HOLIDAY TREATS

HOLIDAY TREATS FOR PETS Homemade Recipes They Will Love

by Tonya Wilhelm

leah kelleyPexels.com

Cooking for our pets is a great way to ensure they are eating wholesome, nutritional foods. It’s also a fun way to customize a pet treat recipe to meet specific dietary needs. These three festive holiday treats will have a dog woofing for more and a cat purring for seconds. Choose organic, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.

Pumpkins and apples are always at the top of the culinary list for holiday treats. Not only are these two foods safe for pets, they offer health benefits. Both are packed with fiber, which helps dogs feel fuller. It’s also good for digestive and colon health and can yield firmer stool. For the kitty friends, that fiber also helps move hairballs along. In addition, apples contain phytonutrients and flavonoids like quercetin, which are helpful in treating allergies.

The chia seeds in this pet pie not only help firm up the pie, but are packed with nutrients that naturally boost energy. Chia seeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids and are a great source of antioxidants. They also contain minerals, fiber, calcium, protein and vitamins A, B, D and E.

Cinnamon and ginger are wonderful spices to use in pet holiday treats. Both of these warming spices improve digestion and soothe the stomach lining. Select Ceylon cinnamon, not cassia cinnamon, because the latter contains higher amounts of coumarin, which can harm the liver and increase the risk of cancer. Ginger may act as a blood thinner, so don’t use it if a dog is going to have surgery or is pregnant. It may also lower blood pressure and blood sugar, so if a dog has heart issues or diabetes, talk to a vet. When in doubt, leave it out.

Beware of These Troublemakers

n Caffeinated products. Gary Richter, a holistic veterinarian in Oakland, California, and author of The Ultimate Pet Health Guide, suggests keeping caffeinated drinks and food away from pets. Caffeine contains stimulants called methylxanthines, and pets are much more sensitive to the effects of these substances than humans are. Ingesting even a small amount can make dogs vulnerable to caffeine poisoning, which can cause hyperactivity, panting, elevated heart rate, tremors, seizures and collapse. Seek immediate veterinary care for treatment if these symptoms develop in a dog. n Artificial sweeteners. San Diego veterinarian Madison Rose says artificial sweeteners such as xylitol can cause a massive insulin release, leading to acute and profound hypoglycemia, or low-blood sugar, and hypokalemia, or low potassium levels. Marked by lethargy, ataxia, collapse, twitching or seizures, ingestion requires immediate veterinary care. n Raw, yeasty bread dough. This will expand when ingested, potentially causing a deadly twisting of the stomach. n Raisins and grapes. Common in holiday recipes, in large quantities, these can cause kidney failure in dogs. n Nutmeg. A toxin for pets. n Cooked bones. Not only are these choking hazards, they can pose a serious threat to the digestive tract.

1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin 2 apples 5 eggs 1 cup goat’s milk 2 Tbsp chia seeds 1 tsp Ceylon cinnamon 1 tsp ginger Remove and discard the apple core and seeds. Place all ingredients in a mixer and blend. Then set it aside for 10 minutes to allow the chia seeds to begin to expand. Preheat oven to 350° F. Pour batter into preferred baking dishes, either for a large pie or small, bite-sized muffins. Bake approximately 15 minutes for small muffins or 40-60 minutes for a full-sized pie. Allow the pie to fully cool and set up before slicing and serving. Serve as a special treat to pets. Portion the remaining pie into serving sizes and freeze for later.

Eggnog for Pets

Raw eggs can be a healthy addition to any fresh pet diet, assuming the animal doesn’t have an egg allergy. Cow’s milk isn’t the healthiest option for dogs and cats because they don’t tolerate its high level of alpha-s1-casein protein. Goat’s milk is a healthier option because it contains extremely low to no amounts of this protein, allowing better absorption of the nutrients. 4 eggs 2 cups goat’s milk 1 tsp Ceylon cinnamon Blend all the ingredients. Either place a few tablespoons in the pet’s dish as a special treat or drizzle over the food. Alternatively, place a silicone ice cube mold on a cookie sheet for support. The smaller the cavities, the better. Take the remaining eggnog, pour into the molds and place in the freezer. Once frozen, pop out the treats and store them in a glass container in the freezer. Try serving one frozen treat to each pet every few days.

