offering cleansing far infrared sauna sessions followed by a hydrating collagen shower. Plus alkaline water and alkaline water systems, ionic foot detox, Himalayan salt therapy and revitalizing oxygen bar. Ask about package specials. See ad, page 13

Energy Healing

HARMONIC HEALTH ALABAMA

9930 Milton Jones Rd., Daphne, AL 251-374-7707

HarmonicHealthAlabama.com

Harmonic Health Alabama features the Harmonic Egg, a science-based, sound and light therapy for physical, emotional and spiritual energy healing. Please call, text or visit our website for more information. See ad, page 11

S. ALEXANDER INTEGRATIVE BODYWORK

Susan Cameron, Certified Chakra Balancing 1260 Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 224-213-3018 • SAlexanderBodywork.com

S. Alexander Integrative Bodywork is rooted in the belief that we have the innate ability to facilitate our own healing. Offering crystal healing, sound healing & aromatherapy, as well as a variety of massage modalities to assist you in your physical & energetic healing journey. See ad, page 14

SACRED FIRE WELLNESS

Cindy Sabogal, Certified Reiki Healer 21040 Miflin Rd., Ste. 7, Foley, AL 251-504-5171 • Find Us on Facebook

Sacred Fire Wellness Reiki Studio is a place of healing, using Eastern based energy and sound therapy for physical, emotional and spiritual well being. Please call or text to book an appointment or for more information. See ad, page 29

THE NEW YOU MIRACLE BAND

Jeff Nursey, Customer Service 850-207-6621

TheNewYouMiracleBand@gmail.com tnymb.com

Change your frequency, change your life! Our healing jewelry has an integrated charged disk to protect against 5G and EMFs along with the added benefits of alleviating pain and improving strength and balance. See ad, back cover

Farmers Markets

COASTAL ALABAMA FARMERS & FISHERMENS MARKET

781 Farmers Market Ln., Foley, AL 251-709-4469

CoastalAlabamaMarket.com

Open year-round on Saturdays only, 9am-2pm. Featuring local farms with seasonal produce, meat, eggs, honey, jellies, baked goods, seafood, hand-crafted soaps and more. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest

NATURE NINE FARMS, LLC

Foley, AL

NatureNineFarms.com

100% sustainable farming practices. Your source for local, ethically grown food. Pasture raised eggs, grass fed and finished beef. Find us at your local Piggly Wiggly Fairhope, Greers Markets or order online at NatureNineFarms. com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Food & Nutrition

A BETTER WAY HEALTH FOOD STORE

Dr. Mary Sabal, DC, RN 7857 Hwy 59, Foley, AL 251-955-5322 • ABetterWayHealth.net

Complete health food store with full-service human and pet products (alkaline pet food), vitamins, supplements and nutritious snacks. Additional health and wellness services include hyperbaric oxygen therapy, chiropractic, acupuncture, hair tissue mineral analysis and affordable non-invasive stem cell therapy. Call for an appointment. See ad, page 8.

FAIRHOPE HEALTH FOODS AND THE SUNFLOWER CAFÉ

280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center 251-928-0644 • Café: 251-929-0055 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

Comprehensive health food store and organic café serving the public for 40+ years. Extensive supplement selection: organic groceries, produce and meats; bath and body products; bulk bins; pet supplies; baby products; CBD and more. See ad, page 19.

PRESS & CO.

Organic, cold-pressed juicery and eatery 711 Belrose Ave., Daphne, AL 251-314-0778 • PressNCo.com

Accessible, delicious and nutritious options for people who want to make healthier choices. Committed to serving a wide range of healthy food options, including plant-based, gluten-free and low-sugar. Open 7 days a week 7am to 2:30pm. Breakfast, lunch, smoothies, coffee, tea, juice. Come in or order online. See Healthy Eats guide or see ad, page 21.

VIRGINIA’S HEALTH FOODS AND THE SUNFLOWER CAFÉ II

3055 A Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 251-479-3952

Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

Comprehensive health food store and organic café serving the public for 40+ years. Extensive supplement selection: organic groceries, produce and meats; bath and body products; bulk bins; pet supplies; baby products; CBD and more. See ad, page 19.

Functional Medicine

GOOD LIFE HEALTH & WELLNESS COACHING

Board Certified Functional Medicine

Health & Wellness Coach

251-635-6250 •

TryMyCoach@gmail.com

GoodLifeHealthCoaching.com

Attention health-conscious men and women struggling to prioritize things that will prolong your life— healthy meals, exercise, recovery. Health Coaches help you make changes when change is hard, in all areas of your life. I’ll offer guidance + tools that work. See ad, page 27.

HILLSTAR HEALTH

28720 Hwy. 98, Ste. 1, Daphne, AL 251-241-4346

HillstarHealthAl.com

Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner Tara McLellan addresses the root cause of disease with integrative medicine—a blend of traditional western medicine and science-based functional medicine. Ask about our custom weight loss program. See ad, page 13.

