Natural Awakenings is printed on partially recycled and fully recyclable newsprint with black soy ink.
Publisher’s Letter
Hello Friends,
Welcome to the August issue of Finding Your Tribe. If you’ve ever been the go-to party planner, the one who remembers everyone’s birthdays and ensures no one is alone during the holidays, you’re in good company. I’ve always had that “the more, the merrier” vibe. But then life happened—I got married, had kids and suddenly, planning anything beyond a Minnie Mouse-themed birthday party seemed like a distant memory. Friend circles change as we move through different life stages, from our children’s phases to our personal growth journeys.
As my kids have entered their tween years, I’ve had the chance to lift my head out of the sand (sort of) and reflect. Sometimes, it’s a bit sad to see how friendships have drifted apart. I’ve felt grief for the connections lost and even guilt for not nurturing friendships as I perhaps should have. There’s also the disappointment when a friendship you counted on just isn’t there for you. It’s hard not to take it personally, but with (cough cough) age, I’ve realized it’s often not about me. Everyone has their own journey. That old saying, “Every relationship is for a reason, a season, or a lifetime”, rings true.
Nowadays, when I plan a gathering, the circle of friends is smaller, and as we get older, making new friends becomes more challenging. That brings us to this issue’s theme: Finding Your Tribe.
Our feature story, “The Power of Community: Finding a Path to Meaningful Connection,” explores how community remains a powerful force for personal and collective well-being, despite society’s increasing emphasis on individualism. Loneliness, as detrimental to health as smoking or obesity, underscores the importance of meaningful connections.
Don’t miss “The Power of Positive Intentions: Transforming Your Life.” In our fast-paced world, positive intentions stand as a beacon of hope and transformation, significantly shaping our experiences and outcomes.
We also have a powerful conversation with Sahadeva Torpy about “A New World of Peace Concert.” This free concert will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. on August 29 at The Church of the Holy Trinity on Rittenhouse Square, in Philadelphia. London-based musical director Sahadeva Torpy shares his insights on this inspiring event.
Our “Pet Posse” article reminds us that, much like the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child,” it also takes a village to raise a pet. Pet ownership involves a holistic approach, including training, socialization, health care and emotional well-being.
Lastly, don’t miss our “In Search of the Healthiest Diet: Sustenance and Habits Inspired by Blue Zones” article. And since August is the high season for the juiciest peaches, stop by your local farmers market, grab some peaches and enjoy this month’s magazine.
Cheers to the sweet life!
The 1111Experience in Peru
Philadelphia Organizations
Participate in Clear the Shelters Campaign
As the Clear the Shelters campaign marks its 10th anniversary in August, Philadelphia organizations are supporting the nationwide initiative aimed at promoting pet adoptions. The campaign, which surpassed 1 million adoptions in 2023, continues to make a significant impact in finding homes for pets in need.
ACCT Philly participated in the BISSELL Pet Foundation’s Empty the Shelters event from July 8 through 31. Adoption fees were reduced to $10 for all pets. Pet Supplies Plus Fishtown will host the Clear the Shelters Adoption event from noon to 3 p.m., August 11. Attendees can meet adoptable dogs and support the New Leash organization.
Additionally, PAWS will hold its Paw it Forward campaign from August 6 to 8, inviting the community to support Philadelphia’s pets and families. Participants can “pay it forward” by becoming heroes or protectors for rescued and community pets. Supporters at the Puppy Love level and higher will receive an exclusive invitation to the Paw it Forward Summer Soirée on August 22 at a private Center City venue.
Location for Aug. 11 event: 2475 Aramingo Ave. For more information about ACCT Philly, visit www.acctphilly.org. For more information about Pet Supplies Plus Fishtown, visit www.PetSuppliesPlus. com/store/pa/philadelphia/4223-fishtown/4223. For more information about PAWS, visit www.PhillyPaws.org.
Passion and Pleasure Embodiment Coach to Host
Divine Goddess Awakening Event
Teja Valentin, RN, a coach specializing in passion and pleasure embodiment, welcomes women to participate in Awaken the Divine Goddess Within You, a transformative event taking place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on August 9 at Live in Joy Yoga and Wellness, in Audubon.
During the ceremony, participants will engage in four empowering practices aimed at invoking goddess energy: meditation, celestial communication, a fire ceremony and a womb blessing. According to Valentin, each component plays a unique role in fostering personal growth and enhancing self-awareness.
“By creating intentional spaces where women can gather, we encourage connection and self-expression,” remarks Valentin. “These rituals provide structured opportunities to release emotions, facilitating healing and promoting introspection.”
The evening will conclude with activities including dancing, sound healing and journaling. Valentin underscores the significance of these rituals in integrating different facets of one’s identity.
Cost: $33 per person. Location: 118 W. Merchant St. For more information or to register, contact Valentin at 856-952-7841 or Teja@TejaValentin.com or visit www.TejaValentin.com.
Photo courtesy of phillypaws.org
Teja Valentin, RN
Philadelphia Event to Equip Local Kids with Essential School Supplies
On August 22, Cradles to Crayons will hold its Ready for Learn ing Backpack-A-Thon at Lincoln Financial Field, in Philadelphia. This high-energy event will bring together more than 500 corporate volunteers to pack 55,000 backpacks with school supplies for local children in need.
Backpack-A-Thon is the signature fundraising event for Cradles to Crayons’ Ready for Learning initiative, which ensures that children arrive at school on the first day prepared and excited to learn. Vol unteers will fill backpacks assembly-line style with age-appropriate
www.twinvalleyhealthandwellness.com/event
Improved immune function Relief of pain
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HALF-PRICE ENERGY
HOURS 12-8PM WEDNESDAYS. *Minimum 2 hour session
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Lifestyle, Nutrition and Bone Density
According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, bones that contain more minerals are denser, stronger and less likely to break. With age or certain medical conditions, bones can become less dense, and osteoporosis can develop, causing them to become weak and brittle.
A study published in the journal Nutrients evaluated the role of lifestyle and nutrition on women’s bone mineral density. The study included a cross-section of more than 850 healthy premenopausal Saudi women divided into two age groups: 20-to-30-year-olds and 30-to-40-year-olds. Participants had their bone mineral density measured, provided a blood sample and self-reported sociodemographic, medical history, lifestyle, diet and physical activity information. The results showed that adequate vitamin D levels, physical activity and proper nutrition positively influence bone mineral density values, which can impact bone health later in life.
Choosing the Best Sunscreens for Healthy Skin
As we become more conscious of what we put on our skin, the demand for chemical-free sunscreens has skyrocketed. Traditional sunscreens often contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can disrupt hormones and harm marine life. Fortunately, many healthier alternatives provide excellent sun protection without these risks.
Mineral-based sunscreens are the top choice for those seeking chemical-free options. These sunscreens use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients. They sit on the skin’s surface, reflecting UV rays rather than absorbing them. Brands like Badger, Blue Lizard and Thinksport offer high-quality mineral-based sunscreens free from synthetic chemicals.
Natural Remedy for Radiation-Induced Dermatitis
Dermatitis affects 95 percent of patients undergoing radiation therapy. According to a review published in Drugs in Context, the symptoms of radiation-induced dermatitis include pain, ulceration, swelling, itching, burning and physical and psychological discomfort. In some cases, opportunistic infections may also arise. While initial treatments involve moisturizers, dressings and antihistamines, more severe cases are treated with topical corticosteroids and antibiotics.
Seventy breast cancer patients undergoing radiation treatment participated in a 2024 randomized, double-blind study published in Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications to test the effectiveness of Alantel, a topical body cream that contains concentrated levels of aloe vera, chamomile and thyme. Half the group applied Alantel during the four-week trial, and the control group applied a standard moisturizing emollient cream that contained beeswax. The Alantel group had significantly lower incidence of lesions and a significantly lower duration of dermatitis than the control group.
mineral ingredients with nourishing, natural oils like coconut, jojoba and sunflower. These sunscreens are not only gentle on the skin, but also packed with antioxidants. Raw Elements and All Good are reputable brands offering organic, chemical-free sunscreens.
