Natural Awakenings Eastern PA- January 2024 by Natural Awakenings Central NJ & Eastern PA

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Graceful Aging BUCKS & MONTGOMERY COUNTY, PA EDITION

JANUARY 2024

30th Anniversary by Kimberly Whittle Humans are social creatures by nature, and leaning into community is key to a long and healthy life. Look no further than the five so-called Blue Zones in places around the planet where people regularly live to be 100 years old. While eating nutritious food and exercising regularly are important aspects to a healthy lifestyle, Dan Buettner, a Blue Zones expert, believes part of the secret to a long and healthy life is finding purpose and doing it with help from a meaningful community. Buettner’s observations are supported by research. An article published in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine summarized the significant evidence that connection to a community helps people physically and mentally with improvements in weight control, blood sugar levels, cancer survival, cardiovascular health and overall mental health, as well as a notable mitigation of depression and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. In a Brigham Young University meta-analysis of 148 studies to determine the effect of social relationships on the risk of mortality, researchers reported that social connections with friends, family, neighbors or colleagues improved the odds of living longer by 50 percent. A Nexus for Consciousness, Healing and Hope Natural Awakenings, a pioneering magazine founded to educate and connect communities for healthy living on a healthy planet, is celebrating its 30th anniversary. In this digital era, Natural Awakenings continues to stand at the vanguard along with its parent company, KnoWEwell, and its Regenerative Whole Health Hub (Hub). The one-of-its-kind Hub uniquely builds communities, enables trusted connections to people and businesses, provides evidence-based resources, as well as local provider and thought-leader education and healing programs. As global stressors continue to arise, now more than ever, it’s important to us at Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation and KnoWEwell to expand our community’s impact to inspire, empower and connect our ecosystem locally, nationally and globally. We will be bringing our readers immersive engagement and learning opportunities, and amplifying our local businesses through multimedia publishing and business services in our local Natural Awakenings online communities, as well as within KnoWEwell’s Regenerative Whole Health Hub. As we enter our fourth decade, our print magazine will continue to grow while we embrace the everexpanding new era of digital enlightenment. We intend to continue to be a beacon of hope and a connector for safe, trusted connections to real people, authentic experts, education, and our natural, integrative and whole-health communities. We are creating new opportunities for our readers to learn from and engage with local business owners, as well as national and global experts through the Hub by:

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30th Anniversary Bringing articles to life and expanding services to local business owners to help them share their unique qualities, expertise and stories in online inspirational and educational webcasts and videos Engaging online community book discussions with luminaries such as Deepak Chopra (see ChopraQuantumBodyDiscussion.KnoWEwell.com) Providing access to immersive learning directories and 200-plus topic-specific communities Helping people find their best-matched providers, community members, businesses and locally grown foods based on their needs, values and preferences Saving members money with discounts on organic foods, courses, healing programs, products and services We promise to remain steadfast in our commitment to high-quality, evidence-based journalism to help our readers stay current and make informed decisions for sustainable, regenerative healthy living. Beginning this month and throughout our 30th year, we invite our readers and business owners to check out what’s new in our print magazines and online. We hope everyone loves our fresh new magazine design this month. We invite all to engage and connect with like-minded communities, submit feedback for a chance to be included in the new, “Members Comments” department of our magazine, and share your favorite businesses to help us continue to build trusted resources locally and globally. Together, we will be the change we seek in the world to build regenerative communities one at a time to achieve WELLthier Living: Happy. Healthy. Abundant. Purpose-Filled, People and Planet. Kimberly Whittle is the founder and CEO of KnoWEwell, P.B.C., and the CEO of Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation. Learn more about her personal journey and purpose at KnoWEwell.com/written-content/steppingstones-WELLthier-living. What’s New and Coming in 2024 at Natural Awakenings Sign up today to be the first to know what’s coming and what’s new: • Expansion online to all 50 U.S. states with interactive digital magazines • New fresh look for our print magazine, websites and online communities • Share your feedback and new Member Comments department • Artist cover submissions • Reader and business-owner surveys • National book discussion communities with luminaries such as Deepak Chopra • New rotating departments and exclusive online articles • Inspirational local and global provider and business-owner spotlight webcasts • 100-plus (and growing) whole-health educational webcasts both live and on-demand • Giveaways and exclusive members-only discounts on programs and organic foods • Late night show with Dr. Reef Karim • Join our online community to receive Natural Awakenings’ 30th anniversary cookbook. • Love us! Own Your Own franchise! Learn more at Corp.NaturalAwakenings.com. January 2024

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

BUCKS/MONTGOMERY EDITION Publisher Joe Dunne Joe@NaturalAwakeningsNJ.com 908-405-1515 • Fax: 239-920-5147

Managing Editor Kathy Tarbell Kathy@NaturalAwakeningsNJ.com 908-912-4569 • 770-867-2101 direct

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© 2024 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

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2024 Editorial Calendar January | Aging Gracefully February | Heart-Healthy Lifestyle March | Food & Nutrition April | Eco-Travel

May | Women’s Wellness June | Men’s Health July | Keeping It Cool August | Finding Your Tribe

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September | Emotional Healing October | Whole Body Alignment November | Grateful Aging December | Reconnect & Rejuvenate

Contents 12 Graceful Aging

Thank you for being part of our community!

Advanced Frequency Energy Spa

Balance for Life

Center for Natural Healing

Eco Loka

22 Sharon Bruckman on Celebrating a Labor of Love

Green Meadow Burial

Hypnosis Counseling Ctr

24 Preventing Falls in Advanced Age

KnoWEwell

2-3

16 Individualized Alzheimer’s Treatments

Directory of Advertisers

18 Thyroid-Friendly Eating

26 Growing Young in Nature

Lanap & Implant Center of Pennsylvania RegeneSpine

28 Kidfluencers

17 32

Riverside Wellness and Enchantments

Step Into Joy Healing Arts

The Hair for Life Center

Transcend Breathwork

Whole Body Yoga Studio

Departments 7 News Briefs 8 Health Briefs 10 Global Briefs 12 Feature Story 16 Healing Ways 18 Conscious Eating

22 Wise Words 24 Fit Body 26 Green Living 28 Healthy Kids 30 Calendar 31 Resource Guide

Let them know you found them in

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January 2024

Publisher’s Letter

Web Exclusives NABuxMont.com In my publisher’s letter last January, I wrote about personal commitments on an every day level. To work on ourselves, to make sure our attitude, behaviors and good actions were intact and aligned to grow as a person. To grow, improve and make progress as a mom or dad, as a better friend, and a better human. In addition, we suggested that helping others was helping ourselves, and how important that is to our souls.

Finding the Right Eco-Friendly Roof

Now, one year later, I look over how I’ve done. Over this past year I have worked on my own suggestions, my tolerance, my acceptance, and my decisions. So Joe Dunne, Publisher much improves when I concentrated on changing me, the one person I do have control over. For me, the biggest surprise of the year has been the decisions I made to release stress. When I pay attention to who I am, how I act and what I want to change, thoughts just seem to appear. Awareness and clarity expose denial. When I set the time aside to review me, when my desires are to improve, although not easy, I can face my fears, understand my true honesty, and understand the protective barriers I have built. This is what has allowed me to absolutely change my life for the better. When I made a hard decision but a correct one to drop the stress that was affecting my life, the reward has been life changing for me.

Letting the Seasons Enrich Us

So my non-resolution for 2024 is facing fears, removing stress, nurturing myself, applauding myself and others. In general, to stay on the good side of who I am. A person looking for progress in my development as a human being. As you may know I love the motto “See the good.” My hope for everyone is we can see the good in ourselves. It seems to be an area we brush aside quite easily. On the AA coin there is another motto, “To thy own self be true”. In 2024 and thereafter be proud of yourself, be good to yourself, be a better person. Everyone around you will reap the rewards along with you. My wish for all of us is to live life, enjoy it all, be a good person, spread peace, help others, be compassionate, don’t judge and keep improving. Make 2024 and every year a year of hope, while appreciating and being true to you.

