Restorative Poses and
Breathing Techniques
Weigh In on Trauma Healing
BENEFITS AND TIPS FOR PLANTING NATIVE TREES IN NORTH TEXAS
MUSHROOM MAGIC
Celebrating a Culinary Powerhouse
ANIMAL-ASSISTED THERAPY
A Look at Service Dogsand Horses
Acne, Arthritis, Allergy, Autism, Bipolar, Depression, Detox, Energy, Fertility, Cysts, Pancreatic Ulcer, Thyroid, Herpes, Lupus, Fibroid, Hair Loss, Impotency, Prostate, Kidney & Bladder Infection, Hepatitis A, B, C, Yeast Infection
’ve been reflecting on the intensity of the last few weeks here in North Texas. The relentless heat, with temperatures soaring above 100 for almost a month, kept many of us hunkered down. Yet as we step into September, there’s a palpable shift in the air—a sense of anticipation that comes with the promise of cooler days and the return of some of our favorite fall traditions.
For many of us, the State Fair of Texas, which kicks off at the end of this month, is the definitive harbinger of autumn. It has a magical way of ushering in the season, bringing with it the crispness and energy that we’ve been yearning for. I look forward to it every year—not just for the food (though, yes, I’ll be indulging in a few fried delights), but for the sense of community. After weeks of staying indoors, the prospect of gathering outdoors with friends and family to enjoy the fair’s many attractions is truly a breath of fresh air.
This issue of Natural Awakenings is focused on emotional healing, a timely theme as we emerge from the cocoon of summer heat. The underlying thread of these articles is the importance of achieving life balance. When we do that, we often find that we no longer need healing, because we naturally exist in a state of ongoing health and resilience.
Several North Texas therapists have generously shared their insights on trauma healing, beginning with a more expansive, modern definition of what trauma is. As they explain, it’s not just the big, dramatic events that leave a mark, but also the smaller, cumulative experiences that can affect our emotional health. The perspectives offered here are both enlightening and empowering, providing practical tools for navigating life’s challenges.
September is also National Yoga Month, so we delve into the all-around healing benefits of the practice in our story, “The Yoga Cure.” Long celebrated for promoting mind-body-spirit balance, yoga as a healing art is both ancient and ever-relevant. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or new to the mat, it can be a cornerstone of your emotional and physical well-being.
I’m also excited to highlight the incredible work being done at North Texas’ Equest, a therapeutic horsemanship center that’s been making a profound impact on clients and volunteers alike. There’s something truly special about the connection between humans and horses, and Equest taps into that bond, creating a healing environment that benefits everyone involved. The sense of purpose that volunteers experience through their work there is a testament to the power of giving back—another form of achieving balance.
As we move into this new season, let’s embrace opportunities to reconnect with ourselves and our community. Whether we’re attending events like the State Fair, engaging in a yoga practice or exploring new ways to heal emotionally, there are countless ways to restore balance and cultivate well-being. Let’s also carry forward the lessons of summer—especially the value of being present and slowing down. After all, when we achieve balance, we’ll find that there’s no need for healing, only the ongoing journey of living well.
Publisher Bernice Butler
Editor Martin Miron
Design & Production Kim Cerne
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Qigong teacher Jeff Primack will bring his Mind Body Activation event at Texas, at Rangers Center in Fredricksburg, from October 26 to 28. Attendees can experience powerful breathwork, qigong forms and hands-on healing practices. He says, “Learn techniques that open your chakras, improve digestion, reduce allergies, increase blood circulation, deepen sleep and overall make you feel amazing anytime you want. Qigong healing uses a slow, martial arts-style movement that noticeably boosts blood circulation in profound ways.”
Curriculum includes precise instruction in lymphatic drainage, myofascial release, activating chakras, foot reflexology for pain, antioxidant food science and more. In addition to qigong, participants will gain valuable insights into free radicals and how the immune system works.
Admission for three days is $299 ($254 before Sep. 30) or free to military, veterans, firefighters and police officers. Location: 1618 E. Main St., Fredericksburg, TX. For more information, call 561-275-8384 or visit MindBodyActivation.Live. See ad, page 3.
The Inner G Sauna Wellness spa, a new business in the Lakewood area, has the only Photon Genius Super Sauna in the DFW area and a staff that includes a certified health and wellness coach and professional stretch expert. Co-owner and operator Brikia Cephus is offering a free, 30-minute introductory super sauna session.
The Photon Genius is the number one sauna in the world that burns up to 700 calories in 30 minutes, reduces stress, improves cardiovascular health, boosts immunity and detoxes the body at the cellular level.
Services include 30-minute super sauna sessions and memberships; essential membership with four 30-minute sessions a month (one session per week)p and premium membership with eight sauna sessions a month (twice per week).
Location: 7324 Gaston Ave., Ste. 300, inside the Ovation Salon Suites. For more information, call 214-831-2799, email InnerGSauna@gmail.com or visit InnerG-Sauna.com
This year there are exciting new experiences at the State Fair of Texas. Whether attending for the food, the football or the music, there is something for everyone from September 27 to October 20. Debut attractions, exciting football matchups and star-studded musical performances make this season unforgettable for visitors of all ages.
Since 1886, the nonprofit State Fair of Texas, now a National Historic Landmark, has promoted Texas agriculture, education and community involvement through quality entertainment in a family-friendly environment.
New culinary delights include the Big Tex Choice Award finalists the Dominican Fritura Dog, The Drowning Taquitos, Hot Chick-In-Panccake Poppers, Texas Fried Burnt End Bombs, Nevins Nutty Bar-Laska and Rousso’s Cotton Candy Bacon on A Stick.
Football showdowns will take place on October 12 at the AT&T Red River Showdown, where the Texas Longhorns face off against the Oklahoma Sooners in one of college football’s most storied rivalries; and September 28, when the State Fair Classic will see the Grambling State Tigers take on the Prairie View A&M Panthers, continuing a tradition of excellence on the gridiron.
The 2024 State Fair of Texas features more than 100 artists on three stages, including the Chevrolet Main Stage, the Bud Light Stage and the Yuengling Flight Stage. All performances are free with fair admission, including a September 27 kick-off with Joe Dee Messina.
Location: 925 S. Haskell, Dallas. For tickets and more information, call 469- 945-3247 or visit BigTex.com. See ad, page 33.
Your Sprinkler System to Water 2X a Week or Less
This weekend you can program your sprinkler system to water only twice a week, even in the summer. (Any more is wasted!) And switch out some of those thirsty landscape plants for beautiful native plants. Have a water-saving weekend! Visit us online to find more water-saving projects.
Willowbend Health & Wellness welcomes you inside one of Plano’s most comprehensive holistic health & wellness centers that provides integrative health services to men, women, and adolescents. Here, we address all aspects of health from a functional and integrative medical perspective to identify the root cause of client complaints rather than just treating symptoms.
Gratitude is the most important human emotion. Are you tired of living life with stress and commotion? It’s time to Live a Lifestyle of Wellness. You have the ability to change direction. Stress management, exercise, nutrition and intermittent fasting is for your protection. How do you start and what should you do? Follow me on YouTube, FB and Instagram. The Dr. CBD and Nutrition Education Series will teach you. When you’re in the neighborhood stop by our retail store. There’s a plethora of CBD products to see and you can learn so much more. You will be greeted with kindness as soon as you open the door. If your interested in learning about vitamin supplements and CBD then please allow me to assist you on your wellness journey.
I’m Dr. JCHill MD. ALL SUPPLEMENTS AND CBD ARE NOT CREATED EQUAL
Cities face rapid urbanization, climate change and other stresses that make our food supplies vulnerable. The Dallas InnerCity Growers’ (DIG) Summit, sponsored by the city of Dallas Office of Environmental Quality and Sustainability, will take place on October 6 and 7 at the Martha Proctor Mack Grand Ballroom on the Southern Methodist University campus. It will bring together producers, food system stakeholders and change-makers from diverse backgrounds to address critical challenges within our urban food system.
Extreme weather, labor shortages and a lack of diversified production are causing disruptions, with food traveling farther to reach consumers. Although 80 percent of our food will soon be consumed in cities, many lack the mechanisms to support urban agriculture networks. The Summit will address these challenges by providing a platform for collaboration, sharing research, tools and resources to find solutions for a resilient food system. The Urban Regenerative Food Collective is DIG’s mission to give food system stakeholders a voice and reconnect urban and environmental systems.
The summit will host a collaborative network of food system stakeholders, including growers, academics, nonprofits and government representatives trying to improve the way our region feeds itself; increase understanding of food-system-related challenges facing North Texas and exposure to current initiatives creating resiliency in our region; and develop the means to challenge existing models, push boundaries and create solutions to the obstacles within our urban food system.
