Natural Awakenings Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex NOV 2024 iSSUE

Feasting Tips for Healthy Swaps, Healthy Favorites Recipes and Holiday Soups RISING TO THE CALLING Cultivating Inner Wisdom

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MAKING FRESH PRODUCE

Fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables are good for the body, good for the environment, and good for the community. That’s why we’re working with urban farmers and local growers to make fresh, healthy produce more affordable at farmers markets, farm stands, and neighborhood food stores across North Texas.

Double Up Food Bucks improves access to fresh fruits and vegetables for Texas families, creates more business for farmers, and boosts local economies. Learn how Double Up supports local and how you can get MORE fruits and vegetables at these partner locations.

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FLY PAST TRAFFIC

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DALLAS LOVE FIELD

GREEN OR ORANGE LINE to Inwood/Love Field Station, and then LOVE FIELD SHUTTLE (Bus Route 5) to Dallas Love Field PLAN YOUR

*Heart rate variability (HRV)

*Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

*Physical and mental stress

*Chronic fatigue and electrocardiac stability

*Overall cardiovascular health

*Aging of blood vessels and circulation

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ABlessings, Big and Small

s we enter the season of gatherings and gratitude, I find myself pausing to appreciate the deep impact of faith, health and wisdom in our lives. Thanksgiving reminds us to take stock of our blessings, big and small. For me, it’s become a wonderful time for self-reflection, humankind inspection, and intentional improvement. This year I’m focused on my faith in God, which has been my steadying compass through every joy and challenge. My faith gives me the strength to love even when it’s difficult, to seek understanding when there’s disagreement and to forgive when I feel wronged. It allows me to move through life with a sense of peace and security, knowing I am deeply loved and cared for. My hope is that each of us finds similar anchors that offer comfort, courage and truth.

My sense of gratitude has always been closely tied to my faith, but it’s also been a pleasant byproduct of maturity. This month, I invite you to read “Gaining Wisdom As We Age,” which celebrates the experiences, lessons and insights that shape our perspectives and our responses to life’s ups and downs. I’m so grateful to be on this wonderful journey of deepening understanding—an opportunity not just to cultivate patience, resilience and empathy, but also to use these gifts to nurture future generations.

Thanksgiving is the start of a season that makes food the center of every celebration. As we gather with loved ones, it’s important to consider how we can make these moments healthier without sacrificing flavor or tradition. To that end; we’re excited to share “10 Tips for Healthy Holiday Food Swaps,” a list of simple, thoughtful adjustments that allow you to indulge in Thanksgiving favorites—think casseroles and pies—using lighter, more nutritious ingredients that will leave you satisfied and energized. Consider swapping out butter for olive oil, refined sugars for natural sweeteners or mashed potatoes for whipped cauliflower. Small changes like these can make a big difference in how you feel and in your long-term health.

In our ongoing commitment to exploring natural, noninvasive health solutions, we’re thrilled to introduce a new one in this month’s issue. Premier Med Spa, in Richardson, has launched an advanced therapy that uses gentle electromagnetic pulses to rebalance the body’s energy fields. Kind of like a needle-free alternative to acupuncture, this therapy uses a electromagnetic pulse reminiscent of the TENS machine pulses to stimulate the energy pathways, offering relief for a range of issues from allergies and tired muscles to digestive discomfort and stress-related ailments. It can be particularly appealing for individuals looking to manage a chronic condition or simply improve their overall well-being.

As usual, we hope you find much in this month’s pages that will inspire you to nurture your physical health, deepen your sense of gratitude and strengthen your connection with others. Whether through small adjustments to your holiday meals, the embrace of new wellness practices or the wisdom that comes with age, let this Thanksgiving be a season where we celebrate all that is good in our lives.

In a world that can sometimes feel uncertain, a spirit of gratitude and a focus on our blessings—large and small—can bring incredible joy and peace.

Wishing you a Thanksgiving filled with love.

Blessings,

Contact me at: Publisher@NADallas.com

DALLAS METROPLEX EDITION

Publisher Bernice Butler

Editor Martin Miron

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Helen Leininger

Web Master Annalise Combs

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CONTACT US

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CONTACT US

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

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Three Days to Recycle

Texas Recycles Day, sponsored by H-E-B Supermarkets from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., November 15, 16 and 17, will be held at the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary. Each visitor that brings a plastic bottle or single-use plastic bag from any retailer receives free admission.

Participants can help conserve and protect Our Texas, Our Future, connect with nature in the 289-acre nature preserve, experience seasonal exhibits such as Dinosaurs Live! (open through February 17, 2025) and explore the indoor museum.

Location: 1 Nature Pl., McKinney. Without a recyclable item, the regular general admission fee applies. Get tickets at HeardMuseum.org/texas-recycles-day-at-heard.

2024 Turkey Trot for Charity

The 57th annual Dallas Turkey Trot will be held on November 28, Thanksgiving Day, in downtown Dallas. Hosted by the nonprofit YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas, it is expected to attract thousands of participants, offering both an eight-mile race and a 5K fun run/walk for all ages and fitness levels. Proceeds support programs that foster youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

Last fall, the race drew in nearly 18,000 runners and walkers, This year’s event will feature fun and entertainment for the whole family, including two costume contests—one for runners and one for dogs—and new for this year, a Diaper Dash for the youngest YMCA kids. Participants in the Diaper Dash will receive their own race onesie. Virtual and in-person partici pants will receive fun race swag in addition to a race T-shirt. Participants are invited to don festive attire such as turkey costumes or pilgrim hats, and celebrate the holiday with family, friends and neighbors.

To register, visit TheTrot.org. Both in-person and virtual participation options are offered. For more information, call 855-969-5515.

Autumn at the Arboretum

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden 19th annual Autumn at the Arboretum, presented by Reliant, will continue through November 5, where visitors can immerse themselves in an extraordinary fall experience featuring a display of more than 100,000 pumpkins, gourds and squash from the Texas pumpkin capital of Floydada, as well as 150,000 fall-blooming plants.

The signature Pumpkin Village with the 2024 theme of Texas Town, invites guests to step back in time to explore the rich history of early Texas pioneers with life-sized recreations of traditional town scenes and historical landmarks. It includes a town square, pioneer homestead and frontier church.

Other highlights include live music, performances, artisan markets and children’s daily activities such as pumpkin painting, historical reenactments and educational tours through Texas Town.

Location: 8525 Garland Rd., Dallas. Tickets are available at the gate or DallasArboretum.org/autumn.

Willowbend Sexual Wellness Seminar

Willowbend Health & Wellness will conduct a webinar, Optimizing Your Feminine Health & Sexual Wellness in Midlife & Beyond, at 8:30 p.m., November 11. Phyllis Gee, M.D., explains, “Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) symptoms are very common and adversely affect women’s health and quality of life. Sometimes this begins before menopause, and often worsens without effective therapy. GSM is the current term that replaces previously used ‘vulvovaginal atrophy’ and ‘atrophic vaginitis’ because it encompasses all the menopause signs and symptoms associated with menopause that affect the vagina, vulva and urinary tract.” She will discuss the treatment options available.

As many as 50 to 80 percent of postmenopausal women experience GSM. Symptoms may range from dryness, itching, burning or irritation of the vulva, lack of lubrication and discomfort or pain and lack of pleasure with sexual activity, as well as increased frequency or urgency of urination, and increased risk of urinary tract infection or urine leakage. This allows a more hospitable environment for bacterial growth and increases the risk of urinary tract infection which can become life-threatening if unrecognized and untreated.

To sign up for the event, visit Tinyurl.com/WillowbendOptimizing. For more information, contact Phyllis Gee, M.D. at WillowbendHealthAndWellness.com. See ad, page 13.

Phyllis Gee, M.D.

Texas Dominates Wind and Solar Power Generation

by Martin Miron

An interactive Renewables on the Rise dashboard at EnvironmentTexasCenter. org allows users to explore clean energy growth in Texas and the country over the past decade. It shows that Texas ranks first in the nation for wind power generation, second for solar power generation, second for battery storage and third for the number of electric vehicle registrations through 2023, according to the Environment Texas Research & Policy Center (ETRPC).

Texas is set to receive $360 million from the federal government to interconnect the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) grid with other southern states, potentially bringing cheap, clean, Texan

energy to hundreds of thousands more. Ian Seamans, city hall advocate with ETRPC, says, “Texas is truly setting the pace in the race toward 100 percent clean and renewable energy.”

Texas has seen a more than 70-fold increase in the amount of electricity it gets from the

sun and a nearly 95-fold increase in battery capacity since 2014. Last year, wind and solar energy produced 31 percent of the state’s electricity. The state has also seen a 40-fold increase in the number of registered electric vehicles. Strong and supportive policies from the federal government, combined with improving technologies and falling prices, have played a key role in driving adoption. Seamans explains, “As climate change increases the severity of hurricanes, back-up power capable EVs are also increasingly becoming life-saving equipment to residents along the Texas coast.”

For more information, visit EnvironmentTexasCenter.org.

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E. coli Linked to Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections (UTI), which occur when bacteria enter the urethra and infect the bladder, urethra or kidneys, are more common in women and can be dangerous if left untreated. They often follow sexual activity or poor bathroom hygiene practices.

According to a 2023 study by George Washington University published in One Health, as many as 640,000 UTIs in the U.S. are caused by consuming meat that contains E. coli bacteria. To reduce the risk of a foodborne UTI infection, it is important to keep kitchen surfaces, tools and hands clean and to cook meat to recommended minimum temperatures, thereby killing the bacteria.

Cardiometabolic Benefits of Caffeine

A study in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that moderate coffee or caffeine intake was associated with a lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Researchers in China and Sweden analyzed the consumption habits of more than 188,000 coffee and tea drinkers in the UK Biobank, a large database of genetic, health and lifestyle information from half a million participants accumulated since 2006.

None of the participants in the study were diagnosed with cardiometabolic disease, which is defined as having at least two of three conditions—Type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease or stroke. After tracking these participants for 12 years, the researchers found that those consuming 200 to 300 milligrams of caffeine daily had a lower risk of cardiometabolic disease than those con-

Physiological Response to Spirituality

A 2023 study in Integrative Medicine Reports involving 68 undergraduate college students evaluated the physiological effects of an eight-week wellness intervention called Awakened Awareness for Adolescents and Emerging Adults designed to help participants develop a personal relationship with their higher self and a higher power, while broadening their awareness toward outward accomplishments.

At the beginning of the study, the researchers collected self-reported information about clinical, psychological and spiritual well-being from the participants and measured their heart rate variability (HRV)—the slight variation in time between heartbeats. HRV is an indirect measure of stress because it indicates the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of the nervous system. A person in a fight-or-flight mode will have lower HRV, whereas a relaxed person may have higher HRV.

Participants attended weekly, 90-minute group sessions. After the last session, the same HRV and well-being data were collected. Significant improvements were noted in the participants’ HRV, suggesting improvements in the ability to recover from stress and spiritual decline. Further research is required to fully understand the role of spirituality in resilience and recovery from stress.

suming less than 100 milligrams. Coffee drinkers had a nearly 50 percent reduction in risk. A 12-ounce cup of coffee contains 100 to 180 milligrams of caffeine.

CatLane from Getty

Microplastics Found in Part of the Brain

According to a study published in JAMA Network Open, Brazilian scientists discovered microplastics in the olfactory bulb, a rounded structure of the brain above each nasal cavity that receives information from the nose and relays it to the brain. Upon analyzing samples of olfactory bulb tissue from 15 deceased individuals, the researchers found tiny microplastics in eight of them, including polypropylene, polyamide, nylon and polyethylene vinyl acetate. Whether these plastics can reach the brain through the olfactory bulb is not clear, but the potential is worrying. While microplastics have been found in the bloodstream and other tissue, their presence in the human brain has not yet been documented.

