May 2024 Natural Awakenings Twin Cities Magazine

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TWIN CITIES EDITION

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As we embrace the ever-present rhythm of change, the shifting seasons serve as vivid reminders. It’s no coincidence that we celebrate Mother’s Day amidst spring’s renewal and rejuvenation. The vibrant hues of daffodils, tulips and hyacinths first paint the landscape, and budding trees and green grass soon follow. Just as nature blooms anew, mothers infuse our lives with color and vitality.

Mothers do the ordinary, extraordinarily. They’re our teachers and mentors, multitaskers and nurturers, guiding us through life’s myriad experiences. Their love teaches us generosity, their care fosters growth, and their wisdom nurtures both ourselves and our planet.

To all mothers, we extend our deepest love and reverence this Mother’s Day. And to all women and mothers at heart, we embrace and honor your presence in our lives.

Beyond motherhood, we extend gratitude to the countless women who shape our broader community. From integrative wellness providers and holistic health practitioners to business leaders and eco-conscious advocates, their contributions ripple through our collective well-being.

At Natural Awakenings, we’re immensely proud of our loyal readers and friends who value everything we stand for: mind, body and spiritual wellness; holistic health and natural wellness that addresses health from a root-cause approach; and eco-friendly lifestyles that are inherently less toxic and more sustainable. Thank you for supporting people and businesses that are making these things happen every single day.

In this Women’s Wellness issue, discover insights into hormone health, environmental well-being and the healing power of massage. Explore our wellness events and connect with our advertising partners that can inspire and support your journey toward a happier, healthier life. We wouldn’t exist without their support or yours. Every issue we create is an empowering resource encompassing holistic wellness, sustainable living, and nurturing our planet. We put our hearts into it every time.

May this issue inspire and empower you in every aspect of your well-being journey.

Jordan Peschek, RN-BSN, Publisher

Jordan Peschek, RN, Publisher

Cover image by Adrian Grosu for Adobe Stock

Anoka-Ramsey Community College

Therapeutic Massage Program Expands into New Space

During the 2023-24 academic year, the Therapeutic Massage program on Anoka-Ramsey Community College’s Coon Rapids Campus moved into a new space to evolve with the program.

The Therapeutic Massage diploma is the only award of its kind to be offered at Anoka-Ramsey, giving students a unique alternative to traditional two-year and four-year degree programs. Anoka-Ramsey added the Therapeutic Massage program to its Allied Health offerings in the fall of 2018.

Students can study in small classes with hands-on training and receive one-on-one instruction from Anoka-Ramsey faculty, who are extensively trained and experienced as massage therapists.

Each course prepares students for career success in the diverse employment opportunities waiting for them in the health and wellness industries. Courses meet all the requirements in preparation for the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx).

Fall semester at Anoka-Ramsey starts Aug. 26. To learn more about the Therapeutic Massage diploma and other Allied Health programs, visit AnokaRamsey.edu/AlliedHealth See ad on page 13.

Mind Body Soul Celebrates Seven Years of Integrative Wellness

Mind Body Soul marks their seventh anniversary of assisting clients in finding healing through an integrative approach. Founded by natural health practitioner Dori Trossen, Mind Body Soul uses modalities such as health and nutrition coaching, personal training, energy therapy, chromotherapy, infrared and vitamin D light, sound therapy and materials testing to unlock the body’s natural ability to heal in a supportive and engaging environment.

Trossen trained as a natural health coach and nutrition coach with the Institute of Integrative Nutrition. She is a certified personal trainer through the American Council of Exercise. She uses her experience and a gentle, compassionate approach to help her clients find healing.

Mind Body Soul is located in Maple Grove. For more information, call 763-639-9133, email MindBodySoulLLC@yahoo.com or visit BalancedDori.com See ad on page 7.

Naturopathic Doctor Krissy Haglund Accepting New Patients for Mental Health Services

Dr. Krissy Haglund is accepting new patients at her practice, Natural Mental Healthcare, based in Savage. Through a natural approach, Haglund looks for root causes of imbalances within the body that can lead to anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorder, autism, behavioral disorders, postpartum depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Haglund’s approach towards care involves a combination of nutrition, botanicals, supplements, hydrotherapy, homeopathy and biotherapeutic drainage to naturally rebalance the brain. In addition, she offers hyperbaric oxygen therapy, a non-invasive treatment in which a patient enters a pressurized chamber and breathes in concentrated oxygen. This can help stimulate stem cell growth, reduce inflammation and enhance detoxification, and can be used to help conditions such as depression, anxiety, autism, attention deficit disorder and more.

Haglund obtained her Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree and certificate in natural childbirth from National University of Natural Medicine, in Portland. “I live for the purpose of helping others live their best lives,” she says.

During May and June, Haglund is offering a complimentary four-ounce Hawthorn tincture (retail $25) to new patients.

For more information, call 952-226-4221, email DrKrissy.NMD@gmail.com or visit DrKrissy.com See ad on page 7.

Dori Trossen

Dr. Krissy Haglund

Choosing Life Over Death: Using Food as Medicine to Heal

Susane Moua’s journey with iEat4Health began after a serendipitous encounter at a bookstore in January 2022. Her daughter Cali had struggled with intractable epilepsy for 12 years, prompting Susane to explore holistic healing through food after reading “Choose Life or Death” by Dr. Carey Reams.

Susane Moua

According to Dr. Reams, “All disease is a result of a mineral deficiency.” This revelation prompted Moua to explore alternative holistic healing methods. Conventional treatments had failed to reduce her daughter’s 30 or more daily seizures. Moua then learned non-invasive biochemical testing to reveal vitamin and mineral deficiencies that impact a person’s health and energy. Guided by Dr. Reams’ principles and eight laws of health, Moua identified deficiencies in Cali’s body chemistry and adjusted Cali’s diet accordingly. This led to significant improvements. Within 28 months, Cali’s seizures decreased to five or fewer daily, alongside enhancements in energy, cognition, attention span, memory and overall well-being.

Susane Moua also improved her own health by addressing her biochemical needs through dietary changes, leading to weight management and restored hormonal balance.

Inspired by these transformative outcomes, iEat4Health now offers consultations and biochemical tests for clients seeking health improvements. By addressing mineral and vitamin needs and by using food as medicine, clients have reported increased energy, alleviated symptoms, better overall health and a newfound sense of relief.

Interested individuals can schedule a free 30-minute consultation with Susane to explore food’s healing potential further.

For more information on iEat4Health, LLC’s services, or to schedule a free consultation with Susane Moua, visit IEat4Health.com, call 651-412-4699, or email IEat4Health@gmail.com. See ad on this page.

You

A Rise in Adult Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergies are not just a concern for children and can develop or worsen as we age. According to Dr. Gailen Marshall, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, the prevalence of seasonal allergies among adults has increased, with about a quarter of U.S. adults reporting allergies compared to 19 percent of children.

Allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies harmless substances such as pollen or grass as threats, leading to symptoms like sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes. Moving to a different region with different pollen seasons can also trigger adult-onset allergies. Societal and environmental shifts such as climate change, globalization and air pollution have contributed to the increased prevalence of allergies among individuals of all ages.

While it is possible for children to outgrow their allergies, it is more challenging for adults to do so. Lifestyle changes, such as spending more time indoors or moving to another region, may help some individuals see improvement in their symptoms. Immunotherapy, which involves gradually exposing the person to small amounts of their allergen, is known to be an effective treatment for allergies regardless of when symptoms start.

Trends in Non-Alcoholic Drinking Habits

A 2023 Gallup Poll found that 62 percent of adults aged 18 to 35 say they drink alcoholic beverages, down from 72 percent two decades ago. The poll noted that young adults also drink less frequently and are less likely to drink to excess. As a result, bars like Happy Accidents, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, are increasing non-alcoholic options to cater to young consumers. The bar offers five mocktails that use ingredients such as matcha, garam masala and capsaicin oils to create complex and flavorful alcohol-free alternatives.

Mingle Mocktails was created by a recovering alcoholic looking for a way to feel included during social outings while choosing not to drink alcohol. Mingle offers flavors such as Key Lime Margarita and Cucumber Melon Mojito that are available in readyto-drink cans, as well as in bottles for more premium mixing. NielsenIQ reports consistent double-digit growth in the nonalcoholic beer, wine and spirits market. The movement toward non-boozy alternatives is praised by experts for its positive impact on health and well-being, including improved sleep, energy, mental clarity, immunity and mood.

