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Publisher’s Letter
Winter Solstice. Reflect. Renew. Recharge. The star of this season shines on the message of peace within eternal life.
Happening now and continuing is a major planetary shift effecting a dynamic inner uprising in each of us; reframing karma (as we sow, we reap), we understand how stuff happens not to us but for us, to help us grow (up).
Many of us are stressed out. Our feature article, Soulful Holiday Gifts, offers stellar ideas for self-care gifting. Reflect: Working at peace of mind and heart brings “illuminated” Truth, greater ease and synchronicity to life. “Investing in someone’s peace or transformation outlasts and outshines less thoughtful presents.”
Holidays can trigger trauma. From Melancholy to Sweet Remembrance offers a short read as to how to rise above limiting blocks. Renew: Live each day like it’s your last; learn every day like you’re eternal.
“Turn on your Heartlight” then go to business. Jean Shafiroff, on a Philanthropist’s Calling, shares, “Giving is a wonderful, feel-good experience. The giver receives far more than the receiver…” Recharge: Philanthropy is not only manmade monetary currency, but the even more valuable human currency of caring and comprehensive love.
With an open Heart and mind, please enjoy.
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Bay Life Pharmacy and Compounding Delivers
Bay Life Pharmacy and
Compounding is a locally-owned and operated family pharmacy situated in the heart of St. Petersburg. Offering all medications and a unique natural compounding service for patients and animals, their kind staff treats every patient as family, offering both a walk-in pharmacy as well as delivery service to the doorstep.
Prices and medications are the same as through any other pharmacy, yet the service and business model are customer-centric to the individual and their wellness goals.
Open 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, with a 24-hour chat line on the website, choosing a local pharmacy for your needs not only saves time, but supports your immediate locality.
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Location: 4000 Park St. N, St. Petersburg. For special and more information, call 727-216-6374, email Lisa.BayLife@gmail.com and/or visit BayLifeCompoundingPharmacy.com. See ad page 17.
Better Health with Stretch Rx and Joint Jam CBD
For anyone suffering with pain, stiffness, weak muscles or simply not feeling their best, Stretch Rx is the place. They offer a variety of therapeutic services to help reduce pain from conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia and plantar fasciitis. Additionally, their therapies can help to increase balance, flexibility and endurance for sports and everyday activities.
In one-on-one sessions custom tailored to the individual’s needs, in a private room with a serene setting, Stretch Rx offers massage therapy, red light therapy, therapeutic stretching, reflexology, personal training, power plate, and ionic foot baths and Reiki sessions. Unlike many pop-up stretching businesses, Stretch Rx therapists have been stretching Tampa Bay for 26-plus years. Their newest addition of Joint Jam X CBD products contains full-spectrum hemp oil and the maximum allowable percentage of lidocaine. The product line includes a 1000mg CBD roller and a 400mg CBD salve.
Throughout the rest of 2024, holiday special for new clients: 30-minute stretch session $25. Locations: Palm Harbor & Naples. To schedule an appointment, call 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday, 727-724-4314. See ad page 29.
APRN DeLaney Fosters Inside Beauty at Peaks of Health
Lauren
DeLaney, APRN, Peaks of Health
Metabolic Medical Center, in Largo, is a nurse practitioner with a specialized focus on hormone imbalances, weight loss, peptide therapy, and gut health. Her goal is finding the root cause of any imbalance, restoring her patients to optimal health.
Growing up in Fort Myers, DeLaney obtained her Masters in Nursing and received her licensure through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). Although most of her experience was in emergency medicine, she felt that functional and integrative medicine was her true calling. Tired of the Band-Aid approach, she has immersed herself into a field that can truly help people look, heal and feel their best.
Known for its innovative, leading-edge approach to medicine, Peaks of Health is for anyone who is tired of the pill for every ill and wants to look deeper as to the “why”, expressly adept at addressing all things feminine. Also on offer at the Metabolic Center are toning and sculpting machines designed for abdomen, legs, arms, and face to help burn fat and build muscle.
Location: 1120 Belcher Rd. S., Ste. 2, Largo. For more information and appointments, call 727-826-0838 and/or visit PeaksOfHealth.com. See ad page 11.
World Hypnotism Day Free Online Event Jan. 4
Begin 2025 with dynamic mind-expanding experiences from the comfort of home with Your Unlimited Mind 21st Annual World Hypnotism Day online event, from 4 to 9 p.m., January 4. Featuring top international experts in Medical Hypnotherapy, Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP), Positive Psychology, Sound Healing, Spiritual & Metaphysical Hypnosis and more, registration is free. Can’t attend? No problem. Register as V.I.P. ($25) for unlimited access to videos of the event plus surprise bonuses ($150-plus value).
Patricia “Patti” V. Scott, PhD, certified master trainer and president of UP Hypnosis Institute, Palm Harbor, has hosted this event annually since it began in 2004 as her way to give back to the local community. Drawing from over 32 years in the field, Scott joins an impressive group of A-List professional trainers offering free information and mini-trances, with her particular expertise being Medical Hypnotherapy (Scott created the first Medical Hypnotherapy Specialty Certification to be approved by the International Medical & Dental Hypnotherapy Association).
With Your Unlimited Mind, learn how these integrative techniques are used for chronic pain, anxiety-PTSD, immune response, sports, weight, smoking, memory, cancer, allergies and more. For log-in link, register at UPHypnosis.com or email UPHypnosis@yahoo.com. See ad page 33.
Wet Cupping Therapy for Asthma
A study published in the Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences evaluated the use of wet cupping therapy (WCT) for mild to moderate asthma. Cupping therapy, in which localized suction is created on the skin with the application of heated cups, is a traditional method used in Persian medicine for treating various ailments. The study included 82 asthma patients divided into two groups: the control group was treated with common asthma medications, and the intervention group received three sessions of WCT between the shoulders. Clinical signs of asthma were gathered from all patients over eight weeks following the WCT. The researchers concluded that WCT can be an efficient therapy to improve respiratory complications of asthma patients.
Service Dogs Benefit Veterans With Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
In a nonrandomized controlled trial, researchers studied the viability of psychiatric service dogs for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Eighty-one veterans with PTSD were given a trained psychiatric service dog, and 75 veterans in the control group did not receive one. Both groups had access to other PTSD care. Over a three-month measurement period, the group with the service dogs had significantly lower PTSD symptom severity, significantly lower depression and anxiety, and better psychosocial functioning, as compared to the control group. The dropout rate in this study was substantially lower than other trauma- and non-trauma-focused treatments, leading the researchers to conclude that the dogs may be an effective complementary therapy for military service-related PTSD.
Acupuncture for Shingles
Shingles (herpes zoster) is a viral disease that causes a red rash on the face or one side of the body, accompanied by fluid-filled blisters, pain, burning and tingling. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 1 million Americans suffer from this condition every year. In a systematic review of studies, researchers evaluated 59 randomized controlled trials involving almost 4,000 shingles patients that had been treated with acupuncture. They concluded that acupuncture therapies were effective and safe for the treatment of this viral disease, reducing pain and skin lesions with few adverse effects.
SimpleFoto/CanvaPro
Mindfulness App Helps Intensive Care Patients
Individuals recovering from critical illnesses that spend time in an intensive care unit (ICU) frequently experience depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. Existing interventions in and out of the hospital have not been effective in relieving the psychological distress symptoms of these patients. A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine tested various ways of delivering a mobile app-based mindfulness intervention to ICU survivors.
The study included 247 ICU patients that had been in the hospital for an average of more than 15 days and in the ICU for an average of almost seven days. The patients were randomly assigned to one of eight intervention groups that evaluated different combinations of treatment elements, including an introductory session via mobile app or therapist call, a once- or twice-daily guided mindfulness meditation regimen, and management of increasing symptoms via mobile
app or therapist call. While all eight groups showed significant improvements in their psychological distress symptoms after three months, the optimal intervention included an appbased introduction, twice-daily guided meditations and an app-based response when a participant had increasing symptoms of depression.
Stem-Cell Treatment To Reverse Type 1 Diabetes
Reports from an early phase 1 clinical trial are encouraging for the reversal of Type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the pancreas’s insulinproducing cells. Without insulin, blood sugar builds up in the bloodstream and causes damage to the body.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 1.7 million Americans have the disease, for which there currently is no cure.
The study, published in the journal Cell , reported on the progress of a 25-year-old woman with Type 1 diabetes who underwent stem-cell therapy made from her own cells. She began producing her own insulin less than three months after the treatment and continued to be free from insulin injections after one year. More research and development of cost-effective manufacturing processes are needed before a stem cell-derived therapy will be available to patients.
Decreasing Birth Rates Concern Countries
A country needs an average birth rate of 2.1 children per family to naturally replace its population. According to the latest 2022 World Bank Group data, the U.S. birth rate is 1.7, the European Union is at 1.5 and China is at 1.2. Among wealthy countries, South Korea has the lowest birthrate at less than 0.8. In a recent survey, one in two South Korean women of child-bearing age said they had no intention of having children. While the number of children is falling, the number of dogs has doubled since 2018 in South Korea. The sale of dog strollers has quadrupled since 2019, and their sale now exceeds the sale of baby strollers. The drop in the birthrate prompted President Yoon to declare a “demographic national emergency” and called on the government to help avoid an “existential crisis”.