MANYA WHOLE HEALTH & YOGA

109 Upham St., Mobile, AL 251-408-9980

DrManjaPodratz.com

Holistic health coaching with an emphasis on brain-based wellness and hormone balance. Services based on quantum medicine principles. Holistic breast cancer prevention and complementary services for cancer patients. Private and group coaching, corporate wellness programs and monthly health talks. Healing is possible with the right support. See ad, page 11

Healing Jewelry

THE NEW YOU MIRACLE BAND

Jeff Nursey, Customer Service

850-207-6621

TheNewYouMiracleBand@gmail.com tnymb.com

Change your frequency, change your life! Our jewelry has an integrated charged disk to protect against 5G and EMFs along with the added benefits of alleviating pain and improving strength and balance. See ad, back cover.

Health & Wellness Clinic

CONNEXUS CLINIC

2864 Dauphin St., Ste A Mobile, AL 36606 251-300-8724 • TheConnexusClinic.com

A wellness clinic specializing in weight loss, body sculpting, lymphatic compression and infrared sauna therapy in a safe, compassionate environment. Live better. Look better. Perform better. See ad, page 32

ENRG WELLNESS

3099 Loop Rd., Orange Beach, AL 620 N. McKenzie St., Ste. 200, Foley, AL 251-943-9355 • enrGWellness.com

Pilates, weight loss, fat burning systems, food programs, vitamin IV therapy lounge, chiropractic and functional medicine clinic. Custom programs include nutrition, medication and peptide combo. IV vitamin therapies provide relief, healing and recovery for people with health concerns ranging from dehydration to chronic illness. Free onsite consultations. See ad, page 7.

Health & Wellness Performance

GOOD LIFE HEALTH COACHING

Board Certified Functional Medicine Health & Wellness Coach

251-635-6250 • TryMyCoach@gmail.com

GoodLifeHealthCoaching.com

Attention health-conscious men and women struggling to prioritize things that will prolong your life— healthy meals, exercise, recovery. Health Coaches help you make changes when change is hard, in all areas of your life. I’ll offer guidance + tools that work. See ad, page 27.

HYDRO ZEN AT PEAK ALKALINITY

217-B Fairhope Ave., Fairhope, AL 251-270-7200

PeakAlkalinity.com

Offering cleansing far infrared sauna sessions followed by a hydrating collagen shower. Plus alkaline water and alkaline water systems, ionic foot detox, Himalayan salt therapy and revitalizing oxygen bar. Ask about package specials. See ad, page 13

Hypnotherapy

ENERGY MODEL OF THERAPEUTIC CHANGE

Mary Beth Svatek, M.A.

Certified Hypnotherapist, IMDHA 251-300-9912

EnergyModelOfChange@gmail.com

35 years’ experience with anxiety, PTSD, weight loss, smoking cessation, removing blockages, regression, behavior modification, energy healing & streamlining, pain management. See ad, page 27.

Lymphatic Drainage

THERMOGRAPHY ADVANTAGE

Carolyn Olson, Certified Lymphatic Therapist

Mobile & Foley (other locations by request) 251-623-2225

ThermographyAdvantage.com

Electro-Lymphatic Therapy is noninvasive, painless and calming. Like a light touch massage, the certified lymphatic therapist uses two small handheld wands that are lightly moved across the body in a direction that correlates to the body’s lymphatic flow. The proper flow of lymphatic fluid can help with conditions such as inflammation, colds/flu, sinus problems, edema, water retention, heart disease, fibrocystic and tender breast, cellulite, enlarged prostate and cancer. See ad, page 11.

Massage Therapy

ELEMENTS MASSAGE

6920 Airport Blvd., Ste. 111, Mobile, AL 251-342-6415

ElementsMassage.com/Mobile

A therapeutic massage handcrafted just for you. Reduced stress, elevated mood and a strengthened immune system are all part of experiencing a therapeutic massage The Elements Way. Schedule an appointment today. See ad, page 33.

JUBILEE HEALING ARTS

Jennifer (Adams) Killgo, LMT #3263

28170 N. Main St., Ste. C, Daphne, AL 251-616-4201 • JubileeHealingArts.com

Intuitive integrative massage techniques are used to facilitate the body into a state of healing without the “no pain no gain” mentality. Over 15 years’ experience in the bodywork and natural wellness field.

What about naming trees? … If we have a tree in our name, we want that tree to live.

—Jane Goodall

S. ALEXANDER INTEGRATIVE BODYWORK

Susan Cameron, LMT 1260 Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 224-213-3018 • SAlexanderBodywork.com

S. Alexander Integrative Bodywork is rooted in the belief that we have the innate ability to facilitate our own healing. Offering crystal healing, sound healing & aromatherapy, as well as a variety of massage modalities to assist you in your physical & energetic healing journey. See ad, page 14

Personal Growth

ENERGY MODEL OF THERAPEUTIC CHANGE

Mary Beth Svatek, M.A.

