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

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As a girl born and raised in the Northeast, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the magic of all four seasons. Each one brings its own special charm, but let’s be honest—summer is where the real fun begins! Everything comes to life: people walking their dogs, neighbors chatting out front, kids playing outside, trips “down the shore”, lounging by the pool, enjoying outdoor concerts and, of course, BBQs. Our bodies crave different nourishment in the summer—something cool and light to keep us refreshed and energized.

Let’s dive into this month’s feature story: “Ayurvedic Seasonal Eating: How to Balance Doshas With the Right Foods.” Each season brings a unique bounty of fresh food to sustain and nourish us. Whether it’s a juicy tomato straight off the vine in the summer or a hearty winter squash stew, these seasonal delights highlight what the earth naturally offers. Seasonal eating is a rhythmic approach that’s more sustainable than relying on grocery-store staples and connects us deeply to the world around us. Combine this with the Ayurvedic concept of balancing our doshas and you’ll find a perfect harmony with nature.

Next up, we have: “Nourish Skin From Within: Foods That Enhance Health and Radiance.” Did you know our skin is the largest human organ? It does more than just protect us from UV rays, bacteria and chemicals. It tells the story of our lives, reflecting emotional stress, hormonal changes and diet. Discover how the right foods can boost your skin’s health and keep it glowing all summer long.

Also a must read: “Celebrating Unseen Milestones.” This piece explores the profound moments of refining a spiritual practice or rebuilding life brick-by-brick after a devastating loss. It’s a testament to human resilience and the power of small victories.

Another heartwarming read is “The Kindness Cure: Helping Ourselves by Helping Others.” As the Dalai Lama once said, “Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them, humanity cannot survive.” This article delves into how acts of kindness can profoundly impact our own well-being.

Don’t miss “Planting Seeds of Knowledge: Teaching Kids About the Origin of Foods.” A 2012 study by Stanford University showed that teaching young children about the diverse nutrients in food and the importance of eating a variety of healthy ingredients significantly improved their understanding of nutrition. It even prompted them to voluntarily eat more veggies at snack time. Now that’s a win!

Finally, check out “Taking Dogs for a Swim: Tips for a Safe and Fun Experience.” Understanding a dog’s abilities and comfort level in water is crucial. Observing their behavior around water provides insights into their readiness to swim, ensuring a safe and enjoyable time for your furry friend.

As always, we aim to bring you content that’s both inspiring and informative. Here’s to a vibrant, cool and nourishing summer!

Cheers to summer fun,

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Publisher Shae Marcus

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Natural Awakenings is celebrating our 30th year anniversary and growing!

Seeding the Light Gathering to Bring Peruvian Shamans

to Mt. Laurel

Kathy Milano, founder of Soul Sanctuary, is hosting the Seeding the Light Gathering. This transformational event is an inspired dream received by Milano in an ancient temple in the Sacred Valley of Peru. Three Andean shamans are coming to share their wisdom, ceremony and Munay Ki Rites (energetic transmissions).

The Weekend Event, July 26 to 28, will be held at the Unity Church at the Mt. Laurel Chapel. Those interested in direct experience with the Andean cosmovision may join one of the 5 Day Immersions, July 25 to 29. The general 5 Day Immersion is open to anyone. The Mesa Carrier 5 Day Immersion welcomes all traditions and includes private teaching and Munay Ki Rites. Limited private shaman healing sessions will also be available at Soul Sanctuary for those attending the Gathering.

“Seeding the Light is a cosmic dream of healing that will plant a new potential for the Earth, your life and all humanity,” shares Milano.

All who wish to open their hearts are welcome to join the Gathering. For more information or to reserve tickets (required), visit www.KathyMilano.com/seeding-the-light-gathering.

NEISH Iridology & Natural Health Consulting Now Offers Holistic Wellness Services

NEISH Iridology & Natural Health Consulting at Living Tree Wellness, in Haddonfield, is now available to support individuals on their journey to optimal health. Utilizing eye analysis as the primary assessment tool, NEISH identifies opportunities for improved health for its clients.

“The eyes reveal so much of what is expressing within the body temple. Iridology provides insight into the root cause of imbalances and aids us in charting an individualized path to well-being for our clients. NEISH stands behind the belief that our bodies are designed to balance and restore themselves. We empower our clients to embrace this idea, take advantage of health opportunities via natural methods and move through their life experience as the healthiest version of themselves,” says owner Karen Lovelace.

NEISH leverages therapeutic massage and energy medicine as key modalities for pain relief and regulation of the nervous system. Nutrition, spiritual and lifestyle guidance form the foundation of all services offered. Additionally, NEISH provides on-site chair massages for businesses.

Location: 8 E. Mt. Vernon Ave. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 833-634-7428, email KL4Neish@outlook.com or visit www.4Neish.com.

Free Concert for A New World of Peace

A unique musical experience takes place in Philadelphia August 29, when the New World of Peace Concert will be staged at the Church of the Holy Trinity on Rittenhouse Square at 7 p.m.

The free event presents the powerful, meditative music and poetry of Indian composer and spiritual teacher Sri Chinmoy, arranged and conducted by British musician Sahadeva Torpy. The international ensemble of musicians and singers will be accompanied by multimedia images and spoken words.

The concert is offered to share hope and a harmonious vision for life on this planet, transcending the boundaries of politics, culture and creed. Where better to reaffirm this vision than in Philadelphia—the city of brotherly love that Chinmoy called the “spiritual capital of America.”

Audiences at the 2023 inaugural tour in the United Kingdom and Ireland found the concert experience transformative. “The people, words and music showed me that peace is not only beautiful, but possible,” said one concertgoer. “A wonderful experience—it is exactly what is needed in our world today,” exclaimed another.

Location: 1904 Walnut St. For more information or for tickets (the concert is free, but tickets are required), call 215-383-3663 or visit www.NewWorldOfPeace.com.

Photo credit www.KathyMilano.com

Unlocking Potential:

Mentorship Program with Dawn Ricci

Spiritual adviser and psychic medium Dawn Ricci now offers a 1:1 Mentorship program that poses this philosophical question: “What are you pretending not to know?” The answer serves as a stimulus for deep self-reflection. It challenges individuals to recognize and confront truths about themselves, their lives or their situations that they may be consciously overlooking or denying.

Ricci’s expertise and guidance can help individuals embrace their true selves and pursue their desires, whether in their business endeavors, career paths, relationships, family matters or in exploring their spiritual gifts.

She provides private one-on-one intuitive mentoring customized to each person’s specific needs, with programs starting with a 90-day commitment.

Interested individuals can register for a free 30-minute 1:1 Inspiration Call with Ricci to evaluate their direction and the techniques that will open their futures to many new possibilities.

Sunday Sunday

October 6th October 6th

11AM - 5PM 11AM - 5PM DOUBLETREE DOUBLETREE BY HILTON BY HILTON

For more information or to register for the free call, visit www.DawnRicci.com/mentor today.

Prime IV Unveils Exciting Summer Specials

Prime IV Hydration & Wellness—a premier intravenous therapy clinic in Marlton known for its cutting-edge treatments—is offering two new summer specials designed to enhance athletic performance and promote overall wellness.

The Champion drip is an all-encompassing treatment aimed at boosting athletic performance. This nutrient-packed drip is formulated to increase endurance and energy, speed up recovery time and prevent lactic acid buildup. It includes a powerful blend of B vitamins, amino acids, magnesium chloride and vitamin C.

“This drip is perfect for athletes or anyone looking to push their physical limits this summer,” says Lynn O’Malley, co-owner of the Marlton franchise.

Making a triumphant return due to popular demand is the Skinny Mermaid, a potent combination of the Skinny drip and Glow drip. “This treatment promotes weight loss and provides anti-aging benefits by boosting metabolism and supporting healthy hair, skin and nails,” notes O’Malley. It contains B vitamins, an amino acid blend, vitamin C, glutathione and biotin. “Our clients love the Skinny Mermaid for its dual benefits of weight management and anti-aging,” she adds.

Location: 890 Rte. 73 N. For more information or to book an appointment, call 856-386-3251 or visit www.PrimeIVHydration.com/locations/new-jersey/marlton-08053.

Personalized care with natural hormone replacement and overall health optimization

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Want to improve:

PWe o er:

• Direct Primary Care

revention is the hallmark of good healthcare. As your proactive partner in health, I am devoted to helping you and your family stay healthy. At The Institute for Medical Wellness, we integrate traditional family care with holistic and complementary medicine to treat the whole person for a healthy heart, mind and body. Our balanced, caring approach empowers you to tap into your body’s natural ability to heal by addressing the root cause of illness – not just medicating symptoms.

• Convenient, Same and Next day appointments

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• Nutrition and Supplement Counseling

• Paleo Diet and Lifestyle Counseling

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• Network of private medical and holistic health professionals Services and Testing:

• Food Sensitivity Testing

• Advanced Wellness Testing

• Omega-3 Testing

• Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) for autoimmune disease and the prevention of recurring cancers

New Bathroom Tech to Monitor Health

Imagine a toilet that not only cleans itself but also performs a urinalysis to detect hydration levels, urinary tract infections and kidney issues. A trip to the restroom may be the first step in monitoring and maintaining health and wellness, as a number of new products with medical monitoring features are finding their way into the latest bathrooms.

Toi Labs makes smart toilets equipped with advanced sensors that non-invasively monitor fluid intake levels, stool and urine contents, and other vital health metrics without any burden to the user. Withings, a French company, offers a toilet device that detects a large variety of biomarkers found in urine and offers actionable advice for improving health.

CareOS has unveiled the first AI-powered smart mirror for mental wellness that the company asserts can identify mood and help manage stress. Look into the mirror for skin care recommendations and how to correct yoga poses. A Canadian company, NuraLogix, offers a mirror that detects blood pressure and vital signs and assesses disease risk. A 2020 study found that smart floor sensors could be used to predict fall risk and signs of illness. Smart bath maker BBalance is hoping to launch a mat next year that can measure weight and body composition, and detect posture and balance to predict the risk of neurodegenerative disease.

