Natural Awakenings North Central New Jersey / July 2023

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12 PROTECTING PETS FROM LYME DISEASE Prevention

18 TOO MUCH HISTAMINE

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letter from the editor

Surprised by Life

Don’t you love it when little surprises happen? A few years ago, I was on my front porch tending hanging plants. I had lowered a trailing petunia to pluck withered blossoms and, as I moved the greenery about, something caught my eye. To my surprise, it was a small bird’s nest, and in its bed were three tiny, slightly speckled eggs. I was delighted. I’d seen nests from time to time in the upper reaches of trees, but I’d never had the opportunity to view one so close. It was like peering into a different world—a very tiny one that only needed a quiet section of a potted plant to feel secure enough to renew the cycle of life. Like an echo of truth, the image has reverberated in my mind.

Each time something like this happens I am reminded that surprise is fundamental to awareness. We worry about what we think might happen, but we learn by what surprises us. Sometimes it’s a “good” surprise, sometimes a “bad” one but regardless of how we judge it, that which surprises us carves a nest within our consciousness, sparking new thoughts and connections. In essence, the force behind surprise is creative—its nature is to renew the cycle of life within our own awareness by shaking up the status quo in our minds.

As you walk this journey of exploration, may you find surprise in every path.

Enjoy the Day!

Kathy Tarbell Managing Editor

Publisher Joe Dunne

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We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. The content herein has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and is not meant to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any condition. Statements are the opinion of the author/speaker. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

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The moments of happiness we enjoy take us by surprise. It is not that we seize them, but that they seize us.

~Ashley Montagu

Women’s Vision Quest 2023 in the Catskills

For a gift that is magical, deep and transformative, join with like-minded women in the Catskills on July 21-23 for a retreat that will awaken new levels of inner wisdom and truth, and release anything in the way. Participants will enjoy a gentle, deep journey in nature and experience Shamanic tools and practices to support reconnecting to all of nature and one’s life under the guidance of Shaman Janet StraightArrow.

“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,” shares StraightArrow.

This is a natural process without drugs held on a beautiful space on sacred ground with privacy and safety. For the fullness of experience, attendance is limited to 8 participants. Attendees may camp or stay inside a spacious lodge.

Fee: $800; payment plan available. Location: Art Farm, 31 Fawn Rd., North Road, Accord. For information call 973-647-2500 or email Janet@BeTheMedicine.com to set up a time to speak and discover if this is the retreat that will meet your needs, and visit BeTheMedicine. com. See ad, page 19.

Energy Enhancement System™ in Whitehouse Station

FREQUENCY ADVANCED Energy

To quote Nikola Tesla “If you want to find the secrets of the universe, think in terms of energy, frequency and vibration.” Trish and Mike Mahoney, founders of Advanced Frequency Energy Spa, understand this well. They have opened a unique healing facility that features frequency modalities that remove the roadblocks (free radicals and toxins) that keep cells from functioning optimally. These energy therapies allow oxygen to saturate cells and helps them to max out energy output in order to restore order and achieve optimal health.

To welcome new clients, they are offering an introductory special for their Energy Enhancement (EE) System™ Frequency Therapy—unlimited use for $175/month with a 3-month commitment. In addition, they are hosting Yoga with Roberta on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m., and Qi Gong with JoeyG on Fridays at 6:30 p.m., in the Scalar Energy Field. Location: 431 Rte 22 E (Bishop’s Plaza), Whitehouse Station. For more information call 888-460-4050 and visit AdvancedFrequencyEnergySpa.com. See ad, page 7.

RegeneSpine Opens New Office in Parsippany

RegeneSpine is a pain management and interventional orthobiologic practice that serves patients from around the world. In June, the practice announced the inauguration of an additional location in Parsippany, NJ. The new facility will enable the practice to extend its services to a wider area. Dr. Stephen Roman, founder, also sees patients at his Manhattan office in New York City.

Locations: 299 Cherry Hill Rd., Ste. 105, Parsippany, NJ and 1230 Whitehorse Mercerville Rd., Ste. C, Mercerville, NJ. For more information, call 1-888-352-3038 or visit RegeneSpine.com/contact-us/. See ad, page 15.

Stephen Roman, M.D.

Pilot Program Reveals Benefits of Four-Day Work Week

The nonprofit 4 Day Week Global conducted a sixmonth pilot of more than 2,900 workers from 61 companies in the United Kingdom from June to December 2022 in which the work week was reduced from a standard 40 hours to 32 hours for the same pay and benefits. At the end of the six-month trial, 39 percent of employees reported less stress and 71 percent expressed lower levels of burnout. Anxiety, fatigue and sleep issues also decreased, while mental and physical health improved. Sixty percent found a greater ability to balance work with home-based responsibilities, and 62 percent found it easier to balance work with social life. Employees were also more satisfied with their finances, relationships and time management.

Company revenue stayed broadly the same over the trial period, rising by 1.4 percent on average. Companies also saw improvements in hiring, absenteeism and resignations, with staff turnover dropping by 57 percent over the trial period. Additionally, 63 percent of businesses offering a four-day week found it easier to attract and retain new talent.

Effects of Cannabis Use Before and After Surgery

artit/AdobeStock.com

In January 2023, the American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine published guidelines recommending that all patients undergoing anesthesia be screened and questioned about cannabis use, including how much and how often they use, how they take it and when they last used it.

One of the largest studies on the effects of cannabis use on sedation, published in the Journal of Osteopathic Medicine, looked at 250 patients undergoing an endoscopy while under anesthesia. Those that reported regular cannabis use required significantly higher doses of anesthesia than nonusers. Another study, published in the journal PLOS ONE, found that daily cannabis users required a higher dose of sedatives prior to an endoscopy than weekly or monthly users.

Seniors Want Fewer Prescriptions

be willing to stop taking one or more drugs if their healthcare provider said it was possible, and 26 percent had already stopped taking at least one drug they had been taking for more than a year. When asked which meds they would be most interested in stopping, 43 percent named their heart disease pills for high blood pressure or high cholesterol, 13 percent mentioned diabetes medicines and 10 percent included pain management prescriptions.

In a new National Poll on Healthy Aging by the University of Michigan involving adults aged 50 to 80, the vast majority of respondents expressed an interest in cutting back on prescription medications. Eighty percent would

These results reflect a growing trend dubbed “deprescribing”. According to Deprescribing.org, a researcher-led online resource, it is the planned process of reducing or stopping medications that may no longer be of benefit or could be causing harm. The goal is to reduce medication burden or harm while improving quality of life. Seniors interested in cutting down on the drugs they are taking should consult their healthcare provider to ensure it is safe and helpful to do so.

Flamingo ImagesAdobeStock.com

Finding Light After Years of Darkness Spravato

by K. P. Tarbell

The course of healing is not necessarily a straight-line function. David Bogulavsky, M.D., knows this well. As an experienced and dedicated family physician and medical acupuncturist, his commitment to finding healing therapies for his patients has at times led him to search outside the lines for best options for care. His most recent therapeutic addition, Spravato®, has shown itself to be a godsend for his patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD).

Dr. B, as he is known by his patients, shares, “Treatment-resistant depression is diagnosed when at least two or more medications have failed to control the symptoms of depression. A number of my patients had failed to respond to medications, therapy, TMS, and I was looking for an FDA approved, scientifically proven alternative that would finally bring about some relief. That is how I came across Spravato. There’s been a lot of research and publicity lately around the clinical use

of psychedelics in treatment therapy and Spravato is the only medicine of that class that is approved by the FDA for clinical treatment of depression.” On the basis of strong clinical research Spravato is now covered by most health insurances including Medicare.

For many of Dr. B’s patients, the response to this therapy has been fairly robust. “I have seen Spravato be helpful for about 80%-90% of our patients,” states Dr. B. “What is important to appreciate is that

“Dr. B has an amazing way of communicating. I commute two hours to the center, and I go now once a week. I look forward to going to this place because it’s calming. The staff is amazing. They check in on you, you feel relaxed. All that I can tell you is, to be honest, that I feel I have my life back. And I feel myself. I’m a positive person. I’m just blessed. I thank God every single day to have found this treatment, to have found his medication. So, there is hope. That’s what I want people to know. There is hope and don’t be afraid to try anything new.”

– Glenis S.

“I have been a patient of Dr. B’s for a few years. They asked me if I’d like to try this new treatment, Spravato. It was several months before I decided to try it. Wow! The wellness room is so quiet and just a beautiful room. The first time I was nervous but the team talks you through it, letting you know what you might expect. Now I’m on maybe month three of treatment and I have to say that I feel almost myself. I just turned 53 and I haven’t felt good since I was 34. It’s now like watching my past trauma in a movie instead of reliving it. Whoever designed this treatment is incredible. It’s seriously a blessing.”

— Gayle G.