Participants will learn how to improve the way our region feeds itself, address rising costs and climate disruption, and enhance the health and wealth of our cities. Highlights include networking sessions to connect with fellow practitioners, academics, activists and funders; expert speaker sessions discussing best practices, innovative solutions and regenerative approaches; and interactive workshops covering urban agriculture, soil health and community resilience.
Scholarship opportunities are available. Location: 3300 Dyer St,. Dallas. For more information, call 214-671-8980, email Rabekha. Siebert@Dallas.gov or visit DigSummit.org.
by Sheila Julson
Heather Evans began to feel the isolation of being a solo small business owner while renting a small office for her independent chiropractic and medical massage practice, She enjoyed the independence of being her own boss and helping clients, yet missed the camaraderie of other healthcare professionals. She found that others in her position felt the same way and opened The Health Collective, a coworking space, in 2018.
Evans explains, “It’s the same model as the salon suites have been doing for many years. The basic model already exists, I simply added a new twist and brought it to the health and wellness community.” The 5,000-squarefoot space features 14 treatment rooms, a reception area, laundry facilities, a kitchen, breakroom and shared internet services for practitioners.
Twelve of the treatment rooms are available full-time. Providers rent the room empty and furnish it to represent their unique style and business function. Two additional treatment rooms, or flex rooms, come furnished with a massage table, furniture, lamps, a hot towel cabinet and a music speaker. They can be rented by practitioners hourly, daily or monthly for $12 per hour.
Practitioners reserve the flex rooms via a booking app then arrive at their reserved time with their own supplies. “These rooms are perfect for a new provider who is just beginning to grow their business, with very little overhead, the seasoned provider that needs a second location, or a provider that
is slowing down their larger business model,” Evans notes.
The modern, airy space has a spa-like feel, with neutral tones and calming lighting. Around two dozen practitioners, including acupuncturists, massage therapists, reiki and energy workers, physical therapists, hypnotherapists, counselors and aestheticians currently rent space at The Health Collective. Evans says she strives to keep a balance among the types of services offered to prevent oversaturation of similar practitioners and offer a diverse mix.
“The Health Collective’s unique model allows a practitioner to work in their own room, and the owner is not taking a percentage of their business,” Evans says. “Practitioners pay a flat rent, they come and go as they please, and they can do their own thing however they choose.”
The Health Collective is located on a service road for Central Expressway. There is ample parking, and it is conveniently located off the main lobby of the building on the first floor. A self-service check-in area features an iPad kiosk for clients to check in for their appointments, then the system sends a text to the provider to let them know the client has arrived.
Evans notes that being part of a collective allows practitioners to save on expenses by sharing resources so that they do not have
to outfit an entire office themselves. They can also cross-refer patients internally and gain clients by word-of-mouth. Profiles of the providers are displayed on the reception wall, and clients can scan a QR code to learn more. Evans emphasizes that this saves the providers marketing dollars.
They are also less isolated. Evans has seen practitioners discussing scheduling, accounting, marketing and overall creativity. She says, “It can be challenging to be self-employed. We learn from each other at the collective. There’s a shared synergy.”
Evans also observes that practitioners collaborate on client cases that may need another intervention to fully address a particular health situation, sharing, “The client’s health ultimately benefits, and this is why we do what we do.”
The collective model is growing throughout the country, for not only health and wellness entrepreneurs, but also restaurateurs, small batch food producers and art collectives. Evans sees this model becoming standard for aspiring entrepreneurs because it makes economic sense to share resources while increasing visibility.
“My overall capacity at The Health Collective is to create a nice environment for practitioners to work in, and for their customers to visit, says Evans. “People walk into our space and say that it feels good here, and that is what I work hard behind the scenes to maintain.”
The Health Collective is located at 10670 N. Central Expressway, Ste. 110, in Dallas. For more information, call 469-755-6905 or visit HLTHCO.com. See ad, page 9.
Exercise creates microscopic tears in muscle tissues, which the body repairs, and each repetition of this cycle allows muscles to grow back stronger. Contrast water therapy (CWT) is a post-workout recovery method that involves placing sore muscles in alternating hot and cold baths in succession. Data examined from 13 studies and published in a 2013 PLOS ONE review showed that CWT resulted in significantly greater improvements in muscle soreness and reduced strength loss at six, 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours after exercise, compared to rest without any other post-recovery approach. The results of CWT were comparable to other muscle recovery interventions such as cold-water immersion, warm-immersion, compression and stretching.
Lupus is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, damaging joints, skin, muscles, connective tissue and major organs such as the kidneys, brain and heart. According to the Lupus Foundation of America, an estimated 1.5 million Americans have lupus, with nine out of 10 being women. Researchers at Northwestern Medicine and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, in Boston, say they have identified the root cause of lupus. In research reported in the journal Nature, the scientists identified a molecular defect that promotes the immune response in lupus, as well as a way to reprogram the lupus-causing cells to correct the imbalance in the immune response. Work continues to find a safe and effective way to deliver these molecules to the body for reprogramming.
The findings of a study on the long-term effects of diet were presented at the June 2024 meeting of the American Society for Nutrition, in Chicago. The study tracked diet and cognitive abilities of more than 3,000 adults enrolled in a British survey since 1946. The participants’ diet was analyzed at five points in time, and their cognitive ability at seven points. The researchers found that higher dietary quality was closely linked with greater cognitive ability, including working memory, processing speed and general cognitive performance. Those with the highest cognitive abilities over time ate more vegetables, fruits, legumes and whole grains, and less sodium, added sugars and refined grains. Only 8 percent of participants with low-quality diets sustained high cognitive abilities. The results of the study suggest that the cumulative effects of diet are linked to how sharp the mind is as we age.
While food addiction is not considered an official diagnosis, some people have a hard time controlling the amount of highly processed foods they consume. In research published in the journal Gut, scientists analyzed the microbiome bacteria of mice and humans with food addictions. They found that the bacteria in mice and humans with food addictions were different from their counterparts with a healthy food relationship. The food-addicted groups had lower levels of the beneficial Blautia bacteria and high levels of the detrimental Proteobacteria in their microbiomes. When the researchers increased the Blautia bacteria levels in the mice that had become compulsive eaters, the compulsive behavior stopped. While a correlation between the microbiome makeup and eating patterns has been identified, more research is needed to understand whether that relationship is a cause or a marker for compulsive eating.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is estimated to affect 18.4 percent, or about 18 million, American men. Acupuncture has long been used as a treatment with fewer potential side effects than pharmaceutical treatments. Unlike conventional medicine, the application of acupuncture and other forms of Traditional Chinese Medicine my vary by practitioner. A research article published in Karger’s Complementary Medicine Research journal sought to reach consensus on the most effective diagnostic and treatment protocols for clinical use and for future research into the effectiveness of acupuncture. Eleven acupuncture experts named 24 acupoints and between 11 and 15 weekly treatments as an optimal regimen.
A group of international scientists have discovered a breeding population of Asian giant softshell turtles on the banks of India’s Chandragiri River. According to an article in the conservation journal Oryx, people from the local community reported sightings and aided in the live release of turtles caught by fisherman.
The softshell turtle has frog-like facial features and is native to the rivers of South and Southeast Asia. They can grow to be more than three feet in length and weigh more than 200 pounds. These turtles are classified as critically endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species. The turtle’s population has been in decline due to habitat destruction, over-harvesting for meat and harm from fishing gear. This discovery offers hope for future conservation efforts to help the turtles thrive.
Since 2017, Northwest Siberia has experienced 17 ground explosions, resulting in holes that are more than 20 feet across by 65 feet deep and filled with dark, peaty water. Speculation about the cause of these so-called black holes ranges from weapons testing and meteorites to sinkholes. A team led by the University of Oslo, in Norway, theorized that the holes are craters caused by warming Arctic temperatures, which weaken the frozen soil so much that fossil pockets of gas explode through its surface.
While thawing ice was long suspected as a cause, this theory explains why the holes are found only in specific areas of Russia, over the remains of some of the oldest continental crust found on Earth. In those areas, hot natural gas seeps up through geological faults that had been trapped by sediment caps of old frozen lakes. As the temperatures in Siberia have warmed, these caps are more likely to rupture, causing sudden gas explosions that could have formed the craters.
Inside a regular material that conducts electricity, electrons encounter resistance and lose energy in the form of heat. Superconductivity is a state where there is no electrical resistance inside the material. A typical superconducting material achieves zero resistance at extremely low temperatures and, usually, under high pressure. “Unconventional” superconductors are any superconducting materials that work at higher, although still very low, temperatures.
In research published in the journal Communications Materials, scientists have reported the first “unconventional” superconductor found in nature. Miassite, a gray, metallic mineral made of rhodium and sulfur, is usually found embedded in other materials in its natural state and was identified as a regular superconductor in 2010. Special testing was performed on a lab-made piece of miassite to confirm its unconventional status. The only other unconventional superconductors are compounds
A 24-hour day seems like a constant, but a day has slowly been getting longer. A day was less than 19 hours long 1.4 billion years ago and was only 23 hours long when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. Natural events such as earthquakes, volcanoes, tides and wind patterns can affect how fast or slow the world turns.