When choosing a chemical-free sunscreen, look for labels like “non-nano,” “broad-spectrum,” and “reef-safe.” Non-nano means the particles are larger, preventing them from being absorbed into the skin. Broad-spectrum ensures protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Reef-safe indicates the product won’t harm coral reefs.
Another great option is organic sunscreens, which often combine
By opting for chemical-free sunscreens, we can enjoy the sun safely while protecting our health and the environment.
Xurzon from Getty Images Pro/piotr_malczyk from Getty Images/CanvaPro
Layer-Lab/areeya_ann from Getty Images/ lena5 from Getty
Embrace the Outdoors
Unleashing the Mental Health Benefits of Summer
As the summer sun graces us with its warm embrace, it’s the perfect time to step outside and soak in the myriad mental health benefits nature offers. The great outdoors is not just a feast for the eyes, but also a sanctuary for the mind, providing a natural remedy for stress and anxiety.
Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a hike through the woods or simply lounging in the backyard, the fresh air and greenery can help clear our minds and uplift our spirits. The rhythmic sounds of birds chirping and leaves rustling can soothe our senses, creating a meditative experience that promotes relaxation and mental clarity.
Sunlight is another natural booster. Exposure to sunlight increases the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of happiness and well-being. This can be especially beneficial for those who experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or general mood dips. A simple act of basking in the sun for 15 to 30 minutes a day can significantly enhance mood and energy levels.
Moreover, engaging in physical activities outdoors, such as cycling, swimming or gardening, releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. These activities both improve physical health and foster a sense of accomplishment and joy, further enhancing mental well-being.
Social interactions, often more frequent in outdoor settings, play a crucial role in mental health. Picnics, outdoor yoga sessions and beach gatherings offer opportunities to connect with others, reducing feelings of loneliness and fostering a sense of community.
This summer, let nature be your therapy. Step outside, breathe deeply and embrace the healing powers of the outdoors. Our minds and souls will provide thanks.
Refreezing the Arctic
Human-caused warming of the air, oceans and land is heating the Arctic region faster than anywhere else on the planet. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration recently reported the warmest surface air temperature ever observed in the Arctic during the region’s sixth-warmest year on record. Scientists agree that the loss of Arctic ice will increase the rate of warming for the rest of the planet.
To combat the issue, geoengineers are experimenting with ways to slow the melt in conjunction with efforts to reduce carbon output and recapture carbon already found in the atmosphere. One experiment by Arctic Reflections, a Dutch company, involves pumping water onto the surface of existing ice sheets to form a protective layer of new ice. The inspiration for their experiment comes from a method the Dutch have used for decades to make ice for skating marathons. Another experiment uses reflective glass beads scattered on top of snow and ice to reflect the sun’s rays. In early testing, the beads reflected 30 percent more sunlight than the snow alone.
Designer Handbags Use Mushroom Leather
Mycelium, the soft, dense and strong roots of fungi, are being used in mycotextiles, a potential replacement for leather. MycoWorks, a South Carolina-based biotechnology company, is working on a scalable approach to grow uniform sheets of interwoven mycelium that are customizable for varying thickness, surface features and dimensions. The goal is to produce a more ethical, environmentally sustainable and efficient alternative to animal leather. The fungus is grown in sterilized agricultural waste such as sawdust and bran, and the growth process ends when the sheets of mycelium are peeled off the sawdust block, at which point they can be tanned and crafted into a range of marketable products. To date, MycoWorks materials have been used in designer handbags for Hermès, making them biodegradable at the end of their life cycle.
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Natalia Kopyltsova from Getty Images/CanvaPro
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A Conversation with Sahadeva Torpy
A New World of Peace Concert
Afree concert, entitled “A New World of Peace,” will be performed from 7 to 9 p.m. on August 29 at The Church of the Holy Trinity on Rittenhouse Square, in Philadelphia. Sahadeva Torpy, the London-based musical director, shares his insights.
How did you embark on your latest concert series, A New World of Peace?
I’ve directed many concerts over the years, but after the whole experience we’ve had with COVID-19, I had a kind of inspiration one morning to create something new, to share Sri Chinmoy’s vision of peace and hope for the world for these difficult times that we’re in.
Everyone is thinking about climate change and the wars going on, and there is so much mental anxiety. We are suffering from a lack of peace and also from a lack of oneness. We’re all connected from the Source where we come from—all human beings, animals, nature, everything. We need to reconnect and find this oneness.
Sri Chinmoy has such a beautiful vision of how we can progress and change the world for the better in so many different ways. A big part of that is each of us discovering who we are as a person, finding a way to release all the anxieties and problems and pressures, and going into another part of ourselves that has joy, beauty, happiness and peace, and bringing that forward.
In all his music and writings—he was so creatively prolific—Sri Chinmoy gave us the tools to change our lives and have a much more fulfilling human experience on this planet. This was my inspiration and I thought I would put this together as a concert—the music, as well as visuals with his amazing poetry, and some guided meditation—and hopefully inspire people and share it.
Why are you bringing this to Philadelphia?
We had our first tour in the UK and Ireland last November, and we had a very positive reaction from audiences. Now I am thrilled to bring the concert to Philadelphia. The Sri Chinmoy Centre has a small team that offers free meditation classes and events in Philly, and they invited us. Sri
Sahadeva Torpy
Chinmoy loved Philadelphia—he called it the “spiritual capital of America”. It’s such a significant place to bring people together for a transformative musical experience.
How would you describe Sri Chinmoy’s music, if people are not familiar with it? What makes it special for you?
His music is coming, from my understanding, from a very high source of creativity and consciousness. For me to describe it, I feel I could never do it justice, but it basically connects right to the core of your being. It allows you to calm your mind down and open your spiritual heart and allows your own divinity inside yourself to come forward. Music offers us that opportunity to feel a higher level of consciousness. I feel that Sri Chinmoy’s music is for everybody, absolutely everybody. I just have the opportunity to arrange it in my way, as he encouraged me to do.
We’re in talks with people about taking this on tour in other countries. That’s my hope and I feel Sri Chinmoy encouraging me from where he is. I feel like he is saying do this, share it, offer light, offer hope to the world. I feel really privileged to have this inspiration and I’m determined to go out there and offer something beautiful for people all around the world.
Condensed from a longer interview. For free concert tickets, music samples, meditation workshops and more, visit www.NewWorldOfPeace.com or PhilaMeditation.org
The Power of Community
Finding a Path to Meaningful Connection
by Thais Harris, BCHN
Despite society’s increasing emphasis on individualism, the concept of community remains a powerful force for personal and collective well-being. Loneliness is detrimental to both mental and physical health and comparable to smoking or obesity in terms of risk factors. Among older adults, isolation is associated with an increased probability of dementia.
In his book Project Unlonely: Healing Our Crisis of Disconnection, Dr. Jeremy Noble discusses the public health and economic impacts of widespread seclusion, as well as the importance of building meaningful connections. He advocates making loneliness screening a routine part of health care and prescribing social activities such as museum visits, classes and nature walks for patients. These measures have been
effectively used in the United Kingdom.
There is a growing movement that encourages us to find our tribe—those that resonate with our own core values, interests and lifestyle. While historically associated with Indigenous groups, a “tribe” is defined as a social division consisting of families or communities linked by social, economic, religious or blood ties, with a common culture and dialect. The point is to surround ourselves with supportive individuals that uplift us and provide a sense of belonging.