Jasper Chamber from Getty Images/CanvaPro
Dr. Mercola Joins Natural Smiles of Tampa Bay as Medical Director
Natural Smiles, a leading holistic dental practice in St. Petersburg, is proud to announce the appointment of renowned integrative health expert Dr. Joseph Mercola as its new medical director. Known globally for his work in natural health and wellness, Dr. Mercola will collaborate with Dr. Carlo Litano, founder and owner of Natural Smiles of Tampa Bay, to further enhance, strengthen and advance the practice’s commitment to holistic, patient-centered care.
With more than four decades of pioneering work in medicine, nutrition and wellness,
Dr. Mercola is a prominent board-certified Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), best-selling author and the founder of Mercola.com. A renowned leader in integrative health, he is recognized for his groundbreaking approach to preventive care and dedication to advancing natural health, earning him global recognition as a trusted expert. Dr. Mercola’s expertise brings a new dimension to Natural Smiles, enhancing its comprehensive services to further optimize patient care. This collaboration reflects the practice’s commitment to blending cutting-edge dental care with holistic health principles.
“Dr. Mercola’s extensive background in integrative health is a tremendous asset to our practice,” shares Dr. Litano. “His unique perspective will help us expand our offerings, providing patients with a level of care that goes beyond traditional dentistry to improve both their dental and overall health.”
Natural Smiles stands at the forefront of holistic dentistry, recognizing the deep connection between oral health and overall well-being. Unlike traditional practices, it emphasizes how dental care impacts the entire body. The practice uses non-toxic, biocompatible materials, avoiding harmful chemicals
and ensuring safe, mercury-free dentistry. They also specialize in safe amalgam removal using advanced protocols to protect patients from mercury exposure.
In addition to these foundational principles, Natural Smiles offers unique treatments like ceramic dental implants—a metal-free alternative that is biocompatible and more aligned with holistic philosophies. The practice also utilizes ozone therapy, a cutting-edge method that disinfects and promotes healing naturally— without harsh chemicals.
Under Dr. Mercola’s guidance, Natural Smiles will expand its focus on nutrition and lifestyle changes, integrating them into dental care to further support both oral and systemic health. By combining top-tier dental services with integrative health strategies, Natural Smiles is creating a holistic environment where treatments are aligned with the body’s natural healing processes. This partnership establishes Natural Smiles as a premier destination for patients seeking dental care that not only addresses oral health but also contributes to their overall wellbeing.
Located at 132 Mirror Lake Dr., Ste. 101, St. Pete, call 727-300-0044 for appointment. For more information, visit NaturalSmiles.com. See ad page 4.
Funny but Serious Science
Organized by the scientific humor magazine Annals of Improbable Research, the Ig Nobel Prize is a satirical award honoring achievements that make people laugh, then think. This year’s winners were announced at a lively ceremony at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Winning in the category of physiology, a Japanese research team led by Ryo Okabe and Takanori Takebe discovered that mammals could breathe through their anuses, as reported in the research journal Med. Working with mice and pigs, the scientists tested an enema-like procedure called enteral ventilation via anus, which delivers oxygen-carrying liquid to the body through the distal gut. This innovation could eventually be an effective alternative for getting oxygen to critically ill patients when ventilators are in short supply, as was the case during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Jacob White and Felipe Yamashita won the prize for botany, having found that a flowering plant native to central and southern Chile and Argentina (Boquila trifoliolata) could imitate the shapes of artificial, plastic plants that were placed nearby. In their paper published in Plant Signaling and Behavior, the scientists observed that the real leaves were altered in area, perimeter, length and width, and that the vein pattern of the leaves also changed to be closer to the look of the artificial leaves. The mechanism behind this ability of the plant to “see” the neighboring plant is not yet understood.
Sweat Monitor Measures Overexertion
An elastic band developed by Northwestern University, in Illinois, can show how strenuously muscles are working by measuring the acidity of perspiration on the skin. The band can be placed around the user’s working muscle, such as the ankle of a cyclist or the wrist of a tennis player.
A series of tiny reservoirs collect sweat at different intervals, while a sensor measures the acidity, and a smart phone or electronic monitor reports the results. A low pH may indicate the need to stop exercising to avoid sore muscles, whereas a high pH suggests the user has not worked out enough.
Linking Biodiversity to Human Health
In a study published in the journal Science, Eyal Frank, an environmental economist and assistant professor at the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy, sought to quantify the human health impacts of biodiversity loss. He analyzed the effects of a significant decline in insect-eating bat populations across North America that started in 2006 due to a deadly disease known as white-nose syndrome.
By analyzing annual data after 2006 in numerous U.S. counties, Frank noted that chemical insecticide use by farmers had increased by about 30 percent, on average. During that same time period in the same counties, infant mortality rates due to internal causes (i.e., neither accidents nor homicides) rose by nearly 8 percent.
The study highlights the direct benefits biodiversity provides to agriculture and human well-being, “where interactions between natural enemies—insect-eating bats and crop pests— allow farmers to use lower amounts of toxic substitutes,” says Frank, who further noted that by improving our understanding of how changes in biodiversity affect human wellbeing, we can better design and implement conservation policies.
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Michel VIARD from Getty Images/ CanvaPro
Artificial Beaver Dams Protect Wildlife
The World Wildlife Fund is working with local partners and ranchers to install artificial beaver dams in streams across the Northern Great Plains. The area’s ecosystem lost the benefits of beaver dams when the population of this aquatic creature was decimated in the mid-to-late 1800s for its fur.
Like their natural counterparts, artificial dams slow water flow and prevent harmful erosion, resulting in higher water tables, soil improvements, healthier plants and better habitats for wildlife. Areas with dams also recover more quickly from droughts. Artificial dam construction borrows extensively from the beaver’s natural skills. Flexible branches from local trees are woven between wooden stakes and then packed with mud, sand, dirt, roots and plants. In a full-circle moment, a participating rancher spotted a beaver making a new home by expanding upon an artificial dam one year after it was installed.
Rise of Shampoo, Conditioner and Dish Soap Bars
The use of shampoo, conditioner and dish soap bars is gaining traction among eco-conscious consumers seeking a more sustainable future.
Environmental Impacts
Although the liquid form of these products may be convenient, their environmental impact is significant. Most come in plastic bottles, only 5 to 6 percent of which are recycled. The rest languish in landfills or break down into microplastics that flow into the waterways, harming marine life and ecosystems. The vast majority of these liquid products contain harmful chemicals such as sulfates and parabens that are detrimental to human health and end up in the water supply.
Benefits of Bars
According to beauty bar manufacturer Ethique, one bar can last as long as two to three plastic bottles of the liquid counterpart, saving money and reducing waste. A number of companies produce bars that are free from harmful chemicals and are sold in minimal, compostable packaging. Bars are travel-friendly, with no airline restrictions. They weigh less than a regular-sized bottle of shampoo, and there is no risk of spillage in luggage.
Dish soap bars are highly concentrated, so they last longer. Many are made from natural ingredients that are gentle on the skin and safe for the environment. They eliminate the need for plastic bottles and
often come in recyclable or compostable packaging. Use them for washing dishes, cleaning surfaces and handwashing delicate items.
Purchasing Tips
Choose products with natural ingredients and minimal packaging, and brands that prioritize sustainability and transparency, offering detailed information about their practices and ingredients. If a company is vague or evasive, look elsewhere.
Ethique, Lush and EcoRoots, for example, offer high-quality, eco-friendly bars that cater to a variety of needs. Ethique is known for its zero-waste commitment. Lush offers a wide range of handmade bars with unique scents and ingredients. EcoRoots focuses on natural, sustainable products for eco-conscious consumers.
Certifications by USDA Organic, Fair Trade and Leaping Bunny indicate that a product meets specific environmental and ethical standards. A label listing natural ingredients is a good sign, but be wary of vague terms like “green” or “eco-friendly” without specifics to back them up.
Usage Tips
To prolong the life of bars and ensure they remain effective and hygienic, keep them dry between uses and use a soap dish with drainage holes or a reusable tin for storage. It might take a few tries to become accustomed to using solid bars, but they are just as effective as their liquid counterparts. Rub the bar between the hands or directly onto hair or dishes, then rinse thoroughly. High-quality bars can produce an impressive lather.
From Melancholy to Sweet Remembrance
by Marlaina Donato
“No loss is felt more keenly than the loss of what might have been. No nostalgia hurts as much as nostalgia for things that never existed,” says Rabih Alameddine in one of his poignant novels, and his words strike a chord, especially during the holidays. As another year takes a bow at the stroke of midnight, it is easy for many of us to succumb to grief for what we have never tasted. Those of us that lost what is cherished can feel homesick for times that might never come again.
