Natural Awakenings Columbia Edition 0623

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Balancing the Wheels of Life …

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“Just as your car runs more smoothly and requires less energy to go faster and farther when the wheels are in perfect alignment, you perform better when your thoughts, feelings, emotions, goals and values are in balance.” These are the words of TV host Brian Tracy, reflecting on the topic of balance. The fact is that many individuals either don’t understand or underestimate the importance of maintaining proper balance—mentally, emotionally and physically. How important is balance? Consider our amazing planet, the Earth.

As the Earth orbits around the Sun, it must make minute adjustments to conform to its elliptical “track.” It digresses from a straight line one-ninth of an inch every 18 miles. If the change were a 10th of an inch, the Earth would be too cold for life. If the adjustment were an eighth of an inch, the Earth’s surface would be a blazing oven. What an amazing (and … yes, a little scary) display of precise balance. The Earth’s axis measures 23.5 degrees away from the Sun’s axis of rotation. Because of this precise tilt, we enjoy defined seasons—again, balance on display.

What about the oceans that we flock to, even in our great state? They play a critical role in regulating the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, absorbing nearly onethird of human-caused carbon dioxide emissions. In fact, approximately 93 percent of the Earth’s carbon dioxide is found in its oceans. They also regulate the weather and form the clouds that bring fresh water, vital to our existence. Ocean plants also produce half of the world’s oxygen.

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© 2023 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

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As our natural world clearly reveals, balance is crucial. I know that I often center my thoughts on women …but what about men, specifically those in our lives? I feel it’s no coincidence that Tracy used the example of a car when reflecting upon the topic of balance. Most men love their automobiles, often caring for them better than they do themselves. They wash them, wax them and meticulously service them, maintaining good running condition. However, when it comes to finding balance and maintaining good personal health, wellness and relationships … the tires of life are often “flat” with no oil left in the engine.

In fact, health and wellness statistics reveal that many men are in great need of a “tune up” or “realignment.” According to the Centers for Disease Control, the percentage of men 20 years and older impacted by obesity is 34.6 percent. Likewise, the percentage of men suffering from hypertension is 31.6 percent, with cancer and heart disease being two of the three leading causes of death for men. Many men also find it difficult to process and communicate emotional hurts, struggles and personal challenges correctly and effectively, often resulting in strained and broken relationships.

On behalf of wives, kids, friends and families everywhere, I declare to our beloved men, “Man up!” For the sake of all in your world, I encourage and challenge you (whom I greatly esteem) to take a good look “under the hood” and make the tough but necessary choices related to health, wellness and relationships. Find that elusive balance, as Tracy observed, to go further fully aligned.

Happy Father’s Day,

Annette Carter Briggs, Publisher

Foot Savi and

Joni’s Merle Norman Boutique Host June Fashion Show

Foot Savi and Joni’s Merle Norman

Boutique are partnering together to host a fashion show on Saturday, June 24, at the Murraywood Shopping Center, located at 7001 Saint Andrews Road, Suite 16, in Columbia. Kicking off around 3:30 p.m. and free to enter, the unique experience will feature great door prizes and vendor drawings showcasing fun and unique products. A makeover will also be raffled away. Those interested in becoming vendors or possibly wanting to participate as vendor models (for makeup, shoes or clothing) should contact Zoe at 803-479-7859.

For more information, call 803-479-7859 or visit FootSavi.com. See ad, page 9.

Camp Wildwood 2023

From Sunday, June 18, to Saturday, June 24, the Garden Club of South Carolina Inc., the South Carolina Wildlife Federation (SCWF), the Harry Hampton Memorial Wildlife Fund, South Carolina State Parks, and the S.C. Department of Natural Resources are partnering together to sponsor Camp Wildwood at Kings Mountain State Park, located at 1277 Park Road, in Blacksburg, South Carolina.

Camp Wildwood is a high-energy, fun-filled environmental camp featuring extensive hands-on learning. Over the course of the week, participants will acquire the knowledge and appreciation needed for the protection and wise use of vital, but limited, natural resources. Camp Wildwood is a place and space to learn important quality and character traits, such as self-reliance, self-discipline and independence in an outdoor setting. It is a place to build self-confidence in relationships, to learn how to cooperate within a group, and to understand the importance of our diverse natural resources. Scholarships are available through SCWF.

