Natural Awakenings Central New Jersey / May 2024

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Join us in the EE System Energy Field! Qi Gong with JoeyG., 10:30am on Sundays Singing Bowls w/ Ruth Ratliff, 4:30pm, 5/11

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NORTH CENTRAL NJ EDITION

CONTACT US

Joe Dunne

Publisher

Joe@NaturalAwakeningsNJ com

908-405-1515 • Fax 239-920-5147

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Managing Editor, Design & Production

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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

The Heart of Community

Recently, I read that in the 1950s, doctors noticed that the residents of Roseto, Pennsylvania, were not suffering or dying from heart disease though heart disease was rampant in the U .S . This seemed rather odd, and it got their attention .

Roseto was a tightly-knit Italian immigrant community— hard-working and labor intensive . What was protecting its residents? How was this single group of people able to live relatively healthy lives, dying of old age and natural causes to a degree that challenged national, state and local health statistics Not only that, but Roseto had no suicides, no alcoholism or drug addictions, no welfare or even peptic ulcers . How was this possible? Researchers went looking for answers .

First, they looked at diet thinking that olive oil might be the key but quickly learned that lard was the fat primarily used in their cooking In fact, 41% of their diet came from fat! The residents also smoked heavily and were obese . Lead Investigator Dr . Stewart Wolf was baffled . He traced relatives’ medical histories back to Italy, and then to the U .S . Still nothing . They expanded their data collection to include nearby towns such as Bangor and Nazareth, Pennsylvania, both European settlements, in the same environment with matching populations, yet found nothing in comparison

Wolf was at a loss until he started to look at Roseto itself . He found it wasn’t diet, exercise or the water—it was the community that was different When Wolf and his associate Bruhn walked around the town, they noticed the intimacy of the residents They visited each other, cooked in their backyards, attended the same church, Our Lady of Mount Carmel . They had established social structures with generations of families living together, respect for grandparents, care for children and more . The researchers observed that it was the foundation of the community itself that created a calming effect on the ethos of the people The community shielded them from the modern world in some ways; the wealthy were discouraged from flaunting; and those who were unsuccessful were helped by all . Family meals were the norm, and extended family provided a security blanket .

In his efforts to share the research on the power of community and its benefits to health, Wolf was both ahead of his time and a confirmer of ancient wisdom . Community matters . When the spirit is lifted, joy and contentment are possible and overall health is more protected .

This reflects my feelings about the value of Natural Awakenings Each month our community works together—from readers, advertisers, contributors and staff of the magazine itself—to help foster relationships, to share, educate and help spread awareness, and to promote involvement in our community .

Sometimes going back to basics highlights the wisdom of the simplicity of living . As we move forward, I hope we can all draw closer in community .

With peace, love and laughter,

Joe Dunne, Publisher

A New Treatment for Low Back Pain

Introducing DiscSeel® — a revolutionary, patented, minimally-invasive new treatment for chronic low back pain. Even patients who have had prior surgery, including fusion surgery, may be candidates for this procedure.

Stephen J. Roman, Jr. M.D., PLLC

Dr. Stephen Roman’s practice serves patients from around the

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to provide services for disorders of the spine and joints in the fields of pain management and physical medicine and

The Discseel® Procedure uses a natural biologic substance called fibrin to seal tears in the spinal discs, becoming a part of the disc, and then promoting the growth of disc tissue.

During the Discseel® Procedure, part of the process is to look for torn discs using x-ray images. If the disc is shown to have a tear, fibrin is injected. The goal of the fibrin is to seal torn, leaky discs and promote regrowth of disc tissue. The procedure takes about 30 minutes and improvement in pain usually begins in 1-4 months.

Thriving In Sobriety

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Stephen Roman, M.D.

A New Treatment for Chronic Low Back Pain

Dr . Stephen Roman, M .D ., founder of the RegeneSpine, Regenerative Spine and Joint Institute, is now offering a new minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment for low back pain—the Discseel® Procedure

The Discseel Procedure identifies and treats disc annular tears and fissures, which are the true and underlying cause of most spine issues including disc herniations, bulges, degeneration and radiculopathy The precedure uses a substance called fibrin to seal tears in the spinal discs, becoming a part of the disc, and then promoting the growth of disc tissue . The physician begins the process by looking for torn discs using x-ray images . If a disc is shown to have a tear, fibrin is injected

The procedure takes about 30 minutes, and improvement in pain usually begins in one to four months . The focus is to provide the patient with a better quality of life, without surgery

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Next Level Health and Healing

Desiree Bohn is a Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach based out of Cherry Hill, New Jersey . She is passionate about helping folks that are frustrated or at rock bottom with their health and want to heal the all-natural way through food and vitamins, without medication . She will help you feel your best through personalized lifestyle changes that meet unique dietary, emotional and physical goals and needs Desiree offers food education, what you need to know about food and vitamins, and debunking food myths .

Desiree’s healing programs are based on cleansing the body of toxins, metals and viruses that many people do not realize may be the underlying cause of chronic illness, skin conditions, constipation, fatigue, bi-polar, ADHD, cancer, anxiety, depression, Lyme disease, autoimmune and many more conditions She offers help with sleep issues by addressing and teaching sleep hygiene and routines Desiree’s approach to healing has been described as caring, calm, personal and empathetic

Take your health and healing to the next level by reaching out to Desiree to get started In-person meetings are preferred and will take place in a local public location (coffee shop, library, etc .) or via Facetime/Zoom call .

For more information, Call Desiree at 609-541-1087 or email NextLevelHH@outlook.com. See listing, page 37.

National Herb Day Festival

Enjoy a day celebrating all the wonders of herbs! Enjoy free informative lectures and presentations, tours of spectacular gardens, as well as a Craft Market featuring a wide selection of vendors, basket and gift raffles, and food . All of this and more will take place from 9 a .m . to 5 p .m ., on May 4 at Well-Sweep Herb Farm in Port Murray .

Live musicians will add to the festivities, along with featured speakers including founder of Herbalist and Alchemist David Winston, RH, as well as his students and colleagues and more . Plus, a large selection of the farm’s 1,898 varieties of plants will be available .

Admission and parking are free at this rain or shine festival .

Location: 205 Mount Bethel Rd., Port Murray. 908-852-5390. For details, call 908-5390 or visit WellSweep.com.

As

Whether

Desiree Bohn

NATURE LOWERS RISK OF OSTEOPOROSIS

In a study published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, scientists investigated the effects of green spaces on osteoporosis and bone mineral density by analyzing data held in the UK Biobank of almost 400,000 people with an average age of 56, just over half of whom were women . In addition to the participants’ bone mineral density, the researchers calculated annual average exposures to air pollutants, such as nitrogen oxide and particulate matter, based on residential postal codes Those living closer to green spaces, natural environments and domestic gardens had greater bone mineral density and a five percent lower risk of developing osteoporosis In addition to air pollution, the scientists noted that psychological stress and physical activity levels appeared to influence the impact of green spaces on osteoporosis risk

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the prevalence of low bone mass, a precursor of osteoporosis in adults 50 and older, is 51 .5 percent in women and 33 5 percent in men . Osteoporosis weakens bones; increases the risk of fractures, chronic pain, reduced mobility and disability; and reduces quality of life . It affects nearly 20 percent of women and 4 .4 percent of men

TREATING FIBROMYALGIA WITH COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that causes pain and tenderness throughout the body, fatigue and sleeping difficulties Scientists do not fully understand what causes it In a randomized, controlled study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology involving 114 women, researchers found that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) was superior to educational materials alone in reducing catastrophic negative thinking associated with fibromyalgia

CBT is a form of psychological treatment that usually involves efforts to change thinking and behavioral patterns Strategies include facing fears instead of avoiding them, using role play to prepare for potentially problematic interactions and learning to calm the mind and relax the body .

To measure the participants’ responses to CBT, researchers used various assessment tools alongside functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), which measures the small changes in blood flow that occur with brain activity The participants that received eight weeks of CBT experienced a reduction on the Pain Catastrophizing Scale, compared to a smaller drop in the group that received only educational materials . Furthermore, fMRI scans indicated changes in brain patterns following CBT, suggesting its effectiveness in addressing catastrophic thoughts By providing evidence of tangible brain changes, this research can help validate the reality of chronic pain, which is often dismissed as being “all in your head . ”

LOW-DOSE CALCIUM SUPPLEMENTATION IN PREGNANCY

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, which include preeclampsia, complicate 2 to 8 percent of pregnancies and are estimated to cause 45,000 maternal deaths annually worldwide . These disorders are also associated with an increased risk of preterm birth, the leading cause of death among children worldwide

Calcium supplementation of 1500 to 2000 mg per day, divided into three doses, during pregnancy has been recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) since 2011 to reduce the risk of preeclampsia in populations with low dietary calcium intake Previous trials of high-dose calcium supplementation of at least 1000 mg per day reduced the risk of preeclampsia by more than half and the risk of preterm birth by 24 percent However, only a few countries have implemented routine high-dose calcium supplementation in pregnancy due to adherence concerns and high cost

The findings of two independent, randomized trials conducted in India and Tanzania to compare the efficacy of low-dose calcium supplementation (500 mg per day) to high-dose calcium supplementation (1500 mg per day) in reducing the risk of preeclampsia and preterm birth was recently published in The New England Journal of Medicine In each trial, 11,000 first-time pregnant women were enrolled The results indicate that low-dose calcium supplementation was as effective as the high-dose in terms of the risk of preeclampsia . The trial in India, but not the one in Tanzania, showed that the low-dose calcium supplement was as effective as the high-dose with respect to preterm birth

Ivan Jekic from Getty Images Signature/Canva Pro

Tick Talk

Tick Prevention Maintenance Calendar for the Homeowner

by Jennifer Molzen

Spring officially sprung on March 21 . We have turned our clocks ahead . We are looking forward to warmer weather, sunny skies and the smell of fresh cut grass The daffodils and tulips have recently bloomed, and we have ramped up the yard work that goes along with the warmer weather . Sadly, another season has started ramping up . Tick Season .