Multigenerational Communion
Family is, in a sense, our original tribe, serving a crucial role in our sense of belonging throughout life. Regardless of interpersonal dynamics, maintaining
consistent connection with relatives can ease loneliness and improve longevity and other health outcomes. In the world’s Blue Zones, where people live the longest and have a better overall quality of life, the happiest centenarians build their lives around their families, and multigenerational households are common.
To remain anchored in our heritage, it is essential to regularly share moments and activities with kin, enjoying family meals, holiday parties, game nights, walks around the neighborhood or even living room hangouts. Simply spending time together allows us to share family stories, learn from each other and create traditions. Outside the family, there are many ways to find or create a tribe of cheerful acquaintances and deeply held friendships that form a safety net to shield us from drifting into isolation.
Serving Others
Volunteering is a powerful way to engage in activities that align with our passions and values while also connecting with like-minded people and helping a cause or deserving group of individuals. One example is Volunteers in Medicine (VIM), founded in 2003, which brings together 70 medical professionals and approximately 100 community stakeholders that volunteer their time to provide free health care for the uninsured people of the Berkshires, in Massachusetts. While the practitioners treat patients—in-person and online—the others serve as interpreters, drivers and receptionists. The generosity of these individuals addresses an important need in the community and keeps people out of hospitals.
“By engaging in VIM’s mission, volunteers find purpose and meaning through the act of giving back, enhancing their own lives while improving others,” shares VIM Executive Director Ilana Steinhauer. “The opportunity to serve the community not only fulfills a personal desire to help those in need, but also fosters a deep sense of connection and community among volunteers. This camaraderie and shared mission enrich the
volunteers’ lives, creating a ripple effect of positivity that strengthens the entire community fabric, making it a cornerstone of community and personal development.”
Another example is nonprofit Citizen University, which equips Americans to be cultural catalysts. Their Local Civic Collaboratory aims to shift the paradigm of success from individual achievement to shared triumph. Through collaborative gatherings, participants are empowered to address local issues, launch educational initiatives and spark artistic endeavors while relishing in deep conversations, forging meaningful bonds and launching networks of unified action.
Making Deep Connections
Coming together around shared beliefs or devotional practices can be another avenue to step away from seclusion and into a loving fraternity. Some people with shared values and goals choose to live with each other in what is known as intentional communities, many of which emphasize sustainability, cooperation and mutual support. The Foundation for Intentional Community offers an online directory to find the right living situation based on multiple criteria, including geographical location, community type, dietary preferences, educational styles, religious or spiritual beliefs and renewable energy sources.
The Kindness of Strangers
When we are out and about, we encounter people we don’t know—strangers in supermarket aisles, bank lines or walking their dogs in the local park. Instead of passing by without acknowledging them, we have the choice to say hello or exchange pleasantries. On his podcast “Hidden Brain”, Shankar Vedantam explores how these tiny encounters can impact our lives. Smiling at people in the street, expressing gratitude for small acts of kindness or complimenting someone’s style elevates both parties. Studies by Amit Kumar, assistant professor of marketing and psychology at the University of Texas at Austin, and Nicholas Epley, professor of behavioral science at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business,
highlight the beneficial, long-term impact of small acts of kindness and positive interactions on recipients and givers.
Bonding Online and In Person
If friendships were lost during the pandemic, rebuilding a tribe will require intentionality and creativity. Reaching out with purpose to create community might just be what saves us and the planet. When we feel a sense of belonging, we can collaborate for the common good and boost our ability to protect nature, innovate and find solutions for the world’s problems. How we network is limited only by our imagination: Take classes at the local library, community college or arts organization; find a fun activity on MeetUp.com; or form a group to make new friends that share a common interest.
While online tribes can offer accessibility and a broader reach, thus facilitating connections with people from different geographies and backgrounds, face-to-face interactions are essential to our well-being. Holistic psychologist Victoria Kar shares, “Never in history has humanity been more disconnected from each other than now. The predominance of urban lifestyles creates barriers for deep social connections, and technology creates a false sense of belonging—where we can reach someone on the other side of the world on a screen— yet have no one to hold next to us.”
In-person communities provide a more heartfelt sense of fellowship. When we are present, we emit energetic fields, and the heart radiates perhaps the most powerful energy. Studies conducted by the HeartMath Institute have shown that the heart’s magnetic field can be detected by other individuals up to five feet away, igniting our sense of belonging in a way that is not possible online.
In his recent advisory report, “Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation,” U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Hallegere Murthy notes that, across age groups, people are spending less time with each other in person than two decades ago, and this is most pronounced among young people aged 15 to 24 that are engaging in 70 percent
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fewer interactions with friends. Murthy points out, “The impact of this lack of social connection can be felt in our schools, workplaces and organizations, where performance, productivity and engagement are diminished.”
The report outlines six recommendations to enhance social connection, including:
• Urging for greater social infrastructure at parks, libraries and public programs
• Enacting pro-connection public policies at every level of government such as access to public transport and paid family leave
• Mobilizing the health sector to address needs stemming from isolation
• Reforming digital environments
• Investing in research to deepen our understanding of social isolation
• Cultivating a culture of connection
In his book Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World, Murthy identifies three types of connections that play a crucial role in our lives: intimate (close friends and family), relational (friends and acquaintances) and collective (communities). Factors such as work culture, social media and urbanization can hinder meaningful connections, contributing to a growing sense of isolation.
As a solution, he emphasizes the importance of small, consistent actions such as active listening, expressing gratitude and engaging with community. True connection is a source of healing. The Surgeon General urges, “Answer that phone call from a friend. Make time to share a meal. Listen without the distraction of your phone. Perform an act of service. Express yourself authentically.”
Finding a tribe can significantly impact our health and happiness, providing support, joy and inclusion. The connections we choose to nurture can enrich our lives in profound ways, ensuring we thrive in body, mind and spirit.
Thais Harris is a board-certified holistic nutritionist, bestselling author and international speaker. Connect at NourishTogether.com
In Search of the Healthiest Diet
Sustenance and Habits Inspired by Blue Zones
by Maya Whitman
The average life expectancy is 77.5 years in the United States, but residents of the Seventh-Day Adventist city, Loma Linda, California, are outliving the rest of the country by 10 years. Like other regions of the world classified as Blue Zones, Loma Linda’s soil and water aren’t sprinkled with magic, but daily lifestyle and dietary habits might be key contributing factors.
Coined by National Geographic explorer and researcher Dan Buettner, the term “Blue Zones” is bestowed upon intriguing corners of the world where people reach their ninth decade and beyond without suffering from chronic illness and disease. While no definitive formula for longevity exists in Loma Linda or any of the other four Blue Zones— Nuoro Province, Sardinia, Italy; Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica; Okinawa, Japan; and Ikaria, Greece—commonalities include staying physically active, eating unprocessed
food and enjoying a vibrant social network.
“By prioritizing physical activity, encouraging plant-based diets and creating spaces that promote social interactions, communities can reduce the incidence of chronic diseases and improve overall well-being,” says Buettner, author of The Blue Zones Kitchen, who found his life’s work traveling the world in search of centenarian secrets.
Delicious Simplicity
In 2023, JAMA Internal Medicine published the findings of a long-term study involving more than 75,000 women and 44,000 men over 36 years, which determined that adherence to one of four plantbased and Mediterranean dietary patterns can lower the risk of premature death. All of the dietary guidelines in this study included whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts and legumes. Growing evidence
suggests that nutrient-dense, unprocessed meals play a major role in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to cardiovascular disease, cancer and diabetes.
“Diets in Blue Zones are predominantly plant-based, with a heavy emphasis on vegetables, fruits, legumes and whole grains. They also eat a variety of beans, which are a staple in their diets and an excellent source of protein and fiber,” Buettner points out, adding that moderate portion sizes, unhurried mealtime and leaving the table when 80 percent full are also highlights of the Blue Zone lifestyle.