Much of our society—as well as our inner emotional landscape—is molded by unrealistic family ideals. The holidays can serve up dark times and memories for those that have struggled through a dysfunctional dynamic, and can trigger trauma. Isolating ourselves and turning down invitations might seem like the only way of coping, but there is a fine line between being a prisoner of the past and living joyously in the present.
The willingness to create fresh memories or start new traditions with loved ones can be a soul-soothing balm. For those traversing a solitary path, novel activities and social gatherings can provide something to look forward to during the festive season. Feeding pigeons in the park, gifting a delicious dessert to a mail carrier, attending a religious service or having a winter picnic can help us find a sweet spot that tempers the holiday blues.
Although the world is decked with festive reminders, some people mourn a rapidly changing society, but we can maintain surer footing when we remind ourselves to tap into beauty within reach, change monotonous customs and move forward while looking back with nostalgia.
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at BluefireStudio.art.
Soulful Holiday Gifts
Restorative Presents for Loved Ones
by Marlaina Donato
Winter urges us to schedule more downtime, but the festive season can sweep us into a whirlwind of time-sensitive preparations, social gatherings and the nurturing of our loved ones. Between the office party and taking the family feast out of the oven, self-care can easily be forgotten, and we may wind up feeling overwhelmed.
Many of us are stressed out. According to a 2023 survey by the American Association of Retired Persons, 50 percent of caregivers are burdened emotionally from maintaining the role, and four in 10 caregivers rarely, if ever, feel relaxed. A national survey conducted by The Ohio State University
Wexner Medical Center found that 62 percent of parents feel the weight of burnout. Earlier this year, the American Psychological Association revealed in a survey that 57 percent of workers are enduring workrelated stress in the form of burnout, anger and emotional exhaustion.
This giving season, remembering family members near and far, as well as service providers, teachers, emergency personnel, nurses and tradespeople, can provide relief (and even a sprinkle of magic) to those that make a meaningful difference in our lives. While sharing holiday joy with others, it is important to also gift ourselves with soothing
activities and helpful items to temper holiday stress.
The Gift of Self-Care
“Self-care needs to happen daily— whether meditation, journaling, taking yourself out for a cup of coffee with a book, cooking yourself nourishing food or even dancing to your favorite song in the kitchen,” says Caitlin Ball, a health and lifestyle coach in Zurich, Switzerland. “Sometimes, planning to have no plans is a special treat, especially for those of us that have packed calendars. Even if you’re spending the holidays with family, you don’t have to spend every waking minute together,
Julia Metkalova from Julia Metkalova/CanvaPro
and everyone will be happier if you are happy.”
Whether we go online to create a curated box of comfort for ourselves or surprise someone with a gift certificate from their favorite yoga studio or nail salon, acknowledging body, mind and spirit can be the ultimate gesture of generosity. “Gifting selfcare to someone else is like saying, ‘I see you fully.’ It acknowledges that a person is more than just their day-to-day roles or responsibilities—they have emotional, physical and mental needs,” says Chrissa J. Santoro, senior director of communications at the Omega Institute for Holistic Studies, in Rhinebeck, New York.
Investing in someone’s peace or transformation outlasts and outshines less thoughtful presents. “Gifting a retreat experience, workshop or wellness service to a loved one is like giving them permission to prioritize themselves—a gift many people hesitate to give themselves, especially after hardship, long work weeks or grief,” Santoro asserts. “These experiences create a space for someone to step away from the stress, noise and demands of daily life, giving them a chance to reset. This kind of thoughtful gift offers not only physical rest, but also emotional renewal, reminding them of their own worth and helping them rebuild strength from the inside out.”
A self-care gift can be as simple as a basket of locally made artisan bread or as lifechanging as a personalized therapeutic intervention. “Maybe that holiday gift is a gift certificate to see a coach, a counselor or a therapist,” suggests Paula Forte, an integrative health and wellness coach in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, who specializes in helping caregivers that too often care for others more than themselves.
Forte spent 45 years working as a registered nurse before becoming her husband’s caregiver when he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. She knows firsthand the
downward spiral of self-neglect. Her suggestions for mindful gift-giving include a week of meal delivery service, especially if eating healthy has been a challenge; simple pleasures, such as a canister of fragrant tea or a bouquet of flowers; or a ticket to a botanical garden, inviting the recipient to spend healthful time out in nature. Slipping a gift certificate into a holiday card for prepaid healthy lunches, a pickleball membership or the services of a home organizer might usher in a positive new chapter.
The Pampered Path
Since ancient times, people have sought luxurious and therapeutic respite in baths and the use of precious oils and scents. From hot stone massage to aromatherapy spa treatments, today’s bodywork modalities offer something for everyone. Pampering might be seen as a vanity-driven practice, but heading to the nearest spa or salon is a surefire way to boost endorphins that not only
improve mood but lower stress hormones such as cortisol, promoting the body’s natural state of homeostasis. A 2020 study published in the journal Scientific Reports found that 10 minutes of massage, as well as simple rest, significantly reduces systemic stress by prompting the nervous system to switch into parasympathetic mode.
Giving someone a pampering experience can be a wonderful way to bring them fully back to all their senses. “A great option is a gift certificate to your favorite spa for a facial or a skincare basket to create that selfcare routine at home,” says Diana DePaoli, holistic esthetician, herbalist and owner of Aura+Bloom, in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. “Men need self-care, too. According to my husband, Danny, it is sleep and a good shave, followed up with some extra love for his beard with my chamomile serum.”
DePaoli’s energy facials include tuning-fork sound healing, as well as reiki, an energy-
healing modality, combining physical and spiritual restoration in one session. Even à la carte spa treatments like Himalayansalt massage or foot reflexology does a body and soul good.
Gifting Kindness, Time and Presence
Making someone’s world light up this holiday season doesn’t need to involve expensive presents. Creating a special music playlist, serving breakfast in bed or inviting a neighbor out for coffee are simple, but lovely, gestures that make a person feel special. “I think coupons for experiences you can do together are very meaningful, and you get to spend quality time together. Maybe a coupon for a day hike and picnic, or a movie night with lots of fun snacks,” recommends Ball, adding, “The older people in our lives just want to hear from us or spend time with us. Give them a coupon saying you will call them once a week.”
Forte’s low-cost suggestions include “a book of coupons to run errands they simply don’t have time to complete, like taking their kids to a museum or park, returning the purchase that was the wrong size or detailing their car.” For DePaoli, inexpensive but thoughtful gifts can also fill someone’s belly with love. “You can’t go wrong with making someone a homemade meal or dessert,” she suggests.
Adopting a Self-Care Mindset
Self-care is vital during the holidays and beyond. DePaoli says, “Being able to rest and reboot is very important to being able to have the energy and mindset to move forward in anything.” And according to Forte, “Self-care isn’t selfish. It is self-preservation.”
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and recording artist. Connect at BluefireStudio.art.
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Click Local
How Online Shopping Boosts Neighborhood Businesses
by Megy Karydes
When Chicago resident Debbie Carlson wants to buy a book, she goes online. Instead of Amazon, she places her orders through Bookshop.org because her local bookstore benefits from the purchase while she enjoys the extra convenience. Carlson is not alone, as consumers increasingly look for ways to bolster their neighborhood economy.
“I want to have a thriving retail and local community, and I want to support businesses here,” she says. “If I can’t get to the physical store, I want to be able to go to their website and see what they have.”
Although she lives within walking distance of independent shops, food markets and hardware stores, as a full-time professional, she appreciates the convenience of online shopping. Once Carlson finds a store she likes, she’ll sign up to receive updates via email. When something catches her eye, she has no problem picking up the phone and speaking with the proprietor to clarify any questions. “I know they’ll get back to me right away and give me the information I want,” she explains.
Building a Retail Community
“We have become friends with so many of our customers,” says Bonnie Schulz, owner of Bonnie’s Chic Boutique, in
Grayslake, Illinois, which features apparel, accessories and home goods, and celebrated 10 years in business this fall. While an active customer base shops in person, she understands that it isn’t easy for everyone to regularly come in to see what’s new. To stay connected with her clientele, she greets them on Facebook Live every Wednesday, walking around
the shop and pointing out the latest arrivals.
“Every single time I do a What’s New Wednesday, we have people calling to set aside an outfit or coming in to buy something,” Schulz says, noting that her customers are not always local to the area. Some of her regulars keep tuning in even
though they have moved away. It’s easy for them to place an order on the phone or have a neighbor or family member pick it up to ship to them.
Schulz has spent years nurturing her re lationship with her customers, and they trust her opinion as they would a friend’s. She has become a trusted personal shop per, and once she gets to know them, she can steer them in the right direction even if they’re not in the store.
High Tech Meets High Touch
Part of the reason online shopping has become so popular is it can be done with a click of a button, and there is hardly anything that cannot be found online. According to a Pew Research Center sur vey, whether ordering household items or the latest fashions, the internet has reshaped how, when and where we make purchases. Smartphones have made it so convenient that about one in three Americans shop online with their phone at least weekly.