Recently, scientists observed that the dynamics of the Earth’s liquid outer core were causing the planet to speed its rotation, suggesting that we might need to delete a second of time from our clocks for the first time ever. In our highly connected world that relies on precise timekeeping, losing a second could lead to unforeseen complications. However, a new study in the journal Nature concludes that the redistribution of water caused by the melting polar ice caps caused by climate change will delay the need to delete a second from the clock to 2028 or 2029.
A decrease in biodiversity may lead to the loss of some of the most beloved cheeses—camembert, brie and blue cheese—according to a warning from the French National Center for Scientific Research. The fungi used to ferment these cheeses and give them their unique taste, smell, color and texture are in decline, and it is believed that efforts to engineer consistent results using fungi made in the lab is partially to blame for this decline.
In the case of camembert, the objective was to create a standardized, pristine-white look and silky texture by using a specific strain of albino fungus. But over time, that fungus has lost its ability to reproduce naturally and is losing its capability to produce asexual spores. Relying on a single form of an organism also makes it susceptible to disease, which could wipe out the whole population. In the future, cheese lovers may need to accept the greater degree of variability in the look and taste of their favorite cheeses that results from using wild fungi.
by Carrie Gauthier
Trauma can strike anyone at any time. Loss, heartbreak, abuse, violence, displacement, accidents, disasters, health problems—the list of possible traumas is endless. According to the National Council for Behavioral Health, 70 percent of adults have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lives, and more than a third of youth exposed to community violence experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Trauma is a factor in most behavioral health and substance-use disorders. While trauma may be part of our lives, it does not need to define who we are or how we enjoy our lives.
Healing from trauma can take time, but it is within reach.
Left untreated, trauma or repeated trauma has a wide range of short- and long-term effects on physical and mental health. Trauma increases stress and keeps the fight-or-flight response on elevated alert, resulting in the release of chronically high amounts of cortisol into the body. Initial reactions may include exhaustion, numbness, sadness, anxiety and dissociation. Excessive cortisol increases the risk of serious health
conditions such as heart disease, digestive problems, muscle tension, headaches, sleep issues, weight gain, irregular periods, anxiety, depression and cognitive challenges.
Trauma is a common precursor to addiction, because individuals often turn to substances as a coping mechanism for their emotional pain. The use of drugs or alcohol gives trauma sufferers a reprieve from their chronic stress by producing pleasure and reducing negative feelings, and may even slow their central nervous system. Untreated, trauma can lead to a vicious cycle where one condition feeds the other.
While medications such as antidepressants and antipsychotics can be effective in treating trauma symptoms, they may fall short in addressing the root cause. An integrative approach to trauma healing adds evidence-based therapies to tackle the underlying causes and promote long-term recovery.
James Greenblatt, a board-certified function-
al and integrative psychiatrist and founder of Psychiatry Redefined, believes in a broader view of psychiatric care. “For example, if our patient is suffering from depression and we were to tell them they should exercise because it’s the best antidepressant we have, that could come off as incredibly insensitive, ruin our chances of gaining their trust and add to their feelings of helplessness and isolation. Alternatively, if we show them how to recover their motivation and energy, that is the way to begin the relationship.”
“Our bodies are different, and our genetics are different. How we react to stress and trauma are different too. I start with lab and genetic tests to see if there’s something I can optimize biologically. Then we supplement any nutritional deficiencies to restore their functionality and increase their energy. These tests also partially help inform the way we design the complementary healing modality plan. This is the piece that gets missed a lot,” says Greenblatt, adding that he tests depressed patients for a vitamin B12 deficiency, which may contribute to depression, anxiety and even psychosis.
Children are particularly susceptible to trau ma, and an adverse childhood experience
(ACE) can pose lifelong impacts. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 64 percent of adults say they have had at least one ACE, and 17 percent say they had four or more by age 18. ACEs can rob kids of the magic of childhood, disrupt their development and lead to maladaptive behaviors in adulthood.
Aimie Apigian, a double board-certified physician in preventative and addiction medicine and founder of Trauma Healing Accelerated, started her work with attachment and trauma by working with adoptive families to help their children with attachment insecurity. She explains that childhood traumatic experiences can result in “underlying mistrust—literally wiring a child’s nervous system, brain and body for survival—and overwhelm connection, security and safety.”
Somatic therapy is one modality that Apigian integrates to assist individuals on their trauma-healing journey, helping them connect with their bodies, learn to understand its messages and resolve stored trauma. Apigian explains that just 10 minutes of sequential somatic exercises over 21 days can restore a
ment as soon as we shift our biology into one of safety rather than of danger.”
By following an essential sequence to safely address stored trauma through somatic exercises, Apigian says people “experience 30 percent less depression, 30 percent less anxiety, 30 percent fewer digestive issues, 30 percent improvement in energy and a 60 percent increase in their feelings of safety. The essential sequence has to start with creating a felt sense of safety, then a sense of support and then opening up while pacing our process. It is such a powerful way to empower them for their lifetime.”
Inner-child work can help develop a dialogue to reach the place where we hold past emotions, memories, beliefs, hopes and dreams. “I tell people when they’re starting this journey, if they put their hands on their belly above and below their bellybutton and just let the hands be there, that will calm down an aspect of us so that it begins to feel safe. It’s called the basic self,” says Dr. Lin Morel, a trauma management specialist and founder of Beyond Words Group. “It’s an aspect of our consciousness that is roughly 5 years old, if you were to give it an age. So it gets very fearful,
According to Morel, embracing the basic self can help people out of some of the darkest corners of trauma. No stranger to childhood and adult trauma herself, she empowers her patients with the W.I.N. protocol (willingness, intention, neutrality), which offers them a fresh approach to handling challenges while developing their intuition and regulating emotions as a neutral observer.
There is growing evidence that mindfulness-based practices such as meditation and yoga aid in shifting focus from the negative to the positive aspects of experiences. These techniques calm the nervous system and empower individuals to take control of their narratives and become more resilient.
A 2017 review of trials involving 650 trauma sufferers that underwent mindfulness-based stress reduction, yoga and mantra repetition was published in Psychological Trauma: Theory, Research, Practice, and Policy. The researchers concluded that meditation was an effective treatment for PTSD and depression symptoms as compared to the control groups.
A 2022 systematic review of 149 records and 11 peer-reviewed articles published in the International Journal of Environmental
Research and Public Health found that those that practiced yoga had an increased sense of self-compassion, felt more centered, developed coping skills, had a better mind-body relationship and improved their relationships with others. Participants also experienced a feeling of safety in yoga classes that included others recovering from trauma.
Hypnotherapy is a mind-body practice that uses a trance-like state of deep relaxation to treat psychological and emotional disorders. Guided imagery, progressive relaxation and suggestion therapy are used to explore thoughts, feelings and memories that may be hidden from the conscious mind. Self-hypnosis techniques are also taught for ongoing support, empowering individuals to continue their healing outside of therapy sessions. A 2016 meta-analysis published in the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis concluded that hypnosis is effective in alleviating PTSD symptoms.
“A miracle, simply, is a shift in the mind. Once you find the root cause of the problem in the mind and bring that to consciousness, we’re shifting from ego to true self, from fear to love, from illusion to truth,” says Matthew Brownstein, executive director of the Institute of Interpersonal Hypnotherapy. “Through hypnotherapy, that shift is actually remarkably easy. You can shift as quickly as I can snap my fingers. So, basically, when you change your mind, everything changes. When a decision is made, it stays in place until you choose again.”
Carrie Gauthier is a writer in the healing arts with interests in clinical and transpersonal hypnotherapy.
by Martin Miron
An automobile accident may inflict traumatic physical injuries upon its victims; just as with casualties of war. Witnessing the same events can also create mental or psychic trauma that may not seem as obvious, but still causes lasting emotional and psychological harm. If these events are repeated, they may create unstable situations that bring unintended consequences.
Angela Harris, owner of Angela Harris Counseling, says, “Trauma is when something harmful happens to you that changes how you see yourself, others or the world around you. The most prevalent traumas
I see are sexual assaults and trauma from childhood, including feeling neglected, abandoned or unloved in the family of origin. I think sexual assaults are coming up more and more often as folks feel more comfortable in disclosing these experiences. I believe the #MeToo movement worked toward normalizing the idea of reporting these incidents and working on them in therapy.”
She explains, “Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is the most effective treatment I see with clients. EMDR is evidence based for PTSD and trauma symptoms. It uses the brain’s natural healing functions to reprocess traumatically stored events; it works more quickly than other modalities and produces significant results.
Harris encourages people to take trauma recovery at their own pace, saying, “Each person is different in regard to what they can tackle and when. Some folks are ready for in-depth trauma work as soon as they start therapy, while others need to do more prep work before doing intensive trauma healing. I encourage everyone to not rush yourself while also challenging yourself to face the difficulties you’ve experienced.”
