2024 December Natural Awakenings Sarasota

We Treat:

• Chronic Pain

• Fibromyalgia

• Peripheral Neuropathy

• Nerve Pain

• Fertility Enhancement

• Failed Surgery Pain

• Gastrointestinal Disturbances

• Covid Long Hauler Symptoms

• Grief Loss Recovery

• Stress Induced Disturbances

We Put Your Head on Straight

(So You Can Achieve Optimal Health, Naturally)

If the first two bones in your neck are misaligned, communication between the brain and body is interrupted and can cause numerous health problems.

Dr. Drew Hall has practiced the Blair Upper Cervical Chiropractic technique for the last 20 years in Los Angeles and Carson California before opening his third clinic right here in Sarasota, Florida

Blair Upper Cervical Chiropractic is a unique chiropractic technique that focuses all its attention on the upper neck and how it impacts the brainstem and central nerve system. The Blair technique is precise, gentle, and does not use any pulling, popping, or twisting of the neck.

We have helped people with the following conditions:

•Auto Accidents

•Fibromyalgia

•Lower Back Pain

•Meniere’s Disease

•Neck Pain

•Sciatica

•Post-Concussion Syndrome

•TMJ

•Trigeminal Neuralgia

•Vertigo & Whiplash

“I have over 20 years of practice experience and taking care of 10,000 patients f rom Los Angeles to Sarasota Florida. I recovered f rom severe chronic health problems 30 years ago after being introduced to blair upper cervical technique. It’s my lasting purpose to help as many people as possible live a life of health and happiness”.

- Dr. Drew Hall

3920 Bee Ridge Rd, Bldg D, Sarasota, Fl 34233

The Natural Apothecary Shoppe

Natural Apothecary Shoppe

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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.

Publisher’s Letter

We have made it through another year, and it’s hard to believe this is the last issue of Natural Awakenings for 2024! As the holiday season ramps into full swing, we invite you to set aside intentional moments to rejuvenate and reconnect with yourself. The month of December is known for its hustle and bustle, but it’s also a time to prioritize meaningful relationships, festive traditions, nourishing meals, mindfulness practices, and holistic self-care rituals. On that note, let’s make this season one of deep connection, rejuvenation, and inspiration.

Our feature article for this issue is all about “Soulful Holiday Gifts” that focus on restoration over consumerism. There’s no denying it—this time of year can be stressful, so it’s important to extend the gift of self-care, both to your loved ones and yourself. Whether this takes the form of a soothing activity like an acupuncture session or a tangible item like an assortment of natural skincare products, investing in wellness will mean so much to each person on your list. Even a simple act of kindness such as treating a friend to coffee, delivering a home cooked meal, or curating a playlist of all their favorite songs will speak volumes.

While we’re on the subject of holiday gifts, our “Green Living” article dives into the benefits of online shopping to bolster the local business economy. If this sounds like an oxymoron, rest assured: We’re not talking about massive corporations—your favorite indie bookshop, clothing boutique, or small-batch herbal tea purveyor will increase its retail footprint, both virtually and in the community when you place an order on the store’s website. If you want to make an impact with your dollars this season, online shopping is a convenient way to do this. Is it even the holiday season without a batch of cookies, fresh out of the oven? This month’s “Conscious Eating” article offers some clever ingredient swaps to make those traditional cookie recipes more nutritious—but still equally delicious. Whether you need a gluten-free alternative to classic oatmeal cookies, or you want to moderate the sugar content of your famous cinnamon snickerdoodles, this article has a solution for all those baking quandaries. You’ll also find three recipes for indulgent but healthy plant-based cookies that everyone will love.

Well, that’s a wrap on our final issue of 2024. I am so grateful for another year of linking arms on this physical, mental, and spiritual wellness journey together. On behalf of the Natural Awakenings team, I hope you have a memorable and meaningful holiday season. We will see you right back here next month when the calendar turns to 2025!

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink.

For Wellness Living, Joy & Empowerment

Monday, Dec. 16 - Reiki Master Share, 7pm At Rising Tide, 5102 Swift Rd. Sarasota, FL.

Saturday, Dec. 21 - Winter Solstice Celebration, 6pm At Unity of Sarasota Labyrinth. Bring drum and folding chair for lovely evening of fire circle and ceremony.

Rev. Zan Benham (Butterfly Deerwoman)

Private sessions: Counseling, Energy work, Reiki Master III, Teacher, Shamanism, Hypnosis, Past life Regression, Soul Retrieval, Oracle Card Readings, Ceremonialist, Intuitive and Visionary www.woman-spirit.com • Zan@woman-spirit.com • 941-922-7839

The Center for Spiritual Living Cultural Coast Presents Practical Peacebuilding 2025

The Center for Spiritual Living Cultural Coast will offer three workshops on “Practical Peacebuilding” in 2025. Participants will learn practical skills for nurturing connections, building community, and transforming conflict. This series will be led by Rev. Theresa Fieberts, who holds two degrees in Human Development and Consciousness Studies and trained with the River Phoenix Center for Peacebuilding in Gainesville.

These workshops will be presented on the second Sunday of January, February, and March, at 1 p.m. The topics will include social-emotional learning, non-violent communication, restorative practices, and universal spiritual principles.

Each workshop will dive into practices, tools, and principles to resolve conflict safely, while promoting connection, evolution, and growth. The intention is to raise consciousness, nurture compassion, reinforce the interconnectedness of life, and explore avenues for both collective and personal change.

Participants will learn how to define their core values and effectively communicate their needs with clarity. Starting with interpersonal relationship skills, these workshops will bring trained practitioners into the community as Peacebuilders to facilitate conflict resolution coaching and restorative justice. Such practices can help reduce crime, violence, and bullying in order to strengthen civil society, repair harm, create effective leadership, and bolster relationships.

Location: Sarasota Garden Club, 1131 Blvd. of the Arts, Sarasota. To register, visit the “Events” page at CSLCulturalCoast.org. For more information, call 941-927-6212.

Specializing in Skincare and Body Treatments

Discover our Festive Holiday Offerings!

This season, choose between two luxurious facials: the Frankincense, Myrrh & Gold Facial or our Champagne & Chocolate Facial. Both facials are just $100 each, and gift certificates are also available—perfect for holiday gifting!

Our team is dedicated to Promoting Natural Beauty

Experience pure relaxation and renewal in our Relaxation Sanctuary. Each treatment is customized based on your skincare needs!

Offering the Most Innovative Products and Proven Technologies Available: Environ Signature facials • Glo2 facials • Free Balinese Facial Massage with Facial • Cool lifting • Advanced Skincare • Body Treatments.

Experience a Relaxing Massage Service or Acupuncture Session with Steph Schmitz, (LMT: MA 80163, AP 4538) with 10 yrs. experience.

ROOM

Hawthorne, St., Sarasota 941-203-6543

Discover Sarasota Tours Announces Christmas Carol Trolley

Discover Sarasota Tours announces its third annual “Christmas Carol Trolley: Letters To Santa” holiday tour of music and lights, which will run from December 1-23, at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. This seasonal favorite is a 75-minute family-friendly show filled with downtown lights, caroling down Main Street, holiday stories, and heartfelt performances featuring the Trolley Troubadours, an ensemble of professional singers and performers.

The cast includes Kaylene McCaw and Alexa Vetter Torres as Christmas Carol, along with local singers David Downer, Elise Krieger, Olivia Turpening and Austin Nichols as the Trolley Troubadours. The cost is $29.99 for kids, ages two-plus, and $53.99 for adults. Your ticket includes free soft drinks for kids and beer or wine for adults before boarding.

To purchase tickets, call 941-260-9818 or visit DiscoverSarasotaTours.com. For groups, email Info@DiscoverSarasotaTours.com.

The OM Shoppes Introduces Crystal Chimes

for a Harmonious Holiday Gift

This holiday season, The OM Shoppes is offering a truly unique gift that combines beauty, sound, and spirituality. Their new Crystal Chimes in Perfect Fourths and Fifths are a delightful way to bring musical harmony into a space, making them an ideal gift for music lovers, wellness enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a tranquil atmosphere.

Crafted with precision and tuned to the perfect intervals of fourths and fifths, these crystal chimes produce resonant, harmonious tones that will elevate the energy of a room. Whether placed in a home, yoga studio, or any other sacred space for meditation and relaxation, the chimes create a soothing soundscape that nurtures calm and balance.

The combination of the pure sound of crystal and the scientifically balanced intervals of fourths and fifths will ensure a musical experience that’s both calming and uplifting. These chimes also make memorable holiday gifts for anyone on your list.

Location: 4801 S Tamiami Trail, #5, Sarasota. For more information, call 941-706-3257 or visit TheOmShoppeandSpa.com.

Shop Local at Elysian Fields this Holiday Season

‘Tis the season to support local businesses. Sarasota has been through a lot of turmoil over these last couple months. Now more than ever, the impact of community cannot be underestimated. For over 33 years, Elysian Fields has been a cherished holiday shopping destination, offering unique hand-selected gifts, cards, books, and metaphysical items.

A peaceful alternative to mass market stores, Elysian Fields is an immersive space for relaxation and self-discovery, with intuitive readers available in-store. Elysian Fields also strives to collaborate with local artists, vendors, makers, and authors. This holiday season, Elysian Fields is proud to feature Plata Sterling, a true family-owned jewelry business in Tampa.

Plata Sterling, founded by Ken Newton in 1995, has evolved from his early experiences teaching English in Mexico City to importing and selling authentic sterling silver jewelry on Florida’s beaches and in Ybor City. Newton has also traveled to Italy, Bali, and Thailand, working with artisans from around the world to create unique pieces that reflect both quality and craftsmanship. Now in its second generation, Plata remains a true family business, handling all the design, assembly, and customer service from its Florida studio.

This year, make a conscious effort to include local vendors in your shopping plans. Whether it’s Elysian Fields or your favorite farmers market stand, remember that each purchase has the power to create a meaningful impact on our community.

Locations: 1273 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, and 8207 Cooper Creek Blvd., University Park, Sarasota. For more information, call 941361-3006 (Tamiami Trail) or 941-893-5787 (Cooper Creek), or visit ElysianFieldsGifts.com. Follow Elysian Fields on social media for updates on events, specials, and promotions.

Detox Naturally with Grateful Tonic

Grateful Tonic is a new woman-owned business in downtown Sarasota. Owner Jill Fieldman, MA #98304, refers to it as a wellness detox center because all the services can help facilitate natural detoxification. Toxins can be found in the air, ocean, food, household cleaners, candles, or even drinking water. Therefore, human bodies require continual detoxification to remain in a balanced, healthy state.

The services at Grateful Tonic include massage, skincare treatments, salt detox baths, cold plunges, infrared sauna, ionic foot detox baths, red light therapy, compression therapy, Reiki, cupping, and amp coils (PEMF and sound). These modalities offer holistic wellness benefits to keep you feeling rejuvenated. Incorporating the services here at Grateful Tonic into your 2025 self-care routine is a decision you won’t regret.

Fieldman has been passionate about holistic healing for 11 years, and she has taken a piece of knowledge from each healer she’s worked with and learned from to create Grateful Tonic. During the month of December, you can receive 20 percent off any service you’re interested in trying. Memberships, treatment packages, and gift cards are also available, just in time for the holiday season.

Location: 1744 4th St., Sarasota. For more information, call 941-504-9476 or visit GratefulTonic.com.

Ozone Therapy

Therapeutic ozone bonds with viruses, bacteria, mold, pesticides, parasites, metals, or anything that is toxic to the body and dissipates it on contact without any side-effects. Xavier Menard has been administering Ozone Therapy in a relaxing sauna cabinet, on a moderate temperature for 24 years.

Introducing AquaFit SRQ Water Fitness and

Aquatic Therapy

Do you want to dive into a new level of fitness and wellness? Then be sure to check out AquaFit SRQ which is the latest in water-based training that comes to your pool. With over 35 years of combined experience working in Miami, Stuart Davidson and Janelle Gilbert have joined forces to bring the benefits of their extensive experience in the water to Sarasota. They offer custom tailored water fitness and aquatic therapy programs which can help build strength, flexibility, and range of motion in a fun and positive atmosphere. All of this can be done in your own pool, facility of your choice or at their ongoing classes.

Davidson specializes in one-on-one water fitness and aquatic therapy sessions, while Gilbert leads invigorating groups, water aerobics classes and offers her unique brand of healing waters. Both have successfully worked with hundreds of clients, applying various modalities and utilizing specialized aquatic gear.

Whether you’re recovering from surgery, an expectant mom, a seasoned athlete, or an average adult or senior, they cater to everyone with their flexible options. If you have specific mobility or strength needs, their individualized one-on-one aquatic therapy is perfect for you. Their goal is to help you achieve amazing results, whether you’re aiming for peak performance or simply improving mobility.

For more information on the programs available and to learn about their special introductory offer, call 941-444-9992 or visit AquaFitSRQ.com.

Anti-Aging Seminars with Dr. Anna

Sound Therapy and Hypnotherapy for Emotional & Spiritual Well-Being.

www.theartofhealingwithsabrina.com

love@theartofhealingwithsabrina.com

Dr. Anna Baker, DOM, invites you to join her interactive anti-aging seminars via Zoom on December 4 and 13, both at 1:30 p.m. She will showcase her Faces by Dr. Anna acupuncture facelift and muscle retightening Pearl Cream by Dr. Anna. Please contact the Pearl Cream by Dr. Anna store to access the meeting ID number. If you cannot attend the seminar live, Dr. Anna will send you a link to watch at your own convenience.

Dr. Anna performs a unique type of acupuncture facelift that she invented. The muscles of the face and neck are progressively retightened to retrace the steps that aging took. An initial package of 10 treatments is required, and the results last for 18 months before you will need a one-treatment touchup to maintain the lift.

In these seminars, Dr. Anna will show photographed results on people of all ages. In addition, she will discuss her proprietary Pearl Cream by Dr Anna that offers the same muscle retightening as her acupuncture facelift in a slower, more gradual process. Her Pearl Cream is an anti-aging serum made from real pearls and Chinese herbs without any preservatives. Pearl Cream by Dr. Anna is also available as a muscle tightening body lotion, a men’s anti-aging line, and a sports performance line.

Step Into Your Power: Sacred

Masculine Circle at Wild Ginger Apothecary

Men from all walks of life are invited to join Wild Ginger Apothecary for a “Sacred Masculine Circle” on December 4, from 6:30–8

p.m. This dynamic experience will be facilitated by Bo, a certified Pranayama Yoga instructor who has training in Holotropic, a Wim Hof Method, and Rebirthing techniques. In a culture that often expects men to be stoic, this is a safe space to lower your armor, refine your strength, embrace authentic growth, open your heart, reconnect with the core of who you are, and explore what it means to cultivate healthy masculinity.

Through the practice of breathwork with a community of men, this Sacred Masculine Circle will encourage you to breathe intentionally, share openly, and hold space for yourself and others to evolve. This is an opportunity to relieve stress, deepen connections, alter consciousness, shift perspectives, and learn to balance power with vulnerability. Bring your voice, courage, and curiosity to this transformative experience, and let’s rise together.

Location: 6557 Superior Ave., Sarasota. Wild Ginger Apothecary hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 941312-5630 or visit WildGingerApothecary.com.