Companies like Locally.com are making it easier for customers to find items close by, even if they want to shop online. Their omnichannel business strategy provides a seamless shopping experience across all channels, including in-store, mobile and online. If a shopper is looking for a local retailer to buy their next pair of running shoes, for example, they can input their location and the product on Locally’s website or app, which will iden tify which nearby retailers have that item in stock. The shopper can then choose to order it online or go to the store to make their purchase.
While Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok dominate online sales, 87 percent of brands report that their email marketing campaigns are just as critical to their business success, according to
Litmus, an email marketing platform. It takes time for independent retailers to keep websites updated, and sending emails is time-consuming, but independent retailers understand that shoppers appreciate the convenience of shopping online while sup
Something To Smile About
A Look at Non-Toxic Dental Products
by Zak Logan
With a plethora of products on the shelves promising snow-white smiles and stronger teeth, it is tricky deciding which ones are reliable and the least toxic. For example, antimicrobial mouthwashes, especially those with chlorhexidine, have prompted scientific investigation into possible correlations between their use and cardiovascular disease, oral cancer and other conditions. While there is no conclusive evidence that popular mouth rinses are helpful or harmful, it is something to consider when it comes to dental hygiene regimens.
“It’s an exciting time for natural dental care, and these trends are paving the way for healthier, more conscious oral care routines,” says Trina Felber, a cleanbeauty coach and founder of Primal Life Organics. With cutting-edge alternatives like nano-hydroxyapatite replacing controversial fluoride, cleansing agents designed to promote beneficial bacteria, and LED light therapy for gum health and tooth whitening, mouth-care has a bright future.
Remineralizing Teeth Without Risks
Pharmaceutical-grade fluoride, an ionized form of fluorine, has long been touted as a cavity preventative, counteracting acidic conditions in the mouth and remineralizing the teeth. Concerns,
including cognitive deficits in children due to exposure to high levels of fluoride, may be enough to rethink its presence in oral care products and dental applications, especially in areas where sodium fluoride, a chemical byproduct of aluminum, steel and cement manufacturing, is added to drinking water.
“Hydroxyapatite toothpastes are gaining a lot of attention these days as people search for effective alternatives to fluoride to help strengthen and remineralize their teeth,” says naturopathic physician Shawn Manske, assistant director of clinical education at Biocidin Botanicals. “What makes hydroxyapatite so promising is that it is naturally nontoxic and bioactive. Your teeth are made of the same minerals that comprise hydroxyapatite, which your body readily recognizes and uses to repair thinning or damaged tooth enamel. Nano-hydroxyapatite [in toothpaste], because of its much smaller particle size, can penetrate deep within the tooth, helping to remineralize from within.”
Felber highlights the gaining popularity of nano-hydroxyapatite, as well as other enamel-supportive ingredients such as bentonite, kaolin and French green clays, “which naturally protect enamel without the potential downsides of fluoride,” although no studies have
confirmed the clays’ ability to remineralize teeth.
Manske points out that nano-hydroxyapatite products on the market today, including toothpastes, are made using a synthetically produced ingredient “because there is currently no natural nanohydroxyapatite on Earth. However, the synthetic nano-hydroxyapatite is considered biocompatible with the hydroxyapatite naturally found in teeth—meaning not harmful to living tissue—and research demonstrates its effectiveness.”
Natural Whiteners and the Oral Ecosystem
We all want whiter teeth, but popular over-the-counter whiteners are gaining attention as enamel compromisers. A 2019 assessment conducted by the Danish Environmental Protection Agency and research published in British Dental Journal show that the common ingredients sodium chlorite and citric acid in whitening trays, pens and strips might lead to the destruction of enamel and hardness in the teeth. The Danish assessment also warned against the use of whitening products containing more than 0.1 percent hydrogen peroxide.
“LED light teeth-whitening systems are gaining traction, including toothbrushes
with built-in LED light technology. These systems use blue LED light combined with a natural whitening gel to break down stains without the harsh chemicals that can weaken enamel or cause sensitivity,” explains Felber, adding that LED light therapy is a powerful tool for healthier gums, too. “Red light therapy helps to reduce inflammation, promote tissue healing and stimulate collagen production in the gums, while blue light targets harmful bacteria that cause gum disease, all without disrupting the oral microbiome.”
A healthy oral microbiome plays a vital role in producing nitric oxide, a molecule essential for maintaining cardiovascular health, improving blood flow and supporting immune function. Felber underscores the importance of using natural dental-care products to support this delicate microbiome.
Manske notes, “Many commonly used mouthwashes can harm your oral microbiome, upsetting the balance of beneficial bacteria in your mouth. Essentially, what these mouthwashes do is wipe out the good bugs with the bad. This creates a state of dysbiosis, which can lead to oral health concerns later.”
Some toothpaste (including the toothpaste tube) and toothbrushes may contain ingredients that disrupt human hormones, such as triclosan (an antibacterial), parabens (a group of preservatives), phthalates (chemicals that make plastic flexible), sodium lauryl sulfate (chemicals that produce a foaming action) and artificial sweeteners. As a result, more companies are going green by producing toothpaste tablets that come in glass or paper packaging and bamboo toothbrushes. “These biodegradable toothbrushes reduce plastic waste and are a great option for anyone looking to make their oral care routine more sustainable,” says Felber.
Zak Logan is a freelance health writer dedicated to holistic living and getting back to basics.
Whatever you think people are withholding from you—praise, appreciation, assistance, loving care, and so on—give it to them.
—Eckhart Tolle
Jean Shafiroff
on A Philanthropist’s Calling
by Sandra Yeyati
New York socialite and humanitarian Jean Shafiroff is the author of Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life of What You Give, in which she offers readers the motivation and practical advice to donate time, knowledge and resources to causes that inspire them. She is the producer and host of a television show that airs six times a week through LTV studios in East Hampton, New York, where she interviews politicians, celebrities, business leaders and prominent philanthropists.
In recognition of her generosity and extensive work as a volunteer fundraiser, she has received numerous awards, and in 2022, she was proclaimed the First Lady of Philanthropy by the New York State Assembly. Every year, Shafiroff hosts and underwrites large cocktail parties in her homes on behalf of different charities, with a special focus on women’s rights, underserved populations, health care and animal welfare. She serves on the boards of the Southampton Hospital Foundation, Mission Society of New York City, Couture Council of the Museum at Fashion Institute of Technology, French Heritage Society, Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education, New York Women’s Foundation, Global Strays, Southampton Animal Shelter and the Historical Society of Palm Beach County.
Shafiroff has a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy and an MBA in finance from Columbia University. She worked as a physical therapist at St. Luke’s Hospital, in New York City, and as an investment banker on Wall Street. Together with her husband, Martin, vice chairman of global wealth management at Stifel, they have raised two daughters.
What is your definition of philanthropy?
Anyone can be a philanthropist. If you do not have the money to donate, you can become a philanthropist by giving your time and knowledge, which are two very valuable resources. Many people
do a tremendous amount of volunteer work. That being said, I believe that those who have the financial resources have an obligation to give, because life is not created equal.
Why should people be generous with their time, knowledge and resources?
We live in a world where hunger, homelessness and other terrible hardships exist. There is great need, and the government cannot do everything, so that is where individuals, foundations and businesses step up to the plate and get involved.
Giving is a wonderful, feel-good experience. The giver receives far more than the receiver, and by giving, we help to equalize the disparities between those that have and those that do not have. I feel blessed to be involved in philanthropy. I encourage everyone who has a little time to get involved.
Michael Paniccia
What prompted you personally to engage in philanthropy?
Working as a physical therapist at St. Luke’s, an inner-city hospital where my patients lived at or below the poverty level and had serious health issues, I learned right then and there that life is not fair. I believe that those of us who have the ability to be helpful have an obligation to do so.
I also travelled to visit orphanages, schools and people that lived in huts in Cambodia, as well as very poor sections of Colombia, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and China, and those experiences were life-changing. My own life in the United States is so different. I feel like I have to do something, otherwise I have pretty much wasted my lifetime. It is very fulfilling to do philanthropic work, and I will continue to do it for the rest of my life, so long as I am able.
What advice do you have for people that want to become philanthropists?
I suggest following your passions. If a relative had breast cancer and you want to find a cure, maybe you want to get involved with a charity that is working on breast cancer research. If you have an interest in the arts, maybe you want to support a museum.
Read all you can about a charity before you get involved. Google them. Look at their website. Read articles about them. Look for a charity that is well-run, has a low overhead and reports how the funds are being used. GuideStar.org or CharityNavigator. org rate the larger charities.
Why do you believe it is important to teach kids about the value of giving?
Philanthropy has to continue in the future, so we need to encourage children to engage in it in order for it to survive. Philanthropy needs to be taught to children by our being good role models. Parents who
are involved in philanthropy often involve their children. Schools need to teach about its importance and have community service requirements. It is key to mentor and encourage future generations to engage in philanthropy.
What about philanthropy in terms of the older generations?