Svetlana Parnikova from Getty Images/CanvaPro

Olga

Kochina 5PH/CanvaPro

We Have a Choice

In times like today, when every aspect of society seems to be in chaos, one easy response is to escape—through

drugs, alcohol, comfort food, non-stop entertainment or any other convenient mind-numbing practice Many are defaulting to this “cure” for their discomfort. Others, feeling insecure, angry, and demanding change, agitate to take society back to what they remember as the “good old days ” They may not be clear about what exactly made the past better, but are more than willing to listen to people who place the blame for current troubles anywhere but where it actually belongs: on economic inequality and injustice.

A Major Transition

Most of us forget that another choice is possible. We can create a future completely di erent from the present or the past—one that expresses our most deeply felt desires to live together in peace, happiness, and prosperity. In fact, this choice is being reinforced, or perhaps stimulated, by the planetary energies now at play We are currently in the midst of a major transition between two ages moving from the Age of Pisces into the Age of Aquarius, and such transitions tend to create chaos as the energies of the two constellations involved compete with each other The energies of Pisces support individuality and devotion to separate religions or causes, while Aquarian energies promote cooperation, group e orts, synthesis, and brotherhood. As our planet moves closer to Aquarius, the

polarization and divisions among people and ideas will diminish, and we will find more common ground

So, now is the time to take advantage of the energies and to put forth visions of a world that would benefit all people—not just a few. In mundane terms, we need to expand the “Overton window”—the range of ideas that voters find acceptable—to include ideas that are not currently in the public eye—ideas that might at first be considered idealistic or even impossible to attain. For politicians to support policies outside of the window would be political suicide, as they would not be seen as legitimate options by society Therefore, since it’s politicians who will be deciding the policies that will determine our future, we need to voice our desires for the kind of world we want, to make sure they are among the available options in the public discourse

The Key: A Unified Vision of Sharing and Justice

How do we bring our ideas forward? The key is to have a unified vision, to voice it in large numbers, and to do so powerfully Fortunately, we don’t have to do this alone We have help in the form of the great spiritual teacher—Maitreya by name who is here to accompany our transition into the Aquarian age, and we will see him soon He has said that peace can be established and our societal ills transformed by simply sharing planetary resources more equitably, creating justice in every societal institution, and restoring and

preserving our environment. We can count on him to galvanize people of goodwill to champion these priorities when he appears publicly, but we can start now.

We can talk about the future we want to our friends and relatives, call and write the president and our Congressional representatives on a regular basis about it, and spread the ideas through our social media outlets There is power in numbers, and the 99% of us non-wealthy are by definition the majority We just need to project our vision of sharing and justice powerfully in as unified a way as possible everywhere, and together we can create a future that works for everyone

For free information: Share-international.us 888-242-8272 info@share-international.us

Free Download!

TO DOWNLOAD: bit.ly/world-teacher or scan QR code with your smart phone camera

In The World Teacher for All Humanity, Benjamin Creme discusses the extraordinary ramifications of Maitreya’s appearance and teachings. Awaken to a world of infinite possibility if we’re all willing to share!

How to Increase Energy Levels Naturally Without Caffeine

by Jack Cincotta

A recent survey from the International Food Information Council shows that 93% of Americans consume caffeine on a daily basis, with 45% using it to feel more awake and alert. Moderate caffeine consumption is fine. However, constantly using high amounts of caffeine to overcome fatigue without knowing the underlying root causes can cause problems over time.

Fortunately, there are some simple ways to have more energy naturally throughout the day which can help reduce or even eliminate caffeine consumption.

The most obvious way to improve energy levels is to get enough sleep, which is seven to eight hours for most individuals. Of course, this has to be high-quality sleep, which is done by practicing good sleep hygiene and maintaining a

consistent sleep/wake schedule. Also, if one’s schedule allows, a quick 20-minute power nap or relaxation session can be helpful for powering through the rest of the day. As little as five minutes yields benefits.

Another way to increase energy is through nutrition. Many people undereat during the day and have a large dinner at night. Shifting more calories and nutrients towards breakfast and lunch can provide greater energy and minimize energy dips.

Lastly, a balanced exercise is key to balancing energy. For people with low energy, vigorous exercise can be draining. Thus, light to moderate exercise like brisk walking is a better choice, because it energizes the body without causing unnecessary stress.

Jack Cincotta, is an AADP board-certified holistic health practitioner and AFPA-certified holistic health coach. For more information, call 920-650-7674, email Jack@ JackCincotta.com or visit JackCincotta.com See listing on page 30.

We Are The Medicine Flower Moon Gathering:

Celebrate Wellness, Nature and Self-Discovery

We Are The Medicine Flower Moon Gathering is a three-day celebration of wellness, nature and self-discovery starting on May 24th. This transformative event will take place on a serene 103-acre natural setting, offering attendees a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a supportive community of like-minded individuals.

Participants can look forward to a range of activities designed to empower and connect them with their true selves. These activities include yoga sessions, transformational workshops, meditation circles, sound baths, nature walks, obstacle courses, kayaking, and personalized healing sessions either one-on-one or in groups.

Event organizer Katie Baughman expressed excitement about creating a space where individuals can come together, grow and celebrate life. Whether attendees opt for a day of rejuvenation or a weekend retreat in one of the comfortable on-site cabins, they’ll be surrounded by the natural beauty that enhances the experience.

In addition to the enriching activities, attendees can explore a variety of vendors offering mini spa services, tarot readings, henna art, aura scans, holistic health supplements and unique gifts. The event will also feature musical performances, ecstatic dance sessions, drum circles and DJs to create an atmosphere of joy and connection.

Baughman encourages everyone to discover their inner healing potential and embrace the supportive community at the gathering.

Space is limited; interested individuals can secure their tickets through Eventbrite.com

For more information visit MedicineMoon.net or reserve a spot at Tinyurl.com/WATMeventbrite. Event location: 3300 Tanadoona Drive, Excelsior, MN. See ad page on this page and back cover.

Creativity may be hard to nurture, but it’s easy to thwart.

—Adam Grant

Massage Therapy: A Natural and Enjoyable Way to Relax and Ease Pain

by Jordan Peschek

Massage therapy isn’t just a luxury; it’s a holistic approach to wellness that offers relaxation and pain relief. It is “therapy” for a reason: massage is a natural, non-invasive approach to helping people feel better physically, emotionally and energetically. Massage is a unique service that is not only a self-care treat, but also offers a host of health benefits.

Physical Benefits of Massage: Pain and Posture

With over 600 muscles in the body, pain is common, especially in areas like the back and neck. Massage eases pain, improves posture, and enhances emotional well-being. Research backs its efficacy in relieving back, neck, hip, knee, labor discomfort, cancer-related pain and more. The CDC reports that over 50 million people experience chronic pain, and it’s one of the most common complaints in older adults. Back pain and neck pain are considered to be significant public health problems. Up to 70% of college students experience back pain associated with long hours of sitting, according to a study from Colombia University, and a meta-analysis published in Health Promotion Perspectives estimate that 80% of people experience low-back pain at some point; prolonged sitting time and driving time are significant risk factors.

A massage therapist offers a hands-on approach to relax tense muscles and help improve musculoskeletal function. With better function, balance and realignment within the body, posture can improve and pain can decrease. Countless research studies demonstrate the effectiveness of massage therapy for pain relief of all sorts including back, neck, hip and knee pain as well as cancer pain and pain related to pregnancy, labor and cesarean sections.

For example, massage effectively reduced back pain and improved emotional well-being for older adults in a 2022 study published in Medical Science Pulse. A 2023 meta-analysis published in Medicine found massage therapy to effectively improve cancer pain. A study published in Explorer found massage therapy to significantly benefit patients with labor pain, and a 2021 randomized control trial showed significant improvements in postpartum pain with deep tissue massage following cesarean sections.

Mental and Emotional Benefits of Massage

Massage doesn’t just benefit physical health; it also improves mental and emotional well-being.

Pain and mental health are intertwined, and massage can significantly improve both. It reduces stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms, contributing to overall wellness. Studies published in Brain Sciences, Midwifery and many others demonstrate the positive impact of massage on pain and emotional health, including pregnant women and people of all ages. “I was always hesitant to get a massage, as I didn’t know what to expect,” states Lynn Peschek, who works full-time in a sedentary finance position. “But every time I get a massage, it feels relaxing yet rejuvenating at the same time. It feels like all of this bad stuff leaves my body!”

Massage therapists often have keen awareness of emotional and energetic stresses that contributes to pain and dysfunction. Pain is highly associated with frustration, stress and depressive symptoms, and massage has been shown to offer relief in pain, anxiety, depressive symptoms and more. By easing pain, coupled with a relaxing experience, emotional benefits often result quite naturally. Health benefits of massage tend to be cumulative with repeated sessions.

