Natural Awakenings Tampa Bay September 2021 by debbey wilson

E E HEALTHY LIVING R

HEALTHY

PLANET

HORSES AS HEALERS WHY EQUINE THERAPY IS EFFECTIVE

YOGA FOR TRAUMA RELIEF INTEGRATIVE PAIN MANAGEMENT HOW TO CHOOSE NON-TOXIC POTS AND PANS

September 2021 | Tampa Bay-Edition | NATampa.com September 2021

Tampa Bay Edition

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September 2021

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

TAMPA BAY EDITION PUBLISHER Debbey Wilson EDITOR Cheryl Hynes DESIGN & PRODUCTION Patrick Floresca CONTRIBUTING WRITER Eleanor Bailey SALES & MARKETING Debbey Wilson CIRCULATION MANAGER Dean Wille ACCOUNTING Susan Hoffman WEBSITE Kyle Hass OPERATIONS Amy Hass

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Breast Health

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Living a Simpler Life

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Contents 23 ART'S EMBRACE

26 20

Healing Through Creativity

26 YOGA TO HEAL TRAUMA Soothing Poses Calm the Nervous System

28 HEALTHY COOKWARE How to Choose Non-Toxic Pots and Pans

30 CREATIVE KIDS

How to Nurture Imagination

32 CONQUERING CHRONIC PAIN

How the Body-Mind Connection Works

34 FORAGED FUNGI FARE Cooking with Wild Mushro oms

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38 THE POWER OF THE WRITTEN NOTE

40 HORSES AS HEALERS Equine Therapy has Physical and Emotional Benefits

DEPARTMENTS 12 news briefs 16 health briefs 18 global briefs 26 fit body 28 green living 30 healthy kids

32 34 38 40 43 44

healing ways conscious eating inspiration natural pet calendar resource guide

letter from publisher

ime flies when you’re keeping up and having fun. It’s a matter of balance, as readers of this magazine come to know. Every issue is inspirational, its potential empowerment divine. With this September issue, we welcome the promise of Autumn 2021 and a whole crop of good news and views. Creative approaches and developments in the natural health community continue to astound me. As ever, this month’s Natural Awakenings Tampa Bay is packed with insights on how to achieve holistic health via natural healing, here, now and beyond. September is National Yoga Month and our Bay Area is especially dynamic in this arena. There is an awesome array of yoga centers throughout our community, with the cream of the crop represented on these pages. Increasing numbers of us are coming to understand that the practice of yoga can have a profound effect on holistic well-being, along with the enhanced self-awareness, stress reduction and healing balance it promotes. In this month’s feature article, Art’s Embrace: Healing Through Creativity, writer Sandra Yeyati offers a delightful overview of an exciting and emerging healing form with enormous potential. This month’s Green Living Department features writer Amy Cole’s article, Healthy Cookware, How to Choose Non-Toxic Pots and Pans. One of my personal favorites! As always, with an open heart and an open mind, I hope you enjoy reading on.

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Living a Simpler Life plus Breast Health

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news briefs

Intuitive Healing Sessions Being Offered

Tiffany Barber, APRN Joins Young Health Center

hrough yoga and intuitive healing, Ronni Ford has helped individuals understand and alleviate issues holding them back from living a more vibrant, purposeful and often pain-free life. A yoga instructor for the past 22 years, Ford’s holistic approach is toward flexibility and strength. In a personal Intuitive Crystal Healing session, Ford, guided by the client’s body, detects and alleviates or “opens space” for necessary healing. Lessons of this lifetime are brought to the surface to continue to move forward. Crystals are placed on the body for a vibrational shift where needed as well as a few select essential oils to invoke an energetic shift. Ford is a huge proponent of self-healing. She cured her childhood asthma at the age of 12 through breathing, nutritional changes and practices including yoga, self-awareness and self-applied techniques of energy healing. Her knowledge of healing and how the body “works” comes from her earlier registered nursing days and years later from renowned yoga and energy healers at Omega Institute in Rhinebeck, New York. She also spent 17 years in the Caribbean sharing her gifts of yoga and healing, most recently working closely with those experiencing PTSD after Hurricane Irma. She now lives and maintains a private practice in Dunedin. For more information and appointments, call 340-626-9642 or email RonniFordyeh@gmail.com. See ad page 45.

oung Foundational Health Center welcomes to their staff Tiffany Barber, APRN. A true Floridian, Barber was born and raised in a small town north of Tampa. She earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Anthropology with a focus in Biocultural studies and a Master of Science in Nursing. She spent several years practicing as an RN in orthopedics at a local hospital before pursuing her goal of becoming a nurse practitioner. Barber graduated from the USF’s Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner program and is a member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society. She is Board Certified in Adult Gerontology Acute Care with an additional certification in Orthopedics. In her spare time, Barber is cycling (having participated in 165-mile bike rides from Miami to Key West, five times), kayaking and hiking. She enjoys spending time with her husband and their black Lab Spartacus. Location: 7241 Bryan Dairy Rd., Largo. For more information and appointment, call 727-545-4600 and/or visit YoungFoundationalHealth.com. See ad page 5.

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Bodhi Massage Therapy & Wellness Welcomes New Energy Worker

eeling anxious, down or unbalanced? Perhaps you may benefit from some energy work—sessions involving energy medicine that can help to restore balance to the mind, body and energy/spirit. Bodhi Massage Therapy & Wellness welcomes Helen Mallory, a longstanding and talented energy worker and massage therapist specializing in deep relaxation techniques, including Reiki, The Bars and Theta. With Mallory’s demeanor and more than three decades of energetic healing experience in play, one is instantly eased into a space of calm and peace. Mallory will provide her own signature session—90-minutes of harmonizing and energy balancing, beginning with dry skin brushing; a relaxing massage with lavender and arnica; Reiki and Tibetan singing bowls to balance the chakras; completing the session with an aromatherapy scalp massage and hot towel compresses. This healing experience will serve to delight the senses while renewing the overall being. Other services Mallory offers include organic body scrubs and wraps; warm Himalayan salt stone massage; prenatal massage; Swedish massage; deep tissue, customized and aromatherapy massages. Location: 506 Pasadena Ave. S, St. Petersburg. For more information and to schedule an appointment, call 727-344-9857 and/or visit Bodhi-MassageTherapy.com. See ad page 27.

Grammy, Multi-Platinum Pianist/ Composer Peter Kater in Concert at Unity of Tampa

ome to Unity of Tampa, at 7 p.m., on October 3, for an amazing, soul-inspiring evening with Peter Kater at the piano. Enjoy his spiritually awakening music in Unity of Tampa’s recently renovated sanctuary at their new location, 2610 Silver Lake Avenue, Tampa. From solo piano and contemporary jazz ensembles to full orchestral works, Kater’s New Age/crossgenre music is heard all over the world, from the Olympics to Carnegie Hall. He has been a leading innovator of contemporary instrumental music for over three decades. His music has been described as “a stream of healing energy.” Accolades include 14 Grammy Award nominations and two Grammy wins. Kater has released over 70 critically acclaimed recordings and scored the music for more than 100 television and film productions. “If you want to be utterly transported, you want the magic and the music of Peter Kater.” ~ Neale Donald Walsch, author of Conversations with God Cost: Tickets are $25/advance, $30/day of/door. To purchase, visit BrightStarEvents.com or email TampaUnity@gmail.com.

September 2021

Wings Celebrates with Expanded Offerings

TCL Medical Offers Holistic Family Medicine

oin in celebrating the one-year anniversary of the rebirth of Wings Metaphysical, in St. Pete. Known for offering a fantastic array of gifts, books and jewelry in addition to crystals and tools for the mystic, this store has something for everyone. Alexandra and staff maintain an abundant stream of items to delight and surprise all who enter this high vibe space. In just one year, the crystal department has tripled in size; as well their increased selection of tarot and oracle cards. The store represents “All Paths to The Divine” with beautiful displays set up for each belief system, including select items and reading material representing Christ Consciousness, Ascended Masters and Angels, Buddhism, Hinduism, Native American Culture, Celtic, Druidism, Wicca, and Goddess Energy, among other select themes. Between the amazing energy of the crystals and the heavenly fragrance emanating from a wall of incense, one can feel uplifted just by entering this space. A selection of classes, courses and private one-on-one readings are also available and descriptions can be found on their website, WingsBookstore.com. Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., daily. Location: 4500 4th St. North, St. Petersburg. For more information, call 727-522-6657 or visit WingsBookstore.com. See ad page 17.

CL Medical is committed to identifying the “root cause” for whatever ails as this is a first step to whole/holistic living. Recently opened at 6613 49th Street North, in Pinellas Park, TCL offers family medicine, tailored to suit the individual’s needs of the moment. With the intent of providing patients with affordable, leading edge, quality health care, TCL offers integrative and holistic medicine, including weight loss; anti-aging; IV hydration (including IV vitamin C, IV ozone, glutathione, chelation); concierge services (home visits, phone visits, next day appointments, tele-health visits); natural muscle enhancement; substance abuse management; and more. TCL Founder Islam Ganie, PN, ADN, BSN, MSN, RN, FNPBC, APRN expresses that their ability to highly personalize patient services allows them to resolve the health concerns of their patients rather than merely treating them. Commonly addressed areas include fatigue and stress; gut and thyroid issues; chelation (heavy metal detox); asthma/respiratory issues; nutritional evaluation; diabetes; cardiovascular disease; nutritional vitamin therapy; cancer support; radiation support; and nutritional education. For more information and to book an appointment, call 727-954-4543 or email tclmedic@gmail.com. See TCL_Medical on Instagram and TCL Medical on Facebook. See ad page 45.