Processed Foods More Dangerous With Type 2 Diabetes

by Martin Miron

A team of researchers funded by the National Institutes of Health in nutritional sciences, kinesiology and health education at The University of Texas (UT) at Austin have found that consuming ultra-processed foods from diet sodas to packaged crackers and certain cereals and yogurts is closely linked with higher blood sugar levels in people with Type 2 diabetes.

Their paper, published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the team describes how having more ultra-processed foods laden with additives can lead to higher average blood glucose levels over a period of months, a measure called HbA1C, even more than just the presence of sugar and salt in the diet.

“There are a lot of ways to look at and measure healthy eating,” says senior author Marissa Burgermaster, assistant professor of nutritional sciences at UT. “We set out to see which measurement was associated with blood sugar control in people with Type 2 diabetes. We found that the more ultra-processed foods by weight in a person’s diet, the worse their blood sugar control was, and the more minimally processed or unprocessed foods in a person’s diet, the better their control was.”

This and other studies have indicated that eating more ultra-processed foods is linked to higher rates of cardiovascular disease, obesity, sleep disorders, anxiety, depression and early death. Synthetic flavors, added colors, emulsifiers, artificial sweeteners and other artificial ingredients may be in part to blame, and this would suggest that dietary guidelines may need to place more emphasis on ultra-processed foods.

Making Hospice Care Sustainable

The hospice industry is witnessing a surge in environmental sustainability efforts. Providers like Agrace Hospice & Supportive Care and Amedisys, Inc. are making strides toward long-term ecological responsibility. Despite the need for initial investments, hospices anticipate cost savings from reduced energy consumption and enhanced staff recruitment and retention. Agrace aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2025 by investing in renewable energy sources and transitioning to electric vehicles. Similarly, Amedisys has plans to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Other examples, like Hospice of the Western Reserve, demonstrate the ripple effects of sustainability initiatives on the community, aligning with the mission to promote quality of life and leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

Decreasing Birth Rates Concern Countries

A country needs an average birth rate of 2.1 children per family to naturally replace its population. According to the latest 2022 World Bank Group data, the U.S. birth rate is 1.7, the European Union is at 1.5 and China is at 1.2. Among wealthy countries, South Korea has the lowest birthrate at less than 0.8. In a recent survey, one in two South Korean women of child-bearing age said they had no intention of having children. While the number of children is falling, the number of dogs has doubled since 2018 in South Korea. The sale of dog strollers has quadrupled since 2019, and their sale now exceeds the sale of baby strollers. The drop in the birthrate prompted President Yoon to declare a “demographic national emergency” and called on the government to help avoid an “existential crisis”.

Marine Life Migration Blocked by Infrastructure

Karissa Lear, an aquatic ecologist at Australia’s Murdoch University, observed that a long jetty and rock wall built for a marine loading facility disrupted the migration patterns of young green sawfish in Western Australia. Afraid of predators, these juvenile fish were unable or unwilling to swim around the manmade barrier to get from their shallow nursery to essential feeding grounds. Lear believes that marine animals need a hand in getting around human infrastructure, much like wildlife-crossing bridges help animals cross highways and fish ladders help salmon bypass dams on their way to spawn. Modifications to the design and construction of infrastructure are needed to ensure the sustainability of our oceans.

Female Sharks Found Sleeping on a Seabed

Scientists from the University of Tasmania Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies stumbled upon thousands of female Port Jackson sharks sleeping on the seabed. The discovery was made using an underwater robot while on an expedition to Beagle Commonwealth Marine Reserve, a protected area off the coast of Victoria, Australia, and Tasmania. Scientists are puzzled as to why so many sharks were there and why there were only females. One theory is that they had been feasting on local scallops before heading elsewhere to lay their eggs.

New Findings About Dinosaur-Killing Asteroid

Scientists in Europe and the U.S. have discovered some surprising facts about the asteroid that struck the Earth 66 million years ago and wiped out the dinosaurs. By analyzing the dust that covered the Earth following the collision, they surmise that it was formed beyond the orbit of Jupiter in an extremely cold region. The asteroid was rich in water and carbon, making it unique among those that have hit the Earth in the last 500 million years. Additional research is needed to help policymakers implement appropriate countermeasures.

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Rising to the Calling

Earning Wisdom as We Age

by Carrie Jackson

With knowledge that extends beyond any classroom and humility that provokes a familiar kinship, wise elders have been the pillars of communities for millennia. Their nurturing energy, loving warmth and eternal wisdom provide a foundation for learning and growth. By harnessing a connection to nature, reframing cultural roles and cultivating grace and self-care, we all have the capacity to embody the role of a wise elder in our own way.

Nature’s Lessons

“Wise elders are repositories of how to live a good life within nature, and not against it. They are able to perceive and act accord-

ing to the bigger picture and see the impact of actions now on future generations,” says Dr. Darcia Narvaez, professor of psychology emerita at the University of Notre Dame, president of the nonprofit Kindred World and founder of its initiative, The Evolved Nest.

In her book, The Evolved Nest: Nature’s Way of Raising Children and Creating Connected Communities, Narvaez and co-author G.A. Bradshaw, Ph.D., examine how we can restore natural wellness in our families and communities by living in harmony with nature. She points to the idea of “nestedness” as an inspiration for reexamining our own systems of nurturing, understanding and caring for our young and one another.

“A wise elder is one who is deeply nested. They display horizontal nestedness in that they attend to honoring ancestral wisdom and to living for the well-being of future generations. They display vertical nestedness in that they honor and live with Earth’s cycles and nature’s laws, but also feel connected to and confident in the cosmos,” Narvaez explains.

Instead of teaching, wise elders act as guides and model behavior for others. “Wise elders know everyone’s path is unique, and everyone has a gift to uncover, develop and share with the community,” advises Narvaez. “They encourage us toward love and openness, instead of bracing against change. They inspire us to work through our fears and know that words matter. It is easy to discourage the spiritual development of others with words. Stories provide an invitation, instead of persuasion or coercion.”

This wisdom often comes from lessons they have embraced when facing challenges. “It’s not that wise elders are naive livers of life. They are scarred. To become self-actualized, one must accept suffering and learn from it,” she says.

At the same time, they acknowledge that every moment is a gift and live life to the fullest. “Wise elders know enjoyment and want others to experience it, too, whether it’s ice cream, cookies or a sunset. After all, if you are not experiencing foundational joy in your life, something is quite wrong,” asserts Narvaez.

Seeds of Wisdom

A wise elder’s connection with nature is deeply rooted—grounded by the land and inspired by the promise of cultivation. “Seeds are our 400 million-year-old ancestors and elders. Gardens grow us more than we grow them. They nod and bow to seeds; and gardens as teachers are gardens as elders,” says Petra Page-Mann, co-owner of Fruition Seeds, a farm in Naples, New York, that grows and shares regionally adapted seeds.

Founded in 2012, Fruition Seeds is rooted in the idea that each seed, like each of us, is meant to change the world. In August 2024, they shifted from seed sales to sharing seeds as an embodied gift practice, honoring the co-owners’ desire to respect the seeds and practice reciprocity. “This move deliberate ly mirrors and honors what the seeds are teaching us,” Page-Mann explains. “They are

gifts to the Earth, as we all are, and not ours to buy and sell. It’s a way to practice remembering and reimagining a culture of care and belonging. We are rehydrating our relationship with seeds and the land and moving away from a transactional being to an open place of giving and receiving.”

Page-Mann says, “I think of an elder as someone who inspires, challenges, uplifts and comforts. They are people who can accompany us into our challenges and through them, and not just try to fix problems. I see our relationship to wise elders in the way a river flows and changes on a whim. Sometimes it flows quickly, and at other times it moves smoothly and slowly. There might be rocks under the surface or waterfalls and dams along the way. At any moment in our lives, we experience different elements of that river. The river holds us as elders do: always present, offering diverse forms of medicine. There might be a lightning bolt of wisdom or awareness, followed by a cascade of insight. Other times, it’s just sweet meandering; but we don’t need to paddle or swim because we are held by their flow.”

ated with growth. “If we are in our comfort zone, we are safe, and if we are in our panic zone, we are not safe. There’s a discomfort in between. Wise elders are constantly extending their comfort zones and window of tolerance a little wider, so they can move and breathe more freely in that space,” says Page-Mann.

Although anyone can step into elderhood, Page-Mann believes that society needs to reframe its priorities in order to nurture the process. “We don’t have a cohesive cultural fabric for the role of a wise elder,” she points out. “It’s a capitalist and supremacy culture not grounded in love and belonging. Elders have been eroded from our lives. We’re all really shrunken, disconnected versions of ourselves.”

By challenging current priorities and shifting back to the organic flow of the Earth, we can embrace and embody the traits we seek and become role models and guides for others. “There is a natural progression of maturation where we play different roles in the community and can accompany each other with those roles. If we are held in a cohesive cultural fabric of love and belonging, we can step into whatever role is calling us,”

Self-Care Comes First

While wise elders are generous with their time and attention, they value staying grounded. Cheryl Richardson, the Massachusetts-based author of Self-Care for the Wisdom Years: Practical Ways to Celebrate the Mystery and Wonder of Aging, says that doing inner work allows elders to become more available for others. “Wise elders are full of life, steeped in gratitude, eager and excited for new adventures, and able to respond to anything placed before them with wisdom and grace,” she says. “They face aging and mortality with open eyes and a curious heart. They are self-reflective, committed to personal growth and anxious to invest time and energy into their inner lives. They are also happy to share what they’ve learned about life and aging with others. They make their greatest contribution to society by being a powerful example of what it means to embrace aging and the wisdom it provides.”

According to Richardson, “Wise elders see aging as a gift and an opportunity to learn about themselves in new and different ways. They are able to step back, take a deep breath and check their reactions before responding to life’s challenges. They consciously cultivate patience and self-reflection when faced with adversity.

Uplifting Humanity

Coming in December

The wisdom years are an excellent time to challenge the voices that cling to old ways of life. It’s an opportunity to focus less on where you should be and more on where you are and what your soul wants. That’s when the magic of the moment sweeps you off your feet.”

Time Is Essential

At a time when we are living longer than ever, Richardson sees an opportunity to maximize our later years. “Now that longevity affords us a second adult life, we

have time to evolve even more before we die. When people age consciously and prioritize their emotional and physical health, inner life, intimate connections with others and managing their minds, they age with far less fear and much more aliveness, peace and emotional freedom,” she explains.

Wise elders are in tune with their own capacity and availability, and they understand the importance of setting limits. “The gift of mortality is that it makes it easier to say no to those things that are no longer important. Therefore, boundary-setting becomes easier,” Rchardson says. “When you know you have limited time left, you are passionate about spending it wisely. Wise elders have a unique ability to let go of responsibilities that are no longer theirs, and to make space and sit with it. They know when enough is enough and can set firm, loving boundaries. Cultivating these capabilities will not only help us make the most out of our remaining years, but they’ll also mold us into the kind of wise elders so many of us wish we had growing up.”

Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings. Connect at CarrieJackson Writes.com.

Premier Med Spa Brings Bioresonance Therapy to North Texas

by Sheila Julson

When Lauren Rottino founded Premier Med Spa in 2012 with her sister, Registered Nurse and aesthetician Katy Rohr, they set out to curate a diverse offering of beauty and holistic wellness therapies. While building their successful business, Rottino, who had handled all administrative and marketing duties at the spa, was diagnosed with dermatomyositis, an autoimmune condition that causes muscle fatigue, exhaustion and skin rashes.