Cost: See website for details. For more information, including camp details, call 803-256-0670, or visit scwf.org or CampWildwoodSC.org.

The 2023 South Carolina Ag + Art Tour

The South Carolina Ag + Art Tour is a free, self-guided tour of farms and markets featuring local artisans at every stop. The S.C. Ag + Art Tour includes farms and artisans located in 11 counties, with different counties participating each weekend in June on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m. Now in its 12th year, this popular farm and art tour is a great way for residents to learn about where their local food, fiber and forest products come from and to meet local artisans.

Tour stops include farms, farmers markets and other agriculture- and art-related establishments, with artisans at each location. Artisans on the tour range from weavers, painters, musicians, storytellers, metalworkers and craftsmen to poets and live musical performances. Some farms will offer value-added products, such as jarred and canned foods, honey, baked goods or even farm-fresh meals.

For more information, including a list of participating sites, dates and artisans, visit AgAndArtTour.com. See ad, page 31.

KAB and KMB Host the Great American Cleanup

The Great American Cleanup continues! The Great American Cleanup (GAC) is an annual, nationwide effort created by Keep America Beautiful (KAB). Starting on the first day of spring (March 20) and ending on the first day of summer (June 21), the campaign is designed to encourage Americans to remove litter and beautify their communities. Keep the Midlands Beautiful (KMB) supports the GAC campaign across the Midlands through sustainable projects with partnering agencies, businesses, community members and organizations. The cleanup program is designed and tailored to the unique needs of local neighborhoods and communities throughout the state and nation. Activities include beautifying parks and recreation areas, cleaning waterways, holding recycling collections, picking up litter, planting trees and flowers, and conducting educational programs and litter-free events. KMB loans out gloves, vests, bags and grabbers for the cleanup efforts. The organization also helps organizers select geographic areas of need, recruit volunteers, and arrange for trash and debris pickup by the city or county.

For more information, call 803-7331139, email Lauren@KeepTheMidlandsBeautiful.org, or visit KeepTheMidlandsBeautiful.org or kab.org.

ICRC Hosts Paddle and Pint

OnFriday, June 23, from 6 to 8 p.m., the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission (ICRC) is hosting its Paddle and Pint event at Saluda Shoals Park. For adults ages 21 and up, participants will enjoy the scenic view while paddling the Lower Saluda River, fully surrounded by beautiful scenery and S.C. wildlife. After spending an hour on the water, guests will then have the opportunity to sample delicious craft beers at the River Overlook. Attendees will be given a complimentary Saluda Shoals Park glass that commemorates the evening to take home. Boats and all necessary equipment needed will be provided. As a note, the trip is dependent upon the weather and the river levels.

Cost: $47 per person. Location: 5605 Bush River Rd., Columbia. For more information, call 803-772-1228 or visit icrc.net/event/ paddle-and-pint-0.

ICRC Hosts Saluda Splash Renovation Celebration

On Saturday, June 3, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission (ICRC) is hosting its Splash Renovation Celebration at Saluda Shoals Park, located at 5605 Bush River Road, in Columbia. All fun and exciting activities will take place at Saluda Shoals’ splash pad. Food trucks (Café Srudel, Pizza for Pyros, Brain Freeze and Haute Dog Lady) will be on-site from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. As a part of the celebration, ICRC will also host its Wonder of Water event at the splash pad shelter from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Admission is free to the splash pad the entire day.

Cost: $5 (parking fee). For more information, call 803-772-1228 or visit icrc.net/ event/saluda-splash-renovation-celebration.

1 with Nature Therapies

Certified holistic healthcare practitioner Amber Addy is currently offering a new client special for only $50. This includes a urine test (with background and history) as well as a physical exam of the eyes, face, tongue and nails. Recommendations and follow-ups can be made after the consultation. A variety of services are offered, including but not limited to: muscle testing, energy clearing, cupping, reflexology, iridology, mud-packing, aromatherapy, homeopathic remedies, herbs, TDP heat lamp, acupressure, meditation guidance, yoga and qigong moves, chakra balance and emotional release techniques.