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Integral Awareness Meditation

or 30 years, Larry Castellani, Ph.D. taught college philosophy, and for 26 of those years meditation. He is now offering meditation sessions in Clearwater. Having worked with hundreds of people inquiring into the nature and experience of meditation, his goal is to help each client find that inner peace and happiness—their birthright. He works with young and old, experienced and beginners, religious and spiritual as well as secularly oriented seekers. In integral awareness meditation, Castellani leads those with experience in meditation beyond the doing of meditative practices to the experience of meditation as the pure consciousness of inner peace and happiness. One will discover that meditation is an effortless abiding in one’s true nature as pure consciousness, not a stressful practice of concentration or mindful attention. Today, many people won’t try meditation or they lose touch with their meditation thinking it’s another thing to “do” rather than recognizing it as a state of being/awareness, which awakens the heart of consciousness to one’s essential self as inner peace and happiness, love and freedom. It is not an action or means to get something that you do not already have. Integral awareness meditation is the whole you—the fulfillment we all seek. For more information, call 716-816-5464 or email I.Am.Meditation108@gmail.com. See ad page 46.

Rose Tyler, APRN Joins LifeWorks Wellness Center

r. David Minkoff and his team at LifeWorks Wellness Center, in Clearwater, welcome Rose Tyler, APRN, to their staff. Tyler earned her Associates in Nursing in 2009 from Missouri State University, West Plains, Missouri. In 2018, she earned her Master’s in Nursing from South University, Tampa, Florida. She is board certified through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Working nearly 10 years as an RN before becoming a nurse practitioner, Tyler’s focus included gastrointestinal issues and cardiology. Upon becoming a nurse practitioner, she worked in a primary care office for two years. “In this role, I treated a wide variety of illness and health conditions across the lifespan. I love helping patients overcome their condition and be able to live life to the fullest,” Tyler shares. As a board certified family nurse practitioner providing care to cancer patients at LifeWorks, Tyler explains, “I administer the IPT (Insulin Potentiation Therapy) treatment which involves low dose chemo. It brings me joy knowing that I am helping our patients fight cancer in a way that is not detrimental to the body.” Location: 301 Turner St., Clearwater. For more information and/or to schedule an appointment, call 727-466-6789 or visit LifeWorksWellnessCenter.com. See ad page 2.

September 2021

health briefs

Plant-Based Meals Reduce Severe COVID-19 Risks

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Eating more plants than meat is not only good for the planet, it might also be protective against COVID-19 severity, reports a new study in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health. Researchers from Johns Hopkins and other universities analyzed web-based responses from almost 2,900 frontline doctors and nurses in the U.S., France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK that had been significantly exposed to COVID-19, 95 percent of which were doctors and 70 percent males. Those that ate a plant-based diet, described as high in vegetables, legumes and nuts, and low in poultry and meats, were 73 percent less likely to contract moderate to severe COVID-19. Those with pescatarian diets allowing fish were 59 percent less likely. However, those following low-carbohydrate, highprotein diets had 48 percent greater odds of moderate to severe COVID-19. “Our results suggest that a healthy Eating two servings of fruit a day lowers the risk of diet rich in nutrient-dense foods may be considered for developing Type 2 diabetes by 36 percent protection against severe in five years compared to eating less than COVID-19,” researchers half a serving, suggests research from concluded. Australia’s Edith Cowan University Institute for Nutrition Research. The study followed 7,676 people and found that higher total fruit intake of apples, bananas, oranges and other citrus fruits was linked to better measures of glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. The same pattern did not hold for fruit juice. Previous U.S. cohort studies have found that eating three servings per week of certain fruits lowers the risk of Type 2 diabetes by the following percentages: blueberries (26 percent), grapes and raisins (12 percent), apples and pears (7 percent) and bananas and grapefruits (5 percent). Three servings of cantaloupe, however, raises the risk by 10 percent.

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Healthy Choices Mitigate Cognitive Health Reduction

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A Chinese study of 6,160 adults 80 or older found that a healthy lifestyle cuts the risk of cognitive impairment by half, even if a person carries the APOE ε4 gene that is linked to cognitive loss and Alzheimer’s. Researchers used data from the ongoing Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey to determine the eating, exercising and smoking habits of subjects. They found that those with healthy lifestyles were 55 percent less likely to be cognitively impaired and those with intermediately healthy lifestyles lowered their risk 28 percent. This reduction was greater than the increased risk of cognitive impairment resulting from the APOE ε4 gene, which was 17 percent.

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Certain Fruits Can Protect Against Diabetes

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Lower Pregnancy Risks with a Healthy Diet Expectant mothers that follow a healthy diet from conception through the second trimester lower their risk of such pregnancy complications as gestational diabetes, hypertension, preeclampsia and preterm delivery, concludes a new study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Researchers from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development surveyed nearly 1,900 women at two points in their pregnancies. Their responses were scored according to three measures of healthy eating: the Alternate Healthy Eating Index, Alternate Mediterranean Diet and Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension Diet. All three emphasize consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and legumes, while limiting red and processed meat.

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Stay in Tune with Our Body Clock to Sidestep the Blues Being an early bird or night owl is more than a matter of preference: A person’s natural rhythms are dictated by 351 genetic variants, scientists have found. New research published in Molecular Psychiatry shows that sleeping out of sync with that inborn body clock makes a person more likely to experience depression, anxiety and reduced well-being. Researchers from the UK University of Exeter used genetic data on more than 450,000 people to determine their natural body clocks, including whether they identified themselves as a morning or evening person. Data from the digital wrist devices of 85,000 people was also used to measure the “social jet lag” of variations in sleep patterns between work and free days—when early birds stay up late to socialize on weekends or night owls wake up early for work. The researchers found that being genetically programmed to be an early riser protects against major depression and improves well-being, perhaps because society’s 9-to-5 working pattern coincides with early risers. Generally, morning people had a lower BMI and were older, more likely to be female, of higher socioeconomic status and less likely to be current smokers than evening people. September 2021

Finny Friendship

global briefs

Worldwide Shark Extinction Risk

Wild Bees Thrive on Forest Deadwood

A study by Global FinPrint (Tinyurl.com/ SharkMap) discovered sharks to be absent from many of the world’s coral reefs, indicating they are “functionally extinct”, that is, too rare to fulfill their normal role in the ecosystem. Of the 371 reefs surveyed in 58 countries and territories, sharks were not observed on nearly 20 percent, indicating a widespread decline that has gone undocumented on this scale until now. Other studies of shark populations show a decrease of more than 70 percent over the last 50 years. According to nonprofit Oceana, more than 73 million sharks are killed and traded annually. An article in Nature lists overfishing as the primary cause and found that three-quarters of shark species are threatened with extinction. On June 8, World Oceans Day, the Senate took steps to ban U.S. commercial shark fin trade. The Shark Fin Sales Elimination Act is part of the broader United States Innovation and Competition Act. Similar legislation has been introduced in Congress with more than 130 bipartisan cosponsors, but has not yet become law. Industry resource SeafoodSource notes that fishing industries in the U.S. have traditionally opposed bans, citing our successful management of shark fisheries. mike/Pexels.com

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Scientists from the University of Freiburg surveyed the German Black Forest National Park to determine the number of tree species, how the trees are scattered, the heights of individual tree crowns and if there are fallen trees or hollowed-out tree trunks. They found that creating deadwood in coniferous forests is a promising restoration measure to promote an abundance of aboveground nesting bees. Their findings, “Wild Bees Benefit from Structural Complexity Enhancement in a Forest Restoration Experiment,” were published in the journal Forest Ecology and Management. As part of an experiment, structural richness was artificially created in 2016 on several sample plots by felling and uprooting 20 spruce trees per plot, creating deadwood and small gaps. Six other plots were left in their natural state as a control group. The researchers compared how many wild bees were in the different plots in June 2018 and 2019. Results show that deadwood increases the abundance and biodiversity of wild bees. Professor Dr. Alexandra Klein, head of the Chair of Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, says, “In the course of climate change, forest areas will be increasingly characterized by deadwood and sparse areas Wealth Distribution Linked to Urban Canopies caused by storms, droughts or bark beetles. As a result, forest It’s not surprising that more urban trees lower the levels of heat and pollution. Although many cities maintain tree-planting programs, not all canopies have habitat will increase in imporequivalent value. A new analysis from the American Forests conservation organitance for wild bees.” zation states that the U.S needs to plant more than half a billion trees across 500 metropolitan areas and 150,000 local communities. A new Tree Equity Score data tool (TreeEquityScore.org) allows users to see where urban trees exist and where they don’t. American Forests identified 20 large American cities that are lacking in canopies to protect their populations from hotter temperatures. Tree canopies are particularly effective in reducing health stress associated with urban heat “islands”. It was also found that a pattern of inequitable distribution of trees has deprived many communities of the health and other benefits that sufficient tree cover can deliver. Communities of color have 33 percent less tree canopy on average than majority white communities. Jad Daley, American Forests president and CEO, says, “We need to make sure the trees go where the people are, and more than 70 percent of the people live in cities or suburbs, so it’s a place-based problem with a place-based solution.”