Rottino combined traditional treatment with natural modalities such as functional nutrition protocols and detoxification therapies, and also had her breast implants removed. After regaining her health, that journey inspired her goal of becoming a functional nutrition therapist through the Functional Nutrition Alliance. In her new role, Rottino helps clients get to the root causes of health concerns through nutrition counseling and supplements.

Her functional nutrition approaches include the RegenU3 bioresonance device, a form of biofeedback. Bioresonance therapy helps analyze where the body is lacking energy. It then works to stimulate and adjust the body’s energy meridians through a frequency-applied technique. It synchronizes well with Premier Med Spa’s other modalities such as intravenous (IV) therapy, in which cocktails

Lauren Rottino

of vitamin mixes are administered to alleviate dehydration, promote weight loss and boost the body’s vitamin reserves.

“Every cell in our body is operated on electromagnetic impulses,” explains Rottino. “When those are off-balance, we begin to feel aches and pains. Bioresonance measures 2,500 different frequencies within the organs, tissues, spine and joints and sends frequencies through those meridians to reverse blockages and harmonize the energy fields.”

Clients receiving the Regen U3 therapy relax in a recliner while electrodes are applied to the body. The device then measures the frequencies; a process that takes just a few minutes. The biofeedback diagnostic process then penetrates the body through acupuncture points and energy flows freely through its meridians. The treatment itself takes up to an hour. Each client’s needs vary depending on their conditions, but Rottino explains that most people need several sessions for the body’s meridians to fully reset.

Most clients are good candidates for bioresonance therapy, she notes. “It is a cutting-edge treatment that addresses issues within the entire body to promote physical and mental

wellness.” The treatments may help alleviate fatigue, fibromyalgia, allergies, Lyme disease symptoms, arthritis, depression and anxiety.

Through bioresonance, along with specialized lab work, Rottino can customize functional wellness plans for each client’s individual needs, which include customized diets, meal ideas, recipes and supplements to balance the gut and address skin problems and digestive issues and promote weight loss. “We incorporate bioresonance therapy together with functional nutrition counseling, which helps address root causes of clients’ ailments,” she explains.

Bioresonance has been used in Germany since 1977, and the therapy has been available in the United States for 25 years. According to Rottino, Premier Med Spa is one the few spas in the Dallas-Fort Worth area that offers bioresonance therapy.

They also provide beauty treatments such as waxing, body sculpting, contouring wraps, facials, Botox, Sculptra aesthetic dermal filler injectables, and hair and scalp treatments. All medical programs are administered under the direction of Dr. Amir Baluch, a anesthesiologist and functional medicine physician board-certified through the American Academy of Anti-Aging Society. He specializes in aesthetics, anti-aging and hormone replacements.

“I take joy in seeing people get better, especially when they tried other options that didn’t achieve results,” Rottino shares. “It’s rewarding to see results and see people recover from their ailments.”

Premier Med Spa is located at 2001 N. Collins Blvd., Ste. 105, in Richardson. For more information, call 214-730-6300 or visit PremierMedSpaTX.com. See ad, page 15.

10 Tips for a Tastier, Healthier Thanksgiving Feast

by Martin Miron

By making some strategic swaps, we can enjoy a flavorful Thanksgiving meal that is not only more balanced and nutritious, but is delicious while supporting heart health and digestive wellness.

Swap Butter with Olive Oil or Avocado Oil

Olive oil and avocado oil are rich in hearthealthy monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and reduce the risk of heart disease. These oils are less processed and contain antioxidants that support overall cardiovascular health. They also have anti-inflammatory properties, unlike butter, which is high in saturated fats.

Swap White Flour with Whole Wheat Flour

Whole wheat flour is less refined and retains more nutrients such as fiber, vitamins and minerals. The added fiber aids digestion, promotes fullness and helps regulate blood sugar levels, making this swap great for weight management and preventing sugar spikes.

Swap Mashed Potatoes with Mashed Cauliflower

Cauliflower is lower in calories and carbs than potatoes and has a similar creamy texture when mashed. This swap helps lower the overall calorie and carbohydrate intake of the meal, which is beneficial for those managing weight or blood sugar. Cauliflower is also rich in fiber and vitamins C and K.

Swap Sour Cream with Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt contains more protein and probiotics compared to sour cream, and it has fewer calories and less fat. This boosts the protein content of dishes and adds guthealthy probiotics while reducing overall fat and calorie intake.

Swap Sugar with Maple Syrup or Honey

Traditional sugar is highly processed and can cause blood sugar spikes. Natural sweeteners such as maple syrup or honey contain beneficial nutrients including

antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. These natural alternatives have a lower glycemic index, which helps in moderating blood sugar levels. Maple syrup also contains zinc and manganese, while honey has antimicrobial properties.

Swap Traditional Pie Crust with Nut-Based Crust

Nut-based crusts made from almonds or pecans are gluten-free and packed with healthy fats, fiber and protein. This swap adds nutritional value and provides a lower-carb option, which is beneficial for blood sugar control and satiety.

Swap Heavy Cream with Coconut Cream

Coconut cream is a plant-based alternative rich in healthy fats and free from dairy, which makes it easier to digest for those with lactose intolerance. It reduces saturated fat intake and adds a light coconut flavor while being hormone-free compared to conventional cream.

Swap White Bread Stuffing with Whole Grain or Cauliflower Rice

Traditional stuffing is often made with white bread, which is low in nutrients and high in refined carbs. Substituting with whole grain bread or cauliflower rice adds fiber and essential vitamins. Whole grains provide more nutrients such as B vitamins, while cauliflower is low in calories and carbs, helping with digestion and maintain ing stable blood sugar.

Swap Canned Cranberry Sauce with Fresh Cranberry Relish

Canned cranberry sauce is packed with added sugars and preservatives. Making a homemade relish controls the sugar content and uses natural sweeteners. Fresh cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making this a lower-sugar, nutrient-dense alternative.

Swap Candied Yams with Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Candied yams often come with heavy sugars and marshmallows. Roasting sweet potatoes with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup provides natural sweetness without the excess sugar. Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, promoting gut health and reducing inflammation.

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Blissful Bowls

Celebrating With Soup

by Marlaina Donato

Whether we showcase winter’s root vegetables or come home to comfort food simmering on the stove, soup is a language of love with many dialects: from under-the-weather broths and velvety bisques to slow-cooked stews and stick-to-the-ribs chowders. A bowl of soup can bridge the mundane and the magical, inviting us to slow our fast-paced lives, share the bounty with loved ones and honor recipes of generations past.

“Every time I make soup, even if it’s one I’ve made over and over, it fills me with a sense of wonder that a bunch of disparate ingredients—legumes, grains, raw vegetables, onions, garlic, seasonings—always meld in a way that seems almost miraculous,” marvels Nava Atlas, the Hudson Valley, New York-based author of more than 10 cookbooks, including Vegan Soups and Stews for all Seasons

Making Vegetables Shine

Eating seasonally can help our bodies transition into winter, and soups that incorporate cold-weather crops offer delicious versatility. “Thanksgiving is traditionally a time to be thankful for the harvest. Soups in the fall are typically a hearty mix of what you may have grown in your garden. These could be rich and creamy tomato, pumpkin or pea soups,” says Sharon Hapton, founder and CEO of nonprofit Soup Sisters, a food-assistance program in 27 cities across Canada. The author of The Soup Sisters and Broth

Brothers Cookbook attests that taking a little time to make soup “is a great way to nourish our spirits and reconnect with the food.”

In any combination, rainbow carrots, rutabaga, parsnips, leafy greens, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, leeks and winter squashes pack a punch in flavor, color and texture. Special-occasion soups can be simple childhood favorites dressed up with the pungent tastes of sage, rosemary, ginger, chiles or coriander seeds. Creamy soups, whether traditional or vegan, pair beautifully with wild rice, roasted pumpkin seeds or toasted pecans. Atlas suggests combining vegetables in surprising ways to take advantage of contrasting flavors, such as adding sweet potatoes and bell peppers to a black bean stew.

Broth Versus Stock

Although broths and stocks can be made using vegetables and/or bones and seasoned with salt and pepper, a broth is thinner in consistency and requires a shorter simmering time, whereas a stock can be simmered for four to six hours, resulting in a heavier texture. Nutritional bone broth is usually simmered for 12 to 36 hours to create a collagen-rich stock. All of these can be sipped for a soothing repast or incorporated into other recipes.

Bringing Out Flavor With Salt

Atlas notes, “Most soups benefit from judicious salting to bring out the flavors, but I suggest waiting until the end to add salt,

giving the soup time to develop flavor first. And it’s surprising how much of a lift lemon and lime juice can give to soup broth.” For those monitoring their sodium, she recommends salt-free seasoning blends, like Dash, or Spike, a zesty low-sodium option found at health food stores.

The Legacy of a Treasured Recipe

Holiday time can be bittersweet, especially when lost family members are not at the table, but taking out an old, handed-down recipe is a wonderful way to preserve culinary customs and commemorate the family’s heritage. “Creating delicious food like soup from a loved one’s recipe is more than the ingredient list on a card,” says Hapton. “Use the silver spoon handed down from family to stir the love and rekindle the memories of loved ones. A natural flow of storytelling happens when we cook together, and the ‘dash of this and that’ can make its own lively conversation.”

According to Atlas, “Food traditions are a way to embrace each person’s unique history—where their ancestors were from, what was available to them, what they felt comforted by. Yet, despite all the different traditions, food is a great uniter, a fantastic way to connect us as humans.”

Presenting soup in an elegant tureen and putting out toppings such as chopped fragrant herbs or crushed pink peppercorns at each place setting gives soup a festive, gourmet touch. “Don’t wait for a special occasion to bring out the good dinnerware,” Hapton suggests. “Enjoy it every day, even in some small way.”

Ultimately, gratitude is the most important ingredient. This Thanksgiving, invite each guest at the table to ladle a bowl of soup for the person next to them, offering a single word of appreciation as a form of grace.

Marlaina Donato is an author, composer and painter. Connect at BluefireStudio.art.

Mellow Sweet Potato Soup

Subtly spiced with a colorful garnish, this warming soup tempts the eye with an appealing golden color and pleases the palate with the delectable flavor of sweet potatoes.

YIELD: 6 SERVINGS

SOUP

2 Tbsp olive oil

2 medium onions, chopped

2 medium carrots, peeled and diced

1 large celery stalk, diced

A handful of celery leaves

3 to 4 medium-large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 6 cups)

1 tsp ground cumin

½ tsp dried thyme

¼ tsp ground nutmeg

1½ cups unsweetened plant-based milk, or as needed

½ lime, juiced

½ lime, sliced thinly for garnish

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

TOPPING

1 Tbsp olive oil

6 kale leaves, preferably lacinato, stemmed and thinly sliced

1½ cups fresh or frozen (thawed) corn kernels

2 scallions, thinly sliced

¼ cup cilantro leaves

Heat the oil in a soup pot. Add the onions, carrots and celery, and sauté over medium-low heat until all are golden.

Add the celery leaves and diced sweet potato. Add just enough water to cover all but about an inch of the vegetables. Bring to a slow boil. Stir in the cumin, thyme and nutmeg, then lower the heat. Simmer gently over low heat with the cover ajar until the sweet potatoes and vegetables are tender, about 20 to 25 minutes.

Transfer the solid ingredients from the soup pot to a food processor or blender with about 1 cup of the cooking liquid. Process until smoothly pureed (or leave a bit chunky), then stir back into the soup pot. Alternatively, skip the food processor and insert an immersion blender into the pot and blend the soup until pureed to preferred consistency.

Add enough plant-based milk to give the soup a slightly thick consistency. Stir in the lime juice and season with salt and pepper. Simmer over low heat for 10 minutes longer.

