November 2022 Natural Awakenings Sarasota

HACKS TO LOWER ANXIETY

HOW BEING GRATEFUL MAKES US HEALTHY FINDING CALM DURING TURBULENT TIMES

ANIMALS CAN BE CAREGIVERS

RIGHT TO LIFT YOUR MOOD

CHEMICALS’ POSE LASTING THREAT

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.

Call (941) 259-1891 today to schedule an appointment to see if you suffer from a neck misalignment that may be affecting your health.

We have helped people with the following conditions:

Accidents

Back Pain

Disease

Pain

Syndrome

Neuralgia

& 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

259-1891 • sarasotauppercervical.com

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SARASOTA /MANATEE EDITION

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In this nation, the month of November is traditionally a time to express gratitude, but after such a tumultuous past few years, some of us might feel more anxious than grate ful. It can be hard to count our blessings when stress levels are high, and our mental health seems fragile—but it’s important to honor these emotions, rather than simply brushing them aside.

This issue of Natural Awakenings is all about tending to our mental and emotional wellness with practical, intentional coping mechanisms to relieve anxiety and re-access inner peace. Whatever circumstances are unfolding in your life right now—whether it’s a season of abundance or a season of difficulty—we hope you will find a breath of fresh air in these pages. And just maybe, a spark of joyfulness and gratitude will be lit inside you once again!

To begin this mental health journey, our feature article is all about “Staying Serene in Turbulent Times: How to Turn Anxiety into Positive Action.” As our society faces an onslaught of climate crises, political division, economic inflation and the long-term effects of COVID-19, it’s no surprise that our collective anxiety has reached a fever pitch. Nearly 85 percent of Americans are worried about this country’s future, and 70 percent are con cerned about the impact of environmental issues on our way of life (Yale University). These challenges are complicated, but we still can take action if we use anxiety as fuel for change. So we must build the resilience for making a difference. This starts with lifestyle choices such as investing in therapy, limiting social media consumption, finding positive news sources and prioritizing self-care.

To delve further into the topic of anxiety—and how to alleviate it—our “Healing Ways” article for this month offers 12 simple and actionable strategies to bolster mental well-being. All of these can be practiced on a consistent, daily basis to ensure that anxiety will not interfere with our activities, goals, routines and overall functionality. Some of the strategies mentioned in this article include: exercising in nature, deep breathing, praying in one’s faith tradition, journaling, tapping (with the Emotional Freedom Technique), meditating, taking nutritional supplements, listening and moving to music, exposing oneself to cold water, feeling rooted in the present, bonding with an animal, and accepting the anxiety instead of repressing it.

Chances are, you’ve heard the phrase, “You are what you eat,” but are you aware that connection goes deeper than just physical health? In this issue’s “Conscious Eating” article, we explore how the brain and gut interact with each other, causing the food we consume to impact our moods. 90 percent of serotonin––a neurotransmitter that helps stabilize emotions––is created in the gut, which means that any nutrient deficiencies or imbalances can throw off the gut-brain connection, leading to anxiety, depression or other mental health issues (The Second Brain). Whole foods can lift our moods naturally, while foods with preservatives, refined sugars, and other artificial chemicals or ingredients can cause them to plummet. This article also features three recipes: a quinoa beetroot salad, almond flour blueberry muffins and a gut-friendly smoothie.

As per usual this month, we invite you to participate in our crossword puzzle chal lenge. Look for clues within this issue, then check your answers at NASRQ.com. We know this time of year can be stressful or anxiety-inducing, but we strive to be a source of well ness, peace, restoration and enlightenment for you in the midst of life’s hectic pace. So on that note, we’ll see you back here next month when the holiday season is in full-swing!

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

Sarasota/Manatee Edition www.nasrq.com

Virtue of Health Now Offers Nonsurgical Vaginal Rejuvenation Procedure

Virtue of Health now offers an in-office, non-surgical alternative to labiaplasty.

If you have considered vaginal rejuvenation, but the risks, surgical costs, scarring and downtime have caused you to feel apprehensive, AVIVA could be the answer.

Before AVIVA, there was no nonsurgi cal solution to dramatically reduce the size of the labia. AVIVA permanently shrinks and tightens the tissue, using radiofrequen cy. This revolutionary, minimally invasive, scarless procedure enhances the aesthetic appearance of the labia, while assisting in its functional restoration, without anesthe sia, stitches, extensive recovery or having to break from sexual activity.

AVIVA is ideal for women who are bothered by the appearance of their labia and vagina. Whether you were born with large or irregular labial folds, or you have experienced changes in appearance due to childbirth or aging, AVIVA can help. The AVIVA procedure also improves vag inal health by lowering the risk of medical issues caused by loosened skin such as repeated instances of vaginitis and urinary incontinence. AVIVA empowers women to regain their confidence during intimacy, and it eliminates the irritation caused by ex ercise or tight fitted clothes. To learn more about nonsurgical vaginal rejuvenation—or to find out if you’re a candidate for this procedure—please contact Virtue of Health to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Location: 4161 Clark Rd., Sarasota. For more information, call 941-724-6399 or visit VirtueOfHealth.com.

Heal Your Pets with Crystal Sound Bowl and Reiki Therapy

Animals can benefit greatly from Sound Bowl Healing Therapy. Many pets have anxiety, fear of being alone, panic attacks or abandonment issues, especially rescued ani mals. They also absorb their owners’ stress and negative energies.

Reiki and Sound Bowl Healing can be an effective complement to your vet’s prescription as well. Your pet will feel a healing touch, and you’ll see an improvement in their mood and energy within weeks depending on conditions. Before a major surgery, it can also calm both your pet and you so the experience is much less stressful.

Clearing pets’ chakras is important to certified Sound Bowl Healer and Reiki Master Gaëlle Wizenberg of Objects of Magic. They are receptive to high frequencies, and we see positive results from these treatments. The animals are quite at ease—they even close their eyes and rest during the treatment.

We recommend a 15-minute session biweekly to get started. Many of our clients wish they knew this was available earlier, and until recently, never thought about this therapy for their beloved pets. We’re trying to change that and create more awareness.

Once your pet is used to it, you can even purchase your own bowls and do it regularly for them in the comfort of your own home. Many pets have cysts or tumors, so the release of blockage can help reduce and ease the buildup. Reiki also eases the pain of older pets with arthritis and other sources of discomfort. Digestion can also be improved.

We have wonderful healers at Objects of Magic to assist you. Bring your pet’s favorite blanket or bed if you want them to feel even more at home during the treatment. Book a session and experience the magic it will do to your loved ones—furry or not.

Location: 2106 Bispham Rd., Sarasota. For more information, call 818-739-7834, email Love@ObjectsOfMagic.com or visit ObjectsOfMagic.com.

Mirabai Devi Returns to Sarasota

Mirabai Devi is a world-renowned spiritual teacher, Divine Mother, heart-centered inspirational speaker and pre senter, a channel and conduit for the Divine Light, global healer, author and founder of the Mirabai Devi Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit.

Devi has not been to the Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light since 2020, but she will return on November 11, 7–8:30 p.m., and November 12, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. On both days, she will share her profound focus on Awakening and Ascension. Her Foundation’s mission is to raise world consciousness with the awakening and healing of humanity. Devi has been in service to this mission for nearly 30 years.

Born in South Africa and currently living in Hawaii, she has traveled all over the world as a teacher, healer and spiritual leader. Devi’s programs and group healings have trans formed millions of lives of globally.

Location: 5041 Ringwood Meadow Bldg. G-2, Sarasota. For more information and to register for this event, visit MirabaiDevi.SplashThat.com.

briefs

Peter Kater in Concert at Unity of Sarasota

Unity of Sarasota is pleased to present Peter Kater in concert on December 3, 7 p.m., in our newly renovated Sanctuary. Please join us for an evening of transformative music in this beautiful venue. This two-time Grammy winning, multi-plat inum pianist and composer has been an innovator of contemporary instrumental music for over three decades.

Kater has received many awards and accolades for his rich, diverse music including 14 Grammy Award nominations and two Grammy wins. He has released over 70 critically acclaimed recordings, and has scored the music for over 100 television and film productions, as well as 11 on and off-Broadway plays.

From solo piano and contemporary jazz ensembles to full orchestral works, his cross-genre music is heard all over the world from the Olympics to Carnegie Hall. Kater has collaborated with musicians such as Native American flutist R. Carlos Nakai, sting guitarist Dominic Miller, and Sacred Chantress Snatam Kaur. An avid environmentalist and humanitarian, he also received the Environment Leadership Award from the United Nations.

Location: 3023 Proctor Rd., Sarasota. Cost: $35 (early bird), $40 (after November 19), $50 (premium seating). To purchase tickets, visit Tickets.BrightstarEvents.com/Events/Peter-Kat er. For more information, call 941-955-3301 or visit UnityOfSarasota.com.

Celebrate the Holidays on the Christmas Carol Trolley

Celebrate the holiday season with friends or family onboard Dolly the Trolley with Discover Sarasota Tours. This new 75-minute tour features a Christmas Carol singalong, downtown lights and musical performances by a cast of local performers including Kaylene McCaw, Debbie White, Liz Pascoe, Ren Pear son and Jason Ellis This special tour is filled with Sarasota Christmas stories, jokes, trivia and heartfelt sea sonal cheer. Before boarding, everyone is invited to get into the holiday spirit with free beer, wine or fizzy punch (with champagne for the adults), while browsing the Trolley Cottage Gift Shop full of fun holiday gifts and other treasures. Festive holiday outfits are also encouraged. The tour runs from December 10–30 (excluding December 12, 24 and 25). Tour tickets will also include free parking. For more information, call 941-260-9818 or visit DiscoverSarasotaTours.com.

www.nasrq.com

A Spiritual Practice and Sense of Belonging Can Support Mental Health

Spiritual practice is one of the primary coping mechanisms for many people, and as humans, we have a fundamental motivation to form and maintain bonds with others. Likewise, a sense of belonging is also essential to our physical and mental well-being.

The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Charlotte County is a community of individuals who offer a community where seekers of justice, love and compassion can follow their spiritual path in fellowship with others. Unitarian Universalists have an expression that says, “Love is the spirit of this fellowship, and service is its law. This is our aspiration: to dwell together in peace, to seek truth in love, and to help one another.”

One way that we help one another is through spiritual practice. To this end, we offer Buddhist meditation, Sunday morn ing worship, community fellowship, music and inspirational presentations. Unitarian Universalism is a covenantal faith. We are a body of individuals who pledge to walk together in the spirit of mutual love.

Our principles are shared values that guide us, but we yield religious authority to each person’s own understanding, then we do our best to figure them out and learn together. Bring your whole self: your full identity, your questioning mind and your expansive heart to our Sunday morning worship service at 10:30 a.m.

Location: 1532 Forrest Nelson Rd., Port Charlotte. For more information, visit UUFCC.org.

Digestion Help Is Just Around the Corner at Professional Supplement Center

you feel like you can’t eat the foods you used to without bloating, heart burn or indigestion? According to science, you’re probably right. The body relies on enzymes in the digestive tract to break down foods. However, for each decade after the age of 20, the body produces 10% fewer digestive enzymes than the decade before.

Age isn’t the only reason for poor digestion. Stress, an overactive immune system, eating too much or too quickly, and consuming processed foods can also impair digestion. This matters because undigested food particles can leak out from the lining of your gut to cause an immune response. So how can you find relief from digestive issues?

Introducing Digest DTX™ by Neu roScience, a unique blend of vegetarian sourced digestive enzymes with extra botanicals for promoting detoxification and immune function. * The digestive enzymes in Digest DTX™ have been shown to remain active in the gut, safely passing the acidic stomach environment to increase carbohydrate and protein digestion in the small intestine.* These enzymes were care fully selected to support the breakdown of starchy foods, refined sugars, lactose, and complex fats or oils.*

Digest DTX also contains plant-based ingredients such as turmeric, apple cider vinegar and cilantro to support detoxifica tion and help balance healthy gut bacteria.* Stop by the Professional Supplement Cen ter for a free sample of Digest DTX. Then, while you’re there, browse the variety of high-quality supplements such as Neuro Science, Standard Process, Ortho Molec ular, Douglas Labs, Pure Encapsulations, Designs for Health, Xymogen, Klaire Labs, Thorne Research and Microbiome Labs, to name a few.

Mention code “Digestion” for an exclu sive 20% off coupon, excluding sale items. Location: 5525 Palmer Crossing Cir., Saraso ta. For more information, call 941-487-5990 or visit ProfessionalSupplementCenter.com.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Admin istration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Dr. Anna Can Make You Look Like Your Snapchat

Dr. Anna Baker, DOM, invites you to join her interactive anti-aging seminars via Zoom on November 9 and November 18, both at 1:30 p.m. She will showcase her Faces by Dr. Anna acupuncture facelift and her muscle retightening Pearl Cream by Dr. Anna, both of which can make you look like your Snapchat filter pictures. Please contact the Pearl Cream by Dr. Anna store to access the meeting ID number.

Dr. Anna performs a unique type of acu puncture facelift that she invented. The muscles of the face and neck are progressively retight ened to retrace the steps that aging took. An initial package of 10 treatments is required, and the results last for 18 months before a one-treatment touchup is required to maintain the lift. COVID-19 safety protocols include treatment rooms with special air filtration systems that pull patients’ breath droplets out the window.

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.

Pearl Cream by Dr. Anna location: 2721 Mall Dr., Sarasota. Temporary COVID-19 store hours: Monday–Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. To access the meeting ID, call 941-921-2662. For more information, visit FacesByDrAnna.com and PearlCreamByDrAnna.com.

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Stem Cell Orthopedics: HOW TO ACHIEVE OPTIMAL RESULTS

by Mark Walter, M.D.

Excitement is mounting for stem cell orthopedics and the po tential of this treatment. This safe, minimally invasive modality uses a patient’s own stem cells and growth factors (from fat and blood) to heal many painful and troublesome orthopedic problems. The treatment takes about three or four hours start to finish, with minimal downtime.

Acupuncture • Detox • Chiropractic • EEG Biofeedback • Medical Thermography 24901 Sandhill Blvd. Ste 8 at Deep Creek Commons, Port Charlotte 941 235-8929 SHH.ABMP.COM

THE INDUSTRY’S TOP RATED MATTRESS DESIGN ACCORDING TO TESTING EXPERTS

THE INDUSTRY’S TOP RATED DESIGN ACCORDING TO TESTING EXPERTS

Stem cell orthopedics can facilitate major improvements in at least 80 percent of orthopedic ailments, and can help many patients avoid the risk of invasive surgeries. In addition, the benefits can be long-lasting. If you have a persistent or serious orthopedic problem, the long-term benefits of this procedure may be well worth your in vestment (please note: stem cell treatments are not covered by health insurance at this point in time).