Rewards of Animal Ownership

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News Briefs

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Natural Awakenings 30th Anniversary

Discover a World of Tranquility and Self-Discovery in the Heart of Costa Rica

Join an unforgettable Health and Wellness Retreat on February 17 through 25, where attendees experience the perfect blend of yoga, reiki, Thai massage, breathwork and, of course, fun in the midst of a gorgeous jungle preserve. This retreat promises an escape like no other, providing attendees with the opportunity to elevate their yoga practice and acquire self-care tools that actually work, while in tropical paradise. The retreat includes twice daily yoga in a private yoga space, breathwork, reiki, assisted stretching, Thai bodywork plus oneon-one sessions available on request. Additional optional activities include sushi cooking class, chocolate and coffee plantation tours, zip lining adventure and Full Moon cacao ceremony to seal the energies. Breathwork Instructor Dean Cramp, founder of Transcend Breathwork, shares, “This retreat will take your practice and your peace to the next level level, and rejuvenate you beyond belief.” Téva Hotel & Jungle Reserve is centered on 20 hectares of pristine forest that offer hiking trails, permaculture food gardens, botanical treasures, a jungle-view swimming pool, a top-notch Costa Rican-Moroccan fusion restaurant featuring fresh, flavorful, healthy cuisine, social spaces for meeting other travelers, a yoga and wellness shala in the forest, a wealth of local knowledge, a reliable highspeed internet connection and opportunities to see abundant wildlife like scarlet macaws, toucans and three species of monkeys, right from your window.

It was 30 years ago this month that Natural Awakenings was first launched in Naples, Florida. We offer a heartfelt thank you to the loyal readers that have come to know and love this media brand and allowed it to flourish. We are deeply grateful to the advertisers and community partners that promote green living, healthy people, healthy pets and a healthy planet with their products, services and information. Without them and the readers that support them, this magazine could not offer outstanding journalism and inspirational content each month without cost to the community. As has been the practice for the last 30 years, Natural Awakenings continues to adapt its concepts, content and communication to reflect the needs of our community without losing sight of our mission. This month’s new look is the first of several exciting enhancements that are coming in 2024. See the article and list of what’s new in 2024 on pages 2 and 3.

Graceful Aging Webcast Series

Join Natural Awakenings and KnoWEwell for an inspirational Graceful Aging webcast series, the first of which begins with Gladys McGarey, M.D., the Mother of Holistic Medicine, 103 years young and author of The Well-Lived Life: A 102-Year-Old Doctor's Six Secrets to Health and Happiness at Every Age.

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For more information, contact Teva Hotel & Jungle Reserve at aja@ majayoga.com and visit MajaYoga.com. See ad, page 23.

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January 2024

Health Briefs BLOOD TEST TO DETECT PARKINSON’S DISEASE

Long COVID has left millions with ongoing fatigue, cognitive issues, heart rate and blood pressure variation, and other debilitating symptoms. Recent findings reported in the journal Nature may help scientists develop a blood test to diagnose the illness. The study involved a cross section of 268 individuals—152 with long COVID and 116 without it as a control group. Blood testing revealed significant differences between the two test groups. Long COVID patients exhibited irregularities in the activity of immune system T cells and B cells that help fight off germs, as well as significantly lower levels of cortisol, a hormone that helps people feel alert and awake. Dormant viruses, such as Epstein-Barr that causes mononucleosis, were activated in the long COVID patients. While the scientists did not find significant evidence that long COVID was the result of an autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks itself, they suggested future studies would be needed to identify immune system problems. They also recommended further inquiry to understand cortisol’s role in long COVID and to determine whether dormant viruses are causing symptoms. Long COVID affects one in 13 Americans, according to a survey by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Researchers led by a team from Duke Health have developed a blood test to detect Parkinson’s disease, which afflicts 10 million people globally and is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder. The illness causes unintended or uncontrollable movements, such as shaking, stiffness and difficulty with balance and coordination. Symptoms start slowly and worsen over time. Until now, diagnosing Parkinson’s relied on a person’s medical history, a neurological examination and observable symptoms. An accurate diagnosis is critical because there are other disorders with Parkinson’s-like symptoms that require different treatments. The Duke Health blood test focuses on DNA damage in mitochondria, the energy-converting factories within cells. Patients with Parkinson’s had higher levels of mitochondrial DNA damage in blood cells, as compared to patients without the disease. The test also detects specific genetic mutations that are associated with an increased risk of the disease, which may be able to help doctors predetermine whether certain therapies would be effective on their patients. Researchers hope the new blood test will not only diagnose Parkinson’s disease, but also identify drugs that reverse or halt mitochondrial DNA damage and the disease process.

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BLOOD MARKERS OF LONG COVID IDENTIFIED

You Are Not Broken! You have the power to heal and You don’t have to do it alone. Step Into Joy Healing Arts LLC

Coming in February

A journey of self-discovery and healing

Gestalt Life Coaching Equine Gestalt Coaching Intuitive Reiki (267) 272-9343 joan@s tepintojoy healingar ts .com www.S tepIntoJoyHealingAr ts .com

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Heart-Healthy Lifestyle

Joan Summers

Trauma Professional Gestalt Life Coach & Reiki Master

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An article in Neurotoxicology and Teratology, a publication dedicated to the effects of chemical and physical agents on the nervous system, investigated the association between fluoride exposure in drinking water and cognitive deficits among children. The study involved 74 school-aged children living in rural Ethiopia. Researchers measured the participants’ exposure to fluoride through samples of community-based drinking-water wells and urine samples.

The study’s authors highlighted the need for additional studies involving children and adults to understand the potential neurotoxicity of low fluoride levels known to protect against dental cavities, as well as the effects of elevated fluoride levels in drinking water. Such research is essential to protect the cognitive health of children and to inform public health policymaking.

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Cognitive performance was measured using two assessments: the children’s ability to draw familiar objects and a standardized memory and new-learning assessment. The results showed that fluoride levels in drinking water were negatively associated with cognitive function, and that cognitive deficits were particularly strong among children exposed to high levels of fluoride.

CANNABIS SYNDROME

Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is a rare, but growing, condition of repeated and severe bouts of vomiting experienced by some marijuana users. The syndrome is difficult to predict or diagnose at this time, although its prevalence may be associated with the increased use and potency of the drug. Some long-term, daily marijuana users develop CHS late in life, while some young people also suffer from it after a few years of heavy smoking. THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana, is thought to be responsible for CHS symptoms, because it binds to receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system that regulate sleep and other bodily functions.

SLEEP REGULARITY FOR LONGER LIFE

The findings from a study published in the journal Sleep highlight that sleep regularity, defined as the day-to-day consistency of sleep-wake timing, is a powerful predictor of mortality risk. The Sleep Regularity Index (SRI) was calculated from over 10 million hours of data from 60,977 participants in the UK Biobank. The study found that a higher SRI was associated with a 20 to 57 percent lower risk of mortality, even after adjusting for various factors such as age, sex, ethnicity, lifestyle and health biomarkers. Sleep regularity was associated with lower risks of all-cause, cancer and cardiometabolic mortality across the top four SRI groups compared to the least regular group. Importantly, sleep regularity outperformed sleep duration as a predictor of mortality risk, indicating its potential as an important predictor of health and longevity. Further research is needed to establish causality and explore the underlying mechanisms.

Although the exact mechanisms that trigger this illness remain unclear, mounting evidence suggests that prolonged cannabis use can lead to the rewiring of receptors and nerves in the gut and esophageal sphincter, leading to CHS symptoms. Some patients have found relief by rubbing creams with capsaicin—a chili pepper extract—on their arms or belly. Experts believe that the warming sensation created by these balms activates a receptor in the stomach that can calm nausea and vomiting. Aleksandr Kravtsov/ Getty

Since 1945, cities and municipalities in the United States have added fluoride to community water systems to prevent tooth decay. As of 2020, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that nearly 73 percent of Americans have fluoridated water; however, there is growing concern about the negative effects of fluoride exposure.