Have you ever considered putting together a tick control calendar for your property? Fortunately, many of the routine homeowner maintenance tasks already overlap with a tick control maintenance calendar

Spring

Spring seems to be where most of the calendar items take place In early spring, the first order of business should be a thorough yard cleanup . Leaf removal and landscape cleanup will remove the places where ticks have over-wintered and prefer to molt and lay eggs Next on the list is the removal of winter bird feeders and storing any loose seed (this includes grass seed) in mouse-proof containers Feeding birds in the summer draws rodents onto the property . Rodents are the number one carrier of ticks and tickborne disease . Repairing holes in retaining walls and backfilling are important measures This will dissuade rodents, such as chipmunks, from living in them Sealing up cracks will prevent ticks from hiding in them Repair any broken lattice under decks . This will dissuade the leaves from building up underneath (ticks lay eggs in moist, compact leaf litter) and prevent small pets, kids and wildlife from accessing these tick-friendly areas

Repairing leaky downspouts and gutters will ensure that water is directed away from the home This prevents unnecessary water pooling Keeping the grass cut and maintained will keep things a bit dryer, too . Ticks thrive in moister environments . When removing grass clippings, deposit them in a spot away from human activity . Grass clippings become compact, and this becomes inviting to a rodent for cover and the perfect environment for a tick to molt and lay eggs Female ticks lay thousands of eggs in the spring Remove compact grass thatch . This is the layer of dead grass and roots that can accumulate over time . This protected buildup is the perfect place for ticks to stay hydrated, due to the increased humidity

As the temperatures continue to climb, so does the growth of the grass along fence lines As the grass establishes itself in thicker

clumping forms, it provides the perfect cover for mice to travel Both sides of the fence should be maintained . Keeping the bases of the fences trimmed low to the ground with a weedwhacker will eliminate this rodent- and tick-friendly threat .

Now is also the time to thin out and divide overcrowded perennials When perennials are overgrown and crowded, they retain more moisture Spring is the least stressful time to divide them Prune back vines that have grown up fence posts and created dense overgrowth on arbors and trellises

Summer

As we roll into summer, the vegetation starts to grow more rapidly Keep up with thinning out any overzealous plants—this is also healthier for the plants, themselves Keeping plantings and bushes trimmed away from the siding of a house also reduces moisture levels and increases air circulation, encouraging a drier environment .

While mowing the lawn, pay attention to areas that grow quicker than the rest of the grass . These are the areas that, you guessed it, have a higher moisture content .

Other areas to maintain should include playsets, outdoor fire pits, dog kennels and sheds Prioritize areas where you spend most of your time

Fall

As we roll into fall, it is important to keep up all previous tick maintenance tasks . Keeping the yard tidy should be an ongoing project . Although egg-laying takes place in the spring, accumulated grass, leaf and pine litter help ticks molt to their next stage

The wildlife starts to behave differently as temperatures start to cool down . There is a sense of urgency about them . They are preparing for the winter months . Looking for additional food and nesting materials may bring them closer to the yard Be sure to store pool toys, garden gloves and other fabrics in rodent-proof containers These are favorites for nesting materials The same applies for utility tarps, deck umbrellas and seat cushions

Wood piles should be stored off the ground and covered . Elevating the wood pile allows for better air circulation, encouraging a drier environment Covering the pile will keep the wood drier The reduced moisture will be less inviting for ticks to over-winter inside any bark that has separated from the wood .

If planting spring bulbs, plants such as daffodils, hyacinth, allium and liatris are hardy, and the deer tend to stay away from them in the spring

Secure basement window well covers These prevent leaf build up

A thorough leaf cleanup after all the leaves have fallen should be your final warm weather task .

Winter

There isn’t much to do in the winter as far as outdoor maintenance This is the perfect time to repair broken mowers, weedwhackers and leaf blowers

For the most part ticks in New Jersey are in an “over-wintering” state called diapause They don’t truly hibernate or die in the winter Ticks can be active in the winter if the ground is thawed and temperatures are above freezing Thankfully, their activity does slow down a bit It is still important to be vigilant on the days that there is a warm spell

By following these tick maintenance strategies, you can remove many of the variables that make your yard inviting to ticks We hope that every season is a “tick-tackular” and tick-free one

Jennifer Meisenbacher Molzen, founder and owner of Tick Tackler, is author of The Tick Tackler Tutor: 3 Impactful Tick Reduction Strategies for the Homeowner. See ad below.

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Education is Power

The Tick Tackler Tutor understands that residents are eager to modify their yards for tick reduction but often lack the know-how. Our guide is here to show you the way, offering practical insights and actionable steps to become your backyard Tick Tutor.

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Navigating the Front Lines of Tick Prevention

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CLIMATE CHANGE MAY EXPOSE BURIED NUCLEAR WASTE

During the Cold War, American activities caused radioactive contamination in three countries, and the U S Government Accountability Office (GAO) recently issued a report about the status of these sites .

In the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), the U S conducted 67 nuclear tests at the Bikini Atoll and Enewetak Atoll between 1946 and 1958 Rising sea levels caused by climate change could mobilize the radioactive contamination, posing risks to fresh water and food sources According to the GAO, RMI officials (and residents) believe the U S Department of Energy is downplaying the current risk to human health posed by climate change-induced disturbances . Improvements in communication and environmental remediation strategies are recommended

In Greenland (part of the Kingdom of Denmark), the contamination stems from a closed nuclear reactor that powered a U S military research base Radioactive liquid is frozen in ice sheets, which Denmark is monitoring, as there is concern that climate change could release the contamination . While some studies suggest that much of the waste has decayed and will be diluted by melting ice, others highlight the presence of chemical waste such as polychlorinated biphenyls that could pose health risks

In Spain, two U S defense aircraft collided in 1966, spreading radioactive debris on the town of Palomares . The countries worked together to remediate the area after the accident, but some radioactive contamination remains Both countries signed a 2015 statement of intent to further clean up the site, but they still have not reached a final agreement

THE LOST CONTINENT OF ZEALANDIA

According to a recent study published in Tectonics, scientists have completed the mapping of Zealandia, a largely submerged continent located below the Pacific Ocean roughly between New Caledonia and New Zealand . Zealandia covers an area of approximately 1 9 million square miles, nearly half the size of Australia Only 5 percent of the continent is above water The continent was first discovered seven years ago, but this study has provided a comprehensive map of its boundaries .

By analyzing rock samples and magnetic maps, researchers were able to gain insights into how Zealandia formed and separated from nearby landmasses The granite samples collected from the northern portion of Zealandia contained zircon crystals, which hold valuable information about the continent’s geology . Through radiometric dating, scientists determined that these crystals formed around 100 million years ago, coinciding with the breakup of the supercontinent that once contained Zealandia

Magnetic mapping was also used to provide a broader understanding of Zealandia’s shape and structure . The researchers found that highly magnetic rocks were aligned with fracture zones in the oceanic crust, indicating the stretching of the supercontinent’s crust prior to the breakup This analysis helped confirm Zealandia’s geological connection to Antarctica and Australia .

GRAY WHALE SPOTTED IN THE ATLANTIC

The New England Aquarium reported an aerial sighting of a gray whale 30 miles off the coast of Nantucket Island . Gray whales, which lack dorsal fins, have not been seen in the Atlantic Ocean for more than 200 years, having been hunted out of existence This is the fifth sighting in Atlantic and Mediterranean waters in the last 15 years Scientists believe that the melting of Arctic ice caused by global warming may be at play .

According to the aquarium, “The Northwest Passage, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific through the Arctic Ocean in Canada, has regularly been ice-free in the summertime in recent years, partly due to rising global temperatures ” Without the sea ice that usually limits the range of gray whales, they can “potentially travel the Passage in the summer, something that wouldn’t have been possible in the previous century . ”

Orla O’Brien, an associate research scientist in the aquarium’s Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, said, “These sightings of gray whales in the Atlantic serve as a reminder of how quickly marine species respond to climate change, given the chance . ”

Gerald Corsi from Getty Images Signature/CanvaPro

Anna Cabeca

on The Hormone Fix

by Sandra Yeyati

Known as “the girlfriend doctor”, Anna Cabeca is triple board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology, integrative medicine, and anti-aging and regenerative medicine With 30 years of experience helping women optimize hormones and invigorate their sex lives, she is also certified in functional medicine and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy . Cabeca is the bestselling author of Keto-Green 16, The Hormone Fix and MenuPause . She has also developed a line of well-researched natural care products to relieve common issues such as vaginal dryness, incontinence, loss of libido and hormone imbalance, as well as nutritional supplements that complement her Keto-Green diet plans . She offers three online masterclasses, including Breeze Through Menopause, Sexual CPR and Magic Menopause .