Anna Freedman, a natural-food chef, educator and founder of Wholefood Harmony, in London, England, specializes in a health-supporting macrobiotic approach based on ancient Japanese philosophy and developed in the 1920s by George Ohsawa. She says, “Whole foods are essential to health and longevity. Plants capture the sun’s energy, so consuming vegetables, fruits, legumes and grains bestows both nutrition and vibrancy upon the body. These foods are alkalizing and directly nourish the cells, restoring the blood quality and supporting health and longevity.”
Macrobiotic favorites like lentils, chickpeas, whole grains and dark, leafy greens echo Blue Zone dietary models and are believed to promote overall systemic balance. The macrobiotic approach, adds Freedman, “can be adjusted to focus on improving a certain health condition or adapted to meet climate, phase of life or another factor.”
In her work with clients, she encourages the consumption of a wide range of plant ingredients and cooking styles, and even incorporates certain animal proteins, to accommodate client preferences.
Diets that seek to promote a longer, healthier life usually include powerhouse ingredients such as naturally fermented sauerkraut and kimchi, legumes like lentils and split peas, and whole grains, especially barley, millet and oats.
Aamulya from Getty Images/CanvaPro
Social Sustenance
In our modern world, feelings of isolation are reaching epidemic proportions, and in the medical community, loneliness is now seen as a risk factor for mortality that is equal to the effects of obesity, smoking or a sedentary lifestyle. Through Blue Zone research, it is understood that emotional nourishment is vital to good health. According to Buettner, “In Blue Zones, people often engage in regular social interactions, whether it’s through communal meals, faith-based gatherings or simply spending time with neighbors and family.” A table of delicious food surrounded by loved ones is an inspiring way to eat and age gracefully.
For Gladys McGarey, M.D., cofounder of the American Holistic Medical Association, who is still practicing medicine at 103 years of age, our thoughts are also a form of nourishment. “What we feed our minds grows and lives, and we become it,” says the author of the bestseller The Well- Lived Life. “It has to do with love, the whole process of life. Love must be shared to flow, and life is the same. We must not only create community, but live it.”
Freedman sums it up saying, “Eating and togetherness is a key feature of humanity, which is alarmingly in sharp decline. Food was always meant to be enjoyed together, and doing so serves up much more than simply nutrition.”
Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings magazine.
Bean and Squash Tortillas With Papaya Salsa
This recipe calls for the use of nixtamal corn tortillas, a staple in Mexican cooking. The masa is made by cooking and soaking dried corn kernels with calcium hydroxide or another alkali, which significantly increases its nutritional benefits. The tortillas can be made at home from scratch or purchased ready-made. Look for products made with nixtamalized corn masa.
YIELD: 6 SERVINGS
1 small ripe papaya, peeled, halved, seeded and chopped (about 1 cup)
1 small red bell pepper, stemmed, cored and diced (about ½ cup)
¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped
3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
2 Tbsp fresh lime juice
1½ cups canned black or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 medium yellow squash, chopped (about 4 oz)
1 cup corn kernels cut from the ear or frozen kernels, thawed
2 medium carrots, peeled and shredded through the large holes of a box grater
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp ground dried cayenne (or less, to taste)
Lemon Peach Sparkler – Mocktail
Peaches (ripe, soft and sweet; frozen peaches are suitable as well)
Lemons
Simple syrup (optional to make this a bit sweeter)
TOST from GEM Life and Bar
To make the peach juice, first add the chopped peaches and fresh lemon juice to a blender and blend until smooth. Strain the peach and lemon mixture in a fine mesh strainer to remove any bits of skin that the blender could not liquify. After straining, this should yield approximately 2 cups of purée (approximately 2 liters of beverage unless the concentration is changed).
To make a 1-liter drink, add 1 cup of purée to a carafe or pitcher. Top off the carafe with TOST Sparkling. Add mint to garnish.
Recipe provided by Gem Life + Bar, 5 S. Broadway, Pitman, NJ. For more information, call 856-270-5195, visit www.GemLifeCollective.com or follow at @gemlifeandbar.
¼ tsp salt
6 nixtamal corn tortillas
Stir the papaya, bell pepper, cilantro, lime juice and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small bowl. Cover this salsa and set aside at room temperature for up to 4 hours.
Warm 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet set over mediumhigh heat. Add the beans, squash, corn, carrots, cumin, cayenne and salt. Cook, stirring often, until the squash is tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the papaya salsa and set aside off the heat.
Set the oven rack 4 to 6 inches from the broiler element; heat the broiler for a few minutes. Lay the tortillas on a large, lipped baking sheet and brush them with the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Broil until warmed and lightly toasted, about 30 seconds. Transfer the tortillas to serving plates and top each with a sixth of the bean mixture to serve.
Recipe courtesy of Dan Buettner.
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Cross-Brain Fitness
An Integrative Workout for the Mind and Body
by David J. Sautter, NASM (CPT, FNS, PES), ACE (SCS)
Holistic approaches to health and well-being that consider the entire person—body, mind and spirit— are especially effective in cultivating creativity and mental equilibrium. Cross-brain fitness training encourages the use of both the left and right hemispheres of the brain in tandem to improve body and brain function.
One study published in Advances in Physical Education suggests that exercises involving movements across the middle of the body improved the ability to transfer motor skills from one hand to the other, most likely due to improved communication between the two sides of the brain. A 2016 study published in the Journal of Exercise, Nutrition and Biochemistry
found that a 12-week brain health exercise program for seniors improved lower and upper body strength, as well as aerobic endurance, while also increasing cognitive function and levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a protein that plays an important role in neuronal survival and growth.
Engaging Sports
Physical activities that engage both brain hemispheres boost health and enhance creativity by integrating analytical and creative thinking. Team sports such as soccer and basketball are excellent for cross-brain development. They demand strategic planning and logical thinking, activities typically associated with the left hemisphere.
At the same time, they require players to use spatial awareness and creativity—skills linked to the right hemisphere. This combination encourages players to continuously switch between different modes of thinking, thereby improving brain agility and coordination.
“Team sports require players to analyze the game situation, anticipate opponents’ moves and strategize accordingly,” says Danielle Smith, a registered dietitian and personal trainer. “Players need to understand the rules of the game, their positionspecific responsibilities and how to execute plays effectively. Team sports offer a great way for these skills to develop naturally in a fun environment.”
Rock climbing is a prime example of an activity that blends cognitive demands. It requires meticulous problem-solving and advanced planning (left-brain activities) to choose the best routes and techniques for ascent. Simultaneously, climbers must employ spatial awareness and adaptability (right-brain activities) to navigate and adjust to new challenges on the fly, making it a comprehensive brain exercise.
Sailing combines the technical knowledge
and analytical thinking characteristic of the left brain, such as navigating and understanding sailing mechanics, with the intuitive grasp of environmental elements like wind and water, a right-brain activity. Sailors must continuously interpret these dynamic elements and adjust their strategies accordingly, promoting an advanced level of hemispheric integration.
Implementing a Routine
Incorporating a variety of cross-brain training activities into a regular fitness routine is crucial for engaging different parts of the brain and maximizing cognitive development. Here are some tips and strategies for creating an effective cross-brain fitness routine:
• Add variety. Rotate between activities that challenge different cognitive skills. For example, blend team sports, which enhance strategic thinking and cooperation, with individual pursuits like rock climbing or sailing that require problem-solving and adaptability. This diversity not only pre vents boredom but also stimulates differ ent brain areas.
• Be consistent. Schedule brain-stimu lating physical activities several times a week. This regular engagement helps to encourage new neural connections and improve brain function over time.
• Progress gradually. Start with simpler tasks and gradually increase the complex ity of the activities as cognitive and phys ical abilities improve. This progression keeps the brain challenged and engaged as training advances.