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FLUORIDE EXPOSURE AND COGNITIVE DEFICITS IN CHILDREN

January 2024

Global Briefs TRACKING A PREHISTORIC WOOLLY MAMMOTH

Scientists have successfully followed the movements of a 17,000-year-old woolly mammoth named Kik, shedding light on the ancient mammal’s epic journeys across Alaska. This groundbreaking study, published in Smithsonian magazine, used isotopes found in mammoth tusks to trace the animal’s travels in unprecedented detail. The arctic woolly mammoth, which stood 12 feet tall and had tusks up to 12 feet long, roamed the Alaskan interior during the Ice Age. Kik’s range expanded as he grew, covering vast distances between the Brooks Range and the Alaska Range. The research revealed that mammoths walked much farther than previously believed.

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To create an accurate map of Kik’s journey, the researchers also collected isotopic data from rodents in Alaska. By analyzing the strontium isotopes in these rodents’ teeth, they were able to establish a strontium map of Alaska. The team then matched the strontium values in Kik’s tusk to the strontium map, allowing them to trace his travels and connect the dots of his route.

BUILDING CLIMATE-PROOFED HOMES

VANISHING BANANAS

Every year, more than 100 billion bananas are consumed worldwide, 47 percent of which is the classic yellow Cavendish cultivar. According to a recent report in ScienceAlert, a strain of the Fusarium fungus known as Tropical Race 4 (TR4) is causing an outbreak of a wilting disease commonly referred to as Panama disease, which threatens to eradicate this popular varietal. First discovered in Australia in 1997, TR4 has spread worldwide. The infection begins in the tree’s roots and ultimately disables its ability to absorb water or conduct photosynthesis. Because of its slow progression, experts believe the disease will take about a decade to completely wipe out Cavendish bananas. Although there is no simple solution to TR4, scientists are exploring several options, such as genetically modifying the fruit to be more resistant to TR4, grafting Cavendish onto other trees to make them more resistant, and evolving Cavendish seedlings by exposing them to TR4 and selecting those that fare best. These may turn out to be shortterm approaches, however, as the fungi could mutate. The best solution may be for farmers to stop growing only one variety of banana. By increasing the genetic diversity of the world’s favorite fruit, bananas may become less susceptible to diseases. On the other hand, introducing a wider variety of bananas could drive up costs and would require an overhaul of ripening and transportation practices.

Yasmeen Lari, an 82-year-old Pakistani architect, is leading an initiative to transform how Pakistan rebuilds after natural disasters by abandoning the reliance on concrete and embracing local architectural traditions.

She uses cheap, locally available, low-carbon materials to construct flood-resilient homes. This includes incorporating raised platforms and bamboo roofing waterproofed with straw and tarpaulin. The walls incorporate bamboo panels reinforced with earth and lime, ensuring waterproof structures that can withstand heavy rains. To implement her ideas, Lari founded the Heritage Foundation of Pakistan, which trains villagers how to work with these sustainable materials. Her goal is to build 1 million homes by 2024. 10

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Pakistan is highly vulnerable to natural disasters, and the increasing frequency and intensity of floods demand sustainable and resilient solutions. By using local materials and design techniques, Lari addresses the environmental impact of construction, reducing carbon emissions and embracing a more climate-friendly approach.

AVOIDING THE SINGULARITY

UPCYCLING PLASTICS INTO SOAP

Plastic waste has become a global environmental crisis, leading scientists to explore innovative methods for reusing and transforming it. A research study published in the journal Science provides evidence of the successful upcycling of polyethylene and polypropylene into a surfactant, the primary component of soap. The methods employed by the scientists led to a high conversion rate of 80 percent.

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Upcycling plastics into soap offers several benefits. Using plastic waste not only reduces the burden on landfills, but also minimizes the demand for virgin materials in soap manufacturing. Plus, economic analyses conducted by the researchers suggest that the high conversion rate makes the process economically viable. oap: Natalia Klenova

Singularity is a hypothetical future point where technological growth becomes uncontrollable and irreversible. It was thought to be decades away, giving humans time to plan. But Ben Goertzel, Ph.D., CEO of SingularityNET and a leading artificial-intelligence scientist, predicts that singularity is fewer than 10 years away. Goertzel believes that the advent of artificial general intelligence (AGI) is just around the corner, citing the progress made by large language models like Meta’s Llama2 and OpenAI’s GPT-4. These systems have increased global enthusiasm for AGI, leading to more resources, money and human energy invested in its development. AGI could create or modify its own algorithms, essentially teaching itself—something that currently available artificial intelligence does not do. Despite the numerous benefits that AGI could bring, some people are concerned about the potential risks associated with the technology. Detractors worry that AGI could become more intelligent than humans, leading to drastic unforeseeable changes in civilization. While it is difficult to predict the exact timeline in which AGI will become a reality, it is important to consider the ethical implications of this technology, ensuring that its development aligns with human values and does not lead to unintended negative consequences.

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No Embalming • Caskets Must Be Biodegradable • No Concrete Burial Vaults At Green Meadow, we believe that death is no mere end. In our natural, green cemetery, it’s a continuation, part of the great Cycle of Life – of death and rebirth, regeneration and decay – that turns to make all life possible. To schedule a tour or for more information contact Ed Vogrins: 610-868-4840 | Info@GreenMeadowPA .org 1121 Graham Street • Fountain Hill, PA 18015

January 2024

Feature Story

Graceful Aging Living Longer, Healthier and More Fulfilled by Carrie Jackson

eople are living longer, and as we age, we increasingly become aware of a desire to remain healthy, vibrant and active for as long as possible. It’s about extending our health span as much as our lifespan. While genetics play a role in how we experience the aging process, advancements in science are helping us understand that how we manage our mindset, physical activity, stress levels and diet can have just as much of an impact. By redefining what it means to get older and finding deeper meaning, we can embrace aging with grace and gratitude, rather than resist it. Many factors are within our control, and it is possible to live a fulfilling and vibrant life well into our twilight years. At nearly 103 years young, Dr. Gladys McGarey wrote the book on graceful aging.

As the author of The Well-Lived Life: A 102-Year-Old Doctor’s Six Secrets to Health and Happiness at Every Age, she suggests that we reframe aging as an opportunity rather than a loss, thereby pioneering a new way of thinking about disease and health. “At 102, I’m losing my eyesight, but my insight has improved,” says the cofounder of the American Holistic Medical Association. “I have trouble reading but can listen to audiobooks and have deep conversations with people. If we look for illness and pain at the end of life, that’s what our bodies will show us. But if we reach for health, joy, laughter and other realities of true humanity, that’s what we will find.” McGarey asserts that our medical community is trained to eliminate pain and illness rather than learn from their messages. “If we

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can lean into what understanding a disease shows us, we can discover true wisdom,” she explains. “You can hold onto the pain, or you can hold onto what you learn from the pain. When my son was training to be an orthopedic surgeon, he confided that he was afraid to have people’s lives in his hands. I responded that if he thinks he’s the one who does the healing, he has a right to be scared. Doctors provide the technology to turn the healing over to the patient, and we have the core knowledge of what to do inside of us.” McGarey is a firm believer that forgiveness is essential to freeing up stuck energy. Life has to move, she says, and letting go of feelings that may be lingering in our subconscious allows us to move forward with grace. “If we hang on to the dark places in our lives, we will get stuck. Pay attention to your dreams, both during the day and night, because they hold the truth. We all came here for a reason and have our life’s purpose. If you find that, you will always be fulfilled and can embrace the aging process instead of fighting it,” she says. Renowned alternative-medicine advocate Deepak Chopra, M.D., is an author, speaker

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From left, Tom O'Bryan, Gladys McGarey and Deepak Chopra

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and founder of the Chopra Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to research on well-being and humanitarianism. His latest book, Quantum Body: The New Science for Living a Longer, Healthier, More Vital Life, outlines how we can harness the power of the quantum body to significantly improve our physical and mental wellness, leading to a more fulfilling aging process.