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Sweet Shade

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Alternative Medicine “The Alternative Medicine program at EU is an awesome program and the professors are always wonderful, with their knowledge and experience in the field. They share their stories and real-life scenarios they’ve dealt with in the industry, while ensuring that we know how helpful this type of practice truly is and will become. The instructors have all helped fuel my passion for this and you can actually apply the material learned from the lectures in real life.” Julia Lowell, 2020, Bachelor’s in Alternative Medicine

EvergladesUniversity.edu Tampa • Sarasota • Orlando • Boca Raton • Miami • Online Everglades University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award bachelor’s and master’s degrees. September 2021

Hormone Pelleting Therapy Implantable Time Released Bio-Identical Hormones by Les Cole, MD What is Pelleting Therapy? Hormone Pelleting has been around for some time and many patients love its simplicity. These are bio-identical hormones that are identical to the ones your own body produced before you experienced menopause or andropause. They are not drugs or pharmaceuticals but rather herbal extracts— derived from yams! Why is BHRT important? The importance of bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is that it not only eliminates symptoms of menopause and andropause, it helps to slow aging and many disease processes while also decreasing risk of death.

contractors. Sex hormones are anabolic— they support protein. Testosterone is the most anabolic. As we age, our anabolic hormones decrease and our catabolic hormones—the ones that break down proteins—tend to increase. So, during menopause and andropause, you are no longer supporting your contractors. The use of BHRT improves your contractors and has a profound anti-aging effect. The research on this is clear. At St. Petersburg Health & Wellness, we use BHRT pellets for both men and women. Your individual dose is calculated based on your symptoms, hormone levels

How does it do that? Your genes do one thing—they carry the code to make your proteins. They are your architects in that they have the plans for how your body works. Your proteins—made from your genes—get all the work of your cells, tissues, organs and body done. They are your 20

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and your anabolic/catabolic balance. This hormonal balancing both relieves your symptoms and improves your health and additionally and beneficially has significant anti-aging effects. Estrogen has over 400 beneficial effects and testosterone has been shown to reduce death compared to those with lower levels of same. Who should have BHRT pelleting? If you have any symptoms associated with menopause or andropause, if your hormone levels are imbalanced and/or your anabolic/catabolic balance is shifted toward catabolism, you are a candidate. If you are 35 or older—even if you have not yet reached menopause but may be experiencing unexplained depression, anxiety or fatigue, hot flashes, weight gain or bone loss—you might be a candidate. To learn more and for an appointment, call 727-202-6807. St. Petersburg Health & Wellness is located at 2100 Dr. MLK Jr. St. North, St. Petersburg. See ad right.

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ART’S EMBRACE Healing Through Creativity by Sandra Yeyati

rt can be a powerful force for healing. Its potential manifests in a disabled man’s triumphant dance or cancer patient’s stirring self-portrait. Throughout America, art’s redemption takes center stage at hospitals, nursing homes, jails and homeless shelters. Even an entire city can be transformed when its citizens embrace public art to add beauty, create community and heal its broken places.

Art in Medical Settings According to Jill Sonke, director of the University of Florida (UF) Center for Arts in Medicine, approximately half of U.S. hospitals have art programs that provide positive distraction, enjoyment and connection. To humanize otherwise intimidating environments, visual artists and musicians are employed to install appealing exhibits and play relaxing music. Artists also work at the bedside with patients as part of inter-professional care teams. Serving as an artist-in-residence early in her career, Sonke remembers a young female patient with sickle cell disease whose bouts of extreme pain required hospitalization. Dance sessions eased her suffering and enabled doctors to reduce pain medications. “The way the patient described it was not that the pain was going away, but that she didn’t mind it as much because she was enjoying dancing,” she says. While facilitating Dance for Life classes for Parkinson’s patients, Sonke encountered a man suffering limited mobility and an inability to form facial expressions. After two months of biweekly sessions, he could lift his arms over his head and, to his wife’s delight, smile again. “It’s that multimodal capacity of the arts,” Sonke explains. “All at the same time, he was engaging in music,

movement and imagery. He was moving with others and experiencing joy and laughter.” According to Sonke, ongoing research seeks to pinpoint the public health benefits of art. In Britain, they have learned that people over 50 visiting museums or concerts once a month are almost half as likely to develop depression in older age. Other studies suggest that music can unlock memories and improve cognition. UF researchers are currently investigating whether live music in emergency and trauma care settings can reduce the need for opioids. “When people engage in the arts, they often enter into a flow state, that experience of losing yourself in art where we lose track of time and what we’re doing is intrinsically motivated,” Sonke says. “A flow state can engage a relaxation response, helping to reduce stress and anxiety, which can enhance immune function.”

Art Therapy for Cancer Patients Board-certified art therapist Mallory Montgomery helps cancer patients in Detroit’s Henry Ford Hospital work through symptoms of depression, anxiety or trauma. “Any person seeking a talk therapist or social worker could also consult with an art therapist,” she says. “We have the same training, but use art instead of just words. Evidence suggests that art therapy accesses healing faster because you’re forging a deep mind/body connection.” When counseling a double mastectomy patient that has questions about who they are now that they’re missing a part of their identity, Montgomery might offer a printed body map so that they can pinpoint where they carry feelings of loss, pain or confusion. “By drawing or coloring in those areas, I’m asking them to show how they’re being affected physically, emotionally and spiritually, and to externalize the overwhelming, negative side of their problem,” she explains. Using a second body map, Montgomery might invite the patient to draw or paint in those same areas to transform the pain into something more positive. “Is it going to blossom like a flower or be soothed with water? What imagery can you create that represents the opposite of your pain or an improvement of your concerns? We might also do a portrait to highlight other aspects of you and your personality that still exist, even September 2021

though you no longer have a body part that was killing you,” she says. Montgomery’s emphasis is never on the quality of the art. “I walk the fine line between allowing patients to problemsolve how to make something look like what’s in their head and providing them with comfort and intervention so they don’t get so frustrated that they want to give up,” she notes. Montgomery keeps a visual journal for her own self-expression. “It helps me make sense of the world,” she says. “Art gives my voice and thoughts an outlet, something concrete and representational that reaches into the depth of what I’m experiencing.”

Redemption Songs in Skid Row About 10 years ago, violinist and recording artist Vijay Gupta took a wrong turn and ended up in Skid Row, a disadvantaged downtown Los Angeles neighborhood. “It felt like a gut punch,” he recalls. “I saw the gross inequality between Walt Disney Concert Hall where I performed for the LA Philharmonic and a community of 5,000 people less than two miles away sleeping in tents in extreme poverty.” To uplift and inspire people recovering from homelessness, addiction and incarceration, Gupta founded Street Symphony in 2011 as a series of concert performances by world-class musicians. “One of our first venues was the Department of Mental Health,” he recalls. “After the second movement, the young violist I was performing with turned to the audience with tears in his eyes and said, ‘I’ve loved playing for you because I can feel your hearts.’ He shared that his mother had grappled with schizophrenia, his father was a prison guard and whenever he played for his family, he felt more connected to them. That’s when I began to see him as a human being who was in deep need of this work himself.” Gupta has learned firsthand that healing is a two-way street. “When I come to Skid Row, I’m the one who feels lifted,” he says. As a result, Street Symphony has morphed into a collection of workshops and conversations that also employs jazz, reggae, hip-hop and West African musicians and vocalists from the Skid Row community. “We might play 30 minutes of music and then ask the audience what images, thoughts or memories came up for them,” he explains. In this community, art is neither entertainment nor a commodity, Gupta says. “It’s a lifeline; a way for people that have been devastated by poverty, addiction or trauma to add to their lives in a constructive way. We all have devastated places within ourselves that need healing and attention. Visiting Skid Row is a pilgrimage to the broken place within

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myself, and in that way, it’s a spiritual place; my temple where I go to worship.”

Creative Care for People with Dementia Drawing from her theater background, Anne Basting, author of Creative Care, has developed an innovative approach to dementia and elder care. “Our current caregiving model envisions one person that’s empty and has lots of needs and the other person that’s full and pours themself into the other person, which leads to burnout,” she says. “Dementia and aging are experiences of increasing separation. People isolate themselves and learn not to trust their own expressive capacities, because their relatives and friends no longer know how to relate with them and often ignore their words.” Basting’s Creative Care changes this depleting dynamic. “In improvisational theater, you observe everything that’s happen-ing on stage and try to figure out how you can add to the performance positively,” she explains. “Applying that idea to a care situation, you observe the person’s facial expressions, what they’re saying, how they’re behaving and then invite them into expression out of that moment with what we call a ‘beautiful question’, one that has no right or wrong answers and draws on the person’s strengths.” A beautiful question might be, “If your feet could talk, what would they say?” This offers people with pain a poetic way to express it. “I invited a gentleman with dementia who had no language—no words left—to show me how water moves. His response was the most beautiful dance I’d ever experienced, performed in the kitchen of his duplex,” Basting recalls, adding that it’s important to acknowledge the person’s expression so they know they’ve been heard. The final step in Creative Care is to accumulate these experiences over time and shape something larger and universally meaningful that can be shared with others—an artistic product. Basting founded the nonprofit TimeSlips to train artists and caregivers worldwide to do this visionary work. Their efforts have resulted in art exhibits, dance and theater productions, books and animations. “My dream is that meaning and beauty will be made every day in nursing homes, creating care settings so interesting that people want to visit them—a new kind of cultural center, integrating health and art,” she says.

Transforming a City with Public Art More than 4,000 works of public art grace the city of Philadelphia, three-quarters of which are breathtaking murals that combine world-class paintings and images with pro-

vocative words and healing messages. Art permeates virtually every neighborhood on walls, billboards, sidewalks, rooftops, swimming pools and basketball courts, enriching people from all walks of life, even those that don’t have access to galleries and museums. “Public art lifts our spirits, provides us with beauty and inspires us,” says Jane Golden, founder and executive director of Mural Arts Philadelphia (MAP). “It can be evocative, challenging and educational, as well, serving as a barometer of our time—a system of checks and balances and a mirror that we hold up to people and say that your life counts and you matter.” In addition to sponsoring 75 to 100 new works every year, MAP’s $10 million budget funds programs related to criminal justice, art education, housing insecurity, behavioral health, community development and environmental justice. According to Golden, the healing power of art is not just in the mural, but also in its collaborative creation. In addition to artists and educators, hundreds of people work on these projects, including individuals grappling with addiction or homelessness, veterans with PTSD and immigrants and refugees facing isolation and stigma. “The act of creating is a meditative and healing experience, and because you’re part of a larger effort, it connects you to your community,” Golden says. “People start to feel a sense of purpose and value. They start to believe in themselves again.”