Sperm Defy Newton’s Law of Motion

Sir Isaac Newton’s third law of motion states that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. Scientists now understand how human sperm and single-celled algae seemingly defy this law. In research from Kyoto University and published in PRX Life, scientists explain how sperm, with their whip-like tails and algal flagella, propel themselves through viscous fluids that should, in theory, resist their movement. Because the cells generate their own energy, they thrust beyond the equilibrium in Newton’s law using an odd elasticity. The researchers believe their understanding of this unique aspect of nature will help in the development of elastic swimming micro-robots that can be used for drug delivery, sensing and microsurgery.

In Vivo Gene Editing

Several companies are experimenting on human subjects to develop gene editing that is performed inside the body. Such therapies differ from a recently approved treatment for sickle-cell anemia that removes bone marrow from the body before editing the genetic material and reintroducing it into the patient.

Intellia Therapeutics and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals are in clinical trials to use gene editing to knock out a gene that causes fibrous protein clumps, which can accumulate in organs and nerves, increasing the risk of heart failure and other serious complications. Verve Therapeutics is enrolling patients to test a gene-editing protocol designed to reverse the effects of a genetic disease that leads to severely elevated cholesterol and increased risk of early-onset cardiovascular disease. One caveat: These therapies carry the risk of editing unrelated genes.

andriano cz from Getty Images/CanvaPro

Phira Phonruewiangphing from Getty Images Elnur/CanvaPro lucentiuss from Getty

Detecting Cancer Early

Cambridge University’s Early Cancer Institute recently received an $11.7 million anonymous donation to further its research. The Institute is focused on detecting cancers before they produce symptoms and spread, which then requires expensive medical treatments that are not always effective. One team there is using 200,000 blood samples taken 10 to 20 years ago from ovarian cancer screening participants to identify genetic markers in those that later developed the disease.

Another team developed a cytosponge to collect cells and identify a protein associated with precancerous esophageal cancer. The Institute also has a team that is trying to pinpoint the biomarkers associated with prostate cancer. Their goal is to assist in the development of new and more effective ways to treat cancer.

Pregnancy Adds to Women’s Biological Age

A study by the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health and published in Proceedings of National Academy of Sciences quantified the effect of pregnancy on biological aging. The study included more than 1,700 men and women from the Philippines aged 20 to 22 years old. The researchers concluded that the energy expended in reproduction comes at an expense. Across six epigenetic clock measurements, pregnancy was found to accelerate the women’s biological aging compared to those that had no pregnancies, and multiple pregnancies accelerated the women’s biological age on two of the epigenetic clock measures. Pregnancy did not result in aging of the men in the study.

Thicha Satapitanon from Getty Images/ CanvaPro

Mammoth Pollution Vacuum

The world’s largest pollution vacuum started operating in May. Built in Iceland by Swiss company Climeworks, the direct air capture and storage plant named Mammoth is designed to draw in air, filter out up to 36,000 tons of carbon dioxide annually and either store it permanently underground, reuse it or transform it into solid products.

This is the second large-scale carbon vacuum by Climeworks. Its predecessor, which launched in 2021, captures 500 tons of CO2 each year. Both facilities are powered by a geothermal power plant. According to Jan Wurzbacher, co-founder and co-CEO of Climeworks, the company intends to scale up its technology to remove 1 million tons of carbon per year by 2030 and 1 billion tons by 2050.

Wild Orangutan Treats Own Wound

According to a scientific article published in Nature, a male Sumatran orangutan was observed self-treating a facial wound with medicinal plants in Southeast Asia. Three days after the injury, he ripped off leaves from a liana vine, chewed on them and applied the resulting juice onto the wound. As a final step, the orangutan covered the wound with the chewed leaves. The liana is a tropical plant that has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antioxidant properties. This is the first documented case of wound treatment by a wild animal, providing insight into the origins of human wound care.

Acknowledging Animal Consciousness

For most of human history, the possibility that animals experience sensations and feelings has been dismissed. The New York Declaration on Animal Consciousness, which is signed by nearly 300 university educators and scientists worldwide, challenges this view. The signatories assert that there is “strong scientific support for attributions of conscious experience to other mammals and to birds,” and that “the empirical evidence indicates at least a realistic possibility of conscious experience in all vertebrates (including reptiles, amphibians and fishes) and many invertebrates (including, at minimum, cephalopod mollusks, decapod crustaceans and insects).”

The declaration is supported by 10 years of scientific discoveries about the possibility of animal sentience, including crows that can be trained to report what they see, octopuses that avoid pain and value pain relief, cuttlefish that remember details of specific past events, zebrafish that show signs of curiosity, and bees that display apparent play behavior. The signatories conclude, “When there is a realistic possibility of conscious experience in an animal, it is irresponsible to ignore that possibility in decisions affecting that animal. We should consider welfare risks and use the evidence to inform our responses to these risks.”

Coffee Alternatives

A research article in PLOS ONE predicts that by 2050, climate change will dramatically reduce the world’s most suitable and moderately suitable areas to grow coffee by more than 50 percent and 30 to 40 percent, respectively. With the potential reduced supply and high cost for our morning cup of Joe, several companies are exploring alternatives.

French company STEM is working to develop sustainable and future-proof coffee at a genetic level using coffee byproducts such as grounds and coffee cherry pulp.

Other beanless coffee companies are trying to recreate the coffee taste and aroma using substitute ingredients. Northern Wonder, a Dutch company, uses lupin beans, chickpeas and chicory. Seattle-based Atomo infuses date seeds with a proprietary marinade. Minus, of San Francisco, uses fermentation out of pits, roots and seeds that might otherwise be discarded. Singapore-based Prefer uses a soy milk byproduct, bread and spent barley from breweries that are then fermented. Each of these makers of beanless coffee adds caffeine to their brews to provide the pick-me-up consumers crave in their morning cup.

Remnants of Another Planet in Earth’s Mantle

Using advanced computer modeling, scientists from the California Institute of Technology and Shanghai Astronomical Observatory determined that pieces of a protoplanet the size of Mars are buried below the Earth’s crust. The debris is believed to be a result of a collision between the protoplanet and early Earth about 4.5 billion years ago, which also formed our moon. Because the composition of the protoplanet contained so much dense iron, the scientists believe that most of the shards sunk toward the Earth’s core and that concentrations of this alien debris beneath the African and Pacific tectonic plates explain the mystery of unusual seismic activity in those areas.

that’s a safe, natural, non-invasive therapy using pairs of therapeutic grade magnets to balance the body’s pH, allowing the body to heal itself.

Conditions which biomagnetism is used for include: (but is not limited to)

● Hormone balancing

● Lyme Disease/Fibromyalgia/ Chronic Fatigue

● Cancer

● Infertility

● Autoimmune issues

● Perimenopause/menopause

● Supports detoxification and cellular repair.

AUSTIN WALTERS

Biomagnetism is a unique whole-body approach to healing

Chemical-Free Weed Control

In every garden’s life, there comes a time when weeds attempt to take over, turning what was once a serene escape into chaos. But combatting weeds does not require a chemical solution. By adopting these eco-friendly practices, we can maintain soil health and biodiversity, eliminate toxin exposure to people and pets, contribute to healthier air quality and lower the cost of weed management.

• Plant Spacing. Plants need space to grow, but too much of an open area can lead to weed proliferation. The goal is to keep plant spacing narrow enough to create a canopy that limits sunlight to areas where weeds would otherwise flourish. For an optimal garden layout, follow the instructions that often come with purchased plants or seed packets, or use an online space calculator like ViteGreenhouses.com/plantcalculator.asp.

• Solar Power. Covering the soil with clear plastic during warm months creates a greenhouse effect that heats the soil, killing weed seeds and harmful pathogens. It’s a great way to prepare garden beds without lifting a hoe.

• Mulch Magic. A thick layer of organic mulch comprised of wood chips, straw or grass clippings is a formidable barrier against weeds. Mulch offers the added benefits of regulating soil temperature, retaining moisture, providing nutrients, preventing erosion and inviting beneficial earthworms.

• Hand Weeding. There’s something meditative about getting down on hands and knees and connecting with the garden.

Pulling weeds removes invaders directly from the root, preventing regrowth.

• Natural Predators. Birds, insects and even certain types of fungi feast on weed seeds. Installing bird feeders and creating habitats for beneficial insects can tip the balance in the garden’s favor.

• Boiling Water Blitz. For the toughest of weeds sprouting in cracks and crevices, pouring boiling water directly onto them will cook them from the inside out. Just be mindful of surrounding plants.

• Vinegar Solution. Spraying a vinegarbased solution directly onto the leaves of

unwanted plants can dehydrate and kill them, making this a quick and easy spot treatment. Vinegar is non-selective, so precision is key. Martha Stewart’s recipe includes a well-combined mixture of one tablespoon of dish soap, one cup of salt and one gallon of white vinegar.

• Soil Health. Robust soil is the foundation of a thriving garden and a natural deterrent to weeds. Regular supplementation with compost and organic matter improves soil structure and fertility.

• Native Plants. Selecting plants that are native or well-suited to the area’s climate and soil conditions creates a resilient ecosystem. Such plants are more likely to thrive and outcompete weeds, reducing the need for maintenance.

• Barrier Methods. For particularly vulnerable areas, physical barriers such as landscape fabric or cardboard can prevent weeds from taking root. Covered with mulch, they blend seamlessly into the garden.

Ayurvedic Seasonal Eating

How to Balance Doshas With the Right Foods

by Carrie Jackson

Each season brings a unique bounty of fresh food to sustain and nourish us. A ripe tomato off the vine in the summer or a hearty winter squash stew highlights what the Earth naturally offers. Seasonal eating is a rhythmic approach that is more sustainable than relying on grocery-store staples and connects us to the world around us. Combining seasonal eating with the Ayurvedic concept of balancing our doshas helps to maintain harmony with nature. It also helps support local farmers, reduce carbon emissions, maximize the food’s nutritional value and nourish holistically.

The Fresher the Better

Seasonal eating is intuitive, but modern technology and busy lifestyles get in the way. “For thousands of years, people ate seasonally all the time, as there was no other option,” says Erin Casperson, director at Kripalu School of Ayurveda, a global leader in mindfulness education. “They trusted that each harvest gave us exactly what we needed to survive and thrive. It is only recently, with the development of refrigeration and modern transport, that we are able to access food from other areas of the world and store it for long periods of time.”