The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light Announces New Event

The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light is honored to welcome back world-renowned Dr. J.J. Hurtak of the Keys of Enoch, his wife Dr. Desiree Hurtak. and Alan Steinfield of New Realities TV. They will come to host a lecture on December 6, then stay through December 8. Dr. Hurtak’s insights stem from his experience with Enoch and Metatron.

“The Book of Knowledge: The Keys of Enoch®” is a multi-level teaching that explains issues of the future in unique spiritual and scientific language. The Keys examine various puzzles of life and give a spiritual explanation as to why we exist in this reality. This provides insights into our past, present, and future cosmology, connected with a blueprint to explore the next stage of humankind’s evolution into a higher state of consciousness.

From astronauts to physicists, the most brilliant minds have been influenced by the work of Drs. Hurtak. Because the last of these Keys will be in 2025, their work offers crucial information for the times we are in now.

Location: 5041 Ringwood Meadow, Sarasota. For more information, call 941-371-9333 or visit AwakeningToOurDivineNature.SplashThat.com and CCOSL.com.

Holiday Specials at Ritual Room Spa

This season, you can choose between two luxurious facials at Ritual Room Spa for just $100 each. The Frankincense, Myrrh, and Gold facial is a rejuvenating, hydrating experience that calms inflammation and reveals your skin’s natural glow. The Champagne and Chocolate facial is an indulgent combination of chocolate’s rich aroma and a bubbly champagne oxygen therapy. This antioxidant-packed facial brightens, protects, and renews the health of your skin.

Ritual and Spa’s reception boutique is another sought-after destination for holiday gifts. Explore a stunning curated selection of Italian clothing, linens, silks, and accessories. All Italian leather purses are now $60. You’ll also find exquisite jewelry, Environ skincare, Hush & Hush vitamins and collagen products, and more. Holiday gift certificates are also available.

Location: 2088 Hawthorne Street, Sarasota. For more information, to purchase a gift certificate, or schedule a treatment, call 941-203-6543 or visit RitualRoomSpa.com.

Dr. Joy Pedersen Offers Guidance for Spiritual Awakening

This world of duality comes with challenges. We are here for a purpose, to accomplish certain goals over the course of our lifetimes. Many of us are awakening spiritually to realize there is more to life than we have been raised to believe. Even though we can all turn within for answers, this is not always a simple task, and we don’t always find the answers we seek.

The spiritual path can be fraught with uncertainty, and there are many perspectives to choose from when searching. It’s normal to feel helpless when confronted by all this uncertainty.

Source has guided Dr. Joy Pedersen to offer a safe container for the spiritually awakened through their ascension. She creates a place to ask questions and receive spiritual healing in numerous areas such as money, relationships, careers, global or government concerns, and even the weather. Dr. Joy hosts a monthly call on Zoom to meet folks where they are and provide healing, education, and guidance from Heaven.

On these calls, she will offer techniques to empower you to recognize and dive into opportunities for growth and expansion. Ascended masters and archangels also participate in an 11:11 international two-hour Zoom call on the first Saturday of each month.

For more information, call 941-220-6245 or visit SacredCircle.live. To schedule an appointment, email Info@ExpressSuccess.net. To look for gifts, visit GiftsfromJoy.com.

New Seasonal Kombucha Flavors Available Now at Flobucha

Come visit Sarasota’s first non-alcoholic bar, focused 100 percent on kombucha. Flobucha is a brewery and taproom located in the beautiful Gulfgate Village which produces and serves premium raw kombucha, fermented to perfection.

Flobucha comes in a variety of unique flavors, all of which are meticulously crafted and balanced. In addition to the six flagship flavors, you can also taste the new limited-quantity seasonal options: Elderberry Lemon Turmeric and Pumpkin Spice. They also now have kombucha based sparkling non-alcoholic wine alternatives called Winesque and a non-alcoholic IPA beer alternative. Wine alternative flavors include Rose, CAB and their new white wine addition based on Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Try a six-flight kombucha sampler for $12.95, which can be mixed or matched with kombucha, wine or beer.

delicious, but it’s also rich in natural probiotics, healthy organic nutrients and antioxidants.

The Flobucha taproom is a fun place to hang out as well. Join us Thursdays for a free Kombucha tasting from 5-6 p.m. Also, on the second Wednesday of each month from 6:30-7:30 p.m. join us for a talk on how to support overall gut health with the owner of Flobucha along with Dr. Jeanine Fedorko. Questions will be addressed along with recommendations to support your gut health.

Location: 2725 Mall Dr., Sarasota. Hours: Tuesday–Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, email Info@ Flobucha.com, visit Winesque.com or follow via social media at @ flobucha on Instagram and @Flobucha on Facebook.

Embrace Community at Unity of Sarasota

All flavors are brewed with all-natural, organic ingredients, raw, unfiltered and never pasteurized. Not only does this kombucha taste

Unity of Sarasota is a loving, diverse community that welcomes everyone. Our mission statement reads, “We are a beacon of light and love, opening minds, touching hearts and transforming lives.” In our services, classes, and workshops, we provide you with tools to free yourself from limiting beliefs, raise your consciousness and unlock the immense power that lies within you. Our teachings are both practical and effective.

Reclaim Your Health Naturally at Sandhill Healing Center

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At Sandhill Healing Center, we offer a range of integrative therapies to help you achieve wellness naturally. Discover the benefits of Acupuncture for pain relief and stress reduction, Herbal Medicine to support overall health, Massage Therapy to rejuvenate body and mind, and Thermography for advanced, non-invasive health screening. Our expert team is dedicated to helping you live with balance, vitality, and peace.

Sandhill Healing Center

Where healing is personalized, natural, and empowering.

2484 Caring Way, Suite D • Port Charlotte 941 235-8929 • www.sandhillhealing.com

We offer a myriad of tools to help transform your thinking and awaken the power of love within you. There is an immense intelligence in your heart, waiting to be unleashed. Love heals and unifies. When the heart is open wide, there is plenty of room for the essence of love to heal our wounds, to nurture your souls and to mend the broken places.

If you want to release blocks that hold you back and embrace a new way of living, come to our Sunday Services at 10:30 a.m. You can also contact our Senior Minister, Reverend Elizabeth Longo for spiritual coaching or counseling.

Unity of Sarasota also invites you to join us for our Holiday Services. On December 24, at 7 p.m., we will host a Candlelight Service with live music. On December 29, at 10:30 a.m., we will have a Burning Bowl Service where you can clear whatever blocks might affect you. There will also be a meditation to tap into your heart’s desires and create intentions for 2025.

Location: 3023 Proctor Rd., Sarasota. For more information, call 941955-3301, email Rev.Elizabeth@UnityOfSarasota, or visit UnityOfSarasota.org.

MINDFULNESS APP HELPS INTENSIVE CARE PATIENTS

Individuals recovering from critical illnesses that spend time in an intensive care unit (ICU) frequently experience depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. Existing interventions in and out of the hospital have not been effective in relieving the psychological distress symptoms of these patients. A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine tested various ways of delivering a mobile app-based mindfulness intervention to ICU survivors.

The study included 247 ICU patients that had been in the hospital for an average of more than 15 days and in the ICU for an average of almost seven days. The patients were randomly assigned to one of eight intervention groups that evaluated different combinations of treatment elements, including an introductory session via mobile app or therapist call, a once- or twice-daily guided mindfulness meditation regimen, and management of increasing symptoms via mobile app or therapist call. While all eight groups showed significant improvements in their psychological distress symptoms after three months, the optimal intervention included an app-based in troduction, twice-daily guided meditations and an app-based re sponse when a participant had increasing symptoms of depression.

High Vibration

STEM-CELL TREATMENT TO REVERSE TYPE 1 DIABETES

Reports from an early phase 1 clinical trial are encouraging for the reversal of Type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the pancreas’s insulin-producing cells. Without insulin, blood sugar builds up in the bloodstream and causes damage to the body. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 1.7 million Americans have the disease, for which there currently is no cure.

The study, published in the journal Cell, reported on the progress of a 25-year-old woman with Type 1 diabetes who underwent stem-cell therapy made from her own cells. She began producing her own insulin less than three months after the treatment and continued to be free from insulin injections after one year. More research and development of cost-effective manufacturing processes are needed before a stem cell-derived therapy will be available to patients.

Boho Boutique

Boho Boutique

Winning the Battle of “The Bulge” this Holiday Season

by Dr. Laura Korman

It’s that time of year again when my patients share with me how difficult it is to resist the frequent and overwhelming temptation for holiday treats. It comes as no surprise that the average American anticipates packing on an extra two to five pounds each holiday season. While many intend to lose this weight in the New Year, more often than not, those few extra pounds will only continue to accumulate, which can lead to obesity or chronic illness. So, I want to share some practical ways to navigate this season, and overcome unhealthy temptations without depriving yourself.

The first step is to create a plan or intention before walking into those holiday parties, where you’re sure to encounter a plethora of sweet breads, pies, cakes, cookies, salty chips, crackers, trail mixes, hot chocolate, toddies, or other sweet cocktails. Most of the festive foods we love are high in refined sugars and processed carbohydrates. These foods can quickly raise blood sugar levels, which results in elevated insulin and excess fat storage around the waistline. Excess fat in this part of the body is dangerous, as it can be a contributing factor to diabetes, heart disease, or even dementia. Here are a few intentions to keep in mind before attending a next holiday event.

Do not enter the environment hungry. Eat a nutritious snack before you arrive like a handful of nuts, a hard boiled egg, an avocado, raw vegetables and hummus, or a few ounces of pasture raised chicken or turkey. These foods contain protein and healthy fats to keep your blood sugar levels stable and equip you with will-power to avoid overeating empty calorie, carbohydrate-rich foods.

Hydrate before and during a holiday event. Avoid drinking water from one-time-use plastic bottles, as these are toxic to our

bodies and our planet. Consume filtered, or reverse-osmosis water and use a glass or stainless steel container to store your water. Optimal hydration will help satiate hunger and keep you from over consuming sweets, alcohol, or other sugary drinks. Since the Holidays are a time of sharing, this is an ideal opportunity to make some grain-free or low-carbohydrate treats to bring with you to the seasonal festivities. Bake with almond or coconut flours and use natural, low-glycemic sweeteners such as Swerve (erythritol), Lakanto (monk fruit), or Allulose. This way, there will always be something on-hand that you can savor and share with others. There are also recipes to make holiday drink mixers with low-carb sweeteners. Avoid artificial sweeteners like Sucralose, as this sugar is shown to negatively impact immune health.

One of my favorite and most powerful strategies to survive the holidays without extra weight gain is to implement the ancestral practice of intermittent fasting or time-restricted feeding. I recommend this to patients and follow it myself all year long, as it has been shown to improve lean body composition, brain health, mitochondria function, and immune strength. Intermittent fasting promotes autophagy, in which the body eliminates dead or dysfunctional cells, reduces inflammation (the root of chronic illness), and promotes longevity.

The two most common types of fasting include time-restricted feeding, in which you consume all your calories within a specific window of time (i.e. eat in an eight- to 10-hour window and fast the other 14–16 hours). The other method is alternate day fasting, in which you consume 500–600 calories, one to two days a week, ideally limiting food intake to bone broth or healthy protein and above-ground vegetables, while avoiding any form of sugar, grain, or processed carbohydrates. Then, you’ll consume a normal diet for the remaining five days.

This version of fasting mimics our ancestors’ feast and famine lifestyle, which makes it an effective way to burn waistline fat and maintain a healthy lean body mass. Fasting should not be practiced with children, or while pregnant or breast-feeding. Consult with a doctor if you have insulin dependent diabetes, hypoglycemia, or another chronic illness before starting.

If we remain well-hydrated, consume healthy protein and fats, bake healthy low-glycemic sweets or beverages to share, and practice intermittent fasting or time restricted feeding, we can enjoy the occasional overindulgence of our favorite treats. These mindful intentions will help us win the “battle of the bulge” this season without depriving ourselves in the process. Incorporate these strategies into your normal wellness routine as the New Year unfolds for a healthier start to 2025.

Dr. Laura Korman, DC, is a functional medicine practitioner, chiropractor, and nutritional counselor. She is also the owner of Korman Relief and Wellness Center, located at 16954 Toledo Blade Blvd., Port Charlotte. For more information and to schedule an appointment, call 941-629-6700 or visit DrLauraKorman.com.

Healing Hip Pain

by Eric Winder, DC

Hip pain can drag a person down. The hip joint is close to our bodies’ center of gravity and becomes involved in almost any movement we make. When a painful hip becomes tight and restricted, it can also lead to arthritis. This means that successful treatment of hip pain not only offers pain relief but an improved quality of life and more long-term mobility.

My practice focuses on the connective tissue called fascia and its role in causing pain and dysfunction in the body. A high percentage of hip pain issues start with fascia restrictions, but we can help resolve this pain by treating those restrictions. The reasons behind hip pain can be complex, so I will take you through the case of a real patient to offer insight into my process of helping to heal this difficult, but treatable issue.

A patient I will refer to as Mary came to my office complaining of pain in her left hip, which caused her to limp and limited her ability to perform daily activities. She had difficulty lifting up her legs and was not sleeping well. The pain often woke her anytime she shifted in her sleep. She had fallen on that same hip two years prior

after slipping on a wet floor, but had only experienced pain for about two weeks. She had not thought much about that incident again until I asked her about previous injuries in the hip area.

A thorough examination came next. In addition to evaluating a body part’s rangeof-motion, muscle tone, strength, and tenderness, there are three specific issues I look for when evaluating hip issues. These include fascia restrictions affecting the hip muscles, fascia restrictions of the hip joint and nearby joints, and degenerative changes in the hip that can be found through an X-ray or MRI. All of these factors played a role in identifying the causes of Mary’s pain—and in successfully treating it.

Fascia Restrictions

The hip joint’s mobility is made possible by several different muscles, both large and small. These muscles maintain their structural toughness with a fibrous connective tissue called fascia which can become restricted from injury or repetitive stress. In this case, Mary’s fall had caused the fascia to stiffen in specific muscles.

On examination, two of her large hip muscles (gluteus maximus and psoas) and one smaller muscle (pectineus) showed fascia. As a result, her gluteal muscle was weak, and the psoas and pectineus muscles were abnormally tight. This muscle imbalance, in turn, created instability in the hip and caused repetitive stress to the joint tissues.

I mentioned earlier that nearby joints can be a problem, and in Mary’s case, she also had fascia restriction in the front of her left sacroiliac joint, which limited its range-of-motion. This had most likely occurred at the time of her fall. When a joint is restricted, other nearby joints often are also affected. As a result, Mary’s fascia restriction created a slight twist of her pelvic posture that caused further misalignment of her hip joint.

Arthritis

Arthritis and degenerative change are always possibilities when significant hip pain occurs. Mary’s pain had persisted for several months, and she had consulted with an orthopedist who performed an MRI. The images showed a small bone spur and mild loss of joint cartilage in the left hip joint. The orthopedist had prescribed her physical therapy, which is often a helpful alleviation for hip pain. However, in Mary’s case, because of the fascia restrictions, physical therapy intensified her problem even more.

Overall, there were numerous factors contributing to Mary’s pain. At the top of this list of concerns was the bone spur because this is a relatively permanent change. The question in a situation like this is whether the bone spur causes the pain, or if it is something else entirely. To find the answer, I performed a basic test.