• Track results. Use a journal or digital app to record the types of activities per formed, their duration and any able improvements in thinking, prob lem-solving or creative output. Also reflect on changes in emotional and mental well-being. Such monitoring is essential to appreciate the benefits of a cross-brain fitness routine.
• Check cognitive progress. Consider periodic cognitive assessments to formally measure cognitive improvements. These can be simple online tests designed to evaluate brain functions such as memory, attention, problem-solving and creativity.
Holistic Support
Cross-brain fitness can be supported by other activities during the day. Regular meditation, for example, quiets the mind’s chatter, allowing both sides of the brain to work in harmony, thus enhancing the ability to generate new ideas and solve problems creatively. “Meditation and mindfulness practices are associated with strengthening the brain’s connectivity,” explains Kathleen Benson, a registered dietitian specializing in women’s health, sports nutrition and digestive health. “This can improve atten tion, memory, decision-making and gener al mindfulness. Regular practitioners often
have improved emotional control, lower stress and clearer thinking.”
What we eat significantly impacts our brain function and overall health. A balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and proteins can enhance cognitive function and support both the logical and creative faculties of the brain. Foods like blueberries, nuts, fish and green leafy vegetables boost brain health and foster mental clarity.
Adequate sleep helps consolidate memories and clear brain fog, making room for new ideas and creative thinking. Sleep also balances the emotional states, ensuring that both the analytical and creative sides of the brain can function optimally without
fitness-nutrition specialist, and health and
INFRARED FITNESS STUDIO
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Overcoming Generation Z Loneliness
Prioritizing Human Interactions Over Screen Time
by Thais Harris, BCHN
Generation Z, defined as those born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, has grown up in a digital era characterized by constant connectivity, yet accompanied by profound isolation. The pervasive use of social media, economic uncertainty, hybrid work environments, climate change anxiety and societal pressures contribute to this sense of loneliness.
The Cigna U.S. Loneliness Index found that nearly eight in 10 Gen Zers (79 percent) are lonely. Schools reported that between 2012 and 2018 nearly double the number of high school students worldwide expressed a sense of loneliness compared to the previous decade. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, loneliness is associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety and premature death. Those that experience social isolation have a 32 percent higher risk of early death.
A leading theory for this phenomenon is that 2012 was the first year when more than 50 percent of Americans had access to a smartphone, and the use of social media platforms reached critical mass. While these platforms offer connection, they often lack the depth and authenticity required for meaningful relationships. They give us the illusion of being connected while having our heads down, focused on our devices and ignoring the people and experiences around us. The curated nature of online profiles also can foster feelings of inadequacy and increasing loneliness.
To address this epidemic, it is essential to focus on creating environments that encourage genuine interactions and a sense of belonging. Understanding our needs and triggers, while also nourishing a sense of connection from within, can open the possibility to greater social connection and deeper interactions in the world. Here are some strategies:
Engage in community. Active participation in local activities can significantly reduce feelings of isolation. Volunteering, joining clubs or participating in neighborhood events foster a sense of purpose and
connection. Engaging in community service can enhance social networks and provide emotional support while helping others.
Share interests and hobbies. Finding and participating in groups centered around shared interests can lead to deeper connections. Whether it’s a book club, sports team or foreign language class, these gatherings offer opportunities for meaningful interactions and friendships. Researchers from The University of Queensland, in Australia, found that engaging in activities that align with personal interests helps to form a coherent social identity and reduces feelings of isolation.
Talk to strangers. Contrary to what older generations taught their children, talking to strangers is not necessarily a dangerous en deavor. It might seem easier to interact with our devices than start a conversation with someone new, but the results of the latter provide a greater sense of well-being and a feeling of belonging. Happier people spend more time talking to others, and when peo ple have more conversations with others, they report being happier.
experiences fosters trust and deeper connection. When unsure about what to say, a random act of kindness can profoundly impact the day for the better, creating a ripple effect in the community.
Start from within. “Our epidemic of loneliness corresponds to an epidemic of self-neglect. This isn’t just about being out of touch with others, but with our own body’s needs. Screen time can invade the space for adequate sleep and movement, leading to less resilience and reduced immunity,” says Peter Sholley, a psychotherapist in Massachusetts. “The gut biome is directly implicated, affected by low-nutrition foods, antibiotics, and sleep and exercise
deficiencies. Many studies point to a connection between a compromised gut biome and lack of microbial diversity with an increase in depression and anxiety.”
The Power of Community
A strong, in-person community provides a support system, reduces stress and promotes overall well-being. To combat the loneliness epidemic among Generation Z, we can start by extending a kind greeting to everyone we meet—on a bus, in the classroom or in the checkout line.
Thais Harris is a holistic nutritionist and author. Learn more at NourishTogether.com
The Power of Healing Circles
Resilience and Enjoyment in Nurturing Company
by Maya Whitman
Throughout history, cultures around the globe have used the circle to represent wholeness, vital energy and community. When humans of like hearts gather in a circle, this timeless geometric symbol becomes embodied, lessening the space between individuals. In today’s challenging times, healing circles echo ancient traditions by offering support from the deep well of human bonds. People from all walks of life are coming together to tap into their own healing potential by picking up a hand drum, sharing the cancer treatment journey, dancing to tribal beats or expressing the deeper self with colorful paints.
Circles with inspired focus can help us navigate the rough waters of addiction, grief, illness and transitions by breaking down the protective walls we so often build in the name of survival. “We humans are a social species, and whether you are extroverted or introverted, the experience of belonging amongst others brings an impactful sense of purpose,” says Natalie Lain, executive director at Amethyst Retreat Center, in Duncannon, Pennsylvania. She relates that seeking communal bonds in gatherings like ecstatic dance events isn’t about covering up hardship with false positives, but rather finding grace by “cultivating a foundation of inner strength and ease.”
Drumming Through Tough Times
Inspired by diverse cultural traditions, drum circles are offered at medical centers, hospitals and nursing homes for people with cancer, Parkinson’s disease and other neurological disorders, brain injuries, post-traumatic stress disorder, dementia and viral-based illnesses, including AIDS. In a 2001 study at an outpatient medical facility in Pennsylvania, researchers found that group drumming that followed a music-therapy protocol boosted the body’s natural killer cell activity and lowered the stress response among participants. Japanese research published in 2020 in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience shows that drumming communication programs help older people with dementia experience improved cognitive function and body composition.
Family members and caregivers can find much-needed relief by releasing challenging emotions through rhythmic drumming. “It’s been very rewarding hosting drum circles with those navigating dementia and Alzheimer’s disease,” says Laura Cerrano, a reiki practitioner and healing drum circle facilitator in New York City and Long Island. “We’ve seen improved social interactions, joy, acknowledgment, feeling more present and restoring dignity.”
A Place To Be Ourselves
Some healing circles use the arts for selfexpression and restorative benefits. In such settings, it is not necessary to aim for excellence or have any special talents; simply being present in the moment will suffice. Whether it’s a free-form dance gathering or painting session, the main objective is being in our skin, and this, Cerrano notes, initiates “a greater capacity for heart-to-heart connections and healing.”
Lain concurs, saying, “Creative healing circles are all about learning how to accept ourselves as we are and remembering to nurture our inner child. We open up our hearts in these circles and let ourselves experience the
Jozef Klopacka/Shutterstock
joy of pure expression, shedding layers of self-criticism and competitiveness.”
Expanding our capacity to love is a running thread through cacao ceremonies— gatherings that incorporate the consumption of unadulterated chocolate in its purest form, often prepared as a warm, frothy beverage. In the ancient Americas, cacao was used both ceremonially and medicinally. Modern cacao circles are highly diverse and go beyond religious structure. Often interwoven with music, dance, prayer or meditation, these gatherings inspire reflection and self-exploration.