Zffoto from Getty Images/CanvaPro

Eating local food when it is fresh not only helps to maximize the food’s nutritional value, it strengthens our connection to its origin. “From an Ayurvedic perspective, we look at the prana, or life force, in food,” explains Casperson. “Generally, the shorter it’s been off the plant, the more life, or nourishment, it will supply. When it’s treated with pesticides and sits in storage or refrigeration for days or weeks, it starts to lose that life force. Looking at a freshly picked strawberry, you can see the value it has. If I pick up a plastic box of spinach at the grocery store, there’s no connection. I have no idea how long it’s been traveling or what it’s been exposed to.”

Kadiatou Sibi, a board-certified Ayurvedic and reiki practitioner and founder of Los Angeles-based A Web of Wellness, recommends frequenting farmers markets, co-ops and grocery stores that offer locally grown food to maximize freshness. “Consuming foods during their harvest honors the natural cycle of the Earth. The crops are brighter, tastier and more nutritionally dense. By purchasing food from a [farmers] market, you are supporting marginalized communities, which historically are often women and families working in the fields. Cultivating locally grown foods also helps to maintain the biodiversity of crops and prevents big corporations from taking over the land.”

Cutting out long-distance transportation doesn’t just increase the food’s freshness, it is better for the environment, too. “When we eat locally, we lower the carbon footprint

and greenhouse gas emissions it takes to access the food. It also eliminates the need for pesticides and other harmful agents that make the food last longer,” Sibi explains.

Eating seasonally is a cornerstone of Ayurvedic practices, which Sibi says are rooted in a deep connection with nature.

“The idea of seasons is based around the cycles of the moon and sun,” she asserts. “Food is one important way we can balance ourselves holistically. Seasonal eating teaches us to wait for the right time and not rush nature. We can look forward to watermelon in the summer and Brussels sprouts in the winter. We learn to cultivate deep gratitude and respect for the land and all it provides for us. It fosters deep stewardship for the Earth.”

Balancing Our Doshas

Incorporating the Ayurvedic understanding of doshas into our diet further

supports our connection to nature and intuitive eating. “According to Ayurveda, everything and everyone is comprised of five elements: space, air, fire, water and earth,” says Veena Haasl-Blilie, founder of Minnesota-based Saumya Ayurveda. “These elements combine to form three basic energy properties called the doshas. These foundational energies, known as vata, pitta and kapha, are the building blocks of our universe. While all three doshas are present in every one of us, they manifest to varying degrees. Our distinct physical, mental and spiritual traits are the result of our unique dosha constitution.”

Disruptions in our daily routines, stress and diet changes can cause doshas to get out of balance. By mindfully incorporating dosha-balancing foods and herbs into our day, our bodies and minds can reset. “In Ayurveda, food is medicine. When we eat to balance the doshas, we are eating in

the most supportive and nourishing way possible,” explains Haasl-Blilie. “Instead of a one-size-fits-all diet, we are eating what is balancing to us specifically in that season.”

Understanding an individual’s own dosha type is a key starting point. Haasl-Blilie recommends, “Fiery pitta is best balanced through naturally sweet foods like fruit, most grains, squash, root vegetables, milk and ghee. The best tastes for balancing pitta are sweet, bitter and astringent, while sour, salty and pungent tastes should be minimized. Airy vata has a cold, dry, light nature that can be countered with foods that are warm, moist and grounding, such as hearty soups and healthy fats. Sweet, sour and salty foods help to balance it. For kapha’s cool, dense, oily nature, we should favor food that is light, dry and easy to digest, ideally served warm or hot with invigorating herbs or spices. Sweet, sour and salty tastes should be minimized.”

Cooking with seasonal food that supports dosha balance helps to further nourish holistically. Chef Divya Alter is a cookbook author and the co-founder of Divya’s, which combines culinary education, good-for-you packaged foods and a plant-based restaurant in New York City. Aiming to offer practical ways to bridge the ancient wisdom of food with modern living beyond the boundaries of India, she notes, “Part of my mission is to show people how to apply the universal Ayurveda principles to every part of the world, incorporating the ancient principles of food compatibility and digestion into local cuisines.”

The Joy of Summer Foods

Alter says that in warmer months, choosing balancing foods helps to naturally regulate our bodies and our doshas. “Summer is the season of outdoor activities, travel, vacationing and more. The heat and exertion tend to deplete our systems, but nature’s peak harvest season provides us with abundant produce to help us replenish. Ayurveda is all about balancing with nature, so in the hot summer, when we tend to sweat more and feel dehydrated, we need to incorporate cooling and hydrating foods. We feel extra pleasure eating the juicy seasonal fruits like peaches, apricots, berries and watermelon because they quickly cool and nourish us. Zucchini, fennel, leafy greens, okra, carrots and green beans are all great vegetables to give us minerals, vitamins and fiber, plus keep our bodies cool. Coconut in every form is our best friend in summer because it is very cooling and nourishing. Fresh coconut water is the best natural electrolyte drink, and you can add fresh coconut milk to your curry or smoothie. For plant-based protein, mung beans and red or green lentils are all great choices.”

For a simple complement to any dish, Alter recommends using fresh herbs, most of which can be grown locally. “Cilantro, basil,

parsley, dill, rosemary, thyme, curry leaves and tarragon, and the cooling spices such as coriander, fennel, cumin and cardamom, add flavor without overheating the body. I use very little or no chili, and if my digestion needs a bit more heat, then I’d use warming spices like black pepper, turmeric, cinnamon and ginger in small amounts,” she says.

Sibi points out that using fresh herbs and spices while cooking also helps to preserve cultural traditions. “While they may not have

Tropical Mango Bowl

Quick, easy and yummy as a snack or breakfast.

1 bag of frozen mango ½ cup of frozen pineapple (or more if preferable)

SUGGESTED TOPPINGS:

Banana, strawberries, blueberries, toasted or shredded coconut chia or hemp seeds, chopped mango, pineapple, granola Greek yogurt, honey or whipped cream

Allow the bags of fruit to thaw for 10 minutes.

Eat a handful of mango chunks while waiting. (Don’t move on to step 3 without doing step 2.)

Using a high-powered blender or food processor, blend the full bag of mango and ½ cup of pineapple until smooth.

Pour into a bowl and add the chosen toppings.

Recipe and photo courtesy of The Mango Hut, Philadelphia, PA. For more information, visit @mangohutsorbeton Instagram and Tik Tock or www.MangoHutSorbet.com.

Photo courtesy of The Mango Hut

stux from pixabay/CanvaPro

originated here, locally grown and ethically sourced herbs honor global cooking and customs,” she says. “Incorporating fresh cilantro into a Mexican dish, turmeric into an Indian recipe, or parsley into a Mediterranean meal reminds us of their origins. Besides the medicinal benefits, the flavors are more palatable, and it’s a valuable way to teach these traditions to a younger generation. They learn that what you put in your mouth doesn’t just affect you, but has a larger global impact.”

While this may seem like a lot to consider when making daily food choices, Casperson recommends starting with seasonal eating and balancing our doshas using ingredients that are readily available. “Seasonal eating is more accessible, because you can literally choose what to eat by what is in the market. From there, have some fun with it,” she suggests. “Look up recipes and menus that you can easily digest to support your dosha balance, and add in herbs grown in your own garden. Sit down and eat in a relaxed setting without distractions and really connect with how you’re nourishing yourself.”

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

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Nourish Skin From Within

Foods That Enhance Health and Radiance

by Maya Whitman

Our skin is the largest human organ. In addition to protecting us from ultraviolet radiation, bacterial invaders and chemicals, it also provides a visual record of the human story, as it is vulnerable to emotional stress, hormonal rhythms and poor diet. While more research is needed, there is growing evidence that food can be an ally for resolving stubborn acne, preventing certain types of skin cancer and aging gracefully. According to a clinical review published in the journal Medicina, nutrients like vitamins A, C, D and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, may be beneficial for atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.

“The global market for skincare topicals is estimated at around $180 billion,” says Mark Tager, M.D., an integrative healthcare synergist in San Diego, California, and author

of Feed Your Skin Right: Your Personalized Nutrition Plan for Radiant Beauty. “There are some topicals with ingredients that do penetrate the skin. For the most part, these approaches pale in comparison with the power of an inside approach to skin health and beauty.” He reminds us that what we consume is reflected in our skin.

Gut Health and Glowing Skin

Emerging research published in Gut Microbes in 2022 shows the relationship between intestinal flora and skin health and proposes the value of supplemental prebiotics, probiotics and fermented foods. “Trillions of organisms—mainly bacteria in our gastrointestinal tract—produce vitamin K, neurotransmitters and short-chain fatty acids, each of which plays a role in skin health,” says Tager, highlighting the microbe

Akkermansia muciniphila, which produces acetone. “People with acne have much lower levels of this short-chain fatty acid in their skin microbiome. Raising the acetate levels, along with changing the ratio of good-tobad gut bacteria, can help with acne.” Tager recommends eating fiber, which is the preferred food of the good bacteria like Akkermansia, as well as taking probiotics.

Deanna Minich, a nutrition scientist, functional medicine practitioner and author of The Rainbow Diet: A Holistic Approach to Radiant Health Through Foods and Supplements, concurs, “An imbalance in the microbiome has been linked to acne. Eating a diverse, colorful, plant-rich diet is a wonderful way to promote a healthy balance of gut bugs.” For acne, she lauds the benefits of green tea.

Full-Spectrum Sustenance

Skin-friendly foods are nutrient-dense and include avocados, sunflower and flax seeds, almonds, walnuts, b erries and cold-water fatty fish (herring, sardines and salmon). “Colorful plant pigments or phytochemicals can fortify skin internally,” Minich asserts. “They tend to accumulate in the skin and offer protection from the sun by absorbing UV rays and reducing inflammation. When we eat a colorful diet, we’re eating an array of nutrients and phytochemicals that protect our skin.” She recommends carotenoids like beta-carotene and lycopene, which are abundant in foods like melons, tomatoes and carrots.