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

September 2021

fit body

YOGA TO HEAL TRAUMA Soothing Poses Calm the Nervous System

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by Marlaina Donato

etting on the yoga mat can be a powerful stress-buster that lowers blood pressure and excessive cortisol, but yoga can offer an added boon for those living with the lasting effects of traumatic events. Trauma-informed yoga (also called trauma-sensitive yoga) is a promising therapeutic branch of the yogic system designed to quell the body’s programmed “fight-or-flight” responses. Founded on yoga, psychology and neurobiology principles, the approach is in harmony with the ancient yogic concept of samskaras, or memories imprinted on our cellular consciousness. People from many walks of life can benefit from trauma-sensitive yoga including bullied teens, women rebound26

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ing from abuse and anyone impacted by pandemic turmoil. Research published in the journal Military Medicine in 2018 reports that U.S. veterans of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq that participated in a one-hour vinyasa-style yoga session for six weeks showed significantly lowered post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, as well as less insomnia, depression and anxiety.

Trauma-Intelligent Fitness Yoga performed with trauma sensitivity can pick up where talk therapy leaves off, targeting the amygdala, the danger detector in the brain, and the vagus nerve that runs from the brain to the abdomen, which plays a vital role in processing trauma. “Somatic processing and treatment methodologies like yoga are now being used to help repair

and rebuild distressed nervous systems, which in turn helps the brain integrate and ‘file’ distressing memories,” says Beth Shaw, founder of YogaFit Training Systems Worldwide, the largest yoga teacher training school in North America, and the author of Healing Trauma with Yoga: Go From Surviving to Thriving with Mind-Body Techniques. The Fort Lauderdale-based yoga therapist and entrepreneur highlights the body’s role in trauma and stress. “The brain rewires itself around the traumatic event and memories stored in the tissues throughout the body. Yoga can help to free those memories, alleviating troubling emotions and thought patterns, as well as chronic somatic tension and hypervigilance.” Shaw draws upon new psychological and neurological discoveries, including polyvagal theory, that help explain the full impact of trauma and most importantly, how and why yoga helps to lessen these impacts. Trauma-informed yoga keeps the nervous system in mind, excluding poses and breathing techniques that might provoke a sense of vulnerability or overstimulation. Trained teachers adhere to non-touch assistance methods and often opt for well-lit studios to avoid a possible triggering atmosphere. A trauma-informed yoga teacher knows the inner workings of the nervous system,” explains Mandy Eubanks, a trauma-trained yoga educator and certified yoga instructor in Tulsa. “We have respect for the variety of responses that our clients have to yoga, meditation and breathwork practices. For example, we understand deep breathing will be calming to one person and agitating to another. We normalize clients’ responses and work with them to find an effective technique for that individual.” Teachers with specialized training and access to props can also support people on a yoga journey that

are limited physically. Eubanks emphasizes, “Yoga truly is for everyone and every body.”

The Power of Choice and Individuality Lisa Danylchuk, the Oakland-based author of Yoga for Trauma Recovery: Theory, Philosophy, and Practice, underscores that in a trauma-informed environment, everything a teacher instructs is an offering or invitation. “This is important because people who have endured trauma have often not had a say over what happens to their bodies. A good trauma-informed class cultivates somatic and psychological resources, and focuses, above all, on cultivating a sense of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual safety.” The founder of The Center for Yoga and Trauma Recovery believes it’s important to be responsive to individual needs. “Trauma affects so many different individuals and groups of people and in such a variety of ways that it is impossible to give one prescription. Some people might benefit from a weekly, 60- to 90-minute vinyasa-style class. Others might benefit from a short, five-minute daily restorative practice.” Shaw also stresses a tailored approach. “How one wishes to practice is up to the individual, but I suggest a combination of both one-on-one instruction and class format. If someone is in the throes of trauma, they will need a private session to start.” Eubanks adds the importance of consistency. “In my experience, it is about finding which yoga practices work best for the client and then encouraging them to find time to practice every day. Yoga for PTSD is not a one-and-done deal. It takes time, effort and belief in oneself.” Marlaina Donato is a body-mind-spirit author and recording artist. Connect at AutumnEmbersMusic.com. September 2021

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green living

Healthy Cookware How to Choose Non-Toxic Pots and Pans by Amy Coyle

rganic and locally sourced foods are eco-friendly and contribute to better health, a greener world and thriving communities. However, once the food is cooked, it may no longer be as healthy, depending on the cookware used. The myriad options, from classic pots and pans to the latest modern synthetic materials, can be confusing, but there are some basic factors to watch for in choosing environmentally sound and chemical-free cookware.

Ceramic Pure ceramic cookware is made with clay and baked in a kiln. If made in Latin America, including Mexico, such items may contain high lead levels. It’s recommended that these pieces not be used to cook, serve or store food. A kit is available to test for contaminants, if desired. Pots and crocks derived from pure, uncontaminated clay are excellent for slowcooking stews and sauces, particularly recipes containing acidic foods like tomato or cabbage. Cooking foods in earthenware dates back 15,000 years. 28

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Cast Iron For classic, durable and versatile cookware, cast iron, although heavy, will last a lifetime. While some iron can transfer to food, it’s difficult to measure and depends on the pan and the food. Naturopathic doctor Kara Fitzgerald, in Newtown, Connecticut, suggests caution. “If you have a history of iron overload (hemochromatosis), you should avoid cast iron cookware, especially for acidic foods.” Enameled cast iron has a nonstick, porcelain coating and is unaffected by acidity. Research published in the Japa-

nese Journal of Hygiene suggests that the risk of acute or chronic toxicity associated with the use of this cookware under normal circumstances is extremely low.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel cookware is easy to clean and durable. It releases low levels of nickel and chromium if used to cook acidic foods, which is only a concern for those with corresponding sensitivities or allergies.

Copper

High-quality copper pots and pans have a long lifespan and heat foods evenly. They are usually lined with stainless steel or tin to prevent toxicity. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends staying away from unlined copper cookware because copper can leach into acidic foods like tomatoes, fish, processed meats, grains and citrus fruits. When the coating starts to wear off lined copper, it’s time to replace the pot or pan.

Ceramic-Coated Aluminum Aluminum dipped in a ceramic mixture is safe to use, but wears away over time. To preserve the surface longer, refrain from using metal utensils or scouring pads or putting it in the dishwasher. Once the coating is compromised, the cookware may be unsafe due to aluminum toxicity. Look for ceramic-coated pans that are PFA-, PFOA-, lead- and cadmium-free.

Glass

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Glass cookware is a healthy option if it’s new and handled carefully. Glass is an inert material, so nothing reacts with it or leaches from it. However, it can break easily if exposed to extreme temperature changes. If any chips or cracks develop, discard it.

Nonstick

Teflon coating, made from polytetrafluoroethylene, is for many consumers the go-to coating for nonstick cookware, but studies show

that the chemical leaks into food at high temperatures or when scratched. Prior to 2013, the “forever chemical” perfluorooctanoic acid was used in the manufacturing process. Although discontinued after studies showed a possible link to cancer, older Teflon pans and those made in foreign countries still may pose a risk. Overall, the American Cancer Society considers Teflon safe. Caution should be used; however, once Teflon reaches 464° F, according to the Environmental Working Group, it begins to deteriorate. At 680° F, at least six toxic gases are released which may cause flu-like symptoms. Still, some cooks find nonstick cookware to be convenient because the surface works for most foods. “As long as the coating on your nonstick pots and pans is intact without scratches, then they should be safe to use. Nonstick cookware is budget-friendly and easy to clean,” says San Luis Obispo County, California, nutritionist and cookbook author Carrie Forrest of CleanEatingKitchen.com.

Healthiest Choice

“Stainless steel, cast iron and ceramiccoated pans don’t fully match the old-style nonstick ease, but are much better for you,” says kitchenware product researcher and designer Adam Heck, creator of TheGood LifeDesigns.com, in Toms River, New Jersey. “Grab a nonstick ceramic pan and use it only for busy days or super-delicate foods …. with proper care, you can enjoy years of use. Then, grab cast iron or stainless steel for everything else,” suggests Forrest. In the final analysis, the best cookware choice may be a variety of pots and pans for different meals and varied health concerns. Amy Coyle is a freelance writer in Wynnewood, Pennsylvania.

September 2021

healthy kids

Creative Kids

How to Nurture Imagination

oung children are naturally curious and inventive, yet research shows that their creative thinking skills peak at around age 6 and start to decline once they start formal schooling—a trend that’s accelerating in recent years with kids’ heavy digital use. This doesn’t bode well for their future on our rapidly changing planet. “Our world continues to evolve at an unprecedented rate. It’s estimated that many of the jobs we will need in 10 or 20 or 30 years haven’t yet been invented,” says children’s education psychologist Charlotte Reznick, Ph.D., author of The Power of Your Child’s Imagination. “Kids of today need to stretch their creative juices to come up with these new jobs and prepare for an ever-challenging and changing world.” Parents are integral in nourishing creativity, but according to research from the Lifelong Kindergarten Group at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Media Lab, the role of parents is less about “teaching” creativity and more about creating a fertile environment in which creativity will take root, grow and flourish. Establishing that rich forum involves some simple strategies.