What prompted you to develop the menus and recommendations in your books?

They stem from my own journey through early menopause at age 39 and being told there was nothing I could do but suffer or take an antidepressant Following an early version of my diet and lifestyle program, I was able to delay menopause and have my daughter

When I hit age 48, I started to gain weight and experience mood swings, brain fog, crashing fatigue, and an inability to concentrate or sleep through the night, which led me to develop my keto-green, or keto-alkaline, approach .

Can women relieve hormone-imbalance symptoms without medications?

Yes We can reduce 80 to 90 percent of symptoms in the first two weeks, and 90 percent over another couple of months, with natural interventions and no pharmaceuticals . My plans focus on the right nutrition and intermittent fasting to facilitate detox, support metabolism, increase insulin sensitivity and maintain an alkaline state

We also work on developing a positive mindset, getting good sleep by resetting your circadian rhythm, reducing stress, eliminating toxins, and testing, which helps you manage and chart your progress Then I will consider adding hormones For menopause and postmenopause, research says we do better with some hormone support .

What is the basic principle behind balancing hormones?

Getting your body to make and use your own natural hormones in a healthier, more efficient way . We do that with detox and by improving the sensitivity of the most powerful hormones in our body . It takes more than hormones to fix your hormones . More than 90 percent of the relief comes from food and lifestyle improvements

What hormones do you target in The Hormone Fix, and why?

When it comes to regulating and navigating the menopausal transition, you have to focus on the major hormones, which are insulin, cortisol, adrenaline and oxytocin There’s a hormone hierarchy . I compare it to a university where the students are all the hormones in our body—close to 50 of them—and they each have their own purposes and responsibilities Teachers are like insulin, cortisol and adrenaline because they regulate the classrooms . If you have an unhealthy professor that allows students to do whatever they want, there’ll be chaos in the classroom The most powerful hormone—the president of the university—is oxytocin, the hormone of longevity and quality of life .

Can you describe your Keto-Green diet?

The Keto-Green medicinal menus support your body’s detoxification and the metabolism of your hormones They include high-quality protein, high-quality fats and alkalinizing vegetables and fibers to support the gut and estrogen metabolism . To avoid the antibiotics and hormones in meat, we focus on nutritious, organic, wild-caught and grass-fed foods

Can you explain the alkaline component of the plan?

Courtesy Anna Cabeca

A higher alkaline urine pH is associated with less metabolic disease (diabetes, hypertension and heart disease) and stronger bones A more acidic diet takes you into a catabolic, breakdown state, instead of a build-up, nourishing state . We become more alkaline by eating alkalinizing vegetables and decreasing the acid load caused by things like sugar, stress, alcohol and dehydration I have people measure and monitor their urine pH

What recommendations do you have for loss of libido?

Sexual health is important for optimal health . We want to be fully functioning and capable in what we call the second spring of our lives It’s hard to feel romantic on your dinner date with your husband or boyfriend when you’re hot-flashing or your clothes don’t fit comfortably . Getting your sexy back is about feeling good in your own skin, being healthy, reaching a happy weight, feeling strong and having good energy, all of which come from healthy eating and healthy hormones

What advice do you have for staying motivated on our health journeys?

If you’re hitting a plateau, work with an integrative practitioner or join a group that is working on a common goal to motivate you through healthy community One of my patients the other day said, “You told me to have more fun, so I started taking dance lessons I haven’t taken them in 30 years, and it’s so much fun ” Be sure to bring more fun into your life Fun is the ultimate motivator

Sandra Yeyati is the national editor of Natural Awakenings magazine.

For an extended version of this conversation, visit NaturalAwakenings. com/2024/04/29/485469/ anna-cabeca-on-thehormone-fix or click the QR code.

Natural Births

A Look at Modern Midwifery

by Maya Whitman

LMaridav/CanvaPro

ife’s most wondrous gifts are the babies that come into the world every day, but the clinical birth environment is not always an ideal choice for everyone . Modern midwifery, a safe alternative, honors its ancient roots by aiming to provide a comfortable and beautiful passage for both mommas and little ones In countries like France, Sweden and Japan, midwives are involved in almost 75 percent of deliveries at birth centers, homes and hospitals . The practice is less popular in the U .S ., with only 12 percent involving midwives in 2020 .

“The birth experience became very medicalized at the turn of the last century out of necessity . However, midwives have been delivering babies for centuries in all types of settings . Birth is a natural process that does not necessarily need to take place within the confines of the hospital setting,” says Paul Quinn, a certified nurse-midwife in Ridgewood, New Jersey, and author of several books, including Prenatal Possibilities: Recipes for a Healthy Pregnancy… and Beyond.

Prenatal and perinatal psychologist Susan Highsmith, in Tucson, Arizona, notes, “Care in birth centers and at home can be far more personal . For women who experience low-risk pregnancies, a natural, home birth or birth-center birth can be a satisfying and safe alternative to a hospital birth There are a host of benefits for the baby that are not possible in hospital settings where protocols take precedence ”

One of the advantages of a natural birth is the mother-child bonding encouraged in a non-clinical setting . “Babies should not be placed in nurseries, but should be immediately

placed on the mother’s body and allowed to seek and find the breast,” Highsmith explains “Being taken away from the mother, as is frequently done in hospitals, is anathema . ”

MIDWIVES AND DOULAS

Aside from facilitating the birth process, midwives can provide medical care, prescribe medications and order blood tests and imaging Many are nurses and wellversed in any situation that might arise before, during and after labor

Doulas focus on nonclinical care by providing physical and emotional comfort, keeping expectant mothers informed and facilitating communication with the midwives and obstetricians on the team For Brooke Stenzler, a relationship coach in Bradenton, Florida, bringing a doula onto her birth team was an unexpected blessing “It freed up my husband to be present in a different way, and the doula provided the tender, maternal care that I needed,” she says . “Prior to the birth, I met with my midwife for regular prenatal checkups . She came to my house a month or so prior to the expected birth date to make sure everything was set up properly for a home birth . I also had a couple of meetings with my doula prior to the birth, so she could get clear on my goals and needs She also provided a prenatal massage ”

Stenzler and her brothers were all homebirth babies, so when it came time to plan her own pregnancy, choosing to have a midwife and a doula was an effortless decision . Her own midwife was seasoned, thus earning her confidence “She knew what signs to look for if there were a serious situation that might require transferring to a hospital,” she says . “I trusted that she would let me know if she felt that was necessary”

TAKING THE HELM

Choosing to partner with a midwife and/ or doula can be the first big step in a happy, healthy birth, but there are some things to

consider . State laws differ as to what a midwife can and cannot do, and insurance coverage varies from company to company . Thorough research is recommended to avoid any last-minute surprises

Quinn recommends beginning a search for the right person as early as possible . “Not all midwives or doulas practice the same . There needs to be a sense of trust, and a woman needs to choose someone who makes her feel safe, heard, respected and valued,” he advises “It’s okay to ask focused questions and inquire about a midwife or doula’s education Ask for references Check the internet for reviews, both good and bad, and verify if licensure is applicable It’s also a good idea to check for any disciplinary action from the state . ”

Bringing the next generation into the world is a hard job, one that demands support for body, mind and spirit “Ask any questions that relieve fears, doubt or uncertainty beforehand This is a mutually loving and, literally, life-enhancing relationship,” says Highsmith “Birth is a sacred event, which deserves reverence . ”

Maya Whitman is a regular writer for Natural Awakenings.

StraightArrow’s

The Road to Hormonal Harmony

Finding Balance and Thriving

by Marlaina Donato

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

Excessive stress, certain pharmaceutical medications, hormonal contraception, auto-

immune diseases and, in rare instances, tumors can throw the body into metabolic chaos . Supporting these fundamental allies through lifestyle changes that include a nutrient-packed diet, improved gut health, supplementation and medication, when needed, can help us get back on track . Most importantly, prevention is possible with the same approach

“Hormones are the behind-the-scenes influencers, ensuring your body operates smoothly and adjusting to the ever-changing

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

Even a slight imbalance of certain hormones—whether a deficiency or an excess—can compromise digestion, raise low-density lipoprotein (“bad” cholesterol),

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

OXYTOCIN AND OTHER KEY PLAYERS

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

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

2424 Lamington Road Bedminster, NJ 07921

973 267 2650

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Allergy Testing All who come to NJ Natural Medicine benefit from All who come to NJ Natural Medicine benefit from our holistic approach to treatment. Regardless of our holistic approach to treatment. Regardless of the reason for the visit, the guiding principal remains the reason for the visit, the guiding principal remains constant: to observe and treat the whole person, constant: to observe and treat the whole person, not just his or her symptoms. not just his or her symptoms.