Minich also touts protein to help repair damaged skin, especially plant sources like lentils, beans and tofu, as well as animal proteins such as eggs, fish and lean meats, but warns against charring in the cooking process. “This can create inflammatory compounds known as advanced glycation end products (AGE), which can contribute to aging. Instead, prepare foods with low heat and wet cooking methods such as boiling, stewing and steaming.”

A 2019 prospective cohort study of French women published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition connected a decreased risk of melanoma and basal cell skin cancer with

Jutamas Lertboonsathaporn's Images_kerdkanno/CanvaPro

Trigger Foods

Reducing inflammation and taming a sweet tooth is important. “Too much sugar attaches itself to the collagen in our skin, making it brittle, and this leads to more fine lines and wrinkles,” explains Tager, advising, “Diets high in saturated fats and fried foods contribute to inflammation and changes in sebum production.” He underscores the possibility of food sensitivities to tree nuts, dairy, fish, wheat, eggs, shellfish, peanuts or soy that can manifest as skin irritations, itching and swelling.

Collagen Factors

According to Tager, collagen forms a scaffold within the body and is an essential component of connective tissue that supports the skin’s elasticity. Minich notes, “Collagen supplements can be helpful to improve the appearance of skin, but the body also creates its own collagen and needs nutrients like zinc and vitamin C to do so.”

A Personalized Approach

Ultimately, better skin depends upon multiple considerations, including diet, lifestyle, genetics, medical history and emotional health. “The real breakthrough we have seen over the last decade is the rise of personalized nutrition,” Tager observes, encouraging people to work with medical and nutritional professionals to develop a customized plan.

Maya Whitman is a frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings.

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Summer Splash Keeping Cool With Water Fitness

by Megy Karydes

Whenever we’re swimming or participating in other water-based activities, all of our senses are engaged and exhilarated. Aquatic sports can help us stay fit, strong and cool during the hot summer months. Here are a few recommendations to remain safe and reap all of the splashy benefits.

Learn to Swim Early

Cullen Jones, a four-time Olympic medalist and the first African American swimmer to hold a world record, credits his parents for encouraging him to learn to swim even after he nearly drowned at a water park when he was 5 years old. “I recommend getting infants into the water as early as 6 months old. This helps the child get acclimated to the water and pool environment, easing things when it’s time for professional swimming lessons by a trained instructor,” says Jones, the water-safety expert for Leslie’s Inc., a pool- and spa-care retailer.

Jane Brenner, a water aerobics instructor and lifeguard at YMCA of Metro Chicago, similarly believes that it is never too early to expose young children to water and never too late to learn how to swim. “I see people starting their relationship and journey with water in their 50s, 60s and 70s,” she says. “And I think that’s just as beautiful.”

Water-Based Exercises

Jones notes that any exercise can be done in the water for the added benefit of staying cool. Activities such as running, aerobics, Zumba, cycling and resistance training become a bit harder in the pool, upping the workout benefits.

Hydrostatic pressure is another advantage. “When you get into a pool, even if you’re just holding on to the wall, even if you’re not doing anything, you are wearing a gentle compression sleeve around your whole body,” Brenner explains. “The water is pushing down on you in a way that you barely even notice. You can’t register that slight increase in pressure, but it’s more than the air, and that’s going to increase blood flow. It’s going to decrease pain and swelling. It’s going to do all that while decreasing impact on joints.”

“While other activities may target only one region of the body, water sports—and in particular, swimming—offer a full-body workout,” Jones asserts. “When it comes to swimming, you are using your legs to kick, your arms to paddle and your core to hold it all together. Swimming delivers a whole-body workout and mind-enhancing experience.”

While people can and do enjoy being in the water without knowing how to swim, Brenner notes that anyone that feels they can’t learn is selling themselves short. “I really believe that there is space for a relationship with swimming and water in every person’s life,” she says.

Jones admits it took working with five swim coaches before it clicked for him. Had it not been for his parents’ persistence, he never would have become an Olympic swimmer and gone on to win medals.

Water Safety Is Paramount

According to a 2023 survey commissioned by Leslie's and conducted by The Harris Poll,

only 63 percent of U.S. adults say they are very comfortable being around water, and as much as 36 percent of those surveyed say they do not know how to swim. Nearly half the parents of children under 18 say their child does not know how to swim, and 61 percent say their child has not taken swimming lessons. At the same time, almost 30 percent of parents say they are concerned about their child drowning.

“Swimming lessons save lives,” Jones says. “It’s also an important life skill that can open up a whole new world of recreational and athletic possibilities, such as boating, fishing and competitive swimming, among others.” Still, Brenner and Jones say non-swimmers may enjoy the benefits of being in the water, whether to stay cool in the summer or to stay healthy and fit, both in mind and body.

Brenner teaches water aerobics to people from all walks of life and all ages. She notes that there is a real sense of community that happens in those 50-minute classes. “People are bringing cookies, and others are telling us about the garage sale that’s happening down the street,” she quips. In addition to the physical benefits of water fitness, coming together at the community pool or in a natural body of water offers mental-health rewards and fellowship.

Megy Karydes is a Chicago-based writer and author of 50 Ways to More Calm, Less Stress: Scientifically Proven Ways to Relieve Anxiety and Boost Your Mental Health Using Your Five Senses.

—James Dent

Understanding Somatic Exercise

A Path to Enhanced Well-being

by Shae Marcus

Somatic exercise is a practice that focuses on the internal perception and experience of the body. The term “somatic” originates from the Greek word soma, meaning “body.” Unlike traditional exercise routines that often emphasize external goals such as weight loss or muscle gain, somatic exercise prioritizes awareness, control and the mind-body connection. This approach involves gentle, mindful movements that help individuals tune into their bodily sensations and enhance their overall physical and mental well-being.

Somatic exercise offers a multitude of benefits, both physical and psychological. These exercises can significantly improve:

Body Awareness: By focusing on internal sensations, individuals can develop a heightened sense of body awareness, which can help in identifying and correcting postural imbalances.

Flexibility and Mobility: Gentle, mindful movements can increase joint flexibility and overall mobility, reducing the risk of injury.

Stress Reduction: The mindful nature of somatic exercises helps in reducing stress and promoting relaxation, making it an excellent practice for mental health.

Pain Relief: By learning to move more efficiently and with greater awareness, individuals can alleviate chronic pain and tension, particularly in the back, neck and shoulders.

Improved Coordination and Balance: Enhanced body awareness can lead to better coordination and balance, which is beneficial for daily activities and overall physical performance.

Emotional Release: Somatic exercises facilitate the release of emotional buildup stored in the body. Emotions often manifest physically, resulting in tension, pain or discomfort. Through mindful movement, individuals can process and release these emotions, promoting emotional healing and resilience.

Five Somatic Exercises and Their Benefits

1. THE CAT-COW STRETCH

A gentle spinal movement exercise that involves alternating between arching (Cow) and rounding (Cat) the back while on all fours. It can improve spinal flexibility, release tension in the back and neck, and enhance coordination of spinal movements. It also helps in releasing stored emotions by promoting the free flow of energy through the spine.

2. PELVIC TILTS

Lying on your back with knees bent, gently tilt the pelvis upward and then back down, engaging the lower abdominal muscles. This can strengthen the core, improve pelvic mobility and alleviate lower back pain. This exercise can also release emotional tension held in the pelvic region, which is often linked to stress and anxiety.

3. ARM CIRCLES

Standing with feet hip-width apart, extend our arms to the sides and make small,

controlled circles. Enhances shoulder mobility, increased upper body awareness and relief of tension in the shoulders and neck can be positive results. Arm circles can help release emotional stress stored in the shoulders, often associated with carrying burdens or responsibilities.

4. LEG LIFTS

Lying on our back with one leg extended and the other bent, slowly lift the extended leg towards the ceiling and then lower it back down. Benefits of doing this can be strengthening of the hip flexors and core muscles, improved leg mobility and reductions in lower back pain. Leg lifts can also help release emotional tension stored in the hips, a common area for holding onto fear or trauma.

5. BREATH AWARENESS

Sit or lie in a comfortable position and focus on breathing, noticing the rise and fall of chest and abdomen. This exercise can reduce stress, promote relaxation and enhance the mind-body connection by bringing attention to the present moment. Conscious breathing helps to release pent-up emotions by calming the nervous system and providing a sense of grounding and peace.

Somatic exercise is a valuable practice for those seeking to enhance their physical and mental well-being through mindful movement and body awareness. By incorporating these exercises into daily routines, individuals can experience improved flexibility, reduced pain, increased relaxation and better overall body awareness. Moreover, the emotional release facilitated by somatic exercises leads to a more harmonious relationship with one’s body and a greater sense of well-being.

Shae Marcus is the publisher of both Natural Awakenings South Jersey and Philadelphia.

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Planting Seeds of Knowledge

Teaching Kids About the Origin of Foods

by Thais Harris, BCHN

There is a growing disconnect between children and the origins of their food. It stems from the urbanization of communities and the prevalence of processed foods. As a result, many children don't know how their food is grown, processed and brought to them, contributing to a lack of understanding about the nutritional value and environmental impact of their choices.

Why Knowing Food Origins Matters

A 2012 study by Stanford University showed that teaching young children that food is a source of diverse nutrients and explaining the importance of eating a variety of healthy ingredients significantly improved their understanding of nutrition, and even prompted them to voluntarily eat more vegetables at snack time.

“Gardens are a crucial part of how we change eating patterns and teach about health,” shares Sara McCamant, program director at Ceres Community Project (CCP), a nonprofit that provides meals to people facing health crises. “We put youth at the center of our program with the goal of having them understand where food comes from, as well as learning how to cook it, so it can create health. It is crucial that they understand the bigger picture of how food is grown and how the food system impacts access to healthy food. Many youth are also very concerned about the environment and climate change, and learning about growing food in a sustainable way gives them a way to make an impact on the environment.”

CCP reports that teens participating in their programs are more motivated to consume

vegetables and fruits than other kids their age: 54 percent are eating six or more servings of produce a day. By contrast, only 22 percent of California teenagers that have not experienced CCP activities eat five or more servings a day.

Pilot studies by Harvest for Healthy Kids and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture both found that hands-on experiences with different fruits and vegetables in the classroom, garden and kitchen caused children to be more likely to taste and enjoy a wider variety of foods.