I took Mary’s hip through its range-ofmotion to see which directions of movement were painful. The most intense pain occurred with a combined flexion and rotation outward (lifting her thigh forward and outward). I then retested this same motion while holding pressure at points of fascia restriction. This pressure makes

the restricted fascia temporarily relax. Her range-of-motion and comfort increased which told me that her pain was, at least in part, due to fascia restrictions—not just the bone spur.

After a series of treatments to release the tight connective tissue, Mary’s left sacroiliac joint returned to normal motion. Her hip muscles regained tone and strength, and her hip could move freely again with just mild discomfort at the far end of its range-of-motion. I find it typical that arthritic changes like spurs and joint narrowing can cause some minimal discomfort, but are not usually the main source of chronic pain.

Scar Tissue

When it comes to hip pain, Mary’s case is not uncommon, but another form of hip problem I also treat involves pain after surgery. This was not a consideration with Mary, but is one I see often in my office. Sometimes the scar tissue from incisions made during an operation can distort or restrict fascia, resulting in painful motion and weight-bearing in the affected hip.

Fortunately, this issue can be easily treated with gentle fascia release in the scar tissue. I find that treating fascia restrictions is helpful for all kinds of hip pain issues. Even in the occasional case of severe arthritis that requires surgery, treating fascia problems can restore function and improve the success of rehabilitation after surgery.

Making sure the joints and muscles in the area are functioning correctly allows for a smoother recovery. Mary returned to all her normal activities, including a two-mile daily walk without pain. This type of success is common, and I recommend fascia therapy as a conservative treatment for successful and sustainable hip pain relief.

Sarasota Center of Light

Crystal Cave

Dr. Eric Winder has been practicing chiropractic for 27 years. His practice emphasizes relieving pain and restoring alignment and motion with gentle fascia release therapies. For more information, call 941-9578390 or visit Gentlebay.com.

‘Tis the Season for Reconnection

by Dr. Fred Harvey

The holiday season is here once again—but while our culture often refers to it as the most wonderful time of year, it can also be immensely stressful. As human beings, we are on this planet to cultivate and nurture relationships, but sometimes those relationships can become fragmented. We experience division in our society, which can cause some disconnection in our normal routines and interactions with others. That’s why reconnection is so important. Evidence shows loneliness can lead to medical issues and significant disruption in our lives. Fortunately, this season can serve as a poignant reminder to invest in relationships and reconnection. Many organizations have been created to help facilitate this, and one such example is Motivating the Masses. This organization is the passion project of Lisa Nichols, and it’s here at Motivating the Masses where I have found a new family. Motivating the Masses cultivates an atmosphere of connection to embrace authentic relationships, while learning to be more present and honest with ourselves at the same time.

When we connect with others, we can discover a better sense of self. Our lives become more enriched, as we share freely love and positive energy with those around us. So, as we enter the holiday season and step into this final month of the year, it’s time to reach out, reconnect, and rejuvenate through our relationships. We can make bridges with our friends and family members, while nurturing new connections in the process. We can all benefit from more unconditional love in our relationships—because love heals everything.

Dr. Fred Harvey is currently accepting patients at Functional Medicine Florida. Dr. Harvey is the Medical Director of Functional Medicine Florida. He is quadruple board-certified in Internal Medicine, Geriatric Medicine, Functional Medicine, and Holistic-Integrative Medicine, specializing in chronic illness recovery and prevention, as well as defiant aging practices. For more information, call 941-9299355 or visit FunctionalMedicineFlorida.com.

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Uplift and Inspire this Holiday Season: Q&A with Elysian Fields

by Mary-Elizabeth Meagher

We all have that one person on our holiday gift list: The friend or family member who insists they don’t want any more “stuff” to unwrap this season. Of course, you will shop for this loved one regardless because—well, that’s the holiday spirit!

But rather than ordering them a trinket online and watching it become clutter in their home, surprise your friend or relative with a sincerely unique, unexpected gift that feels like so much more than just an afterthought. If you’re not sure where to find these gifts, allow me to offer a piece of advice: Start with Elysian Fields. This metaphysical and holistic wellness destination has been

an integral part of the Sarasota community for almost 35 years. From essential oils and healing crystals, to artisan accessories and fragrant candles or incense, there’s something for everyone who wants to pursue healthy, conscious, balanced living in the New Year.

On that note, I spoke with Tony Gillette, owner of Elysian Fields, for more insight on what this local institution has to offer—both over the holiday season and all year long. I hope our conversation will leave you inspired (or at least ready to tackle that shopping list)!

Natural Awakenings: Can you describe the atmosphere of Elysian Fields, especially during this season as folks do their holiday shopping?

Tony Gillette: At Elysian Fields, we aim to create an atmosphere that feels like a sanctuary—an environment where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of this holiday season. Our store is filled with soothing aromas, warm lights, and soft, ambient music to welcome our guests into a tranquil space. Many customers tell us they feel a sense of calm as soon as they step inside, which is the experience we always hope to cultivate. This time of year, we also decorate the store with seasonal touches to reflect warmth and wonder, which makes it a perfect location to find unique, meaningful, and intentional gifts.

NA: What products are available at Elysian Fields, where do they come from, and what features do you look for when sourcing these products?

Gillette: We offer a curated selection of items to inspire and uplift everyone who walks through the door. Our shelves are filled with crystals and gemstones, unique jewelry, essential oils, incense, metaphysical books, tarot and oracle cards, and artisan-crafted home décor. We source these products from local artisans and trusted global vendors, carefully choosing items that most align with our values of quality, authenticity, and positive energy. We are particularly drawn to handcrafted items from sustainably sourced materials, as they reflect our belief in supporting conscious creators and offering products with real intention and meaning.

NA: What metaphysical services do you offer at Elysian Fields, and how can these be incorporated into someone’s wellness and self-care ritual?

Gillette: Along with our products, we also offer services that nurture personal growth and spiritual well-being. These include intuitive readings, private events, and house clearings, each tailored to help our customers reconnect with themselves and their environment in a deeper way. Intuitive readings foster both insight and guidance for those who need clarity, while house clearings refresh and renew the energy in a home to make it a welcoming and harmonious space. We also facilitate private events for those who want to gather their friends or family for a unique, shared experience in a home or office setting.

NA: Do you have any specific seasonal offerings in the month of December, and are there any exciting updates for Elysian Fields in 2025?

Gillette: While we do not offer December-specific promotions, we celebrate the spirit of generosity all season with diverse gift options at a wide variety of price points. We often feature items that are both meaningful and beautiful, which makes it easy to find a special gift for every person on your list. We are also excited to continue offering new ways for our community to embrace metaphysical and wellness practices as we enter 2025!

Elysian Fields has two convenient locations for a seamless and accessible holiday shopping experience: 1273 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, and 8207 Cooper Creek Blvd., University Park, Sarasota. For more information, call 941-361-3006 (Tamiami Trail) or 941893-5787 (Cooper Creek), or visit ElysianFieldsGifts.com. You can also follow Elysian Fields on social media for more updates on future events, specials, and promotions.

Rise of Shampoo, Conditioner and Dish Soap Bars

The use of shampoo, conditioner and dish soap bars is gaining traction among eco-conscious consumers seeking a more sustainable future.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

Although the liquid form of these products may be convenient, their environmental impact is significant. Most come in plastic bottles, only 5 to 6 percent of which are recycled. The rest languish in landfills or break down into microplastics that flow into the waterways, harming marine life and ecosystems. The vast majority of these liquid products contain harmful chemicals such as sulfates and parabens that are detrimental to human health and end up in the water supply.

BENEFITS OF BARS

According to beauty bar manufacturer Ethique, one bar can last as long as two to three plastic bottles of the liquid counterpart, saving money and reducing waste. A number of companies produce bars that are free from harmful chemicals and are sold in minimal, compostable packaging. Bars are travel-friendly, with no airline restrictions. They weigh less than a regular-sized bottle of shampoo, and there is no risk of spillage in luggage.

Dish soap bars are highly concentrated, so they last longer. Many are made from natural ingredients that are gentle on the skin and safe for the environment. They eliminate the need for plastic bottles and often come in recyclable or compostable packaging. Use them for washing dishes, cleaning surfaces and handwashing delicate items.

PURCHASING TIPS

Choose products with natural ingredients and minimal packaging, and brands that prioritize sustainability and transparency, offering detailed information about their practices and ingredients. If a company is vague or evasive, look elsewhere.

Ethique, Lush and EcoRoots, for example, offer high-quality, eco-friendly bars that cater to a variety of needs. Ethique is known for its zero-waste commitment. Lush offers a wide range of handmade bars with unique scents and ingredients. EcoRoots focuses on natural, sustainable products for eco-conscious consumers.

Certifications by USDA Organic, Fair Trade and Leaping Bunny indicate that a product meets specific environmental and ethical standards. A label listing natural ingredients is a good sign, but be wary of vague terms like “green” or “eco-friendly” without specifics to back them up.

USAGE TIPS

To prolong the life of bars and ensure they remain effective and hygienic, keep them dry between uses and use a soap dish with drainage holes or a reusable tin for storage. It might take a few tries to become accustomed to using solid bars, but they are just as effective as their liquid counterparts. Rub the bar between the hands or directly onto hair or dishes, then rinse thoroughly. High-quality bars can produce an impressive lather.

Soulful Holiday Gifts

Restorative Presents for Loved Ones

by Marlaina Donato

Winter urges us to schedule more downtime, but the festive season can sweep us into a whirlwind of time-sensitive preparations, social gatherings and the nurturing of our loved ones. Between the office party and taking the family feast out of the oven, self-care can easily be forgotten, and we may wind up feeling overwhelmed.

Many of us are stressed out. According to a 2023 survey by the American Association of Retired Persons, 50 percent of caregivers are burdened emotionally from maintaining the role, and four in 10 caregivers rarely, if ever, feel relaxed. A national survey conducted by The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that 62 percent of parents feel the weight of burnout. Earlier this year, the American Psychological Association revealed in a survey that 57

percent of workers are enduring work-related stress in the form of burnout, anger and emotional exhaustion.

This giving season, remembering family members near and far, as well as service providers, teachers, emergency personnel, nurses and tradespeople, can provide relief (and even a sprinkle of magic) to those that make a meaningful difference in our lives. While sharing holiday joy with others, it is important to also gift ourselves with soothing activities and helpful items to temper holiday stress.

THE GIFT OF SELF-CARE

“Self-care needs to happen daily—whether meditation, journaling, taking yourself out for a cup of coffee with a book, cooking yourself nourishing food or even dancing

to your favorite song in the kitchen,” says Caitlin Ball, a health and lifestyle coach in Zurich, Switzerland. “Sometimes, planning to have no plans is a special treat, especially for those of us that have packed calendars. Even if you’re spending the holidays with family, you don’t have to spend every waking minute together, and everyone will be happier if you are happy.”

Whether we go online to create a curated box of comfort for ourselves or surprise someone with a gift certificate from their favorite yoga studio or nail salon, acknowledging body, mind and spirit can be the ultimate gesture of generosity. “Gifting self-care to someone else is like saying, ‘I see you fully.’ It acknowledges that a person is more than just their day-to-day roles or responsibilities—they have emotional, physical and mental needs,” says Chrissa J. Santoro, senior director of

communications at the Omega Institute for Holistic Studies, in Rhinebeck, New York.

Investing in someone’s peace or transformation outlasts and outshines less thoughtful presents. “Gifting a retreat experience, workshop or wellness service to a loved one is like giving them permission to prioritize themselves—a gift many people hesitate to give themselves, especially after hardship, long work weeks or grief,” Santoro asserts. “These experiences create a space for someone to step away from the stress, noise and demands of daily life, giving them a chance to reset. This kind of thoughtful gift offers not only physical rest, but also emotional renewal, reminding them of their own worth and helping them rebuild strength from the inside out.”

A self-care gift can be as simple as a basket of locally made artisan bread or as life-changing as a personalized therapeutic intervention. “Maybe that holiday gift is a gift certificate to see a coach, a counselor or a therapist,” suggests Paula Forte, an integrative health and wellness coach in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, who specializes in helping caregivers that too often care for others more than themselves.

Forte spent 45 years working as a registered nurse before becoming her husband’s caregiver when he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. She knows firsthand the downward spiral of self-neglect. Her suggestions for mindful gift-giving include a week of meal delivery service, especially if eating healthy has been a challenge; simple pleasures, such as a canister of fragrant tea or a bouquet of flowers; or a ticket to a botanical garden, inviting the recipient to spend healthful time out in nature. Slipping a gift certificate into a holiday card for prepaid healthy lunches, a pickleball membership or the services of a home organizer might usher in a positive new chapter.

THE PAMPERED PATH

Since ancient times, people have sought luxurious and therapeutic respite in baths and the use of precious oils and scents. From hot stone massage to aromatherapy

spa treatments, today’s bodywork modalities offer something for everyone. Pampering might be seen as a vanity-driven practice, but heading to the nearest spa or salon is a surefire way to boost endorphins that not only improve mood but lower stress hormones such as cortisol, promoting the body’s natural state of homeostasis. A 2020 study published in the journal Scientific Reports found that 10 minutes of massage, as well as simple rest, significantly reduces systemic stress by prompting the nervous system to switch into parasympathetic mode.

Giving someone a pampering experience can be a wonderful way to bring them fully back to all their senses. “A great option is a gift certificate to your favorite spa for a facial or a skincare basket to create that selfcare routine at home,” says Diana DePaoli, holistic esthetician, herbalist and owner of Aura+Bloom, in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. “Men need self-care, too. According to my husband, Danny, it is sleep and a good shave, followed up with some extra love for his beard with my chamomile serum.”

DePaoli’s energy facials include tuning-fork sound healing, as well as reiki, an energyhealing modality, combining physical and spiritual restoration in one session. Even à la carte spa treatments like Himalayansalt massage or foot reflexology does a body and soul good.

GIFTING KINDNESS, TIME AND PRESENCE

Making someone’s world light up this

holiday season doesn’t need to involve expensive presents. Creating a special music playlist, serving breakfast in bed or inviting a neighbor out for coffee are simple, but lovely, gestures that make a person feel special. “I think coupons for experiences you can do together are very meaningful, and you get to spend quality time together. Maybe a coupon for a day hike and picnic, or a movie night with lots of fun snacks,” recommends Ball, adding, “The older people in our lives just want to hear from us or spend time with us. Give them a coupon saying you will call them once a week.”

Forte’s low-cost suggestions include “a book of coupons to run errands they simply don’t have time to complete, like taking their kids to a museum or park, returning the purchase that was the wrong size or detailing their car.” For DePaoli, inexpensive but thoughtful gifts can also fill someone’s belly with love. “You can’t go wrong with making someone a homemade meal or dessert,” she suggests.

ADOPTING A SELF-CARE MINDSET

Self-care is vital during the holidays and beyond. DePaoli says, “Being able to rest and reboot is very important to being able to have the energy and mindset to move forward in anything.” And according to Forte, “Self-care isn’t selfish. It is self-preservation.”

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

Healthier Holiday Cookies

Easy Switches That Don’t Compromise on Taste

by Maya Whitman

Whether it’s chunky chocolate chip, classic sugar, jammy rugelach, spicy gingerbread, Russian teacakes or cinnamon-dusted snickerdoodles, the holidays would not be complete without a festive array of cookies. Seasonal favorites usually pack on the sugar, but with a little know-how, whipping up healthier versions can be both easy and fun.