Licensed Clinical Social Worker Kavina McLeod, owner of Color Me Green Child & Family Therapy, shares, “I’ve found that many people don’t fully understand what constitutes trauma. In fact, if I don’t provide specific examples, those who have experienced a less-recognized traumatic event are likely to deny having experienced any.”
She relates, “When people think of trauma, they often imagine severe events like abuse, neglect, car accidents, the death of a child, war experiences, bullying or gun violence. While these are indeed traumatic, trauma can also come from less obvious events, such as a bad experience from a medical procedure, separation or divorce impacting
children and/or parents, exposure to longterm work stress or first responders dealing with trauma survivors on a regular basis. All these experiences can impact the brain and body, leading to intrusive memories, heightened sensitivity and physical symptoms with no clear medical cause.”
McLeod sees grade school bullying as one prevalent trauma her clients encounter. “It is disheartening to see how unavoidable bullying can seem and its contribution to mental health challenges. While many parents are seeking therapy for their children, there is also a noticeable increase in efforts by local schools to address this issue,” she says. “Schools are providing mental health education through themed weeks and trainings, implementing tools like STOPit for students and families to anonymously report safety concerns, and implementing orders to maintain distance from conflicting peers with consequences for violations. Overall, the increased focus on mental health has led to greater awareness and acceptance of therapeutic support during a time when our world is experiencing a mental health crisis.”
She cautions, “If left untreated, trauma can stem and/or worsen post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression and substance use, among other mental health challenges,” and encourages people to seek professional help and build a supportive network of people to feel safe, reduce risks and start the journey to healing.
curs when your body continues to react to present-day triggers because it remembers and has imprinted a specific feeling from a past unsafe situation. Currently, the most common traumas I see are related to clients’ fear of commitment and vulnerability with those close to them. This often stems from childhood experiences where they were consistently invalidated and made to feel they were not good enough. The prevalence of this type of trauma seems to be increasing, possibly due to the ease of comparing oneself to others on social media, which reinforces feelings of inadequacy or the need for perfection.”
The treatment she finds most effective is a combination of dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). “These approaches are powerful because they involve a lot of validation and help unlock emotions that clients find difficult to express. DBT, in particular, helps clients view situations from multiple perspectives, which fosters acceptance of who they are and the understanding that change is possible,” she finds.
Russell advises, “My biggest tip for trauma recovery is to just get started—there’s no need to wait for a specific event to begin your healing journey. Also, be patient with yourself. You’ve spent most of your life building habits rooted in trauma, so it will take more than a few weeks to heal and create a new path forward.”
Cindy J. Payne, MS, LPC-S, NCC, CYT,
owner of Rooted Counseling Services, PLLC, defines trauma as essentially a deeply distressing or disturbing experience that overwhelms a person’s ability to cope. “It can affect how someone feels, thinks and behaves long after the event. Think of it as an emotional wound that doesn’t heal easily on its own. Trauma can result from things like abuse, accidents, loss or other significant stressors—not just the event itself, but how the person perceives and is affected by it,” she shares.
Current prevalent traumas include childhood adversity—experiences like neglect, abuse or severe family dysfunction; trauma from violence—domestic violence, assault and community violence; mental health crises—high levels of anxiety, depression and stress, sometimes exacerbated by social and economic pressures; natural disasters—experiences from events like hurricanes, wildfires and floods; and pandemic-related trauma—stress and loss related to COVID-19, including grief, economic instability and social isolation.
Therapeutic approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) that helps people understand and change negative thought patterns and behaviors; eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) that uses guided eye movements to help process and integrate traumatic memories; trauma-informed therapy and trauma-informed yoga, which ensure that therapists and yoga teachers understand the impact of trauma and work in a way that is sensitive to clients’ experiences; medication that is sometimes used to manage symptoms like anxiety or depression that can accompany trauma; and support groups to connect with others that have had similar experiences which can be validating and afford practical advice.
Trauma recovery is a personal journey, and what works best can vary from person to person. It is important to explore different approaches and find what resonates with the individual.
Licensed Professional Counselor, Clinical Certified Trauma Professional, Certified Clinical Shakina Robinson-Wiggins M.S., LPC, CCTP, CCATP, CTMH, owner of Malaysia’s Heart Counseling, LLC, is an anxiety treatment professional and Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider in Frisco. She says, “Defining trauma from a bird’s-eye perspective can help one understand what trauma really is and how to navigate through life better. Trauma is an emotional response to an intense event that threatens or has even caused harm. It is often the result of an overwhelming amount of stress that exceeds one’s ability to cope with, or accept the emotions involved with that experience.”
She explains, “Trauma may result from a single distressing experience or from recurring events of being overwhelmed. Being in practice for 17-plus years, I have noticed that the
most prevalent traumas have stemmed from a wide range of different situations such as family dynamics, experiencing unexpected deaths, being a first responder, dealing with life-threatening illnesses, natural disasters and a global pandemic.”
She notes, “During that time, my practice experienced an increase in the need of therapy services during the pandemic, where I treated many clients who suffered from adjusting to a new way of life, unemployment, grief, anxiety, depression, stress, fear, anger and either first-hand or second- hand illnesses. When it comes to trauma, there are different approaches in securing effective treatment, and the one that I utilize in my practice is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) a type of psychotherapy that helps people change unhealthy ways of thinking, feeling and behaving. It is a combination of cognitive therapy and behavioral therapy that can help guide one into healing.”
Robinson-Wiggins says, “Self-care is also another important factor in trauma recovery, which includes prioritizing yourself, no matter what form you choose to use. Exercising using grounding techniques, journaling, creating better routines for sleep, creating and keeping a positive support system around you such as family and friends, creating boundaries and most importantly, reaching out to
professionals that can help you process your trauma and overall recovery. You also need to remember that you are not alone, and you can turn your trauma into triumph if you allow yourself to be vulnerable and accept the needed help to ensure that you positively feel supported and empowered.”
Angela Harris Counseling; 12700 Park Central Dr., Ste. 110, Dallas; 214-4490029; Hello@AngelaHarrisCounseling. com: AngelaHarrisCounseling.com.
Color Me Green Child & Family Therapy; 5300 Town and Country Blvd., Ste. 240, Frisco; Info@colormegreencft.com; colormegreencft.com.
Olive Branch Counseling; 1820 Preston Park Blvd., Ste. 2200, Plano; 469-6268795; jrussell@olivebranchdfw.com; olivebranchdfw.com.
Rooted Counseling Services; 5750 Genesis Ct., Ste. 135, Frisco; 972-391-7630; Cindy@RootedCounselingServicesFrisco. com; RootedCounselingServicesFrisco. com.
Malaysia’s Heart Counseling; 940-9770553; sdr@MalaysiasHeartCounseling. com; MalaysiasHeartCounseling.net. Summer is here and you want to be outside. Some of your “outdoor residents” are invading your outdoor plans. Our products are essential oils and “green ” products,
by Marlaina Donato
September is National Mushroom Month, and with it comes bountiful inspiration to plate up some earthy goodness. Whether we follow the nearest woodland path to forage or visit the local market to stock up on our favorite fungi, autumn is the perfect time to appreciate the delicious world of edible mushrooms. From creamy vegan risotto to golden soups, or from daring sautés punctuated with chiles to savory broths, consuming more mushrooms benefits our palate and well-being.
The Mayo Clinic reports that mushrooms help curb high blood pressure and protect us from neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Most mush-
rooms available at the market are a good source of B vitamins and minerals, especially selenium-rich creminis and vitamin D-rich maitakes.
A 2021 Penn State study published in Advances in Nutrition involving data of more than 19,500 cancer patients over several decades reveals that individuals consuming one-eighth to one-quarter cup of mushrooms daily had a 45 percent lower risk of total cancer compared to those that did not. It is believed that the antioxidants ergothioneine and glutathione—present in all mushrooms—contribute to beneficial metabolic processes in the body. Other research is focused on a correlation between white button mushroom consumption and a lower risk of prostate and breast cancer.
Mushrooms have been used as both nourishment and medicine for ages, but their versatility in the kitchen is what delights Sharon Palmer, a plant-based dietician and author of California Vegan and The Plant-Powered Diet. “You can sauté or grill them as a side dish, stir them into soups and stews, add them to grain and pasta dishes, chop them into salads or bowls and include them in casseroles,” she advises. “Use finely chopped mushrooms in lentil patties, veggie burgers, veggie ‘meat’ balls and veggie loaves. You really can’t detect their texture, but you get that rich, savory flavor in the recipe.”
Palmer favors certain commonly available varieties: shiitake and trumpet mushrooms for their reliable, firm texture; oyster mushrooms for their delicate softness suited for stir fries; and petite enoki mushrooms for a crisp addition to salads. To obtain memorable flavor, gourmet varieties such as porcinis can be purchased dried and easily rehydrated for soups and sauces.