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

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

“A holistic approach to thyroid and adrenal health considers the entire spectrum of an

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Andrey Cherkasov from

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

FERTILITY FACTORS

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

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

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

WHAT WE CAN DO

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

Everyday foods for hormonal happiness

Images/CanvaPro

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

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

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

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

Identifying and Treating Lyme Disease

An Integrative and Functional Medicine Approach

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

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

HISTORICAL CONTEXT

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

DIAGNOSING

A COMPLEX DISEASE

There are several complicating factors that make a Lyme disease diagnosis difficult The characteristic bullseye-shaped rash is present in less than half of cases and may disappear quickly . Early signs and symptoms such as fever,

chills, muscle pain, headache, joint pain, fatigue and swollen lymph nodes are easily mistaken for other illnesses

The utility of early lab testing is limited because the process takes several weeks and can lead to false negatives . This leaves physicians to rely on observable symptoms and rule out other possible causes A doctor will also ask if a patient has been out in the woods or grassy areas where they might have been exposed to black-legged ticks .

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

between Lyme and other tick-borne and non-tick-borne diseases

TREATMENT OPTIONS

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

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

The integrative and functional medicine approach to treating Lyme disease is multifaceted and customized, taking into account an individual’s health history, environmental factors and unique physiological responses . The overarching

goals are to target the infection, bolster the immune system, manage symptoms and promote overall well-being According to Dr . Darin Ingels, a licensed doctor of naturopathic medicine and author of The Lyme Solution, “All other therapies, no matter what they are, probably aren’t going to be as effective until you’ve really taken care of your gut health and your mental and emotional being ”

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

PREVENTION TIPS

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

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

STAYING INFORMED

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

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

Tick Talk

Spring officially sprung on March 21. We have turned our clocks ahead. We are looking forward to warm winds, sunny skies and the smell of fresh cut grass. The daffodils and tulips have recently bloomed and we are just starting with the yard work that comes with the warmer weather. Sadly, another season has started ramping up. Tick season.

• The best form of protection is prevention. Educating oneself about tick activity and how our behaviors overlap with tick habitats is the first step.

• According to the NJ DOH, in 2022 Hunterdon County led the state with a Lyme disease incidence rate of 426 cases per 100,000 people. The fact is ticks spend approximately 90% of their lives not on a host but aggressively searching for one, molting to their next stage or over-wintering. This is why a tick remediation program should be implemented on school grounds where NJ DOH deems high risk for tick exposure and subsequent attachment to human hosts.

• Governor Murphy has signed a bill that mandates tick education in NJ public schools. See this for the details. Tick education must now be incorporated into K-12 school curriculum. See link:

https://www.nj.gov/education/broadcasts/2023/sept/27/TicksandTick-BorneIllnessEducation.pdf

• May is a great month to remind the public that tick activity is in full swing. In New Jersey, there are many tickborne diseases that affect residents, including Anaplasmosis, Babesiosis, Ehrlichiosis, Lyme disease, Powassan, and Spotted Fever Group Rickettsiosis.

• For years, the focus has mainly been about protecting ourselves from Lyme disease. But other tick-borne diseases are on the rise in Central Jersey. An increase of incidence of Babesia and Anaplasma are sidelining people too. These two pathogens are scary because they effect our blood cells. Babesia effects the red blood cells and Anaplasma effects the white blood cells.

• Ticks can be infected with more than one pathogen. When you contract Lyme it is possible to contract more than just that one disease. This is called a co-infection. It is super important to pay attention to your symptoms. See link.

https://twp.freehold.nj.us/480/Disease-Co-Infection

A good resource from the State: https://www.nj.gov/health/cd/topics/tickborne.shtml

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

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

MEETING FUTURE CHALLENGES

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

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

Footloose Fitness

The Joys and Benefits of Dance Classes

by Kelly Mercedes

Getting fit offers many health benefits, including stress management and better cardiovascular health, but stepping into a dance class can also increase levels of feel-good neurotransmitters that reduce pain and boost mood From fusion dance to ballroom and hip hop, today’s studios provide plenty of diversity in their class offerings; a welcoming, non-judgmental approach; and encouragement for all ages to try something new .

“These days, there are many entries into dance that are non-performance-based—dancing just for the joy of it, to feel the endorphin rush that happens when moving your body to music,” says Jessica Gleason, founder and lead instructor of Seattle Dance Fitness, in Shoreline, Washington Aside from the perks of better balance and a stronger, more supple body, dancing can help us build solid social bonds, too “Step into a dance fitness class at a gym, studio or community center, and you will definitely meet new people, foster relationships and feel like you’re a part of a bigger community, all things that are positive for your mental health and well-being,” Gleason adds

Kelly Peckholdt, owner and director of Positions Dance Studio in Babylon, New York, champions the “emotional regulation due to the release of serotonin when you are dancing I personally always feel so much better after a dance class . ” She reminds us that we do not need to be born with a talent to boogie “A lot of people believe that

they must be flexible or have good balance in order to try a dance class, but we dance so that we can gain those benefits . Moving your body is for anyone at any age and any shape or size ”

BENEFITS ABOUND

Taking up joyful swing or invigorating salsa can not only support muscle and joint health, but also get us to a healthier weight A 2015 study led by Dr . Nick Smeeton, a UK lecturer at the University of Brighton Department of Sport and Exercise Science, revealed that many dance styles, including ballroom, ballet and contemporary, can burn more calories than running, cycling or swimming The research team, which measured key biomarkers in adult dancers, found that up to 600 calories could be burned in one hour

A 2017 meta-analysis of 18 studies involving ballroom, contemporary, jazz and cultural dance forms, published in Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, found significant improvement in stamina, muscular strength and balance in older adults, as well as improved psychological well-being . According to the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation, dance can be a boon to the skeletal system . The brain is also positively impacted by doing a little cha-cha or line dancing Research published in 2017 in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience reports improved cerebral white matter—the part of the brain that governs thought processing and speed—through folk dancing .

DANCE CLASS OPTIONS

“There is so much more to dance than classical ballet,” Peckholdt says “I think that ballet, tap and jazz are very manageable for older adults, in perhaps a beginner-level class ”

Gleason recommends four branded modalities that are popular these days: Zumba, a cardio workout with Latin-inspired dance moves; Jazzercise, a high-intensity workout that blends dance with Pilates, yoga, kickboxing and strength training; REFIT, a dance class that incorporates emotionally uplifting and community-building components to keep students motivated; and WERQ, a cardio-dance workout that incorporates trending pop and hip-hop music .

TOSS OUT PERFECTION

To find a class, Gleason suggests Googling “dance workout near me”. She also advises a healthy amount of patience when trying something new . “We always remind newcomers that it takes some time to learn the moves and that they aren’t supposed to look and move like the instructor . They are supposed to move and look like themselves . ”

For some, taking the plunge and walking into a studio is the hardest part Gleason inspires us when she says, “So many people tell me it took them forever to try a class because they were nervous about trying, but once they did, they wished they’d done so sooner”

Kelly Mercedes is a narrative journalist and contributor to KnoWEwell and Natural Awakenings .

Junessa Rendon from capturenow/CanvaPro

Balancing Gluten

Making Peace With an Oft-Maligned Ingredient

by Deborah Bevilacqua

The rise in prevalence of celiac disease and related conditions, and shifts toward paleo, keto and other gluten-free diets, have driven the gluten-free products market from $973 million in 2014 to $6 .5 billion in 2022 . The market for these products is expected to reach $15 .1 billion by 2032 according to The Brainy Insights, a market research company However, switching to gluten-free products is not a one-sizefits-all decision .

Celiac disease affects an estimated 1 percent or approximately 3 million Americans, although approximately 60 to 70 percent of those have not been diagnosed, according to the Celiac Disease Foundation . The illness is an autoimmune condition that results in tissue damage in the small intestine, which may be accompanied by abdominal pain, gas and bloating, cognitive impairment, constipation, diarrhea, anxiety, fatigue, anemia, skin rashes and joint pain . It is diagnosed with blood tests and confirmed by taking pictures inside of the small intestine

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

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

GLUTEN AND THE GUT

Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, spelt, semolina, farro, barley and rye These grains are a source of fiber, B vitamins, trace minerals and other nutrients .

Many studies have associated whole-grain consumption with improved health outcomes . For instance, as part of a healthy diet, wheat has been found to reduce the risk of diabetes, heart disease and weight gain

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

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

Olga Larionova from Getty Images/CanvaPro

“Changes in your diet can alter your microbiome within one to two days,” says Dr . Tom O’Bryan, an expert on wheat-related disorders, NCGS, celiac disease and their link to autoimmune diseases “When you go on a gluten-free diet, you remove prebiotics that feed the good bacteria in your gut . This then causes the bad bacteria to flourish and reproduce, resulting in increased inflammation in your gut, a contributor to disease ” This makes sense as 70 to 80 percent of immune cells are present in the gut .

EFFECTIVE GLUTEN-FREE DIETING

Whether a gluten-free diet is required because of a gluten-related disorder or by

choice, it is essential to add prebiotic foods to replace the beneficial impacts lost when eliminating wheat and other grains . Prebiotic and probiotic supplements are a start, but consumption of vegetables is the key .