“The most important thing to remember is that the techniques are the same; only the ingredients have changed,” says Christina Pirello, Emmy Award-winning host of the national public television cooking show Christina Cooks! and author of 13 plantbased cookbooks. “Even healthy versions of cookies can feel indulgent while being better for you. Use the best quality ingredients you can, and you’ll never go wrong.”

SUGAR SAVVY

Most conventional cookie recipes require up to two cups of sugar, not-so-good news for any health-conscious sweet tooth, but alternatives are plentiful. “With the caveat that most sweetener substitutions require some adjustments to make sure the final texture still works, there are some fabulous options that up the nutrients, add more flavor and depth and pack much less of a glycemic punch,” says Katie Wells, founder of Wellness Mama, an online resource for women and moms that want to live a healthier life.

The glycemic index (GI) is a value used to measure how much specific foods increase blood sugar levels on a scale of zero to 100, where sugar is 100. Numerous studies have found that following a low GI diet

may reduce blood sugar levels and improve blood sugar management in people with Type 2 diabetes.

Monk fruit and unprocessed forms of stevia, a plant-based sweetener, are bloodsugar friendly and nutritious when used alone, but are controversial when combined with erythritol, a sugar alcohol that, based on recent studies, is suspected of increasing the risk for blood clotting, stroke and cardiovascular events.

For Pirello, baking without pseudo sweeteners or processed sugar does a body good while imbuing festive favorites with even deeper flavor. “For me the best options for cookies are coconut sugar and beet sugar as both are granular and can be substituted 1-to-1 in recipes. Both are the color of brown sugar so your cookies may take on a darker color, but the flavor will be amazing. I also use brown rice syrup, but often mixed with coconut or beet sugar.” For the best flavor, Pire-

llo praises 100 percent pure monk fruit, as well as her no-calorie favorite, BochaSweet, which is made from kabocha squash and “tastes and behaves like sugar.”

In addition to coconut sugar, Wells also favors maple syrup and honey, which require an increase in dry ingredients to balance the liquid but add amazing flavor and other beneficial properties, such as naturally occurring minerals and antioxidants.

Common dates, larger and plumper Medjool dates and other dried fruits can replace conventional sugar with rich sweetness, especially for no-bake holiday cookies and bars. Wells likes the versatility of dried fruits when chopped or blended. She recommends soaking them before using in recipes to help improve their texture.

For cookie dough recipes that do not require much liquid, powdered date sugar can be used in place of sugar 1-for-1 while reducing dry ingredients by 25 percent.

Mashed bananas can rock an oatmeal cookie recipe, taking it to another level in terms of flavor without any other added sweeteners.

COMMON SUBSTITUTIONS

• ¾ cup honey or maple syrup for 1 cup of sugar

• 1 cup of blended dates for any amount of sugar in a recipe

• 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce for 1 cup of sugar

• ¾ cup of mashed ripe bananas for 1 cup of sugar

• For vegan cookies that won’t crumble, mix 1 tablespoon of finely ground flax seeds with 3 tablespoons warm water to replace 1 egg.

GLUTEN-FREE DELICIOUS

Gluten-free (GF) baking has come a long way with plenty of GF flour options, but knowing which ones to use can make or break a holiday baking spree. “It has never been easier to make gluten-free cookies that taste almost identical to their gluten-based inspirations,” says Wells. “There are even organic, measure-for-measure flours that let you bake the original recipes as written.”

Pirello sees more of a learning curve. “It’s such a challenge to make a good gluten-free cookie, but with products like almond flour out there, you can do it,” she says. “Use a gluten-free flour mix—not a cake or cookie mix—and mix it with 75 percent almond flour to create a moist yummy cookie. They will always be fragile unless you use eggs, but it works for me without them.”

THE SECRET INGREDIENTS

In the end, baking is all about having fun. “They’re cookies, not world peace, although I think more cookies could bring about world peace,” Pirello quips, suggesting what we all know: love is the secret ingredient in any holiday cookie recipe.

Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.

more years of serving you! Join us in celebrating this milestone!

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Rev. Theresa Fieberts

THUMBPRINT COOKIES WITH JAM YIELD: 36 TO 48 COOKIES

5 Tbsp vegan butter substitute

¼ cup coconut sugar

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

½ cup sprouted whole wheat flour or whole wheat

pastry flour

1 cup fine almond flour

2 Tbsp arrowroot

½ tsp baking soda

Pinch of sea salt

Strawberry or other fruit-sweetened preserves

Preheat oven to 350° F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Place all the ingredients, except the preserves, in a stand mixer and mix until a stiff dough forms.

Form the dough into walnut-size balls and arrange on the baking sheet, allowing about an inch between each cookie for rising. With a wet thumb, make an indentation

in each cookie. Using a small spoon, fill the indentation in each cookie with preserves. Bake for 13 to 14 minutes. Remove cookies from the oven and allow to cool completely before transferring to a container.

Recipe courtesy of Christina Pirello.

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Click Local

How Online Shopping Boosts Neighborhood Businesses

by Megy Karydes

When Chicago resident Debbie Carlson wants to buy a book, she goes online. Instead of Amazon, she places her orders through Bookshop.org because her local bookstore benefits from the purchase while she enjoys the extra convenience. Carlson is not alone, as consumers increasingly look for ways to bolster their neighborhood economy.

“I want to have a thriving retail and local community, and I want to support businesses here,” she says. “If I can’t get to the physical store, I want to be able to go to their website and see what they have.” Although she lives within walking distance of independent shops, food markets and hardware stores, as a full-time professional, she appreciates the convenience of online shopping. Once Carlson finds a store she likes, she’ll sign up to receive updates via email. When something catches her eye, she has no problem picking up the phone and speaking with the proprietor to clarify any questions. “I know they’ll get back to me right away and give me the information I want,” she explains.

BUILDING A RETAIL COMMUNITY

“We have become friends with so many of our customers,” says Bonnie Schulz, owner of Bonnie’s Chic Boutique, in Grayslake, Il-

linois, which features apparel, accessories and home goods, and celebrated 10 years in business this fall. While an active customer base shops in person, she understands that it isn’t easy for everyone to regularly come in to see what’s new. To stay connected with her clientele, she greets them on Facebook Live every Wednesday, walking around the shop and pointing out the latest arrivals.

“Every single time I do a What’s New Wednesday, we have people calling to set aside an outfit or coming in to buy something,” Schulz says, noting that her customers are not always local to the area. Some of her regulars keep tuning in even though they have moved away. It’s easy for them to place an order on the phone or have a neighbor or family member pick it up to ship to them.

Schulz has spent years nurturing her relationship with her customers, and they trust her opinion as they would a friend’s. She has become a trusted personal shopper, and once she gets to know them, she can steer them in the right direction even if they’re not in the store.

HIGH TECH MEETS HIGH TOUCH

Part of the reason online shopping has become so popular is it can be done with a click of a button, and there is hardly anything that cannot be found online. According to a Pew Research Center survey, whether ordering household items or the latest fashions, the internet has reshaped how, when and where we make purchases. Smartphones have made it so convenient that about one in three Americans shop online with their phone at least weekly.

Companies like Locally.com are making it easier for customers to find items close by, even if they want to shop online. Their omnichannel business strategy provides a seamless shopping experience across all channels, including in-store, mobile and online. If a shopper is looking for a local retailer to buy their next pair of running shoes, for example, they can input their location and the product on Locally’s website or app, which will identify which nearby retailers have that item in stock. The shopper can then choose to order it online or go to the store to make their purchase.

While Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok dominate online sales, 87 percent of brands report that their email marketing campaigns are just as critical to their business success, according to Litmus, an email marketing platform. It takes time for independent retailers to keep websites updated, and sending emails is time-consuming, but independent retailers understand that shoppers appreciate the convenience of shopping online while supporting the local community. “You have only so much money to spend,” Carlson says. “I want to make sure that I’m spending it in a way that I think my dollar will have an impact, not just financially, but socially, as well.”

Megy Karydes is a Chicago-based writer and author of 50 Ways to More Calm, Less Stress.

Caring for Anxious Pets While We’re Away

How To Choose the Right Kennel or Pet Sitter

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

All pets, including cats and dogs, can feel distress when their routine or environment changes. Long-term stress can weaken their immune system, leading to behavioral problems or illness. It is essential to find ways to reduce anxiety when leaving a pet with a kennel or sitter.

STRESS DURING OWNER ABSENCE

A report by the animal health company Zoetis, the Federation of European Companion Animal Veterinary Associations and the Human Animal Bond Research Institute shows that the bond between pets and their owners provides both physical and mental benefits. When this bond is interrupted, even temporarily, pets may become anxious. Staying in a kennel or with an unfamiliar pet sitter can cause feelings of insecurity and stress, which can negatively impact their mental health.

Their anxiety may manifest through destructive behaviors, excessive barking or meowing, or aggression. Changes in appetite, pacing and excessive grooming are also common indicators of tension. Pets that are particularly attached to their owners may experience heightened levels of the stress hormone cortisol in their absence, making them more susceptible to anxiety in new environments.

Repeated exposure to stressful separations can result in chronic anxiety, which may damage the bond between pets and their owners, creating lasting behavioral issues that make it difficult for pets to reconnect when their owners return.

PRIORITIES FOR ANXIOUS PETS

Beth Hrnciar, a holistic pet health coach and trainer in Connecticut, emphasizes the importance of considering a pet’s anxiety level when setting care priorities. For pets with mild anxiety, she recommends ensuring the pet sitter is able to provide over-the-counter anxiety relief supplements. “It is also crucial that the kennel or sitter knows how to use calming products, such as a Thundershirt or a calming collar,” Hrnciar advises. For more severe anxiety, she recommends trial runs to help the pet acclimate and become familiar with the staff.

Hrnciar also recommends choosing facilities that offer a safe space for pets that are anxious about fireworks or storms, opting for kennels or sitters with secure enclosures and amenities like white noise machines or calming soundtracks.

EXPERIENCE, CLEANLINESS AND ROUTINE

“Anxious pets need experienced caregivers,” Hrnciar asserts. “While some anxiety is normal and may decrease as a pet adjusts to a new environment or routine, it is crucial to have someone who can provide a quiet space for them to relax.” Someone without the right experience may not fully understand how frightened an animal is and how they might injure themselves while trying to escape from a stressful situation. Cleanliness is critical, Hrnciar notes, particularly for pets that self-soothe by chewing. A clean environment prevents infections from unsanitary conditions.

“Dogs thrive on structure,” she says. “Regular feeding and walking schedules help reduce stress in nervous dogs.” Caregivers should maintain the routine established during trial visits, allowing pets to feel more secure by knowing what to expect.

“Cats are creatures of habit,” Hrnciar explains. It is important to keep anxious cats in familiar environments—maintaining their regular routine is key. Pet sitters should avoid introducing new scents or sounds, and, if possible, visit beforehand to build trust with the pet.

QUESTIONS FOR POTENTIAL PET SITTERS

“Knowing who will be handling your pet and their qualifications is essential for ensuring the pet’s safety and comfort,” says Hrnciar. To find the right sitter for an anxious pet, ask about their experience with similar animals. For pets that are wary of strangers, it is important to ensure the sitter understands how to give them space to adjust. Ask kennels about group play, temperament testing, dietary accommodations and emergency protocols.

HOLISTIC STRATEGIES

“Socialization should be tailored to each pet. Introduce anxious animals to new settings at their own pace,” Hrnciar advises. For pets that are accustomed to being around other animals, group play can offer comfort and help ease their nerves.

Hrnciar highlights the benefits of calming scents, such as essential oils and pheromone sprays, for reducing stress. Pairing these with calming music or therapeutic tools like pulsed electromagnetic field pads or light therapy can create a soothing environment for anxious pets. For severe anxiety, Hrnciar recommends natural remedies over pharmaceuticals. “Properly sourced CBD [cannabidiol], calming mushrooms and essential oils can offer significant relief with minimal side effects,” she advises. She also encourages exploring zoopharmacognosy—a method where animals self-select herbs, flowers and other natural remedies to restore balance to their systems. This approach allows pets to tap into their natural instincts, potentially finding relief in a more intuitive way.

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.

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Something To Smile About

A Look at Non-Toxic Dental Products

by Zak Logan

With a plethora of products on the shelves promising snow-white smiles and stronger teeth, it is tricky deciding which ones are reliable and the least toxic. For example, antimicrobial mouthwashes, especially those with chlorhexidine, have prompted scientific investigation into possible correlations between their use and cardiovascular disease, oral cancer and other conditions. While there is no conclusive evidence that popular mouth rinses are helpful or harmful, it is something to consider when it comes to dental hygiene regimens.

“It’s an exciting time for natural dental care, and these trends are paving the way for healthier, more conscious oral care routines,” says Trina Felber, a cleanbeauty coach and founder of Primal Life Organics. With cutting-edge alternatives like nano-hydroxyapatite replacing controversial fluoride, cleansing agents designed to promote beneficial bacteria, and LED light therapy for gum health and tooth whitening, mouth-care has a bright future.

REMINERALIZING TEETH WITHOUT RISKS

Pharmaceutical-grade fluoride, an ionized form of fluorine, has long been touted as a cavity preventative, counteracting acidic conditions in the mouth and remineralizing the teeth. Concerns, including cognitive deficits in children due to exposure to high levels of fluoride, may be enough to rethink its presence in oral care products and dental applications, especially in areas where sodium fluoride, a chemical byproduct of aluminum, steel and cement manufacturing, is added to drinking water.

“Hydroxyapatite toothpastes are gaining a lot of attention these days as people search for effective alternatives to fluoride to help strengthen and remineralize their teeth,” says naturopathic physician Shawn Manske, assistant director of clinical education at Biocidin Botanicals. “What makes hydroxyapatite so promising is that it is naturally nontoxic and bioactive. Your teeth are made of the same minerals that comprise hydroxyapatite, which your body readily recognizes and uses to repair thinning or damaged tooth enamel. Nano-hydroxyapatite [in toothpaste], because of its much smaller particle size, can penetrate deep within the tooth, helping to remineralize from within.”

Felber highlights the gaining popularity of nano-hydroxyapatite, as well as other enamel-supportive ingredients such as bentonite, kaolin and French green clays, “which naturally protect enamel without the potential downsides of fluoride,” although no studies have confirmed the

clays’ ability to remineralize teeth.

Manske points out that nano-hydroxyapatite products on the market today, including toothpastes, are made using a synthetically produced ingredient “because there is currently no natural nanohydroxyapatite on Earth. However, the synthetic nano-hydroxyapatite is considered biocompatible with the hydroxyapatite naturally found in teeth—meaning not harmful to living tissue—and research demonstrates its effectiveness.”

NATURAL WHITENERS AND THE ORAL ECOSYSTEM

We all want whiter teeth, but popular overthe-counter whiteners are gaining attention as enamel compromisers. A 2019 assessment conducted by the Danish Environmental Protection Agency and research published in British Dental Journal show that the common ingredients sodium chlorite and citric acid in whitening trays, pens and strips might lead to the destruction of enamel and hardness in the teeth. The Danish assessment also warned against the use of whitening products containing more than 0.1 percent hydrogen peroxide.