“I’ve had a lot of trauma in my life. I’d been in therapy for 20 years but nothing really allowed me to move on. A PA introduced me to Dr. B, and when I met him, I was very skeptical, and came in with an attitude. But Dr. B was just so kind that I went home I thinking this guy is for real. After checking with my psychiatrist, I decided to try the Spravato treatment. I went for the 10-week treatment. and I tell you it changed my life. Something just clicked. Not right away. I can’t even tell you like what session, it just happened. The only thing I can tell you is that I was able to now deal with things that I did not want to deal with before. I’m new person.”

– Joann B.

these are people who have not had success with multiple other interventions and so fall into the most hard to treat population. Their positive response to Spravato has offered them a lifeline, and for many of our patients, it has been life-changing and transformative.” Typically, antidepressants may take months to show improvement, however, with Spravato, results often begin to show in the first few weeks, sometimes even after the first few treatments. Research suggests that the treatment works by healing the section of brain called the association cortex, which is where new connections and different perspectives are made. Oftentimes, people with depression get stuck in a self-reinforcing mental loop of negative self-talk and expectations. This is especially true for those who have experienced trauma in their lives. Spravato can start breaking down that loop so the patients can look at their life stories from a different angle, and this helps them process the trauma and move past it. Patients who have a successful response also report “feeling themselves again” and express more positive emotions.

There are some patients for whom Spravato may not be an ideal option, such as those with severe uncontrolled hypertension. The most common side effects are sedation (feeling sleepy), hypertension (increased blood pressure), nausea (feeling queasy), and disassociation (feeling a disconnect from reality). These side effects are very rare and always pass before the patient completes their two-hour treatment

The medication is a self-administered nasal spray once or twice a week at a Certified Treatment Center while relaxing in a calm and Zenlike treatment area. Patients are required to stay for at least two hours following treatment and are never left alone. Dr. B’s incredible clinical team connects with every patient at each treatment to offer guidance, medical support, and medication adjustments if necessary. The patient is always safe and attended to. The administrative staff works tirelessly to get the insurance companies to cover this life-changing treatment for Dr. B’s patients.

With fewer than 20 centers for this type of treatment in New Jersey, it is not uncommon for patients to travel for this type of care. Spravato Treatment Centers of NJ is part of Premier MD—a core of family physicians that embrace complementary and alternative approaches to healing, from medical acupuncture to medical marijuana, and now Spravato/ esketamine. With centers in Bridgewater and Morristown, patients are welcomed from across New Jersey and neighboring states.

Locations: 757 Rte 202-206, Ste. 104, Bridgewater, and 25 Linsley Dr., Ste. 312, Morristown. For more information, call 908-4507002 or email PatientQuestions@SpravatoNJ.com, and visit SpravatoNJ.com. See ad, page 9.

Protecting Pets From Lyme Disease

PREVENTION AND SYMPTOM MANAGEMENT TIPS

by Paige Cerull

When the weather is nice and we crave outdoor adventures with our pets, we may not want to think about Lyme disease, but it’s a good idea to take precautions to avoid an infection. One bite from an infected tick could lead to troubling health concerns. Despite the risks, there is no reason to hide indoors, as there are numerous actions we can take to protect our animal companions from infection and to relieve their symptoms should they contract the ailment.

Disease Prevalence in the U.S.

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, Lyme disease is spread by bites from blacklegged deer ticks or western blacklegged ticks that carry the disease-causing bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. While cases have been reported in nearly every U.S. state, Lyme disease is most common in the Northeast, Upper Midwest and Northwest.

A 2018 study published in Environmetrics found that the prevalence of Lyme disease in dogs is getting worse in the Northeast and spreading into regions that weren’t previously considered to be high risk, including areas in North Dakota, Iowa, Illinois, Ohio, Michigan and Tennessee.

Symptoms in Cats, Dogs and Horses

Lyme disease affects animals differently. Veterinarian Erin O’Leary, founder of Heal House Call Veterinarian, explains that cats with Lyme disease are asymptomatic. “We don’t see any symptoms in cats, so we don’t tend to test or treat for Lyme in cats,” she explains.

Canine Lyme disease is a different story. Per O’Leary, dogs often exhibit lameness that may shift among the legs. Fever and swelling in the joints are common. Dogs can also experience a serious kidney complication called Lyme nephritis that causes them to feel very sick, drink lots of water and urinate more. Two studies performed by IDEXX, a developer

of diagnostic and software products for animals, revealed that dogs exposed to tickborne diseases, including Lyme disease, had a 43 percent increased risk of developing chronic kidney disease.

According to the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, horses with Lyme disease may experience weight loss, lameness that shifts among the legs, muscle tenderness, low-grade fever and swollen joints.

Preventing Tick Bites

Nicole Savageau, a veterinarian with The Vets, notes that pet owners can naturally reduce their pet’s risk of being bitten by a tick by keeping their yards in check. “Ticks prefer to live in areas with tall grass, weeds and leaf litter,” she says. “Keeping your yard tidy by mowing your lawn and removing any dead leaves or debris can help reduce the number of ticks in your yard.”

Pet owners may also use food-grade diatomaceous earth, a non-toxic powder, to help kill ticks in areas where pets like

to spend time. Several natural fly sprays, many of which help to repel ticks, are also available for horses.

Removing a Tick

It’s important to carefully inspect pets for tick bites after spending time outdoors. “If you can remove the tick within 24 to 48 hours of the bite, it won’t transmit Lyme disease,” O’Leary maintains. She recommends tools like the Tick Twister or a pair of tweezers to safely coax a tick from their pet. “If you can get down to where the head is inserted and squeeze that with tweezers, that’s the easiest thing to do,” she says.

Savageau suggests keeping pet hair trimmed short, which can make it easier to spot and remove ticks, and cleaning the bite site with soap and water or an antiseptic solution to prevent infection. It’s important to watch for signs of inflammation or infection, like redness, swelling or discharge. “If any of these symptoms appear, or if the pet develops a fever or lethargy, the owner should contact their veterinarian for advice,” she says.

Caring for an Infected Pet

According to O’Leary, the antibiotic doxycycline is the best available treatment for Lyme disease, and giving the pet a bit of turmeric to eat can relieve inflammation, though it is best to consult with a veterinarian regarding the most appropriate treatment options and dosages. To reduce a fever, soaking a towel in cool water and applying it around a pet’s paws and ears will help.

Savageau highlights the importance of feeding pets a balanced and nutritious diet that supports the immune system, as well as supplements and other natural remedies. “This may include adding probiotics and omega-3 fatty acids to their food to support gut health and reduce inflammation. Herbs like echinacea may help stimulate the immune system and support the body’s ability to fight infections,” she says, adding, “Always consult with a veterinarian before starting any natural or alternative treatment for pets, as some may be harmful or interfere with prescribed medications.”

Cerulli is a freelance writer in Western Massachusetts specializing in the health and care of pets.

Paige

New Environmental Justice Initiative

Solar Community Hubs

In April, Executive Order 12898 established the White House Office of Environmental Justice to address persistent environmental

injustices involving toxic pollution, underinvestment in infrastructure and services, and other harms due to a legacy of racial and economic discrimination. The new office is tasked with coordinating efforts among federal agencies to help implement innovative directives. It requires federal agencies to notify communities in the event of a release of toxic substances; directs agencies to facilitate meaningful public participation and just treatment in agency decision-making; directs agencies to identify and address information gaps related

environmental justice and make information on environmental and health concerns more publicly accessible; and implements a scorecard to evaluate federal agencies’ environmental justice efforts.

POWERFUL & EFFECTIVE

Nearly half of the world’s population has no access to the internet. Dell Technologies, in partnership with Computer Aid International, is addressing the gap for people that might benefit the most. They convert old shipping containers into customizable, solar-powered internet centers, called “solar community hubs”, that connect community members to the digital world. The hubs are well-lit, well-ventilated classrooms that use energy-efficient Dell technology and air-cooled servers. Each hub supports up to 40 people at a time and offers up to 20 users a wireless connection to learning materials.

The hubs provide digital skills to further education and open economic opportunities for the local community; allow micro and small enterprises to create jobs; and enable financial sustainability by offering services and products that go beyond education, such as telemedicine.

The first hub was placed in the Brazilian Amazon town of Boa Esperança in March 2022. Dell and the Foundation for Amazon Sustainability also installed equipment, including drones and environmental monitors, to track deforestation in the area. During the first week of March 2023, more than 200 alerts about tree loss were posted from Boa Esperança. Three hubs currently exist in Brazil and South Africa, and Dell will soon add two hubs in Egypt that are focused on career and life skills, as well as another in Australia, centered on preserving and protecting Aboriginal art and culture.

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That which you give to another will become your own sustenance; if you light a lamp for another, your own way will be lit. ~Nichiren

Repairing the Planet’s Lungs

The oceans, sometimes called the lungs of the Earth, have absorbed 30 percent of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions since the Industrial Revolution and captured 90 percent of the related excess heat. Seawater stores about 150 times more CO2 than air. Unfortunately, absorbing all that greenhouse gas has damaged sea life.

Engineers from the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) have developed a process to cleanse the seawater of CO2 so it can store greater amounts of greenhouse gases. The process sends an electric charge into seawater flowing through tanks on a barge. The charge sets off chemical reactions to trap the greenhouse gas into a solid mineral, which is then deposited on the ocean floor, completing the cleansing process.