For a person who is retired or who has raised a family and is now an empty nester with a lot of time on their hands, it is very fulfilling to get involved in philanthropy. Rather than sitting in front of the television or playing golf every day, which maybe they have absolutely no interest in, getting
involved in philanthropic causes can create meaning in their lives. When you volunteer, you meet a lot of nice people and make friends. You also know that you are helping those who need help, and that is a feel-good experience. It is a very worthwhile use of your time.
Sandra Yeyati is national editor of Natural Awakenings.
To read a longer version of this conversation, visit online at TinyURL.com/ShafiroffWW or scan the QR code.
Practicing Sensory Skills at Home
How To Help Kids Explore the Senses
by Christina Connors
From birth, children are naturally curious, letting their senses lead the way as they discover the world around them. Through sight, hearing, smell, taste and touch, they learn to navigate their environment and recognize their place in it. Although the five senses are innate skills, kids need to practice, understand and integrate these sensations as they mature, so that they can anticipate the dangers, enjoy the thrills, develop their thinking and cope with new emotions.
Sensory skill-building teaches children how to explore their surroundings with confidence. Exercises and games that develop the senses can make the learning experience fun for kids, while also allowing parents and instructors to guide the process and marvel at their children’s discoveries.
Sight
Eye Spy: This game involves one player that chooses a secret object and provides a clue so that the other players can guess what it is. The clue is introduced with the phrase, “I spy with my little eye.” Players take turns guessing until the object is identified. Through laughs and giggles, participating children are invited to notice individual items around the room or at the park, sparking curiosity and developing cognitive skills.
Color of the Week: Each week, the family agrees to look for items that are a certain color. The game may inspire discussions about the different shades and tones of the chosen color, as well as how this hue makes them feel. It supports communication skills at home, which helps kids feel safe, seen and valued.
Smell
Scent Search: Using a diffuser with children is a great way to help them distinguish unique scents such as sweet, floral or spicy. The conversation can then expand to explore how different aromas make them feel, and to help children identify their likes and dislikes.
Grow a Garden: A family garden filled with flowers and herbs provides unique sensory experiences for children, including new scents, sights and textures. For those living in cities, potted flowers and herbs around the home will have a similar effect.
Taste
Fabulous Fruit: Encourage children to try different fruits. From tangy grapefruit to sweet-smelling strawberries or mushy bananas—there are so many flavors, aromas and textures to explore as kids learn to appreciate the present moment. This can also become a wonderful opportunity to talk about how a fruit develops from a tiny seed.
Dinnertime Delights: Have a pizza or pasta buffet where everyone gets to choose their topping. This encourages children to try new ingredients and talk about the different flavors they encounter.
Hearing
Walk and Listen: While strolling in nature or in town, stop every five minutes and ask everyone to listen quietly to the different sounds. After 30 seconds, start walking again and take turns describing in detail what each person heard and guessing what could have made the sound. Walking, especially in nature, soothes the nervous system and fosters deep family connections.
Bedtime Singalong: “I always tell my parents to sing to their kids at bedtime,” says Crae Akerson, a Connecticut-based occupational therapist specializing in sensory
strategies. “It is one of the most powerful ways to use sound for deep connection and feelings of safety.”
Touch
Sensory Bins: “Fill different bins with kidney beans, split peas or rice. Hide little objects or toys in them and have your kids reach in the bins to find them,” recommends Akerson. Without removing the item from the bin, ask the child to describe the object with as many details as possible.
Testing Textiles: At bedtime, bring patches of different fabrics like cotton, wool, flannel, sheep skin, burlap or silk, and entice a child to touch and describe the feel of each textile. In addition to learning about the sense of touch, they may also pick up a few vocabulary words.
Interoception
According to Brad Chapin, a child psychologist, author and director of clinical services at Stormont-Vail Health, in Topeka, Kansas, there is a sixth sense. “Interoception is the ability to sense and interpret internal signals from the body such as heart rate, hunger and internal warning signs when feeling dysregulated,” he explains.
Health & Wellness
Coming in January
“This is important, especially now, because there is so much noise and overstimulation in our world. It can be easy to lose our ability to tap into the internal world of ourselves, which is necessary in helping us regulate our emotions throughout the day.”
Labeling Body Cues: To help children make the connection between their bodies and their emotions, it is helpful for adults to model the relationship. For example, Chapin suggests saying to a child, “My face feels warm when the sun shines on it,” or “I can tell I am feeling nervous because I feel my heart beating faster, and I feel cold.” Encourage children to share their emotions and how their body feels at that time.
Exploring Facial Expressions: “While watching TV, ask your kids, ‘What do you think that character is feeling like right now? Sad? Happy?’” Chapin recommends. By learning how to see the emotional world inside others, kids begin to develop empathy.
Christina Connors is a writer, singer and creator of a YouTube series for children. Learn more at ChristinasCottage444.com.
Conscious Eating
Healthier Holiday Cookies
Easy Switches That Don’t Compromise on Taste
by Maya Whitman
Whether it’s chunky chocolate chip, classic sugar, jammy rugelach, spicy gingerbread, Russian teacakes or cinnamon-dusted snickerdoodles, the holidays would not be complete without a festive array of cookies. Seasonal favorites usually pack on the sugar, but with a little know-how, whipping up healthier versions can be both easy and fun.
“The most important thing to remember is that the techniques are the same; only the ingredients have changed,” says Christina Pirello, Emmy Award-winning host of the national public television cooking show Christina Cooks! and author of 13 plant-based cookbooks. “Even healthy versions of cookies can feel indulgent while being better for you. Use the best quality ingredients you can, and you’ll never go wrong.”
Sugar Savvy
Most conventional cookie recipes require up to two cups of sugar, not-so-good news for any health-conscious sweet tooth, but alternatives are plentiful. “With the caveat that most sweetener substitutions require some adjustments to make sure the final texture still works, there are some fabulous options that up the nutrients, add more flavor and depth and pack much less of a glycemic punch,” says
Katie Wells, founder of Wellness Mama, an online resource for women and moms that want to live a healthier life.
The glycemic index (GI) is a value used to measure how much specific foods increase blood sugar levels on a scale of zero to 100, where sugar is 100. Numerous studies have found that following a low GI diet may reduce blood sugar levels and improve blood sugar management in people with Type 2 diabetes.
Monk fruit and unprocessed forms of stevia, a plant-based sweetener, are bloodsugar friendly and nutritious when used alone, but are controversial when combined with erythritol, a sugar alcohol that, based on recent studies, is suspected of increasing the risk for blood clotting, stroke and cardiovascular events.
For Pirello, baking without pseudo sweeteners or processed sugar does a body good while imbuing festive favorites with even deeper flavor. “For me the best options for cookies are coconut sugar and beet sugar as both are granular and can be substituted 1-to-1 in recipes. Both are the color of brown sugar so your cookies may take on a darker color, but the flavor will be amazing. I also use brown rice syrup, but often mixed with coconut or beet sugar.” For the best flavor, Pirello praises 100 percent pure monk fruit, as well as her no-calorie favorite, BochaSweet, which is made from kabocha squash and “tastes and behaves like sugar.”
In addition to coconut sugar, Wells also favors maple syrup and honey, which require an increase in dry ingredients to balance the liquid but add amazing flavor and other
beneficial properties, such as naturally occurring minerals and antioxidants.
Common dates, larger and plumper Medjool dates and other dried fruits can replace conventional sugar with rich sweetness, especially for no-bake holiday cookies and bars. Wells likes the versatility of dried fruits when chopped or blended. She recommends soaking them before using in recipes to help improve their texture.
For cookie dough recipes that do not require much liquid, powdered date sugar can be used in place of sugar 1-for-1 while reducing dry ingredients by 25 percent. Mashed bananas can rock an oatmeal cookie recipe, taking it to another level in terms of flavor without any other added sweeteners.
Common Substitutions
• ¾ cup honey or maple syrup for 1 cup of sugar
• 1 cup of blended dates for any amount of sugar in a recipe
• 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce for 1 cup of sugar
• ¾ cup of mashed ripe bananas for 1 cup of sugar
• For vegan cookies that won’t crumble,
mix 1 tablespoon of finely ground flax seeds with 3 tablespoons warm water to replace 1 egg.
Gluten-Free Delicious
Gluten-free (GF) baking has come a long way with plenty of GF flour options, but knowing which ones to use can make or break a holiday baking spree. “It has never been easier to make gluten-free cookies that taste almost identical to their gluten-based inspirations,” says Wells. “There are even organic, measure-for-measure flours that let you bake the original recipes as written.”
Pirello sees more of a learning curve. “It’s such a challenge to make a good gluten-free cookie, but with products like almond flour out there, you can do it,” she says. “Use a gluten-free flour mix—not a cake or cookie mix—and mix it with 75 percent almond flour to create a moist yummy cookie. They will always be fragile unless you use eggs, but it works for me without them.”
The Secret Ingredients
In the end, baking is all about having fun. “They’re cookies, not world peace, although I think more cookies could bring about world peace,” Pirello quips, suggesting what we all know: love is the secret ingredient in any holiday cookie recipe.
Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.