Cultural Heritage

“Children’s limited recognition of food mirrors a deeper loss of cultural identity and heritage,” laments Sebastian White, founder, president and executive director of The Evolved Network. The limited understanding of food through commercial packaging not only deprives children of the rich stories and meanings embedded in their cultural diets, but also reflects broader implications for how they perceive and interact with the world.

“The Evolved Network addresses these issues by integrating the tangible aspects of food preparation, such as cooking skills and community building, with intangible values like cooking with love and the significance of meals as communal gifts,” White explains. “This holistic approach fosters a sense of purpose and inclusivity, treating food education as both therapeutic and educational, with the goal of restoring a deep connection to food that transcends mere nutrition and taps into cultural identity and self-expression.”

Empowering children with knowledge about their food sources is a vital step toward fostering a healthier and more sustainable future. By engaging in hands-on experiences and understanding the journey of food from seed to plate, children can develop a deeper appreciation for nature, make informed dietary choices and support the environment.

What We Can Do

• Visit local farms or farmers markets. Encourage children to ask farmers about how food is grown and the significance of seasonal produce. This direct connection can spark curiosity and appreciation for the hard work behind each item on their plate.

• Start a family garden. Create a small bed or planter box so children can grow some of their own vegetables, herbs and fruits. This active participation not only teaches them about the growth process, but also instills a sense of responsibility and pride in nurturing and harvesting their own food.

• Cook together using fresh, whole ingredients. Teach children how to read labels and choose organic and minimally processed options. Preparing meals together provides an opportunity for practical learning about nutrition and the importance of making healthy choices. Plus, it’s a fun way to bond and instill lifelong skills.

• Eat as a family. Sit-down meals with kids can leave a lasting and positive impression, fostering a lifelong appreciation of dietary quality and communal dining. A 2007 five-year study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that more frequent family meals during adolescence predicted a higher consumption of fruits, vegetables and key nutrients, and a lower consumption of soft drinks. The young people also placed a higher priority on meal structure and social eating.

Thais Harris is a holistic nutritionist and author. Her children’s book, Little Red, told from the point of view of an apple, teaches children about the benefits of consuming fresh fruit. Find recipes and resources at www.NourishTogether.com.

Life’s a garden … dig it. —Unknown

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The Kindness Cure

Helping Ourselves by Helping Others

by Maya Whitman

“Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them, humanity cannot survive,” says the Dalai Lama, who celebrates his 89th birthday this month. Kindness is critical to our existence, and altruism—the authentic inclination to help or inspire others—offers health benefits for both the giver and receiver. According to Waguih William IsHak, a professor of psychiatry at Cedars Sinai Medical Center, in Los Angeles, repeated acts of consideration for others boost oxytocin (the love hormone), dopamine (the feel-good chemical) and substance P (a key neurotransmitter in pain reduction).

Benevolence not only make us feel good, but also provides health rewards. Research published in Psychoneuroendocrinology in 2017 shows a correlation between generosity and favorable changes in immune-cell gene expression, most notably helpful in the presence of cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Being kind to others can even improve our own mental health. A 2021 study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that participants with low-to-moderate levels of mental well-being experienced mental health improvements after performing acts of kindness for others. A 2022 study in The Journal of Positive Psychology concluded that acts of kindness were more effective in reducing anxiety and depressive disorders than cognitive behavioral therapy.

Everyday Philanthropy

Applying genuine thoughtfulness in our daily lives ripples outward. “Unlike random acts of kindness, intentional kindness is not always easy or convenient, but it’s always impactful,” says Tracey Gates, a kindness ambassador, author and wellness coach in Pennington, New Jersey. “It’s inviting the new student to sit at your table or being late for your appointment because a friend was in need.”

Yogendra Singh from corelens/CanvaPro

To make meaningful connections, Gates recommends employing conscious compassion, which has been pivotal in her own journey through a stressful work environment, caring for her mother and negative news when her health buckled under an autoimmune disease. “I needed to do something to tip the scales back toward positivity in my life, so I decided to conduct an experiment,” explains Gates. “If daily stress could impact me physically and emotionally, what would happen if I put a daily dose of kindness on my to-do list?”

Inspired by her late father, who always requested “a few kind words” instead of tangible gifts, she challenged herself to craft an unexpected, handwritten letter of appreciation to a different person every day for one year. The results were transformational in her own life and health and led to her book, The Power of a Few Kind Words: Create a More Meaningful Life, One Letter at a Time. “What I learned is that we are much more alike than we are different. We all just want to know we matter.”

Reaching out to others “can be as simple as sharing your time with no agenda, being curious, asking questions or offering to walk someone’s dog,” attests Jennifer Schmeisser, a health and wellness coach in Dublin, Ohio. “Kindness is much more than being polite. The world throws so much at you, and approaching it from an intentional place of kindness versus overwhelm is a game-changer.”

As a dedicated mother of an autistic son, Schmeisser has experienced unkind responses from strangers through the years, something she has taken as an opportunity

to teach others sensitivity simply by being a positive example and not lashing out. “The intrinsic value of kindness is a larger picture of humanity outside oneself, regardless of gender, age, religion or ethnicity.”

For Gates, a more compassionate society begins at home. “If you want kindness, empathy and compassion to be core values in your child’s life, then it needs to be a core value in your life,” she says. “As a family, share each night around the dinner table how you were kind today and how and if someone was kind to you.”

Compassion for Ourselves

Talk of “self-care” is common these days, but to achieve well-being, we must put it into practice. “For me, self-kindness is letting go, not taking all the responsibilities on my shoulders and letting myself be human. Kindness is forgiving my flaws and allowing space for the hard emotions, too,” says Schmeisser.

For Gates, being kind to ourselves makes it easier to be kind to everyone else. It also involves unplugging from screens and reconnecting to others in real time. “Get out of your chair and put your phone down,” she affirms. “Ask a colleague how their vacation was or how life with a new puppy is going. Kindness and benevolence are readily available medicines to ease the burden of our technological age.”

Maya Whitman is a regular contributor to Natural Awakenings.

B er Health Begins Here…

Legislation Needed to Stop FDA from Undermining Homeopathy

by Marilyn Eppolite

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has launched an effort that is undermining homeopathy and leaving consumers and practitioners without the medicines they have relied on for decades to treat both minor and serious conditions. This shift in policy seems to be part of a broader move against natural health products by the agency in recent years.

For some users, homeopathic medicines have been the only treatment which allowed them to recover from serious chronic illnesses for which conventional medicine has no cure. “I’m one of millions who finally found relief from a serious and painful chronic condition using homeopathic medicines,” says Paola Brown, president of Americans for Homeopathy Choice Action, a consumer group with 120,000 members backing legislation to protect access to the full range of these nontoxic medicines.

The legislation would reverse a 2022 decision by the FDA which reclassified homeopathic medicines as “unapproved new drugs” that are “marketed illegally.” The FDA’s decision came after the agency oversaw the legal marketing of these medicines for the past 80 years from the founding of the agency. The legislation would re-establish a path for legal sale of homeopathic medicines in the U.S.

“I know a lot of moms use homeopathy on family members to treat sore throats, colds, bug bites, sore muscles and other minor conditions and that’s important,” Brown says. “But the loss of these medicines which can successfully treat chronic pain without addiction and infections without antibiotic resistance would be a huge setback for homeopathy users and for public health.”

Under the new FDA policy, the agency has already removed the entire category of injectable homeopathic medicines that were administered exclusively by physicians for control of chronic pain. The agency admitted in court that it found no safety problems. And, it did not

dispute the effectiveness of the medicines. The agency cited only that these medicines are “unapproved new drugs” which can be removed from the market for any reason or no reason at all.

In addition, all homeopathic eye drops, most notably the Similasan brand, have been removed from the market. The agency failed to cite a single instance of harm to any user in decades of use, offering the same “unapproved new drug” excuse for its action as it did with the injectables.

“The way the FDA’s policy is written, any and all homeopathic medicines can be withdrawn from the market for any reason or none at all,” Brown says.

Homeopathic medicines work by using extremely dilute nontoxic doses of substances which in higher concentration are known to cause symptoms similar to ones found in those suffering from a wide range of ailments. These ultra-dilute medicines stimulate a response in the body to heal itself naturally without resorting to toxic drugs. Only rarely do people experience side effects and these are almost always mild.

“People can visit our website to show their support at www.HomeopathyChoice.org,” Brown says. “There you’ll find pre-written messages to send to your members of Congress and options for greater involvement and support.”

Without legislation the number of homeopathic medicines available is likely to drop precipitously as the FDA continues to withdraw new categories. “If we wait too long to act, there may be very little left of homeopathy within a decade,” Brown says. “The time to act is now.”

Marilyn Eppolite is an avid homeopathy user who directs the efforts of Americans for Homeopathy Choice Action in New Jersey.

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The Power of Retreats

Rejuvenation. Exploration. Elevation

by Kathy Milano, Ph.D.

Living in the modern world demands a lot of attention, energy, time and resources. Many of us have followed this well-travelled road—a societally influenced path of success whereby we complete our education, identify our work, earn a living, perhaps raise a family, explore interests, engage the spirit and enjoy social relationships.

This may not sound problematic, yet when so much time is spent meeting demands and schedules, the potential for living out of habit rather than conscious intent arises. For years, I’ve listened to people wonder how they arrived at the stressful, and often unfulfilling, state of their lives and can reflect upon how they may recover, or better yet discover, how to create a more fulfilling life.

Cultivating a life of meaning, pleasure and connection requires a steady commitment of heart and mind and the creative space to explore what needs to be released in order for something new to grow. This can be hard to do amidst the hectic pace of modern living; the process of transforming a life calls for the time, space and perfect container for self-examination.

This is the power of entering a retreat. Beyond taking a temporary break or vacation, the activity offers the potential for rejuvenation, exploration and elevation. Choosing a retreat aligned with one’s needs and intents invites a transformative path to discover insights, practices and road maps. Here’s a few benefits of retreating.

Turn Down the Noise

When we retreat from our daily life, we have the opportunity to step into a quieter space and slower pace which providing space to breathe, listen and nourish ourselves.