The engineers expect to design larger facilities based on the data obtained from their test sites in Los Angeles and Singapore and have commercial sites removing millions of tons of CO2 per year by 2025. The UCLA scientists estimate that 1,800 facilities would be needed to capture 10 billion tons of atmospheric CO2 annually beginning in 2050, thereby limiting the global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Too Much Histamine

NATURAL SOLUTIONS TO AN EXCESSIVE ALLERGIC RESPONSE

by Carrie Jackson

Histamine is an organic chemical produced by the body as a protection from allergens. It is also found in some of the foods we consume. While certain levels of this compound are considered normal and healthy, an overabundance can cause troublesome symptoms—from runny noses and hives to intestinal discomfort and brain fog. Histamine intolerance, as this condition is called, is often caused by food triggers or the body’s inability to break down the excess histamine. Over-the-counter antihistamines promise short-term symptom relief but may have unappealing side effects. Long-term, drug-free resolution is possible with a little sleuthing and holistic lifestyle adaptations.

A WIDE ARRAY OF SYMPTOMS

“Histamine intolerance can affect every area of the body, including the brain. The inflammation created by excess histamine often leads to brain fog and other neurological symptoms,” says Michael Ruscio, a naturopathic practitioner, doctor of chiropractic, clinical

researcher and author of Healthy Gut, Healthy You.

Symptoms of histamine intolerance often start in the intestinal tract with diarrhea and bloating and contribute to leaky gut. “If the sensitive gut lining is damaged, histamine can permeate to other areas of the body and lead to redness, swelling and itchiness, as well as respiratory issues, joint pain and anxiety. These seemingly unrelated symptoms can all have the same underlying cause, and patients, as well as many doctors, are not aware of these connections,” says Arti Chandra, a Seattle-based family practice physician who is certified in functional medicine and serves as faculty at the Institute for Functional Medicine.

KNOWING THE TRIGGERS

“Mast cells, a type of white blood cell, are responsible for releasing histamine and other chemicals that cause inflammation. A histamine intolerance or exposure to high-histamine foods can lead to mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), where they release

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excess amounts into the body. Typically, enzymes will break down the histamine so that it doesn’t build up, but if the body doesn’t have the proper level of enzymes to break it down or if too much histamine is being released, then persistent symptoms can occur,” Chandra asserts.

Symptom management begins by healing the digestive system. “A healthy gut biome supports the body in producing one of the enzymes needed to break down histamine and can help lower inflammation,” she explains. “Dysbiosis, which is when the gut flora is out of balance, is often caused by the Standard American Diet, also known as SAD. Processed foods, fillers, chemicals, additives and other unnatural substances can all compromise the gut flora and gut function. Dysbiosis often leads to low levels of DAO [diamine oxidase], an enzyme in the gut that helps break down histamine. Some people can have a genetic basis for this—a mutation—that can also lead to excess histamine from impaired breakdown.”

SOLUTIONS FOR HISTAMINE OVERLOAD

Per Ruscio, “A simple, balanced, whole foods diet like the Paleo diet is a great starting point to calm inflammation and heal your gut. This means aiming for a variety of vegetables, fresh fish, eggs, meat, nuts and seeds, and fruits in moderation. If symptoms continue, try a low-histamine diet.”

histamine reactions. “The body produces histamine to ward off substances like pollen, infections, chemicals and mold. Many people get what they think are normal allergies in the spring, with symptoms like runny noses, watery eyes and a scratchy throat. However, if these symptoms occur year-round, it could be a sign of a histamine intolerance or MCAS. Mold contains mycotoxins that are known to activate mast cells and lead to a histamine release. If someone is living in a building with mold and the exposure is continuous, it can lead to chronic inflammation and histamine issues. Proper air filters can help, but they ultimately may need to eliminate the mold or move out of the environment,” says Chandra.

While over-the-counter antihistamine medications may help, they can have a sedating effect and other side effects, including cognitive issues. Natural and holistic treatments work just as well and are often better tolerated by the body, Chandra says. “Quercetin, found in apple skin and onions, can stabilize mast cells and make them less leaky, as can luteolin, both of which are available in supplement form and in Himalayan Tartary buckwheat. Vitamin C is a natural antihistamine, and omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil or supplements have anti-inflammatory properties. Stinging nettles, another stabilizer, can be used as a tea or in supplement form. Spices such as curcumin are natural anti-inflammatories and a nourishing addition to any diet,” she advises.

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Chandra suggests avoiding processed and fast foods, gluten, dairy, sugar and artificial sweeteners. Foods that are naturally high in histamine, including aged cheese, fermented foods, cured meat, alcohol, caffeine and tomatoes, can exacerbate symptoms. She recommends eliminating triggers for three weeks and slowly reintroducing them one at a time to see which are still problematic. “As the gut biome becomes stronger, the body may naturally be able to tolerate high histamine foods better; eating a diet rich in prebiotic foods and sometimes taking an appropriate probiotic supplement can help with this,” she says.

Environmental factors can also trigger

Stress management can help reduce histamine reactions, too. “Stress can trigger mast cells, causing a release of histamine and other inflammatory chemicals, as well as causing dysbiosis and leaky gut,” Chandra says. “Breathwork and meditation, as well as restful sleep, can help reduce histamine intolerance symptoms, support the gut and contribute to an overall level of internal balance.”

Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine. Connect at CarrieJacksonWrites.com.

Carrie

THE MICROBIOME CONNECTION

HOW SOIL AND HUMAN HEALTH ARE RELATED

by Kelcie Ottoes

The human gut microbiome, which is critical to fighting off disease, and soil microbiome, which enables plant growth, are vitally important to maintaining all life on our planet. These two communities of microorganisms are indirectly connected in important ways, and researchers are trying to find out more about their interplay.

Human Microbiome

The human gut microbiome consists of trillions of microorganisms of different species. These microbes help to digest food, synthesize vitamins and other important compounds, regulate our

immune system and even influence behavior and mood.

The gut microbiome includes both helpful and potentially harmful microbiota that coexist peacefully in a healthy person. But certain diets, or the use of antibiotics or other bacteria-destroying medications, can upset the balance, a state known as dysbiosis, which can impair the microbiome’s functions, leaving the body susceptible to disease.

Soil Microbiome

The soil microbiome has many parallels to the human gut scenario. It consists of bacteria, fungi, archaea and viruses—microorganisms

Photo by Rodale Institute

that play an important role in maintaining the health of the soil. They do this by breaking down organic matter, cycling nutrients and protecting crops against harmful pathogens.

Regenerative organic farming practices that promote biodiversity and disdain the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers develop robust soil that is rich in nutrients and beneficial microbes. In such settings, farmers don’t need to use chemicals, because the microbiome creates disease-resistant soil to fight off threats.

The Nutrition Link

While a direct link between the soil microbiome and the gut microbiome has yet to be proven, soil certainly impacts our health through our diet. A diverse and active soil microbiome is responsible for supporting plant growth. Plants then provide us with the nutrients that our gut microbiome needs to thrive, including calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, E, K and the B complex.

Dan Kittredge, founder of The Bionutrient Institute, explains, “The sophistication of the soil microbiome is connected to the nutritional value of the food that’s produced. The healthier the [soil] microbiome, the healthier the food.” The use of fertilizers and pesticides does not directly produce less nutritious food, but rather their impact on the health of the soil microbiome can impact the crops’ nutritional value.

There is a hypothesis that food has become less nutritious since the mid-1900s. In a 2004 study, University of Texas scientists examined the nutritional value of 43 garden crops from 1950 to 1999 and found that while all 43 foods showed a statistically reliable decline in nutrition, it was likely due to cultivating plants with desired traits, such as larger sizes, faster growing rates and increased pest resistance. It wasn’t the soil that was the problem, but that growers had not prioritized breeding crops for higher nutritional value.

According to Jack Gilbert, a pediatrics professor at the University of California San Diego and co-founder of the Earth Microbiome Project and the American Gut Project, “There is an indirect relationship between a healthy soil microbiome and healthy gut microbiome. While we need healthy soils to grow plants, a healthy soil microbiome does not equal a healthy gut microbiome.”

He explains, “The link is really about diet in the gut microbiome. Precision nutrition is the idea that how we all respond to food is unique, and that we can predict those responses if we understand what kinds of bacteria are in the gut. This is because the gut microbiome varies between people, and those same gut microbes can mediate how food influences our physiology. Eating a healthy diet can have a profound impact on reducing the risk of developing chronic diseases.”

The nutritional value of food is more complicated than the quality of the soil in which the crops grow. It is also impacted by the processing of the food. As Kittredge notes, when the bran in wheat is removed—a common process that turns flour white— wheat loses much of its nutritional value. Unprocessed foods allow us to access more of the nutrients within them.