There is one caveat, though: Results can be amazing, but these benefits are only achievable if you do the treatment correctly. The field of stem cell orthopedics has grown rapidly, and there is much misconception and misinformation. Also, many doctors attempting to perform these treatments lack the knowledge, training and expe rience in regenerative orthopedics to get optimal results.

If someone has undergone a stem cell procedure, but had a poor outcome, the first question to ask is: Who performed it, and what type of stem cells were used? Certainly, when it comes to healing, poor biologic outcomes can occur, but far more common are issues stemming from poor diagnostic and injection technique, incorrect selection or preparation of the stem cells or regenerative solution, and failure to educate the patient properly for follow-up and rehab.

There are three major determinants of the outcome of any stem cell orthopedic procedure. First, you need to make the correct diagnosis of the primary pain generators and inject them correctly. Good medicine starts with a precise diagnosis. For this, you need the right doctor with the right background and skill set. Regenera tive orthopedics is a highly specialized field, and a totally different paradigm than conventional surgical orthopedics.

Most pain actually comes from micro-tears in the attachments of ligaments, tendons and joint capsules. Unfortunately, MRI and ultrasound are not sensitive enough to make these distinctions,

and can often miss the true root cause of pain.

The only way to make a precise diagnosis—and to prioritize the pain generators in any given patient—is with a technique called palpation interrogation. If a doctor palpates a certain site on a specific structure, and it reproduces the pain, this is called the “jump sign.” The more pro nounced the jump sign, the more important that structure is to the overall pain picture, and the more crucial it becomes to address that exact spot with injections.

Second, you need to use the right kind of stem cells and prepare them correctly. Freshly prepared, DNA-matched, autolo gous stem cells are far more effective than umbilical tissue from a donor or any other type of stem cell preparation.

Finally, you need the right follow-up and rehab program to give the stem cells an optimal healing environment. If a patient is slow to respond or fails to progress after six to eight weeks, one or two PRP boosters can often help reignite the stem cells. It’s also important to maintain an active rehab program where the patients can learn how to move and use the areas involved, without overloading the attachments.

Most patients should start with a stem cell and PRP combination for all affected regions. This offers the best chance for a rapid and substantial improvement. If you optimize all of the above factors in treat ment, your chances of success are 80 to 85 percent for a great, long-term result. The goal of stem cell orthopedics is to relieve pain and restore functionality. Welcome to the medicine of the future. In the end, it’s all about quality of life!

Mark Walter MD has pioneered the field of regenerative orthopedics for the last 22 years, and is considered one of the top specialists in Florida. He just released his new book Stem Cell Orthopedics, available on Amazon. For additional information, to schedule a consul tation or reserve a seat at a free monthly sem inar, please call Dr. Walter’s office in Sarasota at 941-955-4325, text the Stem Cell Hotline at 941-376-2100 or visit us at RegenOrtho.com.

coming in the december issue

UPLIFTING HUMANITY

New Advances in Fascia Therapy

by Eric Winder, DC

Fascia therapy, the collection of methods to treat pain caused by restricted fascia, is in the midst of an important transforma tion. New findings about fascia, or fibrous connective tissue, show that some old ideas about fascia are not entirely accurate. This creates space for some exciting new insights and advancements in treatment. As a result, relieving pain with fascia therapy is now possible with gentler, more focused treatment methods.

No Adhesions

A brilliant chemist named Ida Rolf gets credit for the modern focus of treating fascia to relieve pain. Her method was called Structural Integration (nicknamed ‘Rolfing’), which gained popularity in the 1960’s. She believed that restricted fascia should be stretched, sometimes quite forcefully. However, research has shown this is impossible because fascia is too tough.

High tensile strength does not allow fascia to stretch without damage caused to the surrounding tissue. Many fascia therapists have described ‘breaking up adhesions’ in the fascia to relieve restriction. But again, research has failed to show any kind of me chanical adhesion of these fascia fibers in restricted areas.

So, what exactly occurs in the areas where fascia is restricted? After all, to a trained therapists’ hands, these areas do feel thick, taut or gummy, and when treated, they seem to soften or “melt.” The current answer is: We don’t know yet, but we do have clues.

Software, Not Hardware

In recent years, fascia researchers have begun to suspect that prob lems in fascia are caused by the nervous system. These restrictions are usually found in areas where there has been a physical trauma such as a muscle sprain, impact injury or repetitive muscular stress.

Therefore, it is possible that restrictions are caused by some kind of “injury memory” reaction from the nervous system. In a small informal study, patients were assessed (but not treated) for fascia restriction, including motion assessments, just prior to

undergoing medical anesthesia for unrelated issues. While under anesthesia, the patients were re-examined, and the restrictions had disappeared. However, when the patients woke up, they were assessed for restrictions a third time, and the former restrictions had returned.

Interestingly, I have observed a similar effect in my practice.

Some time ago, I was treating a patient for painful restrictions in her shoulder area. At one of her treatment visits, she had just received Botox injections to relax her shoulder muscle spasms caused by a previous stroke. All of the evidence of fascia restriction was suddenly gone, but returned weeks later as the Botox effects began to wear off.

At that point, I was able to release the restrictions and give her better relief for her painful shoulder. If the restrictions had been an “adhesion” or other mechanical bind of the tissue, they would not have disappeared then come back again. Therefore, instead of a “hardware” problem, fascial tensions seem to be due to “software” of the nervous system.

Less is More

Most kinds of fascia therapy, including the system first developed by Ida Rolf, have made a shift toward gentler treatment methods. With an understanding that fascia problems are driven by the nervous system’s reaction to prior trauma, the goal of treatment is different. We want to help the nervous system release injury patterns. It is not necessary to break up an adhesion through physical pressure. Gentle tissue manipulation can achieve more effective results.

Removing ‘Kinks and Dents’

Fascia exists throughout the whole body, acting as the structural fabric to connect, protect and hold us together. Restrictions in the fascia can occur deep within the body, around joints and organs. Fortunately, because the restrictions are more neurological than mechanical, even deep restrictions can often be relieved by manip ulation from the surface of the body.

These “kinks and dents” can be released to help problems near the surface of the body like tennis elbow or plantar fasciitis, but they can also help deeper issues like hip tension or restrictions in the pelvis that might contribute to irritable bowel syndrome.

Effective fascia therapy is gentle—but also quite powerful. In our office, we see many patients with deep-seated chronic pain that has not been able to respond to other types of care. If an exam ination shows fascia restriction is involved, then we can help to deliver significant pain relief over 90 percent of the time.

The new neurological focus of current fascia therapy methods is a boon for more than one reason. Treatment is much gentler for patients, and is often quite relaxing. It is also much easier on ther apists’ hands, allowing them to have a longer and more productive career, as well as to help many more patients. Ultimately, it can offer a level of pain relief that is surprising to patients who are used to more forceful treatment methods.

Dr. Eric Winder has been practicing chiropractic for 25 years. His practice emphasizes relieving pain and restoring alignment and mo tion with gentle fascia release therapies. For more information, call 941-957-8390 or visit Gentlebay.com.

Tinnakorn/AdobeStock.com

inspiration

Gratitude is Good Medicine

by Madiha Saeed

Stress, work and family routines can trap us in a pattern of negative thinking that feeds on itself and creates stress and unhappiness. With our internal and external worlds being bombarded these days with negativity, being optimistic is more important now than ever before.

Gratitude is not just a feel-good word. It is an emotion expressing appreciation for what one has—a universal concept in nearly all of the world’s spiritual traditions. Practicing gratitude daily is proven to have actual physiological consequences. It helps lower inflam matory markers, influences epigenetics, improves the immune system and even helps the heart, adding years to life.

Optimism has been found to cor

In November, you begin to know how long the winter will be.

~Martha Gellhorn

rhythm variation and coherence.

Our subconscious governs 90 percent of our thoughts and actions. It shapes our every behavior. But the subcon scious mind is nothing other than neural pathways that have been established in the brain as a result of past beliefs and conditioning. Our subconscious does no thinking of its own, but rather relies on our perception of the world around us, interpreting verbal and nonverbal cues.

When we consciously turn negativity to positivity from the inside-out, the neural pathway associated with negativ ity will take time to come down fully, so it is critical to practice gratitude regu larly. Upon waking in the morning, say 10 things that you are grateful for. Keep a gratitude journal. Put sticky notes all over the house with gratitude mes sages—on photos, light fixtures, fans, exercise equipment—to create a zone of subliminal positivity.

Remember that our perspective can reflect either our pain or our power. That choice is in our hands. Know what you are grateful for each day.

relate positively with life satisfaction and self-esteem. “Heartfelt” emotions like gratitude, love and caring produce coherent brain waves radiating to every cell of the body, as shown by technol ogy that measures changes in heart

Madiha Saeed, M.D., ABIHM, is the bestselling author of The Holistic RX, an international speaker, founder of HolisticMomMD.com and director of education for KnoWEwell.

spotlight

Health Awareness and Empowerment at Any Age: Q&A WITH HEALTHSPAN DNA

progression of an existing medical issue.

level of exposure—but the function of our bodies’ natural detoxification system also has a critical role to play.

by Mary-Elizabeth Meagher

What does longevity mean to you? Is it nothing more than an increase in life expectancy? Or is it the meaningful experience of wellness, vitality, strength and resilience as you age?

Licensed nurse practitioner Nancy Wood is on a mission to change how you think about longevity. She uses DNA test ing to help you understand the intricacies of your own unique genetic blueprint, so you can make informed, proactive choices to maintain the healthiest quality of life possible as you grow older. After all, you know the phrase: Age is just a number.

Wood is not in the business of merely extending your lifespan—she’s passionate about increasing your healthspan. In this month’s installment of The Community Spotlight, she’ll walk you through what this entails and why it’s beneficial—no matter how old you are.

Natural Awakenings: Would you summarize your background in healthcare, as well as what first sparked your interest in DNA testing?

Nancy Wood: My first degree was in public health nutrition, and this set the founda tion for my interest in health promotion versus sickness care. To that end, I have been a paramedic, a nurse, and a family nurse practitioner.

I have worked in emergency rooms, as well as in public health sectors, chronic disease management, endocrinology and brain health. Through all of those experi ences, I continued returning to an appreci ation for the value of prevention—even if that prevention means working to halt the

As far as my interest in DNA testing, this facet of my healthcare journey started upon doing a 23andMe test, which revealed I have a gene that increases the risk of Alzheimer’s. This gene also increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. My father passed away from a heart attack at age 61, and I know I inherited the gene from him.

In response to these test results, I dove into some research and took some lifestyle measures. However, after training in the ReCODE 2.0 protocol developed by neurologist Dr. Dale Bredesen, I learned that it’s possible to delay, prevent and may be even achieve partial regression of the dementia’s effects.

As part of the training, I also com pleted a course for health providers on the use and interpretation of genetic testing. I realized this could be a valuable tool in preventive medicine. I realized that genetic testing can help us be more proactive about our own health. Lifestyle choices can actu ally turn the genes on and off.

However, please note: This testing is for predisposition or risk—it’s not for absolute genetic traits, such as muscular dystrophy, or for responses to medication therapy.

NA: How does DNA testing work specifically, and what information can a person’s genetics reveal about the state of their overall health?

Wood: I use tests from three different companies. One is a medical deep dive, one is for nutrition intervention, and one is for those interested in fitness and nutrition.

One area that I specifically find inter esting and relevant to our locale is detoxifi cation. We are all exposed to mold, glypho sate, BPA and other toxins. Some of us are intensely affected by these, while others are not. This sensitivity is due, in part, to our

I use the analogy of water as it drips into a sink. If all goes well, the water flushes down the drain without a problem. But if the water comes too fast, or the drain clogs, it can overflow the sink. Similarly, genetic testing can let us know how our drains work, and lifestyle coaching can help to reduce the water flow.

Another interesting and relevant piece of information is our response to dietary sat urated fat. Chances are, we have all seen the wide range of recommendations for fat in take: low fat, Paleo and Atkins, just to name a few. These work differently for each person, and genes can explain why there is likely no ideal, one-size-fits-all diet to suit everyone.

NA: Once someone has their DNA test re sults, what lifestyle practices or interventions can they follow to ensure optimal health and quality of life?

Wood: We discuss interventions in three areas: nutrition, lifestyle measures and sup plements. Lifestyle measures can include sleep, exercise, stress reduction and toxin exposure. I have a machine (a scale) that measures body composition, and I use this tool to evaluate the effects of lifestyle changes over time. Appropriate muscle mass is a key predictor of aging well. This scale also measures visceral fat. This is the fat around our internal organs, and it can contribute to a range of medical issues: Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, stroke, high cholesterol and inflammation. Someone can have a normal BMI but high visceral fat, or vice versa. Even a naturally thin person can have high visceral fat and low muscle mass. This is why BMI is an imperfect measure of health status.

NA: In your view, does a person’s outlook and experience in the aging process tend to shift when they are knowledgeable about their health?

Wood: Yes, I do think so. Someone might be afraid to do the testing because they don’t want to learn distressing news. I com

pletely understand this because I have one of the worst profiles I’ve seen, and it was disappointing to see that. However, I also realized that I’m in fantastic health because I actually follow most of my own advice.

Age is just a number, so when we strengthen our physical and mental health, we minimize the importance of that number. I use the phrase, “Change the way you age,” because I think we can all certainly do that— and we can do it more effectively when we have a clear idea of which factors to target.

Over the course of my life, I’ve used what I call the “90-year look back” to help me with major decisions such as choosing to attend nursing school in my 40s and nurse practitioner school in my 50s. I imag ine how a decision will play out when I’m reflecting my life at age 90— whether I will regret the decision to either do or not do it.

Similarly, we can also look ahead to the last decade of life and think about all that we want to do. Do we want to be able to get down on the floor with our grandchildren or great grandchildren (and importantly, be able to stand up again)? Do we want to be able to climb a flight of stairs without feeling out of breath?

If these are issues now, the answer is not to stay off the floor or move to a home without stairs—it’s to work on improving our ability to do those activities. In other words, it’s important to ask ourselves: How will we look back on our lives at age 90 and view the choices we made about our own health and lifestyle habits? This is how we change the way we age.

NA: What piece of advice or helpful infor mation would you share with someone who might feel hesitant to try DNA testing for themselves?

Wood: I know it might be scary to find out your genetic health risks, and if there were nothing to be done about it, then I would not advise testing. But the fact is, you do have the power to make changes now—ide ally, before you start to manifest the signs and symptoms of disease.

Most diseases start about 20 years before an actual diagnosis. For example, someone will usually lose as much as 80

percent of their own insulin production by the time they receive a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes. Likewise, someone might start to build up arterial plaque well before they show visible signs of a heart issue. There fore, doesn’t it just make sense to catch these risk factors early while there is still time do something about them?