Online circles can also provide deep emotional sustenance, especially for those unable to attend local events. Cerrano, who has been hosting reiki circles since 2014, saw a need to expand virtually when the world came to a halt in 2020. “The pandemic inspired me to provide weekly virtual reiki circles because people needed a place to gather, feel safe and be heard.”
Whether online or in the neighborhood, healing circles offer something for everyone, and starting up a circle can be just as rewarding. “One of the most important things as a host of mindfulness-focused events is to embody the idea that we are all each other’s teachers,” advises Lain. “It’s important to create an inviting, safe space within your group where people can feel at ease and let their guard down.”
Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.
Unplug and Recharge
Energy Healing Retreats Offer Transformative Learning Experiences
Forget textbooks and lectures. Imagine learning the subtle art of energy healing not just from instructions, but by feeling the flow of energy by the calming rhythm of the ocean waves. This is the power of an energy healing retreat—an immersive experience that takes a learning journey beyond the ordinary.
Traditionally, energy healing techniques are learned through classroom instruction. While valuable, it can be difficult in these settings to feel the subtle energetic shifts that lie at the heart of the practice. This is where immersive retreats excel.
By being enveloped by nature’s calming energy, practicing meditation in a peaceful environment and experiencing guided exercises with fellow learners, participants begin to develop a deeper sense of their own energy field and the surrounding energy.
An energy healing retreat offers a unique blend of learning and self-discovery:
· Enhanced Energy Awareness. Immersed in a supportive environment, we can practice sensing and manipulating energy with heightened focus. Feeling the subtle shifts in our own energy field and that of others becomes more intuitive.
www.hhhexpo.com
· Deepened Understanding. Experiential learning allows connecting the theoretical concepts of energy healing with real-world practice, facilitating a deeper understanding of how energy imbalances can manifest and how to address them.
· Community and Support. Sharing this journey with others allows us to share experiences, ask questions and offer support in a safe and encouraging environment.
For those ready to move beyond theory and truly connect with the world of energy healing, consider an immersive retreat. It could be the transformative experience that unlocks our potential and empowers us to explore the exciting world of energy medicine.
For more information about Pranic Healing class retreats offered by Pranic Healing Bucks County, visit www.JoyOfLearningPranicHealing.com/basic-pranic-healing-shore.
The Power of Positive Intentions
Transforming Your Life
by Shae Marcus
In the fast-paced, often chaotic world we live in, the concept of positive intentions stands as a beacon of hope and transformation. Positive intentions are more than just fleeting thoughts; they are powerful affirmations that can significantly impact our lives, shaping our experiences and outcomes. It’s helpful to explore the transformative power of positive intentions and learning of practical steps to integrate this practice into our daily life.
Positive intentions involve consciously setting your mind towards positivity and aligning your actions with your desired outcomes. Unlike mere wishful thinking, positive intentions require clarity, focus and commitment. Dr. Wayne Dyer, a renowned self-help author and motivational speaker, emphasizes that “Our intentions create our reality,” highlighting the profound influence our mindset has on our life’s direction.
Research supports the idea that positive intentions can lead to tangible improvements in mental and physical well-being. A study published in The Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that individuals who regularly set positive intentions experienced lower levels of stress, enhanced emotional resilience and improved overall life satisfaction. By focusing on positive outcomes, we train our brains to seek out and amplify positive experiences, creating a self-reinforcing cycle of positivity.
Five Ways to Incorporate Positive Intentions into Daily Life
1. Start Our Day with a Clear Intention
Begin each morning by setting a specific positive intention for the day. This could be as simple as intending to remain calm during stressful situations or as ambitious as aiming to complete a significant task. Writing down intentions reinforces commitments and serves as a reminder throughout the day.
2. Practice Mindful Visualization
Spend a few minutes each day visualizing your intentions. Close our eyes and imagine the positive outcomes we desire. Visualization not only clarifies your intentions but also prepares our mind and body to achieve them. According to a study in Psychology Today, visualization can enhance motivation, increase confidence and improve performance.
3. Use Positive Affirmations
Incorporate positive affirmations into daily routines. Affirmations are short, powerful statements that reinforce our intentions. Repeating affirmations such as “I am capable and confident” or “I attract positive energy” can reprogram your subconscious mind, fostering a more optimistic outlook.
4. Engage in Reflective Practices
Take the time to reflect on your intentions and their impact. Journaling is an effective way to track our progress and gain insights into our thoughts and behaviors. Reflective practices help us to stay aligned with our intentions and make necessary adjustments to our approach.
5. Surround Ourselves with Positivity
Our environment plays a crucial role in supporting our positive intentions. Surround ourselves with positive influences, whether through uplifting books, inspirational quotes or supportive relationships. Engaging with positivity reinforces our intentions and helps us stay focused on our goals.
The power of positive intentions lies in their ability to transform our mindset and, consequently, our lives. By consciously setting and nurturing positive intentions, we can cultivate a more optimistic outlook, enhance our well-being and achieve our desired outcomes. Integrating the practice of positive intentions into our daily lives is a journey that requires commitment and consistency, but promises profound rewards.
Embrace the power of positive intentions today and witness the positive changes it brings to our lives.
thanks you
Protecting Waterways
How Individuals Can Make a Real Difference
by Kelcie Ottoes
The biblical adage that all rivers lead to the sea is one way of saying that all water is connected. This natural design moves water from one place to the next, which means that polluting or littering along one creek eventually pollutes all waterways.
According to the Ocean Conservancy, 11 million metric tons of plastic enter the ocean each year, joining an estimated 200 million metric tons already circulating there. While many organizations and individuals engage in waterway cleanups on
Earth Day in April, attention is needed the rest of the year, too.
Clean waterways support healthy ecosystems, beautify outdoor spaces, provide a safe habitat for wildlife and improve outdoor recreational experiences. We can all play an impactful role in keeping waterways clean.
Getting Started
Most litter is found along the water’s edges, beaches, walking paths and parking areas. By committing to consistently keeping a section of waterway clean, we can deter
others from littering in the area. “Studies have found that clean places stay cleaner,” says Lauren Berent Burgess, engagement director of Denver, Colorado’s The Greenway Foundation, a nonprofit steward of the South Platte River. “Something in our mentality will stop us from destroying a place that looks nice. We feel less guilty littering somewhere there is litter already. You can always keep a waterway clean by maintaining it.”
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides information online about actions to take around the house and in the commu-
nity to support waterways. To learn more, visit epa.gov/urbanwaterspartners/how-youcan-help. Also consider joining a local nonprofit that hosts cleanups, including Adopt a Beach, Ocean Conservancy, Keep America Beautiful, Waterkeeper Alliance and American Rivers.
“If you know somewhere is going to flood, clean up the area before it happens and while water levels are still low to prevent the trash from being swept away,” says Callie Schaser, the communications specialist at Living Lands & Waters, a river cleanup organization headquartered in Illinois. “They may seem small, but picking up items like cigarette butts can have a big impact, especially because of all the contaminants that are in the filter. One cigarette filter can pollute up to two gallons of water before the contaminants are gone.”
Safety Tips
• Ensure minors are accompanied by an adult.
• Check the forecast for rain, flood warnings and high tides.
• Respect nature and leave wildlife alone.
• Do not enter high water.
• Exercise extreme caution when picking up anything sharp, hazardous or excessively heavy.