For the topping, heat the oil in a medium skillet. Add the kale and sauté until wilted, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the corn and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes longer. Add the scallions and sauté for another minute. Stir in the cilantro and remove from the heat. Mound a little of this topping mixture on each serving of soup, along with a thin slice or two of fresh lime.

Recipe is from Vegan Soups and Stews for All Seasons (5th edition) by Nava Atlas. Photo by Hannah Kaminsky © 2024 Amberwood Press, reprinted by permission.

Hannah Kaminsky

Apple Parsnip Cream With Chorizo Sausage

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

¼ cup butter

2 Gala apples, peeled, cored and diced

2 cups parsnips, peeled and diced

½ large onion, finely chopped

2 Tbsp shallots, finely chopped

2 Tbsp roasted red pepper, minced

1 Tbsp roasted garlic, minced

1½ tsp fresh ginger, peeled and grated

½ tsp ground allspice

¼ tsp dried thyme

2½ cups chicken stock

1 cup whipping cream with 35 percent milk fat

½ cup dry vermouth

½ cup olive oil

Juice of 1 lemon

1 chorizo sausage, uncooked, casing removed

1 tsp sea salt

1 tsp pepper

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add apples, onion, shallots, red pepper, garlic, ginger, allspice and thyme. Cook, stirring often, until the onion has softened.

Add the stock and cream and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, until the apples and parsnips are tender, about

20 minutes.

Transfer the soup ingredients to a food processor or blender and puree until smooth. Return soup to the pot and add vermouth, olive oil and lemon juice. Reheat gently.

Meanwhile, crumble the chorizo sausage in a small skillet. Cook, stirring often, over medium heat until the sausage is cooked through. Drain on paper towels. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Ladle the soup into bowls and scatter the chorizo over the top.

Recipe by chef Liana Robberecht and photo by Julie Van Rosendaal from The Soup Sisters and Broth Brothers Cookbook published by Appetite by Random House, used with permission.

Julie Van Rosendaal

Delicious Healthier Thanksgiving Fare

In celebration of the season, Natural Awakenings Dallas invites readers to embrace a nourishing Thanksgiving with a focus on conscious eating, presenting a collection of delicious, healthier holiday dishes courtesy of Texas A&M AgriLife’s Dinner Tonight. As we gather with loved ones to give thanks, these recipes provide a refreshing approach to traditional holiday meals, balancing flavor with nutrition to support health and wellness.

Broccoli Salad

A refreshing side dish with crispy bacon, sweet fruits, and a creamy yogurt-based dressing.

YIELD: 6 SERVINGS

SALAD MIXTURE

4 cups broccoli florets

¾ cup real bacon bits

1 large apple, diced

½ cup slivered almonds

½ cup shredded low-fat cheddar cheese

⅔ cup fresh or frozen cranberries, sliced in half

½ cup raisins

DRESSING

¼ cup water

1 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt

⅛ tsp salt

⅛ tsp pepper

To prepare the salad, in a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, bacon bits, diced apple, almonds, shredded cheese, cranberries, and raisins. To make the dressing, in a separate bowl, whisk together the water, Greek yogurt, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Note: This broccoli salad offers a delicious mix of textures and flavors, perfect for a refreshing side dish.

Parmesan Asparagus

A light and crispy side dish with seasoned Parmesan bread crumbs.

YIELD: 8 SERVINGS

2 lbs. asparagus, rinsed and trimmed

1 Tbsp olive oil

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

¼ cup whole wheat panko bread crumbs

½ tsp onion powder

¼ tsp paprika

Preheat oven to 350° F. Arrange the asparagus in a large baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Roast for 15-20 minutes, until tender. Add topping and finish baking. While roasting, mix together the panko bread crumbs, paprika, onion powder and Parmesan cheese. Remove asparagus from the oven and sprinkle with the seasoned bread crumbs. Return to the oven for 5 more minutes or until the crumbs are lightly browned. Serve warm.

Note: parmesan asparagus is a perfect, light side dish with a satisfying crunch.

Sweet Potato Casserole

A nutritious, flavorful side dish featuring the natural sweetness of cranberries and a crunchy oat topping.

YIELD: 12 ½-CUP SERVINGS

SWEET POTATOES

4 lbs. sweet potatoes, baked, peeled and mashed

3 large eggs

1½ tsp salt

½ cup dried cranberries

1½ tsp vanilla extract

WALNUT TOPPING

¼ cup walnuts, chopped

½ cup quick oats

¼ cup packed brown sugar

1½ Tbsp salted butter, softened

To prepare the sweet potatoes, Preheat oven to 350° F. In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, eggs, salt, dried cranberries, and vanilla extract. Stir until well mixed.

Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased 9x13inch baking dish.

To prepare the topping, in a separate bowl, mix together the walnuts, quick oats, and brown sugar. Add softened butter and stir until crumbly and well combined. Add topping and finish baking, sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture in the baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the casserole reaches an internal temperature of 145° F.

Note: This lightened-up sweet potato casserole is a nutritious addition to any holiday table.

Cottage Cheese Cheesecake

A creamy, lighter twist on classic cheesecake with a graham cracker and oat crust.

YIELD: 12 SLICES

CHEESECAKE CRUST

3.5 oz. graham crackers

1 cup oatmeal or rolled oats

2 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted

2 Tbsp maple syrup

3 Tbsp water

COTTAGE CHEESE CREAM FILLING

1¾ cups 2% cottage cheese

⅓ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt

2 whole eggs

¼ cup honey

⅓ cup all-purpose flour

2 tsp vanilla extract

1½ tsp lemon juice

To prepare the crust, preheat oven to 320° F. Grease the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan with butter or line with parchment paper. In a food processor or blender, pulse the graham crackers, oatmeal, melted butter, and maple syrup until fine crumbs form, resembling wet sand. Press the crust mixture firmly into the prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes.

To make the filling, preheat oven to 350° F . In a food processor or blender, combine the cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, honey, eggs, flour, vanilla extract and lemon juice. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Pour the filling over the baked crust and spread evenly with a spatula. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until set. Allow to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 8 hours before serving. Serve with fresh fruit, jam, or your favorite sauce.

Note: This cottage cheese cheesecake is a lighter alternative to traditional cheesecake, perfect with a fruity topping.

Mineral Wells for the Holidays

by Martin Miron

Many people are drawn to the idea of rest, relaxation and reconnecting with nature during the holiday season. Those looking for a destination that offers more than a typical holiday experience might well consider Mineral Wells, 50 miles west of Fort Worth, as the perfect getaway for Thanksgiving or Christmas. This storied wellness retreat, officially named the Wellness Capital of Texas in 2023, combines natural beauty, rich history and a reputation as a hub for health and relaxation.

Whether planning a weekend escape or an extended holiday stay, Mineral Wells is close enough for a quick trip, yet far enough to feel like a true break from city life. Its naturally mineral-rich waters first gained fame for their healing powers in the late 1800s, when it was known as “The South’s Greatest Health Resort” and a destination “Where America Drinks Its Way to Health.”

The ubiquitous bottled Crazy Water, with high levels of lithium and other minerals, is still a central feature of the town’s identity. Visitors to Mineral Wells can sample the

famous beverage and indulge in spa treatments at the Crazy Water Bath House & Spa for a rejuvenating soak, perfect for unwinding during the holiday season.

The town offers a trove of natural resources that make it ideal for a wellness-focused holiday. including outdoor yoga, guided hikes in the Lake Mineral Wells State Park, bird watching, stargazing and more than 30 miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through stunning terrain not typically found in North Texas.

Adventurers will appreciate the only natural rock-climbing area in the region, while kayakers and canoeists can paddle along scenic waterways such as the Brazos River. The town also boasts three state parks and four lakes, offering ample opportunities for fishing, camping and picnicking.

The downtown area comes alive with twinkling lights, holiday markets and seasonal events. Local artisans offer handmade gifts, perfect as sustainable holiday shopping options. Lodging options run the gamut from cozy inns to boutique hotels, while the recently renovated Crazy Water Hotel, dating to 1921, is not only a place to stay, but also a destination itself, offering retail shops, dining, event spaces and nearby mineral water spas.

The town’s commitment to health and wellness extends to its dining scene. Second Bar + Kitchen, located inside the Crazy Water Hotel, offers fresh, healthy meals with vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Another standout is City Meats & Market, known for its variety of healthy and delicious alternatives. The town is also home to farmers markets where visitors can pick up local produce and artisanal products—perfect for preparing a fresh holiday meal or stocking up on unique, sustainable gifts.

Whether seeking a restorative Thanksgiving weekend with the family or a peaceful Christmas escape, this historic town provides an environment that fosters health, relaxation and connection with nature—focusing on well-being, mindfulness and the joy of spending time with loved ones.

For more information, visit VisitMineralWells.org.

Finding Grace in Hardship

by Marlaina Donato

With the season of gratitude comes an annual flurry of festivities. Many of us feel obligated to show up at the table when we might prefer retreating into a corner of solitude. Finding a shred of gratitude may feel like an obligatory or even impossible feat if we are buckling beneath the weight of personal problems. Well-meaning loved ones might point out the blessings in our lives, and it is easy to be snared into feeling guilty if we cannot appreciate the good.

Being thankful for crumbs when we have been denied a feast might seem a task reserved for saints, but simply having faith in an hour of plenty that is yet to come can soften the sharp edge of our hunger. Feeling gratitude for bounty that has not yet arrived, and for all that is on its way to us in its rightful season, provides us with an opportunity to see the light beyond the shadow. According to the Buddhist proverb, “Enough is a feast.”

Seeing “enough” on the table, in the mirror, in each other and in each day is a spiritual practice worth cultivating. Reaching beyond our comfort zone by loving others when we do not feel loved or supporting someone else when we feel less-than can bring us closer to all that is slightly out of reach. Taking time to

observe nature’s complex patterns—fractals within flowers, textures of trees or the edible geometry of a cauliflower—reminds us that we, too, are part of the universal order.

Finding fragments of beauty along the wayside—a child’s pure laugh, the drop of sweet honey left on the spoon or a bird’s wing reflecting the morning light—invites us to look beyond the chaotic, current chapter to see the bigger story. Choosing to remember that all chapters come to a close can help us decide what we want to write in the next one.

Marlaina Donato is an author, composer and painter. Connect at BluefireStudio.art.

Feeling gratitude for bounty that has not yet arrived, and for all that is on its way to us in its rightful season, provides us with an opportunity to see the light beyond the shadow.

Green Gadgets for the Home

Smart Choices to Save Money and Preserve Resources

by Deborah Bevilacqua

Many consumers are taking personal action to benefit the environment, such as reducing consumption, altering eating practices and modifying travel. In response to consumer demand, technology and product companies are creating new offerings to reduce carbon footprints, protect the planet and safeguard the environment for future generations. Here is a look at some of those products and technologies.

Dryer Balls: When dropped into the dryer, these spiky rubber balls separate clothes to expedite drying and keep them soft. Because they are reusable, they save money and replace the need for dryer sheets that are made from non-woven polyester and coated with liquid softeners, fragrance and, in some cases, volatile organic compounds. Eliminating dryer-sheet use reduces the release of microplastics and waste to landfills and waterways.

Hand-Powered Shredders: With a twist of the wrist, documents containing confidential and personal information can be destroyed while conserving energy.

Smart Control Plugs: According to Honeywell, about 25 percent of energy usage in a building comes from plugged-in electronics that sap energy when not in use. Smart plugs and power strips can detect when a plugged-in device is not in use and shut off its power or can be set to turn off using a timer, saving energy and

money. They also provide energy monitoring features that allow users to track their energy consumption and identify high-energy-consuming devices.