Ultimately, massage is a valuable addition to anyone’s self-care routine, offering personalized relaxation and pain relief. Whether a person simply wants some time to relax and destress, or they want to ease pain and tension on a deeper level, massage is something to consider. Consulting with a massage therapist can help tailor the experience to individual needs, ensuring maximum benefits.

Jordan Peschek is the publisher of Natural Awakenings Milwaukee magazine.

Photo by Jonathan Borba for pexels.com

Therapeutic Massage at Anoka-Ramsey Community

College

Embark on a fulfilling career path with Anoka-Ramsey Community College’s Therapeutic Massage program. This comprehensive diploma offers a unique opportunity for individuals passionate about clinical massage.

Empowering Opportunities

• Learn from experienced instructors in a small, hands-on learning environment.

• Participate in an internship and clinical massage practicum, providing real-world experience and fostering professional growth.

• Prepare to sit for national exams, paving the way for a seamless transition into the workforce with a highly recognized qualification.

Thrive in a Growing Industry

• Projected 28% employment growth for massage therapists.

• Explore diverse career prospects, from private practice to employment in medical facilities, wellness centers, hospice care, rehabilitation clinics and more.

The Road to Hormonal Harmony

Finding Balance and Thriving

by Marlaina Donato

Like a well-built home, the human body’s quality of life depends upon a sturdy foundation. A complex, hormonal matrix determines our vitality and impacts major areas of health, including growth and development, stamina, sleep cycles, bone health, blood sugar levels, fertility, weight and mood. Fifty hormones take turns keeping us alive, as well as impacting lesser concerns such as hair and skin quality.

Excessive stress, certain pharmaceutical medications, hormonal contraception, autoimmune diseases and, in rare instances, tumors can throw the body into metabolic chaos. Supporting these fundamental allies through lifestyle changes that include a nutrient-packed diet, improved gut health, supplementation and medication, when

needed, can help us get back on track. Most importantly, prevention is possible with the same approach.

“Hormones are the behind-the-scenes influencers, ensuring your body operates smoothly and adjusting to the ever-changing demands of your environment and internal states. When this delicate balance is thrown off, the consequences can be widespread, affecting virtually every aspect of your health,” affirms North Carolina-based hormone specialist Deborah Matthew, M.D., author of This Is Not Normal: A Busy Woman's Guide to Symptoms of Hormone Imbalance

Even a slight imbalance of certain hormones—whether a deficiency or an excess—can compromise digestion, raise

low-density lipoprotein (“bad” cholesterol), downgrade sex drive, foster cognitive issues, amp up anxiety and even affect heart rhythm. Lifestyle factors like smoking, poor diet and lack of exercise also play a role in disturbing equilibrium. Matthew explains, “Hormones are chemical messengers that coordinate many functions well beyond the realm of reproductive health. They are produced by your endocrine glands and circulate through your bloodstream, delivering critical instructions to every tissue and organ.”

Oxytocin and Other Key Players

Like orchestra players, hormones work together, but the hormone oxytocin is the conductor. Hormones such as estrogen and testosterone, as well as the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, cannot be produced or used properly without oxytocin. Good gut health also depends on it. “The most powerful hormone in our body, hands down, is oxytocin. It also happens to be an alkalinizing hormone and helps oppose the negative, chronic effects of cortisol, our stress hormone,” says Anna Cabeca, a triple-board-certified OB-GYN and author of The Hormone Fix, Keto-Green 16 and MenuPause. “Oxytocin is what we refer to as the love and bonding hormone. It’s also a longevity hormone—muscle-regenerating, mood-elevating, pain-relieving and immune-boosting. It is vital to have a high level of it if we want to boost and support the other hormones.”

Cabeca recommends boosting oxytocin naturally. “It can be as simple as thinking of something that puts a smile on your face, brings you joy and happiness, makes you laugh or gives you that warm fuzzy feeling inside,” she explains, adding that cultivating a sense of gratitude “will help boost your oxytocin level and reduce your stress hormone cortisol, which, when too high, leads to inflammation and acidity.” Her other goto oxytocin allies are funny movies, being in nature, hugs, intimacy, therapeutic massage and activities with others like yoga classes, hiking or team sports.

The symbiotic relationship between the thyroid and our stress-fighting adrenal glands is also fundamental in systemic harmony. A 2015 study published in European Thyroid Journal revealed that 5 percent of patients with autoimmune thyroid disease also had an underlying primary adrenal insufficiency. An older study published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism in 2009 showed that 41 percent of patients with compromised adrenal function also suffered from hypothyroidism.

“In today’s high-stress environment, our cortisol production can become dysregulated. This is often called ‘adrenal fatigue’, although that term is not recognized by the conventional medicine world,” says Matthew. “This cortisol dysregulation often results in profound tiredness, cravings for salt or sugar, reliance on caffeine for energy and difficulty handling stress.” She notes that despite its widespread occurrence, adrenal compromise slips between the cracks of conventional diagnosis. Recognizing the interconnectedness of bodily systems is vital.

“A holistic approach to thyroid and adrenal health considers the entire spectrum of an individual’s health, lifestyle and emotional well-being,” Matthew says. “Holistic practitioners often employ comprehensive testing to uncover subtle imbalances, utilize natural supplements like adaptogenic herbs to support function and recommend dietary and lifestyle changes that address underlying causes of thyroid and adrenal symptoms.”

Fertility Factors

For many, planning a family is one of life’s

high points, but according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 13 percent of married women under the age of 30 struggle to conceive; about 22 percent of married women between ages 30 and 39 are hit the hardest. The frustration can be agonizing. “I often say that infertility is not a diagnosis; it’s a symptom,” attests Aumatma Simmons, a double-board-certified naturopathic doctor, endocrinologist and fertility specialist at the Holistic Fertility Institute, in Berkeley, California. “When we consider infertility as a symptom, we start understanding that it is the check-engine light that our body is giving off, trying to tell us something is out of whack. Maybe it’s the hormones or something somewhere else in the body. The root causes must be discovered and addressed.”

Common contributors to infertility include amenorrhea (absent periods) caused by physical or emotional stress, weight extremes (obesity or underweight) and age. Simmons underscores the role of diet and lifestyle in both women and men. “It is well-researched that lifestyle habits like smoking, alcohol and marijuana can contribute to fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Additionally, there is ongoing research about the role of sedentary lifestyles and body mass index as potential indicators of pregnancy outcomes. Even blood sugar and inflammation in the male partner can impact fertility, as well as a woman’s ability to carry a pregnancy to term.”

Simmons directly attributes food habits to egg and sperm quality, asserting, “Diet is vital in the role of implantation. There are studies that have shown that gut inflammation contributes to uterine inflammation, which directly affects implantation and pregnancy outcomes.” She also connects the dots between the mental and emotional health of both parents and baby success. Negative talk, poor self-esteem, responsibility overload and an inability to let go or ask for help can also foster infertility.

What We Can Do

Taking a few steps toward a more balanced body can go a long way. Cabeca emphasizes,

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“Deep, restorative sleep is essential to regenerate and rebalance. Physical activity is absolutely necessary for hormone circulation throughout the blood and lymphatic system, so doing things that make you huff and puff and sweat daily is critical.” She also recommends alkalizing the diet by amping up hydration and fortifying meals with low-carbohydrate food sources, low-glycemic fruits like berries, leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables and sprouts. Adding intermittent fasting to the mix also packs a positive punch, especially as progesterone and estrogen levels decrease with age and we have a higher risk for developing insulin resistance.

Everyday foods for hormonal happiness include healthy, high-fat foods like avocados, raw butter, ghee, egg yolks (rich in choline and iodine for healthy thyroid function), soaked nuts and seeds, flaxseed, hemp and olive oil; clean proteins like quinoa, organic pasture-raised poultry and beef, wildcaught fish, lentils and beans; and spices like turmeric, cinnamon, cumin, garlic and fresh cilantro. Avoid trans fats, sugar and refined carbs, which trigger inflammation and disrupt hormonal balance.

Matthew recommends cortisol-lowering activities like meditation, yoga and breathwork, which help balance cortisol levels, improve our resilience to daily stressors and support overall hormonal health. She also stresses the importance of seven to nine hours of restful sleep by “establishing a consistent bedtime routine, minimizing exposure to blue light from screens before bedtime and creating a sleep-conducive environment in your bedroom. Many of your hormones are produced at night while you are in a deep sleep.” More shut-eye also regulates stress hormones and helps to repair the body’s cells and tissues.