On the wilder side, foraged mushrooms such as golden chanterelles are an annual favorite among connoisseurs. “The mossy, old-growth forests of the Pacific Northwest are some of my favorite fall destinations,” says Langdon Cook, a Seattle-based forager and author of The Mushroom Hunters, who recommends taking a foraging class or joining a mycological society for hands-on safety tips and in-the-field learning.
Cook notes that mushrooms are ideal for vegetarians and vegans because many varieties are firm in texture and pair well with
vegetables. “Black trumpet or yellowfoot mushrooms take a basic dish of creamy polenta to the next level, and most grains and pastas will benefit from the addition of fungi,” he asserts. “Try a dry sauté method: heating the mushrooms in a bare pan until they release their water, cooking off that liquid and then adding butter or oil near the end of the cooking process to brown them.”
While mushrooms can dress up gourmet dishes, they are surprisingly quick and easy for everyday eating, too. “You don’t need to fuss over mushrooms too much,” Palmer points out. “Just rinse in water and pat dry; then you’re ready to cook with them. My favorite way to cook mushrooms is to slice and sauté them in a small amount of olive oil with garlic and lemon as a side dish.”
Cook advises, “Don’t try to cook mushrooms too fast or over high heat. Medium heat is fine. Take your time. Mushrooms are mostly water, and you need to cook off that liquid content to give them a nice sear.” He underscores the importance of cooking wild mushrooms fully to prevent digestive upset, especially morels, which “absolutely cannot be served raw or undercooked.”
Palmer concurs, saying, “Eating raw mushrooms may cause mild GI [gastrointestinal] issues in some people; cooking the mushrooms typically eliminates this issue.” She also suggests covering the pot or pan when cooking them in soups or stews to lock in flavor and nutrition.
For Cook, the magical lure of mushrooms goes beyond the tastebuds. “To me, morels mean springtime trips to woodlands reawakening from winter slumbers with birdsong and snowmelt, and porcinis mean long summer hikes to subalpine meadows in the Rockies and North Cascades,” he says.
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and recording artist. Connect at BluefireStudio.art.
YIELD: 6 SERVINGS
FOR LENTIL MUSHROOM FILLING:
1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium red onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 8-oz sweet potato, peeled, cubed
4 oz fresh green beans, chopped
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
1 cup brown or green lentils, dried
2 Tbsp fresh sage (or 1 Tbsp dried)
2 tsp thyme
1 Tbsp whole-grain prepared mustard
½ tsp black pepper
2 cups vegetable broth
½ cup water
2 Tbsp gluten-free soy sauce
¼ cup plain, unsweetened, plant-based milk
2 Tbsp flour
Salt, to taste
FOR SAGE PASTRY CRUST:
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup whole wheat flour
¼ tsp salt (optional)
2 Tbsp fresh sage, chopped (or 1 Tbsp dried)
⅓ cup vegan butter
4-5 Tbsp ice-water
Heat olive oil in a heavy pot or saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté for 5 minutes. Add sweet potato and green beans and sauté for 3 minutes. Add mushrooms and sauté for 2 minutes. Add lentils, sage, thyme, mustard and black pepper and sauté for 1 minute. Add vegetable broth, water and soy sauce and cook for 15 minutes.
Mix plant-based milk with flour until smooth. Stir into vegetable mixture and cook until thickened and bubbling, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, as desired. Transfer filling into a deep pie dish or round casserole that fits 1½ quarts.
While filling is cooking, make the sage pastry crust. Preheat oven to 425°F. In a medium bowl, mix all-purpose and whole-wheat flours and salt. Mix in sage. Cut in vegan butter with a fork until
it makes a crumbly texture. Add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and mix using clean hands until it creates a firm dough that holds together but is not sticky. Do not overwork dough, as it will get tough.
Turn out pastry dough on a floured surface and roll out with a pastry roller to create a circle about 11 inches in diameter. Place the pastry over the top of the savory pie and crimp the edges with your fingers to secure the pastry dough to the top of the dish. Cut several vents with a knife along the pie.
Place the savory pie on a baking sheet (in case it boils over) and place in the oven. Bake for about 20 to 22 minutes until golden brown. Remove and serve.
To make this recipe gluten-free, use corn starch instead of flour and gluten-free flour blend instead of all purpose and whole wheat flour.
Recipe and photo courtesy of Sharon Palmer.
Mushroom Bomb Lentil Pasta
YIELD: 6 SERVINGS
1 8-oz package lentil pasta
3 Tbsp truffle oil or extra-virgin olive oil
1 lb mixed mushrooms (enoki, shiitake, cremini, hen of the woods, maitake, oyster), coarsely sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp chopped fresh or dried thyme
1 cup dry white wine
Sea salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cook lentil pasta in boiling water according to package directions. Rinse and drain.
While pasta is cooking, heat truffle oil in a large sauté pan and add mushrooms, garlic and thyme. Sauté for 3 minutes. Add white wine and continue sautéing for an additional 5 minutes to reduce liquid and make a more concentrated sauce. Add cooked pasta to mushroom mixture and toss together. Season as desired with salt and black pepper. Serve immediately.
Recipe and photo courtesy of Sharon Palmer.
YIELD: 2 SERVINGS
3 Tbsp peanut oil
¾ lb oyster mushrooms, cut into half-dollar pieces
¾ lb chicken breast, thinly sliced into a similar size as mushrooms
4 green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces
3 large cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 large thumb-sized piece of ginger, thinly sliced
Salt and white pepper, to taste
FOR MARINADE:
½ tsp salt
1 tsp Chinese cooking wine (Shaoxing)
1 tsp potato starch
FOR SAUCE:
3 Tbsp chicken stock
1 Tbsp oyster sauce
½ tsp potato starch
Combine sliced chicken in a bowl with marinade ingredients, stir and set aside. Whisk together sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
In a wok over medium heat, sauté oyster mushrooms in 1 tablespoon oil, stirring occasionally. Remove to a bowl when slightly browned.
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in wok over high heat and add marinated chicken. When the chicken is partly cooked but still pinkish, add garlic, ginger and green onion. Cook together, stirring, for 30 seconds until aromatic before returning oyster mushrooms to wok. Continue to cook together another minute or so until chicken is barely cooked through.
Pour in sauce, stir to coat and reduce heat. Season to taste and serve immediately with rice.
Recipe and photo courtesy of Langdon Cook.
The Dallas Cowboys, a team with rich traditions and a deep connection to its fanbase, continues to innovate in the fan experience. New “Plant-Based Touchdown” food offerings at AT&T Stadium are a testament to their commitment to meeting the diverse tastes and dietary needs of fans. Vegan, vegetarian and healthy menu options will be available for the 2024 NFL season, beginning with the pre-season game against the Los Angeles Chargers on August 24, and officially launch at the home opener against the New Orleans Saints on September 15.
The Dallas Cowboys work with the Paul Quinn College WE Over Me Farm, integrating fresh, locally sourced produce into these health-conscious options. This partnership supports ongoing efforts to combat chronic illnesses by encouraging a plant-based diet.
This seasons’ plant-based and healthy options include: Vegan Tostitos Ultimae Nachos, Vegan Hot Dog/Chili Dog, Vegan BBQ Sandwich, Vegetarian Cowboys Cheesesteak, Strawberry Kiwi Yogurt Par-
fait, Market Berry Chicken Salad, Strawberry Kiwi Yogurt Parfait.
Vegan Tostitos Ultimate Nachos: A plantbased twist on a fan favorite. Thick-cut Tostitos tortilla chips are topped with vegan hot nacho cheese sauce, hearty plant-based Texas chili, fresh pico de gallo and jalapeños. Available in Upper Concourse Sections 411 and 441.
Vegan Hot Dog/Chili Dog: This classic stadium treat has been reimagined for vegans. Served on a freshly baked vegan bun, it is topped with hearty vegan Texas chili and melty vegan cheese sauce. Available in Upper Concourse Sections 411 and 441.
Vegan BBQ Sandwich: A delicious plantbased shredded BBQ protein, tossed in tangy BBQ sauce, and served on a freshly baked vegan bun. Available in Upper Concourse Sections 411 and 441.
Vegetarian Cowboys Cheesesteak: A meatless version of the famous Cowboys Cheesesteak, ensuring that vegetarians do not miss
out on the game day tradition. Available in Upper Concourse Sections 411 and 441.
Market Berry Chicken Salad: Fresh strawberries and blueberries paired with grilled chicken, feta cheese and candied pecans, all served with a house-made poppy seed dressing. Available at Grab N Go locations—Miller LiteHouse and Upper Concourse Sections 420 and 450.
Strawberry Kiwi Yogurt Parfait: A healthy, refreshing option featuring vanilla Greek yogurt, strawberry purée, fresh strawberries and kiwi, topped with coconut granola. Available at Grab N Go locations—Miller LiteHouse and Upper Concourse Sections 420 and 450.