Digging in the Soil

There is another way that soil microbes can benefit human health:

The Promise of Regenerative Organic Agriculture

Led by the Regenerative Organic Alliance, which includes organizations and brands like Rodale Institute, Dr. Bronner’s and Patagonia, the Regenerative Organic Certified farms and products meet the highest standards in the world for soil health, animal welfare, and farmworker fairness. The idea is to create farm systems that work in harmony with nature to improve quality of life for every creature involved. The Regenerative Organic Certified framework is designed to go above and beyond the USDA Certified Organic seal. To date, 134 farms and more than 47,000 smallholder farmers totaling almost 880,000 acres are Regenerative Organic Certified. Nearly 100 brands offer Regenerative Organic Certified products on the market. Under Regenerative Organic Certified standards, soil health is promoted by including a variety of rotating crops, cover crops, no tillage, no synthetic inputs, no genetically modified seeds and rotationally grazed animals. Farms that follow these protocols become biodiverse ecosystems with organically rich soil that absorbs water, does not erode over time and produces safe, nutritious food. Learn more at RegenOrganic.org.

Photo by Rodale Institute

spending time in nature. Exposure to the soil microbiome has been shown to stimulate the immune system. When outside, we are exposed to a diverse array of microorganisms that increase disease resistance and provide neurological benefits.

Gilbert has largely built a career on the benefits of getting his hands dirty. He is currently conducting a study to find out how giving children two hours of outdoor learning a day can impact their metabolic health and help them avoid diseases. According to Kittredge, playing in the dirt isn’t just for kids. “It is beneficial to expose ourselves to soil microbes,” he says. “Everyone should nature bathe.”

“Exposure to soil microbes, like Mycobacterium vaccae, can positively impact our physical and mental health,” says Kathleen DiChiara, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition practitioner and digestive wellness educator. “We are losing diversity and not getting the exposure we used to.” She points out that the gut microbiomes of urban citizens in the U.S. have lower bacterial diversity than those in rural societies, including hunter-gatherers from Tanzania and the Amazon.

While diet, lifestyle and genetics play a role in the host-specific differences, the microbiome composition in adults is also based on exposure to microbes in the environment. According to DiChiara, there is no perfect profile for the gut microbiome, and our gut microbial communities ebb and flow. “If a specific strain of bacteria suddenly disappears, perhaps due to an illness, another species can take on its task,” she explains. “Like nature, it’s about working together on our behalf.”

Diversity, richness and symbiotic behavior of the gut microbes are central to our well-being. DiChiara notes that many variables can negatively impact the gut microbiome. Some result from the choices we make voluntarily, such as smoking, drinking too much alcohol, eating ultra-processed foods, being chronically stressed and leading a sedentary lifestyle. Other factors are beyond our con-

trol, such as neurological injuries, illnesses and hormonal shifts due to puberty or menopause.

Human Impact on Soil Health

The soil microbiome and the gut microbiome both need our support to maintain proper health. Although our gut microbiome may not be directly impacted by the health of soil microbes, it can be impacted by the pesticides, herbicides and fungicides in our food.

Degradation of the soil microbiome occurs in many ways. Tillage, bare soil, dry soil, fertilizer, chemical sprays and fungicides all harm the soil microbiome. These non-regenerative agricultural practices can have negative impacts on the health of individuals that eat the plants and on the health of the broader ecosystems.

Chemicals like glyphosate can damage the gut microbiome by creating oxidative stress, which agitates the microbiome and impedes its ability to function properly. Pesticides can also have a detrimental impact on the gut microbiome. Each year the United States uses 1 billion pounds of pesticides that may be damaging our bodies when we eat our veggies. “What we are not doing is prioritizing protecting the microbiome—for us and the soil. It’s time we recognize the interconnections between climate, soil and the gut,” DiChiara says.

There are multiple ways we can cultivate a closer, healthier relationship between our soil and our gut, such as supporting sustainable agriculture, avoiding processed foods, frequenting farmers markets for organic produce or spending time in nature. Better yet, Kittredge suggests planting a pesticide-free garden at home and eating carrots straight from the soil.

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

September 9-10 Ethos Farm,177 West Mill Rd., Long Valley, NJ

As Greta Thunberg says, “The only thing we need more than hope is action.” Come to Farm Days Festival 2023 to learn more about how each of us can be part of the solution.

Expert speakers from across the country will be presenting on the ethics of eating and how whole plant-based food is medicine including Peter Singer, Rich Roll, Dr. Dean Sherzai, Dr. Ayesha Sherzai, Dr. Columbus Batiste, Dr. Meagan Grega, Sara Farley, Brittany Jaroudi, Bob Quinn and EFP Founder Dr. Ronald Weiss.

Plus family activities, yoga, tours of the regenerative and organic farm, movement and mindfulness activities, and whole food plant based (sugar-, oil-, salt-free) food for sale courtesy of The Kellyn Foundation.

For tickets and information, visit EthosFarmProject.org/FarmDays.

Learn from Inspiring Speakers: Peter Singer, Rich Roll, Dr. Ron Weiss, Dr. Dean Sherzai, Dr. Ayesha Sherzai, Dr. Columbus Batiste, Dr. Meagan Grega, Sara Farley, Bob Quinn, and Brittany Jaroudi

Use

Fighting Climate Change in the Garden

REGENERATIVE TECHNIQUES FOR A HEALTHY ECOSYSTEM

by Julie Peterson

Reversing global warming may feel like a challenge that is out of reach, but anyone can make a difference by planting an ecologically supportive garden. Regenerative techniques employed in the backyard, a community garden or even an apartment patio can significantly improve local ecosystems. And because living systems are interconnected, a healthier ecosystem boosts the well-being of all life forms, as well as the environment.

“Growing a garden is one of the most powerful things we can do as individuals to enact positive change and make a difference,” says Emily Murphy, the California author of Grow Now: How We Can Save Our Health, Communities, and Planet—One Garden at a Time. “If you’re looking for practical solutions to the climate crisis and the resulting loss of biodiversity, the answer is right out your door and in the earth beneath your feet. It’s possible to sequester enough carbon to offset your carbon footprint while supporting wildlife.”

According to Jessica Walliser, the Pennsylvania author of Plant Partners: Science-Based Companion Planting Strategies for the Vegetable Garden and co-founder of Savvy Gardening.com, “Regenerative practices are simple, proactive steps that millions of gardeners should be adopting. They not only simplify your gardening practices and reduce time and budget in the long term, they are also the right thing to do in this modern age of human disturbance.”

LAYER SOIL

A key principle of regenerative gardening is to add layers to the soil instead of digging downward or tilling. “Layering up increases the water-holding capacity of the soil and the ability of the soil to sequester carbon,” Murphy explains.

“Addition of organic matter, such as compost, leaf mold or wellaged manure, helps build good soil structure and feeds beneficial soil microbes,” says Walliser, who recommends adding one to two inches per year to gardens.

Making compost onsite is valuable, but not always possible. In some cities, free compost is available through community

compost hubs where residents drop off bins of yard and food waste. “Purchasing commercially produced compost may be a worthwhile investment, particularly when growers are just getting started and soil quality is poor,” suggests Bryan O’Hara, the Connecticut author of No-Till Intensive Vegetable Culture: Pesticide-Free Methods for Restoring Soil and Growing Nutrient-Rich, High-Yielding Crops.

PLANT PERENNIALS

Perennials come back every year and can provide food for people and wildlife. Many varieties of fruiting shrubs, trees, vegetables and nuts can form the backbone of a garden with annual plants interspersed throughout. Adding beauty to the mix, perennial flowers—some of which are edible—are essential food for bees, butterflies and birds.

“Choose plants with different flower shapes, sizes and colors, as well as plants with a diversity of bloom times,” Walliser advises. “Opt for plants native to your region, as they have co-evolved with native insects and may provide better resources for them.”

EMBRACE BIODIVERSITY

“When you’re fostering biodiversity, you’re supporting the mutualism that naturally exists in wildlife. You’re increasing and improving ecological relationships,” says Murphy. Instead of planting monoculture rows in a vegetable garden, mix up the plants the way Mother Nature does, Walliser recommends. And if abandoning tidy rows of the same type of plant seems too unruly, interplant the rows: a few beans, a tomato, flowers, then more beans and peppers, for example.

Another suggestion is to plant a variety of salad greens, carrots and radishes in a raised bed and interplant edible nasturtiums, chives and violets. “Interplanting makes it harder for pests to find their favorite host plant. It also makes it harder for diseases to spread from one plant to the next,” Walliser explains.

AVOID CHEMICALS

Skip the pesticides, herbicides and synthetic fertilizers. “Even organic pesticides can be harmful to pollinators and pest-eating beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings and others,” says Walliser. A chemical-free, biodiverse garden is a safe place for beneficial bugs. Trust that the good bugs will find the bad bugs and there will be balance.

A sun-kissed organic tomato from the garden will forever ruin us for grocery store produce. And when we sink our hands in healthy soil to retrieve a beet or plant seeds, we may feel a wave of positive energy because soil microbes have been found to work like natural antidepressants, making us happier and healthier.

“When we begin to understand the inner workings of our greater ecosystem through the ecosystems closest to home, such as our gardens and communities, we come to see that we each have the power to grow positive change beginning at home,” says Murphy.