Gain Perspective

Retreats that share ways to live with intent, allow for personal contemplation and encourage group sharing of insights encourage inspiration and discovery of the wisdom residing within. This may prompt positive changes in our outer world.

Explore New Territory

Investigate a new skill, tour a different landscape or discover inner wisdom. Connecting with ourselves, nature and the community invites the courage to nurture new dreams.

Amplify Your Connection

Deep within, there is a longing for connection with all things beautiful, inspiring and enjoyable. Connecting with community, nature, art, the cosmos and our soul enhances our capacity for nourishing relationships upon return home.

Retreats vary widely by focus, time, cost, location and participants. Clarifying what is most important helps identify the perfectly matched retreat for our transformational dreaming process. Choose an experience that aligns with intent, piques curiosity and lights us up.

The power of one retreat may be felt for a long time, subtly shifting the path of our life, or it may wash away like a drawing in the sand after reentering daily life. For those looking for true transformation rather than a lovely vacation, consider retreating as a regular part of life for years to come. Such an investment reaps a greater potential to cultivate a life of fulfillment, happiness and meaningful connection.

Kathy Milano is a psychologist, angelic intuitive, shamanic practitioner, and the founder of Soul Sanctuary, in Moorestown, NJ. She enjoys facilitating and attending retreats. For more information, visit www.KathyMilano.com.

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Celebrating Unseen Milestones

by Marlaina Donato

By the time we see our backyard gardens explode with abundance or notice a hillside’s vibrant palette of summer, stealthy forces beneath the surface have been at work for many months. Like nature subtly turning the page to another season or the decaying, secret magic of mycelium networks underground, human milestones are not always obvious. The job promotion, dream vacation or new car promptly gets posted to social media, but emotional and spiritual progress deep within our recesses is not usually announced or even capable of being articulated. In a world that values shiny, tangible successes, the stuff that matters to us most gets lost like rare wildflowers in the underbrush.

We struggle for decades to get out of the stranglehold of trauma, labor silently to refine a spiritual practice or create a new life brickby-brick after devastating loss. Some of us work late into the night honing a craft or work through addiction recovery programs without a visible support system cheering us forward. Sometimes getting out of bed after a long, debilitating period of depression feels like winning the lottery to which very few are privy.

Whether we put an old grievance to rest in a soft grave of forgiveness or master a yoga pose, our most valuable accomplishments are the quiet kind that rarely inspire commemoration. Too many of us refrain from sharing our hidden harvests because we do not wish to appear foolish, or worse, fear being judged, envied or even dismissed by others. Too many of us feel that our internal achievements are insignificant or unworthy of attention. Too many of us minimize the value of what is utterly invaluable.

For today, take a personal milestone from the shadows by honoring it or sharing it. Inspire someone else to do the same. After all, this deeper work—and the cultivation of our intangible joy—is what makes the human journey exquisitely and arduously worthwhile.

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

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Taking Dogs for a Swim

Tips for a Safe and Fun Experience

by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN

Dogs generally love to splash around and play in water, whether in a pool, a calm lake or the open ocean. This might give the impression that all dogs are natural swimmers, but that isn’t necessarily true. As responsible pet owners, it is important to realize that a dog’s swimming skills can vary based on their breed, age and health. Even for dogs that are good swimmers, it is crucial to keep a close eye on their health and safety whenever they are in the water.

Pre-Swimming Preparation

Understanding a dog’s abilities and comfort level in water is crucial. Observing their behavior around water provides insights into their readiness to swim. Signs of comfort such as approaching puddles excitedly or displaying relaxed postures and tail wagging suggest a natural affinity for water. Conversely, hesitance or fear may be indicated by behaviors like barking at waves or avoiding even shallow water.

To create a safe environment, select pools with gentle slopes or steps for easy access and exit. Consider factors like water depth, currents and potential entrapment hazards. Additionally, providing swim accessories such as sunscreen, life jackets, ear protection and paw balm can enhance safety and comfort. Adding water-safe toys can enhance the enjoyment of the swimming experience.

Before allowing a dog to swim, it is essential to check the water quality and temperature. A 2014 study conducted at Chiang Mai University, in Thailand, reported that cold water

below 77° F can elevate a dog’s heart rate and blood sugar levels after just 20 minutes of swimming, potentially straining their bodies, while very warm water above 98.6° F may cause rapid breathing. Water with a temperature around 91.4° F helps dogs stay comfortable and regulate their body temperature during exercise, minimizing the risk of hypothermia from prolonged exposure to cold water.

Ensure the water is clean and free from pollutants and harmful chemicals by regularly testing its quality, especially in pools, to maintain proper pH levels and chlorine content. Chlorine is commonly used to keep pool water clean and free of harmful bacteria, but it can be irritating to a dog’s skin and eyes in high concentrations. A 2012 study published in the Thai Journal of Veterinary Medicine examining the effects of frequent swimming in chlorinated pools found that dry hair (21 percent) and dry skin (19 percent) were the most common side effects observed after the first swim. These percentages significantly increased with more frequent swims, reaching 78 percent for dry hair and 59 percent for dry skin by the fifth swimming session.

Optimizing Swim Lessons

Keeping an eye on the dog while they swim is essential for their safety. Unexpected situations like strong currents or sudden deep spots can happen, and the dog may not know how to handle them. Dogs, like humans, can also become tired while swimming, making it crucial to monitor their energy levels. It can be easy for them to get lost or confused, especially in unfamiliar

surroundings, which is where the owner’s guidance comes in handy.

While the dog is in the water, minimize distractions by avoiding phone use and selecting quiet areas away from crowds or loud noises. Keeping within arm’s reach of the dog allows for immediate response to any difficulties they may encounter. Providing regular breaks and offering encouragement during swimming sessions helps maintain the dog’s comfort and confidence in the water.

“Common mistakes made by dog parents are rushing the process and trying to force a dog that is unsure or frightened,” says Beth Hrnciar, a dog trainer at Follow My Lead, in Connecticut. A dog with little to no swimming experience should never be thrown into the water or allowed to accidentally fall in, she adds, and if a dog displays fear, the swimming session should be terminated.

“Just because a dog is young and healthy doesn’t necessarily mean they can start swimming right away,” explains Hrnciar. Canine fitness instructors can design physical conditioning programs to help dogs avoid unnecessary strain on joints or the cardiovascular system.

Using a proper-fitting life jacket or vest made specifically for dogs will provide support and visibility. “Stick to the shallows until the dog is comfortable, using a floating longline for safety in large bodies of water,” Hrnciar suggests. “Consider having a dog swim with another dog that already knows how to swim and enjoys it, as they learn a lot from modeling other dogs.”

Post-Swim Care

After a refreshing swim, it is essential to prioritize the dog’s post-swim care. Begin by thoroughly rinsing them with clean, fresh

water to remove any chlorine, salt or contaminants that may irritate their skin.

Encourage them to drink fresh water to prevent stomach upset. Dry the dog with a towel, paying extra attention to areas where moisture can linger, including between paws and under the ears. Monitor the dog for signs of discomfort or illness such as ear infections or skin irritation, and seek veterinary care, if necessary.

Swimming can be a fun and enjoyable activity for dogs. With a few precautions and an eye on their safety and health, our furry friends can stay cool and comfortable during hot summer days by the water.

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.

Calendar of Events

Email Publisher@NASouthJersey.com for guidelines. We advise confirming in advance directly with the business or organization.

Monday, July 1

Meanings & Movement Mondays –6:30pm. Slow flow yoga infused with tarot card readings. Mystic Ginger Apothecary, 36 S. Black Horse Pike. Blackwood. www.MysticGingerApothecary.com

Monday, July 1–3

Sustainable Agriculture and Landscapes – 8:30am-4pm. For any educator interested in developing sustainable agriculture, organic gardens or green infrastructure activities and experiences in their classes and schools. Cost: $50. Rancocas Creek Farm, Pinelands Preservation Alliance, 17 Pemberton Rd., Southampton NJ 08088 Rancocas Creek Farm, located at the Pinelands Preservation Alliance, 17 Pemberton Rd., Southampton. www. PinelandsAlliance.org/learn-aboutthe-pinelands/educator-and-student-resources/sustainable-agriculture

Thursday, July 4

Beach Yoga – 9-10am. Whether a seasoned yogi or a beginner, come flow with SHINE Power Yoga and soak up the sun while feeling your inner peace by the ocean. Cost: $10 cash, $12 card. 14th Street South, Brigantine. www.Facebook.com/shinepoweryoga

Saturday, July 6

Blueberry Summer Fest – 10am-3pm. Tour the historic home where blueberries were first cultivated, enjoy live music, handmade vendors, blueberry picking, pies, ice cream, jams, games, and new themes each week! Whites Bogs Preservation Trust, 120 W. Whites Bogs Rd., Browns Mills. www.WhitesBog.org

Monday, July 8

Community Acupuncture with Rebecca Fanali – 1-4pm. Experience the healing power of acupuncture in a group setting with like-minded people. Receive a mini acupuncture treatment for your specific health concern as you are seated comfortably in a circle of zero gravity chairs. Cost: $45. The Center, Life in Balance, 45 S. Main St., Medford. 609-975-8379 or TheCenterLifeInBalance@gmail.com.

Wednesday, July 10

Free Bubble Festival – 5-9pm. Grandpop Bubbles will bring his bubble wands, poles, basins, buckets, and many gallons of SPECIAL BUBBLE JUICE for as many as possible to enjoy bubbling with #GPOPB. Howard Yocum Elementary School, 748 N. Forklanding Rd., Maple Shade. www.Facebook.com/GrandpopBubbles

Thursday, July 11

Shanti Shantea Mindfulness and Yoga with Kellie – Enjoy a cup of herbal tea, mindfulness practices, embodied gentle movement and yoga philosophy. Mystic Ginger Apothecary, 36 S. Black Horse Pike. Blackwood. www.MysticGingerApothecary.com.

Friday, July 12

Arcturian Champion Mindset Activation with Gene Ang – Awaken the Champion Mindset with energetic transmissions that elevate all subtle body levels, empowering fulfillment of passions and life path acceleration. Gene, creator of the Arcturian Healing Method, will be offering a variety of private healing sessions at Soul Sanctuary. 110 Marter Ave., Suite 206, Moorestown. www.KathyMilano.com.