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Encourage their curiosity. “An attitude of curiosity connected to wonder, acceptance, flexibility and openness can bring out innovation and novelty,” says Reznick. That means not only being responsive to kids’ questions like, “Why do strawberries have seeds on the outside?” but also engaging their imagination to explore the world and to solve everyday problems. “Ask them, ‘What would it take to finish this project?’ Make it fun, brainstorm and mind-map, rather than make linear lists,” she suggests. “Ask open-ended questions, perhaps a bit out of the norm. ‘How did you feel when

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by Ronica O’Hara

you were writing that short story? What colors crossed your mind as you were singing? What music was flowing through your body as you were painting?’ The idea is to mix things up a bit to allow a new take on your child’s emerging creativity.” Let them follow their bliss. “The biggest mistake I see parents making in wanting to encourage creativity is leading their children and telling them what to do,” says Jen Lumanlan, host and founder of the research-based parenting podcast YourParenting Mojo. com. “When we instead see our role not as being the Sage on the Stage but rather the Guide on the Side, we don’t have to drag the child through a curriculum kicking and screaming; instead, the child asks us for more opportunities to follow their interest. They will ask insightful questions, read books, watch videos, draw their ideas, consult with experts, put on plays, develop an understanding of the world with their whole bodies (not just their heads) and teach others. It’s truly incredible to see.” Make creativity easy. Having lots of paper, paints, pens and other craft items on hand in a place where a child can easily access them enables creativity to flow when the mood hits. “You don’t have to have a huge budget for supplies. Save old cardboard boxes, empty paper towel rolls, cereal boxes and scrap paper. Give your child some markers and masking tape. I bet you’ll be amazed at what can be created from the simplest materials,” says Liam Davies, a Berkeley dad of two who blogs about sustainable family fishing at FishingCommand.com. “Have plenty of loose parts available. Loose parts can be anything your child turns into something else,” suggests Maria Kemery, of Philadelphia, who blogs at the parenting website PlacesWeCallHome.com. “Bottlecaps become money, scarves become a doll’s dress, clean recycle bin items become robot parts or a collection of acorns becomes a bowl of soup. Having an assortment of loose parts encourages your child to engage in symbolic play (substituting one item for another), which builds creativity.”

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Allow them to be bored. “Kids often complain they are bored. I love that, because bored is also where new ideas come from,” says Reznick. “Our mind abhors a vacuum, so sooner or later, a creative spark will ignite.” That’s what Lorton, Virginia, mom Lauren Schmitz, who blogs at TheSimpleHomeschooler.com, witnessed. “I turned off the screens and stopped trying to provide entertainment for my children and the results were amazing. My middle child, who is the most screen-obsessed kid that I know, started doing things like making her own magazine, building dioramas and putting on plays. She suddenly wanted to paint, build a robot and learn about aerial dancing. Boredom is the best way to give a child space to think, create, imagine and build.” Natural health writer Ronica O’Hara can be reached at OHaraRonica@gmail.com. September 2021

healing ways

Conquering Chronic Pain How the Body-Mind Connection Works

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by Ronica O’Hara

or three decades, David Hanscom was a top-ranked orthopedic surgeon in Seattle who daily put the scalpel to injured, deformed and twisted spines. Privately, he writhed in pain himself. He was beset over 15 years with burning feet, insomnia, tinnitus, anxiety, skin rashes, crushing chest pain, depression, sweats, heart palpitations and tension headaches, among other symptoms. That put him among the estimated 50 million American adults afflicted with chronic pain for which relief is hard to come by and often short-lived. The standard medical approaches of surgery and injections often don’t work well or last long for many patients, research shows. Opioids, once a standby, are now prescribed sparingly after being implicated in half a million overdose deaths. Treatment is especially elusive for the one in six adults and 30 to 40 percent of primary care patients with pain or chronic conditions considered “medically unexplained”. As a result, integrative pain management, which focuses on both mind and body

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and incorporates medical and holistic approaches, is growing in importance. Major medical centers such as the Mount Sinai Health System and Cleveland Clinic, as well as practitioners such as chiropractors and homeopaths, offer dozens of modalities to turn around painful conditions. Sometimes a single simple method works quickly for a patient with a straightforward symptom; more often, it takes a combination of approaches over time to reverse pain, especially if it is complex, sustained or recurring. Launching on his own healing path, Hanscom came to a critical understanding: The abuse he had suffered as a child from a rage-filled mother, coupled with emotional repression and a fierce drive to excel as a surgeon, produced his high levels of anxiety. It turbocharged his central nervous system and set off a cascade of reactions that fed ever-rising levels of pain. “Your mind and body function as a unit with no separation,” he says. “Chronic pain results when your body is exposed to sustained levels of stress hormones, excitatory neurotransmitters and inflammatory protein. Your brain is sensitized and the nerve conduction speed is faster, so you physically feel more pain. It’s not ‘all in your mind’— it’s a normal physio-logical process.” After six months of intense inner work focused on his rage, Hanscom calmed his overwrought nervous system and his symptoms “essentially disappeared.” He began applying his experience to hundreds of spine patients, helping the great

majority of them to avoid surgery altogether. In the book Back in Control, he describes his approach, which is designed for people with pain that is not caused by underlying structural or organ issues. He recommends these initial steps.

n Getting at least seven hours of sleep a night, which may

require sleeping pills or natural methods.

n Doing expressive writing twice a day, which involves writing down in longhand whatever is on the mind using graphic and descriptive language for 10 to 30 minutes, and then promptly tearing it up. Neurological research shows that this simple practice rewires the brain. “Some people experience remarkable pain relief right away,” he says.

emotions (often toward people the patient cares about) that are not fully recognized. Often, these issues began due to adverse childhood experiences, which can be anything you would not want a child of your own to endure. I recommend people explore these possibilities on their own, with a loved one or with a therapist.” That process might sound daunting, but so is suffering crippling pain. “The most important thing for people to know is that pain can be successfully treated, relieved and often cured with the right techniques,” says Clarke. Health writer Ronica O’Hara can be reached at OHaraRonica@ gmail.com.

n Practicing “active meditation” throughout the day by mind-

fully focusing each time on a sight, sound or sensation for five to 10 seconds. For deep, sustained healing, he stresses the importance of forgiveness, gratitude, self-discovery, exploring a spiritual path, relearning playfulness and connecting with others. Medication may be necessary initially, he says, and as pain levels recede, most people become ready to improve their diet and exercise more. Understanding the mind/body connection is key in pain management, concurs gastroenterologist David D. Clarke, M.D., author of They Can’t Find Anything Wrong! and president of the Portland, Oregon-based Psychophysiologic Disorders Association. “When medical evaluation shows no problems with organs or structures, then the pain is being generated by the brain, similar to what happens in phantom limb pain, where people feel pain in the location of an amputated arm or leg,” he says. “Chronic pain generated by the brain generally occurs due to stress, an emotional/psychological trauma or strong negative

Learn More Direct Your Own Care Journey is a free, online course for healing chronic pain. Designed by David Hanscom, M.D., it includes an experiential app, group sessions, video tutorials and webinars at TheDocJourney.com. Stress-Disease Information, including videos, a webinarbased course, recent research and a list of practitioners, can be found at ppdassociation.org, the website of the Psychophysiologic Disorders Association, founded by stress-disease expert David Clarke, M.D. American Chronic Pain Association, at theacpa.org, lists treatments, clinical trials, support groups and other resources.

September 2021

conscious eating

FORAGED FUNGI FARE

Cooking with Wild Mushrooms

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by April Thompson

ild mushrooms can infuse exciting new flavors and textures into familiar dishes, along with a taste of the local terroir, the natural habitat, from woods to plate. “I first encountered wild mushrooms through local foragers, then later from specialty food purveyors who would fly mushrooms from around the world into our kitchen. They were the most unique ingredients I could find, offering colors, flavors and textures I had never experienced … pure catnip for a chef,” says Alan Bergo, a Minnesota chef and author of The Forager Chef ’s Book of Flora. Recipes at ForagerChef.com feature more than 60 species of wild edible fungi, from common deer mushrooms to prized porcinis. The intriguing flavors of wild mushrooms in part come from their diets, akin to the difference between grain- and grass-fed meats. “For fungi, their food is their habitat. Cultivated mushrooms have less variety of the micronutrients and secondary metabolites that can add flavor to a wild mushroom,” says Eugenia Bone, a New

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York City food journalist and editor of Fantastic Fungi: The Community Cookbook. Foraged fungi also offer a host of nutritional benefits surpassing commercially grown mushrooms. Wild mushrooms like chanterelles and morels can contain up to 1,200 international units (IU) of vitamin D per serving, whereas commercial mushrooms, typically grown in dark conditions, contain less than 40 IU, according to the Harvard School of Public Health. While foraging is the most satisfying way to procure wild mushrooms, they are

becoming increasingly available through farmers’ markets, online purveyors and gourmet stores. Some species that grow wild throughout North America such as oysters, maitake (hen of the woods) and lion’s mane are also grown commercially; these can be suitable for transitioning from buying to hunting. Sam Fitz, owner of ANXO Cidery & Tasting Room, a neighborhood taproom in Washington, D.C., picked up mushrooming when COVID-19 hit, in part mentored by the restaurant’s wild food purveyor. Fitz started ANXO making hyperlocal ciders from crabapples foraged on bike rides through the nation’s capital, salvaging fruit that otherwise would go to waste. Today, the seasonally focused menu often features wild fungi and other foraged ingredients from savory tartelettes made with beech and hedgehog mushrooms to cocktails made from bitter boletes. One of ANXO’s signature dishes is a vegan “chicken of the woods” sandwich, served hot, Nashville-style. This orange-

colored tree mushroom, also known as sulphur shelf, has a taste, texture and color that so closely resembles chicken that many recipes use it as a meat substitute. “People are so blown away by its meaty texture they can’t believe they are being served mushrooms,” says Fitz. When preparing mushrooms, “Forget what you know about cooking vegetables,” says Bone. “Also forget the notion that mushrooms are too delicate to take washing or high heat. Mushrooms are extremely hardy because of the chitin in their cell walls, a compound that is more like fingernails than the cellulose of plants. You can cook mushrooms twice and they will still retain their integrity.” Because the amino acids in mushrooms respond to heat more like meat than vegetables, Bone suggests searing mushrooms on the grill or under the broiler. “A slice of maitake will cook beautifully on the grill,” she says. When cooking a particular species for the first time, Bone recommends oven-

roasting the mushrooms wrapped in parchment paper. “When you open up the parchment, you can really smell the mushroom. It’s a wonderful way to pick up subtle flavor differences and see how the mushroom handles,” she says. Since fungi take on all sorts of shapes and sizes, Bergo suggests letting a mushroom’s morphology inform how to cook it. Lion’s mane, for example, has a texture that mimics crabmeat, so faux crab cakes make a fun dish that honors its form. “Chefs tend to chop things up, but I prefer to cook many mushrooms whole, especially when they have interesting shapes,” says Bergo. One of the chef ’s go-to preparations of oyster mushrooms is to toss large pieces in seasoned flour or brush them with mustard, then bake until crispy. “They turn into cool-looking, crispy croutons you can put on a salad or eat as a snack,” he says. Connect with Washington, D.C., freelance writer April Thompson at AprilWrites.com.