Julie Peterson writes on health, wellness and environmental topics. Reach out at JuliePeterson2222@gmail.com.

Anne Biklé

ON THE ADVANTAGES OF REGENERATIVE FARMING

by Linda Sechrist

Anne Biklé and David R. Montgomery, a husband and wife team, collaborated to write What Your Food Ate: How to Heal Our Land and Reclaim Our Health. A biologist, environmental planner and gardener extraordinaire, Biklé earned degrees in biology and natural history from the University of California (UC) Santa Cruz and a master’s degree in landscape architecture from UC Berkeley. She uses her endless fascination with the natural world to explore the tangled relationships between people and their environments. She also helped Montgomery, a professor of Earth and space

sciences at the University of Washington, research and write The Hidden Half of Nature: The Microbial Roots of Life and Health, as well as Growing a Revolution: Bringing Our Soil Back to Life. Exploring the connection between soil health and human health, the duo shows us how the roots of our good health begin on farms.

Why did you write this book?

It was a case of evolution, a progression of our research and thinking, as well as the culmination of a journey that we’ve been on, looking into how soils affect human societies. When you’re a writer

and you’re constantly looking for connections and patterns, this is what can happen. When David was writing Dirt: The Erosion of Civilizations, he discovered that how we treated the land in the past shaped the way that the land was able to treat the descendants of people. In other words, if you don’t take care of your land, it doesn’t take care of you.

What effects do soil erosion and degradation have on our food supply?

In looking at the UN’s “Status of the World’s Soil Resources" from 2015, the study concludes that 33 percent of the Earth’s soils are already degraded, and we’re losing about 0.3 percent of our ability to feed ourselves—to grow food on this planet every year—due to soil erosion and soil degradation. That doesn’t sound like a big number in any one year, but adding it up over the rest of this century, it comes to 30 percent of our ability to feed ourselves. Adding to this is the serious degradation of the world’s agricultural land from longterm farming practices, such as tilling or plowing, which is the villain in what is becoming a significant planetary problem that can be reversed with regenerative farming practices.

The plow is one of the more destructive implements that mankind has ever invented despite its ability to help feed us in the past. It contributes to soil degradation and erosion because it fundamentally alters the balance between how fast soils are being made and how fast they’re being lost.

What are the benefits of regenerative farming practices?

Regenerative agriculture uses less fertilizer, less pesticide and less fossil fuel. It also increases the carbon content in the soil. Carbon-rich soil retains more water and contains more life, such as whole new worlds of microbial metabolites [the energy and nutrients needed to live and reproduce] that come from soil microbes.

Do farming practices influence the health of crops and human health?

Conventional farming practices use synthetic nitrogen, which degrades organic soil matter and alters the communities of life in the soil. In studies of organic versus conventional, we’ve found that there’s almost always evidence that there are differences in micronutrients and phytochemicals, with organic crops having higher levels of both. Micronutrients are the vitamins and minerals that we need in trace amounts for our health— for example, selenium, boron, zinc and iron—which we need just a little bit of, but that little bit has an oversized effect on our health.

Conventional crops almost always have higher levels of pesticides and heavy metals. There’s a lot of controversy scientifically about how much is enough to affect human health. The companies that make pesticides assure us that the levels in food are perfectly safe. But there are now scientists who are starting to investigate chronic exposure to even small amounts over a whole lifetime. How much does that influence our health? We think there are reasons to keep asking those questions.

It is highly suggestive that the idea of a connection between soil health, crop health and animal health translates into what’s in our food. If we’re getting more vitamins, phytochemicals and mineral micronutrients, which are shown to support health, you can make the argument

that these regeneratively grown foods are probably healthier for us to eat.

What influence do farming practices have on livestock and human health?

The nature of what ruminants eat greatly influences the nature of the fats that are in meat and dairy. Livestock grazing on leafy green plants are getting an omega3-rich diet. Ruminants that eat predominantly seed- or seed oil-derived rations

in a feed lot are getting a mainly omega-6-derived diet. Omega-6 fats help trigger inflammation. We want our bodies to be able to trigger inflammation when we need it, but we also want it to turn off when it’s done. Inflammation is not a process that just stops, so we need omega-3 fats, which are central to the process of terminating or quelling inflammation.

Nomadic Healer Bill Flanigan treats physical, emotional and spiritual pain. Healing works both in person or remotely. Book your appointment to kickstart your healing.

Linda Sechrist has been a contributing writer to Natural Awakenings publications for 20 years.

The Sweet Tapestry of Summer

by Marlaina Donato

July is a heady mix of peak temperatures, sustenance from the soil and inspired invitations to make lasting memories. For gardeners, it is a lilting time of fruition in between rounds of hard work when one’s efforts can be harvested, eaten and appreciated. Summer’s apex brings wildflower tapestries woven with cricket-song and evenings punctuated by rolling thunderstorms, but it also can be a time for us to take a deep dive into the miracle of interconnectedness. Visiting the local farmers market is an opportunity to be mindful of all that goes into our shopping bags and bellies: rain, sunlight, nitrogen-rich snowmelt and the vital fertility of topsoil. We can see everyday people in a different light, especially Earth-conscious farmers who choose to be birthing partners of the land.

Taking a walk outside can remind us that no life would be possible without the near-magical, unseen mycelium network beneath our footsteps. Summer’s delicate balance of elements ensures abundance, and we have a sacred opportunity to be part of

that equilibrium. Each of us is a link in the chain of humans co-creating within the symbiosis of all other living things. Will we take away from this balance or add to it?

Adding to it does not require hours of time or money, but the motivation to make simple decisions for the greater good, such as leaving part of the lawn to grow for the winged ones or choosing an eco-friendly refillable water bottle over single-use plastic. Showing a child how to keep a nature journal can foster lifelong connections with the Earth.

We do our part when we joyfully become part of the landscape—witnessing, observing and allowing nature to go about her business. Making time for languid appreciation contributes to self-nourishment, something that is also vital to the whole. How many avian voices can you hear at sunset? How many colors can you find in a changing mural of clouds? The season of plenty offers a harvest of beauty.

Marlaina Donato is an author, visionary painter and composer. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.

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Hues of Health

BENEFITS OF A COLORFUL DIET

by Veronica Hinke

Eating plant-based foods from every hue in the rainbow provides an exceptional array of health benefits. Rich in essential vitamins, minerals and fiber, vibrantly colored fruits and vegetables also contain phytonutrients such as antioxidants, flavonoids, carotenoids and polyphenols that contribute to the color, flavor and aroma of such foods. There are thousands of phytonutrients and, according to a 2022 review of clinical studies published in Nutrients, these natural chemical compounds “play an important role in the prevention of serious chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity and hypertension, along with different types of cancer or degenerative diseases.”

From a culinary perspective, colorful, plant-based foods add pops of color and flavor to a dish, and simple techniques can transform uber-nutritious fruits and veggies into crave-worthy delights. From tasty spreads and luscious dressings to pungent pickling recipes and rich soups, eating the rainbow can be a scrumptious and sustainable everyday lifestyle.

Keeping a medley of wholesome choices in the house is a good tactic to help a family adopt a rainbow-based diet. According to Registered Dietitian Olga Kras, “Not any single fruit or vegetable provides all of the nutrients we need. Making a variety of colors of fruits and vegetables visible increases the likelihood that they will be part of a daily routine.”

When her children were younger, instead of giving them sugary treats, she would cut fruits and vegetables into shapes with cookie cutters. “They loved opening their lunch boxes to find the fun shapes,” she recalls, noting the allure of visually pleasing treats.

As the first-century Roman Apicius said, “We eat first with our eyes.”

According to Sarah Stegner, co-owner and chef of Prairie Grass Cafe, in Northbrook, Illinois, “Food is medicine. It is what lifts us up. When we allow ourselves to get run-down or we are tired, that is when we are the most vulnerable, and we reach for that highly processed, packaged thing. That’s when we compromise, and compromise leads to long-term illness.”

Dwayne Watson/ShutterStock.com

Stegner compares food shopping to a trip to an art store for the artist that is about to paint a rainbow. “Center yourself,” she counsels. “Don’t put anything into the cart that shouldn’t be eaten. The key word is choice. If people don’t understand and realize what the choices they have are—for example, what herbs are and how to use them—then that is not a choice for them when they go home to cook a meal.”

“It’s just fun to have foods that are colorful,” says Erin Hoogendyk, a cooking instructor at Grebe’s Chef Center, in Wausau, Wisconsin, whose favorite flavor accents are onions, lemons and limes, as well as a panoply of herbs, including basil, rosemary, chives, parsley and mint. To add color and nutrition to everyday salads, she tosses in blueberries or dresses them with homemade vinaigrettes made with strawberries and balsamic.

Hoogendyk recommends farmers markets, individual farm stands and community-supported agriculture subscriptions to discover the freshest, in-season ingredients. When it comes to cooking and putting meals together, a sense of adventure and enjoyment is paramount, she says. Her coleslaw recipe includes red and green onions, radishes and red cabbage. “I don’t like coleslaw to be boring,” she quips, adding that her next project is to pickle an ingredient she has never pickled before: celery. “I can’t wait to see how it turns out.”