Disease and aging are further downstream in the intelligence flow, Chopra notes, and when someone succumbs to a heart attack or cancer, intelligence has failed in either the cardiovascular system or a single malignant cell. “Instead of being anxious about cells, tissues, organs and systems, which aren’t under your control, you can live from the source where all controls are overseen by your quantum body. Here, all information is perfect, the ﬂow of intelligence is never wrong or distorted, and the creative possibilities for the future are boundless,” Chopra contends. One vital aspect of healthy aging that we can control is our approach to stress management, which Chopra says most people don’t take seriously enough. Stress can come from myriad sources, including family and social relationships; workplace stresses; a poor-quality diet; deficient sleeping habits; lack of exercise and downtime; and constant distractions from texting, video games and

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According to Chopra, our well-being depends entirely on the quantum ﬁeld, which exists on a subatomic level and is the infinite source of everyday reality that affects our thoughts, feelings, sensations and biological responses. “Your quantum body is the central hub for every process that requires intelligence, just as a power plant is the central hub for everything that requires electricity. The prospect of having your quantum body fail you is far more serious than any single symptom of disease and aging. Well-being is weakened whenever there is a failure of intelligence and is strengthened when intelligence ﬂows naturally,” he explains.

Tom O’Bryan, DC, age 70, and his 2-year-old son

around-the-clock news reports. That is why it is more important than ever to develop tools for self-care. “The frenetic pace of modern life has overwhelmed the autonomic nervous system, which is responsible for all the processes, from heartbeat to respiration and digestion, that run independently of your conscious actions,” Chopra advises. “Medical research validates how essential stress management is, but what needs to change are socially ingrained attitudes that persuade us to tolerate stress beyond what our bodies and psyches are designed for.” Chopra encourages prioritizing deep sleep, tuning into breath and awareness, and mindful exercises to return to our zero point—a state of rest from which activity springs. “Your awareness experiences the zero point as silent, calm, alert and pregnant

with boundless possibilities, where you have access to your next thought,” he explains. Embracing instead of resisting our quantum body further helps the energy flow. “The most natural way to live is in your dharma, or your truth,” Chopra says. “The greatest gift of self-awareness is that you can prove this to yourself every day by living with love, truth, beauty and bliss as your goal. Ultimate well-being requires no less, and living from your source reveals that the inﬁnite is personal and within reach. Physical well-being exists if you are able to live a long life in good health; mental well-being exists if you retain clear, sharp thinking; psychological well-being exists if you are free of anxiety and depression; and spiritual well-being exists if your life has higher purpose and meaning.” With more than 40 years of experience as a functional medicine doctor, Tom O’Bryan,

January 2024

DC, DACBN, CIFM, is an internationally recognized speaker and writer on chronic disease and metabolic disorders. He defines graceful aging as a state of full body function, without limitations and with rational expectations for what the body can do. O’Bryan points to the so-called Blue Zones, with an extraordinarily high percentage of people living into their 90s and above, as examples of those gracefully aging. “The lifestyle of people living in these areas includes daily rituals that reduce stress and reverse the inflammation associated with stress. As a result, they are able to live long, fruitful, happy lives as contributing and engaged members of society,” he notes. O’Bryan believes that the greatest contribution to living a vital life is identifying and reducing the triggers of inflammation in our bodies, which can largely be accomplished

with lifestyle modifications. “According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 14 of the top 15 causes of death are related to chronic inflammatory diseases. Many people address inflammation with medication, but they don’t realize that food is the best medicine,” he explains. “With diet being the largest source of inflammation activation in the body, it’s important to question what’s on the end of our fork and nourish the body with an anti-inflammatory diet, including berries, leafy greens, garlic, curcumin and plenty of pure water. Your body always wants to be healthier, and if we identify and reduce our exposure to the triggers of inflammation, the inflammation calms down.” Reducing inflammation also allows the central nervous system to settle into restand-digest mode, which can help the body

age more gracefully. “Inflammation is the immune system’s response to harmful stimuli,” O’Bryan says. “An activated immune system is a life-saving, non-negotiable state that sets our sympathetic nervous system into fight-or-flight mode. When we are stressed or fighting for our lives, our heart rate is fast; our breathing is short, sharp and shallow; and our muscles are tight and ready for action. When inflammation decreases, our bodies are able to calm down and activate the parasympathetic nervous system. In that very relaxed state, your heart rate is slow; your breath is deep; your muscles are relaxed; and your brain is open, expansive and daydreaming of new possibilities in life. That’s when healing and regeneration occurs.” Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer. Connect at CarrieJacksonWrites.com.

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Healing Ways

Individualized Alzheimer’s Treatments A New Frontier in Disease Reversal by Dana Thacker, BSN, RN

Photoboy/Canva Pro

Alzheimer’s or early-stage dementia were evaluated to identify potential contributors to cognitive decline using brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), genetic testing and other biomarkers. The scientists then designed an individualized, precision medical protocol for each patient.

ccording to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 6 million Americans suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, and the numbers are expected to rise to nearly 13 million by 2050. In addition to the loss of cherished memories, more than 11 million unpaid caregivers provide an estimated 18 billion hours of care for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients annually. Given the costs and burdens of the disease, many people wonder whether Alzheimer’s is reversible. Recent discoveries indicate that may be possible.

Mechanisms of Alzheimer’s

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describe Alzheimer’s disease as a neurodegenerative condition that results 16

in cognitive decline, memory loss and deficits in language and behavior. It is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States and the most common reason for dementia in older adults. During the early stages of the disease, neurons within the brain become damaged without apparent symptoms. This destruction can occur for a decade without recognition, resulting in delayed diagnosis and treatment. Protein buildup forces healthy neurons to stop functioning and sever connections, which likely provokes brain cell death and shrinkage.

Breakthrough in Treatment

Research published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease offers new hope for patients. Twenty-five participants with pre-

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Cognitive testing after the nine-month treatments showed that 84 percent of the participants not only maintained neurological function, but also improved cognition. A follow-up MRI also showed an increase in gray matter volume. The researchers noted in their report that a larger, controlled trial is warranted. “Dementia is not a death sentence,” states Kat Toups, a functional medicine psychiatrist and co-contributor to the precision treatment research. In her own practice, she embraces a patient-centric, multimodal approach to treating Alzheimer’s that focuses on three components—infection, inflammation and immunity. By reducing inflammation and treating infections, she asserts, the body is ready to receive immune-building therapies.

Answering the Skeptics

“Mainstream medicine has been going about [Alzheimer’s treatment] the wrong way. I was taught to make a diagnosis, then write a prescription for something that doesn’t work,” says Dr. Dale Bredesen, a co-contributor to the aforementioned study. Recent trials have suggested that

current pharmaceutical treatments for Alzheimer’s, such as Donanemab, merely slow the rate of disease progression, rather than reverse its effects. With his personalized, precision-medicine approach, Bredesen aims to do better. He equates Alzheimer’s to COVID-19, noting, “When the pandemic hit, nations entered protection mode. Economies suffered and went into a recession. In the same way, receptors within our brain can also go into a recession or protection mode. However, when these same receptors receive adequate resources, they continue to grow and make connections. Neurons shift from protection mode to connection mode, reversing the effects of Alzheimer’s.”