Summer Night Market – 6-9pm. A beautiful group of vendors with handmade jewelery, candles, clothing, home decor, metaphysical supplies, herbal goods, art, yummy food, live music and spiritual readers will be on hand. Harwan Park (next door to), Mystic Ginger, 36 S. Black Horse Pike, Blackwood. www.Facebook.com/mysticgingerapothecary

Saturday, July 13 – Sunday, July 14

Celestial Galactics Activation Training with Gene Ang – Experience the energy and consciousness of the Celestial Galactics. Receive 4 Divine Patterns to up-level your energy field and empower direct connection with higher consciousness. Once installed, you may access the Celestial Galactics and share the Divine Patterns within healing sessions. Soul Sanctuary, 110 Marter Ave., Suite 206, Moorestown. www.KathyMilano.com

Tuesday, July 16

Veterans Circle of Light, Year of the Dragon with Donna Fleming & April Willard – 6:30-8pm. This class will look to the qualities of the dragon to embrace your guiding light for personal growth and fellowship with other veterans. Learn techniques to deal with stress & PTSD, experience guided meditation and discover holistic tools to release stress and raise your vibration as you bond with other veterans in a safe and loving environment. Cost: free. The Center, Life in Balance, 45 S. Main St., Medford. 609-975-8379 or TheCenterLifeInBalance@gmail.com

Free Online - Learn 5 EZ Ways to Reclaim Power and Achieve Balance – 7pm. Unlock power, find balance! Dive into a transformative session with Dawn Ricci, Certified Spiritual Mentor. Release loneliness, guilt and more. Email  Hello@DawnRicci. com  to gain access to Zoom event and start living your best life.

Thursday, July 18

Summer Concert – 6:30pm. Live Entertainment, Food & Drink Specials, Family FUN! Ramblewood Country Club and Seven Tap-Tavern, 200 Country Club Pkwy., Mt. Laurel. www.Facebook.com/ramblewoodcc.

Monday, July 22

Free Online - Develop Your Personal Soul Statement – 7pm. A visualization method that empowers clients in guiding them through introspection and goal-setting. The method helps to navigate their life paths with clarity and purpose in relationships, careers, family, and more. Email  Hello@DawnRicci.com  to gain access to the meeting.

Tuesday, July 23

Sea Glass Tree Workshop – 6-8pm. Discover the art of crafting beautiful Sea Glass trees, perfect for adding a touch of coastal charm to your home decor. Cost: $65. AR Workshop, 5501 Route 42, Turnersville. www.ARWorkshop.com/event.

Friday, July 26 –

Sunday, July 28

Seeking the Light Gathering to Bring Peruvian Shamans to Mt. Laurel - Kathy Milano is thrilled to announce the creation of a transformative event called the Seeking the Light Gathering. This unique gathering will feature three shamans from Peru’s Sacred Valley, sharing their wisdom, love, ceremonies and initiations. Unity Church at the Mt. Laurel Chapel. A Five-Day Immersion option (ending July 29) available at the Hampton Inn and nature locations in Mt. Laurel. This extended experience includes private teaching sessions for Mesa Carriers from any tradition. Limited private shaman healing sessions will also be available at Soul Sanctuary, in Moorestown, for anyone attending the event. www.KathyMilano. com/seeding-the-light-gathering

Barking Lot Sips and Brews – 5:308:30pm. Eat, drink, and more to save homeless animals! Enjoy We’ll food trucks, Tito’s cocktails & local brews, live music, corn hole, and more fun and games for the whole family. . Animal Welfare Association, 509 Centennial Blvd., Voorhees. www.AWANJ.org/events/barking-lot-sipsand-brews-july-2024

Saturday, July 27

Wags & Wiggles – 9:30-10:15am. A grownup-and-me-style class for children ages 2-4. This program will teach our littlest animal lovers about animal safety, kindness and compassion. Animal Welfare Association, 509 Centennial Blvd., Voorhees. www.AWANJ.org/education-programs/ wags-wiggles-toddler-classes

Tuesday, July 30

Free Online - Psychic & Intuition Development, 7pm. Join Certified Spiritual Mentor, Psychic Medium and Healer, Dawn Ricci, for a transformative session focused on psychic development. Learn to integrate your abilities into daily life, connect with inner wisdom, and embark on self-discovery. Email  Hello@ DawnRicci.com to access this Zoom event.

Thursday, August 29

Save-The-Date

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

Classifieds

For Rent

OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE – At hourly or daily rate for holistic wellness and energy healers. MysticGingerApothecary@gmail.com.

OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE – Integrative Physician looking to share office space in Voorhees. 856-669-9118.

Natural Supplements

ORGANIC PANCREAS DETOX TEA  Cleanse & Support Your Pancreas with this Targeted Blend. Samples Available. Visit EarthSanaStore.com/tea.

Finding Your Tribe

Coming in August

Be sure to let our advertisers know you found them in

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 NASouthJersey@gmail.com to request our media kit.

Alternative and Complementary Medicine

DR. SEAN C. INSELBERG, DAC, MSC, CNS

Nutritional Wellness Center 1 Cinnaminson Ave, Ste 206 Palmyra, NJ 08065 856-499-2160

www. NutritionalWellnessNJ.com

Offering simple, effective solutions for optimal health for the whole family. Includes: Functional Medicine testing, Othromolecular energy medicine, Neuro-Emotional Technique, Psycho neurobiology, autonomic response testing, Theta Healing.

Ancestral Energy and Pranic Healing

DANA REYNOLDS-MARNICHE, Ph.D.

Shaman-based Qi Channeler, Clairvoyant and Teacher

Mount Meru Holistic Earth Power Healing 856-993-1786

MtMeruHolistic.com/healing-testimonials

Highly trained with 35 yrs experience in mind-body healing, I utilize Korean Chunsu, a 5,000-yr-old therapeutic practice, involving the channeling of balanced Heaven-Earth cosmic qi energy to release negative ancestral patterns from the body and mind. Rapidly restores well-being, addresses anxiety, depression, treats hormonal, immune system and chakra imbalances, alleviates physical pain, rejuvenates body cells and clears toxins. Over time, a prevalence of harmony in one’s home and work environment and the ability to manifest abundance and protection become our natural state of being.

Awareness Coaching

MARYANN PINO MILLER, M.Ed.

Certified Heal Your Life® Teacher

Emotion Code Practitione

Consciously Living, LLC

The Center, Life in Balance 45 S Main St, Medford, NJ

856-912-2087

Maryann@ConsciouslyLiving.net

Become aware of your true nature, meet your inner child waiting for your love, become aware of and unload the baggage weighing you down, become aware of the depth of love that exists within you and gain the understanding of the importance of your relationship with yourself and how to foster it.

Ayurveda Wellness Coaching

SUSAN DESIDERIO, BA, LMT Ayurvedic Wellness Coach Pitman, NJ

856-535-7478

BlueHavenMassage@gmail.com

BlueHavenMassage.MassageTherapy.com

With over 20+ years’ experience in the Wellness industry, Susan specializes in holistic lifestyle management. She offers Ayurveda coaching, mindful movement classes, massage/reiki sessions.

Chiropractor

HARMONIOUS HEALINGS

HOLISTIC HEALTHCARE

30 Jackson Rd, D207 Medford, NJ 08055

856-359-6005

www. DrKevinG.com

Optimize your human potential holistically: functional neurology & kinesiology, stress release & neuro-emotional technique, structure & posture improvement with advanced biostructural correction, biophysics body optimizer.

SANO INTEGRATIVE WELLNESS

116 N Haddon Ave (Suite 201) Haddonfield, NJ 08033

856-484-5546

Instagram: @sanowellnessnj

Email: SANOWellnessNJ@gmail.com www.SANOWellnessNJ.com

Elevate Your Health with Dr. Lazo: Your Expert in Strength, Wellness, and Personalized Chiropractic care! Dr. Lazo isn’t your average chiropractor – he’s your partner in strength and healing. With a passion for weight lifting and a deep understanding of physical therapy, Dr. Lazo brings a unique blend of expertise and relatability to his practice. From the moment you walk in, you’ll feel welcomed. He’ll address your concerns, alleviate pain, and help you achieve peak performance. He takes the time to listen, understand your needs, and tailor treatment plans to suit your goals.

Counselor & Herbalist

MAGNOLIA TREE HEALING ARTS

Online/Telehealth Care

609-508-7330

www. MagnoliaTreeHealingArts.com

Slow down. Life is crossing the road.

—Debasish Mridha

Magnolia Tree Healing Arts offers psychotherapeutic herbal medicine, psycho-spiritual counseling, and analytically-oriented tarot consultations. Kristin offers complimentary consultations for potential counseling and herbal medicine clients.

Energy for Healing

INFINITE POSSIBILITIES CENTER LLC

801 Rte 73, Ste I, Evesham, NJ 08053

856-983-1767

Elsie@LoveInfinitePossibilities.com www. LoveInfinitePossibilities.com

The Energy Enhancement System (EESystem) generates multiple bio-active life-enhancing energy fields, including “scalar waves” which allow cell regeneration, improve immune function, provide relief from pain, detoxify the body, elevate moods, and assist in balancing the right and left brain hemispheres. The custom-installed system generates morphogenic energy fields that can promote healing. The EESystem has been recognized at dozens of medical, scientific and professional conferences around the world. This environmentally and ecologically safe system is used by individuals, doctors and therapists as well as Wellness Centers and Meditation Centers to improve human development and psychological well-being. EESystem combines body, mind, spirit and science to help you achieve peak performance and reach higher states of health, consciousness and self-actualization. The future is here!

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.

Functional Medicine

CHARLOTTE NUSSBAUM, MD

Medford Functional Medicine

107 Jamestown Ct, Medford 609-969-4844

www. MedfordFunctionalMedicine.com

Board-certified pediatrician and internist Charlotte Nussbaum is a founder of Medford Functional Medicine where we partner with people of all ages to reclaim their health.