Life is better when our bodies are happy, and change begins with small, inspired steps. Cabeca reminds us, “Create a life rhythm that works for you.”

Marlaina Donato is a visionary artist, composer, author of several books and long-time journalist for Natural Awakenings. Connect at BluefireStudio.art.

Balancing Gluten

Making Peace With an Oft-Maligned Ingredient

by Deborah Bevilacqua

The rise in prevalence of celiac disease and related conditions, and shifts toward paleo, keto and other gluten-free diets, have driven the gluten-free products market from $973 million in 2014 to $6.5 billion in 2022. The market for these products is expected to reach $15.1 billion by 2032 according to The Brainy Insights, a market research company. However, switching to gluten-free products is not a one-sizefits-all decision.

Celiac disease affects an estimated 1 percent or approximately 3 million Americans, although approximately 60 to 70 percent of those have not been diagnosed, according to the Celiac Disease Foundation. The illness is an autoimmune condition that results in tissue damage in the small intestine, which

may be accompanied by abdominal pain, gas and bloating, cognitive impairment, constipation, diarrhea, anxiety, fatigue, anemia, skin rashes and joint pain. It is diagnosed with blood tests and confirmed by taking pictures inside of the small intestine.

The National Institutes of Health report an additional 6 percent of Americans may have a related condition known as nonceliac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). While some symptoms of intolerance or sensitivity to gluten are similar to those with celiac disease, NCGS does not come with intestinal damage. Symptoms of NCGS also may occur outside the intestines such as heartburn, feelings of fullness, vomiting, headaches, anxiety, depression, a foggy mind and fibromyalgia-like symptoms.

For those allergic to wheat or other grains containing gluten or that have gluten-related disorders, permanently eliminating gluten is a must. This includes inhaling it, eating it and encountering it through skin or hair.

Gluten and the Gut

Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, spelt, semolina, farro, barley and rye. These grains are a source of fiber, B vitamins, trace minerals and other nutrients. Many studies have associated whole-grain consumption with improved health outcomes. For instance, as part of a healthy diet, wheat has been found to reduce the risk of diabetes, heart disease and weight gain.

Gluten interplays with the bacteria in the gut. The journal Nutrients published a review in 2021 of various studies that evaluated the effects of a gluten-free diet on the microbiome of healthy, celiac disease and NCGS patients. The researchers found that a gluten-free diet reduced the bacterial richness and affected gut microbiota composition of patients in all three groups. In patients with celiac disease or NCGS, the gluten-free diet created a positive effect on gastrointestinal symptoms and helped restore microbiota population by reducing the population of pro-inflammatory species. However, in healthy patients, a gluten-free diet had a negative effect on the gut by decreasing the number of beneficial species and increasing the number of bad microorganisms.

According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, changes in the amount or activity of good bacteria have been associated with gastrointestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, colorectal cancer and irritable bowel syndrome.

“Changes in your diet can alter your microbiome within one to two days,” says Dr. Tom O’Bryan, an expert on wheat-related disorders, NCGS, celiac disease and their link to autoimmune diseases. “When you go on a gluten-free diet, you remove prebiotics that feed the good bacteria in your gut. This then causes the bad bacteria to flourish and

reproduce, resulting in increased inflammation in your gut, a contributor to disease.” This makes sense as 70 to 80 percent of immune cells are present in the gut.

Effective Gluten-Free Dieting

Whether a gluten-free diet is required because of a gluten-related disorder or by choice, it is essential to add prebiotic foods to replace the beneficial impacts lost when eliminating wheat and other grains. Prebiotic and probiotic supplements are a start, but consumption of vegetables is the key.

“Probiotics are most effective when they are combined with a high-fiber diet featuring a variety of vegetables,” says O’Bryan. He recommends at least one daily serving of root vegetables, such as rutabaga, turnip, parsnip, radish, carrot and sweet potato, and two daily servings of prebiotic foods like bananas, garlic, onion, asparagus, leafy green vegetables, legumes, artichoke, apples and cocoa. “I also recommend a forkful or more of fermented foods each day. Vary it up with some sauerkraut, kimchi, miso or fermented beets, or drink some kefir or kombucha.”

“If you're experiencing digestive discomfort, give a healthy, gluten-free diet a try for at least 30 days and assess how you feel,” recommends Michelle Ross, a board-certified nutrition specialist, licensed dietician and functional medicine practitioner. “My recommendation is to stay away from the gluten-free aisle. The truth is many people that switch to a gluten-free diet often turn to processed gluten-free foods. The focus should be on consuming whole, real, unprocessed foods.”

Finding Balance

Even for those without gluten-related conditions, too much gluten can create its own health complications. In a 2015 study published in Nutrients, gliadin, a component of gluten, was administered to biopsies taken from the small intestines of healthy, celiac disease and NCGS patients. The researchers found each group experienced increases in inflammatory markers and in markers of leaky gut, with the healthy group having the greatest increase in interleukin 10, a rapidly activated pro-inflammatory cytokine that defends the body against microbial invasion.

For otherwise healthy people, finding a balance between enough gluten to feed gut probiotics but not so much that it results in gut permeability issues is important. “If you decide to continue consuming gluten, opt for whole or minimally processed einkorn wheat, rye, barley, spelt and Kamut wheat,” says Ross. “These grains have not undergone hybridization and are not typically sprayed with glyphosate before harvesting. Additionally, consider consuming sprouted or fermented forms of these grains, as they can be more digestible.”

Deborah Bevilacqua is a journalist and contributor to Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation.

Purple Cauliflower Salad

This salad is full of cruciferous vegetables, including cauliflower, broccoli and Brussels sprouts, which have a nutrient called diindolylmethane (DIM) that helps process estrogen in a healthier way. Pumpkin seeds are a great source of zinc, which supports progesterone production, and magnesium, which can help with period cramps. Avocado and olive oil are rich in hormone-supportive omega-3s.

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

1 head purple cauliflower

¼ head white cauliflower

¼ head broccoli or 1 cup Brussels sprouts

2 Tbsp canned red kidney beans (optional)

Image credit: Courtney Ayers / Firefly.Adobe.com

½ avocado, sliced 1-2 Tbsp pumpkin seeds

1 Tbsp olive oil or avocado oil

Pinch of salt

Dash of black pepper

Preheat oven to 320° F. Cut cauliflower and broccoli into florets (or slice Brussels sprouts in half) and add them to a baking tray. Drizzle the veggies with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place into preheated oven to roast for about 15 minutes. Stir the vegetables and roast for another five to 10 minutes until fork-tender and golden brown. Remove from oven and set aside to cool. Combine with other ingredients.

Recipe courtesy of Deborah Matthew.

Wellness Counselor Uses Bioresonance to Rebalance the Body

by Sheila Julson

Michele Jaeger, Ph.D. and founder of Sage Wellness and Nutrition, knows what it’s like for a new mom to struggle with low energy and fatigue while caring for an infant. A friend eventually referred her to a practitioner that offered bioresonance, an energy modality that assesses the body’s electromagnetic field for disturbances caused by things like bacteria, viruses, parasites, food sensitivities and emotions, and uses that information to help correct imbalances from detected interferences.

Through bioresonance, Jaeger noticed her health challenges improve. Jaeger also used bioresonance to help a close family member overcome depression. “Bioresonance helped detect a gluten sensitivity that had caused neuroinflammation, leading to neurological symptoms. The gut and the brain are connected,” Jaeger shares. “That was the catalyst for me to push forward in this area.”

Bioresonance has become a vital tool for Jaeger’s wellness and nutrition counseling practice. “Everything is made of energy that is condensed into what we can see in the physical world,”

Michele Jaeger

Ryan, CSD

explains Jaeger, who has a doctorate in cellular and molecular biology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. “Everything in the universe has its own personal energetic fingerprint, or signature, which can be measured in hertz value.”

During a bioresonance scan, Jaeger tests hair, fingernail, urine and saliva samples from clients against thousands of energetic frequency signatures. Resonant signatures are then imprinted into mediums such as homeopathic tinctures, structured water, patches or crystals for clients to use so their bodies can receive those frequencies. This can help restore cellular communication and correct imbalances.

Jaeger reviews the bioresonance results during each client’s initial appointment, which is approximately 90 minutes. She works with the client to put together their story and review what the bioresonance scan reveals. Visits include recommendations for ways that clients

“It’s like a software upgrade for your body’s hardware, helping it to regain homeostasis,” Jaeger relates. “This energetic imprinted information is very similar to a computer program that uses binary code to direct the flow of information.”