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

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

FINDING BALANCE

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

For otherwise healthy people, finding a

balance between enough gluten to feed gut probiotics but not so much that it results in gut permeability issues is important . “If you decide to continue consuming gluten, opt for whole or minimally processed einkorn wheat, rye, barley, spelt and Kamut wheat,” says Ross “These grains have not undergone hybridization and are not typically sprayed with glyphosate before harvesting

Additionally, consider consuming sprouted or fermented forms of these grains, as they can be more digestible . ”

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

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EASY FERTILITY KITCHARI (QUINOA AND BEAN STEW)

YIELD: 6 SERVINGS

2 cups dried mung beans, soaked in water for 8-12 hours

1 Tbsp coconut oil, ghee or olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

1 tsp ground cumin

14 oz spinach, kale, collards or any other greens

2 tsp Celtic sea salt

1 13.5 oz can full-fat coconut milk

2 cups quinoa

7½ cups water

Optional: cilantro, avocado

Heat oil in a pressure cooker (such as an Instant Pot); add onion, garlic and cumin . Sauté until fragrant; stir occasionally . Add greens, soaked mung beans, quinoa and water . Put the lid on, and pressure cook for 12 minutes Once pressure has fully released, open the lid and stir in coconut milk Top it off with fresh avocado and cilantro before serving

Recipe courtesy of Aumatma Simmons.

We Have a Choice

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

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

A Major Transition

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

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

The Key: A Unified Vision of Sharing and Justice

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Calendar of Events

Calendar events must be received via email or submitted online by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email kathy@NaturalAwakeningsNJ.com or NaturalAwakeningsNJ.com to submit online.

SATURDAY, MAY 4

National Herb Day Festival – 9am-5pm. North New Jersey’s AHG Chapter is hosting this FREE Herb Day Festival to provide a place for all who are interested in the herbal community to gather, reunite and share knowledge. Herb Day is an unofficial holiday founded in 2006 to encourage the celebration and education of medicinal and culinary herbs. Also includes tea meditations, singing bowl demonstrations, vendors, garden tours, herb walks, music and delicious food. Well Sweep Herb Farm, 205 Mt. Bethel Road, Port Murray.

Shaman Class – 7:30-9:30pm - NEW CLASS. Are you interested in Shamanism? Join Shaman, Lauren Porter and learn how to properly journey to meet your medicines and allies, clear and create sacred space, put together your mesa and medicine bag, work with the plant, animal and stone kingdoms, embrace your shadow self, dream work and much more. $20pp each class; Pre-Registration required. A Year and a Day Mystical Shoppe, 413 Bond Street, Asbury Park. 848-217-2371. Email: Ayearandadaymysticalshoppe@yahoo.com. AYearAndADayMysticalShoppe.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 5

Allergy Removal Day! – 12noon-4pm. Become Free Of Your Allergies. Through the usage of a very fast and powerful NLP technique you can become free of your allergies. This is a walk-in event with no appointments needed. The technique only takes about 10-15 minutes and is extremely effective. $40 per person. Alien Ink Tattoos, 264 Rt 206 S, Unit 3, Flanders. For information, contact 973-652-7962, 908-283-0117 or hgmertine@gmail.com. AlternativeTherapiesWork.com.

Special Event: Akashic Records, Stone Path or Medium Reading – 2-6pm. The Akashic Records hold information about your soul’s past, present and future. During an Akashic Records reading, Cherise taps into your records, offering you channeled messages from your guides, masters, teachers and loved ones. Session is 45-60 minutes. $125. A Year and a Day Mystical Shoppe, 413 Bond St., Asbury Park. For information call 848-217-2371 and visit AYearAndADayMysticalShoppe.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 7

Change Your Life with Hypnosis – 6:309:15pm. Barry Wolfson leads three one-hour sessions. Take any or all for tools to help you change your life for the better. Stop Smoking with Hypnosis – 6:30-7:30pm. Lose Weight with Hypnosis – 7:30-8:30pm. Reduce Stress with Hypnosis – 8:30-9:15pm. $50 each session. Palisades Hills High

School, 35 Churchill Rd., Kitnerville, PA. For more information, contact Barry at 908-3037767 or barry@hypnosiscounselingcenter. com. HypnosisCounselingCenter.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 9

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.

FRIDAY, MAY 10

Reiki 1 Energy Healing Training – 9:30am3:30pm. 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: FULL DAY INTENSIVE Usui Reiki 1 Certificate, Reiki 1 book, and class recordings. $395/$425. Be The Medicine, 247 North Road, Chester. 973-647-2500. BeTheMedicine.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 11

Change Your Life with Hypnosis –9am-12noon. Barry Wolfson leads three one-hour sessions. Take any or all. Stop Smoking with Hypnosis – 9-10am. Lose Weight with Hypnosis – 10-11am. Reduce Stress with Hypnosis – 11am-12noon. $60 each session. Hypnosis Counseling Center, 28 Mine St., Flemington. For information, contact Barry at 908-303-7767 or barry@hypnosiscounselingcenter.com. HypnosisCounselingCenter.com.

Backyard Medicine – 1-3pm. Come explore the beautiful benefits of the “weed” plants making their spring debut. Get to know the many benefits that chickweed, plantain, dandelion, and violet have to offer. Taste a variety of recipes that include these abundant and fun edibles,and learn more about using spring plants to create syrups, oils, vinegars and infused vinegar. $45. Mad Lavender Farm, 452 Co Rd 579, Milford. 908-310-5973. MadLavenderFarm.com/ workshops/workshops/.

Singing Bowls with Ruth Ratliiff –4:30pm. Join us in the Scalar Energy Field for an hour of singing bowls. $77. Advanced Frequency Energy Spa, 431 Rte 22 E (Bishop’s Plaza), Whitehouse Station. 888-460-4050, text 908-864-8111. AdvancedFrequencyEnergySpa.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 12

Past Energy Grounding & Clearing

– 6-8pm. Eliminate past baggage, and remove past negative energies Join Howard Mertine of Alternative Therapies Work, LLC, as he hosts a two hour guided hypnotic, reiki infused journey to clear away what is no longer serving you! Giving you a fresh start for all of your future endeavors.Call to RSVP as seating is limited (8 people). Secure your seat with a paid reservation. $40 per person. Alien Ink Tattoos, 264 Rt 206 S, Unit 3, Flanders. For information and to RSVP call 973-652-7962 or 908-283-0117, hgmertine@ gmail.com. AlternativeTherapiesWork.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 14

An Evening of Mediumship & Spirit Art –7-9pm. The 3 mediums will contact loved ones on the other side and rich will also be sketching the spirit energy that he sees coming through. Registration required. $65. Infinity Holistic Center, 3108 Route 10 West, Unit 6, Unit 6, Denville. 973-945-4330. InnerSoulWellness.com/events.

SATURDAY, MAY 18

Lap Loom Weaving Workshop – 10am2pm. Using a wooden lap loom (that you take home!) weave your very own piece of art. We will be discussing different techniques and exploring the practical and artistic uses for weaving. Bring a bag lunch to enjoy. Early registration is $90 (before May 10th) Coupon Code LAPLOOM24. $110. Mad Lavender Farm, 452 Co Rd 579, Milford. 908-310-5973. MadLavenderFarm.com/ workshops/workshops/

Past Lives Regression Workshop – 1-3pm. Let’s take a look into your past—past lives, that is! Join Howard Mertine (of Alternative Therapies Work, LLC) in partnership with Everett Magie (of Alien Ink Tattoos), as we host a two-hour guided hypnotic journey to take you into your own past lives! You may even uncover why you do some of the things you do in your current life! Space is limited (8 people). Secure your seat with a paid reservation. $40 per person. Alien Ink Tattoos, 264 Rt 206 S, Unit 3, Flanders. For information and to RSVP call 973-652-7962 or 908-283-0117, hgmertine@gmail.com. AlternativeTherapiesWork.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 19

Plant Medicine Making – 1-3pm. Learn basics of plant medicine making with local herbalist April Morecraft. Together we will explore how to make topical and internal preparations. Discuss tinctures, infused vinegars, infusions, decoctions, syrups, infused oils, salves, compresses, poultices, and flower essences. Learn how to make a salve. Inc. printed material, remember to bring a notebook. $66. Mad Lavender Farm, 452 Co Rd 579, Milford. 908-3105973. MadLavenderFarm.com/workshops/ workshops/.

Pendulum Divination Workshop – 6-8pm.

Develop your psychic talents Learn the art of pendulum divination! Join Howard Mertine of Alternative Therapies Work, as we host a class in the art of pendulum divination! Connect with your higher self, lost loved ones & your own spirit guides. Receive divine answers to burning questions in minutes! Includes booklet and pendulum kit. Call to RSVP as seating is limited (6 people). Secure your seat with a paid reservation. $40 per person. Alien Ink Tattoos, 264 Rt 206 S, Unit 3, Flanders. For information and to RSVP call 973-652-7962 or 908-283-0117, hgmertine@ gmail.com. AlternativeTherapiesWork.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 25

Mushroom Cultivation Workshop – 1-3pm. Mushroom cultivator and forager Kacy Binz walks each step of the growing process, from mycelium to mushroom in a fun and hands-on way. Mushroom snacks and tea will be provided, as well as printouts of all the information. $65. Mad Lavender Farm, 452 Co Rd 579, Milford. 908-310-5973. MadLavenderFarm.com/workshops/

THURSDAY, MAY 30

Working with Stones and Crystals – 7:309:30pm. Maria guides participants in how to choose stones by vibration and feel, work with them in your everyday life, how to care for your collection and more! Inc. a Crystal Bible book and 2 stones/crystals. $65; pre-registration required by May 15. A Year and a Day Mystical Shoppe, 413 Bond Street, Asbury Park. 848-217-2371. Email: Ayearandadaymysticalshoppe@yahoo.com. AYearAndADayMysticalShoppe.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 1

Space Within: EFT Tapping for Stress Reduction and Self-Regulation – 10am2pm. Join us on this journey towards improved well-being, where you’ll uncover how EFT can aid mindfulness and selfregulation while navigating the complexities of modern life. Bring a bag lunch. $95. Mad Lavender Farm, 452 Co Rd 579, Milford. 908-310-5973. MadLavenderFarm.com/ workshops/workshops/.