NARRATED BY MICHAEL BUBLÉ
"Like
- Michael Bublé
CHEWY CHOCOLATE CHIP ALMOND COOKIES
Yield: 28 TO 30 cookies
5 Tbsp vegan butter substitute
¼ cup Suzanne’s Specialties Maple Rice Nectar
6 Tbsp coconut sugar
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt
Pinch of ground cinnamon
1 cup almond flour
½ cup whole wheat pastry flour or sprouted whole wheat flour
½ cup rolled oats
½ cup walnuts, coarsely chopped
⅔ cup non-dairy, dark chocolate chips
Preheat a conventional oven to 350° F or convection oven to 325° F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Whip together vegan butter, rice nectar, coconut sugar, vanilla, sea salt and cinnamon until smooth. Mix in almond flour, wheat flour and oats to form a soft, sticky dough. Fold in nuts and chocolate chips until well-incorporated through the dough.
Scoop tablespoons of dough and arrange on the baking sheets, leaving room for them to grow—approximately 18 cookies on a sheet, three across and six down. Do not press the cookies down.
Bake for 13 minutes. Remove the trays from the oven. Using a small spoon or spatula, slightly and gently flatten the cookies.
Recipe courtesy of Christina Pirello.
A DOCUMENTARY FILM BY HIDEYUKI TOKIGAWA
CHOCOLATE COFFEE COOKIES
Yield: 16 cookies
⅔ cup sprouted whole wheat flour or whole wheat pastry flour
½ tsp baking powder
2 Tbsp arrowroot
Pinch of sea salt
Generous pinch of cinnamon
18 oz dark, non-dairy chocolate, coarsely chopped
4½ oz extra virgin olive oil
2 Tbsp spring or filtered water
3 Tbsp of store-bought egg replacer with 6 Tbsp of water (or mixture of 3 Tbsp finely ground flax seeds with 9 Tbsp warm water) and let sit for one minute to thicken
1 cup coconut sugar
2 Tbsp brewed espresso
5 oz pecans, coarsely chopped
5 oz hazelnuts, coarsely chopped
Preheat oven to 350° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Whisk together flour, baking powder, salt and cinnamon. Place 12 ounces of chocolate and oil in a heat-resistant bowl over simmering water. Cook, stirring occasionally until the chocolate has melted and is creamy and smooth. Set aside.
In a stand mixer, whip the egg replacer, sugar and espresso to combine well. Add the melted chocolate mixture and mix well. By hand, fold in the nuts, the remaining 6 ounces of chocolate and the other dry ingredients to form a soft cookie dough.
Use a spoon to drop 16 (or so) ½-ounce mounds onto the baking sheet, leaving at least two inches between cookies, as they will spread. Bake for 15 minutes or until the tops crackle. Allow to cool completely before transferring to a container.
Recipe courtesy of Christina Pirello.
THUMBPRINT COOKIES WITH JAM
Yield: 36 to 48 cookies
5 Tbsp vegan butter substitute
¼ cup coconut sugar
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
½ cup sprouted whole wheat flour or whole wheat
pastry flour
1 cup fine almond flour
2 Tbsp arrowroot
½ tsp baking soda
Pinch of sea salt
Strawberry or other fruit-sweetened preserves
Preheat oven to 350° F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Place all the ingredients, except the preserves, in a stand mixer and mix until a stiff dough forms.
Form the dough into walnut-size balls and arrange on the baking sheet, allowing about an inch between each cookie for rising. With a wet thumb, make an indentation in each cookie. Using a small spoon, fill the indentation in each cookie with preserves. Bake for 13 to 14 minutes. Remove cookies from the oven and allow to cool completely before transferring to a container.
Recipe courtesy of Christina Pirello.
Meggy Kadam Aryanto from Pexels/CanvaPro
Samuilovs from Izobrazheniya pol’zovatelya Aleksandrs Samuilovs/CanvaPro
Caring for Anxious Pets While We’re Away
How To Choose the Right Kennel or Pet Sitter
by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN
All pets, including cats and dogs, can feel distress when their routine or environment changes. Long-term stress can weaken their immune system, leading to behavioral problems or illness. It is essential to find ways to reduce anxiety when leaving a pet with a kennel or sitter.
Stress During Owner Absence
A report by the animal health company Zoetis, the Federation of European Companion Animal Veterinary Associations and the Human Animal Bond Research Institute shows that the bond between pets and their owners provides both physical and mental benefits. When this bond is interrupted, even temporarily, pets may become anxious. Staying in a kennel or with an unfamiliar pet sitter can cause feelings of insecurity and stress, which can negatively impact their mental health.
Their anxiety may manifest through destructive behaviors, excessive barking or meowing, or aggression. Changes in appetite, pacing and excessive grooming are also common indicators of tension. Pets that are particularly attached to their owners may experience heightened levels of the stress hormone cortisol in their absence, making them more susceptible to anxiety in new environments.
Priorities for Anxious Pets
Beth Hrnciar, a holistic pet health coach and trainer in Connecticut, emphasizes
the importance of considering a pet’s anxiety level when setting care priorities. For pets with mild anxiety, she recommends ensuring the pet sitter is able to provide over-the-counter anxiety relief supplements. “It is also crucial that the kennel or sitter knows how to use calming products, such as a Thundershirt or a calming collar,” Hrnciar advises. For more severe anxiety, she recommends trial runs to help the pet acclimate and
become familiar with the staff. Hrnciar advises. For more severe anxiety, she recommends trial runs to help the pet acclimate and become familiar with the staff. Hrnciar also recommends choosing facilities that offer a safe space for pets that are anxious about fireworks or storms, opting for kennels or sitters with secure enclosures and amenities like white noise machines or calming soundtracks.
Andrea Dean Van Scoyoc, of Port Richey, shares her Peyton Emmanuel (goes by “Guppy”), a 5-y-o rescue “who loves to hang out on the back porch and caterwaul at everything he sees.” And what eyes to see with!
Email your favorite pet picture to Debbey at dwilson@natampa.com for inclusion in the magazine.
Experience, Cleanliness and Routine
“Anxious pets need experienced caregivers,” Hrnciar asserts. “While some anxiety is normal and may decrease as a pet adjusts to a new environment or routine, it is crucial to have someone who can provide a quiet space for them to relax.” Someone without the right experience may not fully understand how frightened an animal is and how they might injure themselves while trying to escape from a stressful situation.
Cleanliness is critical, Hrnciar notes, particularly for pets that self-soothe by chewing. A clean environment prevents infections from unsanitary conditions.
“Dogs thrive on structure,” she says. “Regular feeding and walking schedules help reduce stress in nervous dogs.” Caregivers should maintain the routine established during trial visits, allowing pets to feel more secure by knowing what to expect.
“Cats are creatures of habit,” Hrnciar explains. It is important to keep anxious cats in familiar environments—maintaining their regular routine is key. Pet sitters should avoid introducing new scents or sounds, and, if possible, visit beforehand to build trust with the pet.
Questions for Potential Pet Sitters
“Knowing who will be handling your pet and their qualifications is essential for ensuring the pet’s safety and comfort,” says Hrnciar. To find the right sitter for an anxious pet, ask about their
experience with similar animals. For pets that are wary of strangers, it is important to ensure the sitter understands how to give them space to adjust.
Holistic Strategies
“Socialization should be tailored to each pet. Introduce anxious animals to new settings at their own pace,” Hrnciar advises. For pets that are accustomed to being around other animals, group play can offer comfort and help ease their nerves.
Hrnciar highlights the benefits of calming scents, such as essential oils and pheromone sprays, for reducing stress. Pairing these with calming music or therapeutic tools like pulsed electromagnetic field pads or light therapy can create a soothing environment for anxious pets.
For severe anxiety, Hrnciar recommends natural remedies over pharmaceuticals. “Properly sourced CBD [cannabidiol], calming mushrooms and essential oils can offer significant relief with minimal side effects,” she advises. She also encourages exploring zoopharmacognosy—a method where animals self-select herbs, flowers and other natural remedies to restore balance to their systems. This approach allows pets to tap into their natural instincts, potentially finding relief in a more intuitive way.
Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian and holistic health coach for pets, as well as the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.
Printed calendar is a gratis feature for advertisers. Non-advertisers: get your Mark Your Calendar event listed for $50/listing. Email dwilson@natampa.com for more info. On line version of Calendar of Events gratis at NATampa.com.
Calendar of Events
Wednesday, December 4
Reflect, Release and Reset Holiday Retreat in Costa Rica - Dec. 4-8. Five-Day Reflect, Release & Reset Holiday Retreat in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica. Immerse yourself in a gentle healing vibra-
tion to carry you through to the new year! Connect with yourself and “fill your own cup” at a time in the year when that may not be our biggest concern. Various prices depending on room category. Info and booking, Monica Grajales, 813-586-3656, zngcruisesandretreats.com/reflect-release-reset-holiday-retreat-in-costa-rica.