Nancy Wood, APRN, is a family nurse practitioner certified in ReCODE 2.0 and ge netic testing. Her practice, HealthSpan DNA, is located at 1491 2nd Street, Unit C, Sara sota. For more information and to schedule your own genetic testing appointment, call 941-345-0430, email Info@HealthSpanD NA.com or visit HealthSpanDNA.com.

Mary-Elizabeth Schurrer is the Managing Editor of Natural Awakenings Sarasota–Manatee. She also works as a freelance writ er, blogger and social media marketer. Her personal blog HealthBeAHippie.Wordpress. com features tips for embracing an active, nutritious, balanced and empowered lifestyle.

STAYING SERENE IN TURBULENT TIMES

HOW TO TURN ANXIETY INTO POSITIVE ACTION

by Ronica O’Hara

In this day and age, we have good reason to toss and turn in our beds at night. As our nation faces climate catastrophes, acrid politics, stubborn inflation, unpredictable virus variants and hot-button issues like abortion and guns, there’s good reason our collective anxiety levels are at a high pitch. A recent Yale survey found that 70 percent of Americans report being anxious or depressed about global warming, and a Penn State survey this year found that 84 percent of us say we are “extremely worried” or “very worried” about where the country is headed. Researchers are coining new terms: “polycrisis”, for complex, cascading crises in interacting systems, and “pre-traumatic stress disor der”, when fear of an outcome makes it as good as real to our psyches.

“It’s easy for people to feel over

The situation being so serious also means that what we do now is really important.”

To move from anxiety into effective action, mental health experts advise several strategies: taking a wider per spective, building resilience through self-care and taking individual steps to make a collective difference. As the Dalai Lama encourages, “If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito!”

Taking a Wider Perspective

News reports almost always sound dire—just like the amygdala of our brains, journalists often see their func tion as focusing on threats to alert us to dangers. “Still, if you take the long view of history, we are much better off than we were 200 years ago or 1,000 years ago, but it took many years to make those changes,” counsels Robert L. Leahy, Ph.D., director of the Ameri can Institute for Cognitive Therapy and author of the bestselling The Worry Cure and the upcoming If Only.

whelmed now, feeling there are break downs and threats on many fronts. People can wonder ‘Where do I even start?’ and feel powerless and hopeless and numb,” says psychiatrist Janet Lew is, M.D., a founder of the nationwide Climate Psychiatry Alliance and a Uni versity of Rochester clinical assistant professor of psychiatry. “We are part of a complex system that is moving into new ways of functioning, but there’s no way of predicting ahead of time exactly what all the features of the new ways of operating will be. That makes it impos sible for us to wrap our minds around everything that is happening.”

Still, she adds, “We are also by defini tion part of the system, and therefore have a responsibility to do what we can. We can’t sit on the sidelines and merely hope that things transform in good directions.

“We never know if something is hope less until we have all the data, and we seldom have all the data,” he says. “And when it comes to political emotions, many of the predictions that are made by the ‘talking heads’ in media never come true.”

Leahy counsels patience: “Social change does not come about by one person doing something. That usually comes about by a long process of mil lions of people changing their attitudes and changing their behavior. Small efforts can be made on a daily basis that move this slow process forward. We need to take a longer view, rather than expect immediate change.”

In this ongoing process, anxiety has its rightful place. “Anxiety makes us look around, figure out solutions and act. This can absolutely be turned into some thing positive,” says neuropsychologist Barbara Easterlin, of Jackson, Wyoming, an expert on eco-anxiety who is on the steering committee of the Climate Psychology Alliance of North America.

Taking action moves us into our power—as 15-year-old Greta Thunberg demonstrated by holding a sign outside the Swedish parliament. Personal actions matter because numbers add up. Only 25 percent of individuals in a social group need to make a shift before sig nificant social change follows, conclude researchers at the University of Pennsyl vania School of Engineering and Applied Science that analyzed a decade of socie tal changes in voting, health, technology and finance. Once a group reaches that tipping point, it can trigger a change in the rest of society, says study author Da mon Centola, Ph.D., author of Change: How to Make Big Things Happen.

Building Resilience with Self-Care

Fears about the shape of the planet and na tion are often piled on top of our everyday living anxieties about family and finances, which can induce emotional overload.

“We all have a ‘zone of resilience’ or ‘win dow of tolerance’, outside of which we become more reactive, less able to func tion effectively. But it is not fixed. We can learn tools to expand it and cultivate the capacity to be with more,” says Easterlin. Therapy can be a part of that process by challenging us to examine “the mental narratives that can exacerbate distress,” says Leslie Davenport, a climate psychol ogy consultant and author of Emotional Resiliency in the Era of Climate Change. It’s important to find a therapist, she says, that “validates that your feelings are a normal response to an existential crisis.” She has helped develop new programs at the American Psychology Association and the California Institute of Integral Studies to train therapists in treating eco-anxiety. For low-cost online support, the Good Grief Network offers a 10step, 10-week program to help process personal anxiety and grief about climate change. People are also sitting down to share their distress at climate cafes, small local gatherings springing up across the

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“Doing just one thing to help the planet consistently helps defeat anxiety.”

country and globe, including some online.

Getting enough sleep, eating healthy and exercising are also key self-care strategies. When anxiety strikes, psycholo gists advise shifting attention from the head to the body, using such approaches as mindful breathing, dancing and ground ing. Meditation, easily accessed these days through apps like Calm and Headspace, helps us to enter into what religious and spiritual teachings call “the still point within.”

Rather than “doomscrolling” when anxiety mounts, cutting back our media use can significantly lower stress levels, stud ies show. Wise media strategies include choosing well-estab lished, credible news sources; reading rather than watching

the news to lower its emotional impact; limiting news intake to 10 minutes once or twice a day; taking a “news fast” on occasion; and passing up sources that incessantly feed fury.

On the other hand, it’s essential to find sources for hope, an emotion important in recovery from anxiety disorders, accord ing to a study in Behavior Therapy. Googling “good news on climate change” will bring up articles about alternative energy growth, new super-enzymes that eat plastic rubbish and black rhinos coming back from the brink of extinction. Although dystopic books abound, others offer hope, such as Draw down, with its sensible, scaled-down strategies to stop global warming by 2050.

Moving into Action

Virtually no one can take on all the problems of the nation and globe at once—and the good news is that unless we hold high public office, we don’t have to. Instead, “In taking action, focus on what you are good at, what your sphere of influence might be,” advises Lewis. “What are you most heartbroken over? Get involved in that and allow yourself to feel really good about what you’re doing and other people are doing.”

By narrowing our focus, we can hone in on an issue and figure out our part in its solution. “We need a broad range of collective action for transformation,” says Davenport. “For cli mate change, a teacher could bring social-emotional learning to climate education into the classroom or start an after school ‘green club’; an artist could use their creative medium to com municate about climate in a moving way that could engage others; a nurse could create a waste-reduction initiative within a medical setting. These efforts all have ripple effects and help to elevate each other.”

In one recent study, people were found to consume less energy if they believed their neighbors did so and personally cared about conservation. Our neighborhoods are the place to take the small, meaningful steps that address the “crisis of connection” underlying rancorous national crises, says New York Times columnist David Brooks. He advocates “radical mutuality”, saying, “Nothing we do, however virtuous, can be accomplished alone.” Through simple actions like having casu

al conversations around town, pitching in to help a family in crisis, bringing a salad to a block party, tutoring a child or holding a civic post, we build the warm relational bonds that strengthen com munities. As we meet others that feel as strongly as we do about our issues, our numbers start building and collective action can unfold.

“Independent of political beliefs, many people can find common values such as wanting safety for their fami lies, a clean environment with clean waterways and recreation in natural environments,” says Easterlin.

That, in turn, helps lower our distress. A recent Yale study found that eco-anx iety was linked to depression only among students not involved in group activities; those engaged in collective action such as being part of an environ mental group, working in a letter-writ ing campaign or going to events or pro tests did not spiral downward emotion ally. “Personal transformation and social transformation happen simultaneously. When you reach out and build commu nity, you nourish yourself,” Brooks says.

As Thunberg has put it: “When I’m taking action, I don’t feel like I am helpless and that things are hopeless, because then I feel like I’m doing everything I can. And that gives me very much hope, especially to see all the other people all around the world, the activists, who are taking action and who are fighting for their present and for their future.”

Health writer Ronica O’Hara can be reached at OHaraRonica@gmail.com.

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12 Quick Fixes for Anxiety

SIMPLE STRATEGIES FOR MENTAL WELL-BEING

by Ronica O’Hara

It is an all-too-human experience to have anxiety—feeling fear or apprehension about what might happen. A survival mechanism for our species, it can easily get out of hand in times of uncertainty, morphing from a timely signal to a crippling, chronic condition. Happily, mental health profes sionals have found many useful anti-anxiety strategies to ease us through difficult moments.

Breathe Deeply

“Controlling your breathing is a fantastic hack to help you move out of a stress/anxiety response state. It’s important to try different breathing techniques to figure out which ones work for you,” says Krista Jordan, Ph.D., a clinical psychol ogist in Austin, Texas. Many options exist such as breathing slowly into the belly; inhaling through the nose for a count of

four, holding the breath for a count of seven and exhaling through the mouth for a count of eight; slowing the breath so that the in and out breaths equalize; and placing mindful attention on our breathing until 10 breaths are completed.

Tap with the Fingers

Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) is a five-minute approach using two fingers to tap on specific points of the head and chest in a certain sequence. In one 5,000-person study, 76 percent of participants found anxiety relief after three EFT ses sions, while only 51 percent experienced relief after 15 ses sions of cognitive behavioral therapy. “EFT sends a calming signal to the brain that reduces your anxiety, which allows for newfound thinking and solutions,” says Colorado Springs therapist Dana C. Avey. Simple instructions can be found online and in YouTube videos.

Write It Off with Journaling

Whether it’s a three-page brain dump in the morning, a frantic scribbling on paper in a stressful moment or a nightly ritual in a bound journal, writing out anxious thoughts helps clarify worries and puts things into perspective, research shows. Seattle spinal surgeon David Hanscom, a chronic pain expert and author of Back in Control, coun

sels writing down in longhand whatever is on the mind using graphic and de scriptive language twice a day for 10 to 30 minutes, and then promptly tearing it up to let the thoughts go.

Meditate Mindfully

Many soothing types of meditation can be tried out on apps like Calm, InsightTimer and Headspace, but the best-studied approach for anxiety is mindfulness, which involves focusing on the breath and body sensations while letting distracting thoughts float by. A 2017 Australian study found that just 10 minutes of daily mindful medi tation can help prevent the mind from wandering and is particularly effective for repetitive, anxious thoughts. “Just be clear that having a constant stream of thoughts is fine and part of the pro cess. It’s sadly ironic that people turn to meditation to help with anxiety, and then get anxious that they are doing it wrong,” advises Jordan.

Move the Body in Nature

According to the Harvard Health Letter, “Just a single bout of exercise can ease anxiety when it strikes ” Studies have proven the value of everything from aerobics to swimming and yoga, and it’s even better if exercising can be done outdoors, because decades of research have found that being amidst the sights, sounds and scents of natural settings lowers anxiety markers. In a recent study, walking without using a smartphone or another electronic de vice in urban settings just two hours a week reduced cortisol levels 21 percent in 20 minutes, “which helps to reduce the medical effects of stress, including chronic inflammation, GI disorders and heart problems,” says Santa Barba ra-based John La Puma, M.D., co-found er of the ChefMD health media brand and creator of MyNatureDose.com, a free, anti-anxiety walking program.

Say a Favorite Prayer

Making a deep spiritual connection—an age-old anxiety solution—can involve

praying or for example, reading psalms, saying a rosary, chanting a mantra or reading sacred scripture. Eric Almeida, a mental health practitioner in Bernard ston, Massachusetts, recommends the Serenity Prayer: “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference.” He says, “It doesn’t matter if you believe in God, the wis dom is useful nonetheless.”

Chill Out

“Sip cold water, hold ice cubes, take a cold shower, blast the AC in your face. Our body and mind are very connected, so if you can’t cool down your mind, cool down your temperature,” advises San Diego-based marriage and family therapist Sarah O’Leary. Some people find the opposite works: taking a long, hot bath infused with essential oils like bergamot, frankincense and lavender.

Get Rooted

Stand barefoot in grass or dirt while breathing deeply or imagine the roots of trees growing from the soles of the feet deep into the earth. “This helps ‘ground’ you or ‘root’ you, and can help you find steadiness rather than getting lost in anxiety,” says mindfulness trainer and author Joy Rains of Bethesda, Maryland.

Soothe with Supplements

Boston integrative medicine physician Sarika Arora, M.D., of the Women’s Health Network, recommends vita mins B5, B6 and B12 to improve cellu lar energy, lower cortisol and restore equilibrium to the nervous system; magnesium to support balanced me tabolism and increase feelings of calm; L-theanine, found in green tea, to lower stress hormone levels; eleuthero (Siberian ginseng) to limit excess corti sol; and vitamin E to support hormone production and stress recovery.

Be with the Anxiety

Tyler Read, the San Francisco-based own er of Personal Trainer Pioneer,

decided to bite the bullet by using the tools of dialectical behavior therapy to put himself into anxiety-producing public places. “Instead of convinc ing myself that I was at peace or not nervous, I accepted that I was nervous. I gave myself permission to shake, sweat and feel nauseous; at times, I acknowledged that I felt like I was dying. And by permitting myself to be nervous, the anxiety decreased over time,” he says.

Move to Music

Relaxing music can be as effective as medication in altering brain func tion, research suggests, especially if the rhythm is 60 beats per minute, which encourages the slow brain waves associated with hypnotic or meditative states. Dancing to upbeat music like no one is watching can also chase worries away. Holis tic psychotherapist Kellie Kirksey, Ph.D., of Youngstown, Ohio, suggests shaking to a favorite song: “Begin by shaking out the hands while holding the thought, ‘I let go.’ If shaking the hands feels good, add in shaking one leg at a time. Shake the whole body while imagining yourself releasing the tension stored in your muscles.”

Bond with an Animal Merely petting a dog or cat releases the feelgood bonding hormone oxytocin into our system. “Animals speak to you in a nonverbal communication, so the inter actions require you to be present and to feel. Both allow for a meditative experi ence that is tremendously impactful for reducing anxiety,” says Shannon Dolan, an Austin, Texas, nutritional therapist and horse owner. “If you don’t have your own pet, look up equine therapy in your area, go to a local dog shelter, spend time with a friend’s dog or travel out to a petting zoo, where you can experience the healing power of animals.”