Addy received her certification from Trinity School of Natural Health after researching and using natural remedies to heal the root cause of all her suffering. After numerous trips to medical doctors and numerous ineffective medications, she turned to natural remedies and discovered that all diseases have a root cause. “The person must be treated as a whole,” exclaims Addy. “Once lifestyle foundations are maintained, the body can best provide the individual with what it needs.”

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call or text to 803-269-9835. Also visit @1withnaturetherapies on Facebook and Instagram. See ad, page 22.

ICRC Hosts Cooking with Dad

On Saturday, June 10, from noon to 2 p.m., the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission (ICRC) is hosting its very special Father’s Day Cooking with Dad experience at Seven Oaks Park, located at 200 Leisure Lane, in Columbia. For chefs ages 7 and up, the cooking class is designed to bring parents and kids into the kitchen together for a fun-filled, healthy experience.

Cost: $65 (one parent and one child). For more information, call 803-772-3336 or visit icrc. net/event/cooking-dad-0.

EEASC Hosts June Meetup

It’s time to meet up! On Thursday, June 8, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., the Environmental Education Association of South Carolina (EEASC) is hosting a green networking “meetup” informal session for environmental educators at Grice Beach (behind Grice Marine Laboratory – College of Charleston) on Fort Johnson Road, in Charleston. Participants will join EEASC and the South Carolina Marine Educators Association (SCMEA) for an afternoon of seining, beachcombing and marine-themed art activities. A free event, attendees will also explore the beautiful and undeveloped Grice Beach, where they will discover different flora and fauna types caught in the seine net and found along the shoreline. Following the day’s activities, a delicious dinner will be served—to include network opportunities and creative activities utilizing the day’s beach findings. Participants should expect to get wet during this experience and closedtoe shoes are required. This event is open to both EEASC and SCMEA members and nonmembers. The registration deadline is Thursday, June 1. Attendees are encouraged to come prepared to share upcoming event information (including flyers) and sustainable program updates with the gathered group in this intentionally informal setting.

Location: To register, visit Survey\Monkey.com/r/CFJ9X3T. For more information, visit eeasc.org/ event-5290116.

Returning to Columbia this July is the Spiritual Fusions Psychic and Holistic Expo!

Bring a friend and explore the possibilities! Spiritual Fusion’s much-anticipated two-day event features astrologers, holistic practitioners, intuitive counselors, reiki, psychics, aura photography, henna and more! Come and experience powerful and insightful sessions for ONLY $20. Spiritual Fusion’s unique mission is to provide a powerful experience that enables individuals to discover new ways to nourish their souls and enrich their lives at an affordable price.

The two-day event will be hosted on July 29 and 30 (Saturday and Sunday), from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the Columbia Metro Center, located at 1101 Lincoln Street, in Columbia. Admission is $9 for kids (12 and under are free).

Participants can also enjoy FREE lectures and raffles. A wide array of vendors will be on-site offering crystals, jewelry, healing tools, art and many exciting opportunities for personal growth, self-improvement and empowerment. Come and receive the healing and life guidance you’ve been searching for in a fun, festive, energetic and high-vibration environment. There’s truly something for everyone. It’s time for life transformation!

For more information, visit SpiritualFusions.com. Also visit Facebook.com/ SpiritualFusions or Instagram.com/@ SpiritualFusions. See ad, page 29.

Original Origins Hosts Community Wellness Discussion in June

On Sunday, June 11, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., Original Origins Health and Wellness is hosting its Community Wellness Discussion—Message to the Masses: Sugar, the Socially Accepted Addiction—at the Richland Library-Sandhills, located at 763 Fashion Drive, in Columbia. This is a free event; however, registration is required. Refreshments will be provided.

For more information or to register, contact Ms. Tracy at 833-678-7229 or OriginalOriginsHW@gmail.com. See ad, page 12.

S.C. State Museum Hosts Friday Night Laser Lights

in June

TheS.C. State Museum is hosting its Friday Night Laser Lights event on Friday, June 16, from 6 to 10 p.m. An adult event, participants will enjoy special shows featuring lasers choreographed to iconic music inside the museum’s 55-foot digital dome in the BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina Planetarium. Other event highlights include a cash bar with craft beer selections, wine, specialty drinks and nonalcoholic beverages and delicious food for purchase from local food trucks. Advance online ticket purchases are strongly recommended.