For those wanting to optimize their rainbow-based diets, “testing can help people understand how to best support their biology and determine what their bodies need,” says Dr. Véronique Desaulniers, a chiropractor and author of Heal Breast Cancer Naturally. She recommends the DNA test kit and whole-body health report from Nutrition Genome to pinpoint which foods to enjoy or avoid, depending on genetic weaknesses. Close monitoring of blood sugar levels is also important, she notes, as daily glucose and insulin spikes “can turn on cancer-causing genes and cancer-causing pathways.”

Veronica Hinke is a food historian and author of The Last Night on the Titanic: Unsinkable Drinking, Dining and Style. Learn more at FoodStringer.com.

CHEESY CAULIFLOWER MUSHROOM STEAKS

This dish can be served as a meal or cut into smaller pieces and presented as party appetizers. Cauliflower provides vitamins B6 , K and C, magnesium and fiber. It is also a great source of glucosinolates and isothiocyanates, two types of antioxidants that have been shown to slow the growth of cancer cells.

Button mushrooms are a source of vitamin D, selenium, phosphorus and folate. They also contain polysaccha rides, indoles, polyphenols and carotenoids, which are associated with cancer-fighting properties.

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

4 slices of cauliflower, ¾-inch thick

1 tsp cooking spray

4 tsp olive oil

1 Tbsp dry Italian seasonings

2 cups fresh brown button mushrooms, sliced

2 fresh garlic cloves, minced

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ tsp sea salt

½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

½ tsp red pepper flakes

1 Tbsp fresh thyme for garnish

Preheat the oven to 400º F and spray two large baking sheets with cooking oil. Place the cauliflower slices onto one o baking sheets. They need lots of space between them and shouldn’t overlap. Brush each side of the cauliflower steaks lightly with the olive oil and season with sea salt, pepper and Italian seasonings. Roast 20 to 25 minutes, flipping once, until both sides are golden brown.

In a mixing bowl, add mushrooms, minced garlic, a pinch of sea salt and pepper, then toss to coat well. Spread the mushroom mixture on the other oil-sprayed baking sheet and bake for 10 to 15 minutes in the preheated oven. As an alternative, sauté the mushroom mixture in a medium pan with 1 teaspoon of oil over medium-high heat for 5 to 6 minutes.

Once done, remove the pans from the oven. Sprinkle roasted cauliflower steaks with cheese and top the cheese with the roasted or sautéed mushrooms and garlic mixture. Return to the oven for 2 to 3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Sprinkle with fresh thyme and enjoy.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Jennifer Carden.

This vibrant, lime green-colored soup is an excellent source of potassium, fiber, vitamins B6 and C, iron, magnesium and calcium. It also contains several phytonutrients, including the carotenoids lutein, zeaxanthin and B-carotene, as well as tocopherols. For the croutons, choose a healthy bread, such as sprouted whole grain, gluten-free, almond flour or flax loaves.

YIELD: 2 TO 6 SERVINGS, DEPENDING ON PORTION SIZE

For soup:

6 cups broccoli florets, chopped

2 cups vegetable or chicken stock

1 generous pinch of sea salt

1 pinch of chili pepper flakes

3 Tbsp butter

For croutons:

1 cup diced bread

2 Tbsp melted butter

½ tsp fresh thyme, chives or other fresh garden herbs, minced

Bring the stock to a boil. Add the sea salt and chili flakes. Add the broccoli and cook until fork tender and bright green. Transfer to a blender, add butter and blend well. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve with aged cheddar cheese and croutons.

To make the croutons, toss the diced bread in a bowl with melted butter, salt and fresh herbs. Spread the bread in an even layer on an oven-safe pan. Bake at 350º F and toast until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.

SUMMER BROCCOLI SOUP WITH HERB CROUTONS

Recipe and photo courtesy of Sarah Stegner.

MARINATED BEETS AND GOAT CHEESE CROSTINI

Deriving their deep-red color from phytonutrients called betalains, beets are rich in nitrates, which help to lower blood pressure. They also provide calcium, folate and fiber. The pistachios in this recipe contain potassium, fiber, vitamins B6 and C, iron, magnesium and calcium.

YIELD: 6 SERVINGS

1 lb mixed-color baby beets

1 cup orange juice

1 cup apple cider

1 cup honey

1 sprig fresh thyme

1 pinch sea salt

1 pinch grain mustard

3 oz goat cheese

2 Tbsp herbs (chives, basil, mint), chopped

3 oz olive oil

3 oz chopped pistachios

1 toasted baguette, sliced

Remove the beet tops and reserve for other uses. Boil the beets in salted water until tender. Allow to cool slightly and rub the skin off the beets. Using an old dish towel will help the skin come right off.

Mix the vinegar, honey and orange juice in a bowl. Add the thyme and mustard. Add the beets, cover and allow them to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Place the oil, sea salt, herbs and pistachios in a blender. Pulse until slightly pureed and chunky.

To assemble the crostini, remove the beets from the marinade and slice. Spread the goat cheese onto the toasted baguette slices and top with the beets. Drizzle the pistachio sauce on top and serve.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Sarah Stegner.

JULY 2023 daily & ongoing

FRIDAY, JULY 7

Core and Balance Clinic – 10:45-11:45am; each Fri. in July. Learn basic anatomy of balance and practice poses that will strengthen your core and enhance your balance. Beginners to advance practitioners are welcome. Online option available (via Zoom) upon request once registered for the workshop. $80. Yoga Loka, 23 Race Street, Frenchtown Borough. For information call 908-268-7430 and visit Yoga-Loka.com.

SATURDAY, JULY 8

French Lavender Wreath Workshop –10am-noon. At the height of the 2-week long bloom time of our French lavender, join Nicole of Spadaflora Botanical Artistry to make a wreath from freshly harvested phenomenal long-stemmed lavender. There is nothing like the color and scent of fresh lavender. It will dry beautifully, lasting well into the next year. Rain or shine workshop limited to 8 attendees. $170. Mad Lavender Farm, 452 Co Rd 579, Milford. 908-310-5973. MadLavenderFarm. com/workshops/workshops.

Mushroom Cultivation Workshop – 1-3pm. Join mushroom cultivators and foragers Jeff Mertz and Kacy Binz in a fun and hands-on mushroom cultivation workshop learning each step from mycelium to mushroom. Leave with your own at home mushroom growing kit. Mushroom snacks and tea will be provided, as well as print outs of all the information. $65. Mad Lavender Farm, 452 Co Rd 579, Milford. 908-310-5973. MadLavenderFarm.com/ workshops/workshops.

SUNDAY, JULY 9

French Lavender Wreath Workshop –1-3pm. At the height of the 2-week long bloom time of our French lavender, join Nicole of Spadaflora Botanical Artistry to make a wreath from freshly harvested phenomenal long-stemmed lavender. There is nothing like the color and scent of fresh lavender. It will dry beautifully, lasting well into the next year. Rain or shine workshop limited to 8 attendees. $170. Mad Lavender Farm, 452 Co Rd 579, Milford. 908-310-5973. MadLavenderFarm. com/workshops/workshops.

Learn the Art of Primative Rug Hooking – 1-3pm. Have you ever wanted to create something but not sure where to start? Rug

All calendar events for the August 2023 issue must be received by July 10 and adhere to our guidelines. To submit, visit https://www.naturalawakeningsnj.com/ pages/calendar-listings or email kathy@NaturalAwakeningsNJ.com for submission form.

Hooking is a fiber art where we use recycled wool clothing, I will help you visualize your personal design, and bring it into reality. All materials provided. Scale from $15 - $60 depending on supplies needed. Beginners welcome, RSVP for material prep. . Seasoned rug hookers invited for inspiration, please bring a project to work on. Ellen Perkins at Gaia’s Gifts, 16 Broad St., Washington. For information, call 908-223-1331 or email Ellen at perkins145@comcast.net. GaiasGifts.net.

Dancing with Dragons – 8-9:30pmDragons are ancient celestial beings that are here to help guide us, protect us and work with us as we go through life. Includes guided meditation and opportunity to power dance with these magickal companions. $25; prereg req. A Year and a Day Mystical Shoppe, 413 Bond St., Asbury Park. 848-217-2371. AYearAndADayMysticalShoppe.com.

SATURDAY, JULY 15

Cacao/Fire Ceremonial Circle & Sound Bath

– July – 1-2:30pm. Join Leslee Penny for a journey of spiritual release, de-stressing, healing, and letting go of what no longer serves you. Learn breathwork techniques, utilizing them in a guided meditation followed by a full-body resonant sound healing. Bring comfortable clothing and something to lie down on . $55. Mad Lavender Farm, 452 Co Rd 579, Milford. 908-310-5973. MadLavenderFarm.com/workshops/ workshops.