Health writer Ronica O’Hara can be reached at OHaraRonica@gmail.com

SKIING FOR FITNESS AND PURE FUN TIPS FOR ENJOYING ALPINE AND NORDIC STYLES

by Randy Kambic

hether it’s the thrill of alpine skiing down the side of a high mountain with breathtaking views or the serene pleasure of Nordic cross-country skiing in a nearby park, strapping on skis and swooping off burns lots of calories, makes winter more enjoyable in diverse settings and accommodates all ages and skill levels.

According to the National Ski Areas Association, there were 61 million ski resort visits during the 2021-2022 season, a 3.5 percent increase over the previous season. A survey by Snowsports Industries America found that 4.8 million people cross-country skied on backcountry, public and private trails, and in other areas in the 2019-2020 season. To encourage neophytes to try either style or for skiers wishing to do more, here are some technique, conditioning, fitness and safety tips.

Alpine

Skis have parabolic characteristics: they are made to turn. When the knees are slightly bent forward, the upper legs serve as shock absorbers. “When skiers don’t sufficiently flex their knees and ankles, they can’t adequately pressure the fronts of their skis, which is where the control is,” says Mike Cyr, a ski instructor at Lost Valley, Maine, in SKI maga zine’s July edition.

“ Tip your skis into their uphill edges to turn up the hill until you stop,” advises Deer Valley, Utah, ski instructor Rusty Carr in SKI . The more experienced skiers get, the more they understand how long this will take, based on terrain, speed and snow conditions.

“In addition to keeping strong the more obvious muscles like quads and hamstrings, being sure your glutes are strong and not inhibited by tight hip flexors is key,” says Leigh Damkohler, a certified chiropractic sports physician and a licensed massage therapist, in Yonkers, New York. “Main

taining a strong core and a combination of high-intensity, short-burst training, as well as sustained cardio, will keep your body prepared for skiing.” She recommends cycling, swimming, walking, running, yoga, Barre and Pilates, plus doing “wall sits, lunges or squats that are ideal to work your muscles in a parallel way to when you’re on the slopes.”

Conditions are key. A “fast track”—hard-packed snow— demands sharp, forceful turns to maintain control. Spots on the slope that are shaded may be icy, especially early in the day. Skiing in powder or slushy snow will slow skis down, allowing for subtler turns and carving a path down the slope. Tight-fitting, stiff ski boots are necessary to provide the most direct intention of energy to either ski. Always be alert. To avoid collisions, look before turning and listen for skiers or snowboarders that might be speeding down the slope from behind.

WCross-Country

All that’s needed is a few inches of snow for a recreational playground. Along with snowshoeing, cross-country skiing is a serene and quiet connection with nature. Some hardcore aficionados take multi-day backcountry or mountainous treks along marked trails with overnight stays in lodges, huts and cabins that may provide ski equipment.

Cross-country skiers glide on thinner skis over relatively flat terrain with their weight slightly forward and evenly distributed over both skis, moving in a scissors-like motion akin to an elliptical workout machine or power walking with a long gait. Only the toe in a sneaker-like boot is attached to the ski’s binding, so skiers lift up with each arm, planting a pole and pushing on it, and a fuller gliding motion is attained. Overall, it’s a highly aerobic exercise facilitating an extensive workout for arms and legs.

Many park and recreation departments and sporting goods retailers put on winter festivals that feature the activ ity. Next year’s Slumberland American Birkebeiner, North America’s largest cross-country ski marathon, covering 50 kilometers from Cable to Hayward, Wisconsin, is expected to attract 13,000 participants from throughout the U.S. and overseas, plus 40,000 spectators, on February 25.

“It’s physically gratifying to self-propel yourself on snow,” says Ben Popp, executive director of the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation ( Birkie.com ), which operates the event. “It’s accessible to every effort level—it’s as easy as walking. It’s not grueling—that’s a misconception.”

With either form of skiing, make sure to respect the sun and consume liquids. Surrounded by snow, both direct rays and the glare of indirect sunlight will hit unexposed parts of the face not covered by goggles or sunglasses, so apply sunscreen to those spots beforehand. “Hydration be fore and during your day is going to help prevent muscle cramping and fatigue,” adds Damkohler.

Freelance editor, writer and avid skier Randy Kambic lives in Estero, Florida.

The Adolescent Mental Health Crisis No One Is Talking About

by Dr. Fred Harvey

Each day in America, 2,805 children are arrested, and eight are killed with guns. More than 1.2 million public school children are homeless, and every 47 seconds, a child suffers neglect or abuse, according to the Children’s Defense Fund (2017). Those statistics are likely even worse now in this post-pandemic era. Community building and nurturing programs offered by non-gov ernment organizations are a critical part of the solution.

Adolescent mental illness is a serious problem. A significant proportion of kids, ages 3 to 17, are diagnosed with a mental dis order. 8.7% of this population is diagnosed with ADHD, 7.8% with anxiety, 7% with a behavioral disorder, and 3.4% with depres sion, according to the CDC. Teen suicide

is the leading cause of death for youth, ages 10 to 24. In fact, 8% of high school students report trying to take their own lives in the past 12 months.

Four out of five (80%) teens who attempt suicide have given clear warning signs. All of these conditions can stem from both genetic predisposition and environmental factors. It has been said that malnutrition and hostile parenting or neglect are the main causes for many of these mental health issues to present.

Since these conditions are often the result of nutritional changes and behavioral conditioning, both are also effective in help ing to reduce symptoms and improve func tion. Evidence suggests that ADHD responds well to correcting nutritional imbalances. Nurture-based interventions can also result in significant improvements. Suicide preven tion includes nurture-based intervention and community building.

“Motivating the Teen Spirit” is one such organization that fosters nurture-based inter vention and community building. Lisa Nich ols began this ministry 28 years ago because she had an amazing vision of a world where every teen could access and choose person al empowerment. Through her programs,

NEW

teens can experience self-love, communicate more effectively and make integrity-based decisions.

Lisa Nicols’ son, Jelani Nichols, has taken this to the next level, facilitating in-person retreats for youth who want to experience a transformation. Jelani was a recent guest on my radio show, “The Healthy Steps Show,” during which we talked about these retreats and the adolescent mental health crisis at large.

Experience the results that functional medi cine can provide for your health and quality of life. Call Dr. Harvey’s office, Functional Med icine Florida (formerly known as The Harvey Center), at 941-929-9355 or visit Func tionalMedicineFlorida.com. To listen to the interview with Jelani Nicols, visit HealthyS tepsShow.com. Dr. Fred Harvey is the Medical Director of Functional Medicine Florida. He is quadruple board-certified in Internal Medi cine, Geriatric Medicine, Functional Medicine, and Holistic-Integrative Medicine, specializing in chronic illness recovery and prevention, and defiant aging.

Discovery: Consultation Package

This package of care is designed to give you the best possible start towards achieving your health goals. If you’re ready to commit to a 3-month intensive program, then our team is here to support you

• Initial visit with Dr. Harvey

• Comprehensive evaluation with Complete history review.

• Labs & records review with Dr. Harvey’s analysis.

• A customized preventative wellness plan.

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• 2x office visits or telehealth visits with Dr. Harvey.

• 3x Functional coaching appointments.

• Discounted suppliments.

• 10% OFF select services.

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Journey to Health: Functional Wellness Package

Real transformation is an ongoing journey. Continue your journey towards wellness with us by joining our year-long package. With regular appointments and unlimited messaging on our portal, you and Dr. Harvey get to know each other to keep you on path, plus your dedicated health coaches will support you as you make targeted lifestyle changes.

• Initial visit with Dr. Harvey

• Comprehensive evaluation with Complete history review.

• Labs & records review with Dr. Harvey’s analysis.

• A customized preventative wellness plan.

• 5x office visits or telehealth visits with Dr. Harvey.

• 6x Functional coaching appointments.

• Discounted suppliments.

• 10% OFF select services.

• 1 year HelloHealth membership

Packages subject to change

After earning a journalism de gree from Columbia University, Rachel Jones spent four years as a reporter in Caracas, Venezuela, including a year and a half as a corre spondent for The Associated Press. Her articles have appeared in Time maga zine, The Lancet, The Delacorte Review and Scientific American. In her book, Grief on the Front Lines: Reckoning with Trauma, Grief and Humanity in Modern Medicine, Jones examines the emotional

Rachel Jones on grief in the healthcare front lines

by Sandra Yeyati

challenges that healthcare workers face in hospital emergency rooms, hospices and other front-line settings.

What are your most surprising findings about healthcare heroes?

That they’re humans, just like the rest of us. They can make mistakes. Their work affects them, and they take it home. We have this impression that they’re emo tionally cut off from their work, and this couldn’t be less true. Also, healthcare workers don’t have all the answers. We have this fantasy that if anything goes wrong, we can go to the doctor and have it fixed, but they can’t save every body. Even the concept of a hero—that they’re going to swoop in and save us— does a disservice because it feeds into that false impression.

What are the most pressing challenges in these medical settings?

There’s a stigma where it’s considered weak if you need mental health care, even though you work in a stressful environment dealing with death and traumatic incidents. Many doctors and nurses don’t access mental health ser vices for fear that when they renew their licenses, they’ll have to reveal that and be further investigated—even in states where that’s not the case.

Another problem is the shortage of doctors and nurses that we’re experienc ing and will be experiencing in the next decade as Baby Boomers age. Many places are short-staffed, heightening the

burden on those that remain, which doesn’t help retain people. Patching things with travel nurses for short-term contracts isn’t sustainable, and we don’t have enough new people coming into the system.

How do these challenges affect patient care?

Medical errors increase when health care workers haven’t slept or eaten, which seems to be the standard, especially medical residents who work insane schedules or hospital nurses who don’t have time to take breaks. Also, mental health issues and depression closes them off from colleagues and pa tients, giving them tunnel vision. Then there are issues such as bullying where because of the toxicity of the work environment, maybe doctors and nurses aren’t sharing information in the way that they should be, and that can have a very detrimental impact on patients.

Why is it important for healthcare workers to remain emotionally connected with patients?

Traditionally, doctors and nurses are taught to keep an emotional distance, but that can cause them to compart mentalize and numb out feelings, which then spreads to their personal lives. They may be less able to engage with loved ones and feel disconnected from patients so their work isn’t as meaning ful. Most healthcare workers care about people. They want to help patients and want to feel connected, so that discon

nection is harmful to them and to their patients who don’t feel

or cared for.

At the opposite end, some healthcare workers take on their patients’ suffering, bringing it home and obsessing about it. The idea is to find a balance—remaining open enough to connect, but not seeing yourself as the sole responsible per son for a patient’s recovery. You’re not entirely in control, so realizing there are other forces at play when things go wrong, even if you made a mistake.

What coping strategies can help practitioners?

It’s essential that healthcare administrations provide space and time off for staff to heal and grieve, encouraging staff to speak with chaplains or therapists—normalizing mental health care—and ensuring that therapy is covered by insurance and widely available in safe and confidential settings.

Jonathan Bartels, a nurse in Virginia, came up with The Medical Pause—a moment of silence after a patient dies to honor their life, think about what they meant to you and understand you did everything you could to save their life. Honor walks for organ donors are where everyone lines the hallway and watches as a patient is wheeled into the operat ing room after they’ve died and are going to have their organs transplanted into others. Stepping back for a brief moment of mindfulness is a powerful way to set down emotions, rather than letting them lodge in your body.

Self-care—things like yoga, exercise, journaling, taking walks—and peer support are important, but administrations need to make time for them to happen. At Johns Hopkins Hospital, a project called RISE [Resilience In Stressful Events] allows practitioners to page a peer after a bad outcome. Sometimes, talking to someone like you that has been there themselves can be more helpful than a therapist.

Sandra Yeyati, J.D., is a professional writer and editor. Reach her at SandraYeyati@gmail.com.

MAKING FOREVER CHEMICALS GO AWAY M ANMADE COMPOUNDS POSE LASTING THREAT TO OUR HEALTH

Decades ago, environmental groups urged the banning of what are known as forever chemicals, which have been linked to cancer, compromised immune systems and hormonal imbalanc es, among other health issues. To day, although some of these man-made per- and polyfluo roalkyl substances (PFAS) are being phased out, there’s still much to worry about.

“These chemicals are everywhere–in prod ucts, in our homes, in our drinking water. They’re even coming down in rain,” says Mike Schade, director of the Mind the Store program of Toxic-Free Future (Tox icFreeFuture.org), a national nonprofit based in Seattle. “This is a growing public health crisis.”

A recent Environmental Working Group (ewg.org) report says that 200 million Americans are likely drinking water contaminated with PFAS, and that these chemicals are even more toxic than once thought. In June, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established new health advisories for these chemicals, warning about the toxicity of even lower amounts in water. The EPA is offering $1 billion in grants

by Sheryl DeVore ini

tially and $5 bil lion over time to help remove them from drinking water. Recent research has also shown PFAS detected in sludge used as fertilizer in home gardens. “We need action at all levels of government,” Schade says. “We need states to step up. We need Congress to step up. We need big companies to step up and consumers to take action.”

Origin of PFAS

Since the late 1940s, forever chemicals

have been manufactured for use in products such as nonstick cookware; waterproof, water-resistant and stain-resistant textiles; dental floss; and food packaging, such as microwave popcorn bags and fast-food con tainers. Firefighters also use foam that contains the chemicals. “Pro duction and disposal of these chemicals is leading to the contami nation of drinking water supplies and surface water bodies all across the country,” Schade says. “It’s a huge issue, especial ly in the Great Lakes.”

“We’re talking about more than 9,000 chemicals,” says Susie Dai, Ph.D., a leading PFAS researcher and an associate professor of plant pathology and microbiology at Texas A&M University. “Because they contain one of the strongest chemical bonds, the carbon-fluorine bond, they are very stable. That makes it difficult for the chemicals to break down and easy for them to accumulate in the environment.”

Several years ago, chemical com panies began manufacturing what they deem are less-toxic PFAS. They’re known as either short-chain or alter native PFAS, and include chemicals named GenX and PFBS. “The more that scientists study this very large class of chemicals, the more that scientists find

the replacement chemicals are likely just as toxic,” Schade says. The EPA June health advisories include these two new PFAS.

Meanwhile, as public concern grows, 11 states have banned PFAS in food packaging, and Congress is consider ing a similar ban, says Schade. Whole Foods Market has stopped using the chemicals in food packaging, and Keen, an outdoor shoe brand, has phased out use of PFAS in their products.

In February, Toxic-Free Future sent rain jackets, hiking pants, cloth napkins, bedding and other products marked as stain- or water-resistant to independent labs for analysis. “Seventy-two percent of them contained forever chemicals,” Schade says. Some of these products are manufactured by recreational equip ment company REI, which Toxic-Free is urging consumers to write to, asking it to end the practice.