The Bredesen Protocol

Based on his research, Bredesen asserts that Alzheimer’s is the result of an imbalance in the brain’s neuroplasticity signaling. He has identified 36 factors that can trigger downsizing in the brain, including metabolic derangement, poor nutrient status, lack of trophic support [chemical signaling] and exposure to viruses. The Bredesen Protocol is designed to change a patient’s biochemistry to correct those imbalances by addressing patient-specific triggers. Apollo Health, where Bredesen is chief science officer, has developed a software algorithm that uses patient data from medical questionnaires, laboratory testing and cognitive assessments to offer an analysis

of the patient’s cognitive risk factors and a personalized treatment plan designed to prevent and reverse cognitive decline. The patient works with practitioners and coaches trained in the protocol to implement the treatment plan, which covers seven areas: nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress, brain stimulation, detoxification and supplements. The individualized nature of Bredesen’s Protocol is foundational to the program’s success. To learn more or to find a practitioner or coach trained in the Bredesen Protocol visit ApolloHealthCo.com/bredesen-protocol. Dana Thacker is a registered nurse with a passion for cures over treatments and naturopathy over pharmaceuticals.

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January 2024

Conscious Eating

Thyroid-Friendly Eating How to Treat Hypothyroidism With Food by Veronica Hinke

haped like a butterfly, the thyroid gland in the neck plays a critical role in overall health, as it produces a series of hormones that regulate metabolism, brain development, bone maintenance, and heart, muscle and digestive functions. Thyroid health can be achieved by eating clean, unprocessed foods and maintaining appropriate levels of iodine. According to the National Institutes of Health, nearly five in 100 Americans suffer from hypothyroidism, which occurs when the body does not produce adequate amounts of thyroid hormones. Common symptoms like weight gain, fatigue, inability to tolerate cold temperatures and hair loss should not be ignored. Diagnosis is aided by a blood test that measures levels of thyroid-stimulating hormones. While most cases of an underactive thyroid are mild or cause few obvious symptoms, the disease can become severe if it is left untreated.

“For women, an especially critical time to check thyroid health is during perimenopause years, when thyroid function can often waver, becoming underactive. Even if lab tests are normal, it is important to speak with a physician that understands the symptoms of hypothyroidism,” says Anna Cabeca, an obstetrician-gynecologist and women’s health expert in Brunswick, Georgia. “Most people can improve or reverse it radically. Diet is very powerful. Start with your shopping list and at the top write: Food is medicine.” Offering hope, Michigan-based obstetrician-gynecologist Tabatha Barber says, “It’s often about doing less, not more, to help

Bucks & Montgomery County, PA Edition

Skip the Gluten “Gluten is the main trigger that really seems to irritate the immune system,” says Barber. “A lot of people don’t realize that gluten is in some sauces, salad dressings, seasonings, medication fillers and more. It can be enough to keep the inflammation associated with hypothyroidism going.”

Minadezhda/ Canva Pro

“Only 10 percent of the population is aware of their thyroid problem and trying to manage it. Thyroid disease is a big thing. If people don’t know if they have it, they should be screened for it. If they have it, they should have hope,” says Alan Christianson, a naturopathic endocrinologist and author of The Thyroid Reset Diet: Reverse Hypothyroidism and Hashimoto's Symptoms With a Proven IodineBalancing Plan.

improve thyroid function. Don’t be afraid that this is something you have to live with forever.” As a teenager, Barber was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease, an autoimmune condition that affects the thyroid gland and often causes hypothyroidism. She has learned how to modify her diet for relief.

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Balance Iodine

“Iodine is the Goldilocks mineral,” says Christianson. “It’s important to not consume too much or too little. Those with thyroid disease usually get too much. When they do, it inflames and slows the thyroid.” In such cases, he recommends eating a wide range of unprocessed food and avoiding ingredients with the highest iodine content, such as fish and other seafood, iodized salt, seaweeds, grains and most dairy.

Monitor Ingredients

Barber prioritizes the elimination of artificial ingredients and additives, saying, “It’s about really getting back to basics, eating unprocessed meats, vegetables and some fruits.” She recommends consuming foods rich in zinc and selenium, such as shellfish,

legumes, seeds, nuts and diary, as they send signals to the thyroid to produce the right hormone levels. Cabeca shaves selenium-rich Brazil nuts on soups or salads. “Keep them as a staple in the kitchen,” she advises, adding that balance is important when selecting zinc- and selenium-rich foods because some of them, like dairy, may also contain high levels of iodine.

Eat Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Cabeca finds clever ways to sneak anti-inflammatory ingredients into her recipes. For her kafta kabobs, for example, she combines ground meat with finely chopped parsley, garlic, tomatoes or dried shiso leaves and tops them with cashew butter or tahini sauce. Similarly, she uses plenty of parsley in

her tabouleh—a traditional Middle Eastern salad—and replaces the customary bulgur wheat with chopped Brussels sprouts or cauliflower. According to Northwestern Medicine, cauliflower can be part of a healthy thyroid diet, along with other cruciferous vegetables. “These are foods that I grew up on,” Cabeca says, noting that parsley is a natural diuretic that is also good for the thyroid. Veronica Hinke is a food historian and author of The Last Night on the Titanic: Unsinkable Drinking, Dining and Style; Titanic: The Official Cookbook and Harry Potter: Afternoon Tea Magic. Learn more at FoodStringer.com.

KIWI CHIA PUDDING Sweet marshmallow/Shutterstock.com

YIELD: 4 TO 6 SERVINGS 3 Tbsp chia seeds 1 cup unsweetened flax milk 1 Tbsp maple syrup

1 tsp vanilla extract 1 cup kiwi, peeled and diced (about 3 fruits) 2 Tbsp pistachios, chopped

Add the ingredients, except pistachios, to a blender and blend for one to two minutes until smooth. Pour into a bowl, cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Garnish with chopped pistachios. Recipe and photo courtesy of Dr. Alan Christianson, NMD, from The Hormone Healing Cookbook.

January 2024

ROASTED BEET AND PISTACHIO SALAD YIELD: 4 TO 6 SERVINGS 8 medium or 4 large beets, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges

Dr. Alan Christianson

3 garlic cloves, minced ⅓ cup unsalted pistachios

2 cups baby leaf spinach leaves ¼ cup rice wine vinegar 1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste Misting oil

Preheat the oven to 350º F. In a medium bowl, toss the beets with the garlic and a mist of oil. Pour into a baking dish and lightly cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes or until the beets are tender. Let sit for 15 minutes until cool. In a salad bowl, combine the beets with the pistachios, spinach leaves, vinegar and olive oil. Salt and pepper to taste. Recipe courtesy of Dr. Alan Christianson, NMD, from The Hormone Healing Cookbook.

SALMON AND ROASTED VEGGIE SALAD YIELD: 2 SERVINGS 1 carrot, peeled, sliced and quartered 2 cups cauliflower, cut into florets ½ cup broccoli, cut into florets 1 cup mushrooms, chopped 1 Tbsp coconut oil 1 tsp garlic powder

6 oz wild-caught salmon fillet 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 1 Tbsp lemon juice 1 tsp Dijon mustard 3 cups baby spinach 2 Tbsp pumpkin seeds Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

Preheat the oven to 425º F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Add the carrot, cauliflower, broccoli and mushrooms to the baking sheet. Drizzle with coconut oil and season with garlic powder, parsley and salt to taste. Bake for 15 minutes.

Morgan Chorak

Remove from the oven and add the salmon to the baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Return to the oven and continue to bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Meanwhile, make the dressing by combining the olive oil, lemon juice and Dijon mustard into a small bowl. Whisk ingredients and season with salt and pepper to taste. Assemble the salad by dividing the spinach between bowls and topping with vegetable mix and salmon. Top with the pumpkin seeds and dressing. Recipe courtesy of Dr. Tabatha Barber. Photo by Morgan Chorak.