Wild mushrooms are a culinary delight, but beginning foragers should harvest with caution. The forager’s rule of thumb is to be 100 percent sure of an identification 100 percent of the time given that toxic lookalikes can exist. It’s also important to try a small amount of a mushroom the first time around, as some individuals can respond adversely to a particular species despite its general edibility.

Hen of the Woods Steaks

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Alan Bergo, ForagerChef.com

yield: 1 serving per 4 ounces mushrooms 4-oz pieces of hen of the woods (Grifola frondosa) mushrooms, broken into large clusters Kosher salt Cooking oil as needed, about ¼ cup Clean the hens by swishing them in cool water, gently peering inside the caps to make sure they are cleaned, trimming with a paring knife as needed, then allowing to drain on paper towels. Heat the oil in a pan or on a griddle until hot, but not smoking. Add the mushroom clump and season with salt, placing a weight—like a rock, log, crumbly wood or cinder block wrapped in foil or a pan—on top, then cook until the underside is deeply caramelized, then flip and repeat. If the pan gets dry, add a little more oil. When both sides of the mushrooms are deeply caramelized and browned, serve immediately, with extra finishing salt on the side. Recipe from Alan Bergo, ForagerChef.com. September 2021

Sicilian Chicken of the Woods Here is a traditional Italian preparation for chicken of the woods (Laetiporus sulphureus or Laetiporus cincinnatus), flavored with wild monarda leaves and served with charred bread rubbed with garlic. yield: 4 to 6 servings 1 lb young tender chicken of the woods, sliced ¼- to ½-inch thick 1 large clove garlic ¼ cup mild or extra-virgin olive oil mixed with flavorless oil, like grapeseed (plus 1 or 2 Tbsp extra if the pan threatens to dry out), along with a drizzle at the end 1 large shallot or small yellow onion 1 Tbsp sliced Monarda fistulosa (also known as bee balm or wild bergamot) or fresh mint or oregano Crushed red pepper flakes or hot chili to taste 1 Tbsp capers or a small handful of Castelvetrano olives (or other green olives) 2 dried bay leaves ¼ cup dry white wine ¼ cup water or stock 1½ cups seedless tomato puree or tomato sauce Grilled high-quality bread, preferably slightly charred, for serving 2 whole fresh garlic cloves as needed for rubbing into the bread. Heat the oil in a wide pan with high sides. A cast iron skillet will work, but isn’t ideal as the sauce is acidic. Add the mushrooms and cook until they’ve given up their moisture, then push them to the side of the pan, add a little extra oil if the pan looks dry, or if the mushrooms were very juicy. Add the garlic to the clean spot of the pan, then arrange the pan off-center on the burner so that the heat is focused on the garlic.

Meanwhile, lightly oil the bread and char on a grill. It should have good black spots, but not be ashy. Rub a garlic clove gently into the toasted bread slices, press-

ing down so that it “melts” into the bread a bit—don’t go crazy, a little goes a long way. Double check the seasoning of the mushrooms for salt and chili, adjust as needed, then serve the stewed mushrooms with the grilled garlic bread on the side. Drizzle some oil over the top to give the dish an attractive sheen. Spoon the mushrooms and their sauce on the bread and eat. Leftovers make killer mushroom hoagies a la cheesy meatball sub sandwiches. Recipe from Alan Bergo, ForagerChef.com.

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Sweat the garlic in the oil slowly until it’s light golden and aromatic, then add the shallots and cook for 1 minute.

Add the crushed red pepper directly to the garlic and shallot, cook for a moment more, then deglaze the pan with the wine, tossing in the bay leaf. Reduce the sauce by one half, then add the tomato puree, water, capers or olives, bergamot or other herbs and cook until the mixture is thickened lightly and the mushrooms are coated with a rich sauce, about 15 minutes.

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photo by Alan Bergo, ForagerChef.com

photo by Evan Sung

Warm Endive and Oyster Mushroom Salad

2 Tbsp olive oil ½ cup minced shallots 1 tsp sliced garlic 1 to 2 tsp grated ginger Freshly ground black pepper 6 oz oyster mushrooms 1 Tbsp white or black sesame seeds 2 marinated white anchovy fillets, chopped 2 Belgian endives, leaves separated and cut into 2-inch sections ½ Meyer or regular lemon Pinch of kosher salt ⅓ cup chopped fresh cilantro or flat-leafed parsley for garnish 2 whole scallions, chopped diagonally for garnish Drizzle of high-quality white truffle oil for garnish (optional) Grated Parmigiano cheese for garnish (optional) In a wide skillet, heat the olive oil over medium high heat. Add the shallots and garlic, and sauté until golden, a few minutes. Stir in the ginger and pepper to taste. Tear the oyster mushrooms into bite-sized pieces and add. Cook for about 5 minutes, flipping the mushrooms over, until they release their liquid. Add the sesame seeds and toast them in a bald spot in the pan for a minute or so. Turn the heat down to medium, add the anchovies and endives, and cook until the endives wilt, a few more minutes. Take off the heat, add the lemon juice and season with salt. Garnish with the cilantro and scallions, and optionally, white truffle oil and a sprinkle of the cheese. Recipe by Annaliese Bischoff from Fantastic Fungi: The Community Cookbook, edited by Eugenia Bone. September 2021

Shedding Light on Lightbulbs The Ins and Outs of Our Options

Don’t be left in the dark when choosing lightbulbs. Lighting accounts for up to 20 percent of a household’s energy bill, and untold numbers of bulbs end up in landfills. Let’s illuminate some bulb options to increase savings and reduce waste. COMPACT FLUORESCENT LIGHTS (CFL) were a great answer to the incandescent bulbs that came before them as far as energy efficiency, but they have disadvantages, as well. Energy efficiency: About 65 to 75 percent more efficient than incandescent. Cost efficiency: Estimated $1.25 to $1.75 annual cost of operation. Potential health risks: CFLs contain small traces of mercury and emit puffs of toxic powder when they break. Visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s website epa.gov for safe clean-up instructions. Proper disposal: Go to Earth911.com to search for nearby CFL disposal facilities.

AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF A YOGI

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w w w. AYa n n i ve rs a r y. o rg 38

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LIGHT EMITTING DIODES (LED) bulbs are here to stay and illuminate the majority of households. To compute old bulb wattage compared to LED wattage, divide roughly by five or six. For example, a 60-watt incandescent bulb is equivalent to a 10-watt LED. It’s not an exact equation, but it’s close. Energy efficiency: Up to 83 percent more efficient than incandescent. Cost efficiency: Estimated $1.19 annual cost of operation per bulb. Potential health risks: Age-related macular degeneration is more likely with high exposure to low-intensity “blue light”; however, the warmer glow from LEDs typically used in home light fixtures is not the culprit. The “blue light” LEDs are typically glowing from computer screens, mobile phones and other devices or appliances. Proper disposal: Big-box and local hardware stores often offer free or low-cost recycling, as do online recyclers and local facilities because there are no toxins or hard-torecycle wires.

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75 th A NNIVERSARY !

eco tip

inspiration

The Power of the Written Note

irthdays, weddings, holidays and other momentous occasions have long been celebrated with cards and letters. The rise of emailing, texting and social media has made writing letters a forgotten treasure as many of us have instead come to use quick but fleeting messages via technology. Perhaps it’s time to bring back the nostalgia, the handwriting and a box full of stationery for all occasions. A handwritten note ensures someone will know we took the time to think, write and send.

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by Julie Peterson

Here’s how to get started.

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Nothing inspires writing notes more than a box or drawer full of inviting cards and paper. Cards that are blank inside are multi-purpose. Stickers and beautiful postage stamps can make an envelope look like a gift. Get a few good pens in a variety of colors and start writing.

Be Thankful After receiving a gift or an act of kindness, send a thank-you card or letter. Do it soon after the event, so that the memory is fresh and the note will contain specifics. But even if it’s for something that took place farther in the past, “better late than never” certainly applies.

GREEN IS SEEN when you advertise with us. 727-865-9339

Talk-Write Don’t get stuck when pen hits paper, just imagine what would be said out loud and write those words. Our words won’t sound like the poem in a store-bought card, but words from the heart are better because they are personal and likely more meaningful to the recipient. The reader will hear the writer’s voice in the note. Be honest and sincere.

Write and Repeat Make writing a habit by sending three notes each week. If nothing spurs a thank-you, then send a card just to say hello or give appreciation. Perhaps it’s a “remember when” or an “I miss you” note. Browse through contact lists to get inspiration. If nobody strikes a chord for a note, write a self-praise letter. Be sure to list your best and most lovable qualities and put it in the mail. It will be a nice warm-fuzzy surprise when it arrives. These kinds of letters and cards are like loving hugs. For some, a sweet note via mail or tucked somewhere to be discovered may be a much needed joyful spark. Julie Peterson writes from Wisconsin. Reach her at JuliePeterson2222@gmail.com. September 2021

natural pet

Horses as Healers Equine Therapy has Physical and Emotional Benefits by Julie Peterson

regulation, and helps them establish routines, structure and a sense of responsibility—all skills that are transferable to daily life.