In July, Columbia Sportswear received petitions with 48,000 signatures from the Natural Resources Defense Council and other environmental organizations urging the company to eliminate PFAS from its products. Although it has begun taking steps, Columbia has yet to set a timeline or define PFAS sustainability standards.

“We can minimize the threat of PFAS contamination by turning off the tap on their use,” says Paloma Paez-Coombe, an associate of Environment Illinois, which participated in the petition drive. “One of the best ways we can do that is by getting a major brand like Columbia Sportswear to publicly lead the way.”

These actions, however, won’t fix the problem of PFAS already in drinking water. Dai and other researchers have created a new bioremediation technolo gy using plant-based material and fungi that could clean places where forever chemicals have been disposed. She hopes a similar concept can be applied to PFAS-contaminated drinking water.

Northwestern University researchers published a paper in August in Science showing PFAS can be destroyed using somewhat harmless chemicals called sodium hydroxide, which is the lye used

to make soap, and dimethyl sulfoxide, a medicine for bladder issues. Dai says that before these new approaches, the only way to break down PFAS was to expose them to high temperatures in an inciner ator, but that is costly and still introduces harmful chemicals into the environment.

Meanwhile, the Delaware-based chemical company Chemours, a spinoff of Dupont that manufactures PFAS, has filed a lawsuit against the EPA saying the agency’s most recent health advisory re garding PFAS is based on flawed science. Chemours is the same company that has

been ordered to pay a $12 million fine to the state of North Carolina after contami nating waterways with PFAS.

Schade surmises, “This is an issue that should be of concern to every American, especially when these chemicals are linked to health problems that are on the rise in our communities.”

Sheryl DeVore has written six books on science, health and nature, as well as health and environmental stories for national and regional publications. Read more at SherylDeVore.wordpress.com.

The Gut-Brain Connection

HOW FOOD AFFECTS OUR MOOD

by Kimberly B. Whittle

July in the journal Molecular Psychology, found “no consistent evidence of there being an association between serotonin and depression, and no support for the hypothesis that depression is caused by lowered serotonin activity or concentrations.”

Michael Gershon, M.D., a Columbia University professor of pathology and cell biology, and author of The Second Brain, has explained to psychologists that “scientists were shocked to learn” that about 90 percent of serotonin is not created in the brain, but is actually produced in the gut and carried from there to the brain, not the other way around. This relationship is called the gut-brain axis.

A recent literature review of 26 studies suggests that imbal ances in gut bacteria can disrupt the two-way communica tion along the gut-brain axis, leading to depression and other psychiatric issues.

Gut Health Equals Mental Health

“Gut health is extremely important for mental health,” says Bhavna Barmi, Ph.D., a senior clinical psychologist, relation ship therapist and founder of the New Delhi-based Happi ness Studio. “The traditional belief that only psychiatry and talk therapy can treat mental health has widened to include lifestyle and food, too.”

We’ve all heard the phrase, “You are what you eat,” but the connection is more than just physical because food impacts our mood, too. During the last decade, there have been an increasing number of studies exploring what’s called the gut-brain axis and the role that microorganisms in the gut play in mental health conditions like anxiety, stress, depression and other disorders.

Depression is a leading cause of disability in the U.S. and worldwide. There are long-held views in medicine that depres sion is caused by imbalances in brain levels of serotonin—the neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating mood and other functions like digestion and sleep. These beliefs resulted in decades of extensive use of antidepressants, most of which boost serotonin in the brain.

However, research by University College London, published in

“The truth is that our food is the primary contributor of the quality and diversity of bacteria in the microbiome,” says Ishi Khosla, a clinical nutritionist and president of the Celiac Society of India. “There is an intricate relationship between the gut and the brain.” Food sensitivities, alcohol and highly processed, refined and sugary foods can lead to a lower diversity of good bacteria and increases in bad bacteria in the gut, which can trigger gut inflammation and unfavorable health conditions.

Most mood-related disorders start with inflammation of the brain as a response to inflammation in the gut. “Certain foods, like gluten, can cause an inflammatory response in the gut. Over time, sensitivities to gluten and other foods can lead to a ‘leaky gut’, an impairment of the gut lining that lets toxins into the bloodstream. Often, if it remains unresolved, it leads to mood-re lated disorders and other chronic health conditions,” says Khosla.

Clinical nutritionists and other practitioners use biochem ical markers and food sensitivity tests to help identify food ingredients that trigger inflammation in patients. However, if a leaky gut is present, a food sensitivity test may not be

Photo Sukjai/AdobeStock.com

very accurate. As Tom O’Bryan, DC, chief health officer of KnoWEwell, explains in his bestselling book The Autoimmune Fix, “When you have a leaky gut, a practitioner may do a 90-food testing panel that comes back sen sitive to 20 or 25 different foods. And then the patient exclaims, ‘Oh my God, that’s everything I eat.’ Well, of course it is, because your im mune system is doing what it is supposed to do—protecting you from toxins. Once the inflammation in the gut is reduced through the elimination of wheat and other offensive foods, and the implementation of a personalized diet and protocol to heal the gut [takes place], the same food testing panel will correctly identify those few ingredients to permanently avoid.”

Mood-Lifting Foods

Kelly Brogan, M.D., a holistic psychiatrist and author of The New York Times bestsellers A Mind of Your Own and Own Your Self, as well as co-editor of the landmark textbook Integrative Therapies for Depression, recommends making three dietary changes to lift mood:

n Eliminate processed foods and food toxins

n Add whole foods, good fats and therapeutic foods

n Add fermented foods

Eating foods that are fresh, whole, simple and organic when available fuels good gut bacteria and eliminates the toxins found in packaged foods such as hydrogenated vegetable oils, preservatives, dyes, emulsifiers, taste enhancers and sugars that can upset the proper balance in the gut. A pow erful mood regulator is the omega-3 fatty acid found in such cold-water fish as salmon and trout or taken as a dietary supplement. These fatty acids regulate neurotransmission and gene expression, act as antioxidants and have potent anti-inflammatory properties. Good fats from pasture-raised meats, wild fish, eggs, nuts, seeds, olive oil, coconut oil

and grass-fed ghee also contribute to mood regulation.

“Resetting the gut through good bacteria in probiotics and feeding the good bacteria with prebiotics is a powerful tool to fight mood disor ders,” says Khosla. Fermented foods such as sauerkraut, pickles (truly fermented, not just cured in vinegar), kimchi and coconut kefir are natural sourc es of probiotics. They are delicious and easy to make at home.

A 2018 University of Toronto study in the World Journal of Psychiatry identified 12 nutrients to prevent and treat depressive disorders and found that the following foods had the highest levels of those beneficial nutrients: bivalves such as oysters and mussels; various sea foods such as octopus, crab and tuna; organ meats; leafy greens; lettuces; fresh herbs; peppers; and cruciferous vegetables such as cauli flower and broccoli.

Choosing what to eat is complex and affected by culture, cost, environment and taste preferences. Dietary changes can be difficult and take time, and those suffering from mood swings, depression or anxiety have additional challenges in making changes. Nutritionists advise starting small by incor porating one or two foods rich in beneficial nutrients and eliminating a highly processed or packaged food or two. Focus on incorporating a rainbow of red, yellow, orange and green foods into meals. “Food therapy to improve mood is inexpensive, free of side effects and can begin to show results within days,” says Khosla.

In view of the gut-brain axis, says Barmi, “It is imperative that from this point on, nutritionists, psychiatrists and psycho therapists work together for holistic care of the client to lead to maximum benefit.”

Kimberly B. Whittle is the CEO of KnoWEwell, the Regenera tive Whole Health Hub online solution for health and well-be ing. Visit KnoWEwell.com.

kids

The Colors of Healing

ART THERAPY FOR KIDS

by Marlaina Donato

doodling and drawing, finger painting or taking a photograph can help kids bounce back more easily from bullying or fam ily conflicts, including divorce. Splashing color on a canvas or throwing pottery has been shown to enhance fine motor skills, increase attention spans and instill a sense of accom plishment. For those that are not neurotypical, engaging in guided artistic expression can foster sensory integration and promote positive social interaction.

Opening a brand-new box of crayons or making a happy mess with homemade salt dough can provide hours of fun for most kids, but art thera py—based in a clinical setting—can help children achieve emotional equilibrium, cultivate social skills and increase their capacity for learning. Dipping a brush into bright col ors or creating a collage under the guidance of a qualified therapist can help a child express what is beyond spoken language: unprocessed trauma, emotional and physical pain or the multilevel challenges of autism spectrum disorder.

“Art therapy is completely different from arts and crafts, or even teaching a child how to do art. The idea behind art therapy is that not everyone attending therapy is able to talk about what is going on inside of them,” says Robyn Spodek-Schindler, owner of Paint the Stars Art Therapy, in Manalapan, New Jersey.

Art and the Nervous System

According to 2018 research published in the Journal of Applied Psychology & Behavioral Science, painting-based art therapy has been effective in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety in preschool-aged children. Dipping into the unconscious wellspring of creative impulse through

“I have worked with children who have lost a parent, experienced abuse, abandonment, consequences of addic tion in the family, COVID [-19] anxiety and autism spectrum disorders,” says Andrea Davis, founder and CEO of Dallas Art Therapy, in Richardson, Texas. “Many times, the body is expressing the trauma in the form of sleep disturbance, eating changes, anxiety, depression and panic attacks, to name a few. Art-making bypasses the brain’s trauma response. The art therapist is trained to support the person in the process of creation and allows the person to utilize their other senses to express themselves.”

Celeste Wade, an art psychotherapist at the Child and Fami ly Art Therapy Center, in Haverford, Pennsylvania, emphasizes that emotional processing cannot occur when an individual is on the alert for potential danger, a physiological response from an overstimulated amygdala. “Trauma needs to be pro cessed for the client to gain mastery and function in a calm state versus fight, flight or freeze. Art making can also activate this area of the brain and have calming effects to counteract trauma responses,” she says.

Willingness, Not Talent

The art therapist provides a nourishing presence without art instruction or critiquing, and sessions can be private, in a group setting or include family members. Conversation, com bined with art making, is typical in any art therapy session. Schindler stresses that creating pretty images is not the goal of an art therapy session and dispels the common assumption that “the person attending art therapy needs to have either a talent in art or an interest in art. They just need the willingness to participate in a session.” Some children see immediate

Sukjai

benefits, while others realize emotional progress after several sessions.

Art therapy, sometimes in conjunction with other modalities, not only gives children a voice, but provides them with an opportunity to stretch their wings. Group therapy, says Davis, “can look like working together to create a collaborative mural. In the process, tak ing turns, hearing one another’s ideas, sharing materials, respecting bound aries and each other’s art becomes an important part of meeting goals.”

During an initial art therapy assess ment, Wade might ask a client to draw a family of animals, which creates an opportunity “for the client to share about their own family dynamics in a safe way. If the client has experienced any type of familial trauma and I were to present the same directive as, ‘draw you and your family doing something,’ the child may be more hesitant or may shut down.”

In a world that can be overwhelming, self-expression through art can give a young person a safe harbor. Schin dler accentuates human rapport in the clinical setting, saying, “Art, much like play, is a universal communication tool for children. Sometimes you just feel better when creating and sharing with a trusted person.”

Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.

Caregiving Companions

THE MANY BENEFITS OF SERVICE, THERAPY AND EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS

by Karen Shaw Becker

Assistance Animals

As defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, an assistance animal is “any animal that works, provides assistance or performs tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability, or provides emotional support that alleviates one or more identified symptoms or effects of a per son’s disability.” If certain conditions are met, a person may be entitled to keep an assistance animal in a housing facility that would otherwise prohibit animals.

Service Animals

Animals offer support to humans in innumerable ways, acting as loyal companions, providing soothing therapy and emotional support, and being attentive service animals for invaluable medical assistance. As ani mals increasingly take on these roles in public spaces, it is necessary to under stand what each category offers and the type of access each is given.

“Some people misrepresent their animals as assistance animals in order to bring them to places where pets are not allowed, to avoid fees or out of a misunderstanding of the animal’s role,” states the American Veterinary Medical Association (avma.org). It points out that although service, therapy and emotional support animals are sometimes referred to interchangeably, they are distinct cat egories, each with its own definition.

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 defines a service animal as “any dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intel lectual or other mental disability.” Aside from miniature horses, no other species are included.

Service animals perform such tasks as helping with navigation, pulling a wheelchair, assisting during a seizure, providing protection or rescue work, alerting a person to allergens and interrupting impulsive or destructive behavior.

Emotional Support Animals

Emotional support animals (ESA), ac cording to the Fair Housing Act and the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), can be any species. Both laws require a disabil ity-related need and a recommendation

by a medical or mental health profes sional. ESAs do not have to be trained to perform a particular task and may be permitted in otherwise banned housing facilities. Some international airlines allow them to travel at no extra cost.

As of January 2021, following a U.S. Department of Transportation rule-tight ening, virtually no American domestic airline allows ESAs to fly free. (Small dogs can still be flown by passengers paying extra.)

Therapy Animals

According to the ACAA, therapy animals may take part in animal-assisted inter ventions when there’s a “goal-directed intervention in which an animal meeting specific criteria is an integral part of the treatment process.” Animal-assisted thera py may involve dogs, cats, horses, llamas, pigs and other species, typically in hospi tals, schools and rehabilitation centers.

Why They Can Be Controversial

While service animals are highly trained and can even receive certifications as psychiatric service dogs, ESAs are often pets that help a person to cope with dai ly life or situations they may otherwise find intolerable, such as being in stores, restaurants, museums and on airline flights and other public transportation.

Controversy has arisen when some people have pushed the line, claiming their pet is necessary for emotional sup port, but in reality, are just there to enjoy access benefits. Yet, in a survey of more than 500 Americans, both service dogs

and emotional support dogs were viewed favorably, and most participants reported feeling that the majority of people with such dogs were not taking advantage of the system.

The Many Benefits

There is seemingly no end to the emotional, physical and mental benefits dogs offer to humans. Regular visits with therapy dogs may improve the well-being of people seek ing addiction and mental health treatment. Animal-assisted interventions have been used among Canada’s correctional population, for which mental health, addictions and trauma histories are major concerns.

Research published in the journal Anthrozoös found that animal-assisted therapy decreased the need for pain medication in people receiving joint replace ment therapy. Studies by the Delta Society suggests hold ing, stroking or simply seeing an animal may lower blood pressure while lessening feelings of hostility and increasing self-esteem. For children, service dogs can be trained to de tect the scent of allergens like peanuts or gluten in food and even provide comfort to them and adult witnesses in court rooms.

Be aware that out in public, certain rules of etiquette apply. Service dogs, in particular, should never be approached, talked to or touched unless permission is granted by the dog’s handler. And take no offense if the handler says no. Distracting a work ing dog can result in potential harm to the handler and may interfere with the dog’s focus and ability to follow potentially life-saving commands or cues.