Soul Shamanism 101 Advanced Spiritual Journey – 6/1-2; 10am-4pm. 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 personal and spiritual growth journey evolve as you deepen practice. $595. Be The Medicine, 247 North Rd., Chester. 973-647-2500. BeTheMedicine.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 8

The Tibetan Three Heart Mantras Workshop – 10am-4pm. Spend a day of deep spiritual immersion on the farm with certified soul healer and teacher Lopon Bön Chong Ma, practicing the

Tibetan Three Heart Mantra. Rain or shine in the Picnic Pavilion. $125. Mad Lavender Farm, 452 Co Rd 579, Milford. 908-3105973. MadLavenderFarm.com/workshops/ workshops/.

SUNDAY, JUNE 9

Channelling and Automatic Writing –10am-4pm. Awaken spiritual connections and gifts, write with greater flow for all your projects and marketing. Join Janet StraightArrow as she creates a high-energy container and opens you to a path of awareness to receive abundantly. Tap into your wisdom and creativity concerning your life, health, daily life, soul purpose, and more. $325. Be The Medicine, 247 North Rd., Chester. 973-647-2500. BeTheMedicine.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 14

English Lavender Wreath Workshop –6-8pm. Join us on the farm to make a wreath of freshly harvested Super Blue lavender with Nicole of Spadaflora Botanical Artistry Lavender lemonade and lavender shortbread cookies will be served to nibble and sip. Limited to 8 attendees. Rain or shine. $160. Mad Lavender Farm, 452 Co Rd 579, Milford. 908-310-5973. MadLavenderFarm. com/workshops/workshops/.

SATURDAY, JUNE 15

Lavender as Medicine – 1-3pm. Are you mad about lavender? Join herbalist April Morecraft for a workshop about the healing and restorative properties of lavende for reducing pain, promoting sleep, decreasing anxiety and tension, wound healing and so much more. $60. Mad Lavender Farm, 452 Co Rd 579, Milford. 908-310-5973. MadLavenderFarm.com/workshops/ workshops/.

SATURDAY, JUNE 22

Kitchen Medicine – 10am-2pm. Did you know that taking a dropper of sage tincture before bed lessens night sweats? Or that it can aid bleeding gums and soothe a sore throat? Come explore all the benefits Sage, Rosemary, and Thyme want to share with us! $55. Mad Lavender Farm, 452 Co Rd 579, Milford. 908-310-5973. MadLavenderFarm. com/workshops/workshops/.

FRIDAY, JUNE 28

Women’s Treasure Yourself Retreat Catskills – 6/28-30; 2pm-1pm. Leave stress behind; as we dive into our beauty and truth, we awaken our strength, inner peace, and deep love. Women are the original Shamans, Wise Women, Warriors, and Healers. Release old ways of thinking and being and go home a new woman refreshed with a new way to be. $695. Art Farm, 31 Fawn Road, North Rd., Accord, NY. For details, call 973-647-2500. BeTheMedicine. com.

FRIDAY, JULY 26

Shamanic Vision Quest Retreat Catskills – 7/26-28; 2pm-1pm. A Vision Quest is an opportunity to be in a sacred space to hear your heart speak, receive the fullness of who you are, and open up to the next stage of your life path. It is a gift that is magical, deep, and transformative. Shaman guide Janet Straight Arrow provides unconditionally loving support. $595/$695. Art Farm, 31 Fawn Road, North Rd., Accord, NY. For details, call 973-647-2500. BeTheMedicine.com.

Ongoing Events

Sunday 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.

Reiki 1 Energy Healing Training – 10am4pm. Reiki Master Janet StraightArrow leads this practical, comprehensive, professional-level course offers personal healing and energy work teachings in addition to Reiki attunements, meditations, and practice. $390. Be The Medicine (Online In-Person-Sessions-Classes-Retreats), 247 North Road, Chester. 973-647-2500. BeTheMedicine.com.

Spiritual Life Coaching with Maureen –12noon-5pm. Learn to trust yourself through

Classifieds

Fee for classifieds is $30 for up to 30 words each month. Additional words $1 each. To place listing, email content to Joe@NaturalAwakeningsNJ. com. Deadline is the 10th of the month.

Metaphysical Shop

OFFERINGS – A unique gift shop for the mind, body and soul. Check out our collection of angels, candles, cards, crystals, crystal soaps, jewelry, sage, salt lamps, solar wind chimes, tea, t-shirts, tumbled stones and more. Card readings, classes and workshops available. Metaphysical & Spiritual Bliss, 19A Old Highway 22, Clinton. 908268-8029. FB Metaphysical & Spiritual Bliss. Instagram @cmatsen11

reaching for a better understanding of why we do what we do. How do we find ourselves in the same situations again and again? Learn the potential that lives within each one of us. Open hearted conversations help us manifest the abundant life we seek. $55. Riverside Wellness & Enchantments, 23 Bridge St., Milford. 908-403-6653. RiversideWellnessAndEnchantments.com.

Monday

Wu Ji Jing Gong Qi Gong - Beyond Beginners – 12noon-1pm. Patty Pagano guides students into greater depth analysis and refinement of movements. Prerequisite Wu Ji Jing Gong Qi Gong for beginners. Series discounts: $80/4-wk or drop in $25. Private sessions also available. Martinsville Community Center, 1961 Washington Valley Rd., Martinsville. 908392-1313 or pattygigongforhealing@gmail. com. QiGongForHealing.com.

Wu Ji Jing Gong Qi Gong - Beyond Beginners – 8-9pm; Zoom. Patty Pagano guides students into greater depth analysis and refinement of movements. Prerequisite Wu Ji Jing Gong Qi Gong for beginners. Series discounts: $60/4-wk or drop in $20. 908-392-1313 or pattygigongforhealing@ gmail.com. QiGongForHealing.com.

Tuesday

Reflexology With Julia Ferris – Noon-

SAVE THE DATE

Reiki 1 Energy Healing Training Heal You and Others Comprehensive Course.

Reiki Master Janet StraightArrow leads this practical, comprehensive, professional-level course offers personal healing and energy work teachings in addition to Reiki attunements, meditations, and practice.

May 10 • 9:30am-3:30pm • $390 Be The Medicine 247 North Rd., Chester 973-647-2500 • BeTheMedicine.com

5pm. By stimulating reflexology points related to organs and glands, reflexology helps to correct physical imbalances, ease anxiety, reduce fatigue, regulate circulation, decrease sinus pressure, alleviate joint pain and many other conditions. $55. Riverside Wellness & Enchantments, 23 Bridge St., Milford NJ. 908-403-6653. RiversideWellne

Wu Ji Jing Gong Qi Gong: Beginners –2-3pm. Students learn 15 meditative and repeating movements that will help you relax and open your mind, body and qi plus principles of alignment. No prereq

req. Led by Patty Pagano. $80/4-wk or drop in $25. Private sessions available. Move in Grace, 294 Main St., Chester. 908392-1313 or pattygigongforhealing@gmail. com. QiGongForHealing.com.

Wu ji Jing Gong Taichi Beyond Beginners – 5-6pm. Patty Pagano leads class focused on the healing aspect of the art with emphasis on developing taichi self practice to gather and direct Qi within your body. Prereq: Wu Ji Jing Gong Taichi for Beginners. Led by Patty Pagano. Series disc: $80/4-wk or drop in $25. Martinsville Community Center, 1961 Washington Valley Rd., Martinsville. Private sessions available. 908-392-1313 or pattygigongforhealing@ gmail.com. QiGongForHealing.com.

Sound Journey With Alex – 7pm. 2nd Tues. Take a deep breath and experience this sound journey with Alex. Vibrations affect the body at the molecular level and improve our well-being. Reduce stress and insomnia, increase immune system strength, reduce anxiety, promote nervous system regulation, increase circulation, accelerate healing, increase mental clarity, improve intuition and creativity. $25. Riverside Wellness & Enchantments, 23 Bridge St., Milford NJ. For information, call 908-403-6653 and to book online visit RiversideWellnessAndEnchantments.com.

Wednesday

Energy Healing with Karena – 12noon-

5pm. Relax on the biomat while receiving an energy healing, creating a sense of balance and serenity. Treatment can include infrared heat therapy, Reiki, crystal chakra balancing, aromatherapy, guided meditation, sound therapy and Shamanic energy healing. $100. Riverside Wellness & Enchantments, 23 Bridge St., Milford. For information, call 908-403-6653 and to book online visit RiversideWellnessandEnchantments.com.

Meet Lauren! – 4-5pm. Looking for a trauma-informed therapist? Meet with Lauren Lia LCSW for a free virtual 15-minute consultation to determine if she might be a good fit for your counseling needs! Read about Lauren and her specialties at our website, Healing-Pathways.org/team. Schedule via phone/text at 908-434-6008, or admin@healing- pathways.org.