Bioresonance can be used to help alleviate myriad conditions such as autoimmune diseases, anxiety, fatigue, digestive issues, inflammation, menstrual irregularities, mold exposure, Lyme disease, thyroid issues and more, Jaeger says. “Bioresonance is essentially like having a conversation with the body on the atomic level about what it wants and is ready to address. The answers are often surprising and validating.”

Jaeger has used bioresonance to help adults and children. “Kids respond beautifully because they have yet to build up layers of density and years and years of traumas.”

Jaeger occasionally sees clients in person; in-person sessions involve

Organic Bug Spray

Sage Wellness and Nutrition is based in Minneapolis. For more information, email SageWellnessAndNutrition@gmail.com or visit SageWellnessAndNutrition.com. See listings on page 30.

Identifying and Treating Lyme Disease

An Integrative and Functional Medicine Approach

by Jill Valerius, M.D., ABoIM, IFMCP, ATC

Lyme disease, a complex and often misdiagnosed illness, affects approximately 476,000 people annually in the United States. Found in all 50 states and every continent but Antarctica, it is transmitted primarily by the Ixodes tick, more commonly known as the deer tick or black-legged tick. If not promptly addressed, the ailment can lead to long-term health complications. Thanks to advancements in medicine, the identification and treatment of Lyme disease continues to evolve and improve.

Historical Context

The story of Lyme disease began in the 1970s with a community outbreak of facial palsy and arthritis in Lyme, Connecticut. An explanation for this mysterious illness did not surface until the early 1980s, when Willy Burgdorfer, an investigator for the National Institutes of Health, discovered a bacterium in ticks from the area (Borrelia Burgdorferi), laying the foundation for modern testing and diagnostic methods.

Diagnosing a Complex Disease

There are several complicating factors that make a Lyme disease diagnosis difficult. The characteristic bullseye-shaped rash is present in less than half of cases and may disappear quickly. Early signs and symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle pain, headache, joint pain, fatigue and swollen lymph nodes are easily mistaken for other illnesses.

The utility of early lab testing is limited because the process takes several weeks and can lead to false negatives. This leaves

physicians to rely on observable symptoms and rule out other possible causes. A doctor will also ask if a patient has been out in the woods or grassy areas where they might have been exposed to black-legged ticks.

Tom Moorcroft, DO, the founder of Origins of Health and an investigator of medical mysteries, refers to Lyme disease as “the new great imitator and instigator,” describing its ability to mimic various other diseases, often at the same time. For people experiencing persistent symptoms, comprehensive lab testing may be needed to distinguish between Lyme and other tickborne and non-tick-borne diseases.

Treatment Options

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), untreated Lyme disease can produce a wide range of symptoms, including fever, rash, facial paralysis and arthritis. While conventional antibiotics remain a cornerstone for early-stage treatment, emerging research increasingly recognizes and supports the role of natural and botanical medicine.

In a 2020 study published in Frontiers in Medicine, seven botanical agents were identified as promising treatments for Lyme disease, including black walnut, Japanese knotweed, sweet wormwood, cat’s claw and Chinese skullcap. Cryptolepis sanguinolenta extract caused a complete eradication of the B. Burgdorferi bacterium in their study. The scientists recommended additional research to determine dosages and extract combinations that might offer hope for those suffering long-term symptoms.

The integrative and functional medicine approach to treating Lyme disease is multifaceted and customized, taking into account an individual’s health history, environmental factors and unique physiological responses. The overarching goals are to target the infection, bolster the immune system, manage symptoms and promote overall well-being.

According to Dr. Darin Ingels, a licensed doctor of naturopathic medicine and author of The Lyme Solution, “All other therapies, no matter what they are, probably aren’t going to be as effective until you’ve really taken care of your gut health and your mental and emotional being.”

Lifestyle interventions are critical in this holistic treatment. A diet rich in whole foods, clean proteins and minimal grains, dairy, sugar and processed foods can mitigate inflammation and aid recovery. Complementary practices such as regular exercise, sauna sessions, Epsom salt baths, sufficient sleep and stress management techniques play vital roles in healing and preventing long-term complications.

Erik Karits from pixabay/CanvaPro

Prevention Tips

Prevention is integral in combating Lyme disease. Tick repellents and protective clothing can significantly reduce bites. After spending time in wooded or grassy areas, thoroughly check the skin for early tick detection and removal. Upon discovering a tick, remove it promptly and monitor the bite area for signs of a rash or infection. If symptoms appear, quickly seek guidance from a healthcare professional with expertise in Lyme disease.

A healthy diet, regular exercise and sufficient sleep are essential for maintaining a robust immune system and can bolster the body’s defenses, potentially reducing the risk of developing chronic Lyme disease.

Staying Informed

• International Lyme and Associated Disease Society (ilads.org) is a global nonprofit that promotes research, education and policy associated with Lyme and associated diseases.

• LymeDisease.org offers support and information curated by patients.

• TickSpotters from the University of Rhode Island (Tinyurl.com/tickspot) provides tick identification information and science-based risk assessments.

• Local health departments can provide updated information and recommendations for specific areas.

Meeting Future Challenges

Lyme disease presents a significant global health challenge, necessitating a multifaceted and individualized approach to its management. Integrative and functional medicine offer an effective strategy, combining conventional medical treatments with lifestyle and natural therapies. This holistic approach empowers individuals to take an active role in their health journey, ensuring not just the treatment of Lyme disease, but also the promotion of long-term wellness and quality of life.

Jill Valerius is a dual-board-certified physician in family and integrative medicine with an additional certification in functional medicine. Learn more at NowHealthPalmer.com

Your Healing Connection

by Sheila Julson

In 2015, Mary Rice—who would later create Your Healing Connection—sought relief from Lyme disease symptoms. After a practitioner introduced her to the Emotion Code and Body Code energy systems of healing, Rice incorporated them into her healing journey. She practiced the therapies on herself and soon noticed layers of past trauma unfold and clear away, leading to emotional and physical well-being.

Rice later studied and became certified in the Emotion Code and Body Code in order to help others experience those same healing benefits. She founded Your Healing Connection in 2018. This past spring, she became certified in the Belief Code, the third level of the healing program developed by Doctor of Chiropractic Bradley Nelson.

Freeing Trapped Emotions and Rebalancing Energy to Heal

The Emotion Code, Body Code and Belief Code are energy medicine modalities that involve the practitioner dialing into a client’s personal energy and serving as a neutral conduit in order to help free past experiences stored in the body and rebalance the body’s energy system. The Emotion Code focuses on freeing trapped emotions and releasing “heart-wall” barriers that hold one back from achieving optimal health and happiness. The next level of Nelson’s program, the Body Code, focuses on releasing energetic imbalances

Mary Rice

and resolving physical, mental and spiritual discomforts. The third level, the Belief Code, is an extension of the Body Code and can be a missing piece of the puzzle for some clients. Rice explains, “It adds another dimension to my practice. The Belief Code is designed to empower clients—to help them understand their past and to act, not react, to the present and future—while supporting them in pursuing their goals and dreams.”

Rice equates the process to the law of attraction. “Negative beliefs in the body, mind or spirit inform how our nervous and immune systems work, and then that system adheres to that belief with every cell of the body. When you release negative beliefs of helplessness or hopelessness, energy is transformed, and the body’s innate intelligence allows the body to do what is designed to do, which is to heal itself.”

“Negative beliefs in the body, mind or spirit inform how our nervous and immune systems work. When you release negative beliefs, energy is transformed and allows the body to do what is designed to do, which is to heal itself.”

The therapy is non-invasive. Rice connects with a client’s energy through Mind Maps, which are comprehensive guides that help the practitioner determine energy blockages and trapped emotions. Rice also uses applied kinesiology, also known as muscle testing, as a diagnostic tool.

“I ask for underlying causes and what’s contributing to the problem. It can be a trapped emotion or traumatic event. It could also be blockages caused by environmental toxins like chemicals in our foods, poor air quality or pesticides that overload the body.”

Rice offers sessions virtually via Zoom, or by phone or email. The number of sessions vary per client and individual goals. The Emotion Code, Body Code and Belief Code can be used on adults, teens, children and animals. Practitioners study modules and practice on volunteer participants, and achieve certification by training through Discover Healing (DiscoverHealing.com).

“This form of energy medicine can open up possibilities in ways you could never imagine,” Rice concludes. “Clients often come in for one thing, and another door opens that they hadn’t anticipated. I want to show people that there is another way to achieve healing.”

Your Healing Connection is based in Zimmerman, Minnesota. For more information, email YourHealingConnection@gmail.com or visit YourHealingConnection.com. See listing on page 30.