Solar-Powered Device Chargers: Solar power used in portable chargers provides energy on the go. It also can be built into devices such as wireless speakers, laptop computer cases and other small electronics, eliminating the need to plug a charger into an outlet or use disposable batteries.

Green Navigation: Global positioning systems (GPS) units are being upgraded to not only help drivers get from point A to B and

avoid traffic, but also to provide the most fuel-efficient routes.

Smart Thermostats: These devices allow home or office temperatures to be set remotely from a smartphone app that tracks user preferences and energy usage, allowing people to reduce their heating and cooling bills. Smart thermostat producer ecobee estimates that its products save more than 26 percent on energy costs compared to simply setting a fixed temperature of 72° F.

Solar Water Heaters: While initially more costly to purchase and install, solar water heating systems can benefit the planet and

the pocketbook for years. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that they can reduce water heating bills by 50 to 80 percent and protect homeowners from fuel shortages and price hikes.

Green Living Apps: A growing list of phone apps help people live more sustainably, such as Too Good To Go and Olio for sharing surplus food; the Ecosia search engine that applies a portion of their profits to planting trees; Ailuna and AWorld, which help users form long-lasting eco-friendly habits; and HappyCow to locate vegetarian and vegan restaurants.

Water Monitors: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that undetected water leaks in the average household waste approximately 10,000 gallons of water annually. Installing a water monitoring system uses ultrasonic sensors to find leaks.

Energy-Saving Televisions: ENERGY STAR certification is not just for refrigerators and dryers. These TVs are 25 percent more efficient than conventional models and include the industry’s most popular features.

Greener Smartphones: Although obligatory in today’s world, smartphones come with an environmental cost. When upgrading to the next model, look for brands that use recycled materials, support responsible mining, and recycle and repair their products.

Electric Transportation: Using electric bikes and scooters around town reduces the need for cars and public transportation, and reduces traffic congestion and pollution. Remember to wear a helmet while operating these zero-emission alternatives that cut costs and the rider’s carbon footprint.

Kitchen Composter: The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates food loss and waste at the retail and consumer levels to be more than 30 percent. Kitchen composters turn

that waste into nutrient-rich compost for the garden by grinding and drying it. These appliances use activated charcoal filters to eliminate odors and sensors to monitor temperature, moisture and oxygen levels to optimize microbial activity and decomposition.

Deborah Bevilacqua is a regular contributor to Natural Awakenings.

WISE TRADITIONS IN FOOD, FARMING AND THE HEALING ARTS

The Weston A. Price Foundation teaches about healthy foods of the past and how to incorporate them in the present. We explain the science of why certain foods are healthy, where to get them and how to prepare them.

Request a free copy of our 28-page booklet about Dr. Weston A. Price’s research:

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Here are a few spots that might have what eco-conscious consumers are looking for in Collin, Dallas, Denton and Rockwall counties.

n Whole Foods Market: Known for their eco-friendly product range, including gadgets.

n REI: Great for eco-conscious outdoor gear and gadgets.

n The Zero Market in Dallas: Specializes in sustainable and zero-waste products.

n Earthwise: Eco-friendly store in Denton offering sustainable gadgets and home products.

n Whole Earth Provision Co.: a great place to find eco-friendly gadgets and outdoor gear. Store located at 5400 East Mockingbird Lane, Dallas.

Benefits of Compression Therapy

Improving Lymphatic Circulation for Better Health and Fitness

by Maya Whitman

Adequate cardiovascular and lymphatic circulation is key for all matters of well-being, including heart health, wound healing, fluid balance and muscle recovery after a workout. To address circulation issues, the advent of compression therapy began as early as 1950 with the invention of compression socks by German engineer and varicose vein sufferer Conrad Jobst. Today, the use of compression gear in the form of boots, leggings, sleeves, bandages, wraps and suits

is surging in athletics, as well as physical therapy. In medical settings, the Cleveland Clinic recommends the use of compression bandages, stockings and inflatable wraps to treat swelling and pain in patients experiencing the poor circulation that is often associated with conditions ranging from pregnancy to diabetes and congestive heart failure.

According to market research company SNS Insider, the global compression ther-

Sergey Ryzhov /Shutterstock

apy market—driven not only by athletic demand but also by the rising occurrence of diabetes, lymphedema, varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis in an aging population—is predicted to expand to $7.86 billion by 2032.

Lymphedema and Diabetic Swelling

The lymphatic system is a network of organs, vessels and tissues that work in conjunction with the circulatory system to maintain healthy fluid levels, filter out waste products and abnormal cells, help the body absorb fats and support the immune system. “It is like the body’s waste-water treatment system,” explains Brittany Curwen, a certified lymphedema therapist and registered occupational therapist at Therapy Achievements, in Decatur, Alabama. “Compression helps keep the right amount of pressure on the blood vessels to make sure the valves inside the veins work in one direction, so blood and lymphatic fluid gets where it needs to go.”

Inflammatory response is normal during the healing process, but when the lymph vessels are unable to drain, lymph fluid in an arm, leg or other body part may cause painful swelling called lymphedema. This condition is commonly caused by cancer, radiation treatments, surgery and, in developing countries, parasites. “After surgery, a light elastic compression garment worn

during the daytime hours can help [treat lymphedema]. For someone without a history of lymphedema, a garment that applies 10 to 15 millimeters of mercury (mmHg) of pressure can help. These are often found at drugstores or online,” says Curwen, noting that such garments can be worn for several weeks during waking hours until the swelling subsides and normal activity is resumed. “For someone with more severe swelling, a medical-grade garment is essential to prevent the lymphedema from progressing and causing changes in the skin texture. A medical-grade garment should be prescribed by a physician.”

Swelling is a common occurrence when diabetes is accompanied by other diseases that impact circulation, such as cardiovascular disease or kidney disease, which can promote pooling of fluid in the legs and feet. A 2023 meta-review published in International Wound Journal found sustained graduated compression to be useful in healing diabetic-related leg sores from pooled blood.

Active Lifestyles

While hitting the gym or going for a long hike does a body good, most people want to avoid post-workout discomfort, and that is where compression clothing

can help. By applying pressure to specific body parts, this clothing improves circulation and ultimately supports muscle recovery. “After intense physical activity, lactic acid is produced as a byproduct of anaerobic respiration, which occurs when your muscles need more energy than your body can supply through oxygen alone,” explains Tabitha Eaves, owner of Rise Up

Compression helps keep the right amount of pressure on the blood vessels to make sure the valves inside the veins work in one direction, so blood and lymphatic fluid gets where it needs to go.

Wellness, in Bloomfield, Michigan. “Lactic acid buildup can lead to muscle fatigue and soreness during and after exercise. The recovery process involves the body clearing out this lactic acid and other metabolic waste products, which helps to reduce muscle soreness, inflammation and swelling, speeding up the overall recovery time.”

A

2021 study published in BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation involving

mostly endurance athletes—predominately runners—reported that compression garments were worn on their lower extremities to prevent injury or reduce symptoms of a current injury, and users perceived a faster post-exercise recovery (more than 80 percent), as well as improved sports performance (more than 70 percent).

Eaves specializes in Normatec compression therapy, which uses air to apply pressure to a body part, thereby mimicking a natural muscle-pump action. She suggests that this type of pneumatic compression typically can be used three to four times a week. Some athletes employ it daily, especially during periods of intense training. She adds, “Post-therapy, most users report feeling relaxed, with some experiencing a slight tingling sensation as circulation increases.”

While compression therapy is generally safe for most people, Curwen cautions anyone with peripheral artery disease, congestive heart failure, advanced kidney disease or unmanaged high blood pressure to obtain a physician’s approval before using compression therapy or compression garments.

Maya Whitman is a regular contributor to Natural Awakenings.

Calendar of Events

Friday, November 1

Women in the Environment: Goodwill Recycling Tour – 9:30am-1pm. Discover how Goodwill North Central Texas promotes recycling. Event includes a tour, lunch, and meet-and-greet. Goodwill, 4005 Campus Dr, Fort Worth. Free. RSVP by Oct. 25. bit.ly/3NJSdEU.

Saturday, November 2

Bison Day at Fort Worth Nature Center – 9am. Family-friendly activities include bison hikes, meet and greets, and educational talks on bison history. Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge, 9601 Fossil Ridge Rd, Fort Worth. Program fees apply. .fwnaturecenter.org/

Tarrant County Master Gardener Association: Arbor Day in the Garden. 10am2pm. Free trees, gift giveaways, refreshments, and a guided garden tour. Learn about local trees and meet a Citizen Forester. Resource Connection, Birdie Big Year: Elevating Women Birders – 10am. Event features Tiffany Kerstan, a professional bird guide, discussing women’s impact in birding. Coffee and refreshments served at 9:30am. UNT Health & Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd, RES Bldg, Room 100, Fort Worth. Free. tarrantmg.org.

Sunday, November 3

Chefs For Farmers Main Event – 3-6pm. Dallas’ premier food and wine festival, featuring top chefs, unlimited food, wine, music, and entertainment. Old City Park, 1515 S Harwood St, Dallas. $145, 21+ only. .chefsforfarmers.com/dallas-festival

Wednesday, November 6

Anu Kri Healing Service – 7-9pm. Experience a new energy healing method aimed at reducing physical pain and phobias with Dr. Tricia Seymour and Dr. Rusty Barrier. Entelechea Center, 1201

Ongoing Events

Sundays

Carrollton Runners Club Mile + 5K –7:30am. A low-key 5K and 1-mile race every last Sun. McInnish Park, 2335 Sandy Lake Rd, Carrollton. CarrolltonRunners.com.

Sunday Service/Meditation and Purification – 9-11:30am. Participate in meditation, chanting and readings from the Bible and Bhagavad Gita. 9-9:45am, Meditation and Purification; 10-11:30am, Service. Ananda Dallas Meditation & Yoga Center, 4901 Keller Springs Rd, Ste 103, Addison. 972-2489126. AnandaDallas.org.

Gentle Waves – 9:15-10:15am. A healing meditative practice that moves very slow and intentional. Gaia Flow Yoga, 3000 Blackburn St, Ste 140B, Dallas. Register: GaiaFlowYoga.com.

International Pkwy, Ste 200, Richardson. $20 suggested donation. 972-792-9900. entelechea.org

Friday, November 8

Tianyu Lights Festival Dallas – 5:30pm, 7pm, 8:30pm. Run through Jan 2025. Explore “Koda’s Adventure to the Magical Forest” with illuminated art, live music, dance, and unique marketplace finds. Texas Trust Festival Grounds, 1001 Texas Trust Way, Grand Prairie. For tickets and parking info visit. tianyuculture.us/dallas

Saturday, November 9

Birdie Big Year: Elevating Women Birders – 10am. Event features Tiffany Kerstan, a professional bird guide, discussing women’s impact in birding. Coffee and refreshments served at 9:30am. UNT Health & Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd, RES Bldg, Room 100, Fort Worth. Free. fwas.org

Jollof Festival Dallas – 3-8pm. Celebrate West Africa’s iconic Jollof rice with tastings, cultural performances, and a Jollof cooking competition. Dallas, TX. Tickets available online.at jolloffestival.com.

The Boho Market at The Hill – 9am2pm. Shop unique, one-of-a-kind goods from small and local vendors in this family- and pet-friendly open-air market. The Hill Shopping Center, 8041 Walnut Hill Ln, Dallas. Free admission and parking. thebohomarketco.com.

Thursday, November 14

5D Living – 7-9pm. Dr. Rusty Barrier leads a session on achieving 5D awareness and shifting from 3D to 5D behaviors, focusing on raising consciousness and identifying limiting beliefs. Entelechea Center, 1201 International Pkwy, Ste 200, Richardson. $20 suggested donation. 972-792-9900. entelechea.org.