Reiki With April Morecraft – 5-6pm. By channeling universal life force energy, April assists to bring out the healer within. You will experience deep relaxation & unconditional divine love as the healing energy flows to where it is needed to help you heal physically, emotionally or spiritually. $55. Riverside Wellness & Enchantments, 23 Bridge St., Milford, NJ. 908-403-6653. RiversideWellnessAndEnchantments.com/ private-sessions.

Meditation4Sobriety – 5:30-6:30pm, online, Chakra, 12-step Meditation including breathwork, mudras, guided visual meditations, and journaling with Tanya D, founder of The Peace We Crave. Donationbased. tanyad@thepeacewecrave.com. yoga4sobriety.com/schedule.

Free Yoga Wednesdays – 7-8 pm.; Mar. 6, 13, 20. Ongoing, free class for all ages and levels, led by a teacher with 25 years of experience. Practice the ancient art of yoga and find strength, flexibility and stability … in both body and mind. No registration necessary. Please wear loose clothing and bring a mat. Bethlehem Township Recreation Center, 405 Mine Rd. Asbury. For more information, email Yoga with Jane at janeschear@ptd.net.

Thursday

Acupuncture – 12noon-5pm. Acupuncture is an ancient healing therapy that is used to treat the entire body’s systems— physically, emotionally, hormonally, and more. $100 per treatment. Riverside Wellness & Enchantments, 23 Bridge St., Milford. For information, call 908-403-6653 and book online at RiversideWellnessandEnchantments.com.

Wu Ji Jing Gong Qi Gong: Beginners –1pm; Zoom. Students learn 15 meditative and repeating movements that will help you relax and open your mind, body and qi plus principles of alignment. No prereq req. Led by Patty Pagano. Series disc: $60/4-wk or drop in $20. Private sessions available. 908-392-1313 or pattygigongforhealing@ gmail.com. QiGongForHealing.com.

Yoga Flow & Restore with Andrea –6-7pm. This class blends physical postures, kriya, and flowing sequences with relaxing restorative and yin postures to move

energy and balance mind and body. It is suitable and accommodating for all levels. $18. Riverside Wellness & Enchantments, 23 Bridge St., Milford. 908-403-6653. RiversideWellnessAndEnchantments.com.

Wu Ji Jing Gong Qi Gong: Beginners –7:30-8:30pm. Students learn 15 meditative and repeating movements that will help you relax and open your mind, body and qi plus principles of alignment. No prereq req. Led by Patty Pagano. Series disc: $80/4-wk or drop in $20. Martinsville Community Ctr, 1962 Washington Valley Rd., Martinsville. Private sessions available. 908-392-1313 or pattygigongforhealing@gmail.com. QiGongForHealing.com.

Friday

Gentle Yoga With Julia – 7-8pm. Julia Ferris teaches Gentle Yoga that is “Iyengar inspired” with the intention of wholeness, harmony and healing. This slower-paced practice offers a well supported practice including movement and breath. This is a perfect beginning yoga class that is also appropriate for those working with injury, limited mobility or who prefer a softer, gentler approach to yoga. $18. Riverside Wellness & Enchantments, 23 Bridge St., Milford NJ. For information, call 908-403-6653 and to book online visit RiversideWellnessAndEnchantments.com.

Saturday

Adaptive Chair/Mat Yoga With Laura – 8:30-9:30am. This class will be a combination of chair and mat yoga as it suits the individual student. That means that some students will do a pose in a chair while others are doing the same pose seated on the mat, or on their hands and knees on the mat, or using the wall. We will also use our full supply of bolsters, blocks, blankets and straps to make poses both more accessible and more challenging. $18 or discount packages available. Riverside Wellness & Enchantments, 23 Bridge St., Milford NJ. 908-403-6653. RiversideWellnessAndEnchantments.com/ book-online.

Astroherbalism With Sara Villani – Noon5pm. 3rd Sat. Astroherbalism allows us to understand the energetics of a person and their condition by unraveling the connections between the individual’s human experience and celestial bodies. Free consultation. Riverside Wellness & Enchantments, 23 Bridge St, Milford NJ. 908-403-6653. RiversideWellnessAndEnchantments.com/ private-sessions.

“We have committed the Golden Rule to memory; let us now commit it to life.”

- Edwin Markham

Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email Joe@NaturalAwakeningsNJ.com to request our media kit.

Acupuncture

ACUPUNCTURE WORKS CENTER

Kristin A. Dudley LAc 84 Park Ave, Ste G-103C, Flemington 973-979-1652

AcupunctureWorksCenter.com

Gentle acupuncture with Kristin Dudley LAc can be both very relaxing as well as healing. Acupuncture has been used for centuries to ease muscle and arthritis pain, relieve stress, increase energy and improve sleep. Welcome everyone and de-stress in a nurturing and healing enviroment. See ad, page 27.

DR.

ANDY ROSENFARB, ND, LAC

Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine; Board Certified in Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine

332 South Ave East, Westfield 908-928-0060 • AcuVisionTherapy.com

Dr. Rosenfarb is world renowned in the field of holistic eye health and passionate about helping people with degenerative eye diseases. Call now to qualify for your free copy of his groundbreaking book, Recover Your Vision. Additional specialties include glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa and diabetic retinopathy. See ad, pages 29.

Bedding - Organic

HIBERNATE BEDDING

80 Morristown Rd, Bernardsville 908-766-5450 • HibernateBedding.com

Exclusive collection of Organic and Chemical Free mattresses and accessories. Over 30 years family experience. Come see how easy it is to shop for a mattress. Free delivery, free set up, free removal. See ad, page 4.

May, more than any other month of the year, wants us to feel most alive.

—Fennel Hudson

Chinese Healing Arts

QI GONG FOR HEALING

Brian Coffey LMT, and Fran Maher, CA 908-647-1563 • QiGongForHealing.com

Specializing in T’ai Chi and Qi Gong classes, as well as private session clinical Qi Gong and acupuncture since 1994. See ad, page 15.

Eye/Vision Health

DR. ANDY ROSENFARB, ND, LAC, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine; Board Certified in Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine 332 South Ave East, Westfield 908-928-0060 • AcuVisionTherapy.com

Dr. Rosenfarb is world renowned in the field of holistic eye health and passionate about helping people with degenerative eye diseases. Call now to qualify for your free copy of his ground-breaking book, Recover Your Vision. Additional specialties include glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa and diabetic retinopathy.See ad, page 29.

Flooring & Carpet

FLOORS DIRECT

315A Main St., Bedminster 908-574-2920

FloorsDirectNJ.com

Custom natural wool rugs and stair runners, sustainably sourced hardwood, environmentally safe and sustainable luxury vinyl floors. Independently owned family business. Free Estimates. See ad, page 3.

Frequency Therapy

ADVANCED FREQUENCY ENERGY SPA 431 Rt 22 E (Bishop’s Plaza) Whitehouse Station 888-460-4050, text 908-864-8111 AdvancedFrequencyEnergySpa.com

We offer a comprehensive range of cutting-edge technologies that stimulate cellular energy detoxify the body, and restore optimal health. See ad, page 2.

Gift & Wellness Shop

GAIA’S GIFTS

Ellen Perkins 16 Broad St., Unit 1, Washington 908-223-1331 • GaiasGifts.net

Unique natural, rough and tumbled stones and crystals. Handmade treasures by local artisans. BioMat, massage, energy healing, singing bowls, color therapy glasses, oracle and tarot cards and sometimes channeled readings. Come for an energetic lift to mind, body and spirit. See ad, page 9

Hair Restoration

THE HAIR FOR LIFE CENTER, LLC

201-731-3530

TheHairForLifeCenter.com

For over 35 years The Hair For Life Center has been helping women who experience hair loss.In as little as 2 to 3 hours we restore your hair to its natural state safely without using glues or extensions. For more information, visit at TheHairForLifeCenter.com. See ad, page 39.

Healing Ways

HEALING PATHWAYS COUNSELING AND SUPERVISION CENTER

233 Mt Airy Rd, Suite 100, Basking Ridge 908-434-6008

admin@healing-pathways.org

Healing-Pathways.org

License Number: 37PC00622100

Healing Pathways is a private therapy practice offering trauma-informed, client centered counseling services to adults (18+). Our therapists hold specialties in EMDR, prolonged exposure therapy, art therapy, and other modalities all aimed at helping our valued clients achieve relief and healing. See ad, page 10.

Holistic Dentistry

HOLISTIC DENTAL CENTER NJ 91 Millburn Avenue, Millburn 908-206-7848

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, page 40 .

Health & Wellness

ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES WORK, LLC

Howard G. Mertine C.Ht, RM, NLP 908-283-0117 • HGMertine@gmail.com

Alleviations of allergies, phobias, trauma, addictions, anxieties, PTSD & various other afflictions. Past life regressions, building confidence and self-esteem, Certified Hypnotherapist, Certified NLP instructor and practitioner, Certified Reiki Master & practitioner, card reading and pendulum divination, motivational speaker and coach, holistic healer. See ad, page 11.