Healing Modalities

NATURAL HEALTH IMPROVEMENT CENTER OF SOUTH JERSEY

1020 Kings Hwy. N., Ste 110 Cherry Hill, NJ

856-667-6805

www.NHICSouthJersey.com

Safe, natural solutions for many health problems. Get to the root of your symptoms and heal your body with Nutrition Response Testing. The practitioners at NHIC offer a non-invasive, advanced form of muscle testing for food sensitivities, chemical and metal toxicity, and immune system issues for all ages. Individualized, targeted, “Root-Cause Nutrition.”

Health Counseling

LIESHA GETSON, BCTT, HHC

Health Through Awareness

100 Brick Rd, Ste 206, Marlton

856-596-5834

www. HealthThroughAwareness.com

Liesha Getson is a Board-Certified Thermographic Technician, Holistic Health Counselor, a Reiki Master and Energy Practitioner. Liesha is a founding partner of Health Through Awareness, in Marlton, a cooperative wellness center that provides a variety of alternative services to facilitate healthy living including nutrition and lifestyle counseling, reiki, thermography, infrared detoxification and biopuncture.

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.

Hypnotherapy

DR. JAIME FELDMAN, DCH

Chairman, Medical & Dental Division, International Hypnosis Federation 214 W Main St, Ste L4 Moorestown, NJ 08057

856-231-0432 • DrJaimeF@aol.com www. PartsTherapy.com

Dr. Jaime Feldman, one of the pioneers in an advanced technique called “Advanced Parts Therapy,” has been able to unlock the subconscious and remove unwanted behaviors: stop smoking (guaranteed), weight loss, stress, depression, pain and anger management, and more. Outstanding success in curing phobias and deep-seated trauma, and treating the immune system to put cancer into complete remission.

Integrative Healing Health Coach

NEXT LEVEL HEALTH AND HEALING Desiree Bohn Cherry Hill, NJ 609-541-1087

NextLevelhh@outlook.com

Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach specializing in HEALING YOUR BODY with Food & Vitamins including Food Education, Skin Conditions, (Acne, Shingles, Eczema, Psoriasis, Rosacea, Vitiligo), Sleep Hygiene, High Cholesterol, Constipation, Fatigue, Bi-Polar, ADHD, Sciatica, Aches/Pains, Eating for Cancer prevention/treatment, Anxiety, Depression, Lyme Disease, Epstein Barr Virus, and Heavy Metal Poisoning.

—Van Morrison

Integrative/Holistic Medicine

DR. STEVEN HORVITZ

Institute for Medical Wellness

110 Marter Ave, Ste 408, Moorestown, NJ

856-231-0590

www. DrHorvitz.com

Board-Certified Family Medicine blending traditional family care with a holistic focus and preventive, nutritional and integrative approach. We look for causes and triggers for disease before reaching for the prescription pad. Same and next day appointments are available.

PHILIP GETSON, DO

Health Through Awareness

100 Brick Rd, Ste 206, Marlton, NJ 08053

856-596-5834

Health Through Awareness takes a holistic approach to health and well-being. Dr. Philip Getson is a board-certified Family Physician and certified by four Thermographic Boards. He specializes in thermography, an early diagnostic tool for many health conditions including breast health. With the mission of providing a balanced approach to wellness, the center offers diet and lifestyle counseling, thermography, the area’s most unique infrared detox sauna (The POD), reiki, a smoking cessation program, physician standard supplements and ongoing wellness classes.

Integrative Medicine/ Holistic Pain Management

POLINA KARMAZIN, MD

Board certified in Integrative Medicine & Acupuncture

2301 E Evesham Rd, Bldg 800, Ste 219 Voorhees, NJ 08043

856-528-2258

www.SouthJerseyHolistic.com

Our practice treats each person individually by addressing the root cause of the problem. Dr Karmazin employs holistic therapies, such as acupuncture, biopuncture, homeopathy and nutritional counselling for a variety of ailments. We also specialize in holistic pain management and do not use narcotics, NSAIDs or steroid injections.

Integrative Wellness

SANO INTEGRATIVE WELLNESS

116 N Haddon Ave (Suite 201) Haddonfield, NJ 08033

856-484-5546

Instagram: @sanowellnessnj

Email: SANOWellnessNJ@gmail.com www.SANOWellnessNJ.com

Dr. Far is a Naturopathic Doctor, Clinical Nutritionist and owner of Far Natural Health and SANO Integrative Wellness in Haddonfield, NJ. She currently specializes in personalized nutrition, integrative cancer care, metabolic health, and chronic illness. She uses functional lab testing, herbal medicine & other natural therapies to help her patients achieve the best quality of life.

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.

IV Therapy

PRIME IV HYDRATION & WELLNESS

900 Rte 73 N, Ste 890, Marlton 856-386-3251

www. PrimeIVHydration.com/locations/new-jersey/marlton-08053

Prime IV Hydration & Wellness is the nation’s leader in vitamin-infusion therapy. They offer a spa-like environment and utilize only the latest in cutting-edge intravenous (IV) therapies.

Medical Skincare and Cosmetics

DR. ANAMARIA NEWPORT, DMS, DMD, MHS, PAC 17 White Horse Pike, Ste 10B Haddon Heights, NJ 08035 856-323-8885

Dr. Newport is a discerning artist, highly experienced master cosmetic injector and renowned dermatology speaker with 10+ years of extensive medical training. Her continuous dedication for skincare, surgery, dentistry, and cosmetic procedures are enhanced by combining the use of the latest technology and her unique homeopathic style. As an artist, she is genuinely passionate about bringing out the unique beauty in each one of her patients. Look no further for your organic skincare specialist, offering the purest treatments achievable with our personalized natural products.

NEISH Iridology & Natural Health Consulting

KAREN LOVELACE

LMT, Master Iridologist, CNHP, Reiki Master Haddonfield, NJ 833-634-7428 www.4neish.com

At NEISH, we leverage eye analysis and natural health methods to get to the root cause of imbalances and chart individualized paths for our clients to be and feel their healthiest! Visit us online to view our services and schedule an appointment. Allow us to support you!

Numerologist

TRACI ROSENBERG, MA Numerologist & Empowerment Coach 609-417-4526

TraciRosenberg@gmail.com www. SoulTalkWithTraci.com

Join the region’s leading numerologist as you discover your life’s purpose. Encoded in your name and birth date are your lessons, talents and desires. Traci will help you realize your full potential. An early-morning walk is a blessing for the whole day.

—Henry David Thoreau

Nutrition for Busy Moms

MY ROCKERBEEZ BY BARBIE FAMIGLIETTI

Certified Nutritionist, Author, Speaker, Podcaster

310-728-5316

www.FoodSchool.MyRockerBeez.com/ welcome

Barbie has been in the health and fitness space for over 2 decades, helping clients achieve their personal best. After becoming a mom herself, her business shifted to focus on the busy mom life she has grown to love. If you struggle to make healthy meals for your kids or getting them to eat a single vegetable, often leads to tears, Barbie can help! Visit the link to learn more!

Outdoor Recreation & Pinelands Preservation

PINELANDS ADVENTURES

1005 Atsion Rd, Shamong, NJ 08088

609-268-0189

www. PinelandsAdventures.org

A nonprofit initiative of Pinelands Preservation Alliance. Recreational activities include guided/ unguided river paddling, camping, hiking and small group history and ecology forest tours.

Reiki

DR. JOCELYN FLAY, DAC

Nutritional Wellness Center

1 Cinnaminson Ave, Ste 206 Palmyra, NJ 08065

856-499-2160

www.NutritionalWellnessNJ.com

Open to the flow of reiki that is before you and experience the divine life force energy that is innate to all of us. You can heal, grow, process trauma, change your beliefs, create new experiences, and shift into a life that you love, and reiki can guide you. Individual reiki sessions and reiki courses are provided at the Nutritional Wellness Center.

Spiritual Coaching

THE SENTIENT SOUL, LLC

5243 NJ-49, Millville, NJ 08332

856-506-2461

www.TheSentientSoul.com

The Sentient Soul’s focus is on empowering clients through self-awareness to improve their emotional, mental and physical health through the use of reiki, biofield tuning and other sound healing modalities. As a Certified Reiki Master and Biofield Tuning Practitioner, I would like to assist you in your journey on becoming your best self.

Spiritual Wellness

BETH O’BRIEN

Spiritual Healing Through Guidance

The Center Life in Balance, 45 N Main St, Medford

On Angels Wings, 110 Creek Rd, Mt Laurel

BethOB67@yahoo.com

Beth, a psychic/medium, can give you spiritual and intuitive guidance from your loved ones. Beth is also a Reiki Master and an ordained minister to officiate your wedding. She also is a paranormal investigator and does private and public homes. She also does house blessings and cleansing.

Wellness Center

MYSTIC GINGER

36 S Black Horse Pk, Blackwood 856-563-6634

MysticGingerApothecary.com

Mystic Ginger is a Holistic Hair Studio, Herbal Apothecary, Community Wellness Space with weekly classes, workshops, gatherings and a Handmade Artist Boutique.

Yoga

RISE AND THRIVE WELLNESS YOGA Terry Veit-Harmening 714 E Main St, Moorestown 609-923-5782

RiseAndThriveWellnessYoga.com

Terry Veit-Harmening is a certified Yoga Therapist, a certified Ayurvedic Lifestyle Educator and a brain longevity specialist with the Alzheimer’s Research Association. Yoga Therapy is a holistic approach to health care using postures, movement, stretches, lifestyle choices, relaxation and breathing practices to address your specific issues.

Yoga & Holistic Healing

SARAH RICKERT

Awakened Spirit LLC

South Jersey Coping Clinic LLC 751 NJ-73 N. Suite 11 Marlton, NJ 08053 856-888-9121

AwakenedSpiritLLC@gmail.com www.AwakenedSpirit.life

Deepen and enhance your health and wellness with a dedicated healer Sarah, the owner of Awakened Spirit LLC. Through Sarah’s own traumas/ experiences, she learned how to heal which allows her to help others on their healing journeys from a deeper level of understanding. Sarah will guide you to balance your energy, clear your mind, and rejuvenate your soul with a variety of modalities. Sarah is a Reiki Master Practitioner, Trauma Informed Kundalini Yoga Teacher, Meditation Guide, and an Angel Oracle Reader.