Equine Psychotherapists

Equine-assisted psychotherapy involves counseling with a mental health professional and time riding or caring for a horse. The horse is considered a cotherapist. Forming a relationship with an animal that weighs 1,000 pounds or more may be intimidating, but the required vul-

nerability and trust is part of the process. “Horses show us how to live together in harmony. They teach us about acceptance of others and of ourselves,” says Marcy Tocker, clinical mental health counselor and founder and executive director of Grey Muzzle Manor Sanctuary, in Mohrsville, Pennsylvania. “In some cases, I see results more quickly using equine therapy than solely with office therapy. I also see more motivation from typically resistant clients because this can actually be fun, too,” says

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orses are being increasingly used to help people work through emotional and physical challenges, and for good reason: Numerous studies have shown that equine-assisted therapy helps with anger, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and dissociative or other emotional problems. It works whether the therapy involves riding or simply feeding and grooming. Building the relationship increases people’s self-confidence, social skills, trust, empathy and emotional

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Meagan Good, a counselor and owner of Take Heart Counseling & Equine Assisted Therapy, in Wernersville, Pennsylvania. “Horses are relationship-oriented and intuitively sense and honestly respond to the emotions of those around them, which makes the horse-human bond a powerful healing mechanism.” “Horses have similar emotions to humans—they get stressed out, happy, impatient. That’s why equine-assisted services are so popular,” says Traci Leigh, equine manager and instructor at Dream Riders TLC, in Crystal Lake, Illinois.

Therapeutic Riding Beyond working as co-therapists for emotional issues, horses are excellent for occupational, speech and physical therapy. “Riding a horse rhythmically moves the rider’s body in a manner similar to a human gait. Their pelvic movement is the same as ours, so riders with physical needs often show improvement in flexibility, balance, muscle strength, circulation and breathing,” says Pamela J. Rogan, founder, executive director and certified therapeutic riding instructor at Harmony Farms, in Cocoa, Florida. “It will also enhance a rider’s quality of life, build confidence, independence and selfesteem. This is particularly true of riders with emotional or behavioral disabilities.” Research shows that children and adults with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke and other conditions that affect motor control saw improvements in balance, gait, gross motor function and posture after several weeks of equine-assisted treatment.

Horses at Work “I look for horses who are not afraid of new things, but curious about them … a horse that thinks through a new situation, that expresses himself freely and that enjoys interacting with humans,” says Good. “From there, my professional team works on building a relationship with that horse so that the horse feels safe to build relationships with clients who may or

may not have any horse background.” There are certifications and advanced courses that ensure appropriate training of the therapists and instructors, the safety of the people receiving services and the training and well-being of the horses. Reputable organizations include the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (eagala.org), the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (pathintl. org) and Natural Lifemanship (NaturalLifemanship.com). “In addition to requiring that the horses are quiet, gentle animals and physically and mentally sound, they are trained to be desensitized to noise, wheelchairs, walkers and different types of therapeutic equipment that riders may need for safety or postural assistance,” says Leigh. Her horses get four weeks off every year and work a schedule that ensures ample time to rest and recharge during the day. “The horse is a co-therapist. They are doing a job, and it’s a not an easy job,” says Tocker. “To ensure the well-being of our equine therapists, they get ample time off and massages. They’re taking on a lot, so we want to make sure they don’t burn out.” “I have horses that seem to step in and ‘protect’ clients when they are feeling vulnerable. I have horses who try to help regulate the anxious client by breathing or yawning or nuzzling,” says Good. “For the most part, we trust the horses to just be themselves, and what they bring is always helpful for the client.” “Horses are able to be present and focus solely on what is going on around them. They do not think about the future or the past or judge people based on what they look like or what experiences they may have had,” says Tocker. “I feel like I witness miracles every time I do a session at the barn.” Julie Peterson writes about health and wellness from rural Wisconsin. Reach out at JuliePeterson2222@gmail.com. September 2021

Copper Stops Germs Before They Spread

presents ever. This little jewel really works.” Frequent flier Karen Gauci had been suffering after crowded flights. Though skeptical, she tried copper on travel days for 2 months. “Sixteen flights and not a sniffle!” she exclaimed. Businesswoman Rosaleen says when people around her show signs of cold or flu, she uses copper morning and night. cientists have discovered a illnesses by over half and saved lives. “It saved me last holidays,” she said. natural way to kill germs fast. The strong scientific evidence gave “The kids had crud going round and Now thousands of people are using it inventor Doug Cornell an idea. He made round, but not me.” against unwanted viruses and bacteria in a smooth copper probe with a tip to fit in Attorney Donna Blight tried copper the nose and on skin. the bottom of his nose. for her sinus. “I am shocked!” she said. Germs, such The next time “My head cleared, no more headache, no as viruses and he felt a tickle in more congestion.” bacteria, can his nose that felt A man with trouble breathing though multiply fast. like a cold about his nose at night tried copper just before When disease to start, he rubbed bed. “Best sleep I’ve had in years!” he germs get in your the copper gently said. nose they can in his nose for 60 In a lab test, technicians placed 25 spread and cause seconds. million live flu viruses on a CopperZap. misery unless you “I didn’t No viruses were found surviving soon stop them early. get sick,” he after. New device puts copper right where you need it. Hundreds exclaimed. Some people press of studies in the last 20 years by “Due to regulation we don’t copper on a lip right government and university scientists make health claims, so I can’t away if a warning tingle show that copper, a natural element, say if it is cause and effect.” suggests unwanted germs kills germs just by touch. “That was September 2012,” gathering there. The EPA officially declared copper he continued. “I have been using The handle is curved to be “antimicrobial”, meaning it kills it every time and have not had a and textured to increase microbes, including viruses, bacteria, single cold since then.” contact. Copper can and fungus. He asked relatives and kill germs picked up on The National Institutes of Health friends to try it. They reported fingers and hands after Dr. Bill Keevil: Copper kills viruses you touch things other says, “The antimicrobial activity of the same thing, so he patented on contact. copper is now well established.” CopperZap® and put it on the people have touched. Copper’s power to kill germs has market. The EPA says copper still works even been used for thousands of years. Soon hundreds of people had tried it. when tarnished. Buy once, use forever. Ancient Greeks and Egyptians used The feedback was 99% positive if they Made in America of pure copper. copper to purify water and heal wounds. used the copper within 3 hours after 90-day full money back guarantee. Price They didn’t know about microbes, but the first sign of unwanted germs, like a $79.95. Get $10 off each CopperZap now we do. tickle in the nose or a scratchy throat. with code NATA21. Scientists say the high conductance Early user Mary Pickrell said, “I Go to www.CopperZap.com or call of copper disrupts the electrical balance can’t believe how good my nose feels.” toll-free 1-888-411-6114. in a microbe cell by touch and destroys “What a wonderful thing!” exclaimed Statements herein are not intended it in seconds. Physician’s Assistant Julie. Another and should not be interpreted as product Some hospitals tried copper for touch customer asked, “Is it supposed to work health claims, and have not been evaluated by the FDA. Not claimed to surfaces like faucets and doorknobs. that fast?” diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any They say this cut the spread of MRSA, Pat McAllister, 70, received one for disease. which is antibiotic resistant, and other Christmas and called it “one of the best ADVERTORIAL

calendar of events Printed calendar is a gratis feature exclusively for advertisers who make this magazine possible. Non-advertisers are free to use the on-line calendar at NATampa.com.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 Psychic Readings – 11am-4pm. Sept. 6 & 20. Janie Boisclair, a 5C Clairvoyant, uses her skills, including connecting to loved ones passed, chakra clearing, and guidance on foods for healing your body and spirit. $45/15 minutes. Wings, 4500 4th St. North, St Petersburg. To book your appointment, call 727-522-6657.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 Tea Leaf & Tarot Card Readings – 11am-4pm. Sept. 10 & 24. Marilyn Mackey has been reading Tea Leaves for over 30 years. Over that time she has developed as a medium and medical intuitive as well as a counselor to help clients begin to resolve any problems or blockages they may be encountering. $25/15 minutes. Wings, 4500 4th St. North, St Petersburg. To book your appointment, call 727-522-6657.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 Tea Leaf & Tarot Card Readings –11am-4pm. Sept. 11 & 25. As described above.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 NLP 2-Day Training: Live &/or Online – 10am-5pm, September 25 & 26. No prerequisite for this fun, interactive class. Patricia V. Scott, PhD, Certified Master Trainer, teaches NLP principles, presuppositions and techniques for immediate personal or professional use. Live (Dunedin, FL) or online (out-of-area). Register by 9/10: $165; $145/UPHI Mbrs; After 9/10: $185; $165/Mbrs. Repeat $75. 14 CEUs-Hypnotists/NLP Practitioners. 727-943-5003; UPHypnosis.com.

THE AFTERLIFE FREQUENCY THE AFTERLIFE FREQUENCY: The Scientiﬁc Proof of Spiritual Contact and How That Awareness Will Change Your Life by

Mark Anthony, JD Psychic Explorer

World-renowned 4th generation psychic medium and Oxford educated attorney Mark Anthony bridges the divide between faith and science in this fascinating afterlife exploration taking you around the globe, from the cosmic to the subatomic, into the human soul itself. Combining physics, neuroscience and riveting true stories this book: • Reveals how our “Electromagnetic Soul” is pure eternal energy which never dies. • Takes spirit communication, near-death experiences, and deathbed visions out of the shadows of superstition and into The Light of 21st Century Quantum Physics. • Teaches Anthony’s “RAFT Technique” to Recognize contact with spirits, Accept it as real, Feel it without fear, and Trust in the experience. • Provides hope for victims of grief, homicide, suicide, PTSD and survivor’s guilt. • Illuminates how contact with spirits is a powerful instrument of healing and love.

“To put it bluntly, this is an “amazing book that deserves to be enjoyed by millions of readers.” Gary E. Schwartz, PhD, Director of the Laboratory for Advances in Consciousness and Health, University of Arizona and author of “The Afterlife Experiments”.

PLAN AHEAD “Mark Anthony shows that while we cannot control death, we can control how we understand and react to it in healthy ways.”