“LED light teeth-whitening systems are gaining traction, including toothbrushes with built-in LED light technology. These systems use blue LED light combined with a natural whitening gel to break down stains without the harsh chemicals that can weaken enamel or cause sensitivity,” explains Felber, adding that LED light therapy is a powerful tool for healthier gums, too. “Red light therapy helps to reduce inflammation, promote tissue healing and stimulate collagen production in the gums, while blue light targets harmful bacteria that cause gum disease, all without disrupting the oral microbiome.”

A healthy oral microbiome plays a vital role in producing nitric oxide, a molecule essential for maintaining cardiovascular health, improving blood flow and supporting immune function. Felber underscores the importance of using natural dental-care products to support this del-

Manske notes, “Many commonly used mouthwashes can harm your oral microbiome, upsetting the balance of beneficial bacteria in your mouth. Essentially, what these mouthwashes do is wipe out the good bugs with the bad. This creates a state of dysbiosis, which can lead to oral health concerns later.”

Some toothpaste (including the toothpaste tube) and toothbrushes may contain ingredients that disrupt human hormones, such as triclosan (an antibacterial), parabens (a group of preservatives), phthalates (chem icals that make plastic flexible), sodium lauryl sulfate (chemicals that produce a foaming action) and artificial sweeten ers. As a result, more companies are go ing green by producing toothpaste tablets that come in glass or paper packaging and bamboo toothbrushes. “These biodegrad able toothbrushes reduce plastic waste and are a great option for anyone looking to make their oral care routine more sustain able,” says Felber.

Zak Logan is a freelance health writer dedicat ed to holistic living and getting back to basics.

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Practicing Sensory Skills at Home

How To Help Kids Explore the Senses

by Christina Connors

From birth, children are naturally curious, letting their senses lead the way as they discover the world around them. Through sight, hearing, smell, taste and touch, they learn to navigate their environment and recognize their place in it. Although the five senses are innate skills, kids need to practice, understand and integrate these sensations as they mature, so that they can anticipate the dangers, enjoy the thrills, develop their thinking and cope with new emotions.

Sensory skill-building teaches children how to explore their surroundings with confidence. Exercises and games that develop the senses can make the learning experience fun for kids, while also allowing parents and instructors to guide the process and marvel at their children’s discoveries.

SIGHT

Eye Spy: This game involves one player that chooses a secret object and provides a clue so that the other players can guess what it is. The clue is introduced with the phrase, “I spy with my little eye.” Players take turns guessing until the object is identified. Through laughs and giggles, participating children are invited to notice individual items around the room or at the park, sparking curiosity and developing cognitive skills.

Color of the Week: Each week, the family agrees to look for items that are a certain color.

The game may inspire discussions about the different shades and tones of the chosen color, as well as how this hue makes them feel. It supports communication skills at home, which helps kids feel safe, seen and valued.

SMELL

Scent Search: Using a diffuser with children is a great way to help them distinguish unique scents such as sweet, floral or spicy. The conversation can then expand to explore how different aromas make them feel, and to help children identify their likes and dislikes.

Grow a Garden: A family garden filled with flowers and herbs provides unique sensory experiences for children, including new scents, sights and textures. For those living in cities, potted flowers and herbs around the home will have a similar effect.

TASTE

Fabulous Fruit: Encourage children to try different fruits. From tangy grapefruit to sweet-smelling strawberries or mushy bananas—there are so many flavors, aromas and textures to explore as kids learn to appreciate the present moment. This can also become a wonderful opportunity to talk about how a fruit develops from a tiny seed.

Dinnertime Delights: Have a pizza or pasta buffet where everyone gets to choose their topping. This encourages children to try new ingredients and talk about the different flavors they encounter.

HEARING

Walk and Listen: While strolling in nature or in town, stop every five minutes and ask everyone to listen quietly to the different sounds. After 30 seconds, start walking again and take turns describing in detail what each person heard and guessing what could have made the sound. Walking, especially in nature, soothes the nervous system and fosters deep family connections.

Bedtime Singalong: “I always tell my parents to sing to their kids at bedtime,” says Crae Akerson, a Connecticut-based occupational therapist specializing in sensory strategies. “It is one of the most powerful ways to use sound for deep connection and feelings of safety.”

TOUCH

Sensory Bins: “Fill different bins with kidney beans, split peas or rice. Hide little objects or toys in them and have your kids reach in the bins to find them,” recommends Akerson. Without removing the item from the bin, ask the child to describe the object with as many details as possible.

Testing Textiles: At bedtime, bring patches of different fabrics like cotton, wool, flannel, sheep skin, burlap or silk, and entice a child to touch and describe the feel of each textile. In addition to learning about the sense of touch, they may also pick up a few vocabulary words.

INTEROCEPTION

According to Brad Chapin, a child psychologist, author and director of clinical services at Stormont-Vail Health, in Topeka, Kansas, there is a sixth sense. “Interoception is the ability to sense and interpret internal signals from the body such as heart rate, hunger and internal warning signs when feeling dysregulated,” he explains. “This is important, especially now, because there is so much noise and overstimulation in our world. It can be easy to lose our ability to tap into the internal world of ourselves, which is necessary in helping us regulate our emotions throughout the day.”

Labeling Body Cues: To help children make the connection between their bodies and their emotions, it is helpful for adults to model the relationship. For example, Chapin suggests saying to a child, “My face feels warm when the sun shines on it,” or “I can tell I am feeling nervous because I feel my heart beating faster, and I feel cold.” Encourage children to share their emotions and how their body feels at that time.

Exploring Facial Expressions: “While watching TV, ask your kids, ‘What do you think that character is feeling like right now? Sad? Happy?’” Chapin recommends. By learning how to see the emotional world inside others, kids begin to develop empathy.

Christina Connors is a writer, singer and creator of a YouTube series for children. Learn more at ChristinasCottage444.com.

Calendar of Events

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1

Pixie Dust Nervous System Reset Sound Healing - 9-11am. A sacred sound circle to assist you and your nervous system. We will have a tea ceremony, breathwork, movement, meditation and a sound bath. Give your nervous system the reset it deserves. This is a 2-hour session. Pixie Dust, 1476 Main St., Sarasota, 941-366-6325, PixieDustSRQ.com.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 2

New Moon Sound Healing Class - 7-8pm. Join Sabrina Sawall at Unwind SRQ for a series of new moon sound healing classes this winter. A new moon sound healing class is the perfect way to gift yourself a moment of pause, tune into your heart, and nourish your spirit. It is my intention to create each sound healing class that is more magical than ever. These sound healing classes are so special because each class draws upon the energy of the new moon and provides you the opportunity to ground into mother nature’s rhythm. $33/class, early bird price and to register: TheArtofHealingWithSabrina.com. Unwind SRQ, 630 S. Orange Ave., Ste 103, Sarasota.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3

Reiki III Certification with Sana Sana Studio at Wild Ginger Apothecary - 12pm. Are you excited to become a Reiki Master? By now you have been working with Reiki energy in your personal life and perhaps in your business as well. You have already experienced the incredible energy of Reiki in Level 1 plus learned sacred symbols in Reiki Level 2 (required before this class). The Master class is your final certification and is designed to teach you how to

Tune-in to your hair’s power. It’s subtle, energetic frequency.

share your knowledge with others. Led by Sana Sana Studio. Pre-registration required, $200. Wild Ginger Apothecary, 6557 Superior Ave., Sarasota, 941-3125630, WildGingerApothecary.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4

Free Class with Dr. Carol Roberts - Topic: “End of Year Review” - 2-4pm. Dr. Carol Roberts from Best Medicine Inc. will be completing a series of free classes, comprising a course in the normal functioning of the human body and some of the ways it can go wrong. Class will be held at the Unity of Sarasota as well as streamed live via Facebook and Zoom. Registration is encouraged as seating is limited. Call 941-404-8030 for more information. Website:  BestMedicine.us.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6

“Sip, Savor & Serenity” - Wine Tasting Day Retreat for Women - 10am-4pm. Escape to Paradise and join us for this women-only Day Retreat at Heartwood! Experience an exclusive wine-tasting event led by professional experts and rejuvenate before the holidays. This day retreat features wine tasting, dedicated time to unwind and reconnect with yourself before the busy holiday season and we’ll end our day with a wonderful guided meditation designed for relaxation. Indulge in a day of serenity, tranquility, and relaxation alongside other wonderful women. The day retreat includes all the necessary supplies, lunch and the exclusive wine tasting event. Dress for comfort. Just $95. Limited spaces are available. Call 941-745-5719 to sign up or visit HealingHerWorkshops.com.

Floating Crystal Bowl Concert with Robert Austin - 6:30-7:30pm. While suspended in an Aerial Hammock, you will restore the harmony between the physical and spiritual planes. At the same time,

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crystal and Tibetan bowls sing, clearing and aligning the body. Crystal Bowl healing energy through harmonic vibrations resonating from the bowls balances the chakras and re-energizes the auric field. The powerful vibrations can release negative energies and can heal your body.  The sound penetrates the body which consists of approximately 70% water and gives a gentle internal massage to all your cells. Let the high vibration of the bowls integrate and heal your body, releasing tensions, eliminating pain, and healing your soul. $30/pp in hammock/ or mat, $55/VIP experience (under double pyramid). Must pre-register. Palm Studio and Boutique, 441 W. Dearborn St., Englewood, 941-208-5568, PalmStudioEnglewood.com.

Cosmic Center Keys of Enoch Lecture – Awakening to Our Divine Nature with Drs. J.J. and Desiree Hurtak and Alan Steinfeld - 7-9:30pm. This talk will focus on how we can experience a greater multidimensional reality and how we can begin to cross the barriers of time and space. This helps us understand that there is no real separation between our dimension and higher dimensions. Knowing this allows us to also grasp events past, present and especially about our future. During this event, there will also be a guided meditation that leads us into the understanding of greater realities and the existence of a creative Consciousness Force of which we are a part. In a real and practical sense, if we begin to share a greater love, we attract that which is more loving. $20/suggested donation ATD (no one turned away regardless of their contribution amount). For more info. or to register go to AwakeningtoOurDivineNature.splashthat.com/. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7

Cosmic Center Keys of Enoch Workshop – Christ

Erinn Earth, Owner/Operator

Licensed Cosmetologist, BA Psychology, Author, Natural Health Advisor Kevin Murphy, Current and RPM

Consciousness and our Path to Ascension with Drs. JJ and Desiree Hurtak and Alan Steinfeld - 1-6pm. This will be an in-depth talk on the spiritual teachings of The Keys of Enoch ® and the additional Light Picture Superscripts which focus on a greater cosmology of the heavens, the angelic realms and the greater Christ Consciousness. With this we can also gain an understanding of how to find answers about ourselves and also what is going on in the world with both the environmental and economic changes. Please join with us to share in the vibrations of these sacred teachings and hear about the wisdom of The Keys of Enoch® which reveals how and why our human evolution is connected to the realms of greater Cosmic Creations. During this event, there will also be a guided meditation that leads us into the understanding of other dimensional realities. $50.For more info. or to register go to AwakeningtoOurDivineNature.splashthat.com/. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram.

Mind, Body, Spirit Market - 1-4pm. Come join us at our Mind, Body, Spirit Market. This market is designed to help like-minded small businesses showcase themselves in a market setting. We will have 8 vendors that offer different services or products. Free to attend. We are still taking vendors. Pixie Dust, 1476 Main St., Sarasota, 941-366-6325, PixieDustSRQ.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8

Pixie Dust Chakra Quest for Kids with Anna - 11am12pm. Welcome to Chakra Quest for Kids, an exciting and nurturing program designed to introduce children to the fascinating world of chakras. Our classes are a blend of fun, interactive activities, balance, and inner peace. $20. Pixie Dust, 1476 Main St., Sarasota, 941-366-6325, PixieDustSRQ.com.

Cosmic Center Keys of Enoch Workshops Remote Viewing: A Learning Session and Q&A and Meditation for Universal Oneness with Drs. JJ and Desiree Hurtak and Alan Steinfeld - 1-6pm. In a very real and practical sense we are spiritual influencers. When we change our thoughts, we transform the reality around us. This team of teachers will introduce their understanding of the non-local mind-based experiments called “Remote Viewing.” After an overview of the topic, the workshop will allow each participant to share in live demonstrations, and have the practical experience of going beyond the limitations of their 5 senses. The intention for this talk is to become a gateway to remote viewing, remote healing and remote influencing to generate a deeper understanding of our own nonlocality within the global consciousness field. Also included is a Q&A from the audience and a guided global meditation for Universal Oneness. $50. For more info.or to register go to AwakeningtoOurDivineNature.splashthat.com/. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL. com, Facebook and Instagram.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10

Cosmic Center The Remembrance Tree - Special Prayers for Loved Ones on the Other Side of the Veil - Dec. 10-24. Join in on the Remembrance Tree – names of God/names of power prayers for your loved ones on the other side of the veil. For a loving donation you can just write the name of your loved ones on a white ribbon and tie it to the Remembrance Tree. Their names will be called out loud at the Candlelight Christmas Eve Service and using the Names of God/Names of Power, powerful prayers sent to our loved ones on the other side of the Veil. Together we will hold the Christ Light throughout time and space. $10./minimum suggested donation per name.Non-locals can request a ribbon for their loved ones by emailing their request to CosmicCen-

terOSL@gmail.com. The Candlelight Christmas Eve Service will be available in person and online. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram. Free Event! Selby Library - 2-3:15pm. “Remarkable Perceptions of the Afterlife” (non-religious). Credible interviews shown on a large screen. Int. Assoc. for Near-Death Studies. (IANDS) since 1978. Over 100 branches worldwide. Q&A with Bob Waxman, Ph.D. Only 40 seats available, no reservations, 2 hr. free parking, 941-724-5151, Iands.org.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14

Grief Cafe - Learning to Intentionally Process and Navigate Grief at Wild Ginger Apothecary - 3pm. Join the Sarasota area End-of-Life Doula Collective for a donation-based workshop designed to provide a safe space for exploring and processing grief. Through grief education, mindfulness practices like yoga and meditation, and opportunities to share or simply listen, this workshop offers tools to move through grief and find peace. Facilitated by certified End-of-Life Doulas Erin Hraster, Lauren Hearn, and Sally Gabriel, each session encourages healing with compassion and support. Dress comfortably, bring a journal, water, and anything that soothes you, and take a step toward embracing grief with ease and grace. Wild Ginger Apothecary, 6557 Superior Ave., Sarasota, 941-312-5630, WildGingerApothecary.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15

Full Moon Cacao Ceremony with Crystal Bowls with Robert Austin - 6-7:30pm. Join us in soaking in the energies of the Full Moon with a Cacao Ceremony, followed by a guided meditation with crystal bowls. Cacao is ceremonial chocolate that expands the blood vessels and improves circulation. The healing vibrations from the crystal bowls stimulate and restore harmony between the physical and spiritual planes of the body, balancing and re-energizing the chakras. $25/pp. Must pre-register. Palm Studio and Boutique, 441 W. Dearborn St., Englewood, 941-2085568, PalmStudioEnglewood.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19

Free “Women’s Circle of Compassion & Love – Exploring our Thoughts & Emotions” - 4pm. Join us for a nurturing session in a judgment-free space where we dive into exploring our thoughts and emotions. This Women’s Circle is offered free of charge, providing a safe and convenient way to connect with like-minded women from the comfort of your own home. Bring your curiosity and an open heart as we embark on a journey of self-discovery and compassion together. Experience Self-growth and healing through shared experiences. Find a comfortable place to sit, bring pen & paper or your journal, and your favorite beverage. Sign up for the Free Zoom link at HealingHerWorkshops.com or call 941-830-3040.