George Wasai, vice president of food and beverage for Legends Hospitality at AT&T Stadium, says, “The Plant-Based Touchdown program is taking our menu to the next level. We are excited to offer these delicious vegan and vegetarian options to ensure all fans, regardless of dietary preference, can enjoy our game day experience.”
by Denise Piaschyk
Incorporating native trees into the North Texas landscape offers numerous benefits. These trees are specifically adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, requiring less maintenance while providing significant environmental advantages. When selecting native trees for a property, choosing container-grown options can provide additional advantages over non-container-grown trees.
Container-grown native trees have well-developed root systems that remain completely intact during the transplanting process. This raises the success rate when transplanted into the garden, as the trees are not subjected to the trauma that can occur with bare-root or balled-and-burlapped trees.
By contrast, non-container-grown trees often experience more transplant shock and may struggle to establish themselves in the new environment because their root systems are often damaged or reduced during the digging and transplanting process. Here are some top native tree recommendations for North Texas.
Red Oak (Quercus shumardii): Fast-growing tree with stunning fall foliage; thrives in well-drained soils and can withstand heat and drought.
Live Oak (Quercus virginiana): Iconic, sprawling tree that provides dense shade; drought-tolerant and adaptable to various soil types.
Chinquapin Oak (Quercus muehlenbergii): Medium-sized oak that prefers the limestone soils common in North Texas; features attractive, leathery leaves and produces acorns favored by wildlife.
Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa): Massive, hardy tree capable of withstanding drought and poor soil; provides excellent shade with its large, spreading branches.
Cedar Elm (Ulmus crassifolia): Versatile, low-maintenance tree that thrives in diverse soil conditions; drought- and disease-resistant, making it well-suited for urban areas.
Mexican Plum (Prunus mexicana): Smaller tree, ideal for compact spaces; produces fragrant white flowers in the spring and small edible plums; drought-tolerant and adapts well to different soils.
Possumhaw Holly (Ilex decidua): Deciduous holly that adds winter interest with its bright red berries; well-suited for North Texas, tolerating drought and poor soil conditions.
Yaupon Holly (Ilex vomitoria): Evergreen shrub or small tree that is incredibly hardy; endures drought, poor soil, and even some flooding; offers attractive glossy leaves and bright red berries.
Incorporating these hardy native trees into a landscape, can enhance the beauty of the property while supporting the local ecosystem, reducing maintenance requirements and contributing to the sustainability and resilience of the local environment.
Denise and Bob Piaschyk are the owners of Treeland Nursery, Inc. For more information visit TreelandNursery.com.
by Carrie Gauthier
The first known reference to yoga is in the Upanishads Sanskrit texts, written 2,500 years ago. The practice originally comprised breath work, and the physical postures developed over time. According to the global data platform Statista, nearly 34 million Americans practice numerous types of yoga, while science continues to provide evidence of its healing potential.
With the frenetic pace of life today, many
people live in a permanent state of anxiety. Yoga can ease the panic and malaise by activating the parasympathetic nervous system to decrease stress hormones, blood pressure and heart rate.
“Yoga therapy differs from traditional psychotherapy in scope and aim. Rather than delving into traumas, yoga empowers individuals to be present, moving away from personal narratives,” says Adam Flores, a certified yoga therapist from Port St. Lucie, Florida, specializing in addiction and men-
tal health. “Trained yoga therapists offer grounding techniques and skillful checkins, especially for trauma cases, improving heart rate variability, vagal tone and overall nervous system health.”
A 2011 meta-analysis study published in Primary Care Companion for CNS Disorders indicates that yoga may be an effective treatment option for severe mental illness, with the added advantage of being less toxic than pharmaceutical treatments.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant issue facing the U.S. military and a growing problem for teens that have experienced violent or traumatizing events. Conventional treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing have shown limited effectiveness due to high dropout and nonresponse rates. On the other hand, studies have found that engaging in yoga and other mind-body practices can reduce intrusive memories, avoidance and emotional arousal symptoms, as well as anxiety, depression and anger associated with PTSD.
Yoga therapy improves critical factors in addiction recovery, including emotional balance, mental clarity and stress reduction. In a 2021 study published in the Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine, yoga for the treatment of substance abuse disorder was determined to be an effective option.
Yoga has developed into a variety of styles that can meet the goals and objectives of their practitioners. Some of the more popular formats include:
• Vinyasa: An up-tempo class of postures or poses (asanas), often accompanied by high-energy music that typically results in a consistently elevated heart rate. A
2017 study published in The FASEB Journal found that eight weeks of vinyasa yoga improved physical fitness, relieved stress and improved mental well-being.
• Yin: This form of yoga focuses on gentle, passive stretches held for one to three minutes, offering ample opportunity to release stress and tension. Poses are often supported by props such as bolsters, straps, blocks, pillows and blankets. Long, slow, deep breathing promotes relaxation to help the practitioner hold each pose for extended periods of time. Yin yoga stimulates and stretches fascia, the thin connective tissue throughout the body, as well as ligaments and joints, resulting in increased flexibility.
• Hatha: This is a classic yoga style involving breathing exercises and poses that are held for longer periods of time than other formats. Although the slower, more meditative pace may seem easier, holding a proper pose for extended periods of time can be challenging for the body and mind. According to a 2018 study in the International Journal of Preventive Medicine, 12 sessions of hatha yoga significantly reduced stress, anxiety and depression in women.
• Kundalini: This yoga style prioritizes spiritual growth and awareness, with a focus on energy and chakras. Kundalini awakenings are common via movement sequences, breath work, mantras and chanting. Different studies in 2021 found that kundalini yoga is an effective shortterm therapy for generalized anxiety disorder and can be helpful in reducing the severity of insomnia.
One of the core tenets of a yogic practice is self-compassion, and it is important to resist the inclination for negative self-talk. To adopt the yogic way is to choose happiness over suffering.
“In my experience, the best healing experiences happened by tapping into the body and unlocking the energies we hold onto,” says Paty Renda, a certified Ananda hatha yoga instructor and co-owner of Premah Wellness, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. “I believe in serious work done through fun exercises such as breath, dance, laughter and movement. A simple, slow and deep
hatha yoga practice can create profound changes. Gratitude is another very easy, and yet immensely powerful, practice I infuse into everything I do.”
Carrie Gauthier is a writer in the healing arts with interests in clinical and transpersonal hypnotherapy.
by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN
Pet therapy, also known as animalassisted therapy (AAT), has long been recognized for its therapeutic benefits across a range of mental health conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Psychiatric service dogs are empathetic in nature and intuitively respond to human emotions. These capacities allow them to provide comfort and support precisely when it’s needed, often without the need for verbal communication. These dogs are not just pets but vital partners in the journey toward mental and emotional healing.
Interacting with psychiatric service dogs can reduce anxiety and stress levels by increasing the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and stress reduction, while decreasing cortisol levels, which are linked to stress.
Psychiatric service dogs provide a calming presence, which is crucial for reducing anxiety and hypervigilance, common symptoms of PTSD. A study published in Frontiers in Psychology involving 134 veterans with service dogs found that trained skills such as calming and interrupting anxiety are highly valued by veterans with PTSD, suggesting their critical role in daily PTSD management. The study also noted that untrained behaviors of the dogs are often perceived as more beneficial than their trained tasks, highlighting the intrinsic value of simply having a dog as a companion.
A 2022 study of 82 post-9/11 military veterans published in PLOS ONE reported that their psychiatric service dogs helped them with PTSD by performing calming actions and interrupting the veterans’ disturbing behaviors and thoughts during anxiety episodes. Researchers noted that all of the tasks the dogs had been trained to perform were used daily by the veterans, providing benefits for nearly all PTSD symptoms, except amnesia and reckless behavior. The humananimal bond and untrained qualities, such
as companionship, also significantly improved the participants’ symptoms and quality of life.
Psychiatric service dogs enhance emotional regulation and improve social interactions for PTSD sufferers. Their non-judgmental and accepting nature creates a safe space for individuals to explore and manage difficult emotions. Additional research reported in the European Journal of Psychotraumatology demonstrated significant improvements in emotional and attentional regulation among adolescents with PTSD that were asked to participate in a one-year dog-training program.
While the therapeutic benefits for the handlers are significant, the European Journal of Psychotraumatology study also noted that the dogs in the training programs exhibited increased anxiety and decreased attention. This highlights a critical aspect
of AAT: The welfare of the animals must be considered alongside the therapeutic benefits. Training programs need to ensure that the dogs are not overly stressed or burdened by their roles.
Prospective handlers of psychiatric service dogs should choose programs that prioritize the well-being of both dogs and humans through training, support and follow-up care. Engaging with a psychiatric service dog is a significant commitment that requires handlers to invest time in training and bonding with their dogs, as well as managing their emotional and physical needs to ensure a mutually beneficial relationship.