Veterinarian Karen Shaw Becker, DVM, has spent her care er empowering animal guardians to make knowledgeable decisions to extend the life and well-being of their animals.

calendar of events

NOTE: All calendar events must be received via email by the 12th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Email publisher@nasrq.com for guidelines. No phone calls or faxes, please. Visit nasrq.com to submit online.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3

Light Language Healing Circle - 7-9pm. Join Reiki Master and certified Reconnective Healer JoAnn Cooke to learn what this is all about, and how to activate this powerful energy. Light Language is the universal language of love, communicated via spoken word, song, dance, written symbol and other actions. It bypasses the logical brain and is interpreted through the heart. Whether you are familiar with Light Language or this is new to you, this healing circle will benefit all. Each one will experience a light language healing communication. $20 donation requested. Attendance limited to 6, reservations 509-520-0377. We offer separated seating with masks optional. Center for Metaphysical Fellowship, 3231 Gulf Gate Drive, Suite 204, Sarasota, CMFSarasota.org, Facebook is: CMF of Sarasota.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4

Sound Immersion Meditation with Sandra and Michael Katala - 6:30-7:30pm. Various sound techniques will be used to cleanse negative energies and create space to align the body on an emotional, physical, mental and spiritual levels. This meditation will be done off the floor and in the air! You will be cocooned in Aerial Hammocks for an ethereal experience. $25/pp. Palm Studio and Boutique, 441 W. Dearborn Street Englewood, 941-208-5568, PalmStudioEnglewood.com.

Gallery by Advanced Student Mediums - 7-9pm. On this night a number of our advanced student mediums will present a SPIRIT MESSAGES GALLERY, supported by two CMF Certified Mediums. Each attendee will have the opportunity to receive information from their spirit loved ones or guides, by the different styles of each student. Come and enjoy this informative evening. A $15 donation is requested. No reservations needed. We offer separated seating with masks optional. Center for Metaphysical Fellowship, 3231 Gulf Gate Drive, Suite 204, Sarasota, 941-266-8435, CMFSarasota. org, Facebook is: CMF of Sarasota.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6

Universal Service - 10:30am. With Rev. Chris Akbar and Jessi Miller, “ Beloved Ear Tree.” Outdoor healing service ceremony with the element for our Beloved Ear Tree and all relations after the Hurricane. We will combine elements of Zirat, Universal worship and the Healing service for all beings in loving balance, health and wellness. In person at Rising Tide, 5102 Swift Rd. Sarasota and on Zoom. Go to Zoom.us. Input: Meeting ID: 830 1791 6524/ Passcode: RTI2021. This weekly egalitarian service celebrates all of humanity’s religions on a single altar. RisingTideInternational. org. For info Rev. Zan, 941-922-7839.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9

Shamanic Journeying – 7-9pm. Conducted by well-known psychic medium, teacher, lecturer, and winner of the Sarasota psychic award challenge Diana Mier. Shamanic Journeying is a rich and rewarding event that deepens your ability to connect with Spirit and dwellers in other dimensions, and access information and energies to awaken and restore wholeness. Diana has been journeying for about 20 years and will also drum for the class. Each attendee will bring their own powerful energies to this exceptional connection to the Divine Creator. You may sit in a chair or bring a pillow and blanket for carpet space. Limited to 12. Call or text Diana for your space 941-416-1622. $25 donation requested. We offer separated seating with masks optional. Center for Metaphysical Fellowship, 3231 Gulf Gate Drive, Suite 204, Sarasota, CMFSarasota. org, Facebook is: CMF of Sarasota.

Sound Bath - 7-8pm. OM Singing Bowl Sound Baths help you reach a deepened state of meditation more easily, while being nurtured in a group energy that is rooted in unconditional love. Besides the enhanced meditation effects, your body will also absorb the beautiful, powerful crystalline vibrations of crystal singing bowls & other gentle sound therapy instruments, rich in harmonic overtones. The OM Shoppe 4801 S. Tamiami Tr #5, Sarasota, 941-706-3257, TheOmShoppeandSpa.com.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10

It’s a Call-In Show! ASK CHEF JUDI! - 6:30pm via Zoom. FREE open forum & open to the public. Please join us for this sure-to-be delicious Special Holiday Episode of ASK CHEF JUDI. That’s right, TV’s Chef Judi, along with vegan expert Lori Rodgers, will be here to answer your cooking questions. Now is the time to find out about gluten free options or ask how you can spice up your turkey this year, or maybe you’d like to share your favorite recipe, Thanksgiving memory or family tradition! Sign up for the free Zoom link at AskChefJudi. com. For more info on this free open to the public event, call 941-830-3040.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11

11:11 Special Light Transmission Ceremony with Mirabai Devi - 7-8:30pm. In this hourand-a-half evening event, you will experience an awakening ceremony through the 11:11 portal and join Mirabai in a Divine Light Transmission. You will also learn about the life, work, and teachings of a contemporary and influential Divine Mother and mystic. Mirabai has not been to the Cosmic Center since 2020 and brings to this presentation her profound focus on Awakening and Ascension. $25. To Register go to MirabaiDevi.SplashThat. com. Location: The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadow Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333,CCOSL.com.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12

Your Awakening and Ascension - A Spiritual Workshop - 2-5pm. Mirabai Devi returns to Sarasota and the Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light to deliver a three-hour experiential workshop that is all about how to accelerate your Awakening and Ascension. We all have karmic, familial, and conditional inheritances that may still be in the way of our being able to awaken fully and therefore support others to do so as well. In this workshop, you will be able to experience prayers and practices, techniques and tools, and the power of the Divine Light so you can miraculously transform pain to Joy, suffering to Peace, fear to Love. You will have this material for your lifelong journey. Come and experience a personal transformation, be held in the Light and immerse yourself in the Love and Divine Healing from a Divine Mother, Mirabai Devi. $55. To register go to MirabaiDevi.SplashThat. com. Location: The Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadow Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13

Universal Service - 10:30am. With Rev. Liana Salima Rael, “On Kindness and Happiness” Nov. 13 is World Kindness Day. It may be you never knew that there is a worldwide day for remembering kindness in our daily lives. How do we not just know this, but actually live it? Is it the essential central ingredient/ virtue/ prescription for happiness? In person at Rising Tide, 5102 Swift Rd. Sarasota on Zoom. Go to Zoom.us. Input: Meeting ID: 830 1791 6524 / Passcode: RTI2021. This weekly egalitarian service celebrates all of humanity’s religions on a single altar. RisingTideInternational.org. For info Rev. Zan, 941-922-7839.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18

Floating Crystal Bowl Concert with Robert Austin - 6:30-7:30pm. Stimulate and restore the harmony between the physical and spiritual planes of the body, while suspended in an Aerial Hammock. Crystal Bowl Energy healing through harmonic sounds and crystals resonates with the body balancing the chakras and re-energize the auric field. The powerful vibrations of sound penetrates the body which consists of approximately 70% water and gives a gentle internal massage to all your cells. Let the positive vibrations of the bowls integrate into your body and let your spirit soar! $25/pp. Palm Studio and Boutique, 441 W. Dearborn Street Englewood, 941-208-5568, PalmStudioEnglewood.com.

Journey to Meet the Christ Consciousness7-9pm. Marina Shafir will take the group on a guided journey while each one relaxes on a mat they have brought with them, or seated in an available chair. The process helps each one to meet their higher self. So, come to relax and to expand your consciousness. A discussion period will follow, and Marina will answer any questions to clarify her methods for helping participants to realize the benefits of following her process for their continued development. $20 donation is requested. We offer separated seating and masks optional. Reservations needed, call or text 941-266-1696. Center for Metaphysical Fellowship, 3231 Gulf Gate Drive, Suite 204, Sarasota, CMFSarasota.org, Facebook is: CMF of Sarasota.

NOVEMBER 19

Soul Connection Psychic Fair 11am- 4pm. Come join us for a personal reading using Tarot and Oracle cards and various other modalities of spiritual connection, plus Crystal Bowl Healings with messages from guides or loved ones. We also offer Astrology and Numerology readings. Colleen Panebianco is offering many Sauv’e natural, handmade essential oil products. $20/15 min. readings or healings. We offer separated seating with masks optional. No reservations needed. Center for Metaphysical Fellowship, 3231 Gulf Gate Drive, Suite 204, Sarasota, 941-586-4797, CMFSarasota. org, Facebook is: CMF of Sarasota.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20

Universal Service - 10:30am. With Rev. Zan Benham, “Forgiving and Thanksgiving.” It is the season for Giving. Giving relates to gratitude, and also forgiveness. When we are able to forgive, we are able to better give of ourselves and our gratitude is able to express itself fully. In person at Rising Tide, 5102 Swift Rd. Sarasota and on Zoom. Go to Zoom.us. Input: Meeting ID: 830 1791 6524 / Passcode: RTI2021. This weekly egalitarian service celebrates all of humanity’s religions on a single altar. RisingTideInternational.org. For info Rev. Zan, 941-922-7839.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 23

Animal Intuitive (among the living) - 7-9pm. Conducted by Stacey Ericson. Do you ever wonder what your pet or the squirrels outside are trying to communicate to you? Each of us has our own way of understanding the information and wisdom that animals are trying to help us receive. Come to learn how you can receive this information. Bring a picture of your favorite living pet or outdoor animal with the eyes showing. We will exchange pics of the animals and give readings by the end of the class. Everyone can do it! It’s so much fun to learn what these beings have to say! $20 donation is requested. We offer separated seating with masks optional. Reservations, please call or text 941-2325323. Center for Metaphysical Fellowship, 3231 Gulf Gate Drive, Suite 204, Sarasota, CMFSarasota. org, Facebook is: CMF of Sarasota.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 26

The OM Shoppe & Spa Anniversary Celebration - 11am-4pm. This month, The OM Shoppe & Spa celebrates nine years at its current location. As a way to say thank you to our loyal customers and community, we invite you to celebrate with us! Join us at our store during business hours for positive vibes and good times! Tune up your happy with live sound and energy practitioners and demonstrations, inspiring raffle prizes, and uplifting service offerings. If that wasn’t enough, all regular priced items in the store will be 10% off! The OM Shoppe 4801 S. Tamiami Tr #5, Sarasota, 941-706-3257, TheOmShoppeandSpa.com.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 27

Thanksgiving Day Reconsidered 10:30am. Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Charlotte County (UUFCC), guest speaker, Rev. Bob Murphy will be presenting «Thanksgiving Day Reconsidered” at UUFCC in Port Charlotte. In a year of hurricanes and other disasters, what should Unitarian Universalists celebrate during the American Thanksgiving Day season? Rev Murphy spends his time dedicated to supporting smaller congregations in Florida, working as a community minister for a just economy, and supporting environmental justice causes. All welcome! 1532 Forrest Nelson Blvd, Port Charlotte, 941-627-4303, UUFCC.org.

Universal Service - 10:30am. With Rev. Karen Parvati Miki, “So Precious.” Exploring small heart-opening moments. In person at Rising Tide, 5102 Swift Rd. Sarasota and on Zoom. Go to Zoom.us. Input: Meeting ID: 830 1791 6524 / Passcode: RTI2021. This weekly egalitarian service celebrates all of humanity’s religions on a single altar. RisingTideInternational.org. For info Rev. Zan, 941-922-7839

Sound Journey - 3pm. Besides having a guided imagery and hypnosis induction (performed by our certified clinical hypnotherapist), Sound Journeys at the OM are very intentionally composed to take you deep into an exploration of your inner world. A group of experienced sound therapy practitioners and professional musicians use various rhythmic and melodic elements designed to lower your brainwaves into a theta state and keep you in a light trance. Their musical expertise inspires a whole voyage of imagery and invites resolution as they bring you back to conscious waking reality. Each composition is based on ancient shamanic techniques that have been used for centuries and updated with the latest in mind-body and neuroscience research. With the powerful intention of unconditional love, guided imagery, and waves of sonic channeling, you will be gently entrained into a state of deep calm, setting the tone for the expansion of consciousness, and triggering the body’s relaxation response and self-healing capacity. The OM Shoppe 4801 S. Tamiami Tr #5, Sarasota, 941-706-3257, TheOmShoppeandSpa.com.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 28

Singing Crystal Bowls for Personal Wellness Series - 3-5pm. During each two-hour class you will receive instruction for 45 minutes and enjoy a deeply relaxing sound bath experience for the additional 20 minutes. This allows your subconscious mind to process all that you are learning and makes memory retention easier. You will receive teaching materials with each class and The OM Shoppe provides you the use of a Quartz Crystal Singing Bowl. You simply bring yourself and the rest is taken care of for you. We ask that you do not bring your personal singing bowl, this is so we can ensure a harmonic experience when practicing at The OM Shoppe. The OM Shoppe 4801 S. Tamiami Tr #5, Sarasota, 941706-3257, TheOmShoppeandSpa.com.

classifieds

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.

SWEDISH MASSAGE. A full body relaxation massage that focuses on light to firm pressure to ease muscle tightness. Essential oils, hot stones, and a sugar back scrub are included. Call for appt. 941-302-1140. Nancy Evans Massage, 115 N. Tamiami Trail, STE 9, Nokomis. MA 66427

NURSE/OFFICE MANAGER FOR STEM CELL ORTHOPEDIC OFFICE. Part or full time. Exciting opportunity. Salary commen surate with experience and skill set. Assists procedures, marketing and running the office. Positive, fun environment. Must be mature, a team player and a self-starter. Good com munication and organizational skills a must. Please reply RegenOrtho@gmail.com or text 941-376-3007.

plan ahead

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4

Universal Service - 10:30am. With Rev. Tara Anne Muir, “Advent: the Arrival” The coming of a time of waiting and preparation. A closer look at the tradition and symbols of this season. In person at Rising Tide, 5102 Swift Rd. Sarasota and on Zoom. Go to Zoom.us. Input: Meeting ID: 830 1791 6524 / Passcode: RTI2021. This weekly egalitarian service celebrates all of humanity’s religions on a single altar. RisingTideInternational.org. For info Rev. Zan, 941-922-7839

DECEMBER 10-30, (no show December 12, 24, 25)

Discover Sarasota Tours - Celebrate the holidays with your family onboard Dolly the Trolley. This NEW 75-minute holiday light and musical tour features a Christmas Carol sing-along, and musical performances by a cast of local performers: Kaylene McCaw, Debbie White, Liz Pascoe, Ren Pearson and Jason Ellis and a downtown holiday light tour. This special tour is filled with Sarasota Christmas stories, jokes, trivia, and heartfelt holiday cheer. Before boarding, everyone is invited to get into the holiday spirit with FREE Beer/Wine or Fizzy Punch (with champagne for the adults) while browsing through the Trolley Cottage Gift Shop full of fun holiday gifts and other treasures. Holiday outfits encouraged. This show is intended for Adults (12+) and Children (3-11). Ticket includes FREE Parking. Discover Sarasota Tours, 1826 4th Street, Sarasota, 941-2609818. Book online at DiscoverSarasotaTours.com, or email Info@DiscoverSarasotaTours.com.