Turkey Meatballs

Making treats for cats can be tricky. The best bet is to head to the meat department. Even the most finicky of kitties will gobble up this healthy treat. 1 lb ground turkey 2 eggs ½ Tbsp dried peppermint Preheat oven to 350° F. Mix all the ingredients in a large mixing bowl until well-blended. Form into tablespoon balls using your hand or scooper and place on a lined or ceramic cookie sheet. Bake for 20 minutes until meatballs are set (they will be extra eggy). Carefully remove and place on a cooling rack. Serve as a special treat. Place treats in a glass container and refrigerate for up to three days or freeze until ready to serve. Thaw completely before serving.

Tonya Wilhelm is a professional dog trainer, spreading the word about positive methods of preventing and managing behavioral issues with a holistic approach. For more information, visit RaisingYourPetsNaturally.com.

Hello 2021

by Isabella Dussias

As we usher out 2020, we look forward to the future. We have never seen a year like 2020 as we witnessed a pandemic sweep across the globe. We have seen loss of life. We have seen our way of life change; the simple tasks and routines we once knew have been replaced by new protocols.

As teens, our school and social lives have been altered dramatically. Our school days look very different. The way we spend our time after school, from sports to clubs to the arts has taken new forms. Our decisions about where we apply to college or if we will apply for this upcoming year, all hang in the balance.

As we look to 2021 with uncertainty, we will acknowledge what we have learned and hope for the better. On December 31, at the stroke of midnight, teens yearn for a happier year—one like we used to know.

As we say hello to 2021, let’s hope it truly is a “Happy New Year”.

Isabella Dussias is a 17-year-old singer-songwriter/composer from New Jersey. She enjoys writing about issues that are important to today’s youth, and she believes music is an important outlet to connect people and share messages through the creativity of lyric and melody. For more information, please visit IsabellaDussias.com.

Yoga Corner

Yamas and Niyamas

by Nicole Zornitzer

The Western world view of the practice of yoga is often that of movement and exercise. However, there is much more to yoga than the pure “asana” (movement); in fact, asana is only one limb of the Eight Limbed Path of Yoga. In the Eastern world, yoga is a way of life—for some it is a spiritual experience; for others it is a means to better comprehend all that life tosses our way. In my case, yoga has saved my life multiple times and it is not because I can comfortably go upside down. Yoga goes much deeper than this.

Many years ago, in my quest for knowledge and a deeper understanding, I began to dive deep into the yamas and the niyamas. These Sanskrit words and ideas of wisdom have molded the way in which I have chosen to live my life, experience my yoga and educate the population on such concepts.

The yamas and niyamas can be viewed as yogic ethical disciplines or observances that offer the practitioner a means to move through life both on and off the mat in a mindful and meaningful way. They encourage acceptance of and kindness to all, including one’s self, and offer tangible and non-tangible methods to heal. The 5 Yamas are translated as “restraints” or social disciplines: n Ahimsa (non-violence) – invites one to be non-harmful to oneself, others and the environment. n Satya (truthfulness) – encourages one to live life authentically. n Asteya (non-stealing) – introduces one to live life with integrity, in the present moment with gratitude. n Brahmacharya (non-excess) – enables one to accept that one has enough versus grasping for more. n Aparigraha (non-possessiveness) – asks one to let go of how one thinks life should be and instead accept the life one has to truly arrive present. The 5 Niyamas are translated as “observances” or ethical conduct: n Saucha (purity) – Maintain a pure body, thoughts and actions. n Santosha (contentment) – To be content with what we have and live authentically in the moment. n Tapas (self-discipline) – Exude your pure character and continue on a path of wellness. n Svadhyaya (self-study) – Understanding oneself to create a pathway of knowledge and acceptance. n Ishvara Pranidhana (surrender) – To let go of ego and open the heart to live life fully.