FRIDAY, DECMEBR 20

Winter Solstice Awakening Activation with Akasha at Wild Ginger Apothecary - 7-8:30pm. Round out 2024 with ease, grace, and a group energetic download called in by Akasha Jen Smith. Awakening Activations are Divinely channeled group transmissions in alignment with The Highest Good, held in a sacred space with a crystal healing grid at the center, Galactic, Angelic, Elemental, Ancestral and Deific Energies come through to support us. We begin with connection exercises based on the topic for the month and then transition into the Activation. The Transmissions include Light Language (Movement and Sound), Energy, Sound and Sacred Geometry Healing, Meditation, Light Code Activations and Messages. In addition to being healing,

each Activation can awaken and attract specific things for each person present. We are all Energy first so getting this aspect of your being cleared and upgraded regularly can create Amazing Outcomes for you Mentally, Emotionally, Spiritually and Physically. Please bring water and a journal. Pre-registration required, $25. Wild Ginger Apothecary, 6557 Superior Ave., Sarasota, 941-312-5630, WildGingerApothecary.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21

10 Years of Magic Anniversary Party at Wild Ginger Apothecary! - 10am. Join Wild Ginger and other local wellness practitioners in celebrating the best part of being a local metaphysical store - our community. Swing in for a complimentary cup of tea, to catch up with friends, and do some last-minute holiday shopping. Sales on merchandise, discounted mini-intuitive readings, freebies, and more. Wild Ginger Apothecary, 6557 Superior Ave., Sarasota, 941312-5630, WildGingerApothecary.com.

Somatic Yoga Pop-Up at Wild Ginger Apothecary - 10:30-11:30am. Join Jess Batson RYT500, for a slow yoga flow that will tap into your physical, energetic, and mental layers to uncover, connect, heal, and restore your being. This class is for all levels who want to gain a deeper sense of self and make connections with their body, emotions, and mind. Please bring a yoga mat, a shawl/sweater/blanket, water, a journal, and an open heart. $20, pre-registration required. Wild Ginger Apothecary, 6557 Superior Ave., Sarasota, 941-312-5630, WildGingerApothecary.com.

Pixie Dust Candle Making with Ky - 6-7pm. Unleash your creativity with our Candle Making class at Pixie Dust SRQ. Learn the art of candle making and create a candle that is uniquely yours or make one similar to our in-house candles. Our class is perfect for beginners or anyone looking to improve their candle making skills. We provide all the necessary materials and guidance for an unforgettable handson experience. Book now and let your imagination run wild. $25. Pixie Dust, 1476 Main St., Sarasota, 941366-6325, PixieDustSRQ.com.

Solstice Celebration - Cacao Ceremony with Crystal Bowls - 6-7:30pm. Join us in a Winter Solstice Cacao Ceremony as we align with the shift in seasons. The solstice is a time to let go of what has been, turn your energy inward, and focus on the transformations that are taking place. Winter is a time for internal reflection and contraction to prepare for the expansion of spring. Cacao is ceremonial chocolate that expands the blood vessels and improves circulation. The healing vibrations from the crystal bowls stimulate and restore harmony between the physical and spiritual planes of the body, balancing and re-energizing the chakras. $30/pp. Must pre-register. Palm Studio and Boutique, 441 W. Dearborn St., Englewood, 941-208-5568, PalmStudioEnglewood.com.

Cosmic Center Winter Solstice - A Call to Light Workers – Anchoring the Christed Timeline7-8:30pm. There are only a few days that have true planetary significance when the earth, moon and sun are in unique positions relative to each other. These four special days are known as the Celestial Cross, the special alignments of our planet’s equinoxes and solstices. Cultures from all over the world revered these cosmic days of great power has the ability to impact weather patterns and all life on Earth. In addition to receiving restorative and balancing energies in our own lives, we can also harness the power of this special Cosmic Alignment as powerful co-creators. A urgent call to Lightworkers. Let us take this opportunity to continue to anchor the vison of peace for ourselves, our families our Earth and all her life as we end one year and co-create a new year of all possibilities. Love donation. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows,

Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24

Cosmic Center Christmas Eve Candlelight Service & Remembrance Tree Blessings for Departed Ones - 7-8:30pm. Come celebrate and share your light Christmas/Hannukah/Kwanza/ Yule Season of Light with several of the Cosmic Center Ministers. A very special time on our planet where the higher heavenly light is strong upon our world. With the Remembrance Tree present at this special service, you can put a white ribbon on the tree with the your name of your loved ones on the other side of the Veil that you would want special potent prayers for. The Names of God/ Names of Power will be called for each name as we all together hold the Cosmic Christ Light upon our world and beyond time and space. For those on Zoom, you can request the names via email: CosmicCenterOSL@gmail.com and donate at CCOSL.com/donate. Giving Tree love donation is $10/per name. We will end by singing together popular Christmas Carols from our Christmas Song Book. Come join us for this Special Holy Experience. Love Donation. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram.

Unity of Sarasota - Candlelight Service - 7pm. 3023 Proctor Rd., Sarasota, UnityofSarasota.org Facebook @ UnityofSarasotaSpiritualCenter and Instagram.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 29

Unity of Sarasota - Burning Bowl - 10:30am, during Sunday Service. 3023 Proctor Rd., Sarasota, UnityofSarasota.org Facebook @ UnityofSarasotaSpiritualCenter and Instagram.

Center for Spiritual Living Cultural Coast Living Year-End Burning Bowl Ceremony: Reset & Ignite - 11am-12:30pm. Join us for our annual ritual of releasing the old and welcoming the new. Beautifully set on the patio of the Sarasota Garden Club, participants are invited to unleash the past and through a meditative process of Visioning, discover and welcome what wants to come forth through you this new year. Love Offering. Center for Spiritual Living Cultural Coast Living, 1131 Blvd. of the Arts, Sarasota, CslCulturalCoast.org.

PLAN AHEAD 2025

SUNDAY, JANUARY 5

Unity of Sarasota - White Stone Ceremony10:30am during Sunday Service. 3023 Proctor Rd., Sarasota, UnityofSarasota.org Facebook @ UnityofSarasotaSpiritualCenter and Instagram.

MONDAY, JANUARY 6

New Moon Sound Healing Class - 7-8pm. Join Sabrina Sawall at Unwind SRQ for a series of new moon sound healing classes this winter. A new moon sound healing class is the perfect way to gift yourself a moment of pause, tune into your heart, and nourish your spirit. It is my intention to create each sound healing class that is more magical than ever. These sound healing classes are so special because each class draws upon the energy of the new moon and provides you the opportunity to ground into mother nature’s rhythm. $33/class, early bird price and to register: TheArtofHealingWithSabrina.com. Unwind SRQ, 630 S. Orange Ave., Ste 103, Sarasota.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2025

The Om Shoppe Cacao Ceremony & Sound Bath - 1-3pm. Find your emotional resonance with Carrie

Eckert and OM Shoppe Sound Scape. Join us for a transformative afternoon of new year renewal with Carrie Eckert and The OM Shoppe sound scape facilitators. This unique Cacao Ceremony and Sound Bath is designed to help you awaken new beginnings, align with fresh choices, and set powerful intentions. Through the properties of cacao and the soothing, vibrational healing of sound, you will be guided to release old patterns and embrace the potential for positive change. Reserve your space now. $88. The Om Shoppe, 4801 S. Tamiami Tr #5, Sarasota, 941-706-3257, TheOMShoppe.com or TheOMShoppeandSpa.com.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 3

New Moon Sound Healing Class - 7-8pm. Join Sabrina Sawall at Unwind SRQ for a series of new moon sound healing classes this winter. A new moon sound healing class is the perfect way to gift yourself a moment of pause, tune into your heart, and nourish your spirit. It is my intention to create each sound healing class that is more magical than ever. These sound healing classes are so special because each class draws upon the energy of the new moon and provides you the opportunity to ground into mother nature’s rhythm. $33/class, early bird price and to register: TheArtofHealingWithSabrina.com. Unwind SRQ, 630 S. Orange Ave., Ste 103, Sarasota.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7

The Om Shoppe Akashic Records Reading Workshop - 9am-5pm, Dec, 7, 8. With Janie, Reiki Master-Teacher of TriKona Light Reiki™, Infinite Possibilities and Graduate of London College of Spirituality. Join us to unlock a powerful new resource. The Records help us feel a sense of connection. They are a reminder that we are never alone – and that we are always in the light of the Divine. The class includes pre-training Akashic Attunement (one week before the class to calibrate, align, and integrate the material), training manual, new Akashic Illumination Deck (a “prompt” deck to use with your Records), certificate of completion, pre or post-class session with Janie. $528. The Om Shoppe, 4801 S. Tamiami Tr #5, Sarasota, 941-706-3257, TheOMShoppe.com or TheOMShoppeandSpa.com.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8

The Om Shoppe Sound Healing Academy Certification Level One - Feb. 8-10, Apr. 12-14, Sept. 6-8, Nov. 8-10, 2025. With: Beth A. Snyder, CCHt Therapeutic Sound Practitioner and Clinical Hypnotherapist. A three-day immersive workshop and Sound Healing Academy online course. Blended 3-month curriculum for certification. Foundation for level 2 for diploma. The Om Shoppe, 4801 S. Tamiami Tr #5, Sarasota, 941-706-3257, TheOMShoppe.com or TheOMShoppeandSpa.com.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13

The Om Shoppe Level 2 Diploma: Integral Sound Healing - Feb. 13-17, Sept. 18-22, 2025. 5-day Immersion with Beth A. Snyder, CCHt Therapeutic Sound Practitioner and Clinical Hypnotherapist. Sound Healing Academy diploma program. Blended curriculum 12-month course online and in person. Become a professional Sound Practitioner. The Om Shoppe, 4801 S. Tamiami Tr #5, Sarasota, 941-706-3257, TheOMShoppe.com or TheOMShoppeandSpa.com.

SUNDAY, MARCH 9

The Om Shoppe Crystal Singing Bowl Certification Course - Mar. 9-10, May 4-5, Oct. 18-19. With Beth A. Snyder, CCHt Therapeutic Sound Practitioner and Clinical Hypnotherapist. Experience an introduction to the Science, Art & Alchemy of the Sound Heal-

ing Academy and unique Integral Sound Healing process. Learn foundational skills and techniques for working with Crystal Singing Bowls for sound healing. The Om Shoppe, 4801 S. Tamiami Tr #5, Sarasota, 941-706-3257, TheOMShoppe.com or TheOMShoppeandSpa.com.

SUNDAY, MARCH 30 –

MONDAY, MARCH 31, 2025

The Om Shoppe Tuning Fork Certification Course - Join Sound Healing Academy Instructor Beth A. Snyder, Clinical Hypnotherapist and Sound Practitioner for this 2-day workshop and online learning certification course. This will take you on a foundational skill building into sound healing with Tuning Forks. This is ideal for people at all levels of training, skill and experience. Come unlock the healing power of pure tones with Tuning Forks. The Om Shoppe, 4801 S. Tamiami Tr #5, Sarasota, 941-706-3257, TheOMShoppe.com or TheOMShoppeandSpa.com.

Ongoing Events

Sunday

Unity of Sarasota – Celebration Service - 10:3011:45am. In-person and livestream at UnityofSarasota.org under the services tab. Celebration service includes a contemporary talk and lively music. Youth ministry program. 1st Sunday is Birthday & Anniversary Sunday; 3rd Sunday is Potluck (bring a dish to share)! Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd., Sarasota, 941-955-3301, UnityOfSarasota.org.

Cosmic Center Sunday Sabbath Services10:30am. In person and on Zoom. Join our rotation of reverends every Sunday as we connect with our Family of Light. First Sunday - Open Heart Divine Healing Service with Rev. Sharon-Elizabeth (Baba Sharone) and experience sound healing through the rare and unique 4 Quadrant Pythagorean Lambdona Harmonic Keyboard at 528 Hertz. Through the Divine Names of God and conscious intention we create the Sacred Space to connect to the Healing Power of the Divine. Expect Miracles! Second Sunday - A Channeling of Dimensions of Love with Rev. Nancy Robinson. She will Uplift, Guide, Inspire, Heal and help promote Peace and Harmony in the Heart. Third Sunday - Ecstatic Kabbalah with Rev. Annie Eng anchored in Kabbalah Tree of Life Ceremony and Wisdom. Fourth Sunday – Rev. Robin brings you wisdom teachings from around the world and ages, accompanied with her crystal harp. Fifth Sunday – Rev. Ildigo Varga, experience the spiritual energy of Divine Protection. This service helps you align with the Higher Wisdom and blessing that is available to all of us. Love Donation. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram.

Universal Service - 10:30am. Each Sunday with a rotation of Reverends. This is a weekly egalitarian service which celebrates all of humanity’s religions together on a single altar. It is a place where East meets West, offering opportunities for spiritual growth and sharing. At Rising Tide, 5102 Swift Rd. Sarasota, and on Zoom: https://zoom. us/j/81220 8049 Password: RTI2020. RisingTideInternational.org, for info Rev.  Zan, 941-922-7839.

Center for Spiritual Living Cultural Coast Service11am. December Theme: Be Here Now. Fabulous musicians join Rev. Theresa Fieberts each week:

12/1 Meditative with Sound Harmonics; 12/8 Matthew Frost; 12/15 Emily Frost; 12/22 Joyful Noise; 12/29 Joyful Noise. Center for Spiritual Living Cultural Coast, Sarasota Garden Club, 1131 Blvd of the Arts, Sarasota, CslCulturalCoast.org. Or join us online: Facebook.com/CSLCulturalCoast/ or Youtube.com/@cslculturalcoast/streams.

Sunday Morning Celebration Service, In-Person and Zoom - 11am, in person healing at 10:30 in Flexer Healing Chapel before service. Join us as we come together as a spiritual family and community, sharing our love and light for ourselves, for each other, and the world. Be a part of sharing the energy and illumination of our hearts and souls together through conversation, music, meditation, a talk and an affirmation and messages. Sarasota Center of Light, 852 S Tuttle Ave. 941-953-6620, SarasotaCenterOfLight.com.

Cosmic Center Study Group the Pistis Sophia - The Faith of Wisdom with Kim Converse - 1-4pm, 2nd Sundays. In-person and on Zoom. Join Kim Converse, our Keys of Enoch® facilitator, as we embark on the study of the Pistis Sophia, an ancient Coptic Gnostic text (gnosis means ‘knowledge’) with commentary by Drs. J.J. Hurtak and Desiree Hurtak. The Pistis Sophia “the Faith of Wisdom” is a teaching given to the disciples of Jesus after his resurrection as the Christed Jesus for a period of 11 years not only to his male disciples, but also to his female disciples. $20. per month. “Pistis Sophia” book $50 plus shipping at: KeysofEnoch.org. KimConverse@gmail.com with questions. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram.