Friday, November 15

The Joy of Daleth Breathwork – 7-9pm. Dr. Rusty Barrier and Dr. Tricia Seymour guide transformational breathwork for inner connection through breath, music, and meditation. Entelechea Center, 1201 International Pkwy, Ste 200, Richardson. $20. 972-792-9900. entelechea.org.

Sunday, November 17

Nature Connection Walks: Natural Grocers: DIY Body Care for Every Body – 1-2pm. Scrub your skin-care routine. Learn how to make fun, easy alternatives using oils, foods and everyday ingredients. Free. Fort Worth Public Library - East Regional, 6301 Bridge St, Fort Worth. 817-392-5550..

Walk The Bridge – 3pm. Join the monthly walk across “Heroes Bridge” to honor veterans and first responders while raising mental health awareness and suicide prevention efforts. Hwy 66 Bridge, Rockwall Boat Ramp, 1120 W Rusk St, Rockwall. Hosted by Third Watch LE MC. walkthebridge.org.

Wednesday, November 20

Grow Educational, Agriculturally Based Tourism – 6:30-8pm. Delve into entrepreneurship. Learn how Delve Experiences connects travelers and local residents with meaningful experiences, helping farms and producers access broader tourism markets. Free. Fort Worth Public Library - East Regional, 6301 Bridge St, Fort Worth. 817-392-5550.

Tuesday, November 26

River Legacy Center Backyard Meteorology – 10am-12pm. Discover the science of weather, meteorological tools, and methods usediver Legacy center to predict weather patterns. River Legacy Nature Center, 703 NW Green Oaks Blvd, Arlington. $25.riverlegacy.org.

Celebration Service Live – 11am. Meditation, music and lessons on YouTube live: Unity on Greenville Dallas, TX or Cutt.ly/2tzQx4i. Love offering. Unity on Greenville, 3425 Greenville Ave, Dallas. 214-826-5683. DallasUnity.org.

Dallas Shambhala Meditation Center Weekly Meditation – 11am-1:15pm. Each Sunday, we offer a free meditation, tea and dharma talk session in-person and via Zoom. All welcome. Free. Dallas Shambhala Meditation Center, 2695 Villa Creek Dr, Ste B146, Farmers Branch. Dallas.Shambhala. org.

Sunday Meditation – 3:15-4:15pm. With Lynne Patterson. Class offers many meditation techniques and styles, with a focus on mindfulness and open awareness. $10. Yoga Mart, 2201 Tucker St, Ste 101, Dallas. 214-238-2433. DallasMeditates.com.

Online: Awakening Heart Meditation – 5-7pm. Interfaith mindfulness meditation, music and message based on the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh. Facilitated by Brother ChiSing. Donation accepted. Dallas Meditation Center, 727 S Floyd Rd, Richardson. 972-4327871. DallasMeditationCenter.com.

Mondays

Online: Zen to Go – 12-12:45pm. MonThurs. An oasis in the middle of the day offering walking and sitting meditation followed by brief sharing. Donation accepted. Dallas Meditation Center, 810 We Arapaho Rd, Ste 98, Richardson. 972432-7871. DallasMeditationCenter.com.

Meditation Mondays via Zoom –7-8pm. Meditation Mondays focuses on the practice and the experience of

various forms of meditation. Free. Unity of Dallas, 6525 Forest Ln, Dallas. 972-233-7106. UnityDallas.org.

Tuesdays

Online: Ananda Yoga Sadhana Practice – 5:15-7:30pm. Also Thurs. Time to recalibrate and center through this transformational practice based on the yoga teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda. Ananda Dallas Meditation & Yoga Center, 4901 Keller Springs Rd, Ste 103, Addison. 972-248-9126. AnandaDallas.org.

YES: A Young Adults Meditation Fellowship – 7-9pm. A meditation series for young adults in their 20s and 30s. Each evening will include a beginner-friendly walking and sitting meditation, Dharma teachings and refreshments afterwards. Donation. Dallas Meditation Center, 810 W Arapaho Rd, Ste 98, Richardson. 972-432-7871. DallasMeditationCenter.com.

Wednesdays

Hot Yoga 201 on Zoom – 6:15pm. Open to all levels. This flowing-style class links the fundamental asanas (poses) of yoga linking body, mind and breath with music. Yoga4Love Studio Cabin, Ovilla. Yoga4Love. com.

Online: Meditation for Everyone – 7-8:30pm. Classes are great for beginners that want to learn to meditate and great for more experienced meditators that want to expand their meditation. Must register: MeditationInTexas.org.

Online: Metaphysics and Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Manifestation and mysticism: 2 sides of the spiritual coin. Let us practice together, while diving more deeply into universal principles and spiritual living. Open to all. Free. A Center for Spiritual Living, 4801 Spring Valley Rd, Ste 115, Dallas. 972-866-9988. CSLDallas.org.

Thursdays

ImpactNights – More info: Inclusive-Economy.org/impactnights.

Online: Celebrate Recovery –

Whole Health Approaches to Women’s Infertility

by Dr. Susan Fox, DACM, LAc., FABORM

For many couples, starting a family marks a beautiful chapter of life. However, the path is not always straightforward for everyone. Tackling infertility can be an emotional rollercoaster, with emotions ranging from hope to heartache.

For women, the causes of infertility may range from health conditions like hormonal imbalances, ovarian dysfunction and endometriosis; and lifestyle causes such as poor diet, exposure to environmental toxins and weight management; to emotional and mental causes including anxiety, depression, stress and trauma.

Understanding the root causes of infertility is crucial; it’s about unraveling the complex web of underlying issues. In addition to standard blood tests, there are new functional medicine tests for finding the root causes of infertility challenges, including a comprehensive assessment of hormonal imbalances, a test to assess microbiome and detect gastrointestinal pathogens, and a test that provides both insights into nutritional deficiencies and guidance on diet and supplementation.

Research indicates that obesity makes it harder to conceive and leads to more miscarriages. Being underweight increases the risk of ovulatory disorder. A functional medicine or integrative health approach includes managing diet and improving nutrition that also works to balance hormones and microbiomes.

Lifestyle habits like smoking and alcohol and caffeine consumption are also addressed.

A mother’s toxic load can be passed to an unborn child through the umbilical cord. Detoxification prior to trying to conceive can improve not only the mother’s whole health, but her fertile health and the health of her baby.

While not fully understood, research has indicated a correlation between increased stress and decreased likelihood of egg fertilization. Incorporating exercise and mindfulness practices such as meditation and yoga is part of a comprehensive approach to creating the ideal environment for a healthy pregnancy and delivery.

Susan Fox is a Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine in Marin County, California, and has specialized in working with women and couples navigating fertility challenge for more than 20 years. Connect at HealthYouniversity.co and DrSusanFox.com.

There is hope! Learn more, access valuable resources today, and get your COMPLIMENTARY ACCESS PASS for the very special January 20-25 fertility immersive event. Scan the QR Code.

Denton-Collin-Grayson-Cooke counties

6:30pm. A safe community to find support, hope and freedom from the struggles and realities that we all face through transitions, hurt, pain, loss or addiction of any kind. Free. First United Methodist Church, 777 N Walnut Creek Dr, Mansfield. FirstMethodistMansfield.org.

Fridays

Online: Friday Meditation Happy Hours – 5:30-6:15pm. Sessions begin every hour. Release stress with breath and gentle movements as you withdraw from the external and begin the journey within 15-min guided meditation. $10/session. DallasMeditates.com.

Saturdays

Morning Bird Walk – 7:30-8:15pm. 3rd

Calendar of Events

Saturday, November 2

Avian Artistry. First Saturday at Blackland Prairie Raptor Center –9am-12pm. Enjoy family-friendly activities, games, live raptor program, food trucks, and local vendor crafts. Blackland Prairie Raptor Center, 1625 Brockdale Park Dr, Lucas. Free admission, donations welcome. 469-964-9696. bpraptorCenter.org.

Friday, November 8

Dinosaurs Live! – 9am-5pm. Journey through time on a nature trail featuring life-sized animatronic dinosaurs like a 46-foot T-Rex. Fun, educational experience for families and friends. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Pl, McKinney. $0$15, free for members. 972-562-5566. heardmuseum.org.

Saturday, November 9

Aromatherapy Ayurveda Workshop – 2-4pm. Discover Ayurveda’s use of essential oils to balance chakras and ersonalize wellness based on body type. Sukhveda Ayurvedic Wellness Center, 7000 Parkwood Blvd, Ste C200, Frisco. 972-489-5508. tinyurl.com/42n93dfy)

Texas Recycles Day – 8:30am-12pm. Annual drive-through, drop-off event for donating household items to local non-profits. Hundreds of residents attend, benefiting thousands by reusing

Sat. Join Trinity River Audubon Center for a monthly bird walk and enjoy the grounds and our amazing feathered friends. $10. Trinity River Audubon Center, 6500 Great Trinity Forest Way, Dallas. Registration required: TrinityRiver. Audubon.org.

Coppell Farmers Market – 8am-12pm. Year-round market. 768 W Main St, Coppell. CoppellFarmersMarket.org.

Morning Tai Chi – 8:30am. Join Tai Chi

Chuan instructor George Deerfield for this interactive class in developing strength, balance, improved breathing. Unity of Dallas, 6525 Forest Ln, Dallas.

UnityDallas.org.

Second Saturday Guided Hike – 8:309:30am. Learn about our surrounding habitat while you enjoy a hike. All ages. Trinity River Audubon Center, 6500 Great Trinity Forest Way, Dallas. Registration required: TrinityRiver.Audubon.org.

Pregnancy, Childbirth, Postpartum and Baby Classes – 6-7pm. Classes are held virtually online lead by our top AID instructors utilizing state of the art visual aids and activities to keep it fun and engaging while presenting the latest evidenced based material on each topic. $35/class. Childbirth-Classes.com.

or recycling items. Free. Chase Oaks Church parking lot, 281 Legacy Drive, Plano.:plano.gov/TRD.

Tuesday, November 12

Green Gift Guide Webinar – 12-1:30pm. Get inspired for holiday gifting. Discover creative handmade items, new technology that conserves resources, and local experiences for a sustainable holiday season. Free. Online. Registration required. LiveGreenInPlano.com.

Thursday, November 14

Roots For Wings Expo – 6-8:30pm. Reconnect with past participants and learn about native plantings and sustainable landscaping. VIP Hour for previous attendees from 6-7pm, open to the public from 7-8:30pm. Free. Thrive, 1950 S Valley Parkway, Lewisville .CityOfLewisville.com.

Friday November 15

Full Moon Hike – 7-8:15pm. Explore animal winter prep under the “Beaver Moon” with a talk and night hike. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Pl, McKinney. Members $12; Non-members $14. heardmuseum.org/night-hikes.

Turkey Talk: Safe Fry and Grease Disposal – 4-5:30pm. Join the Plano Fire Department for fry-up demos, safe frying techniques, and oil disposal tips.

Limited to 50 participants. Free. Plano Fire Department Training Facility, 4637 McDermott Road, Plano. LiveGreenInPlano.com.

Saturday, November 16

Nature Connection Walks – 9:30am12pm. Inspired by shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, this guided walk immerses participants in nature through sensory activities along changing trails. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Pl, McKinney. $22.50-$25, members get 10% off. 972562-5566. heardmuseum.org.

Tuesday, November 19

Watere Wise Workshop: Flip Your Flapper - Toilet Repair – 6:30-7:30pm. Celebrate World Toilet Day by fixing old or worn-out toilet flappers. Learn quick and easy water-saving tips. Free. Environmental Education Center, 4116 W. Plano Parkway, Plano. LiveGreenInPlano.com.