Yoga and the yamas and niyamas have provided me a pathway to wellness, the ability to be compassionate toward myself and others, and the framework to effectively and efficiently live a full life. The greatest lesson I have learned is that this life is short; thus, to live in the present, truly acknowledging all moments, appreciative for others who have entered and existed and understand that I was meant to experience them all. A full life is one that can be reflected upon at death with gratitude for everything.

Nicole Zornitzer, ERYT 1000, yoga therapist, founder of Niyama Yoga & Wellness Shala, located in Randolph, New Jersey, and Upper Lake Mohawk in Sparta, New Jersey. NiyamaYogaShala.com.

north wales

Kindred Yoga 1364 Welsh Rd 267-664-1022 KindredYogaStudio.com

Whole Body Yoga Studio 103 E Walnut St 215-661-0510 WholeBodyYogaStudio.com

breathe

Bucks/Montgomery Community business directory

Your local source for natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle Join the community! Request our media kit today by emailing Publisher@NABuxMont.com

Agribusiness

Fortis Farms, LLC Monika Christian and Kiley Doll 18230 Edwards Shop Rd, Elkwood, VA 540-409-6871 • Hello@GrowFortisFarms.com GrowFortisFarms.com

Fortis Farms’ goal is to create easy access to fresh, local food sources in a sustainable, resource-conserving system. We use and distribute aeroponic garden solutions to produce more, local, lower cost, healthy food in smaller spaces. See ad, page 3.

Behavioral Health

M.E. Matters 668 Woodbourne Rd, Ste 108, Langhorne 215-914-5344 MEMatters.org

Psychological and behavioral health services for individuals, couples, teens and families where mind, body and spirit matter. We offer neurofeedback, therapy and a spirituality awareness group. Our goal is to help you experience life with increased awareness and without fear. See ad, page 15.

CBD Oil

The Hemp Oil Store Joseph Wilker Cool Breeze Distributors • 3 E Ave, Yardley 855-904-4367, 267-679-2949 CoolBreezeDist@gmail.com TheHempOilStore.com

The Hemp Oil Store is a family-owned CBD store. Our goal is to bring you, your pets, and your loved ones high-quality CBD products at affordable prices. Shop online at TheHempOil Store.com with free shipping. We also have curbside pickup and walk-ins are always welcome. License Number 82-2609404. See ad, page 11.

Cosmetics - Organic

Mederi Cosmetics Terry Martin 570-575-8185 Terry@MederiCosmetics.com MederiCosmetics.com

Terry Martin, mother of five, is CEO, owner and founder of Mederi Cosmetics, offering both natural/organic and paramedical makeup lines (mainly for accident and burn survivors). Medical esthetician and paramedical makeup artist, motivational and lay ministry speaker, author of Makeup & More and Beyond Makeup, radio talk show host, newspaper founder. See ad, page 9.

Dentistry - Holistic

Holistic Dental Center Vladimir Gashinsky, DDS 91 Millburn Ave, Milburn, NJ 973-457-4688 HolisticDentalCenterNJ.com

Holistic dental care that is good for the body as well as teeth and gums. By treating the cause, not just the symptoms, Dr. Gashinsky helps improve his patients’ quality of life through dental care that respects and honors the body. See ad, back cover.

Lanap & Implant Center of PA David DiGiallorenzo, DMD Henry Hsu, DMD 184 W Main St, Collegeville 610-409-6064 • PerioImplants.us

Providing oral health solutions through holistic, biologically compatible and organic practices. One of the world's most accomplished centers for periodontal and implant care, which integrates wellness services into their therapeutic approach. Experience with immediate total tooth replacement with metalfree dental implants, treating gum disease with LANAP, a no-cut, no-sew method of treating gum disease, comfortable gum grafting with PRGF, implant denture solutions, and chronic pain management. See ad, page 11.

Hospice

Ascend Hospice 108 Cowpath Rd, Stes 3 & 4, Lansdale 215-542-2100 AscendHospice.com

Bringing a personalized and holistic approach to hospice care. Our trained volunteers offer aromatherapy, massage therapy, reiki and pet therapy to bring healing and wholeness to clients and their families. See ad, page 15.