Sarasota/Manatee

www.nasrq.com

on going events

sunday

OM Shamanic Sound Journeys with Resonance4th Sunday of every month. Sold out for over 2 years! You will experience a blend of, shamanic drumming, rhythm, crystal singing bowls, rattles, tuning forks, vocal toning, electric violin and more in a coordinated and orchestrated fashion to help improve participants well-being. Clinical Hypnotherapist Beth A Snyder begins your journey by gently inducing a hypnotic state. Then your journey into sound begins. Consider your intention now. Tickets: TheOmShoppeandSpa. com or call 941-706-3257. The OM Shoppe 4801 S. Tamiami Tr #5 Sarasota.

Meadows Farmers Market - 10am-2pm. Enjoy organic and local farm produce, one-of-a-kind items from local entrepreneurs and artisans, a variety of delicious foods all supporting wellness and the local economy. In the Meadows Shopping Village parking lot in front of 5041 Ringwood Meadow - Bldg G-2, Sarasota. For more information, please call 941-3157773, MeadowsFarmersMarket.com.

Unity of Sarasota - 10-10:15 am - Meditation, Celebration Service - 10:30- 11:45am. In person and livestream at UnityofSarasota.org under the services tab. The Sunday Celebration service includes a rele vant talk and lively music. Youth Ministry Program, 10:30-11:45am. 3023 Proctor Rd., Sarasota, 941-9553301, UnityOfSarasota.org.

Sunday Service at CMF - 10:30am. At each Sunday morning service, we are offering spiritual healing, an inspirational talk, messages from spirit, special music and an ever-important environment of fellowship. Leave refreshed and inspired to start the new week. We feature a variety of speakers and spirit message bearers throughout the year. We offer separated seating with masks optional. Center for Metaphysical Fellowship, 3231 Gulf Gate Dr., Suite 204, Sarasota, 941-2668435, CMFsarasota.org, Facebook: CMF of Sarasota.

Cosmic Center Sunday Sabbath Services - 10:30am. In person and on Zoom. Join our rotation of reverends every Sunday as we connect with our Family of Light. 1st Sunday - Open Heart Divine Healing Service with Rev. Sharon-Elizabeth (Baba Sharone). 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! 2nd Sun day - 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. 3rd Sunday - with Rev. Robin Richardson who will bring little known wisdom and answers from her vast knowledge of Ancient Wisdom from Ancient writings from all over the world. A new topic each Sunday. 4th Sunday - Ecstatic Kabbalah with Rev. Annie Eng - Anchored in Kabbalah Tree of Life Ceremony and Wisdom. 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, 941371-9333, CCOSL.com.

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Charlotte County -10:30am. Sunday morning service. We are a lay-led fellowship providing meaningful worship. We provide a welcoming space and time to explore what we find worthy in a variety of faith experiences. This month’s theme is change. Check the website for Sunday’s speaker and topic - guest ministers, community folks, and members. Bring your whole self: your full identity, your questioning mind, and your expansive heart to 1532 Forrest Nelson Blvd in Port Charlotte or visit UUFCC.org.

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.

Sunday Morning Celebration Service, Zoom Live - 11am. 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, medi tation, a talk and an affirmation. Sarasota Center of Light, 852 S Tuttle Ave. 941-953-6620, or after hours 727-492-2977, SarasotaCenterOfLight.com.

Lightness of Walking – 1-3pm, Oct 2 – Nov 13. Online! Join Bonnie Kissam M.A., Feldenkrais® Practitioner for her 6-week Lightness of Walking Program. During this class, you learn how to re-de sign your ABCs for walking. Past attendees have reported pure amazement at how much lighter and more efficient their balance and walk can be when they use the Lightness of Walking tools to realign, re-balance, and re-coordinate. Registration, receive your free E-Book and more info at LightnessOf Walking.com, 941-360-2248.

Yoga and Temple Fusion Bellydance Class with Akasha - 7-8:30pm. Total beginners, all bodies and genders welcome. If you’re supportive of your other dancers, then we’d love to have you. Awaken The Divine Feminine within and learn to dance like a Goddess! This powerful form weaves in sacred dances from around the world along with sacred ge ometry, mudras (hand gestures) and energy healing. Pre-registration required. $20. To register call 941312-5630 or go to WildGingerApothecary.as.me/ Yoga-Temple-Fusion. Wild Ginger Apothecary, 6557 Superior Avenue, Sarasota.

Metaphysical Classes and Healing Circle with Wendy M.Ed. - Rev. Wendy, M. Ed. (speaker, dows er, medium, 25+ years) is well known for her lectures in New England. Topics to be discussed: Psychic Skills, Dowsing, Shamanism and much more. $3 donation. Also doing workshops and one-hour lec tures. Location: Clark and Approach/Gant, Sarasota. More info, 860-966-5351, Alohas6@Yahoo.com.

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

Cosmic Center Tai Chi - 1pm. With Reuben Fernan dez. The main principle of tai chi is internal relax ation. Tai Chi is known as an internal martial art. The power and energy do not depend on muscle power, strength or speed, rather power comes from internal relaxation and release of Chi. In this class we will focus on developing a tai chi body, the basic warm up exercises, the Chen form, as well as Chi Gung for its health benefits. In person, $10/class. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows - Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.

Free Kids Yoga and Mindfulness Through New Year’s - 5:15-6pm. We want to offer kids a safe space to tune in to their mind, body and soul. After the hurricane and missing so much school and their friends and experiencing fear we hope to help these kids get back on track mentally, emotionally and physically. Free. Palm Studio and Boutique, 441 W. Dearborn Street Englewood, 941-208-5568, PalmStudioEnglewood.com.

Feldenkrais with Bonnie K - 5:45pm. Online! Awareness Through Movement classes: Lessons (in chairs/on floor) are designed to quiet non-work ing habitual patterns, invite you into a process for learning and offer experiences for more efficient movement. Ongoing classes - movement lessons w/replays. More info, 941-360-2248. Feldenkrai sInSarasota.com. Register with Bonnie at: Felden kraisinSarasota.com/Sarasota-Classes-Feldenkrais/ Unity of Sarasota Pub Theology - 6:30-8pm, the 2nd Mon. of the month. With Rev. Amy Zehe. Bring your Spiritual questions. We are meeting at the Olive Garden in the Landings. 941-955-3301, UnityOfSarasota.org.

Cosmic Center Anchoring Light Transmission Meditation 6:45pm. With Baba Sharone. A call to all Lightworkers. The Anchoring Light Trans mission 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, guid ance 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, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.

Meditative Sound Bath/ Sound Healing Journey - 7pm. Submerge yourself in sound with Rebecca Owen. Guided mindful meditation will help ground and center you so you can allow the magic to hap pen. Gentle sounds of Koshi and Kenari will play alongside powerful healing vibrations of crystal and Tibetan bowls. Dreamlike sounds of bar chimes and crystal pyramids will play beside the healing heart beat of the drum. This is a 1-hour electric, meditative and healing sound experience just for you. Yoga mats are provided, feel free to bring a blanket, bolster, eye pillow or anything you need to be comfortable. Please arrive 10-15 minutes early - no late entry can be permitted. $25. Private group and one on one sessions and events are available. Reservations needed, call 941-927-2278. Mandala Med Spa and Yoga Shala, 1715 Stickney Point Drive, Sarasota. Learning to Connect Classes at CMF 7-9pm. Join Susan Houliston and/or experienced guest instructors every Monday & Tuesday to learn techniques for connecting with Spirit. Students are given the opportunity to practice lessons to devel op their skills while exploring various modalities. $15 donation is requested. Please refer to the CMF website CMFSarasota.org for the description of the programs offered for each weekly class. We offer separated seating with masks optional. Reservations needed, so call or text Susan at 941-266-1696. Cen ter for Metaphysical Fellowship, 3231 Gulf Gate Drive, Suite 204, Sarasota.

tuesday

Energetic Integration Sessions - Movement & Breathwork with Vicki Online. Vicki’s experience helping people become more embodied includes her lifelong career as a dancer, dance teacher, Pi lates and GYROTONIC tm movement trainer. As a Kundalini yoga teacher, she focuses on using deep breathwork to guide you through alignment/move ment exercises, done on a mat and sitting upright, to release imbalances but guide your innate body, mind and spirit toward total energetic re-integration. Her innate eye and guidance of breath and structural connections will help you to strengthen all your body systems, extend your breath capacity, and re-set your nervous system. You will find yourself significantly more grounded, balanced, aligned, strong and peaceful! Can be done as a group class with one zoom link. Call to book your time & Zoom link info, 941-718-0847.

Cosmic Center Restorative Stretching 12:15pm. With Danielle Nance. Learn how to gently relax the muscles, loosen the joints, strengthen the tendons and ligaments, as well as fortify the bones. The goal of this special stretching technique is to move the Qi (life force energy), enhance circulation, and ease the body into a nourishing state of relaxation and wellbeing. In Person, $10/class. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows - Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.

Free Reiki Healing & Meditation Circle - 6:158:15pm. Join us at for an unforgettable Inspirational Meditative & Healing experience with 2 Reiki Mas ters: Victoria & Lorald (40+ yrs of combined pro experience). Victoria is a traditional Reiki Master/ teacher for 30+ yrs., clinical hypnotherapist, master of NLP, pranic & theta healer, medical intuitive and

Sarasota/Manatee

inspirational speaker. Release stress & walk away energized. You’ll be glad you did! Love Offerings accepted. In the Sarasota- Bradenton area, must RSVP for location each week, text preferred: 702482-3719. Also offering Reiki II Degree training on Nov 13th & 14th in Bayshore Gardens. MUST have proof of Reiki I to qualify. For details & full Curricu lum, visit TransformVegas.com/Events. To Register, Call/text 702-482-3719. TransformVegas.com.

wednesday

Feldenkrais with Bonnie K - 11am. Online! Aware ness 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. On going classes - movement lessons w/replays. More info, 941-360-2248. FeldenkraisInSarasota.com Register with Bonnie at: FeldenkraisinSarasota. com/Sarasota-Classes-Feldenkrais/

Angel Ministries FREE Reiki Healing Clinic4-6pm. Come and join us for a Free Reiki Energy Healing. Reiki is an energy healing technique that promotes relaxation, reduces stress and anxiety through gentle touch. Reiki practitioners use their hands to deliver energy to your body, improving the flow and balance of your energy to support healing. Love Offerings welcome. Angel Ministries, 2269 Tamiami S., Venice, 941-492-4995, RevPatCharn ley@gmail.com, AngelMinistriesFL.org.

Free Kids Yoga and Mindfulness Through New Year’s - 5:15-6pm. We want to offer kids a safe space to tune in to their mind, body and soul. After the hurricane and missing so much school and their friends and experiencing fear we hope to help these kids get back on track mentally, emotionally and physically. Free. Palm Studio and Boutique, 441 W. Dearborn Street Englewood, 941-208-5568, PalmStudioEnglewood.com.

Cosmic Center Enoch Study Group - 7pm. With Kim Converse. Join Enoch Study Group facilitator Kim Converse for the study of “Key 405 - We Are The Family” written by Dr. James Hurtak. With this teaching we begin to understand how we are part of a greater cosmic family that is multi-dimensional in reality and function. The book also speaks about how each soul is part of the family of God and we are now being introduced to our cosmic brothers and sisters as well as our inheritance as we realize planet earth is but a mere steppingstone to eternal life in the greater universe. Online Zoom only, $5/class. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows - Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.

Intuitive Practice Circle - 7pm.Come join our new weekly group for those interested in deepening their psychic abilities, healing gifts and are looking for practice space. Topics may include Card Divination/ Tarot/Oracle, Pendulums, Chakras, Clair Senses, Dreams, Astral Traveling, Numerology, Psychom etry, Channeling, Past Lives, Guardian Angels, Auto-writing, and more. You must pre-register at WildGingerApothecary.com to attend. Visit us at Wild Ginger Apothecary 6557 Superior Avenue Sarasota, 941-312-5630.

OM Crystalline Vibrational Immersion - 7pm, every 2nd Wednesday of the month. Join us for this

www.nasrq.com

beautiful form of deepened relaxation! The OM Shoppe professional Sound Therapy Practitioners bring you these beautiful multi-instrumental sound baths to guide you into a deepened place of stillness and peace. Discover the magical way that sound can help ease you into a meditative state, and heightened mind-body awareness! Tickets: TheOmShoppeand Spa.com or call 941-706-3257. The OM Shoppe 4801 S. Tamiami Tr #5 Sarasota.

Unity of Sarasota - 7pm. First Wednesday’s music, prayers and donations for Ukraine. See Website: Unity ofSarasota.org for Wednesday Night Special offerings. 3023 Proctor Rd., 941-955-3301, UnityOfSarasota.org.

Healing, Intention and Meditation Zoom Live7:30pm (new time). Join us for a time of healing, connection and meditation. Let us all come together and experience the energy and inspiration that can make such a powerful difference in our individual lives. Sarasota Center of Light, 852 S Tuttle Ave. 941-953-6620, or after hours 727-492-2977, Sara sotaCenterofLight.com.

thursday

Kundalini Yoga Class on Holmes Beach - 6pm. A restorative beginner level and gently taught class in the Traditional Kundalini Yoga format, including breathwork, vocal mantras, hand mudras, cueing and poses. Ground yourself within the potent ener gies of nature! Reset and balance your energy, then take a stroll down the beach at sunset. Park at the Manatee Public Beach, walk to the volleyball nets then turn right. By donation. Call Vicki if you need more information at 941-718-0847

A Course in Miracles (ACIM) - 6-7:30pm. Caro line and George Robertie. To register email Caroline. Scammel@Comcast.net. 3023 Proctor Rd., Saraso ta, 941-955-3301, UnityofSarasota.org.

Cosmic Center Gentle Flow Yoga - 6:45pm. With Stephanie Jarvis. Join Stefanie RYT 200 for a Gentle Flow Yoga class geared specifically for those new to yoga or those who are interested in a gentle practice. This class incorporates simple flowing sequences to warm up the body, as well as slower paced move ments focusing on alignment, strength, balance, and flexibility. Breathing techniques and meditation is also integrated. Each class will end with an extended period of relaxation. No experience or flexibility required. In Person, $10/class. Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows - Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.