Certified Hypnotherapist, IMDHA 251-300-9912

EnergyModelOfChange@gmail.com

35 years’ experience with anxiety, PTSD, weight loss, smoking cessation, removing blockages, regression, behavior modification, energy healing & streamlining, pain management. See ad, page 27.

Pet Health

A BETTER WAY HEALTH FOOD STORE

Dr. Mary Sabal, DC, RN 7857 Hwy 59, Foley, AL 251-955-5322 • ABetterWayHealth.net

Complete health food store with full-service human and pet products (alkaline pet food), vitamins, supplements and nutritious snacks. Additional health and wellness services include hyperbaric oxygen therapy, chiropractic, acupuncture, hair tissue mineral analysis and affordable non-invasive stem cell therapy. Call for an appointment. See ad, page 8.

Pilates

ENRG WELLNESS

3099 Loop Rd., Orange Beach, AL 620 N. McKenzie St., Ste. 200, Foley, AL 251-943-9355 • enrGWellness.com

Pilates, weight loss, fat burning systems, food programs, vitamin IV therapy lounge, chiropractic and functional medicine clinic. Custom programs include nutrition, medication and peptide combo. IV vitamin therapies provide relief, healing and recovery for people with health concerns ranging from dehydration to chronic illness. Free onsite consultations.

See ad, page 7.

Plant-Based Food

THE SUNFLOWER CAFÉ

320 Eastern Shore Shopping Center, Fairhope, AL • 251-929-0055

Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

An organic café offering vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and dairyfree options. Open for lunch daily.

See ad, page 19

THE SUNFLOWER CAFÉ II

3055 A Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 251-479-3952

Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

An organic café offering vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and dairyfree options. Open for lunch daily.

See ad, page 19.

Reiki

SACRED FIRE WELLNESS

Cindy Sabogal, Certified Reiki Healer 21040 Miflin Rd., Ste. 7, Foley, AL 251-504-5171 • Find Us on Facebook

Sacred Fire Wellness Reiki Studio is a place of healing, using Eastern-based energy and sound therapy for physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Please call or text to book an appointment or for more information. See ad, page 29

Rolfing

EASTERN SHORE ROLFING

Pam Reaves, Certified Rolfer® 22806 Hwy. 98, Fairhope, AL 706-681-2935 • EasternShoreRolfing.com

Rolfing® is a holistic approach to manual therapy that seeks to improve your health and function by reestablishing the natural alignment and structural integration of the human body.

See ad, page 29.

Somatic Breathwork

EASTERN SHORE ROLFING

Pam Reaves, Certified Rolfer® 22806 Hwy. 98, Fairhope, AL 706-681-2935 • EasternShoreRolfing.com

Rolfing® is a holistic approach to manual therapy that seeks to improve your health and function by reestablishing the natural alignment and structural integration of the human body. Now offering Somatic Breath Therapy. Based on the work of Peter Levine, Somatic Therapy helps release stored negative emotions that have been trapped in the body. See ad, page 29.

RESPIRA WITH MORGAN

Morgan Tyner, (Bilingual) SomatIQ Breathwork Practitioner

Fairhope, AL • 901-581-0434

Somatic@MorganTyner.com

Corporate wellness groups, retreats and events: SomatIQ Breathwork is a transformative wellness practice that releases suppressed stress from the body utilizing two breathing techniques. It empowers you to clear mental and emotional blockages, leading to enhanced clarity, wellness and more harmonious alignment in personal wellness and purpose. See ad, page 8.

Wellness Studio— Fairhope

DEXAFIT - FAIRHOPE

Located inside CONNEXUS CLINIC 23937 Hwy 98, Ste. 3, Fairhope, AL 251-929-8233 • DexaFitFairhope.com

A wellness studio focusing on body composition analysis, metabolic testing and smart gym resistance training. Guiding you toward a leaner, stronger and healthier self with AI-enhanced DEXA scans, VO2max tests, RMR analysis, Smart Gym workouts and more. See ad, page 32

Wellness Studio— Ocean Springs

NATURALLY GUIDED HEALTH

Personal Trainer; Board Certified Health Coach; Traditional Naturopath 809B Holcomb Blvd., Ocean Springs, MS 228-215-0909 • NaturallyGuidedHealth.com

A wellness studio offering personal training, group classes, coaching and education. Specialize in mature adults, post injury/ surgery recovery and compassionate coaching. Check out our Forever Young class.

Yoga

MANYA WHOLE HEALTH & YOGA

109 Upham St., Mobile, AL 251-408-9980 • YogaWithManja.com

DrManjaPodratz.com

Private, group, and corporate yoga classes, health coaching and retreats. Additional offerings: Reiki, Yoga Nidra, auriculotherapy, meditation classes, monthly crystal bowl sound bath and guided breathwork to erase limiting beliefs and painful trauma and help you blossom. Healing is possible with the right support. See ad, page 11