Friday, November 22

LightCycles: Glow-in-the-Dark Bike Ride – 7-9pm. Family-friendly glow ride to learn bike safety with the Lewisville Police Department. Bike through Memorial Park with illuminated paths, followed by a vendor party. Memorial Park, 1950 S Valley Pkwy, Lewisville. $10 per rider. Registration required. PlayLewisville.com.

Ongoing Events

Daily

Grapevine Farmers Market  – 9am6pm, Sun; 8am-8pm, Mon-Sat. Eat healthy with locally-grown produce and products. 520 S Main St, Ste 203, Grapevine. 817-527-7446. FarmersMarketOfGrapevine.com.

Sundays

Frisco Fresh Market – 10am-4pm. Also Sat, 8am-4pm. Frisco Fresh Market, 9215 John W Elliott Dr, Frisco. 844-7762753. FriscoFreshMarket.com.

Sunday Celebration Service Agape Center for Spiritual Living – 10am, meditation; 10:30am, service. Noah’s Event Venue, 5280 Town Square Dr, Plano. Rev Lee Wolak: 972-468-1331. AgapeSpiritualCenter.com.

Sunday Worship: Unity Spiritual Center of Denton Service – 10am, coffee; 11am, service. Unity takes spiritual principles and makes them practical in your life. 6071 New Hope Rd, Krugerville. 214453-0218. UnityOfNewHope.org.

Sunday Brunch –10am-3pm. Serves up farm-to-table shared plates, 72 taps (wine & craft beer), and a welcoming atmosphere to create a unique dining experience. Craft & Vine, 310 S Oak St, Roanoke. 817-464-8181. CraftAndVine. Restaurant.

Horizon UU Worship Service – 10:30am12pm. Horizon Unitarian Universalist Church, 1641 W Hebron Pkwy, Carrollton. 972-492-4940. Horizonuu.org.

Mondays

Dairy Farm Tours – Mon-Sat, by appt only. Experience life on a dairy farm with an educational tour including how and what cows are fed, the benefits of grass-crop based feed (silage), the milking parlor, bottle feeding baby calves along with the learning the benefits of drinking raw milk vs pasteurized milk. Everyone gets samples of milk. $7/ person age 2 & up. Circle N Dairy, 2074 County Road 446, Gainesville. 940-3720343. CircleNDairy.com.

Tuesdays

Buddhist Sangha Online – 7-9pm. The meeting of Horizon’s Buddhist covenant group. Meditation and study of the 8-Fold Path. Horizon Unitarian Universalist Church: Horizonuu.org.

Wednesdays

Anu Kri Healing Service – 7-9pm. With Dr. Tricia and Dr. Rusty. Anu (God) Kri (Energy) is a new healing method for the evolution of humanity. Each week we will work with people from the audience. The healing service includes a time for everyone present to participate in healing as we address healing requests people have submitted online and in-person. Free. Entelechea Center, 1201 International Pkwy, Ste 200, Richardson. 972-792-9900. Entelechea.org.

Thursdays

Meditation Practice – 6-6:30pm. With Dr. Tricia and Dr. Rusty. Meditation is a great way to bring more peace into your life, learn to quiet your mind and be more present. Free. Entelechea Center, 1201 International Pkwy, Ste 200, Richardson. 972-792-9900. Entelechea. org.

Mystic Mandala Meditations – 6:307:30pm. Guided by Vijay Moksha. A non-denominational mindfulness practice to evolve consciousness; to go beyond the mind using the mind itself. MysticMandalaCenter.com.

Fridays

The Joy of Daleth Breathwork – 7-9pm. 3rd Fri. With Dr. Tricia and Dr. Rusty. Access more energy, awaken your potential, resolve stress and anxiety, deepen spiritual awareness, gain clarity of purpose and reconnect to your Divine self. $20. Entelechea Center, 1201 International Pkwy, Ste 200, Richardson. 972792-9900. Entelechea.org.

Saturdays

The Little Sit – 6am. 1st Sat. If you want to learn how to identify the birds of North Texas, the Little Sit is the perfect way to start. A group of dedicated birders meet once a month at the end of

Pad H on the West side of Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge. 6465 Refuge Rd, Sherman. 903-786-2826. FriendsOfHagerman.com.

2nd Saturday Bird Walk – 7:30-11:30am. Birders of all skill levels are welcome to join an expert birder as we explore prime birding locations along LLELA’s nature trails. $5/vehicle. Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area, 201 E Jones St, Lewisville. Registration required: llela.org.

2nd Saturday Bird Walk – Sept-June. 8-9:30am. Helps beginning and intermediate birders with bird spotting and identification techniques. Included in general admission; free/Heard Museum members. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Pl, McKinney. 972-562-5566. HeardMuseum.org.

1st Saturday Nature Walks – 10am12pm. Monthly naturalist-led nature walk. Each season at LLELA is different, and we never know what we’ll find. All ages. $5/vehicle. Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area, 201 E Jones St, Lewisville. Registration required: 972-219-3550 or llela.org.

Blackland Prairie Raptor Center First Saturdays – 10am-2pm. Meet raptors up-close. Take guided prairie hikes. Kids activities. Bring a picnic lunch. Blackland Prairie Raptor Center, 1625 Brockdale Park Rd, Lucas. Erich Neupert: 972442-7607. BPRaptorCenter.org.

Dallas-Tarrant-Rockwall counties

community resource guide

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 NAadvertising@NaturalAwakenings.com to request our media kit.

ACUPUNCTURE & INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE

SACRED HEALING ACUPUNCTURE

Kelly Urtiaga, Lac, Dipl. OM 5310 Harvest Hill Rd Ste 135, Dallas SacredHealingAcu.com 214-471-5577

Experience holistic healing at Sacred Healing Acupuncture. Specializing in reproductive health, mental wellness, chronic pain, and micro-needling, we offer acupuncture, cupping, and herbal consultations. Our integrative approach promotes natural balance, well-being, and rejuvenation, providing a sanctuary for your health journey.

ALTERNATIVE WELLNESS VENUES

THE KAVA BARS

14856 Preston Rd #212, Dallas 469-608-5050

109 Industrial St, Denton 940-320-6015

LoveTheKavaBar.com

nights, and special events that make every visit unique. Exerience a different kind of Happy Hour.

BRAIN HEALTH

CERESET PLANO

1033 E 15th St, Plano, 75074 214-892-2273

Plano.Cereset.com

CHIROPRACTIC

NEW STAR CHIROPRACTIC & ACUPUNCTURE

Dr. Zhangping Lu, DC, LAc, MD (China) 425 Maplelawn Dr, Ste 101, Plano 75075 972-519-8488

DFWAcupunctureChiropractic.com

Whole-body wellness center providing chiropractic care, spinal decompression, allergy testing, NAET, IMAET, detoxification, weight loss, hormone balancing, wellness programs and more. All-natural healing, no medication, no surgery.

ECO TOURISM

FOSSIL RIM WILDLIFE CENTER

2299 County Road 2008, Glen Rose 254-897-2960

THE HOCKADAY SCHOOL

11600 Welch Road, Dallas 214- 363-6311

Hockaday.org

Established almost 100 years ago, The Hockaday School provides a college preparatory educa-tion for girls; from pre-kindergarten to 12th grade, including Boarding school for grades 8-12. With an approximate enrollment of 1,000 students and a 10:1 student teacher ratio, Hockaday students enjoy a 100% acceptance rate to college.

JESUIT COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL OF DALLAS

12345 Inwood Rd, Dallas 972-387-8700

JesuitCP.org

Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas is a private Catholic institution for young men under the direction of the Society of Jesus. Located in North Dallas, it provides a student-centered education to approximately 1,000 students, grades 9-12. Our students’ average SAT scores exceed the national average by over 200 points.

abling it to manage stress more effectively. Cereset sessions jump start the process of re-balancing your brain, and can help issues leading to trouble sleeping, restlessness and anxiety, inability to fo cus or lack of joy. Periodic “tune-ups” provide ongoing support, ensuring long-term brain bal ance. See ad on page 9.

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, near Glen Rose, an hour and a half from DFW, is a non-profit conservation center. It’s a haven for endangered species, housing over 1,000 animals from 50 species. Visitors embark on guided or self-guided tours across its 1,800 acres, encountering wildlife up close. Lodging, dining, and educational facilities enhance the experience.

We all carry inside us, people who came before us.

—Miguel Ruiz

EDUCATION

DALLAS COLLEGE

1601 South Lamar, Dallas 214-378-1824 DCCCD.edu

Dallas College has seven campuses, including El Centro, Brookhaven, Mountain View, Eastfield, Richland, Cedar Valley and Northlake. Dallas College serves the region with accredited one and two year certificates, degrees and core credit courses guaranteed to transfer to Texas colleges and universities.

PARKER UNIVERSITY

2540 Walnut Hill Ln, Dallas 75229 800-637-8337/214-902-2429

AskAdmissions@parker.edu Parker.edu

More patients want alternative methods of treatment that are healthy, holistic and non-invasive. Earning your degree from Parker University in Functional Nutrition, Strength and Human Performance, Integrative Health can put you in position to help them. Offering top level experience and accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, the Council on Chiropractic Education, and the Commission of Massage Therapy Accreditation.

ENERGY MEDICINE

Polaraid Health offers the revolutionary PolarAid® body tool, inspired by Nikola Tesla and Dr. Georges Lakhovsky. This device supports overall wellness, including sexual health, weight management, joint flexibility, digestive health, and mental calm. Enhance your well-being with PolarAid®. Visit us to discover more about this innovative health solution.

HEALTH CARE

BAYLOR SCOTT & WHITE HEALTH CARE SYSTEM

1-800-4BAYLOR

BaylorHealth.com/CancerCare

We have a network of comprehensive cancer treatment centers throughout Dallas-Fort Worth, offering full range cancer-related and integrative medical services. Whether you want to learn about types of cancer, screenings, prevention, healthy living or support, Baylor is here for you. We offer the experience, expertise and technology you can trust.

PRIMACARE

13 Locations in Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

888-286-4603

PrimaCare.com

With 13 Urgent Care Centers, PrimaCare serves the medical needs of area families with courtesy, convenience and compassion. Open 7 days a week with extended hours. No appointment necessary. Most insurance accepted. Use our Call Ahead Service and wait where your want. Open: Monday–Friday 8am-8pm, Saturday–Sunday 8am–5pm.

HERBAL MEDICINE

ACN HERBS AND GREEN TEA LESLIE DUONG

9788 Walnut Street, Suite 108 214-987-8866

ACNHerbs.com

Trained Herbalist, Leslie Duong specializes in traditional herbal remedies and green tea. With over 25 years of experience, she offers personalized herbal consultations, organic herbal medicines, and a wide selection of premium green teas. Committed to natural healing and wellness through high-quality, safe, and effective herbal products. See ad, page 6.

EARTH AND SEA WELLNESS

Khadijah Karriem Earth and Sea Wellness EarthAndSeaWellness.com 469-684-9591

With over 30 yrs. experience in herbs and nutrition, Khadijah Karriem is the founder and CEO of Earth Sea Wellness, which specializes in 100% pure raw organic products from the earth and sea. Whether it's wild crafted sea moss gels, medicinal teas and tonics, skincare or body care. Earth and sea wellness is your one stop for all your wellness needs. See ad, page 25.

HOLISTIC DENTISTRY

FLOURISH DENTAL BOUTIQUE

Dr. Toni Engram

415 State St #800, Richardson 75082 469-676-2777

Flourish.dental

At Flourish Dental Boutique, we believe the best dentistry is often the least dentistry. We help your body thrive on its own with therapies that enrich and empower its natural healing processes. As a holistic and biological dental practice, we choose safe materials and treatment protocols with special attention to your nutrition and overall wellness. See ad, page 11.