Life Coaching - Gestalt

Step Into Joy Healing Arts Joan Summers, Certified Gestalt Coach, Trauma Professional and Reiki Master 267-272-9343 • StepIntoJoyHealingArts.com Joan@StepIntoJoyHealingArts.com

Experience deep and longlasting healing. Joan offers healing for her clients who are tired of feeling stuck, disconnected or without purpose. She offers Gestalt Life Coaching, Equine Gestalt Life Coaching and reiki, and you may choose to customize your session. See ad, page 17.

Metaphysical Services

Journey To The Self Linda Harbaugh, Intuitive Medium Certified Life Coach/Reiki Practitioner Linda@JourneyToTheSelf.com JourneyToTheSelf.com • 484-904-9268

Delivering messages of love and guidance from deceased loved ones and spirit guides via readings and intuitive reiki sessions. A certified life coach, Linda also offers intuitive coaching packages to help you navigate life, jobs and relationships. Psychology degree, former teacher, 30 years business experience. Telephone or in person.

Inner Harmony Wellness Center Peter Amato, PhD, DNM Board Certified Natural Medicine Two PA Locations 647 Wyoming Ave, Kingston 131 Reynolds Rd, Waverly 570-319-6073 • InnerHarmonyWellness.com

With 25 years of experience, we get to the root cause of your health concerns. Find out what is causing long-standing health issues and walk away with a precise care plan. Today's chronic illnesses are not located in the blood. We test at the cellular level. Our approach merges applied kinesiology, Quantum Biofeedback and (ART) Autonomic Response Testing developed by Dietrich Klinghardt, MD, PhD. See ad, page 21.

Nutritional Healing

Center for Natural Healing Jeffrey L Griffin, DC Bailiwick Office Campus, Ste 26, Doylestown 215-348-2115 • C4NH.com

Feeling poorly? Lacking answers? Improvement at a standstill? Locate the source of stress and the treatment becomes obvious. Mention Dr. Jeff’s 35 years of experience when you call and receive a free phone consultation to learn how we can start helping you today. See ad, page 23.

Reiki

Step Into Joy Healing Arts Joan Summers, Certified Intuitive Reiki Master and Gestalt Coach 267-272-9343 • StepIntoJoyHealingArts.com Joan@StepIntoJoyHealingArts.com

Experience peace of mind, enlightened awareness and physical restoration. The connections between physical pain and emotional trauma are often revealed during an intuitive reiki session. It is a practice of compassion and spiritual connection. See ad, page 17. Michelle Christine Sacred Rose Unity Barn, 4000 Sawmill Rd, Doylestown MichelleChristine@SacredRose444.com 215-840-8139 • SacredRose444.com

Michelle Christine supports women to reclaim and redefine their sexuality in any stage of their lives. Together we will work on helping you to love, nourish and celebrate yourself and your divine femininity. See ad, page 17.

Skin Care

Mederi Skin Care Jeramie Scott 570-575-8185 Info@MederiSkinCare.com MederiSkinCare.com

Pharmaceutical-grade skin care. Free of parabens. Natural and potent. Engineered for results. See ad, page 7. Inner Spa 4 Terry Dr, Ste 12, Atrium Bldg, Newtown Info@InnerSpa.org • 215-968-9000 InnerSpa.org • InnerVitalitySpa.com

A fully organic, holistic, eco-friendly wellness spa featuring an array of detoxification, cleansing and therapeutic services. The spa is one of the only facilities in the area to offer colon hydrotherapy. See ad, page 24.

Thermography

Lisa's Thermography and Wellness Lisa Mack, CCT, HHC • 855-667-9338 Thermographer and Holistic Counselor See website for locations in NJ, NY & PA Lisa@LisasThermographyAndWellness.com LisasThermographyAndWellness.com

Thermography gives an early look at the most important indicator of a potential health problem — inflammation. Earlystage disease screening is an area in which thermography excels. Whether your pain is acute or chronic, or you are merely curious about the state of your health, thermography can help provide answers. Radiation-free breast and full-body screenings for men and women. See ad, pg 17.

Wishing you the happiest of holidays and a wonderful new year!

Return to the natural Cycle of Life – to nourish soil, green a meadow and live on!

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