Bucks & Montgomery County, PA Edition

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I noticed a need for a platform that could bring together all the holistic-living resources available in our community. This was before smartphones, social media and the internet. If you didn’t see it in print, you didn’t know what was happening in your hometown. Our mission statement today is as clear as it was in 1994: to be a natural lifestyle publication that empowers people in our communities with the knowledge, resources and connections to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

Sharon Bruckman On Celebrating a Labor of Love by Sandra Yeyati

n 1994, Sharon Bruckman started a natural health, conscious living magazine called Natural Awakenings in Naples, Florida. Within a few years and with the help of partners and collaborators, she turned that single edition into a national franchise. In an industry that has seen so many publications fail, Natural Awakenings thrived under her steady leadership, at its zenith amassing 95 franchisee-publishers across the U.S., including Hawaii and Puerto Rico. Last year, Bruckman sold Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation to KnoWEwell, P.B.C., while still retaining her original magazine, essentially switching roles from franchisor to franchisee. As Natural Awakenings celebrates its 30th anniversary, she reflects upon her journey.

What inspired you to launch Natural Awakenings magazine?

It was divine intervention. I was going through a big transition in my life and praying about my livelihood—asking God to use my talents and passions to serve others in a way that felt fulfilling—and I heard a voice say, “Start a magazine.” It was surprising, because I had no background in publishing, so I started exploring the possibilities.

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How did the decision to turn it into a franchise come about?

I had a knack for starting up small businesses based on passions of mine, but when I launched the first edition of Natural Awakenings, I never considered franchising it until I met John Voell II, who had a background in it. The whole thing was intimidating for me, especially in the beginning. I’ve had to step out of my comfort zone most of the time in this business, but I’ve come to understand that being out of my comfort zone isn’t a bad thing. It’s an exciting place where I can grow, open myself to new possibilities and feel most alive. Luckily, I learned how to manage the business one new franchise at a time, and our staff and skillsets grew with each new publisher who brought their own strengths and perspectives to the family. It became a collaborative environment. I loved how the publishers got used to working together and solving issues.

What are the qualities of a successful team leader?

One is leading with your heart. I discovered that people need to feel valued and hear they’re doing a great job. I often express my appreciation and empower them to let their talents and strengths shine. People need love, kindness and encouragement. I don’t hold onto grudges and come to each encounter fresh. I strive to be open and honest.

I’ve learned over the years how to be a better mediator and negotiator through challenging conversations with publishers and staff members. The key is to reach for the highest and best result for everyone involved. It isn’t about being right. I don’t jump to the battlefield. I’ll speak my mind about the difficult stuff in a noncombative way—a way that comes from my heart and with openness, so people can feel safe to respond on that level. To succeed, you also need tenacity, a willingness to work hard and clarity about your mission. Overwhelm is the norm in this business, making it necessary to practice extreme self care. People say my best trait is how well I handle stress and always have a calming effect or attitude.

How did you help the franchisee-publishers succeed?

Working with publishers, you could predict which would thrive and which wouldn’t, depending upon their beliefs and statements. The ones that said, “No one wants to advertise,” you knew weren’t going to make it because of their attitude. The publishers that worked on their personal growth and on creating and manifesting what they wanted were much more likely to succeed.

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Do you have any mantras or personal beliefs that provide strength or resilience?

I like using “I am” statements because they’re two of the most powerful words. What you put after them shapes your reality. I’ll assert: I am vibrantly healthy. I am loved. I am full of abundance. I am always protected. I remind myself to stay in the present. When feeling discouraged or challenged, I turn to a YouTube video by Esther Hicks, who says repeatedly, “Everything always works out for me.” The way she says it, accompanied by lovely background music, makes it sound so sensible. If you repeat it enough, you begin to believe it. Sandra Yeyati is the national editor of Natural Awakenings.

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January 2024

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Fit Body

Preventing Falls in Advanced Age Essential Tips for a Life in Balance

by David J. Sautter, NASM (CPT, FNS, PES), ACE (SCS)

ccording to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one out of every four adults aged 65 and older report trips and falls each year, and 9 million of those falls result in an injury. These sobering statistics highlight the importance of learning how to prevent such mishaps. Here are five easyto-follow tips. • Create a Safe Living Environment: Decluttering walkways, securing loose rugs and keeping spaces clear can reduce the chances of tripping and falling. • Light Spaces: Low-light conditions can be a major culprit in falls. Install bright lights 24

and nightlights in essential areas like staircases and corridors to prevent missteps. • Equip the Home With Assistive Tools: For added safety, especially in potentially slippery places like bathrooms, install handrails, grab bars and non-slip mats. • Make Smart Footwear Choices: Opt for shoes that fit snugly, offer good grip and are comfortable. It is best to avoid high heels or any footwear with slippery soles. • Commit to Regular Exercise: Focusing on exercises that enhance strength, balance and flexibility can significantly lower the risk of falls. Whether it's yoga, walking

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or tailored balance exercises, staying active is key.

Importance of Exercise in Preventing Falls

Physical activity isn't just about staying fit or losing weight. “Exercise plays a big role in fall prevention,” says Debra Atkinson, certified strength and conditioning specialist and host of the Flipping 50 podcast. “Exercise goes far beyond strength, though. In fact, studies have shown just getting stronger doesn’t always lend itself to better balance.” For older adults, a combination of regular exercise and balance training can play a pivotal role in preventing falls. Here's why:

• Improving Balance: Balance exercises, such as tai chi and certain yoga poses, train the body to control and distribute weight in a centered manner. With better balance, the chances of stumbling or tipping are substantially reduced. • Enhancing Flexibility: Flexibility exercises can improve the range of motion in joints, resulting in smoother, more fluid movements, which can help prevent missteps and sudden falls. • Building Bone Density: Weight-bearing exercises like walking or resistance training can strengthen bones, reducing the risk of fractures in the event of a fall. • Boosting Confidence: Regular exercise can instill a sense of physical confidence. When individuals feel physically strong and agile, they're less likely to be overly cautious or afraid of falling. This can lead to a more active lifestyle, further reinforcing physical strength and balance.

Exercising Tips

Exercise for fall prevention focuses on consistency and the right activities, not just intensity. Here’s a concise guide: • Start Gradually: Begin with gentle activities like walking and stretching. As stamina is gained, increase the intensity. • Strength Training: Use resistance bands or body weight. Emphasize leg and core exercises, such as squats and leg lifts, to enhance stability. “Increase intensity by closing your eyes, then moving your head left to right during single-leg lift variations,” recommends

• Flexibility Workouts: Opt for yoga or tai chi, both of which boost flexibility and coordination. Jacob Lund/Canva Pro

• Strengthening Muscle Tone: Regular exercise helps to build and maintain muscle tone, which is crucial for everyday movements. Stronger muscles support the joints, making it easier to get up from a chair, climb stairs or recover quickly when starting to fall.

personal trainer Scott Elliott, of Del Mar, California. • Balance Exercises: Enhance balance with activities like standing on one foot, walking heel-to-toe or standing up without hand support. Atkinson recommends disruption practice during balance exercises. “Have someone gently come up and push a bit on your shoulder, hip or leg. You will have to react and respond just as you would if you were righting a fall. Do it on both sides.”

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• Join Group Classes: Consider activities that offer physical and social benefits, such as Pilates. Elliot encourages older adults to try dancing or boxing. “The art of coordinating left foot, right foot not only moves your joints but also exercises the brain. Mind-to-muscle is a necessary component to building strength, awareness and balance.” • Safety First: Exercise in a hazard-free space. If unfamiliar with equipment or exercises, seek guidance. • Set Goals: Stay motivated with achievable targets, whether walking longer distances or mastering new exercises. David J. Sautter is a certified trainer, fitness-nutrition specialist, and health and fitness writer.