SUNDAY, JULY 16

Lavender Sage Smudge Workshop – 1-3pm. Learn to wrap gorgeous, heavenly scented smudge sticks with up to four different herbs. The colors are spectacular and the combination of aromas when they are burned are so cleansing, soothing and elevating to the soul. We will make two smudge sticks in our workshop. It’s all about having fun and making a glorious mess. $65. Mad Lavender Farm, 452 Co Rd 579, Milford. 908-3105973. MadLavenderFarm.com/workshops/ workshops.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 19

New/Full Moon Yoga & Tarot Workshop – 6-7:30pm. Practicing yoga and reading tarot cards are two ways that many people

learn to tune in, reflect, and strengthen their connection to themselves and the world around them. This workshop engages beginners and experienced practitioners alike. Expect a combination of journaling, basic and restorative yoga poses, and a single card spread tarot reading for yourself. Led by Jenn of Wildflower Yoga and Adrienne of Mad Lavender Farm. Tickets are available through Wildflower Yoga Collective. $55. Mad Lavender Farm, 452 Co Rd 579, Milford. 908-310-5973. MadLavenderFarm.com/ workshops/workshops.

THURSDAY, JULY 20

Ruchi’s Gong Sound Bath – 7-8pm. 3rd Thur. Come relax, rejuvenate and release at this Sound Healing Event. The Soundscape created by the sounds of the gongs, Himalayan bowls, chimes, bells, rattles, and other healing instruments creates a frequency that bathes your body and allows the restoring of natural resonance. $25 per person. Led by Ruchi Jain. Sand Hills Wellness Center, 57 Sand Hills Road, Kendall Park. 732-4193551. DeepRootsRising.com.

FRIDAY, JULY21

Women’s Vision Quest Retreat Catskills Begin Now – 3pm; 7/21-23. 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. Come for a nurturing weekend of ceremony, journeys, transformation, and rebirth, with Shaman Janet StraightArrow. Limited to 8 participants. $800; payment plan available. Art Farm, 31 Fawn Road, North Road, Accord. 973-647-2500. BeTheMedicine.com.

Gong Bath Sound Journey – 6:30-8pm; 3rd Fri. each mo. Sound vibration powerfully moves stuck energy. Spend an evening relaxing to the sounds of a 39” gong, antique singing bowl, crystal singing bowls and other sound makers. $35. Ellen Perkins at Gaia’s Gifts, 16 Broad St., Washington. RSVP required as space is limited. For information, call 908-223-1331 or email Ellen at perkins145@comcast.net. GaiasGifts.net.

SATURDAY JULY 22

Past Lives Regression Workshop – 6-8pm. Join us as we take a look into your past. Past lives, that is! Join Howard Mertine (Alternative Therapies Work, LLC) with Everett Magie (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. $40. RSVP early as space limited to 12. Pay at door or PayPal Howard at hgmertine@gmail.com. Location: Alien Ink Tattoos: 264 Route 206 South, Unit 3, Flanders. For information call 973-652-7962.

SUNDAY, JULY23

Conversation with Crystals – 1-3pm. This is a monthly gathering to learn about crystals, focusing on only 4-5. Learn how to use them either daily or for a specific purpose. $35 includes crystals. RSVP required by 6/21/23. Ellen Perkins at Gaia’s Gifts, 16 Broad St., Washington. RSVP to 908-223-1331 or perkins145@comcast.net. GaiasGifts.net

Elderflower and Yarrow Workshop- July –1-3pm. Elderberry and Yarrow bestow us with their lacy blossoms in July. Both blossoms are full of beneficial properties from nourishing our skin, moving fevers, soothing colds and so much more! During this workshop we will spend time in the garden with Elder and Yarrow then to our workshop to create a facial toner as well as a tea blend to take home. You will leave with additional recipes and ritual work to further explore your connection to Elder and Yarrow. $45. Mad Lavender Farm, 452 Co Rd 579, Milford. 908-3105973. MadLavenderFarm.com/workshops/ workshops.

THURSDAY,

JULY27

Light Language Activation/Workshop –4-6pm In this workshop, Michael will explain in depth the language of the light. He will channel it to each participant, giving them an activation of their unique light codes. This workshop is a great way for beginners to learn about and experience Light Language. $25 per person. Pre-Registration required. A Year and a Day Mystical Shoppe, 413 Bond St., Asbury Park. For information call 848-217-2371 or visit AYearAndADayMysticalShoppe.com.

plan ahead

SUNDAY, AUGUST 20

Natural Dye: Mellow Yellows and Glorious Goldens – August – 1-3:30pm. Using barks, cones and seasonal flowers, we will dye organic cotton bandanas We will also play with the petals used in the dye process by steaming and pounding them into cotton rag papers. Workshop includes discussion of natural dye process on cellulose fabric

and how to make natural watercolors from leftover dye baths. Lavender lemonade and lovely cookies included. $45. Mad Lavender Farm, 452 Co Rd 579, Milford. 908-3105973. MadLavenderFarm.com/workshops/ workshops.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 25

Sound Healing Workshop – 9am-6pm; 8/25-27. Join us for this 3-day Level 1 Certification Course with Debbie HawkerMisra/The Academy of Sound Healing. Learn how to offer sound healing, sound therapy, vibrational sound massage, sound baths and mindfulness meditation with sound to help yourself and others. Hands on experiential workshop with bowls, gongs, tuning forks, drums, and voice. Location: Tenafly, NJ. Register at AcademyOfSoundHealing.com/ workshop-courses-usa#northeast or call Debbie at 201-923-9829.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9

Ethos Farm Days Festival 2023 – Sep. 9-10. Food is medicine, for us, our community, our land, our planted. Learn what you can do to help heal yourself and the planet. Inspiring Speakers and fun activities for rthe entire family. Tickets: EthosFarmProject/ FarmDays. Use Code FDNA10 for 10% Off. Festival is at 177 West Mill Rd. Long Valley, NJU. For informationm contact 908-8670060 or inquiry@ethosfarmproject.org. EthosFarmProject.org.

ongoing

monday

Breathe, Meditate & Be Happy – 6:30pm. Learn SKY Breath Meditation to be energized and efficient for healthy living and happy relationships. Free. RSVP http://tiny.cc/ breathe-summit. For information, Maya. yagnik@us.artofliving.org or 908-376-6729. ArtOfLiving.org.

tuesday

Mediumship, Intuitive, & Psychic Development Circle – 7-9pm. This on-going, interactive workshop series is presented in a way that assists in building intuitive muscle. Maureen guides participants in connecting with their intuition. This is a spiritual growing environment, and each week will focus on different techniques to help you unfold and develop to the next level. Every class will be different in development lessons. All levels welcome! $15. Portal of Healing, 50 Main St., Top Flr, Chester. PortalOfHealing.com.

wednesday

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

thursday

Science of Breath – 6:30pm. Learn SKY Breath Meditation to be energized and efficient for healthy living and happy relationships. Free. RSVP http://aolf.co/Science-of-breath. For information, Morriscounty@us.artofliving.org or 973-833-2193. ArtOfLiving.org.

friday

Qi Gong with JoeyG – 6:30pm. 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. For details call 888-460-4050, text 908-864-8111. AdvancedFrequencyEnergySpa.com.

saturday

Washington Borough Farmers’ Market – 10am-2pm. Join us each Saturday through September for farm fresh offerings, outstanding vendors and entertainment. Downtown Washington by Veteran’s Park. For full schedule of weekly events visit washingtonbid.org/farmers-market.

classifieds

Have a business opportunity, job opening, space for rent or other need? Place your classified ads here, 30 words for $30, extra words $1 each. Email to Joe@NaturalAwakeningsNJ.com by the 10th of the month prior to publication date.

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. 908-268-8029. FB Metaphysical & Spiritual Bliss. Instagram @cmatsen11

Ann Ochs has more than 20 years experience as a colon hydrotherapist.

• Advanced Certification from the International Association of Colon Therapists (I-ACT)

• Certified by the National Board for Colon Hydrotherapy

• Certified body ecologist.

Experience cleansing

North Central New Jersey Community

business directory

Your local source for natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.

Join the community! Request our media kit today by emailing Joe@NaturalAwakeningsNJ.com

Acupuncture

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 14.

Acupuncture/Wellness

Kismet Acupuncture & Apothecary

Katie Us, L. Ac., Dipl. Ac.

200 North 14th Street, Kenilworth 973-874-9445

Info@kismetacupuncture.com

KismetAcupuncture.com

Kismet Acupuncture & Apothecary is a cozy, woman-owned health and wellness practice focused on helping you live your best life via holistic, whole-body healing. We believe in creating partnerships with our patients to ensure you leave feeling better. See ad, page 17.

Bakery/Specialty

Starseed Bakery

Linda Beg

100 Hibernia Avenue, Rockaway 973-957-0500

StarseedBakery@gmail.com

StarseedBakery.com

100% gluten-, dairy-, soyand GMO-free retail and wholesale bakery. Available products: artisan breads, custom cakes, pies, cookies, desserts, seasonal, vegan, Paleo, natural sugars, nutfree. See ad, page 24.

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 31.