Myofascial Rele ase Body work

Barb Ryan, CMT 612-922-2389

“Years of pain now diminished...” ~R.S.

“The doctors didn’t help; this did.” ~L.H.

Bhakti Wellness Center in Edina barb@wisdomsisterstudio.com

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Raising Puppies to Be Heroes

How to Foster Guide-Dog Candidates

by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN

Fostering puppies to become guide dogs or service animals can be a deeply meaningful endeavor. Beyond being loyal companions, these special pups profoundly impact the lives of people with disabilities by offering mobility and a newfound sense of freedom. They not only assist in navigation but also pave the way for social opportunities and contribute to the overall happiness and well-being of their owners.

In a 2019 study published in the journal Animals, Austrian researchers compared the quality of life and annual medical costs of 36 blind individuals with and without a guide dog by means of a standardized questionnaire. Although no significant differences in quality of life were noted, the guide-dog owners reported lower medical costs and expressed a firm belief that their canine companions facilitated social contacts and had a positive impact on their independence and health.

Critical Role of Foster Families

Breeds known for their intelligence and temperament, such as Labradors, golden retrievers and German shepherds, are preferred choices. Their guide-dog journey begins just days after they are born, when foster families take them in and expose them to new experiences, sounds and surfaces, along with early tutelage in body handling, kennel training and wearing a puppy jacket.

At 8 weeks old, the pups begin to learn good manners and socialization skills. This period is pivotal in preparing them for formal service-dog training. Nearly half of the canines bred to become guide dogs fail before the end of their training because they are skittish and fearful.

In a 2021 study, also published in Animals, French researchers sought to understand the nature and causes of such fears by observing and measuring stress biomarkers of 5-month-old guide-dog candidates as they were exposed to unfamiliar people, visual and sound stimuli, and physical handling.

The scientists concluded that the more time a puppy spent alone, the more likely it was to be afraid, underscoring the importance of early socialization and habituation to boost confidence and adaptability by exposing them to different people, animals and environments. The researchers characterized the early development period of puppies as “a decisive phase influencing their temperament in adulthood,” thereby enhancing their chances of success as guide dogs.

Fostering Tips

Caring for a guide-dog candidate during its formative first months can make or break the animal’s future performance. Here are a few tips for foster parents.

• Offer positive reinforcement. Celebrate small wins, maintain a positive attitude and apply consistent commands and routines when training a guide dog. This strategy not only builds a solid foundation but also speeds up the learning process and minimizes stress for both trainers and puppies.

• Provide rewards and discipline. Treats, praise and playtime encourage puppies to repeat desired behaviors. Simultaneously, it

Photo by Irina Novikova for pexels.com

is important to set boundaries and enforce rules to guide their behavior, ensuring they grow into well-behaved guide dogs.

• Ensure their health. Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations and a balanced diet are crucial to keeping the puppy healthy and ready for training. A physically fit pooch is more capable of focusing and learning during training sessions.

• Learn to let go. Recognize that saying goodbye is part of the process when the puppy is ready to move on to specialized training or to be paired with their person. Focus on the incredible impact the dog will have on someone’s life.

• Communicate with the experts. Always seek support and advice from the training organization and document the puppy’s progress. This will help the foster family avoid missteps or make early corrections in caretaking and training. Future trainers or handlers will also benefit from the documentation.

• Stay informed. Keep up to date on new training techniques and trends in the field of service animals to enhance the fostering experience.

Training Programs and Organizations

After leaving their foster families, usually around the age of 12 to 18 months, guidedog candidates will enter a formal training program, such as the one offered by the nonprofit Guide Dogs for the Blind, the largest

school of its kind in North America, with campuses in California, Oregon and Canada. Here, the young canines learn specialized skills needed to assist their future owners—a process that takes at least another year. All of the training and support is provided free of charge, made possible by donors and volunteers.

To learn more, visit Guide Dogs for the Blind (GuideDogs.com), Seeing Eye Dogs (SeeingEye.org) and Guiding Eyes for the Blind (GuidingEyes.org). There are numerous ways to help these organizations such as volunteering time, donating money, fostering puppies or assisting in awareness campaigns.

Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian and holistic health coach for pets, as well as the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com

Female Environmentalists

Women Pursuing a Sustainable World

by Kelcie Ottoes

English author Virginia Woolf once said, “For most of history, Anonymous was a woman,” illustrating the predicament of accomplished females that never received the recognition they were due. One example was Eunice Newton Foote, who presented her findings on the greenhouse effect at the 10th annual meeting for the American Association for the Advancement of Science in 1856, only to be eclipsed by John Tyndall, who was credited for this discovery even though his work on the subject was carried out two years later.

In 2013, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution pronouncing that “full and equal access to and participation in science, technology and innovation for women and girls of all ages is imperative for achieving gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls.” In recent years, impactful women like African American space scientist and mathematician Katherine Johnson and Hispanic astronaut Ellen Ochoa have begun to be acknowledged for their contributions to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Still, many more women remain on the sidelines.

Only 30 percent of the world’s researchers and less than one-third of the STEM workforce are women. Paradoxically, women are more impacted by climate change than men, given that 70 percent of individuals living in poverty are women. Females have less access to resources and education and are often dependent on natural resources that are impacted by global warming for their livelihood.

“Climate change affects everyone. It does not discriminate, yet, sadly, women’s voices are not heard enough, and women are even invisible at times,” says Sangeeta Waldron, author of Corporate Social Responsibility Is Not Public Relations. “Women, particularly in vulnerable regions, are the first to be impacted by climate change, as they are the ones who will need to

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collect the water from distant wells or rainfall when there is a drought; or who work on farms when the male members of their families have gone to the cities to earn a living, when their crops run dry due to lack of rain or in some places have too much rain; or who fight against the big fossil fuel companies that encroach on their land, organizing their community to fight back.”

Waldron also laments, “Neither do we see enough female representation at the negotiating table when discussing climate policies. The latest data and images from COP28 [28th Conference of the Parties to

Courtesy Sangeeta Waldron

Sangeeta Waldron

the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change] reinforce this; 140 world leaders were scheduled to speak, and only 15 were women. It highlights the gender gap despite improvements from previous COPs.”

Six Female Environmental Leaders

“Many women are playing a tremendous role in the green economy and are creating a sustainable, just and resilient economy,” says Quinn Antus, the program manager of emerging markets, carbon management and carbon dioxide removal for the state of Colorado. Here are some examples of female champions.

Yohana Tesfamariam Tekeste developed a new type of insurance to help farmers in eastern and southern Africa reduce their vulnerability to climate change. Haein Shin supports international education development, curating content about the environment, digital and financial literacy, and employment readiness. Nzambi Matee, a Young Champion of the Earth recipient, created bricks made of discarded plastic waste, finding a solution for littering and the housing crisis in Kenya. Naomi Davis founded Blacks in Green, which strives to be a national network for environmental justice and economic development that closes America’s racial health/wealth gap.

Zoë Gamble Hanes is the president of CleanChoice Energy, which helps make renewable energy accessible for all through solar farms and other clean-energy solutions. She says, “Sustainable practices only benefit from bringing in diverse voices. We’ve found ourselves in the midst of a new-age industrial revolution that requires a diverse talent pool to reach success. By empowering more women to join sustainable efforts—especially within the renewable energy sector that has traditionally been a male-dominated industry—we can usher in a new generation of passionate leaders with different, and important, perspectives, all working toward the goal of creating a greener, more sustainable future for years to come.”

Girl Power Is Sustainable Power

Including women in sustainability is not just about equality, it is about leveraging human talent, insights and creativity to address climate change, food insecurity, equity and other pressing issues of our time. The facts are that the global temperature is rising, the ocean is getting warmer, extreme-weather-related events are increasing in frequency and glaciers are melting. Our best hope for addressing these issues is if everyone participates.

Kelcie Ottoes is a copywriter and content creator specializing in sustainability and environmental topics.