Understanding the legal rights pertaining to psychiatric service dogs, including accessibility in public spaces and accommodations, is crucial. Handlers should educate themselves about local and national laws that protect their rights and those of their service dogs.
Obtaining a psychiatric service dog involves careful consideration of the therapeutic benefits versus the potential stress on the animal. Look for reputable programs that train dogs to assist individuals with PTSD, while also prioritizing the welfare of the dogs and properly matching dogs and handlers.
The integration of psychiatric service dogs into mental health care offers more than just companionship; it opens a dynamic pathway for healing and managing PTSD symptoms. As we continue to explore and understand the unique bond between humans and animals, it becomes increasingly clear that dogs are not only cherished pets but also invaluable partners.
Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian and holistic health coach for pets, as well as the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.
by Christine Volkmer
The motto of Equest: “Humans. Horses. Hope”, is the reality of the nonprofit’s mission since 1981, where people of all ages, abilities and goals work with horses to capitalize on the ability within them to overcome disability. The impact of the human-horse connection transforms lives through therapeutic horsemanship as clients from 2 to 90 take their first steps, speak their first words and even overcome the grip of anxiety through equine-assisted programs.
For adolescents impacted by COVID, veterans, first responders and others, the rise of mental health crises is at an all-time high. At Equest, equine-facilitated mental health counseling brings relief and new coping skills to those seeking help. Horses can assist in the process of addressing emotional challenges such as anger, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and dissociative or other emotional problems. In general, being around horses, whether riding, grooming or just being in their presence, increases empathy, self-confidence, social skills, trust and emotional regulation. It helps establish routines, structure and a sense of responsibility; all skills that are transferable to daily life.
Equine-facilitated mental health sessions involve a client and a licensed mental health professional, an equine specialist that keeps the horse and client safe and help interpret the horse’s feedback to the client, and a horse (or even a herd). Horses are relationship-oriented and intuitively sense and honestly respond to the emotions of those around them, which makes the horse-human bond a powerful healing mechanism. Sometimes a horse will step in to ‘protect’ clients when they are feeling vulnerable or try to regulate the anxious client by breathing, yawning or nuzzling.
According to Dr. Yuval Neria, a professor of medical psychology and director of the Columbia University PTSD program, “One must build trust with a horse for it to warm to you. Both clients dealing with trauma and horses are preoccupied with ongoing concerns about trust and safely. This innovative therapy facilitates bonding, overcoming fear and reestablishing confidence.”
Horses have similar emotions to humans—they can get stressed out, happy or impatient— or be present and focus solely on what is going on around them. They do not think about the future or the past, or judge people based on what they look like or what experiences they may have had. That is why equine-assisted services are so popular. Beyond working as “co-therapists” for emotional issues, horses are excellent for occupational, physical and speech therapy.
Christine Volkmer is the director of advancement at Equest. For more information, call 214794-5498 or visit Equest.org.
by Chris Capozzoli
The relationship between the body’s microbiomes and breast health is a promising area of research that holds the potential to revolutionize breast care. By adopting a multidisciplinary approach that considers the gut, oral and breast microbiomes, healthcare providers can offer more personalized and effective strategies for preventing and treating breast-related conditions. As research in this field continues to evolve, it will likely lead to new insights and innovations that will further improve women’s health outcomes.
Breast health is a complex aspect of women’s healthcare that goes beyond routine screenings and self-examinations. It involves a deeper understanding of the body’s internal ecosystems, particularly the microbiomes— complex communities of microorganisms that inhabit various parts of the body. While much attention has been given to the gut microbiome, emerging research highlights the significance of the oral and breast microbiomes in maintaining breast health. A multidisciplinary approach that integrates these insights can lead to more effective prevention and treatment strategies for breast-related conditions.
Comprising trillions of bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microorganisms, the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in overall health, including breast health. It influences the immune system, metabolism and in-
flammation, all of which are critical in preventing diseases like breast cancer.
One of the most significant ways the gut microbiome affects breast health is through the regulation of estrogen levels. The gut contains a group of bacteria known as the estrobolome, which is responsible for metabolizing estrogens. An imbalance in the gut microbiome, or dysbiosis, can lead to altered estrogen metabolism, potentially increasing the risk of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer.
This highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy gut microbiome through a balanced diet rich in fiber, prebiotics and probiotics. Foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fermented products like yogurt and kefir can help support a diverse and balanced gut microbiome, thus promot-
ing breast health.
The gut and breast are also connected via the entero-mammary pathway, a route by which gut-derived bacteria can migrate to the breast tissue. This connection suggests that a healthy gut microbiome may directly influence the composition of the breast microbiome, reducing the risk of breast infections and cancer.
The oral microbiome is an equally important, yet often overlooked, player in breast health. Our mouth harbors a diverse community of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses and fungi that contribute to oral and systemic health. Recent research suggests a link between the oral microbiome and breast cancer risk.
Periodontal disease, a condition characterized by chronic inflammation of the gums due to bacterial infection, has been associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. This connection is believed to stem from the migration of oral bacteria into the bloodstream, where they can trigger systemic inflammation and immune responses that may promote the development of cancer. Certain oral bacteria have been found in breast tissue, indicating that the oral microbiome may also directly influence breast health.
Maintaining a healthy oral microbiome is essential for reducing the risk of systemic
inflammation and potentially lowering the risk of breast cancer. Good oral hygiene practices such as regular brushing, flossing and dental check-ups are critical in preventing periodontal disease and supporting overall health. Dietary choices that promote a balanced oral microbiome such as limiting sugar intake and consuming probiotics can also enhance breast health.
Although it is a relatively new area of study, the breast microbiome has shown that breast tissue itself hosts a diverse array of bacteria, some of which may have protective roles against breast cancer. For example, Lactobacillus, commonly found in healthy breast tissue, is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. By contrast, higher levels of pathogenic bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, have been observed in breast cancer tissue, suggesting that microbial imbalances in the breast may contribute to disease development.
Understanding the breast microbiome’s role in health and disease is crucial for develop ing new preventive and therapeutic strat egies. For instance, enhancing the breast microbiome through probiotic therapies or lifestyle interventions could potentially reduce the risk of breast cancer or improve treatment outcomes.
As our understanding of the microbiomes’ role in breast health grows, incorporating microbial screenings and targeted therapies into routine breast care may become in creasingly important, especially the use of probiotics or other interventions to enhance the health of the gut, oral and breast micro biomes.
Chris Capozzoli is an OsteoStrong Sports Per formance specialist, CEO/co-founder of Real People Giving (RPG), a national speaker and coach. He will be speaking in Dallas on Sept. 23 at the Thermography Center Dallas Well ness Summit. See ad on page 25.
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Sunday, September 1
PlantCon Dallas – Includes workshops, presentations, various plant varieties, community building and more. Marriott Dallas Allen Hotel & Convention Center, 777 Watters Creek Blvd, Allen. PlantCon. org/dallas-home.
Labor Day Family Fun Weekend – Sept 1-2. 8am-5pm. Enjoy a family fun-packed weekend with live music, activities and more. Included with admission. The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas. 214-515-6500. DallasArboretum.org.
Wednesday, September 4
Deep Dive into North Texas EcoTone – 11am-1pm. Enjoy astounding photography by skilled naturalists of hardwood bottomland forests and Eastern Cross Timbers, soaring limestone escarpments, lush wetlands, and rare remnants of Blackland and Fort Worth Prairies. North Haven Gardens, 7700 Northaven Rd, Dallas. Tinyurl.com/2sy53uh6.
Trinity Metro and Texrail – 7-8pm. Learn about Grapevine’s rail service and history, its benefits and future prospects. Grapevine Public. Library, 1201 Municipal Way, Grapevine. KeepGrapevineBeautiful.org/texrail.
Saturday, September 7
Ned Fritz, Founder of Nature Preserva-
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. 972-248-9126. 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.
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. 214-8265683. 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
tion in Texas – 11am-12:30pm. Speakers: Amy Martin and Kristi Kerr Leonard, Ned Fritz Legacy. An inspiring presentation about Ned Fritz, Texas’ greatest environmentalist, woven with excerpts of his nature poetry and photos of places he protected. J. Erik Jonsson Central Library, 1515 Young St, Dallas. Tinyurl.com/2w9h99fy.
Thursday, September 12
Fall into Gardening: Tips to Grow on –6-7:30pm. Learn the best approach to planting and maintenance without the overuse of chemicals (or your time) so you can reap the rewards of a greener environment. Online & in-person. Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth. Register: RootedIn. com.
Saturday, September 14
Trinity River Book Festival: Environmental Authors – 8am-2pm. Features authors from a variety of genres, including environmental authors and Green Source DFW reporters Amy Martin, author of Wild DFW: Exploring the Amazing Nature Around Dallas-Fort Worth and Michael Smith, author of Mindfulness in Texas Nature. Trinity River Pavilion, 2201 W 7th St, Fort Worth. TrinityRiverBookFest. com.