KOZLOW & ROWELL

Dr. Philip Kozlow

Dr. Josh Rowell

5050 Quorum Dr, Suite 300, Dallas 972-458-2464

DallasDentist.net

We strive to provide healthy, green alternatives for our dental patients by providing digital X-rays, mercury safe restorative options and chemical free dental hygiene products. Committed to total body wellness while avoiding the use of toxic materials, and continuing education to ensure treatments are up to date and effective in a kind and caring environment. See ad, page 23.

LYNN DENTAL CARE

Dr. D. Brock Lynn 6190 LBJ Freeway #900, Dallas 972-934-1400

LynnDentalCare.com

Practicing dentistry for over 38 years, specializing in periodontics, Dr. Lynn is board-certified and a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontics and Dental implants. He practices dentistry with a holistic approach and is a member of the International Academy of Oral Medicine &Toxicology as well as the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health. See ad, inside front cover.

HOMEOPATHY

HEALTHY HEALING ARTS/HPWWC

Cathy May Lemmon, Ph.D. Hom, LCPH, BA 469-383-8442

Cathy@HPWWC.org

HealthyHealingArts.com

Homeoprophylaxis (HP), a part of Homeopathy, is a major part of Cathy Lemmon’s practice at Healthy Healing Arts. HP has been used worldwide for hundreds of years with a success rate of over 90% to help fight off disease. Lemmon uses an energetic, nontoxic means of promoting immunity in a safe and natural way.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICAL

DR. CARLOS CHAPA, ND, OMD, L.AC, PH.D

1320 W. Walnut Hill Ln, Irving 18601 LBJ #501, Mesquite 972-444-0660

DrChapa.com

Trained in Asia, graduated from a Korean University, Dr. Chapa holds a Naturopathic Doctorate Degree and a PhD in Eastern Medicine specializing in Neurological issues. A former medic/nurse since 1995, this unique training has given confidence from many Physicians to refer their patients. Dr. Chapa is founder and medical director of AIMC established in 2009.

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH CENTER DALLAS

Dr. Elizabeth Seymour, MD 399 Melrose Dr., Suite A, Richardson 214-368-4132

EHCD.COM

A nationally recognized medical facility specializing in the relationship of health and disease to environmental factors. Thorough investigation is made to determine the cause and correlation of the patent’s disease process to environmental factors. A leader in the field treating mold exposure/sensitivity; oil spill, pesticides and chemical exposure; chemical sensitivities, immune dysregulation and much more.

JOHNSON MEDICAL ASSOCIATES

Dr. Alfred R. Johnson, D.O. 997 Hampshire Lane, Richardson 972-479-0400

JohnsonMedicalAssociates.com

Johnson Medical Associates is a state-of-the-art medical clinic offering comprehensive medical services aimed at finding the cause not just treating the symptoms. Dr. Johnson is a doctor of internal medicine with 35+ years of experience in areas of chronic illness, toxic exposures, allergies and the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy to address a multitude of conditions. See ad, page 11.

TENNANT INSTITUTE FOR INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE

Dr. Jerry Tennant MD, Medical Director 35 Veranda Lane, Ste 100, Colleyville 972-580-1156

TennantInstitute.us

Providing traditional “standard-ofcare” medicine using prescription as well as complementary medicine. Recognizing that the human body is not simply a collection of independent parts but rather an integrative whole -we treat it that way. Conditions treated include chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, macular degeneration and glaucoma, as well as thyroid support, adrenal support, hormone replacement. essential oil therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

WILLOWBEND HEALTH & WELLNESS

Dr. Phyllis Gee, MD 4601 Old Shepard Pl, Bldg. 2, Ste. 201, Plano 469-361-4000

WillowbendHealthAndWellness.com

With 30 years of practice, empowerment and whole health are centerpieces of our care. Our goal is finding and treating the root cause of your symptoms to restore your health utilizing regenerative medical practices. We address functional wellness, sexual wellness, weight management. We do functional health testing. Call for appointment. See ad on page 13.

LONGEVITY MEDICINE

DR. JEFFREY GLADDEN, MD 16633 Dallas Pkwy #100, Addison 972-310-8916

GladdenLongevity.COM

Board certified in Interventional Cardiology. Dr. Gladden specializes in age management, regenerative medicine, and personalized health optimization. With over 30 years of experience, he offers advanced therapies including stem cell treatments, hormone optimization, and functional medicine. Dedicated to maximizing longevity and healthspan for his patients. Author of 100 is the New 30

MASSAGE

THAI MASSAGE

Suzanne Miller, LMT, CYT, APP 670 W Arapaho Rd, Ste 12a, Richardson 972-768-2210

TexasThai.massagetherapy.com

Suzmil.livingbalanced@gmail.com

Thai Massage is a unique combination of stretching, acupressure, massage and energy work. Benefits include: reduced muscle tension, improved flexibility, increased circulation and relaxation. With 23 years' experience, Suzanne welcomes the opportunity to be a part of your health journey.

PAIN MANAGEMENT

SENERGY MEDICAL GROUP

9901 Valley Ranch Pkwy East, Ste 1009 Irving 972-580-0545

Biomodulator@senergy.us Senergy.us

We are the exclusive distributor of the patented Tennant Biomodulator® PLUS & PRO. These FDA accepted non-invasive devices are designed to offer an affordable, drug free, user-friendly option for the indicated use of symptomatic relief for chronic, severe or intractable pain; and adjunctive treatment in managing post-surgical and post-traumatic pain.

PASTUERED MEATS

BOIS D'ARC MEAT COMPANY

13849 E. FM 1396, Windom, TX BoisDdarcMeatCo.com 617-314-1349

Bois D'arc Meat Company provides high-quality, locally-sourced meats. All our cattle, pigs, chickens and turkeys are raised entirely on pasture, are 100% non-GMO and no herbicides, pesticides or chemicals are applied to the land. We offer a variety of cuts and custom butchering services to meet all your needs. Visit us for the finest meats.

PHARMACY

ABRAMS ROYAL COMPOUNDING PHARMACY

8220 Abrams Rd, Dallas 214-349-8000 4904 W. Park Blvd, Plano 972-599-7700 ARP-RX.com

Family owned and operated since 1980, with more than 135 years of combined experience. Our pharmacists work to provide proactive solutions to restore health and wellness. We work as trusted partners with physicians and patients to develop targeted treatment plans and customized wellness programs for your unique needs. Pharmacy Compounding. Accreditation Board (PACB) certified. PSY CHTHE

RESTAURANTS

CELEBRATION RESTAURANT 4503 West Lovers Lane, Dallas 214-351-5681 CelebrationRestaurant.com Food You Can Feel Good About!

free al-

SPIRITUAL

CONCORD DALLAS CHURCH

6808 Pastor Bailey Dr, Dallas 214-331-8522

ConcordDallas.tv

Concord Dallas is the church that grows people. Their core values are passion for Christ, passion for people and catalyst for change. Services are Sundays at 8:00am, 10:00am, 12:00pm and online at Streamingfaith.com. Mid-week service is Wednesdays at 7:00pm. Reverend Bryan L. Carter, Senior Pastor.

UNITY CHURCH OF SACHSE

5502 Ben Davis, Sachse 972-984-8946

UnityOfSachse@gmail.com

UnityOfSachse.com

We teach positive psychology based on Spiritual teachings of Jesus. Services are held Sundays at 11:30am. Join us as we share truths and principles to help along your spiritual journey. Each week’s message and all events are posted on our website for your convenience. Spiritual counseling and positive prayer available.

SUPPLEMENTS AND NUTRITION

TOTAL NUTRITION & CBD

5706 E Mockingbird Ln, Dallas, TX 75206 469-334-0006

TotalNutritionMockingbird.com

Discover the power of natural wellness through our wide selec-

tion of premium vitamins, supplements, bodybuilding products and CBD products including chocolates, pain cream, flowers+ cryotherapy. Family owned and operated, our expert staff provides personalized guidance to support pain relief, stress management, and overall health. Elevate your well-being with high-quality, lab-tested solutions tailored to your individual needs.

THERMOGRAPHY THERMOGRAPHY

THERMOGRAPY CENTER OF DALLAS 5220 Spring Valley Rd #LL-40, Dallas ThermographyCenter.com 214-352-8758

All symptoms have an origin story and we get to the root of yours. Using radiation-free technology we can identify your symptom’s origin story and exactly what needs to change internally and how it will remedy your symptoms. We then recommend medical grade natural products to help you heal the root cause easily and organically. See ad, page 5.

WELLNESS CENTERS

ROCKWALL COMPLETE HEALING & WELLNESS

2455 Ridge Road, Suite 151, Rockwall 972-771-8900

RockwallColonics.com

“Our goal is to offer our community high-quality wellness services in an exceptionally comfortable and healing environment. We know that time-honored healing traditions-Massage, Young Living Raindrop Therapy, Chiropractic, iV therapy, Juicing and Colonics work. RCW offers all of these things, come visit us and begin your journey to optimum wellness. See ad, page 23.

YOGA

CRESCENT YOGA STUDIO & ECO-BOUTIQUE

Dawn Harris, RYT500 306 W Ave F, Midlothian 214-817-8597

CrescentYogaStudio.com

2024 Editorial Calendar

July | Keeping It Cool

August | Finding Your Tribe

Ellis county’s premier yoga studio and eco-boutique offers a variety of weekly classes, specialty workshops, private yoga and reiki sessions as well as natural health and wellness events. Come feel your stress and tensions away. New student intro offer: 2 weeks unlimited Yoga for $20. Empowering a healthy lifestyle. January | Health & Wellness February | Heart-Healthy Lifestyle March | Food & Nutrition

September | Emotional Healing

and

and

grass fed beef. Come in today, order in or take-out. See ad on back cover.

April | Eco-Travel

May | Women’s Wellness

June | Men’s Health

October | Whole Body Alignment

November | Grateful Aging

December | Uplifting Humanity

Many Americans are fortunate to have dental coverage for their entire working life, through employer-provided benefits. When those benefits end with retirement, paying dental bills out-of-pocket can come as a shock, leading people to put off or even go without care.

Simply put — without dental insurance, there may be an important gap in your healthcare coverage.

When you’re comparing plans ...

 Look for coverage that helps pay for major services. Some plans may limit the number of procedures — or pay for preventive care only.

 Look for coverage with no deductibles. Some plans may require you to pay hundreds out of pocket before benefits are paid.

 Shop for coverage with no annual maximum on cash benefits. Some plans have annual maximums of $1,000.

Medicare doesn’t pay for dental care.1

That’s right. As good as Medicare is, it was never meant to cover everything. That means if you want protection, you need to purchase individual insurance.

Early detection can prevent small problems from becoming expensive ones.

The best way to prevent large dental bills is preventive care. The American Dental Association recommends checkups twice a year.

Previous dental work can wear out.

Even if you’ve had quality dental work in the past, you shouldn’t take your dental health for granted. In fact, your odds of having a dental problem only go up as you age.2

Treatment is expensive — especially the services people over 50 often need.

Consider these national average costs of treatment ... $222 for a checkup ... $190 for a filling ... $1,213 for a crown.3 Unexpected bills like this can be a real burden, especially if you’re on a fixed income.

1 “Medicare & You,” Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 2024. 2 “Aging changes in teeth and gums”, medlineplus.gov, 4/17/2022. 3 American Dental Association, Health Policy Institute, 2020 Survey of Dental Fees, Copyright 2020, American Dental Association.

“Absolutely love”

“I absolutely love my dental insurance. My dental office files the claims, leaving me with very little balance to pay.”

Dorothy P., TN