Holistic Chiropractors

SAMSARA CHIROPRACTIC WELLNESS CENTER

Dr Jennifer Redmond

7 E. High St, Somerville 908-300-8800 • DoctorRedmond.com

The body is designed to heal itself but structural issues, toxins, lack of nutrients or an emotional component can affect overall health. We offer Whole-istic healing techniques including Neuroemotional Technique, Active Release techniques, Activator, Flexion Distraction and more! See ad, page 23.

Hypnosis/ Hypnotherapy

HYPNOSIS COUNSELING CENTER

Barry Wolfson

Offices in Flemington, Princeton, Livingston NJ, and King of Prussia, PA 908-303-7767

HypnosisCounselingCenter.com

Over 35 years of experience. We offer traditional counseling methods and the art of hypnotherapy in private and group settings, in person or virtual, for weight loss, stress, smoking, confidence building, phobias, insomnia, test taking, sports improvement, public speaking, and more. See ad, page 9.

Hypnosis/Reiki

ENERGY HEALTH & WELLNESS LLC

Michele Dellavalle, CH, CHTP, ART 65 Old Rt 22, Suite 10, Clinton Online Sessions available #908-403-2045

EnergyHealth4Wellness@gmail.com

ReikiEHW.com

Master Clinical Hypnotist Certified in 5 Path ® Hypnosis, 7th Path ® Self Hypnosis, Reiki, Healing Touch & Guided Meditations. We identify & address the root cause allowing our clients to move forward and heal. Offering classes in 7th Path ® Self Hypnosis and Reiki Level 1 & 2. When all else fails, Hypnosis Works! Call for Free Consultation.

Integrative Healing Health Coach

NEXT LEVEL HEALTH AND HEALING

Desiree Bohn

Cherry Hill, NJ 609-541-1087 nextlevelhh@outlook.com

Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach specializing in healing your body with food & vitamins for all areas of life including food education, skin conditions (acne, shingles, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, vitiligo), sleep hygiene, high cholesterol, constipation, fatigue, bi-polar, ADHD, aches/pains, eating for cancer prevention/ treatment, anxiety, depression, lyme disease, Epstein Barr virus, heavy metal poisoning.

Integrative Psychotherapy

BOBBIE LYNN EDWARDS

LPC, NCC,M.ED

Licensed Psychotherapist

The Parry House, 12 Center St., Ste. #9 Clinton, NJ 908-892-8978 • HunterdonTherapist.com

Life Coaching

BRIAN SZEPKOUSKI, M.A., CTAA

Certified Life and Executive Coach Bernardsville, NJ 908-256-2406 • brian@szepko-intl.com

Are you at a crossroad or seeking a new path? Work with me to energize your journey. I’ll help you get started, keep you motivated, and support you along the way. Remember, the world needs you ~ and the special gifts only you can offer. I have personally coached hundreds of individuals across multiple industries who are living their BEST LIFE and who are financially rewarded in return! (Sessions in person or virtually.)

Meditation/Spiritual

CENTER FOR HEALING AND EMPOWERMENT

Phyllis Livera Summerville, NJ 732-882-9676

CenterForHealingAndEmpowerment.com

Are you seeking deeper meaning in your life? Are you stressed and ready for a change? Tired of being in both physical or emotional pain? We offer spiritual development, meditation and mini-me yoga classes, which have been helping people live more productive, happier lives.

Mystical Shoppe

A YEAR AND A DAY MYSTICAL SHOPPE

413 Bond Street, Asbury Park, NJ 07712

848-217-2371

ayearandadaymysticalshoppe@yahoo.com

AYearAndADayMysticalShoppe.com

Taking care of yourselves doesn’t mean me first, it means me too.

——L .R . Knost

Licensed psychotherapist for 35 years. Practicing integrating  psychotherapy focusing on a broad  spectrum of spiritual philosophies and practices to assist in your healing. Clinically trained to provide guidance and direction to individuals,  couples and families.  Goals set within   a mutual  learning environment is the process. Meditation workshops for small and large groups are available. Call for free consultation and further information.

Metaphysical retail store offering crystals, gemstones, incense, essential oils, books, Tarot and Oracle cards, specialty candles, smudge supplies and more! Psychics, Shamans, Ministers and Reiki/Energy/ Crystal healers. Aura photos with 3D imaging, meditations and in-store classes and workshops, and more.

Natural Awakenings is proudly distributed at:

Bound Brook (Bridgewater)

319 Chimney Rock Rd.

Clark 1255 Raritan Rd. Unit 150

Madison (Rose City) 222 Main St.

Metuchen 645 Middlesex Ave.

Millburn-Union

2245 Springfield Ave. Vauxhall

Montclair

701 Bloomfield Ave.

Morristown

110 Washington St.

Newark

633 Broad St.

Parsippany 60 Waterview Blvd

Princeton

3495 US Rt 1 S

Ridgewood 44 Godwin Ave.

West Orange

235 Prospect Ave.

Naturopathic Medicine

NEW JERSEY NATURAL MEDICINE

Dr. Jason Frigerio ND, LAC 2424 Lamington Road, Bedminster 973-267-2650 • NJNaturalMedicine.com

Since 2004, NJNM has treated patients with naturopathic, Chinese, ayurvedic and biological medicine. Our guiding principa: to observe and treat the whole person, not just symptoms to identify and treat the root cause of illness, help restore balance and promote optimal health. See ad, page 21.

Platonic Touch Practitioner / Reiki

IN YOUR ARMS HOLISTIC

Karen Schweiger

908-768-1800

inyourarms@zoho.com CuddleInYourArms.com Cuddlist.com/Karen

In Your Arms offers platonic touch therapy, as well as Reiki, to help individuals find relief from everyday stress, anxiety and even the loneliness induced by our virtual world in a safe, warm and confidential environment.

Qi Gong

QI GONG FOR HEALING

Patty Pagano

908-392-1313

pattyqigongforhealing@gmail.com QiGongForHealing.com

Experience Qi through the gentle movements of Tai Chi & Qi Gong with instructor Patty Pagano. Live classes in Martinsville and Chester. Private appointments and Zoom classes also. See ad, page 15.

Reiki & Hypnosis

ALICE RICH REIKI CENTER

Alice Rich, Certified Master Teacher

Usui Reiki Ryoho, Karuna Reiki®, Crystal Healing, Certified Hypnotist 732-501-7628

alice@AliceRichReikiCenter.com

AliceRichReikiCenter.com

Reiki, Crystal Healing and Integrated Energy Therapy® or Hypnosis sessions can help reduce pain physically, mentally and emotionally, promote a healthy lifestyle, achieve personal and professional goals, create balance and harmony and advance your spiritual journey. Private sessions and classes. Certification classes on Reiki, Crystal Healing and IET.

Spiritual TeachingHealing,

JANET

STRAIGHTARROW

Shaman, Healer, Sage, Reiki Master Teacher, Astrologist 973-647-2500

Janet@BeTheMedicine.com

BeTheMedicine.com

Profound Healing, Clearing, Reclaim yourself, Enjoy life. 41 years of experience. Shamanic and Intuitive Energy Sessions. Soul Retrievals. Past Life, Ancestral, Current life healing. Business, Home, and Land clearings. Meditation, Shamanic, and Reiki Healers Training. and more. See ad, page 19.

Sound Healing/Reiki

DEEP ROOTS RISING, LLC

Ruchi Jain

Reiki/Sound Healing/Astrology/Classes

Somerville, NJ 732-718-4430 / call/text

DeepRootsRising.com

Change your frequency— change your life. Gong Sound Baths for individuals or groups. Reiki Healing— find your inner healer. Reiki Classes. Leave lighter and able to deal with life better, than when you came in. Intuitive readings. Astrology Readings. Recalibrate to your own naturally high vibration.

“Our lives improve only when we take chances - and the first and most difficult risk we can take is to be honest with ourselves.”

- Walter Anderson

Choosing a new dentist can be a real challenge. How do you know who is really a holistic dentist? Here are several things to look out for when choosing...

• They DON’T use mercury containing fillings because mercury is one of the most toxic substances known to man.

• They DON’T remove mercury fillings without protection because inhaled mercury vapors can be easily absorbed by the body.

• They DON’T recommend Root Canals because they harbor bacteria and toxins.

• They DON’T use conventional standards for their cleanings because tap water and chemicals are full of toxic substances.

• They DON’T use fluoride because it has been shown to be a neurotoxin.

• They DON’T use metal in their restorations because many people have metal allergies and sensitivities.

• They DON’T treat sensitive patients without biocompatibility testing because allergic reactions and system reactions can occur which burden the body.

Dr. Glenn Gero, Naturopathic Physician:

“I was seeing a dentist for over 30 years, and when I was invited to try the Holistic Dental Center for the first time, I was so impressed with the office....The best dental experience I have ever had in my life.”

Lisa Mack, Certified Thermographic Technician:

“What I see in my Thermography, I see inflammation in the mouth, how important it is, you see the bacteria draining down into the lymphatic system and from there I always refer patients to the Holistic Dental Center. Why? Because they can test that bacteria to see exactly what it is so from there he can help you. I am also a patient of the Holistic Dental Center and I absolutely love coming here. The one thing that I love about the center is that when you walk in, it’s like you’re family. They are very caring and very loving and when you walk out of here you feel like you’ve been well taken care of....”

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