Saturday, December 7
Hypnosis International Certification Begins - Online interactive w/some “Live” for locals (Oldsmar). Receive 3 Certifications, IACT, UPHI & IHF with Patricia V. Scott, PhD, Master Trainer since 1992. Learn basic/advanced techniques, medical uses, regression, parts-integration, time-line, smoking cessation, weight/diet control, NLP & more. Register with Pay-OverTime Option: $3595 or $3295 (UPHI Mbr). Already Certified: $1995 (220 CEUs). 727943-5003. UPHypnosis.com.
Infertility
Wednesday, December 18
Free Hypnosis-NLP Webinar “Connect to Higher Power” - 7:30-8:30pm. Interactive webinar hosted by Certified Medical Hypnotherapist, Hypnosis & NLP Master Trainer & Ordained Minister, Patricia V. Scott, PhD. With 32 years’ experience, Patti shares practical, easy to use concepts & techniques with Q&A. All welcome 3rd Wednesday monthly w/ various topics. Some webinars include a hypnotic experience. Register for log-in details: UPHypnosis@yahoo.com, UPHypnosis.com.
Wednesday, December 25
Merry Christmas
PLAN AHEAD
Saturday, January 4
Learn more, access valuable resources today, and get your COMPLIMENTARY ACCESS PASS for the January 20 through 25 event SCAN ME
“Your Unlimited Mind” Free On-line Event - 4-9pm. 21st Annual World Hypnotism Day event sponsored by UP Hypnosis Institute & Patricia V. Scott, PhD, features top Hypnosis & NLP experts with fun, informative seminars & hypnotic experiences. Registration options: Free (Access to online event “Live”) or $25 (Access to online event PLUS video replays & bonus prizes ($150-plus value!). 727-9435003. UPHypnosis.com.
Ongoing Events
Sunday
Free Dianetics Film - 10am-10pm, Mon-Fri. 9am-6pm, SatSun. What Happens When We are Unconscious? In this 30-minute film, Dianetics explains the discovery of the Reactive Mind for the source of your fears, insecurity, phobias and nightmares. 1300 E 8th Ave., Tampa, 813-872-0723.
Monday
Meacham Urban Farm - 3-7pm Mon. & Fri. Homegrown and high quality, all-organic produce onsite. What they do not produce themselves, they source from other local farmers, ranchers, bakers and artisans, including a variety of vegetables, fruits, breads, meats, eggs, honey, ferments, raw dairy, soaps, flowers, plants and more. The Farm Store is open to the public every weekend, no membership needed! 1108 E Scott St. (downtown), Tampa. Learn more, MeachamFarm.com.
Feldenkrais with Bonnie K - 5:45pm, until Dec 18. Online! Awareness Through Movement classes: Lessons (in chairs/on floor) are designed to quiet non-working habitual patterns, invite you into a process for learning and offer experiences for more efficient movement. Ongoing classes - movement lessons w/replays. More info, 941-360-2248. FeldenkraisInSarasota. com. Register with Bonnie at: FeldenkraisinSarasota.com/Sarasota-Classes-Feldenkrais/
Gentle Yoga Flow - 6-7:30pm. Concentrates on flowing sequences to warm up the body using breathing and postures. It is designed for students looking for slower paced movements, gentle stretching or are new to yoga. No experience required. Facilitated by Kelley of Rooted Sol Yoga. Space is limited. $15/class. Six Oaks Wellness, Garden Suite, 607 1st. Ave. SW, Largo. Rsvp 727-776-0519.
Wednesday
Feldenkrais with Bonnie K - 11am, until Dec 18. Online! Awareness Through Movement classes: Lessons (in chairs/on floor) are designed to quiet non-working habitual patterns, invite you into a process for learning and offer experiences for more efficient movement. Ongoing classes - movement lessons w/ replays. More info, 941-360-2248. FeldenkraisInSarasota.com Register with Bonnie at: FeldenkraisinSarasota.com/SarasotaClasses-Feldenkrais/
Gentle Yoga Flow - 6-7:30pm. Concentrates on flowing sequences to warm up the body using breathing and postures. It is designed for students looking for slower paced movements, gentle stretching or are new to yoga. No experience required. Facilitated by Kelley of Rooted Sol Yoga. Space is limited. $15/class. Six Oaks Wellness, Garden Suite, 607 1st Ave. SW, Largo. Rsvp 727-776-0519.
Yoga Session: Hatha Yoga with a Therapist -6:30-7:30ish pm. Join Elizabeth Rice, LCSW ACE CFI, for a yoga session that will not only strengthen your mind-body connection, but will help you to get in deeper touch with your inner calm. Space is limited, reserve now. $15/per session. 6251 Park Blvd., Ste. 9, Pinellas Park. 727-346-5875.
Thursday
Shamanic Sound Healing Journeys - 7-8:30pm. Using our multidimensional soundscapes and psychedelic videos will take you on a deep dive within Self, where knowledge, guidance and wisdom are abundant. Event takes place in virtual reality
which can be accessed via computer or with VR headsets (ideal). Free. Host: JoAnn Shivanti | VRchat.com VITAL.3731 | World: Psychedelic Caverns. Info, 3rdeyeguidance.com/events, 727-4347433, shivanti@3rdeyeguidance.com
Saturday
Meacham Urban Farm - 9am-1pm Sat. 10am-1pm Sun. Homegrown and high quality, all-organic produce onsite. What they do not produce themselves, they source from other local farmers, ranchers, bakers and artisans, including a variety of vegetables, fruits, breads, meats, eggs, honey, ferments, raw dairy, soaps, flowers, plants and more. The Farm Store is open to the public every weekend, no membership needed! 1108 E Scott St. (downtown), Tampa. Learn more, MeachamFarm.com.
GROW
YOUR BUSINESS
Secure this ad spot! Contact us for ad rates. 727-865-9339
Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community.
Acupuncture
ACUPUNCTURE & ORIENTAL MEDICINE
Chris Dziubinski, DOM, AP, L. Ac 12952 N Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa 813-935-CARE (2273)
MindBodySpiritCare.com
Florida Board Certified Acupuncture Physician offering acupuncture therapies for the whole family. Established, comfortable, caring and professional integrative medicine clinics in South & North Tampa. Innetwork with most medical insurances; accept payments from HRA, HSA and FSA.
Alternative Medicine
LIFEWORKS WELLNESS CENTER
Dr. David Minkoff, M.D.
Dr. Griselle Figueredo, M.D.
Dr. Neena Iyer, M.D., Dr. Dawn Frankwick M.D. Sue Morgan, APRN, Karima Redouan, APRN
Rose Tyler, APRN
301 Turner St., Clearwater 727-466-6789
LifeWorksWellnessCenter.com
Specializing in Ozone Therapy, IV Therapy, Heavy Metal Detoxification, Neurological Issues, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, Gut Issues, Thyroid Issues and IPT for Cancer treatment. See ad inside front cover.
ORTHOMOLECULAR NUTRITION & WELLNESS
9225 Ulmerton Rd., Ste. 312, Largo 727-518-9808
OrthoLiving.com
We address the underlying root cause of disease by using a variety of modalities such as Nutrient IV’s, Chelation, Weight loss, HRT, PEMF, Ozone Therapy and more. To see if you qualify for Medical Marijuana go to OrthoMMJ.com.
PROFESSIONAL HERBALISTS TRAINING PROGRAM
Acupuncture & Herbal Therapies 2520 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727-551-0857
AcuHerbals.com
The 2-year program meets one weekend each month for class and Wednesday nights for our hands-on student clinic. This program is designed to create clinical herbalists in a combination of Chinese and western herbalism. Designed to meet American Herbalists Guild standards. See ad page 18.
Dr. Grossgold practices internal medicine and pediatrics with an integrative approach to detoxification, anti-aging medicine, functional medicine and nutrition. His clinic offers Integrative Cancer Treatment, Cryotherapy, Hyperbaric, EBOO, MHA, UVBI, Theta Chamber and more! See ad page 13.
Clinical herbalist and massage therapist offering consultations, extensive line of Eastern/Western Herbs, Teas, Essential oils, CBD, Supplements, and learning workshops. Visit your neighborhood apothecary today! See ad page 25.
Second-generation astrologer and Soul Evolutionist practitioner. Over 25 years of experience. Insightful, unique perspective on goals and issues. “Together we will unveil your soul’s purpose.”
ASTROLOGY TRANSITS
Scherezade Lozano
305-560-3429
AstrologyTransits.com
Unlock your potential with expert astrology guidance. 20 years’ experience delivering accurate readings to uncover core aspects of personality, emotions, health, finances, and life patterns.
Joy is the simplest form of gratitude.
—Karl Barth
Colon Hydrotherapy
RENEW LIFE
Bonnie Barrett 28469 US Hwy 19 N. #402, Clearwater 727-461-7227
RenewLifeFla.com, Lic# MA14802, MM35406 30 years experience. Expert in colon hydrotherapy using pressure points, abdominal massage, essential oils, and lymphatic drainage. All disposable tubing used. Very comfortable and relaxing room with private bathroom. See ad page 33.