Please note: Laser shows contain bright, flashing lights that may cause discomfort to those with light sensitivity or other pre-existing conditions.

Cost: $10 for members; $8 for nonmembers. Location: 301 Gervais St., Columbia. For more information, call 803-898-4921 or visit SCMuseum.org/events/friday-night-laser-lights-june.

ICRC Hosts Sunset on the Shoals

Are you ready for a great time on the water? On Friday, June 9, from 6 to 8 p.m., the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission (ICRC) is hosting its Sunset on the Shoals event at Saluda Shoals Park. For adults ages 21 and up, participants will enjoy an interpretive one-hour paddle tour on the Saluda River while learning about the rich and unique history of the area. The tour will be followed by a wine tasting. Light refreshments will be served at 6 p.m. As a note, the trip is dependent on weather and river levels. Boats and all necessary equipment needed will be provided.

Cost: $47 per person. Location: 5605 Bush River Rd., Columbia. For more information, call 803-772-1228 or visit icrc.net/event/sunset-shoals-0.

KMB Hosts Lakeside Litter Sweep

Keep the Midlands Beautiful

(KMB) is hosting its Lakeside Litter Sweep event on Saturday, September 16, around areas of Lake Murray. Local Midlands area residents are welcome to join more than 20 event partners and approximately 250 volunteers coming together to clean up Lake Murray's shorelines, islands and water while having a great time. Volunteers can choose to stay onshore, utilize their own boats or sign up for a free pontoon boat ride to the islands designated to be cleaned. Preregistration is required.

For more information or to register, call 803-733-1139 or visit KeepTheMidlandsBeautiful.org.

The Wonders of Saffron

Saffron, like most other plants and herbs, is rich in antioxidants (substances that help fight cell damage). Saffron stimulates the secretion of dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine—all the neurotransmitters associated with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and attention-deficit disorder (ADD).

This incredible herb has been shown to improve mood; cognitive, emotional and behavioral abilities; and sleep patterns. Not only is saffron great for ADHD/ADD and depression, but it is also wonderful for diabetes. Diabetes can cause sleep disturbance and sleep dysregulation. A new double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that saffron helps with diabetes, significantly reducing and improving blood sugar, insulin resistance, insulin, total cholesterol, LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, liver function and triglycerides.

Additionally, saffron can help fight cancer; increase libido; improve eye health; help prevent heart disease; may improve PMS (premenstrual syndrome) symptoms; may reduce appetite and aid in weight loss; relieve gas and acidity; remedy asthma; help heal wounds; promote digestion; boost functioning of the brain; and has been shown to be beneficial during pregnancy.

For more information, call 839-207-0057 or visit RadiantHolisticHealing.net. See ad, page 8.

COMING IN JULY

Regenerative Organic Farming

Rise in Children With Autism

In March, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) released updated statistics on the rate of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which has been steadily on the rise. One in 36 children was diagnosed with autism by age 8 in 2020, or about 2.8 percent of children, up from one in 44 children in 2018, and one in 150 children in 2000 when the CDC first established the Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network to track ASD prevalence in this country.

Autism was 3.8 times as prevalent among boys (4 percent) as girls (1 percent), and for the first time among 8-year-old children, the prevalence was slightly lower among white children than other racial and ethnic groups, which is a reversal of racial and ethnic differences observed in the past. The CDC partially attributes these patterns to improved screening, awareness and access to services.

The report included communities in 11 states that participate in the CDC Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network—Arizona, Arkansas, California, Georgia, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, Tennessee, Utah and Wisconsin. Children included in this report were born in 2012 and lived in surveillance areas during 2020. ASD prevalence varied from state to state, with Maryland having the lowest and California the highest observed rates.