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January 2024

Green Living

Growing Young in Nature How Seniors Heal in the Great Outdoors by Kelcie Ottoes

pending time outdoors is a valuable pastime for individuals in their golden years. Besides being exceedingly pleasurable, communing with nature, breathing fresh air, feeling the warmth of the sun or hearing birdsong can markedly improve a person’s physical, mental and emotional well-being. For seniors, exposure to green and blue spaces inspires a more active lifestyle that is both spiritually and socially engaged, thereby offsetting the challenges of chronic illness, disability and isolation. Whether playing Scrabble under the shade of a tree, strolling along the banks of a lake with friends or planting flowers and herbs in a raised garden bed, adding that outdoor element to any activity is a win-win.

gardening or simply enjoying nature contributes to improved physical fitness.” Gardening improves physical strength, flexibility, and overall health and quality of life. Older adults that regularly take walks report less pain and sleep problems compared to adults that don’t get outside every day. Nature also promotes healthier blood pressure, higher energy levels, lower heart rate, reduced stress, less chronic pain and a reduction of illnesses such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer and respiratory issues.

Mental and Cognitive Improvements

Nature offers mental and cognitive benefits to seniors. While simply viewing pictures of natural settings can reduce mental fatigue, a walk outside offers a greater positive impact. A University of Michigan study found that spending time outdoors can enhance memory and attention span by up to 20 percent. Forest bathing—a wilderness walk while engaging the senses—originated in Japan and has become increasingly popular with older populations. A study in Singapore found that seniors engaged in a horticulture program experienced improvements in sleep, cognitive function and psychological well-being, as well as a reduction in anxiety. Older populations that engage in more strenuous activities like walking, biking or running in natural settings have a lower risk of mental health issues. Green and blue spaces foster feelings of renewal, restoration and spiritual connection, while

Physical Rewards

Nathan Bilow/ Canva Pro

A vigorous workout outside is not necessary to derive benefits. Fresh air boosts the immune system by increasing white blood cell production. Merely living near trees can extend a person’s lifespan by up to 12 years, according to a Harvard University study of more than 100,000 women over an eightyear period. Another study of 350,000 people in Holland found that green spaces can improve overall health, reduce health complaints, lower the propensity for psychiatric illness and engender a general feeling of improved health. “Exposure to natural light fosters the synthesis of vitamin D, which is crucial for bone health and mood regulation,” says Dr. Ryan Sultán, an assistant professor of clinical psychiatry at Columbia University. “Participating in outdoor activities such as walking, 26

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physical activity in such settings enhances mood, reduces depression risks, lowers stress and improves cognitive function.

Emotional and Social Benefits

Loneliness and isolation greatly impact seniors, and social interactions outside can help alleviate some of this loneliness. Nature provides space for multi-generational social interaction and engagement, including planned activities with friends and family or impromptu gatherings with neighbors. Those with access to green space have a stronger sense of unity and belonging with their community. “Mindful walking is a simple way to get started building a relationship with the outdoors and is conducive to experiencing nature in a positive way while being present,” says John Dattilo, Ph.D., a professor in leisure studies at Pennsylvania State University. “To do this, we pay attention to the environment and notice things through our senses. We focus on what we are grateful for, including our surroundings or other aspects of our life.”

Overcoming Barriers to Outdoor Engagement

The main barriers stopping seniors from getting outside are mobility limitations, accessibility issues and safety concerns. One study found reduced mobility was the primary factor limiting nature experiences for older populations. “If we have a fear of falling, then we reduce our movement. If we reduce our movement, then we are more likely to fall, and that spirals,” says Dattilo. Caretakers can help by encouraging seniors to pick the activities they want to do, without stifling their interests. “If people pursue activities they have interest in, they are much more likely to experience leisure,” says Dattilo. “And leisure gives us meaning and purpose in life. It also helps us feel authentic. It’s not as much about recreational activity, and more about engagement.”

If seniors want to venture beyond their homes, choose accessible locations where there are paved paths, shelter and bathrooms. Come prepared for the activity. Dress comfortably, use mobility aids, apply sun protection and bring water and snacks. For those that are uncomfortable spending time in nature alone, invite others or join a senior-friendly program, class or event. If leaving the home or bed is no longer an

option, give virtual reality a try, which has been shown to provide seniors with some of the benefits of the outdoors. There are many commercially available virtual reality applications such as Google Earth VR and Wander on Meta Quest. Kelcie Ottoes is a writer for sustainable businesses and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings.

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Healthy Kids

Kidfluencers

identical twins decided to take action. They launched Positive Change Charities, a nonprofit that awards book grants to promote diverse authors to kids in need and underfunded K-12 libraries across Illinois.

Using Social Media for Positive Change by Megy Karydes

ocial media has made it easier than ever to share ideas, and today’s generation of digital natives are adept at using it. With one video post, they can reach thousands in minutes. Welcome to the world of “kidfluencers”: young people with throngs of online followers that use their platforms to sway their peers (and adults, too). Aged 16 or younger, these engaged leaders know the ins-and-outs of the latest technology and understand that there is power in becoming more than

just a passive viewer. While some use social media outlets to earn sponsorships or market products, others leverage their online brands to inspire agents of change and make a positive difference in the world.

Reaching the Reading Masses

When eighth-graders Kyra and Phallon Pierce noticed a racially insensitive book and zero multi-cultural authors on an assigned reading list, the Chicagoland-based

“We’ve given out about 4,000 books, and I’m really excited about that because we go to the schools and personally get to give those books out,” Kyra says. The twins are competitive dancers and use social media to promote their performances, and they employ those same venues to get the word out about their book-focused work. On Instagram, for example, the Pierce girls encourage Illinois kids to check out their curated reading list, apply for a grant or push for state legislation that compels the inclusion of diverse authors in K-12 curriculums. “I feel like [social media] is a really good tool to use, because it allows you to get to a wide variety of people,” Phallon notes. “It hits adults; it hits teenagers; it hits anybody. It allows you to really push your message out there.”

Mobilizing Community Cleanups

Erin Daniels

Known as The Conservation Kid, Cash Daniels is a 14-year-old influencer from Chattanooga who uses Instagram to promote Tennessee River preservation efforts. Since he began this work at age 7, he has helped recycle 2,000 miles of fishing line and remove more than 30,000 pounds of trash and two tons of aluminum cans from area waterways. He leads community cleanups and often speaks directly to children at school functions.

Cash Daniels speaks to his peers about waterway preservation.

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“Kids may be a small part of the population, but we're 100 percent of the future,” Daniels asserts. “And if somebody says you can't do it, get out there and prove them wrong.” Instagram is his preferred outlet because that’s where he feels he can reach the most people in the limited time he can commit to online endeavors. In addition to leveraging social media to inspire others, he has met some

Arroll highlights the complexities that parents must navigate when a child starts to earn money or products in exchange for social media influence. Those likes, shares and other types of engagement, she says, trigger the reward center in human brains, and that can lead to addictive-like behavior.

Erin Daniels

Recognizing the dangers, the parents of both the Pierce twins and Daniels limit their kids’ social media use and monitor posts so that they can address any worrisome events or behaviors before they get out of control.

A successful cleanup inspired by Cash Daniels.

of his best friends online, as well as people wanting to collaborate with him to amplify his message.

Protecting Young Influencers

While influencers like the Pierce twins and Daniels work hard to promote positive messages online, they are not immune to the more negative realities of being in the spotlight. If their interests or values don’t align with abusive keyboard warriors, these

well-meaning kids may be subjected to trolling, online bullying and hate speech. Dr. Meg Arroll, a psychologist and author of Tiny Traumas: When You Don't Know What's Wrong, but Nothing Feels Quite Right, believes that online influencing is a form of work and families should try to strike the right work-life balance. “How many hours a day would we allow our kids to work, even if it's something that they wanted to do?” she asks.

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Inspiring New Kidfluencers

When the Pierce twins visit schools, their audiences are comprised of kids just like them. “There’s no difference between us; we're all the same,” says Phallon, and Kyra chimes in that this commonality can be inspiring. Daniels believes that when kids see him in action on social media, they are motivated to act, as well. He is a role model —opening new possibilities for future kidfluencers. 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.