City Sightseeing Tour - 1 or 3pm. Other days/ times available. On this classic City Sightseeing Tour, learn where to tour, dine, shop or visit! Get an entertaining overview of Sarasota’s rich history, culture, and neighborhoods. $48.99 plus tax/handling fee. Tours depart from the Discover Sarasota Tours Trolley Cottage Gift Shop, 1826 4th Street, Sarasota, 941-260-9818, DiscoverSarasotaTours.com.

Psychic Sundays Trolley Tour - 1pm. Explore the metaphysical side of Sarasota on these bi-weekly trolley tours led by Deni Dreazen. Include orange/ pineapple mimosas before boarding. $52.99 plus tax/handling fee. Tours depart from the Discover Sarasota Tours Trolley Cottage Gift Shop, 1826 4th Street, Sarasota, 941-260-9818. DiscoverSarasotaTours.com.

The OM Shamanic Sound Journey - 3-4pm, 4th Sun. of each month. Performed by Resonance. One-of-a-kind blend of hypnotic induction & immersive amplified musical composition with 4 sound musicians and over 150 sound healing instruments. Always sells out- reserve now. $85. The Om Shoppe, 4801 S. Tamiami Tr #5, Sarasota, 941706-3257, TheOMShoppe.com or TheOMShoppeandSpa.com.

Discover Sarasota Tours Christmas Carol Trolley Letters to Santa - 5:30 and 7:30, Dec. 1-23. This holiday favorite is a 75-minute family-friendly show filled with downtown lights, caroling down Main St., holiday stories, and heartfelt performances featuring the Trolley Troubadours, our singing ensemble of professional performers. $29.99/kids 2+ pp and $53.99/pp adults. Includes free soft drinks for kids and beer/wine for the adults before boarding. Tour tickets and info. at DiscoverSarasotaTours.com or 941-260-9818. Discover Sarasota Tours, 1826 4th Street, Sarasota.

Monday

“Health & Nutrition”  - 10-11am. With Fred Harvey, MD of The Harvey Center for Integrative Medicine. Health & nutrition is a live call-in or email Ask the Doc health show from 10-11 on WMNF 88.5FM public radio Tampa. Email questions to DJ@ WMNF.org

Resident Medium, Pranic Healer and Spiritual Counselor at The Cosmic Center - 1-5pm. Rev Nancy Lee Robinson is available by appt only at The Cosmic Center for Spiritual Counseling, through medium/intuitive readings, pranic healing, aura & chakra clearing, inner child healing, past life regression and restorative release (emotional release). These sessions guide you on your spiritual path, releases energetic, mental, emotional, physical and spiritual blocks that keep you from moving forward and raising your vibration to higher levels. Other times available by appt only – call/ text 941-313-0418 or at RevNancyLee52@gmail. com. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram.

The Om Shoppe Crystal Singing Bowls for Personal Wellness - 3-5pm, check website for dates. With Zooey Seraphine, musical director. Start with Introduction Course and advance to OM Community Singing Bowl Circles to master the art of crystalline sound medicine for your personal wellness. The Om Shoppe, 4801 S. Tamiami Tr #5, Sarasota, 941-706-3257, TheOMShoppe.com or TheOMShoppeandSpa.com.

Feldenkrais with Bonnie K - 5:45pm, until Dec 18. Online! Awareness Through Movement classes: Lessons (in chairs/on floor) are designed to quiet non-working habitual patterns, invite you into a process for learning and offer experiences for more efficient movement. Ongoing classesmovement lessons w/replays. More info, 941-3602248. FeldenkraisInSarasota.com. Register with Bonnie at: FeldenkraisinSarasota.com/Sarasota-Classes-Feldenkrais/

Monday Night Meditation - 6pm. All are welcome to come and explore with us a variety of meditation practices as we allow spirit to guide us. Come gather connect and breath as we open to the possibilities. Arrive early, doors close at 6pm to honor our sacred space, Love donations welcomed. Spirit Speaks, 411 W. Dearborn St., Englewood, 734-464-6828.

Cosmic Center Anchoring Light Transmission Meditation - 6:45pm. With Baba Sharone. A call to all Lightworkers. The Anchoring Light Transmission Channeled Meditation has been a gathering point for Lightworkers and Planetary World Servers to come together and assist in the ascension of our planet and all her life in cooperation with our expanded family of light. As Anchors of Light, we take our important role in the spiritual hierarchy to manifest the divine plan of love, light, peace and oneness to our planet. Participants who serve in anchoring this Celestial Radiant Light Energy from the ascended realms benefit from the wisdom, guidance and grace that flows from it which brings forth healing, peace and accelerated spiritual growth. In person and online. Love offering. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram.

Tuesday

Intuitive Flow Yoga at Wild Ginger Apothecary10am. Enjoy this slow flow class on Tuesday and Thursday mornings that combines the powerful pairing of two disciplines: fusing the Yin style of long-held passive poses with the dynamic, Yang style of Vinyasa. This class will begin by opening the body to more flexibility and energy, encouraging a non-reactive quality of mind. After, class will move into a flow that consists of linking foundational yoga poses with breath. Pre-registration required, $16. Wild Ginger Apothecary, 6557 Superior Ave., Sarasota, 941-312-5630, WildGingerApothecary.com.

Palm Studio Englewood Youth Yoga-Free! - 5-5:45pm. Come join Grace in a free yoga class for kids. Palm Studio and Boutique, 441 W. Dearborn St., Englewood, 941-208-5568, PalmStudioEnglewood.com.

FREE Optimizing Health through Functional Medicine Talk with Dr. Hutch at Turning TidesA Whole-Body Healing Sanctuary - 6-7:30pm. Dr. Hutch will cover various health problems using a functional medicine approach, review optimal lab ranges, and discuss how nutrition is more than just a substance. Come learn about our premier 100% plant-based GLP-1 activator for weight loss. RSVP, space is limited, dinner provided. Call, email, or visit today to save your spot at 941-280-4673, Info@TurningTides.us, 6672 Cortez Rd., W, Bradenton. You can find us on social too! FB: @TurningTidesWithDrHutch IG: TurningTides_DrHutch.

Boot Up Your Law of Attraction Class - 7-8:30pm, Dec 3-17. With Zan Benham. We renew our understanding of the Law of Attraction with a review of processes contained in the book, Ask and It Is Given by Esther and Jerry Hicks. A class to spice up your abilities to help co-create for best life ever. Good for you and the good of the planet. Class includes a weekly meditation. $10/ class. At Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd. Bring a notebook. Rev. Zan Benham, 941-922-7839, or Zan@woman-spirit.com.

Wednesday

Spiritual Living Circle, a Mid-Week Faith Lift, Presented by Center for Spiritual Living Cultural Coast - Join licensed CSL Spiritual Practitioners and others in a safe and friendly environment to discuss spiritual ideas, using the Science of Mind Magazine as a guide. For more information email Info@CSLCulturalCoast.org.

Architecture Trolley Tour - 10:30am. Hop aboard our air-conditioned trolley to learn about Sarasota’s distinctive architectural styles. Tours feature Mid-Century Modern, Art Deco, and Mediterranean Revival buildings, homes, and structures. $48.99 + tax/handling fee. Tours depart from the Discover Sarasota Tours Trolley Cottage Gift Shop, 1826 4th Street, Sarasota, 941-260-9818. DiscoverSarasotaTours.com.

Feldenkrais with Bonnie K - 11am, until Dec 18. Online! Awareness Through Movement classes: Lessons (in chairs/on floor) are designed to quiet non-working habitual patterns, invite you into a process for learning and offer experiences for more efficient movement. Ongoing classesmovement lessons w/replays. More info, 941-3602248. FeldenkraisInSarasota.com. Register with Bonnie at: FeldenkraisinSarasota.com/Sarasota-Classes-Feldenkrais/

Free Reiki Healing Clinic - 4-6pm. Come visit our new location. Reiki is an ancient healing technique that is thousands of years old.  Reiki is the Chi or life force energy that runs through each of us and is directed and transferred during a Reiki session. Free session every Wednesday. Angel Ministries, 1890 Tamiami Trail S., Venice, 941-4924995, AngelMinistriesFl.org.

Palm Studio Englewood Teen Yoga -Free!5-5:45pm. Come join Lisa in a free yoga class for teens. Palm Studio and Boutique, 441 W. Dearborn St., Englewood, 941-208-5568, PalmStudioEnglewood.com.

Wednesday Wisdom Share - 6pm. A gathering of “Light-Minded” Souls is a sacred circle that meets to honor and support each other weekly. We are all awakening and expanding in new ways. Whether you are just becoming aware or have been on your path. We offer a safe and supportive space to share. Bring your stories and experiences, or just listen as others share theirs. Arrive early, doors close at 6pm to honor our sacred space. Love donations welcome. Spirit Speaks, 411 W. Dearborn St., Englewood, 734-464-6828.

Cosmic Center Special Spirit Messages and Channeling - 7-8:30pm, first and third Wed. of the month. This service is channeled through Reverend Nancy Lee and for all who attend can receive messages from loved ones, guides, masters and teachers in spirit. Also, at the last part of the service Rev. Nancy Lee will channel Divine Wisdom, guidance, and teachings from the Divine Nine Counsel, which are part of her spirit team working with her and through her. Come and enjoy this beautiful service to uplift and inspire you. Love donation $20. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-3719333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram.

The Om Shoppe Singing Bowl Sound Baths7-8pm, 2nd Wed. of each month. Discover the power of sound to help you access inner peace, stillness, and deep relaxation. An acoustic crystalline experience of transcendence while relaxing in anti-gravity lounge chairs with professionally trained sound therapists and musicians. Always sells out- reserve now. $45. The Om Shoppe, 4801 S. Tamiami Tr #5, Sarasota, 941-706-3257, TheOMShoppe.com or TheOMShoppeandSpa.com.

Thursday

Free Kombucha Tasting at Flobucha - 5-6pm. Join us for a free Kombucha tasting at Flobucha Sarasota’s first Kombucha Bar in Gulf Gate. Enjoy a free test flight of our 6 delicious locally made Kombuchas and do something good for your health at the same time. Kombucha is known for its high nutritional value and support for healthy gut bacteria. Bring your friends and come hang out and have a good time. Flobucha, 2725 Mall Drive, Sarasota, Info@Flobucha.com, follow us on social media: Instagram.com/Flobucha and on Facebook: Flobucha.

Palm Studio Englewood Youth Yoga -Free! - 5-5:45pm. Come join Grace in a free yoga class for kids. Palm Studio and Boutique, 441 W. Dearborn St., Englewood, 941-208-5568, PalmStudioEnglewood.com.

Cosmic Center Lightworker Circle Gathering of Friends - 7pm. Come and meet other like-minded people to share, exchange, and converse on various spiritual topics. An eclectic and ever evolving group that embraces the energy of the circle in the present time and what unfolds for both newbies and seasoned participants. Facilitated by Clark Mumaw, this circle of Lightworker Friends will enhance and broaden each participant’s experience in real time. All are welcome. Love offering. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram.

Murder Mystery Trolley Tour: Who Killed the Circus Queen? - 7:30pm. Step right up to solve the murder of Dahlia, Queen of the High Trapeze in this 90-minute interactive Murder Mystery Musical tour where you are a part of the show! Tours depart from the Discover Sarasota Tours Trolley Cottage Gift Shop, 1826 4th Street, Sarasota, 941260-9818, DiscoverSarasotaTours.com.

Friday

Cosmic Center Rev. Ildigo Varga, Resident Spiritual Guardian - Rev. Varga removes all nefarious energies. She has extensive knowledge of metaphysical and of spiritual self-defense against nefarious energies. She has been training ongoing with the Devine Angelic realms of light of the highest order to the present day. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows, Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com, Facebook and Instagram.

Ethiopian Food Pop-Up at Flobucha - 5-8pm, 13 & 20th. Join us for another fun night of Ethiopian food, seasonal flavors and live music. A fabulous array of Ethiopian dishes that start at $6. You can enjoy all 6 of the menu items for $37 and it’s great to share while enjoying our refreshing Kombucha in a variety of flavors. We have six standard flavors, two seasonal flavors as well as our non-alcoholic wine alternatives Cab, Rose and Blanc. We now offer a 6 flight Kombucha sampler for $12.95 if you want to try them all. Then you can order your favorite by the glass and take a bottle or growler home with you. For those who are musically inclined and would like to contribute to the live music, you are welcome to use our stage at the Flobucha taproom that includes a microphone, guitar and piano. Flobucha, 2725 Mall Drive, Sarasota, Info@Flobucha.com, follow us on social media: Instagram.com/Flobucha and on Facebook: Flobucha.

Unity of Sarasota– Friday Night Spirit Express7pm, 1st Friday – Kirtan; 2nd Friday (6pm) – Movies. Unity of Sarasota, 3023 Proctor Rd., 941-9553301. UnityofSarasota.org.

Services

LEARN PIANO FROM A MASTER TEACHER. It’s never too late! Start lessons now and be able to play Christmas songs on the piano by this Christmas. Jennifer Loftus recently relocated to Punta Gorda from Maui and carries the Aloha spirit wherever she goes. With her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in music education and over 35 years teaching experience, she welcomes both beginning to advanced students. Learn more at MusicMovestheSoul.com or call 808283-3774 for a complimentary 15 min. consultation.

NON-TOXIC HOME CLEANING. At Clean Home Time, we use 100% chemical-free products. Serving Sarasota/ Bradenton/LWR areas. Book online at CleanHomeTime.com or call/text 941842-0503.

HOUSECLEANING. Enjoy your free time and let us do what we do best: Housecleaning to your healthy satisfaction. Call Paula for a free estimate 941-320-4052.

Saturday

Guided Meditation - 10:30-11:45am for a guided meditation. When you learn how to find inner peace and joy among chaos, you can tap into it anytime, anywhere. Blue Lotus Buddhist Meditation Center is a space to learn how to calm your mind, cultivate peace and joy, and live in the present moment. Private meetings, corporate training, blessings, weddings, memorials and other ceremonies are available with our monks. These in-person events take place at the Sanctuary of Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Venice, 1971 Pinebrook Road, Venice. A Zoom link is available on the website BLBMC.org. Contact Info@ BLBMC.org. for more information.

Psychic Saturday - 11:30am-2pm, 1st Sat only. In Davis Hall of Sarasota Center of Light. There is a 15-minute reading for $20 and in Flexer Healing Chapel there is healing with a $5 love donation. All are welcome! Sarasota Center of Light, 852 S Tuttle Ave. 941-953-6620, SarasotaCenterOfLight.com.

Palm Studio Englewood Youth Yoga -Free!11:30-12:30pm. Come join Grace in a free yoga class for kids. Palm Studio and Boutique, 441 W. Dearborn St., Englewood, 941-208-5568, PalmStudioEnglewood.com.

Acupuncture/Chinese Medicine

CARYN L. YOUNG, DOM, AP, OTR

Board Certified Acupuncture Physician

The Integrated Path, P.A. 2801 Fruitville Rd.Suite 135, Sarasota 941-924-8833 • IntegratedPath.com

The Integrated Path to Health and Wellness for the whole family utilizing Traditional Chinese Medicine,Acupuncture, Energetic Medicine, Bloodwork Analysis,Clinical Nutrition Assessments and ZYTO Elite to restore balance. Over 30 years of clinical experience!