Calendar of Events

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Thursday, May 9

Save The Date

Spring Into Self Care Wellness Expo 3:30-6pm

Spring Into Health with this opportunity to connect with local wellness resources! Massage, sound healing, personal training, contrast therapy (infrared sauna and ice bath), acupuncture, and more! Raffle prizes, giveaways and refreshments provided. Free. Cadence Chiropractic & Contrast Suite, 6409 City W Pkwy #105, Eden Prairie 952-855-7656

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Tuesday, May 21

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Ladies Night Out in Bloomington 6-8:30pm

Door Prizes, Food and Fun! Planet Gratitude, LLC and the businesses at the International Village Building are hosting a Ladies Night Out featuring local vendors, live music, food, free chair massage, chiropractic and health screenings. Goodie Bags to first 50 attendees! Free. 220 W. 98th St, Ste. 7, Bloomington Planet-Gratitude.com

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We Are The Medicine Moon Gathering

Join our 3-day gathering that fosters collective healing, self-discovery and connections amid nature’s beauty. Choose a weekend cabin stay or join us for a day experience. Workshops, vendors, live performances, bodywork, drum circles, ecstatic dance, psychic mediums, hiking and more. Excelsior, MN. Tickets: WeAreTheMedicine2024.my.canva.site

May 24 – 26

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Midwest Women’s Herbal Conference Weekend - May 24-26

Keynote speakers include Tieraona LowDog, MD, Mimi Hernandez and Lisa Ganora, with opening and closing ceremonies led by Angela Smith. Conference provides more than 60 workshops and plant walks focused on herbs, plants, trees, mushrooms, the Earth and personal growth. Camp Helen Brachman 9341 Asbury Dr, Almond, WI MidwestWomensHerbal.com

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Sri Harold Klemp, spiritual leader of Eckankar, shares wisdom through stories & spiritual insights that bring meaning, connection & humor to the workings of Spirit in everyday life. Watch on Channel 6 or via MCN6.org

For more information, visit TempleOfECK.org or Facebook.com/Eckankar

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THE HEALTHIEST FOOD FOR YOUR PET – EVOLUTION DIET PET FOOD: 100% Natural and Organic pet food for dogs and cats. The best thing you can buy for your pet. Safe, highly awarded, non-GMO. Shop online at PetFoodShop.com See ad on page 25.

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Acupuncture

PLANET GRATITUDE

220 W 98th St, Ste 7, Bloomington 952-922-1478

Planet-Gratitude.com

Planet Gratitude provides holistic health services including chiropractic, acupuncture, acupressure, supplements, stretching and massage. A unique feature is our Planet Gratitude Comedy Club where laughter is indeed the best medicine!

Animal & Pet Health

EVOLUTION DIET PET FOOD

NATURAL, ORGANIC PET FOOD

St. Paul, MN

651-228-0632 | PetFoodShop.com

The best thing you can buy for your pet. The world’s most advanced, safest and highly awarded organic, non-GMO cat and dog foods! Shop online at PetFoodShop.com See ad on page 25.

Bio-Resonance

SAGE WELLNESS AND NUTRITION

Michele Jaeger

SageWellnessandNutrition@gmail.com

SageWellnessandNutrition.com

Mystery symptoms you can’t get to the bottom of? Pairing bio-resonance and frequency medicine with health coaching, I help you peel back the layers keeping you from vibrant health.

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I EAT 4 HEALTH. LLC

Susane Moua

651-412-4699 • IEat4Health.com

We uncover which minerals and vitamins your body is missing, then use specific foods to shift your body chemistry to the healing zone. Call today for your free consult. See ad page 7.

Bodywork

MYOFASCIAL RELEASE & CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY

Barb Ryan, CMT, CSD • 612-922-2389 Bhakti Wellness Center

7300 Metro Blvd., Suite 340, Edina WisdomSisterStudio.com

Specializing in persistent and chronic pain and mysteries of the body. Also for people seeking the experience of deep relaxation and increased self-connection. Skilled and compassionate care. See ad on page 23.

Chiropractic

CADENCE CHIROPRACTIC & CONTRAST SUITE

Dr. Amanda Haeg 6409 City W Pkwy, Eden Prairie 952-855-7656

CadenceChiroMN.com

Rev up your blood flow, flush out those toxins and slip into a blissful state with our new Cadence Contrast Suite, featuring an infrared sauna and Plunge ice bath. Chiropractic, sound healing & massage are also offered. See ad on page 10.

PLANET GRATITUDE

220 W 98th St, Ste 7, Bloomington 952-922-1478 • Planet-Gratitude.com

Planet Gratitude provides holistic health services including chiropractic, acupuncture, acupressure, supplements, stretching and massage. A unique feature is our Planet Gratitude Comedy Club where laughter is indeed the best medicine!

Coaching

DAN GORMLEY

TRANSFORMATIONAL COACH INNERVIDA LLC

DGormley23@outlook.com 904-377-5789

PositiveIntelligence.com

Learn to recognize and balance your 10-Inner Saboteurs! Join our 7-week Transformational Coaching Pod and discover your life’s purpose. Empathize! Explore! Innovate! Navigate! and Activate your right-brain Sage powers! See ad on page 21.

Coaching, Health

MIND BODY SOUL, LLC

DORI TROSSEN

NATURAL HEALTH PRACTITIONER

763-639-9133

BalancedDori.com

As Health Coach and holistic practitioner, Dori guides clients to reach their health goals with individualized plans, bioresonance and complementary therapies that get to the root cause of issues to heal and stay well. See ad page 7.

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HEALTH CENTERED DENTISTRY

N7915-902 St River Falls, WI • 715-426-7777

HealthCenteredDentistry.com

Whole Person Dentistry observes and deals with the mind, body and spirit, not just your teeth. This approach to dentistry encompasses both modern science and knowledge drawn from the world’s great traditions in natural healing. See ad on pages 10.

NATURAL SMILES DENTAL CARE

3434 Lexington Ave. N., Ste 700 Shoreview • 651-483-9800

NaturalSmilesDental.com

We’re an integrative practice committed to promoting dental wellness and overall assistance to the whole person. We desire to participate in the creation of healthier lives, while being sensitive to physical, philosophical, emotional and financial concerns. See ad on pages 3.

PURE DENTAL

Dr. Amy Ha Truong 6230 10th St. N., Ste 520, Oakdale 651-731-3064 • PureDentalMN.com

Pure Dental offers integrative, holistic, alternative and biological dentistry for your dental health. We take pride in providing quality, holistic dental care and service for our patients. See ad on page 22.

SEDATION AND IMPLANT DENTISTRY

1815 Suburban Ave, St. Paul ToothBuilder.com • 651-735-4661

We are a holistic dental practice devoted to restoring and enhancing the natural beauty of your smile using conservative, state-ofthe-art dental procedures that result in beautiful, long-lasting smiles! We specialize in safe removal of infected teeth as well as placing ceramic implants and restorations. See ad on page 8.

TOOTH BY THE LAKE

1401 Main St, Hopkins 952-475-1101 • ToothByTheLake.net

We build a foundation of trust by treating our patients as individuals. Understanding how uneasy some patients may feel about their dental visits, we make a difference by providing a relaxing and positive experience. See ad on page 21.

Eco Retreat

JOURNEY INN

W3671 200th Ave, Maiden Rock, WI 715-502-5004

Info@JourneyInn.net

JourneyInn.net

Welcome to Journey Inn, an idyllic eco-retreat B&B nestled in the tranquil and secluded surroundings near Lake Pepin in Wisconsin. Come relax, and recharge your mind, body, and spirit.

Education

ANOKA-RAMSEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE PROGRAM

763-433-1100

AnokaRamsey.edu/AlliedHealth Embark on a fulfilling career path with Anoka-Ramsey Community College’s Therapeutic Massage program. Learn more and start your future of healing and wellness. See ad page 13.

CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY

School of Pharmacy  Tinyurl.com/Concordiacert2

Earn your Master’s in Natural Product Sciences with our 30-credit online program. This graduate degree, with concentrations in medical cannabis and nutraceuticals, can lead to jobs in health care, pharmacy research and development, manufacturing and business. See ad page 18.

Energy Healing

EMOTION CODE HEALING

Master Hong

Certified Emotion Code Practitioner 11012 Cedar Lake Rd., Minnetonka 952-513-7285 or 914-708-9463

Chronic pain? Suffering from emotions? Relationship problems? Life not going as planned? The Emotion Code is a tool I use to help you break through any emotional and spiritual blocks so you can live your best life. Trial session only $35.

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F.Y.T. HEALTH & WELLNESS

Vanessa Nordstrom

Eden Prairie, MN

(in office & distance sessions)

612-382-3653

FYTHealthWellness@gmail.com

FYTHealthWellness.coach

Offering a unique combination of 5 healing modalities for energy healing and trauma release with the Emotion Code, Body Code, Belief Code, Reiki and Healy sessions. I use Individualized Microcurrent Frequency (IMF) programs to harmonize the Bioenergetic Field.