Cosmic Center A Course in Miracles – 7pm. With Rev Nancy Robinson. A Course in Miracles, scribed by Dr Helen Schucman with Dr Bill Thetford in the 1970s. It is a study program of spiritual psychotherapy designed to awaken in us the truth of our oneness with God and Love. Through the course one learns how the practice of forgiveness assists in releasing elements of the past with a willingness to follow higher guidance, cultivating a miracle-mindedness. Schucman is said to have received the material through ‘inner dictation’ from Christ. Online Zoom only, $10.Cosmic Center of Spiritual Light, 5041 Ringwood Meadows - Bldg G-2, Sarasota, 941-371-9333, CCOSL.com.

Quan Yin Meditation - 7pm. Come join Bridget McMullen, certified meditation teacher and prac titioner, as she guides you through this peaceful

meditation to cultivate compassion within ourselves, but also to spread to our world. You will learn some of the teachings of the ancient Goddess of mercy, compassion, and love. You will journal, and work with various energy tools to amplify your meditation experience. Bring a journal, your favorite crystal, and water to this meditation. You must pre-register at WildGingerApothecary.com to attend. Visit us at Wild Ginger Apothecary, 6557 Superior Avenue, Sarasota, 941-312-5630.

Unity of Sarasota Bentley’s House Pet Loss Support Group - 7-8pm, third Thurs of the month. Meeting in person at Fellowship Hall. Facilitated by Rev. Amy Zehe. 3023 Proctor Rd., 941-955-3301. UnityofSarasota.org

friday

Third Friday-Awakening Activations with Aka sha Jen Smith PhD(c) - Awakening Activations are Divinely channeled group transmissions in alignment with The Highest Good. Each month we focus on a different topic like Joy, Abundance or Love. The Transmissions include Clearings, Healings, Sound Baths, Meditations, Activations and Messages specially channeled for our group. They have the capacity to awaken and attract gifts for you both in the moment and in the time after our gatherings. They’re designed to meet you right where you are. We’re all energy first so getting this aspect of your being cleared and upgraded regularly can create wonderful outcomes for you mentally,

emotionally, spiritually and physically. With less energetic blockages and resistance in your system, you’re more open to receive and manifest with ease and grace. You also get to come together and connect with like-minded souls. Pre-registration required. $33. To register call 941-312-5630 or go to WildGin gerApothecary.as.me/AwakeningActivations Wild Ginger Apothecary, 6557 Superior Avenue Sarasota. Akashic Records Readings and Multidimensional Light Transmissions with Akasha Jen Smith, PhD(c) - 12-5pm. Discover your past lives and soul contracts. Clear the past. Receive guidance and clarity for your life and soul path to make the best de cisions now. These sessions are also deeply healing. Days often fill up so booking ahead recommended. $120/hour, $60/half hour. To book call 941-312-5630 or go to WildGingerApothecary.as.me/Akasha. Wild Ginger Apothecary, 6557 Superior Avenue Sarasota. Unity of Sarasota– Friday Night Spirit Express6:30pm. 1st Friday – Kirtan; 2nd Friday – Movies; 3rd Friday – Drum Circle at Labyrinth, 4th Friday – check our website, 5th Friday - check our website. 3023 Proctor Rd., 941-955-3301. UnityofSarasota.org.

saturday

Sarasota Farmers Market - 7am-1pm. Rain or shine. Established in 1979, the market continues its tradition of serving the community with local produce, plants, prepared foods and artisans. They currently have a full market that includes 70 vendors and 5,000 sq ft of produce and plants. 1 N Lemon Ave., Sarasota, SarasotaFarmersMarket.org.

Bradenton Farmers’ Market - 9am-2pm. Over thirty-five vendors offering locally grown fruits, vegetables, plants, organic products, fresh seafood, prepared foods, as well as the local artists, crafts people and musicians. 400 12th St., W. Bradenton, 941-301-8445.

Free Kids Yoga and Mindfulness Through New Year’s - 11:30-12:15. We want to offer kids a safe space to tune in to their mind, body and soul. After the hurricane and missing so much school and their friends and experiencing fear we hope to help these kids get back on track mentally, emotionally and physically. Free. Palm Studio and Boutique, 441 W. Dearborn Street Englewood, 941-208-5568, PalmStudioEnglewood.com.

resource guide

CHECK OUT OUR NEW ONLINE BUSINESS DIRECTORY AT NASRQ.COM/BUSINESSES

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 Well ness for the whole family utilizing Tra ditional Chinese Medicine,Acupunc ture, Energetic Medicine, Bloodwork Analysis,Clinical Nutrition Assessments and ZYTO Elite to restore balance. Over 30 years of clinical experience!

FAMILY HEALING CENTER, PA

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

•FamilyHealingCenter.com

Family Healing Center, an inte grative wellness practice. Ad dressing all health issues we will find the key to unlock your high est level of health and wellness. Complimentary Meet & Greet

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.

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY AND LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE

TERRY SCHIBLER, LMT MA11621

Fusion Therapy 7069 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941-921-7900

• FusionTherapySarasota.com

Terry Schibler has 30 years experience in advanced bodywork. He has a sin gular ability to trace, recognize and treat complex pain patterns through numerous modalities such as Cranio Sacral Therapy, Lymphatic Drainage, Visceral and Fascial manipulation. Terry’s hands-on work is effective for a wide range of problems associated with pain and dysfunction such as Migraines, Chronic neck/back pain, Concussions, TMJ, Post-surgical dysfunction...and more.

ENERGY HEALING

HEALING ROOMBLUE LIGHT ENERGY HEALING HEALING ROOM, ENERGY HEALING, BIOFEEDBACK STRESS MANAGEMENT, PEMF Treatments to balance over a thousand conditions!

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 pho tographically. Only one maintenance treatment needed every 18 months. Free consultation includes facial anal ysis. Monthly seminars, call for schedule.

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 reme dies, metaphysical gifts and tools, crystals, cards, essential oils, jew elry and more! Classes and drop-in tarot and psychic readers daily. TueFri 10am-5pm and Sat 11am-5pm.

Sarasota/Manatee

FARMERS MARKETS

MEADOWS FARMERS MARKET

5041 Ringwood Meadow Bldg G-2, Sarasota 941-315-7773

MeadowsFarmersMarket.com

Join us every Sunday from 10am to 2pm to feed your mind, body and soul. The Meadows Farmers Market is back for season 2, happening every Sunday until April 30, 2023. Enjoy all your local favorite food, music, art and more. We are excited to be back and have lots of surprises for the community this season.

FELDENKRAIS METHOD®

THE FELDENKRAIS METHOD®

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

Bonnie Kissam, M.A., Feldenkrais® Practi tioner, LMT, CE Provider

941-360-2248

Bonnie@FeldenkraisInSarasota.com

FeldenkraisInSarasota.com

The Feldenkrais® Approach , ‘Move ment 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, class es or for weekend TOUCH TO INFORM seminars

941-360-2248 , Bonnie@FeldenkraisInSarasota.com.

FUNCTIONAL & LIFESTYLE WELLNESS

Infrared Inversion, Sound Immersion with the Singing Bowls 718-791-3797

• PureFieldForce@gmail.com

Energy Healing helps the body with a long list of conditions, aches, pains and imbalances. Biofeedback Scanning locates the imbalances and it also cor rects them. PEMF (Pulsed Magnetic Field Therapy) re-en ergizes damaged cells, it is a powerful tool to MANAGE PAIN! 941-586-9539, Facebook.com/CreateBalanceandHealing

RESONANCE HOLISTIC WELLNESS 3148 Southgate Circle, Suite 8, Sarasota 941-312-4334

ResonanceSRQ.com

37 years of combined experience in Holistic Wellness. Specializing in Research-Based Energy modalities, comprehen sive sessions & focalized services, using FDA ap proved devices. 20 mo dalities to choose. PEMF, VibroAcoustics, Voice Analysis, Scalar Wave Ther apy, Brainwave Entrainment, etc.

BETTER WELLNESS NATURALLY

Laura Weber Garrison, PhD

8051 N Tamiami Trail, Suite F2, Sarasota

941-260-2941

BetterWellnessNaturally.com

Holistic health therapist and coun selor specializing in trauma. Board-certified Drugless Practi tioner. Integrative clinical hypno therapy, yoga-based and somatic therapeutics. Private sessions, groups.

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 elimi nate pain, fatigue and unwanted belly fat through functional med icine, lifestyle strategies and re generative therapies so they can reclaim their vitality and stay engaged in the life they love. We offer PEMF (Pulsed Electromag netic Field Therapy), Class IV Deep Tissue Laser, Near & Far Infrared Sauna, Decompression Thera pies, Whole Body Vibration and carry a profession al line of supplementation.

www.nasrq.com

FENG SHUI

CREATETHEFEELING.COM

Laurie Pawli, Director, Certified Red Ribbon Consultant

CreateTheFeeling.com

TheFengShuiSchoolOfChicago.com

TheFengShuiSchoolOfFlorida.com 630-279-8870

The Feng Shui School of Chicago & Florida is recognized as a Gold Level School, the highest standard established by the International Feng Shui Guild. Basic classes through Professional Certified Consultant Training Programs are taught. Classes are based on the front door of the space with a combination of Virtual and In Per son Classes. Laurie was Certified as a Feng Shui Consultant in 2001 and is a student of Grand Mas ter Professor Thomas Lin Yun.

INPIRATIONAL MESSAGES

S.M.I.L.E.

Spiritual Miracles Intentional Living Education Michelle Marie Angel Michelle@Smile4Love.com Smile4Love.com

THREE NEW BOOKS!!! Live Love: Master Vision and Vibration to Cre ate A Better World, Forever Free: Soul Liberation with the Holy Spirit of Truth, It IS A New World After All: Poetry and Prose to Inspire A New World Vision. These book pro vide high vibrational messages to inspire each soul on the path to higher consciousness. Visit Smile4Love.com for books, messages, videos, and event announcements.

MEDIUMSHIP & SPIRITUAL READINGS

INTERNATIONAL MEDIUM, SPIRITUAL INTUITIVE & CLAIRVOYANT

Caroline Crawford Messages from the spirit world with clarity and compassion. 941-402-9595 • CarolineCrawford.org CarolineCrawfordorg@gmail.com

Highly gifted British Medium and Master Healer, 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, rela tionships, health and spiritual path with renewed confidence and optimism. Touching hearts for over four de cades, Caroline is currently based in Sarasota. By appointment only, in person, by phone or zoom.

MINDFULNESS

YOGAYELY

Yely Staley. e-RYT 500H & YACEP Bilingual Mindful Coach

Book your complimentary consultation at: YogaYely.com

Helping people live their most authentic lives. You can feel balanced, grounded, peaceful, and good about yourself by cul tivating sustainable yoga, med itation, and selfcare practices.

PAIN MANAGEMENTNECK 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 www.SarasotaDiscCenter.com

MENS SEXUAL HEALTH

AMERICAN VITALITY MEDICAL GROUP

3260 Fruitville Road, STE C Sarasota • 727-273-7328

AmericanVitalityMedical.com

ATTENTION

MEN: Super charge Your SEX Life &Be the Hero in the Bed room again! In our technological

age, almost all cases of Erectile Dysfunction and PD are completely reversible. Plaque build-up in the arteries worsens as we age. This arterial plaque build-up inhibits the blood flow needed to get or maintain an erection. This is the main cause of ED.

At American Vitality Medical Group we only use state of the art acoustic wave therapy technology, proven to remove the plaque build-up in the circu latory system and stimulate the growth of new blood vessels, thereby substantially increasing blood flow to the penis. This results in longer, harder erections. There are no drugs, no needles, and no pain. This non-invasive technology is the #1 recommended treatment for ED by The American Urological As sociation. Call Now at 727-273-7328 for your free no-risk consultation, and complimentary ultra-sound. Our success rate is unsurpassed. American Vitality Medical Group-Longevity You Can Trust.

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 rec ipes designed to not only taste delicious, but also enhance your health. Open 7 days a week 11am-9pm.

ORGANIC SALON

HAIR & EARTH ORGANIC SALON

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

• HairandEarth.SalonsByJC.com

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

Medical Breakthrough Technology! Non-Surgical Spinal Decompres sion Specialist, Dr.David Cifra,DC. Advanced procedure for patients who have back and neck pain and want to avoid narcotics, epidural injections, and unnecessary surger ies. Over 90% effective. No pain, No drugs, No surgery, NO Injec tions. Call today 941-358-2224. 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 veter inary diets, raw and frozen diets, dog, cat and bird sup plies. Huge selection of toys, treats, flea and tick products, collars and more.

Certified veterinary nutri tional 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 Cer tifications held monthly at Wild Ginger Apothecary with instructors Paula and Jean-Luc Casano of The Remedy Room. Visit WildGinger Apothecary.com for more informa tion or to schedule your training! Private classes are also available for small groups of 4 or more. Store hours, Tues-Fri 10am-5pm, and Sat 11am-5pm.

SHAMANIC PRACTICES

SPIRITUAL COUNSELOR, SHAMANIC AND REIKI PRACTICES

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

Spiritual counselor, shamanic practi tioner, Reiki healing, breath, and en ergy 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.

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.

THERMOGRAPHY

FLORIDA MEDICAL THERMOGRAPHY

June Drennon, CCT 2008

SPIRITUAL CENTERS

COSMIC CENTER OF SPIRITUAL LIGHT

Embracing the New Paradigms of our Awak-ening Consciousness

5041 Ringwood MeadowsBldg G-2 • Sarasota CCOSL.com

Facebook/Instgram/Twitter

A place of Light and Uncondi tion-al Love bringing together awak-ened and awakening minds and hearts for healing, enlighten ment, support and joy!

JuneDrennon@TampaBayThermography.com 727-729-2711

FloridaMedicalThermography.com

JuneDrennon@FloridaMedicalThermography.com

Certified Clinical Thermog rapher 2008. Prevention is better than early detection. Knowledge is power: Know your risk factors to make cor rections and avoid develop ing pathology. Call for loca tion convenient for you.

WELLNESS CENTER

HEAL YOUR MIND, BODY & SPIRIT Rev. Victoria Stitzer, CHT, Master of NLP, EFT Reiki Master/Teacher, Pranic & Thetahealer 30+ years of pro experience 702-482-3719 • TransformVegas.com

Spiritual Coun seling, Guided Imagery, Past Life Regres sions, Mental Telepathy,

DNA Activation, Customized Ayurvedic Nutrition al Programs, Chinese Cupping for Pain Relief.Stateof-the-Art Mind-Body Technology, Far-infrared Sauna w/o EMF emission, Virtual Vacations using Mind Machine, Complete Bioscan of 700+ Body Meridians with Precise Frequency Corrections, Zero Gravity Massage, Lazer Far-Infrared Foot Detox with pH balancing.

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, meta physical tools, essential oils, jewel ry and more! Classes and drop-in psychic readers daily. Tue-Fri 10am-5pm and Sat 11am-5pm.