DR DEBORAH SCANDIN AP RRT

Acupuncture Physician

Respiratory Therapist

Located at Dr. Luo’s Oriental Medicine 3292 Fruitville Rd., STE 104, Sarasota 941-955-8882

DrLuoAcupuncture.com

Dr Scandin has over 25 years combined experience in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Respiratory Therapy and Neuromuscular Massage. She treats : flu & colds, sore throat, asthma, headaches, sinusitis, sport injuries, trauma and total wellness .

SARASOTA CENTER FOR ACUPUNCTURE AND NUTRITION

Dr. Christina Captain, DAOM Nationally Board Certified Dipl.Ac Complimentary Meet & Greet The Medical Complex 2650 Bahia Vista Street, Suite 101, Sarasota, 941-951-1119 • ScanSRQ.com

Sarasota Center For Acupuncture and Nutrition is an integrated wellness practice addressing all health issues.We will find the key to unlock your highest level of health and wellness. Complimentary meet & greet.

Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide.

Acupuncture Facelift

FACES BY DR ANNA

Anna L. Baker, D.O.M.

Nationally Board Certified Acupuncture Physician 941-924-2723 • FacesByDrAnna.com

Unique muscle-tightening acupuncture facelift and necklift done with 12 hair-thin needles, none of which are on the face. Results documented photographically. Only one maintenance treatment needed every 18 months. Free consultation includes facial analysis. Monthly seminars, call for schedule.

Acupuncture/ Thermography/ Massage

SANDHILL HEALING CENTER LLC

Dr. Karen Helmick, D.O.M.

Yevette Sutter, R.N. 2 locations: 2484 Caring Way, Suite D Port Charlotte 941-235-8929

SandHillHealing.com

Healthy Body

Acupuncture, LLC 1511 Tamiami Trail S., Suite 202 Venice 941-228-4688

AcupunctureVenice.com

Sandhill Healing Center offers medical thermography with no compression, no radiation or pain. They are focused on the well-being of your entire body by offering acupuncture, oriental medicine and NADA nights.

NATURAL APOTHECARY SHOPPE

Internal/External Beauty

6608 Gateway Ave., (Gulf Gate), Sarasota 941-554-8623

NaturalApothecaryShoppe.com

Instagram:The Natural Apothecary Shoppe

FB: Natural Apothecary Shoppe

Organic skincare, (made on the premises), natural cosmetic kits by 2 time Emmy Award Winning Makeup Artist Laurie Lombardi. Professional supplements, enzymes, vitamins, CBD, homeopathy, herbal consultant by our Holistic Pharmacist.

ASTROLOGY

CHAPALA ASTROLOGY

Based in Venice, Online Sessions 917-376-5347

AstroChapala@gmail.com

VenusAwakening.net

International Astrologer with 15 years of experience. Based on the knowledge of ancient Persian astrology, I examine your birth chart’s karmic planets and other important indicators to create your Personal Development Plan. In our transformational sessions you will learn step by step your life purpose, goals, tasks for this incarnation, karmic mission, and the meaning of your life. I offer coaching, private yoga classes, and spiritual guidance - all based on your natal chart. Gift certificates are available.

Bookstore/Gifts

ELYSIAN FIELDS GIFTS & BOOKS FOR CONSCIOUS LIVING

Jewelry/Workshops/Readings/Spiritual Items 2 locations: 1273 S. Tamiami Trail

Midtown Plaza, Sarasota 941-361-3006

8207 Cooper Creek Blvd

Apothecary

WILD GINGER APOTHECARY

6557 Superior Avenue (Gulf Gate Shopping Village), Sarasota 941-312-5630

WildGingerApothecary.com

Community for health + wellness. Offering hemp CBD, health remedies, metaphysical gifts and tools, crystals, cards, essential oils, jewelry and more! Classes and drop-in tarot and psychic readers daily. Tues-Sat 10am-5pm.

The Shoppes at UTC University Park, Sarasota 941-893-5787

ElysianFieldsGifts.com

Info@ElysianFieldsOnline.com

Elysian Fields, a Sarasota shopping destination for over 32 years, offers hand-selected books, gifts, greeting cards, jewelry, spiritual items and more! Coming to Elysian Fields is an opportunity to explore your senses, embrace the serene and delve into self-discovery. They offer daily intuitive readings, workshops, house clearings, private events, parties, and more.

Chiropractors

GENTLEBAY SARASOTA

CHIROPRACTIC

Residual Strain Therapy

Eric Winder DC

Offices in Sarasota and Venice, FL 941-957-8390 • Eric.Winder.dc@gmail.com

Professional care with a personal focus. Feel better through proper alignment, and get back to work and play! See our website for more information.

COMMUNITY

SPIRITUAL BOOKS, INTUITIVE READINGS, PODCASTS & CLASSES

S.M.I.L.E. -- Spiritual Miracles Intentional Living Education

Michelle Marie Angel 541-261-4483 (text)

Michelle@Smile4Love.com Smile4Love.com

MichelleMarieAngel.com VisionarySolutions4Smile.org

Empowering Books at Amazon. Live Love, Forever Free, & It IS A New World After All will help you attain higher consciousness, replace old programming, and give you tools for empowerment and self-development. Will help overcome challenges, lift vibration, and create miracles. Specialized Readings - Zoom or local. God’s Gifts, Angel Reading, Tarot, or Variety. Triple Crown with Energy Healing. MichelleMarieAngel.com. For 3 Books that will change your life, Events, audio books, messages, visit Smile4Love.com. Rumble “smilesoulpower” or YouTube SMILE Soul Power. Classes: VisionarySolutions4Smile.org. Text Michelle at: 541-261-4483. Email: Michelle@Smile4Love.com.

Feldenkrais Method®

THE FELDENKRAIS METHOD®

Lessons for Children (ABM), Adults, Classes, Prof Seminars

Bonnie Kissam, M.A., Feldenkrais® Practitioner, LMT, CE Provider 941-360-2248

Bonnie@FeldenkraisInSarasota.com FeldenkraisInSarasota.com

The Feldenkrais® Approach , ‘Movement with Attention’, helps one ‘sense easier, improved posture and ways of moving. Clients optimize their musical, athletic or everyday activities through heightened ‘awareness’. They find unique ways to recover from injury, surgeries or illness. Call for appointments, classes or  for weekend TOUCH TO INFORM seminars 941360-2248, Bonnie@FeldenkraisInSarasota.com.

Functional & Lifestyle Wellness

KORMAN RELIEF & WELLNESS CENTER

Laura Korman, DC, DACBN

Chiropractor, Diplomate in Nutrition 16954 Toledo Blade Blvd, Port Charlotte 941-629-6700 • DrLauraKorman.com

Dr. Korman specializes in helping peri-menopausal women eliminate pain, fatigue and unwanted belly fat through functional medicine, lifestyle strategies and regenerative therapies so they can reclaim their vitality and stay engaged in the life they love. We offer PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy), Class IV Deep Tissue Laser, Near & Far Infrared Sauna, Decompression Therapies, Whole Body Vibration and carry a professional line of supplementation.

TURNING TIDES WITH DR. HUTCH

Dr. Debbie Hutchinson DCN, CNS, LDN, IFMCP-c, CHHC 6672 Cortez Rd. W., Bradenton 941-280-4673 • Info@TurningTides.us TurningTidesWithDrHutch.com

Turning Tides with Dr. Hutch is a Whole-Body Healing Sanctuary here to help you identify underlying causes of chronic health problems through the view of a Functional Medicine lens. When you’ve tried all the conventional methods and aren’t getting answers, we dig deeper to identify the root-cause. Our goal is to lead you on a journey to a healthier you with compassion and proficiency. We offer personalized, targeted services and a host of inhouse modalities to aid you on your way. Functional Medicine health programs, Salt Therapy, BioCharger, IonCleanse Foot Detox, BrainTap, Bemer, Meal Plans, and many special events in the Salt Room, Thermography, Complimentary talks with dinner. Call or visit us today to set up your session! You can find us on social too! FB: @TurningTidesWithDrHutch IG: TurningTides_DrHutch.

Mediumship & Spiritual Readings

INTERNATIONAL MEDIUM, INTUITIVE, MASTER HEALER & SPIRITUAL COACH

Caroline Crawford  Receive Messages from the spirit world with clarity and compassion. 941-402- 9595 • Carolinecrawford.org

CarolineCrawfordorg@gmail.com

Highly gifted British Medium and Master Healer, with four decades experience, Caroline channels messages of healing to comfort, inspire and empower you from your loved ones and her team of Angelic Beings. Receive guidance & insight into your life now and your future career, relationships, health and spiritual path. Spiritual coaching and guidance sessions are also available to transform and empower you. Caroline is currently based in Sarasota. By appointment only, in person, by phone or zoom.

Natural Food

CAFE EVERGREEN

801 S Tamiami Trail, Nokomis, FL 941-412-4334 • CafeEvergreen.net

Cafe Evergreen is a natural, organic restaurant. Our menu consists of many organic recipes designed to not only taste delicious, but also enhance your health. Open Monday-Saturday, closed on Sundays.

Non-Medical End of Life Doula

JANE STIRLEN

Emotional/Physical Support, Caregiving 636-346-6451

CrystalEmbellishments@gmail.com

Being a Doula is a very spiritual calling for Jane. As a Doula she will offer emotional and physical support. As caregiver she has developed a close connection to her clients. Whether you have been a constant caregiver to your loved one and just need a break or perhaps you are alone and need a caring person to comfort you, Jane is reliable and willing to help. Through her caregiving she has been vetted and fingerprinted, has a level 2 background check, been drug tested and has a CPR course document.

Organic Salon

HAIR & EARTH ORGANIC SALON

200 Central Ave, Suite 18, Sarasota 941-284-9563

HairandEarth.GlossGenius.com

Erinn offers Sarasota excellence in conscious haircare. Cuts, color, highlights, smoothing treatments and more. Metaphysical gifts too! Kevin Murphy color line as well as retail products available. Comfortable, private space for calm, creative collaboration. Call or text Erinn Earth for an appointment or consultation. Or schedule online at: HairandEarth.GlossGenius.com.

Pain Management Neck and Back Pain

DISC CENTERS OF AMERICA/SARASOTA

Dr. David Cifra, DC Non-Surgical Spinal • Decompression Specialist Office: 941-358-2224 • Cell: 315-345-7390 DrCifra@SarasotaDiscCenter.com SarasotaDiscCenter.com

Medical Breakthrough Technology! Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Specialist, Dr.David Cifra,DC. Advanced procedure for patients who have back and neck pain and want to avoid narcotics, epidural injections, and unnecessary surgeries. Over 90% effective. No pain, No drugs, No surgery, NO Injections. Call today 941-3582224. FREE CONSULTATION.

Pet Supplies

PET SUPPLY CENTER

Natural & Holistic Premium Pet Foods 3558 Webber Street, Sarasota 941-925-4376 • PetSupplyCenter@gmail.com PetSupplyCenterSarasota.com

Offering full lines of veterinary diets, raw and frozen diets, dog, cat and bird supplies. Huge selection of toys, treats, flea and tick products, collars and more. Certified veterinary nutritional consultant on staff. We ship and pets always welcome!

Reiki Certifications

WILD GINGER APOTHECARY

6557 Superior Avenue Gulf Gate Shopping Village, Sarasota 941-312-5630 • WildGingerApothecary.com

Level 1, 2 and 3 Reiki Healing Certifications held monthly at Wild Ginger Apothecary with instructors Paula and Jean-Luc Casano of Sana Sana Studio. Visit WildGingerApothecary.com for more information or to schedule your training! Private classes are also available for small groups of 4 or more. Tues-Sat 10am5pm.

Shamanic Practices

SPIRITUAL COUNSELOR, SHAMANIC AND REIKI PRACTICES

Rev. Zan Benham, BSL, BD, CHT 941-922-7839

Spiritual counselor, shamanic practitioner, Reiki healing, breath, and energy work, hypnosis, soul retrieval, past life regression all to empower and help you move into the Divine flow of the joy and power within you.

Spiritual Centers

COSMIC CENTER OF SPIRITUAL LIGHT

Embracing the New Paradigms of our Awak-ening Consciousness 5041 Ringwood Meadows - Bldg G-2 • Sarasota CCOSL.com • Facebook/Instgram/Twitter

A place of Light and Uncondition-al Love bringing together awak-ened and awakening minds and hearts for healing, enlightenment, support and joy!

SARASOTA CENTER OF LIGHT

852 S Tuttle Ave, Sarasota 941-953-6620 • SarasotaCenterOfLight.com

Experience the peaceful energy, love and light of our metaphysical spiritual community. Join us for the inspiration, healing and connection to Spirit in our services, classes and social gatherings.

Tai Chi Gung

TAI CHI GUNG SARASOTA

Certified Instructor for the Tibet Lamasery Jill Morris 2010 Pine Terrace Suite B Sarasota 941-321-7197 • DoctorJillMorris.com

Tai Chi Gung is a regenerative system of health and longevity developed by Lao Tzu 3300 years ago. It combines movement, breathing, and the mind to increase the vital energy, or life force of the body systems to cultivate more inner peace, improved balance, deeper sleep, mindfulness, and spiritual wisdom in your life to name a few. Sign up for classes at DoctorJillMorris.com

Thermography

FLORIDA MEDICAL THERMOGRAPHY

June Drennon, CCT 2008

JuneDrennon@TampaBayThermography.com 727-729-2711

FloridaMedicalThermography.com

JuneDrennon@FloridaMedicalThermography.com

Certified Clinical Thermographer 2008. Prevention is better than early detection. Knowledge is power: Know your risk factors to make corrections and avoid developing pathology. Call for location convenient for you.

Weddings

DIVINE CHAPEL OF LOVE

In the Picturesque Natural Beauty of The Meadows

5041 Ringwood Meadow, Sarasota DivineChapelofLove.com • 941-295-9333

The Divine Chapel of Love offers a place for

weddings, renewal of vows and ceremonies for couples who wish to commemorate their special occasion in a beautiful surrounding to form lasting memories where Love is All That Matters.

Wellness Center

HOLISTIC HEALING & WELLNESS CENTER LONGBOAT KEY

Dr. Medge Jaspan, DHS

Tesla Biohealing, Pain Release, High Strength Life Force Energy,  Sleep, Pain-Free, Advanced Emotional Release, Energy Healing, Spiritual Counseling, Mindfulness Classes, Positive Psychology Interventions

Mediterranean Plaza, 595 Bay Isles Rd. 120P, Longboat Key 941-299-9399

At our Tesla Biohealing Center, guests enjoy the super boost of high-strength Biophoton Life Force Energy. With the unique experience of Tesla Biophoton Generators, people stay relaxed and receive biophotons into every living cell of the body.  People going through life challenges work with us to heal the root cause of their discomfort. Shift- Reset, Regenerate, and Rewrite Your Story with Dr. Medge Jaspan, DHS.

Yoga

WILD GINGER APOTHECARY

6557 Superior Avenue

(Gulf Gate Shopping Village), Sarasota  941-312-5630 • WildGingerApothecary.com

Community for health + wellness. Offering hemp CBD, bulk herbs, remedies, sage, gifts, cards, metaphysical tools, essential oils, jewelry and more! Classes and drop-in psychic readers daily. Tues-Sat 10am5pm.

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