SMALL BUSINESSES ARE THE CORNERSTONE OF OUR COMMUNITY. LET US HELP YOUR BUSINESS – CONTACT US TODAY TO ADVERTISE IN OUR NEXT ISSUE: 908-405-1515 Natural Awakenings is a monthly publication for our community to pick up free of charge, made possible by the ongoing support of the advertisers you see within the pages of this magazine. If you enjoy the content provided within this publication, please support the advertisers who make this free magazine possible.

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Calendar of Events All calendar events for the February 2024 issue must be received by January 10 and adhere to our guidelines. To submit, visit NABuxMont.com/pages/calendar or email Kathy@NaturalAwakeningsNJ.com for a submission form.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 6 Yoga Nidra – 11:30am-12:30pm. Yoga Nidra is a form of guided meditation that helps you achieve a deep state of relaxation, so you can release tension and find peace within. No experience necessary. $30. Whole Body Yoga Studio, 103 E. Walnut St., North Wales. 215-661-0510. WholeBodyYogaStudio.com/ workshops. Vision Board Workshop – 1:30-3:30pm. Join us for an afternoon clipping images, words, and phrases to help you be more clear about your intentions. Give yourself a daily visual reminder of your dreams and goals. $35. Whole Body Yoga Studio, 103 E. Walnut St., North Wales. 215-661-0510. WholeBodyYogaStudio.com/workshops.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10 Change Your Life with Hypnosis – 6:309:15pm; Zoom. Barry Wolfson leads three one-hour virtual sessions. Take any or all. Stop Smoking with Hypnosis – 6:307:30pm. Lose Weight with Hypnosis – 7:308:30pm. Reduce Stress with Hypnosis – 8:30-9:15pm. $60 each session. For information and link to sessions, contact Barry at 908-303-7767, 610-353-2330 or barry@hypnosiscounselingcenter.com. HypnosisCounselingCenter.com.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 13 Jumpstart Your Fitness - Strong Bodies, Strong Minds – 1-2:30pm. Join us for an empowering afternoon where we’ll discover the synergy between physical resilience and mental well-being in this workshop aimed at cultivating both inner and outer strength. $35. Whole Body Yoga Studio, 103 E. Walnut St., North Wales. 215-661-0510. WholeBodyYogaStudio.com/workshops.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 14 Singing Bowls with Ruth Ratliiff – 4:30pm. Join us in the Scalar Energy Field for an hour of singing bowls. $40. Advanced Frequency Energy Spa, 431 Rte 22 E (Bishop’s Plaza), Whitehouse Station. 888-460-4050, text 908-864-8111. AdvancedFrequencyEnergySpa.com.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 20 Soul Shamanism 101 Advanced Spiritual Journey – 1/20-21; 10am-4pm; in person or Zoom. Experience an Ancient Wisdom practice that offers you direct access to your soul, who you are, and why you are here, and guides you in how to live your true Self. Profound awareness, wisdom, healing, clearing, and ongoing access to your personal and spiritual growth journey evolve as you deepen this practice. This first-level class talk by Janet StraightArrow

begins a lifetime journey of higher-level spiritual living, healing, and being your true Self now. $625/$650. Be The Medicine ( O n l i n e - I n - Pe r s o n -S e s s i o n s - C l a s s e s Retreats), 247 North Road, Chester. 973-6472500. BeTheMedicine.com. Family Yoga – 11:30am-12:30pm. Fun for the whole family! Open to all ages. Bring your yoga mats, an open mind, and an open heart and be ready to practice with your family!. $30 per family. Whole Body Yoga Studio, 103 E. Walnut St., North Wales. 215-661-0510. WholeBodyYogaStudio.com/workshops.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 21 The 7 Chakras & How They Affect Your Life – Noon-2:30pm. A 2.5-hour interactive workshop. Learn what the Chakras are, how to understand them in your body, and apply practices through asanas, breath and meditation that create equilibrium to your system. $50. Whole Body Yoga Studio, 103 E. Walnut St., North Wales. 215-661-0510. WholeBodyYogaStudio.com/workshops.

many cases, reversing debilitating, deadly, and chronic conditions like diabetes, pain/ neuropathy, arthritis, and dementia. $0. Dr. Lachman, 1432 Easton Rd, Warrington. 267406-0782. DrLachman.com.

SATURDAY, MARCH 2-3 Reiki 1 Energy Healing Training – 10am4pm. Heal You and Others Comprehensive Course. This practical, comprehensive, professional-level course offers personal healing and energy work teachings in addition to Reiki attunements, meditations, and practice, with everyone receiving an entire healing session: Usui Reiki 1 Certificate, Reiki 1 book, and class recordings. This class focuses on Self Healing and Spiritual Growth and Helping others and animals. Instructor: Janet StraightArrow. $390/$425. Be The Medicine, 247 North Road, Chester. 973-6472500. BetheMedicine.com.

Ongoing Events

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Sunday Toltec Shamanic Mitote Ceremony, Dreaming. – 2/10-11; 2pm-10am. Overnight retreat. Join us for this unique opportunity to work with a Shaman in this high-energy experience, release what no longer serves you, and welcome the New Year in this fantastic ceremonial weekend retreat with Janet StraightArrow. Experience Transformation, Deep, Profound, Intense Beauty Filled. This Mitote will have an additional practice to help us awaken and release the illusions so we can see them inside and outside us. $300/$350. Be The Medicine, 247 North Road, Chester. 973-6472500. BetheMedicine.com.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17 Costa Rica Yoga and Healing Retreat – 2/1725. Full week of yoga, reiki, Thai massage, breathwork, meditation and friendship in an outstanding tropical reserve for only $1800. Take your practice and your peace to the next level. Instructors include Dean Cramp of Transcend Healing Breathwork. Teva Hotel & Jungle Reserve in beautiful Costa Rica. Register at MajaYoga.com/retreats (Referral code: TRANSCEND). For questions and more information email aja@majayoga. com and visit HealingAndBreathwork.com/ upcoming-events/.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 26 Five Secrets to Diabetes, Dementia and Pain/Neuropathy – 11:30am-1:30pm. Bring your spouse or parent to this free, informative event. At Lachman and Associates, we are committed to improving the quality of life for seniors, while reducing, and in

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Qi Gong with JoeyG – 10:30am. Join us in the Scalar Energy Field for an hour of qi gong with an energetic kick. $40. Advanced Frequency Energy Spa, 431 Rte 22 E (Bishop’s Plaza), Whitehouse Station. 888-460-4050, text 908-864-8111. AdvancedFrequencyEnergySpa.com.

Monday Boot Camp with Eric – 6:05-6:50pm. 45 minutes of Boot Camp with Eric Ferguson. Eric will take you through muscle building exercises and some cardio.Monday evenings 6:05-6:50PM. 30. Yoga Loka, 23 Race Street, Frenchtown Borough. 908-268-7430. Yoga-Loka.com/bookingclasses.html.

Wednesday Yoga with Roberta – 6:30pm. Join us in the Scalar Energy Field for an hour of yoga with an energetic kick. $40. Advanced Frequency Energy Spa, 431 Rte 22 E (Bishop’s Plaza), Whitehouse Station. 888-460-4050, text 908-864-8111. AdvancedFrequencyEnergySpa.com.

Thursday Beginner Yoga 101 Series – 7:30-8:45pm. A 6 class series over 3 weeks for beginner yogis. You’ll learn the basics from the ground up. Includes a pass for 2-weeks of unlimited yoga and barre classes. $130 for 6 classes. Whole Body Yoga Studio, 103 E. Walnut St., North Wales. 215-661-0510. WholeBodyYogaStudio.com/workshops.

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Whole Body Yoga Studio

103 E Walnut St, N Wales 215-661-0510 WholeBodyYogaStudio.com

Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible. —Dalai Lama

January 2024

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