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 3 Grammy Winning Pianist Peter Kater in Concert – 7 pm. An amazing, soulinspiring evening with 2X Grammy-winning pianist/composer Peter Kater at the piano. Enjoy his spiritually awakening music in Unity of Tampa’s beautifully renovated Sanctuary. $25 advance, $30 day of/door. Unity of Tampa, 2610 Silver Lake Ave., Tampa. BrightStarEvents.com. Info: UnityTampa.org.

Bruce Greyson, MD, co-founder of IANDS and author of “After: A doctor Explores what Near-Death Experiences Reveal about Life and Beyond”

Mark Anthony, JD Psychic Explorer author of The Afterlife Frequency and his other best sellers, Never Letting Go and Evidence of Eternity is cohost of The Psychic & the Doc on The Transformation Network and columnist for Best Holistic Magazine. He appears nationwide on TV and radio as an expert in spirit communication, near-death experiences, paranormal phenomena and as a legal expert. ®

To get your copy go to: Amazon, ﬁne book stores or ATERLIFEFREQUENCY.com. Also available on audio, narrated by Mark Anthony, JD Psychic Explorer (Psychic Lawyer ) ®

www.AfterlifeFrequency.com September 2021

community resource guide

COLON HYDROTHERAPY

Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide call 727.865.9339 or go to NATampa.com and request a media kit.

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. In-network with most medical insurances; accept payments from HRA, HSA and FSA.

NATURAL MED THERAPIES Machelle Perkins, D.O.M. 7600 Bryan Dairy Rd # C, Largo 727-541-2211 NaturalMedTherapies.com

National & state board certified with 15+ years experience in Acupuncture, Homeopathy, Naturopathy, Cold Laser & more. BioPuncture and Mesotherapy to treat pain, ADHD, anxiety, depression. Lab testing, most insurances. Free Nutritional Consultation.

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE LIFEWORKS WELLNESS CENTER

Dr. David Minkoff, M.D. Dr. Christine Wildeman, M.D. Sue Morgan, APRN & Karima Redouan, APRN Rose Tyler, APRN 301 Turner St., Clearwater 727-466-6789 LifeWorksWellnessCenter.com

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.

APOTHECARY SIX OAKS WELLNESS APOTHECARY Carolyn Zinober, LMT, Esthetician, Clinical Herbalist, Aromatherapist 607 1st. Ave. SW, Largo 727-501-1700 SixOaksWellness.com 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 6.

ASTROLOGY ASTROLOGY FOR YOUR SOUL

Aluna Michaels, M.A., Esoteric Astrologer Dunedin 248-583-1663 AlunaMichaels.com 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.”

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.

PROFESSIONAL HERBALISTS TRAINING PROGRAM Acupuncture & Herbal Therapies 2520 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727-551-0857 AcuHerbals.com

CHIROPRACTIC NATURAL LIVING CHIROPRACTIC & WELLNESS CENTER Dr. Paula Giusto 310 South Brevard Ave., Tampa 813-253-2565

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Bonnie Barrett 28469 US Hwy 19 N. #402, Clearwater 727-461-7227 RenewLifeFla.com, Lic# MA14802 MM35406 25 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 6.

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 Spa-like atmosphere. See ad back cover.

CARLO LITANO, DMD

Natural Smiles of Tampa Bay 9087 Belcher Rd., Pinellas Park, 33782 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, 9 & 12.

NaturalLivingChiropractic.org

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. Many open classes. Designed to meet American Herbalists Guild standards. See ad page 29.

RENEW LIFE

Family chiropractic care, wellness care, nutritional counseling, neuromuscular massage therapy. Jin Shin Jyutsu & craniosacral therapy.

To Advertise in the Resource Guide, email Debbey at dwilson@natampa.com or call 727.865.9339.

NATampa.com

ROBERT J. YU, DMD

Tampa Bay Dental Implants & Periodontics 6700 Crosswinds Dr., Ste. 200-B, St. Petersburg 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 10.

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. Outof-Network Provider.

SUCCESS BY DESIGN

9095 Belcher Road, Pinellas Park 727-548-0001 SBDWellness.com A We l l n e s s Center for AgeManagement, 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 7.

TCL MEDICAL

HERBALIST ROSE KALAJIAN—HERBALIST

Natural Health Hut Clinic and Herb Farm 813-991-5177 ImHerbalist.com Specializing in growing the herbs used in my clinic practice and in the Herbal Remedies I formulate. Consultations are available for humans, dogs, cats, and horses. Promoting health through the use of Herbs. See ad pages 10 and 37.

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 MEDICINE CHRISTIE MD FUNCTIONAL & AESTHETIC MEDICINE Dr. Heather Christie 2837 1st Ave. N., St. Petersburg 727-220-9080 ChristieMDfam.com

Functional, Aesthetic and Intravenous Medicine. Offering hormone therapy; nutritional evaluation and therapy; fatigue and stress management; detoxification; diabetes; cardiovascular diseases; weight control; aesthetics. Out-of-Network Provider. See ad page 15.

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 AntiAging 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 pages 11 and 47.

ST. PETERSBURG HEALTH & WELLNESS Dr. Les Cole Kathie Gonzales, ARNP 2100 Dr. MLK Jr. St. N, St. Petersburg 727-202-6807 StPetehw.com AwakeningWellness.org Functional, Regenerative, Integrative & Preventative Medicine. Treating Thyroid, Autoimmune Diseases, Cancer Support, Natural Hormone Replacement, Stem Cells, Exosomes, PRP and Joint Rejuvenation, IV Nutritional Therapy. See ad page 21.

Islam Ganie, PN, ADN, BSN, MSN, RN, FNP-BC, APRN 6613 49th St. North, Pinellas Park 33781 727-954-4543 Instagram: TCL_Medical Facebook: TCL Medical Providing optimal and affordable integrative and holistic health care, including weight loss; anti-aging; IV hydration/ chelation (including IV vitamin C, ozone); gut; thyroid; asthma/respiratory; fatigue/ stress & much more.

YOUNG FOUNDATIONAL HEALTH CENTER John D. Young, M.D. 7241 Bryan Dairy Road, Largo 727-545-4600 YoungFoundationalHealth.com

Author of Beyond Treatment. Creator of Young Health Products. Offering specialized treatments for chronic diseases. Therapies include Bio-identical Hormone, Stem Cell, Vitamin IV, Chelation, Ozone. Special Testing and Nutritional Education. See ad page 5.

INTUITIVE HEALING RONNI FORD YOGA AND ENERGY HEALING Dunedin 340-626-9642 RonniFordyeh@gmail.com

Intuitive crystal healer and yoga instructor; 22 years’ experience. Awaken: messages from your incarnated soul; energy and energetic healing; food sensitivity awareness. Group yoga and private healing sessions available online, by phone or in-person.

You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough. ~Mae West September 2021

INTUITIVE HEALING SOLGARDEN HOLISTIC THERAPY, LLC Ellen Mooney, Reiki Master 727-754-4340 EllenMooney7@gmail.com SolGardenHolistic.com

SPIRITUAL INTUITIVE LISA MILIARESIS

Extreme Communication 727-239-0656 Lisa@2Communicate.net 2Communicate.net Lisa offers private individual and group channeling sessions, as well as private counseling sessions for those looking for direction in developing their own personal practice.

Relax, de-stress and come back to the peace of your Soul with Guided Meditations, Intuitive Healing or Usui Reiki sessions by phone and in-person. With over 25 years’ experience and training, I will help you release energy clutter and shift you to your true light-filled self. Gift Certificates available.

INTEGRAL AWARENESS MEDITATION

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, Numerologist, Meditation, Chakra-Balancing, Tarot/Oracles, Candles, EOL Transition, Teacher/Mentor & more. See website.

Larry Castellani, Ph.D. 716-816-5464 I.Am.Meditation108@gmail.com

I have 30 yrs. experience teaching college philosophy and meditation. My soul promise and commitment is to guide you to find inner peace and happiness—your birthright.

REED ‘NAHAM’ MYLES

Certified Reflexologist and LMT 727-543-3048 by appointment Clearwater MA0028171

THERMOGRAPHY John D. Bartone MD Thomas Hudson 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 31.

Whether you need deep therapy, a tuneup or just a relaxing treatment, I can help you. Just call me.

MASTERS’ DOJO

Shihan Lynn Montana Freemãn Sun City Center 267-474-4717 LynnMontanaf@aol.com Shihando Reiki Master; 30 years’ experience. Private and group training. Beautiful crystals, candles, incense, books and giftables. Private healing sessions and shopping by appointment only.

Tampa Bay Edition

HEALTHY PAWSIBILITIES NATURAL PET WELLNESS CENTER Dr. Cathy Alinovi, DVM 628 Cleveland St., #17, 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.

Shawna L. Green, DVM 13495 Gulf Boulevard Madeira Beach 727-299-9029 MedicineRiverAnimalHospital.com

Compassionate health care catered toward the needs of your pet offering preventative medicine, surgery, dentistry, senior wellness, and more. See ad page 41.

To Advertise in the Resource Guide, email Debbey at dwilson@natampa.com or call 727.865.9339.

REIKI

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 25.

MEDICINE RIVER ANIMAL HOSPITAL GREENPOINT THERMOGRAPHY

REFLEXOLOGY

June Drennon, CCT 2008 JuneDrennon@FloridaMedicalThermography.com 727-729-2711 FloridaMedicalThermography.com

VETERINARIAN UNIVERSOULLIGHT CONSULTING

MEDITATION

FLORIDA MEDICAL THERMOGRAPHY

NATampa.com

Natural Awakenings Tampa Bay September 2021

Articles inside

HORSES AS HEALERS

HEALTHY COOKWARE

YOGA TO HEAL TRAUMA

THE POWER OF THE WRITTEN NOTE

ART'S EMBRACE

CREATIVE KIDS

CONQUERING CHRONIC PAIN