What to Bring to a Cleanup
• Drinking water
• Snacks
• Trash pickers
• Work gloves
• Closed-toed shoes
• Rain jacket
• Long sleeve shirt
• Long pants
• Hat
• Sunscreen
• Bug spray
• Trash and recycling bags
• Hand sanitizer
• Safety vest
The Impact of Organized Action
When individuals get organized, work together and execute cleanups consistently over time, their collective impacts can be transformative. The Ocean Conservancy has collected almost 349 million pounds of trash since
1986. Living Lands & Waters has cleaned up 25 rivers in 21 states and hosted 1,400 community-based cleanups that have removed more than 13 million pounds of trash since 1998. American Rivers has cleaned up 32.5 million pounds of litter and debris with the help of 1.3 million volunteers covering 261,000 miles of waterways since 1991.
Other Ways to Maintain Waterways
• Generate less trash by consuming less.
• Ensure local trails and parks have trash, recycling and compost bins.
• Eliminate single-use plastic, one of the largest contributors to waterway pollution, according to both Burgess and Schaser.
• Encourage others to take ownership of their trash and local waters.
• Persuade businesses and local groups to adopt sections of waterways and commit to keeping them clean.
• Support farmers using regenerative practices that do not contribute to chemical runoff.
Kelcie Ottoes is a copywriter and content creator specializing in sustainability and environmental topics. She is a frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings.
Pet Posse
Building a Network Around Our Animal Companions
by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN
Like the African proverb “It takes a village to raise a child,” it takes a village to raise a pet, too. Pet ownership involves much more than just feeding and walking them. It requires a holistic approach that includes training, socialization, health care and emotional well-being. A supportive community can play a crucial role in raising a pet by offering a diverse set of skills and resources that contribute to their comprehensive care.
Pets Build Community
A 2017 study across urban sites in the U.S. and Australia found that pet owners have significantly higher “social capital” than non-pet owners. Defined as the “connections among individuals, social networks, and the norms of reciprocity and trustworthiness that arise from them,” social capital is crucial for community well-being.
The study describes how pets can facilitate social interactions, acting as catalysts for building social networks and fostering a sense of community. Such interactions extend beyond simply breaking the ice between strangers; they contribute to a wider social trust and the ties that bind communities together.
A recent report by Mars Incorporated, makers of human and pet food, highlights the power of pets to bring people together and alleviate the loneliness epidemic. Nearly nine in 10 adults say pets are one of the easiest conversation-starters, and pet parents say pets made them more familiar with their neighbors (85 percent) and more invested in their community (70 percent).
Benefits of a Pet Community
A supportive pet community enhances the quality of life for pets and their owners.
• Socialization for Pets and Owners: Pets need social interaction to thrive. Regular playdates, dog park visits and community events help pets interact with other animals, improving behavior, reducing anxiety and boosting happiness. For owners, these gatherings can foster lasting friendships and a supportive network.
• Shared Knowledge and Resources: Experienced pet owners share advice on training techniques, veterinarians, pet-sitting services, groomers and petfriendly activities, helping pets receive the best care.
• Emotional Support: Pet ownership can be challenging. A community offers much-needed emotional support, empathy and practical advice during difficult times, such as dealing with a sick pet or behavioral issues.
• Active Lifestyle: Pet communities promote an active lifestyle that includes group walks, hiking clubs and outdoor events that keep pets and owners physically healthier and happier.
• Advocacy and Education: Pet communities organize events for spaying and neutering, raise awareness about pet adoption and host workshops on pet care. These efforts contribute to the well-being of pets and promote responsible pet ownership.
Finding the Right Tribe
Joining a meetup hosted by a dog park or local pet club is an excellent starting point to find a pet community nearby. Websites like Meetup and Facebook help connect pet owners in the area. Online communities, including breed-specific forums and pet care groups, offer platforms to share experiences, seek advice and build friendships worldwide. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok also host vibrant pet communities.
Veterinary clinics and pet stores often act as local pet community hubs, hosting events and providing bulletin boards for announcements. Participating in pet-friendly festivals, charity walks and adoption fairs offers great opportunities to meet other pet owners and learn about local resources. These activities not only help in finding a pet tribe, but also enhance a pet’s social life and well-being.
The right pet community includes professionals such as veterinarians, pet trainers and nutritionists to provide access to highquality, accurate and reliable information and support. These experts stay updated with the latest research and best practices,
allowing pet owners to benefit from the most recent advancements in pet care.
Building a Strong Community
If an existing community doesn’t fit spe cific needs, consider organizing personal events. Starting a weekly dog walk, hosting a pet playdate in the backyard or planning a pet-friendly picnic can create a supportive network of pet owners with shared interests. Volunteering at animal shelters, rescue orga nizations or pet adoption events is another excellent way to connect with other passion ate pet owners while contributing to a wor thy cause.
The power of community in pet ownership is undeniable. Embracing the collective care model ensures a healthier, happier and more connected life for all involved.
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
Sunday Sunday
October 6th October 6th
11AM - 5PM 11AM - 5PM
2349 MARLTON PIKE W, 2349 MARLTON PIKE W, CHERRY HILL, NJ CHERRY HILL, NJ
Email Publisher@NAPhiladelphia.com for guidelines. We advise confirming in advance directly with the business or organization.
Thursday, August 1
Native Planters – 10am-12pm. Embark on a rewarding journey as a Volunteer Native Planter, where you’ll connect with like-minded individuals, refine your gardening expertise, and delve into the world of native plants. Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road, Philadelphia. www.SchuylKillCenter.org/visitor-center
South Philly Drink and Draw – 7-9pm. Hosted by Cassie’s Craft Coven. Live nude model session with different models each month. Newbold Exchange, 1727 Snyder Avenue, Philadelphia. www.TheCraftCoven.org
Saturday, August 3
What Does Your Aura Say About You with Steven East – 10am-4pm. An aura photograph captures the beautiful array of colors and indicates many things about a person’s energy. Participants receive a photograph along with a report detailing the aura’s unique characteristic traits, personality, well-being, finances and even chakra levels. Session includes a psychic reading with Steven. Cost: $45. The Center, Life in Balance, 45 S. Main St., Medford. 609-975-8379 or TheCenterLifeInBalance@gmail.com
Sunday, August 4
Self-Care Sundays – 11am-1pm. Black Lotus Holistic Health Collective presents Self-Care Sundays with meditation and yoga classes. Cost: $15-$30. Black Lotus Holistic Health Collective, 206 Rittenhousetown Lane, Philadelphia. www.DiasporaEducationalServices.org/ black-lotus
Somatic Connection: a Couple’s Retreat w/ Madelana – 6-9pm. This workshop will open the door to your hearts and minds, offering tools that can be a part of your relationship journey and potentiate its success. Cost: $200. Formation Sauna and Wellness, 305 Brown Street, Philadelphia. www.FormationSauna.com/events
Sunday, August 4
Breathwork & Reiki with Laura Finger –Sunday, 10-11:30am. Experience personal awakening, transformation, emotional release and peace by connecting with your higher (authentic) self, and quieting the thinking mind. You will be guided through an active rhythmic and healing breath work and Reiki session providing opportunity to let go in a safe space. Cost: $35. Private sessions available. The Center, Life in Balance, 45 S. Main St., Medford. 609-975-8379 or TheCenterLifeInBalance@gmail.com