PROFESSIONAL
LYMPHATIC THERAPY AND COLONICS, LLC
Laura M. Turley, LMT and Owner 9371 US 19N, Suite B, Pinellas Park 727-492-0060
ProfessionalLymphaticTherapy.com MM39888, MA88928
Complementing detoxification via “Lymphatic Therapy” (see listing), now offering Gravity Method colonics (closed system method), known to be gentler and more effective than other methods. See ad page 23.
THE GROSSGOLD CLINIC
Lisa Harris-Dalton 609 Lakeview Rd., Clearwater 727-330-3844
TheGClinic.org #MA27502, #MM43949
Compassionate therapist with 26+ years’ experience in massage therapy and open and closed colon hydrotherapy systems. Skilled in collaborating with clients/physicians to optimize wellness goals. See ad page 13.
Dentists
BEATA CARLSON, DDS 1825 Sunset Point Rd, Clearwater 727-888-6523
NaturalAndCosmeticDentistry.com
Natural, Holistic, Aesthetic Dentistry. Careful Silver filling removal. Non-metal crowns and bridges. Be pampered in our Spalike atmosphere. See ad back cover.
CARLO LITANO, DMD
Natural Smiles of Tampa Bay 132 Mirror Lake Dr., Suite 101, St. Petersburg 727-300-0044, Natural-Smiles.com
Offering Holistic/Biological dentistry. Swiss dental protocols, ceramic implants, safe mercury removal, ozone cleaning and on site sedation. See ad page 4.
PAUL T. RODEGHERO, DDS
Clearwater Family Dental
215 S Myrtle Ave., Clearwater 727-442-3363
MyClearWaterFamilyDental.com
We are a full service family dental practice that stresses metal free restorations, safe mercury removal, ozone and laser dentistry. We welcome patients of all ages and can handle any concern that you may have. See ad pages 3, 7 & 15.
ROBERT J. YU, DMD
Tampa Bay Dental Implants & Periodontics
6700 Crosswinds Dr., Ste. 200-B, St. Pete 727-384-9122
TBPerio.com
The only board certified periodontist and implant surgeon in Tampa Bay offering ceramic/zirconia nonmetal implants. State-of-the-art treatments include CBT imaging, LANAP and digital intraoral scanner, eliminating messy impressions. See ad page 8.
Hypnosis
UNLIMITED POSSIBILITIES HYPNOSIS, INC.
Patricia V. Scott, President 727-943-5003
UPHypnosis@yahoo.com, UPHypnosis.com
Professional Hypnosis & NLP Certification Training, Weekly classes & Private sessions (Smoking, Weight, Stress, Sports, Habits), Clinical/Medical Hypnotherapy available w/referral. Speaking Services & Corporate Programs. See ad page 33.
Integrative Gynecology
THE GROSSGOLD CLINIC
Dr. Salome Masghati, MD 609 Lakeview Rd., Clearwater 727-330-3844
TheGClinic.org
Renowned, board-certified gynecologist focusing on a diverse range of women’s health issues. Commitment to holistic well-being coupled with an extensive medical background ensures exceptional care. See ad page 13.
Integrative Medicine
INTEGRATIVE THERAPEUTICS
Dr. Prudhvi Karumanchi
8320 Stone Run Ct., Tampa 33615 813-322-6171
IntTherapeutics.com
Committed to finding the root cause, Holistic MD offers: IV Nutrition, Regenerative Treatments, Functional Medicine, Heavy Metal Detox, Energy Healing, Weight Loss, Anti-aging and more. Out-of-Network Provider.
MIND BODY SPIRIT CARE
Ron N. Shemesh, M.D.
12952 N Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa 813-935-CARE (2273)
MindBodySpiritCare.com
Integrative & holistic medicine for women & men: Natural Hormone Therapy, Anti-Aging, IV Chelation, Nutritional Vitamin Therapy, Fatigue & Stress Management, Weight Loss, Yoga, Nutritional Counseling. Affiliated with St. Joseph Hospital. Most insurance accepted.
PEAKS OF HEALTH METABOLIC MEDICAL CENTER
Tracie Leonhardt, DO 1120 Belcher Rd. S., Ste. 2, Largo 727-826-0838
PeaksOfHealth.com
Dr. Leonhardt is Board Certified & Fellow of the American Academy of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine. Offers a personalized program for each individual patient. Hormone replacement therapy, weight loss, thyroid, GI issues, Diabetes, infrared sauna, IV nutrition, Anti-aging, Chronic fatigue, adrenal fatigue, and toxicities. See ad page 11.
SUCCESS BY DESIGN
9095 Belcher Road, Pinellas Park 727-548-0001
SBDWellness.com
A Wellness Center for Age-Management, Functional Medicine and Medical Weight Loss.
Specializing in Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement including Pellet Therapy, Gut Health/Food Allergies, Detoxification, Nutritional Evaluations, Acupuncture, Massage therapy and more. See ad page 6.
RESTORING WELLNESS
Jaimie Mickey, M.D. 10597 US Hwy. 19 North, Pinellas Park 727-351-1700
RestoringWellnessMD.com
Specializing in optimization of bodily systems, including Hormonal; Thyroid; Adrenal; Metabolic Heart and Vascular; Immune and Digestive. IV nutrition therapies and regenerative joint treatments with prolozone. See ad page 21.
Lymphatic Therapy
PROFESSIONAL LYMPHATIC THERAPY AND COLONICS, LLC
Laura M. Turley, LMT and Owner 9371 US 19N, Suite B, Pinellas Park 727-492-0060
ProfessionalLymphaticTherapy.com MM39888, MA88928
Specializing in manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) and lymphatic enhancement therapy (LET). Professional Lymphatic helps those with challenging conditions including inflammation, mold toxicity; auto-immune conditions, post chemo healing, etc. See ad page 23.
CManual and Assisted Lymphatic Therapy & Colon Hydrotherapy with I-ACT Training. Longtime health and wellness advocate with 24+ years’ experience in massage and colonic therapies. See ad page 13.
Psychologist
ELIZABETH RICE, LCSW 6251 PARK BLVD., STE. 9C, PINELLAS PARK 33781 727-300-9382
esLifeCoach.com, License SW15178
Heal the whole being including body, mind, spirit and emotions. Increase your quality of life; facilitate emotional healing. Specializing in Anxiety, Mood, Behavior, Trauma, Family. See ad page 23.
Reflexology
REED ‘NAHAM’ MYLES
Certified Reflexologist and LMT 727-543-3048 by appointment Clearwater, MA0028171
RV Resort
BARE RV RESORT
6901 Caliente Blvd.
Land O’Lakes 34637
813-996-6008
BareRVResort.com
Whether you need deep therapy, a tuneup or just a relaxing treatment, I can help you. Just call me.
Thermography
GREENPOINT THERMOGRAPHY
John D. Bartone MD 7901 4th Street North, Suite 316
St. Petersburg, FL 33702
727-576-0100
GreenPointThermography.com
The only physician owned and operated thermography practice in Tampa Bay – serving Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco counties. Accredited by the American College of Clinical Thermology. See ad page 10.
FLORIDA MEDICAL THERMOGRAPHY
June Drennon, CCT 2008
JuneDrennon@
FloridaMedicalThermography.com 727-729-2711
FloridaMedicalThermography.com
A clothing optional oasis, resort and campground perfect for first-time nudists. Women owned/operated, offering a welcoming and relaxing environment to be at one with nature.
Spiritual MRI: Clairvoyant scan of physical, emotional, mental and spiritual bodies. Shamanic sound healing; chakra & aura reading; past life clearing. Free consultation.t life clearing. Free consultation.
Spiritual Intuitive
UNIVERSOULLIGHT CONSULTING
Rev. Amanda Segovia, Reiki Master
Certified SRT Personal Consultant
UniverSoulLight.com
UniverSoulLight@gmail.com
Private sessions using various healing, clearing & spiritual modalities. Akashic Records, Intuitive Medium, Astrologer, Personalized Astrology Reports, Numerologist, Meditation, Chakra-Balancing, Tarot/Oracles, Candles, EOL Transition, Teacher/ Mentor & more.
Certified Clinical Thermographer 2008. Mindful Wellness with Thermography! Knowledge is power: Know your risk factors to make corrections and avoid developing pathology. Call for location convenient for you. See ad page 8.
Veterinarian
HEALTHY PAWSIBILITIES NATURAL PET WELLNESS CENTER
Dr. Cathy Alinovi, DVM 912 Drew St., Suite 102, Clearwater 727-510-3665
HealthyPawsibilities.com
Offering only holistic health options. Nutrition, herbal support, body balancing, canine fitness, reiki and more. See ad page 41.
PAWSITIVE VETERINARY CARE
Shawna L. Green, DVM 11125 Park Blvd., Ste 108, Seminole 727-299-9029
Compassionate health care catered toward the needs of your pet, offering preventative medicine, surgery, dentistry, senior wellness, and more. See ad page 41.
C ARIBBBEAN ISL AND CRUISE & AIR FARE
Plus
• VIP Event Tickets
• Author-Signed Books
• Natural Beauty Products
• Health Programs and more!
Pr izes Cour tesy of Sponsors and Exhibitors of THE BES T PREP FOR PREGNANCY EVENT AND EXPO