YOUR HEALING CONNECTION

Mary Rice

YourHealingConnection.com

YourHealingConnection@gmail.com

Mary uses The Body Code* to transform the lives of her clients. This comprehensive energetic healing method, developed by Dr. Bradley Nelson, allows her to quickly and easily identify specific imbalances that can underlie chronic ill health, pain and discomfort, dysfunction, and stress. Dr. Nelson discovered that you can access the wisdom of the subconscious to identify and address the energetic imbalances that cause health problems. The “hidden” root causes of disease and dysfunction are these emotional and physical imbalances that can drain energy and prevent healing, leaving you unable to live the life you deserve. The best part is, you can do this from the comfort of your own home via phone or Zoom. Set up a free 20-minute consultation today!

Financial Advising

JODY MCDONOUGH

FINANCIAL ADVISOR

651-491-8295

7815 3rd st. N. #201, Oakdale, MN Jody@StCroixWM.com StCroixWM.com

Whether you or your family are just starting out on your financial journey, or you are nearing retirement with important decisions to make, WE CAN HELP. Financial health is part of overall wellness. See ad page 21.

Health Food Stores

MASTEL’S HEALTH FOODS

1526 St Clair Ave, St Paul Mastels.com • 651-690-1692

Mastel’s Health Foods is Minnesota’s oldest health and wellness store. We carry a full line of vitamins, minerals, supplements, herbs and more. We emphasize organic, biodynamic, biodegradable, holistic and hypoallergenic products and pride ourselves on stocking hard-tofind items. See ad on page 17.

Holistic Health

SAGE WELLNESS AND NUTRITION

Michele Jaeger

SageWellnessandNutrition@gmail.com SageWellnessandNutrition.com

Mystery symptoms you can’t get to the bottom of? Pairing bio-resonance and frequency medicine with health coaching, I help you peel back the layers keeping you from vibrant health.

Homeopathy

FIELDWORK HOMEOPATHY

Ashley Keul & Beth Bundy, CCH, BSN 100% Virtual Services

FieldworkHomeopathy.com

Individualized holistic care for all ages. From acute illness and injury support to addressing symptoms of long-standing chronic conditions, our virtual homeopathy clinic can help you wherever you are.

Integrated Health

GENEVIEVE WACHUTKA

7801 East Bush Lake Rd., Suite 240, Bloomington 763-222-8600 • GenevieveWachutka.com

Genevieve specializes in the practical application of time-tested tools and metaphysical wisdom to embody more of your potential, and experience greater clarity, joy, and purpose in life. Benefits include increased intuition and clarity; upleveled daily baseline of joy; peace within your heart and mind; improved relationship with self; and the ability to navigate a path of self-mastery to realize your greatness. Text 763-222-8600 or email Hello@GenevieveWachutka.com to schedule a complimentary discovery session. See ad on page 18.

Massage

OPTIMAL WELLNESS SOLUTIONS

2489 Rice Street N. Suite 130 Roseville, MN, 55113 651-340-1233

RosevilleOptimalWellness.com

We provide a well-rounded menu of holistic, integrative healing practices to support your mind, body and spirt including massage, network spinal, craniosacral therapy, thermography, detox ionic footbaths, Reiki and footcare services. See ad page 11.

Mental Health

JACK CINCOTTA

Holistic Health Practitioner, AADP 920-650-7674

Jack@JackCincotta.com

JackCincotta.com

Jack Cincotta, Holistic Health Practitioner (AADP), M.S. Psychology, specializes in helping others overcome anxiety, depression and related issues through holistic and natural aapproaches and offers services via phone and online.

Naturopathic Doctor

DR. KRISSY HAGLUND, NMD

Naturopathic Medical Doctor Scott County, MN DrKrissy.com

DrKrissy.NMD@gmail.com

Caring for patients skeptical of the conventional paradigm. Experienced treating mental health & the brain naturally: anxiety, depression, ADD, autism, behavioral disorders, postpartum, OCD and TBI. See ad on page 7.

Nutrition

I EAT 4 HEALTH, LLC

Susane Moua 651-412-4699

IEat4Health.com

We uncover which minerals and vitamins your body is missing, then use specific foods to shift your body chemistry to the healing zone. Call today for your free consult. See ad page 7.

Nutrition Supplements

ALIVE N VIBRANT

Superfood and Protein Powders AliveNVibrant@gmail.com AliveNVibrant.com

Locally made, 100 percent organic superfood powders to keep you feeling alive and vibrant no matter what your health history.

Professional Listening

PROFESSIONAL LISTENING

BarbBarb Ryan, CSD • 612-922-2389 Wisdom Listening WisdomSisterStudio.com

Longing for someone who will listen without judgment? Facing a tough decision and need a space to explore possibilities? Have some secrets corroding your being? Need a place to vent about loved ones without repercussions? Wisdom Listening can help. It’s not therapy or coaching. My sole objective is to provide a safe and supportive space for you to unburden and explore your mind, heart, and soul. Book your virtual session now. See ad on page 18.

Radio/Podcasts

AM950 THE PROGRESSIVE VOICE OF MINNESOTA

AM950Radio.com

The only Progressive Talk Radio station in Minnesota. We strive to provide the best progressive programming available and feature national talkers Thom Hartmann, Stephanie Miller, Mike Crute and Brad Friedman. We are also dedicated to local programming that creates a community forum for important Minnesota Progressive issues. See ad on page 2.

Salt Therapy

5D WELLNESS

Brittney Yares 18447 Hwy 65 NE, Suite C, East Bethel 612-322-9989

5DWellnessMN@gmail.com

5DWellnessMN.com

Offering top-of-the-line services to increase overall wellness including infrared sauna/cold plunge, red light therapy, contrast therapy with a hot and cold tub in one private room, salt/ halotherapy combined with infrared sauna, and a king-sized crystal healing mat with bioacoustic features. See ad page 5.

Sauna Therapy & Contrast Suite

5D WELLNESS

Brittney Yares 18447 Hwy 65 NE, Suite C, East Bethel 612-322-9989

5DWellnessMN@gmail.com

5DWellnessMN.com

Offering top-of-the-line services to increase overall wellness including infrared sauna/cold plunge, red light therapy, contrast therapy with a hot and cold tub in one private room, salt/halotherapy combined with infrared sauna, and a king-sized crystal healing mat with bioacoustic features. See ad page 5.

CADENCE CHIROPRACTIC & CONTRAST SUITE

Dr. Amanda Haeg 6409 City W Pkwy, Eden Prairie 952-855-7656

CadenceChiroMN.com

Rev up your blood flow, flush out those toxins and slip into a blissful state with our new Cadence Contrast Suite, featuring an infrared sauna and Plunge ice bath. Chiropractic, sound healing & massage are also offered. See ad on page 10.

Spiritual Teaching

ECKANKAR TEMPLE OF ECK

7450 Powers Blvd., Chanhassen 952-380-2200 • TempleofECK.org

Are you looking for the personal experience of God? Eckankar can help you fulfill your dream. We offer ways to explore your own unique and natural relationship with the Divine through personalized study to apply in your everyday life.

Trauma Healing

F.Y.T. HEALTH & WELLNESS

Vanessa Nordstrom Eden Prairie, MN (in office & distance sessions) 612-382-3653

FYTHealthWellness@gmail.com

FYTHealthWellness.coach

Offering a unique combination of 5 healing modalities for energy healing and trauma release with the Emotion Code, Body Code, Belief Code, Reiki and Healy sessions. I use Individualized Microcurrent Frequency (IMF) programs to harmonize the Bioenergetic Field.

Wellness Center

CADENCE CHIROPRACTIC & CONTRAST SUITE

Dr. Amanda Haeg 6409 City W Pkwy, Eden Prairie 952-855-7656

CadenceChiroMN.com

Rev up your blood flow, flush out those toxins and slip into a blissful state with our new Cadence Contrast Suite, featuring an infrared sauna and Plunge ice bath. Chiropractic, sound healing & massage are also offered. See ad on page 10.

5D WELLNESS

Brittney Yares 18447 Hwy 65 NE, Suite C, East Bethel 612-322-9989

5DWellnessMN@gmail.com

5DWellnessMN.com

Offering top-of-the-line services to increase overall wellness including infrared sauna/cold plunge, red light therapy, contrast therapy with a hot and cold tub in one private room, salt/ halotherapy combined with infrared sauna, and a king-sized crystal healing mat with bioacoustic features. See ad page 5.

OPTIMAL WELLNESS SOLUTIONS

2489 Rice Street N. Suite 130 Roseville, MN, 55113 651-340-1233

RosevilleOptimalWellness.com

We provide a well-rounded menu of holistic, integrative healing practices to support your mind, body and spirt including massage, network spinal, craniosacral therapy, thermography, detox ionic footbaths, Reiki and footcare services. See ad page 11.