Breathwork/Meditation

Art of Living- Morris county

Online and In-person Workshops for Breathwork and Meditation

973-833-2193

morriscounty@us.artofliving.org taplink.cc/aolmorriscounty

Art of Living- Morris county, a team of facilitators and volunteers bring the mission of Art of living, to bring stress free living to the Morris & Sussex county residents. They conduct events and Workshops teaching Breathwork, Meditation and Yoga designed for various age groups, SKY kids for 8-12 year olds, SKY teens for 13-17 year old and SKY Breath Meditation for 18 and above. See ad, page 34.

Art of Living- Union county

Online and In-person Workshops for Breathwork and Meditation

973-833-2193

summit@us.artofliving.org

Art of Living- Union county, a team of facilitators and volunteers bring the mission of Art of living, to bring stress free living to the Union & Essex county residents. They conduct events and Workshops teaching Breathwork, Meditation and Yoga designed for various age groups, SKY kids for 8-12 year olds, SKY teens for 13-17 year old and SKY Breath Meditation for 18 and above. See ad, page 34

Biofeedback/ Frequency Healing

AO Scan with BlueSkai Healing

Nicole and Alex Rodrigues

973-493-3139

blueskaihealing@gmail.com

Taplink.cc/blueskaihealing

The AO Scan bio-resonance/ frequency device identifies and shifts areas energetically out of balance back into alignment. We help holistic practitioners (eg, vets, dentists, chiropractors, nutritionists, energy healers) who purchase scanners through BlueSkai to integrate the AO Technology into their practices. See ad, page 7

Coaching

Law Of Attraction Life Coach

David Scott Bartky, CLOALC 973-444-7301

David@LifeCoachDavid.com

LifeCoachDavid.com

David is a certified and experienced Law of Attraction life coach. His clients all have great success because he teaches them powerful processes and techniques so they can attract what they want, instead of what they don’t want in all areas of life (both materialistically and emotionally). The Law of Attraction is always responding to you, so if you’re ready to say “Yes!” to attracting what you want, and/or improving your life in some way, contact David today. Coaching sessions are held over the phone and the first session is always free.

Colon Hydrotherapy

Living Waters Wellness Center

Ann Ochs • Colon Hydrotherapist

I-ACT Certified

26 Elm St, Morristown 973-998-6550 • ColonHealthNJ.com

AnnLivingWaters@aol.com

Ann Ochs has more than 20 years experience as a colon hydrotherapist. She holds an advanced certification from the International Association of Colon Therapists (I-ACT), is certified by the National Board for Colon Hydrotherapy, and is a certified body ecologist. Living Waters offers the Angel of Water®, an advanced colon hydrotherapy system, designed to offer the ultimate in privacy and dignity. Call today Cosmetics – Organic. See ad, page 39.

Enzyme Nutrition

Next Level Healing Of NJ, Inc.

Susan Richter, RN, Nutritionist, CCH, LDHS Denville • 973-586-0626

NextLevelHealing.com

Enzyme nutrition is becoming a sought after therapy for the underlying digestive issues related to autism, auto-immune diseases, chronic pain, skin problems, mood disorders, bowel issues and allergies. The system of analysis is scientific, non-invasive, and based on anatomy and physiology. The methods of correction are foodbased, drug-free, and have no side effects. Regardless of age or diagnosis, correcting digestion, supporting the immune system, and following guidelines for healthy choices are the backbone of Susan’s successful private practice of 36 years. Call for a gentle approach to healing.

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. He is passionate about helping people with degenerative eye diseases. Learn of his astounding work in this area— 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 14

Frequency Healing

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 7.

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 21.

Healing & Apprenticeship

Haven of Harmony

Rev. Denise Saracco-Zoppi

23 Diller Ave., Newton 862-268-3213

havenofharmonynj@gmail.com HavenOfHarmonyNJ.com

NJ Lic. # NJ 18KT00314000

Rev. Denise supports the awakening of your inner healer. Whether you’re searching for support in your own healing journey or a mentor to awaken your innate healing gifts, Rev. Denise has supported thousands of patients and students since 2006. See ad, page 30.

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 Dental Center

Vladimir Gashinsky, DDS

91 Millburn Avenue, Millburn 973-457-4688

HolisticDentalCenterNJ.com

Holistic dental care that is good for the body as well as teeth and gums. By treating the cause, not just the symptoms, Dr. Gashinsky helps improve his patients’ quality of life through dental care that respects and honors the body. See ad, page 3 .

Holistic Healing Services

Heartmath+

Linda Sercarz Certified Heartmath Coach Serving North Jersey & surrounding area 973-714-8650 • Sercarz@aol.com

Heartmath+ consists of simple heart-focused, sciencebased meditations. The techniques are designed to change the way your body responds to stress by learning to self-regulate. They create more resilience, coherence, clarity (even in stressful situations), and the apacity to self-regulate. Heartmath+.

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 11.

“Never mistake motion for action.”

- Ernest Hemingway

“If you want to make enemies, try to change something.”

- Woodrow Wilson

“It is never too late to be what you might have been.”

- George Eliot

Morris Hypnosis Center

Linda West, BA, ACH

55 Madison Ave, Morristown

973-506-9654

MorrisHypnosisCenter.com

Advanced clinical hypnosis using interactive, personalized techniques; based on a lengthy interview at the first session and dialogues at following sessions. For weight loss, stress/anxiety, smoking, chronic pain, improved performance, trauma, substance use, sleep, fears/phobias, anger, confidence, studying/ memory issues, and more. Self-hypnosis is taught at the first extended session. If you have constraints that you can’t seem to break through, or are overly burdened by negative thoughts or feelings, hypnosis can free you and put you back in charge.

MTHFR Educator

Margaret M. Gegenheimer

Certified Holistic Health Consultant, Author, Teacher, Researcher

mmaoneill@gmail.com

973-714-4204

aaarmed.org

Learn how to reverse engineer the many illnesses brought on by this MTHFR gene disorder. Sixty percent of the population has a variant of this disorder yet doctors are not taught how to recognize or treat it. You must educate yourself and I have simplified the knowledge for you. Together we can make a huge impact on your well-being.

Past Life Regression Therapy & Hypnotherapy

Cathy Ludwig, Ed.S., LPC

109 Main St., Suite 1B, Succasunna

201-738-8311 • ludcat2001@gmail.com

CathyLudwig.com

Do you want to make peace with your past? Self-acceptance and clarity are yours when you determine how the past is influencing the present and when you make conscious choices about the future. As a licensed psychotherapist, Cathy helps you experience healing in all areas of your life. Using the powerful and effective treatments of Past Life Regression Therapy or Hypnotherapy alone or in combination with talk therapy, Cathy helps you develop your full potential, resolve conflict and have more compassion for yourself and others. Call to discuss which treatment option will work best for you. See ad, page 16.

Professional Organizer

Everyday Organizing Solutions by Sherry LLC

Sherry Onweller, Professional Organizer, Life Strategy & Organizing Coach 908-619-4561

SOnweller@aol.com

EverydayOrganizingSolutions.com

Providing sympathetic and nonjudgmental organizing and decluttering services to residential and business clients, also helping adults with ADD to get their physical space and time management in order. Virtual and inperson sessions available. See ad, page 37.

Seafood

KWEE JACK FISH CO

Wild Alaskan Salmon & Halibut Shares 717-842-0180

EatWildSalmon.com

Sustainably harvested wild Alaskan salmon and halibut available, fisherman-direct. Pre-order annually (spring) at EatWildSalmon.com for local pick-up (fall) of sushigrade delicious nutrition, deep-frozen at the peak of freshness to enjoy throughout the year.

Spiritual Healing, Teaching

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.

Spiritual Seekers

Rahway Plainfield Quakers

225 Watchung Ave, Plainfield QuakerCloud.org/cloud/rahway-andplainfield-friends-meeting

If you want to talk with other spiritual seekers about the questions you have about your spiritual journey, join us

Spiritual Pathways

Eckankar in New Jersey

800-870-9139

spirituality@eckankar-nj.org

Eckankar-nj.org

A spiritual teaching that helps you recognize your true nature, Soul, an eternal, unique spark of God. Learn creative techniques to explore the path to greater spiritual freedom. See ad, page 35.

Thermography

Lisa’s Thermography and Wellness

Lisa Mack, CCT, HHC

Thermographer and Holistic Counselor

See website for locations in NJ, NY & PA 855-667-9338

Lisa@LisasThermographyAndWellness.com

LisasThermographyAndWellness.com

Thermography gives an early look at the most important indicator of a potential health problem – inflammation. Early stage disease screening is an area in which thermography excels. Whether your pain is acute or chronic, or you are merely curious about the state of your health, thermography can help provide answers. Radiation-free breast and full body screenings for men and women. See ad, page 39.

Veterinarian

Longevity Veterinary Center

265 Route 10 East, Whippany 973-606-1101

info@lvcnj.com lvcnj.com

Longevity Veterinary Center is NJ’s largest, most advanced integrative veterinary center. Our team of professionals is committed to helping pets achieve optimal health through using conventional and holistic therapies. We believe in creating wellness for all pets, including exotics. See ad, page 13

“The only journey is the one within.”

- Rainer Maria Rilke

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