Dallas Arboretum’s 7th Annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration – Sept 14-15. 8am-5pm. Features Quinceañera fashion
Shambhala Meditation Center, 2695 Villa Creek Dr, Ste B146, Farmers Branch. Dallas.Shambhala.org.
Greater Dallas Organic Garden Club –2:30pm. 4th Sun (Jan-Sept). Each meeting includes a special speaker presentation covering many topics of interest to local gardeners. Free. North Haven Gardens, 7700 Northaven Rd, Dallas. 214363-5316. gdogc.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. 972-432-7871. DallasMeditationCenter.com.
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. 972-432-
show, dance and musical performances, a vendor market and cooking demonstrations. Included with admission. The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas. 214-515-6500. DallasArboretum.org.
Saturday, September 21
Digging In: Soils, Site and Bed Preparation – 9-10:30am. Class provides the foundation your garden and landscape needs for long-term success. Online. Register: SaveDallasWater.com.
Thursday, September 26
Texas Yard Makeover – 6-7:30pm. Turf grass can require large amounts of water to keep it green and happy. Instead, pick some areas to add life and color with Texas plants and other features to turn your yard into a beautiful landscape that will not only help you save water but look good too. Online. Register: SaveDallasWater.com.
Saturday, October 5
A Wild Hike with Amy Martin – 10am12:30pm. You’ve read about Eastern Cross Timbers in Wild DFW, Now experience the finest remnant of it in North Texas. Sheri Capehart Nature Preserve, 5201 Bowman Springs Rd, Arlington. Tinyurl. com/yeyjbtm3.
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. 972432-7871. 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 mu-
sic. 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 – 6:30pm. A safe community to find support, hope and freedom from the struggles and realities that we all face through transitions,
Sunday, September 1
Guided Bird Walk – 7:30-10:30am. Birders of all levels welcome. Free. Details: ConnemaraConservancy.org.
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 15min guided meditation. $10/session. DallasMeditates.com.
Saturdays
Morning Bird Walk – 7:30-8:15pm. 3rd 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.
Pkwy, Plano. Register: LiveGreenInPlano. obsres.com.
Saturday, September 7
Sunday, September 8
Wednesday, September 4
Shade Gardening – 12-1pm, webinar; 7-8:30pm, in-person. Learn how to plan and plant an attractive oasis of foliage and texture to delight the eye, even under the arching canopy of mature trees. Environmental Education Center, 4116 W Plano
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BioBlitz – 6:30am-1pm. Join us for some citizen science to survey wildlife, and have a blast with your family and friends. Free. Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge, 6465 Refuge Rd, Sherman. 903-7862826. FriendsOfHagerman.com.
Butterfly Garden Walk – 9-11am. Garden docents on hand to help identify the Texas native plants and visiting butterflies. Free. Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge, 6465 Refuge Rd, Sherman. 903786-2826. FriendsOfHagerman.com.
Tree Care Workshop – 9am-12pm. An extensive workshop on tree care and preservation presented by a team of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension agents and local tree care specialists. $20/ in-person, $10/online. The Landing at Myers Park & Event Center, 7117 Co Rd 166, McKinney. ccmgatx.org.
Thrive Health Expo – 10am-2pm. Enjoy vendors from different healthcare professionals, including physical and mental health. There will be health screenings, flu shots, door prizes and more. Free. Thrive, 1950 S Valley Pkwy, Lewisville. LewisvilleThrive.com.
Jurassic Night Out – 7-11pm. Join us for an epic adults-only evening under the stars featuring the original 90s blockbuster Jurassic Park. $19/member, $25/ nonmember. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Pl, McKinney. HeardMuseum.org.
Meet the Meadow Introductory Trail Walk – 9-10am. An introductory trail walk which is appropriate for families and those new to The Meadow. Led by Texas Master Naturalists and Meadow Volunteers. Free. Details: ConnemaraConservancy.org.
Saturday, September 14
Plano Property Maintenance – 9am12pm. Learn how to maintain your home and property. Neighborhood Services Building, 777 E 15th St, Plano. Register: LiveGreenInPlano.obsres.com.
Friday, September 20
Collin County Fall Home & Garden Show – Sept 20-22. 2-6pm, Fri; 10am-6pm, Sat; 11am-5pm, Sun. Collin County Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer questions on gardening and landscaping. Free. 200 E Stacy Rd, Ste 1350, Allen. ccmgatx.org.
Saturday, September 21
A Walk in the Park: Fall Edition – 9am12pm. Stroll each of the Earth-Kind Gardens. Each garden and area will have Master Gardeners ready and willing to answer your questions. Free. The Gardens at Myers Park & Event Center, 7117 County Rd 166, McKinney. ccmgatx.org.
Nature Connection Walk – 9:30am12pm. Inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, each walk is an immersive time spent connecting with nature in our wildlife sanctuary. $25. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Pl, McKinney. 972-562-5566. HeardMuseum.org.
Native Texas Butterfly House & Garden – Thru Sept 28. 9am-5pm. Walk among free-flying native butterflies and other pollinators. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, 1 Nature Pl, McKinney. 972-562-5566. HeardMuseum.org.
Grapevine Farmers Market – 9am-6pm, Sun; 8am-8pm, Mon-Sat. Eat healthy with locally-grown produce and products. 520 S Main St, Ste 203, Grapevine. 817-5277446. FarmersMarketOfGrapevine.com.
Frisco Fresh Market – 10am-4pm. Also Sat, 8am-4pm. Frisco Fresh Market, 9215 John W Elliott Dr, Frisco. 844-776-2753. 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. 214-4530218. 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. 940-372-0343. 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.
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. 972-792-9900. Entelechea.org.
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. 903786-2826. 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 – 10am-12pm. 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: 972-442-7607. BPRaptorCenter.org.
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 AND INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE CENTER
1320 W. Walnut Hill Ln, Irving 18601 LBJ #501, Mesquite 972-444-0660
DrChapa.com
team of Doctors have trained and graduated from the best Universities and Hospitals in China, S. Korea, Taiwan and Japan. We use the best of Eastern Medi cine using Micro & Laser Acupuncture and herbal medicine for those that are in pain and suffering and have amazing success rates.
THE KAVA BARS
14856 Preston Rd #212, Dallas 469-608-5050
DALLAS COLLEGE
1601 South Lamar, Dallas 214-378-1824
DCCCD.edu
109 Industrial St, Denton 940-320-6015
LoveTheKavaBar.com
Discover relaxation and community at The Kava Bars in Dallas and Denton. A serene environment with a variety of kava-based drinks, it's the perfect spot to unwind, connect, and experience the calming effects of kava. Live music, open mic nights, and special events that make every visit unique. Exerience a different kind of Happy Hour.
CERESET PLANO
1033 E 15th St, Plano, 75074 214-892-2273
Plano.Cereset.com
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.
Dr. Barrier integrates mindbody-spirit into his psychotherapy practice. He specializes in Daleth Transformational Breathwork, Energy Healing techniques, and Hypnotherapy to assist clients in releasing old patterns and creating a better life. Dr. Barrier has been a licensed psychotherapist for 30+ years.
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.
FOSSIL RIM WILDLIFE CENTER
2299 County Road 2008, Glen Rose 254-897-2960
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.
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.
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.
2540 Walnut Hill Ln, Dallas 75229 800-637-8337/214-902-2429
AskAdmissions@parker.edu Parker.edu
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.
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.
POLARAID HEALTH
PolaraidHealth.com
450-486-7888
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 5.
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 37.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 5.
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 11.
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
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.
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.
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.
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
4503 West Lovers Lane, Dallas 214-351-5681 CelebrationRestaurant.com Food You Can Feel Good About!
ORIGINAL farm-to-table restaurant
The original farm-to-table restaurant in north Texas, including catering and takeout Market. With a full -service bar, we celebrate years of serving delicious, affordable, locally sourced food. We offer gluten free alternatives, clean water raised salmon and sustainably raised seafood, cage free poultry and 100% grass fed beef. Come in today, order in or take-out. See ad, page 27.
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.
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 ads, pages 24 & 25.
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 37.
CRESCENT YOGA STUDIO & ECO-BOUTIQUE
Dawn Harris, RYT500 306 W Ave F, Midlothian 214-817-8597
CrescentYogaStudio.com
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.
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.
Bexar St. | Dallas 75215
W. Main St. | Coppell 75019 DALLAS FARMERS MARKET 1010 S. Pearl Expy. | Dallas 75201 Elrod’s Cost Plus 1524 NW 25th St. | Fort Worth 76164
907 E. Ledbetter Dr. | Dallas 75216
FARMERS MARKET
S. Knowles Dr. | Saginaw 76179
Markets 1212 S. Ayers Ave. | Fort Worth 76105
WORTH FARMERS MARKET 7005 Charbonneau Rd. | Lake Worth 76135