Wednesday, August 7
Tai Chi – 9:30-10:30am. Learn the Tai Chi form, as well as the yin and yang principles that underlie this martial art. Cost: $36-$52. Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens, 631 Berwyn Baptist Road, Devon. www.JenkinsArboretum.org
Friday, August 9
Yoga Kids Fun Night with Sara DiSimoni – 6-8:30pm. Calling all kids ages 5-10! Join us for yoga, games, mindfulness activities, a movie, and the chance to make new friends! Tula Yoga and Wellness, 737 N. 4th St., Philadelphia. www.TulaYogaPhilly.com
Awaken the Goddess Within You – 6:308pm. A free, virtual master class for midlife spiritual women seeking to tap into their sexual energy and embrace their wild, authentic selves. Cost: $33. Live in Joy Yoga and Wellness, 118 W. Merchant St., Audubon. www.TejaValentin.com/events/
Saturday, August 10
Yoga Storytime with Sara DiSimoni – 1010:45am. Yoga storytime combines traditional yoga poses with read alouds of new and familiar children’s books. Northern Liberties Farmer Market at the Piazza, 2nd and Germantown Ave. Philadelphia. www.TulaYogaPhilly.com
Transformational Breathwork with Malarie Fares – 2:30-4pm. Heal and transform through the power of Breathwork with Malarie, a trauma-informed holistic healing modality used to safely lead you into non-ordinary states of consciousness. Reach out to Malarie directly at Contact@BreatheBodySoul.com
Yoga Kids Fun Night with Sara DiSimoni – 6-8:30pm. Calling all kids ages 5-10! Join us for yoga, games, mindfulness activities, a movie, and the chance to make new friends! Tula Yoga and Wellness, 737 N. 4th St., Philadelphia. www.TulaYogaPhilly.com
Tuesday August 13
FREE ONLINE Three Secrets to Vitality That Docs Won’t Tell You – 2pm. 10 spots available. Join Dawn Ricci Master of Spiritual Healing to show you proven scientific methods that the body is a self-healing machine. Learn the secrets to healing the body of disease naturally utilizing energy, changing your diet, aligning your chakras. www.BodyToWellness.com
Wednesday, August 14
Poetry Writing Monthly Workshop – 6:308:30pm. Hosted by Cassie’s Craft Coven, join Krystle for a two-hour poetry workshop that will include reviews, styles, prompts and group activities. Philly Typewriter, 1735 East Passyunk Avenue, Philadelphia. www.TheCraftCoven.org/coven-events
Saturday, August 17
Sound Bath – 10-11am. Come relax and connect with nature through a meditative sound bath experience. John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge At Tinicum, 8601 Lindbergh Blvd., Philadelphia. www.facebook.com/johnheinznwr
Monday, August 19
Breathwork & Reiki with Laura Finger – 7-8:30pm. Experience personal awakening, transformation, emotional release and peace by connecting with your higher (authentic) self, and quieting the thinking mind. You will be guided through an active rhythmic and healing breath work and Reiki session providing opportunity to let go in a safe space. Cost: $35. Private sessions available. The Center, Life in Balance, 45 S. Main St., Medford. 609-975-8379 or TheCenterLifeInBalance@gmail.com
Monday, August 19 –
Tuesday, August 20
Philadelphia Regional Trauma and Wellness Conference – Two-day, immersive event dedicated to empowering resilience, promoting well-being, and fostering meaningful connections within the first responder community. Cost: $325. Rowan College at Burlington County, 1100 College Circle, Mount Laurel. www.TraumaAndWellnessConference.org
Tuesday August 20
FREE ONLINE - Three Secrets to Vitality
That Docs Won’t Tell You – 6pm. 10 spots available. Join Dawn Ricci Master of Spiritual Healing to show you proven scientific methods that the body is a self-healing machine. Learn the secrets to healing the body of disease naturally utilizing energy, changing your diet, aligning your chakras. www.BodyToWellness.com
Wednesday, August 21
Clay Play Open Studio Making – 6:308:30pm. Cost: $30, Star Garden Recreation Center, 600-44 Lombard Street, Philadelphia. www.Phila.gov/departments/philadelphia-parks-recreation
Thursday August 22
FREE ONLINE Three Secrets to Vitality That Docs Won’t Tell You – 7pm. 10 spots available. Join Dawn Ricci Master of Spiritual Healing to show you proven scientific methods that the body is a self-healing machine. Learn the secrets to healing the body of disease naturally utilizing energy, changing your diet, aligning your chakras. www.BodyToWellness.com
Thursday, August 29
Concert for “A New World of Peace” –7pm. A unique musical experience presenting the meditative music and poetry of Sri Chinmoy, arranged and performed by the international Sahadeva Ensemble, with multimedia images and spoken word. Cost: free. The Church of the Holy Trinity, Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia. 215-383-3663 or www.NewWorldOfPeace.com
SAVE-THE-DATE
Harmonic Earth Healing Arts Festival
Thursday, September 19Sunday, September 22
Live music, workshops, healing village, elixir bar, wood-fired pizza, and kid-friendly! Cost: $165-$215. Tamaqua. www.StoneHedge.us
SAVE-THE-DATE
Holistic, Health & Healing Expo
Sunday, October 6 11am-5pm
Experience the best! The Holistic Health & Healing Expo is the go-to resource for natural wellness and green living in South Jersey and Philadelphia.
The DoubleTree Hotel, 515 Fellowship Rd., Mt. Laurel Township. www.NJ.HHHExpo.com
Ongoing
Events Wednesday
Building Awareness and Momentum: Summer of Meditation and Mindfulness with Ira Richards – 8-9pm. As we try to be more mindful of what’s really going in each moment, one moment of mindfulness can lead to another. Meditation is an important tool in helping us build up that momentum. Cost: free. Tula Yoga and Wellness, 737 N. 4th St., Philadelphia. www.TulaYogaPhilly.com
Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Publisher@NAPhiladelphia. com to request our media kit.
Energy Medicine and Psychology
KATHY MILANO, PHD
Soul Sanctuary
110 Marter Ave., Ste. 206 Moorestown, NJ 08057
856-778-1981
www.KathyMilano.com
Take a Journey of Self-Discovery revealing your unique Soulful Map to healing, transformation & spiritual expansion. Kathy is a clinical psychologist who offers women holistic psychotherapy with specialties in energy psychology (Heart Assisted Therapy, EFT), energy medicine (The Body Code), healing trauma and spiritual mentoring. Classes and retreats for women integrate wisdom from Andean Energy Medicine, Mystical Feminine Archetypes, and AngelicEnergetics. As a shamanic practitioner, Kathy offers Andean Medicine Sessions, Munay Ki Initiations, ceremony, and workshops. Angelic Healing Journeys and AngelicEnergetics sessions and workshops welcome everyone.
Homeopath
WHITE HAWK HOLISTIC WELLNESS CENTER
Jennifer Armento, Homeopath PHOM, Clinical Herbalist
Tabernacle, NJ
732-778-5023
www.WhiteHawkHolistic.com
Homeopath and herbal consulting for acute and chronic illness. Offering holistic workshops, homeopathic classes, herbal products, quantum bioscan sessions and a raw food co-op.
Intuitive Healing
SUSAN COSTANTINO DRUMMOND
RM, INTUITIVE MEDIUM
NJBalance at The Center, Life in Balance
45 S Main St, Medford 609-923-3154
Susan@NJBalance.com
www.NJBalance.com
Susan is an Intuitive Medium and Reiki Master. She specializes in intuitively enhancing the mind, soul and physical body with healing energy for your highest well-being.
Love, Sex & Relationship Coach
TEJA VALENTIN COACHING, LLC
609-905-LOVE
108 W Merchant St, Audubon, NJ 08106 Teja@TejaValentin.com • TejaValentin.com
Are you ready to live fully tapped in and turned on? If you are a yes, then this is your sign. Find your purpose, feed your passion, and free your pleasure. Learn to embrace and empower yourself to live and love to its fullest potential through transforming old blocks, fears and stories. Return to your true nature where sex is sacred, beautiful and healing; where being empowered is not being something we are not, but rather being whole and integrated. Together we will work deeply in a safe and gentle loving container. I work primarily with women and couples who are ready to commit to themselves.
Wellness Collective
WELLNESS COLLECTIVE
Modrn Sanctuary Philadelphia 1420 Walnut Street, Suite 1212 Philadelphia www.ModrnSanctuaryPA.com
A unique wellness center featuring an integrative menu of traditional and alternative beauty, wellness, and alternative healing therapies and treatments all under one roof.