New Insights on Water Consumption Requirements

We have been conditioned to believe that eight glasses of water are required each day, but new research published in Science found that daily water needs vary based on numerous factors. Researchers studied 5,604 people aged 8 to 96 from 23 countries, measuring their water turnover—the amount of water lost and replaced each day. They found that for most healthy adults, drinking eight cups of water a day is unnecessary because water needs vary depending on age, sex, body size, physical activity level, athletic status, pregnancy, socioeconomic status and environmental characteristics such as latitude, altitude, air temperature and humidity. People that lived in less developed countries had higher water turnover than people from developed countries. While hydration should be prioritized, most people that pay attention to their bodies and drink when thirsty are likely drinking enough water.

Fran.Vila/ShutterStock.com

Indian Food Images/ShutterStock.com

Smartphones Make Poor Babysitters

Parents are busy people, often juggling multiple commitments. Add a toddler meltdown to the mix, and it is easy to understand why parents may reach for a tablet, smartphone or other screen to calm and occupy the child. A new study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that children pay a price for this strategy.

Researchers at the University of Michigan concluded that the frequent use of mobile devices to calm young children may displace their opportunities for learning emotion-regulation strategies over time. The cohort study involved a sample of English-speaking parents of typically developing children aged 3 to 5. The scientists gathered baseline data at the start of the study, as well as follow-up evidence after three months and six months.

The participating parents used a five-point scale to report how often they used mobile devices to calm upset children. At each follow-up, the child’s executive functioning and emotional reactivity were assessed. The study found that the frequent use of mobile devices for calming young children was associated with increased emotional dysregulation, especially in boys, and included rapid shifts between sadness and excitement, greater impulsivity and sudden mood changes.

Herbs and Spices Promote Gut Health

A 2022 research study published in The Journal of Nutrition suggests that herbs and spices may be unsung heroes in the quest for gut health. The three-period, randomized, controlled-feeding study involved 54 obese or overweight adults aged 30 to 75 with at least one other risk factor for cardiovascular disease, such as elevated glucose or triglycerides.

Participants consumed the same average American diet for four weeks, along with one of three daily doses of spices and herbs—0.5 grams, 3.3 grams or 6.6 grams—which included cinnamon, ginger, cumin, turmeric, rosemary, oregano, basil and thyme. Fecal samples were collected at the start of the study and the end of each diet period.

Researchers determined that consuming 3.3 or 6.6 grams of herbs and spices per day increased levels of the Ruminococcaceae bacteria, a major player in the maintenance of gut health. The highest levels of this beneficial bacteria were observed among those that consumed the highest levels of herbs and spices. The scientists recommend further investigation to identify the metabolic implications of their findings.

Daily Intense Activity Prolongs Life

A new study in the journal Nature Medicine suggests that short bursts of intense movement are associated with a lower risk of premature death. The UK researchers analyzed data from about 25,000 non-exercisers with an average age of 62 that wore movement tracking devices on their wrists.

Vigorous intermittent lifestyle physical activity (VILPA) refers to short, sporadic bursts of exertion done as part of daily living, such as walking very fast while commuting to work or climbing stairs. The scientists found that compared to participants that engaged in no VILPA, those that did just one to two minutes of VILPA three to four times daily exhibited a 38 to 40 percent lower risk of death over the course of seven years. They also noted that just a few minutes of VILPA throughout the day reduced cardiovascular disease-related mortality by up to 49 percent.

Similar results were obtained when they analyzed vigorous physical activity in roughly 62,000 participants that exercised regularly. VILPA in non-exercisers appears to elicit similar effects to vigorous physical activity in exercisers, suggesting that VILPA may be a suitable physical activity target, especially in people not able or willing to exercise on a regular basis.

Ruslan Huzau/ShutterStock.com

Fran.Vila/ShutterStock.com

Fran.Vila/ShutterStock.com

Open Letter to Pause AI Experiments

A group of leading technology executives, researchers, academics and others from around the world have signed an open letter prepared by the Future of Life Institute calling for a six-month pause on large, human-competitive artificial intelligence (AI) experiments. As of March 31, more than 1,800 CEOs and 1,500 professors had signed the letter.

“AI labs are locked in an out-of-control race to develop and deploy ever more powerful digital minds that no one— not even their creators—can understand, predict or reliably control,” the letter contends. The authors are concerned that “AI systems are now becoming human-competitive at general tasks.”

While AI systems grow more powerful, there is no natural law or barrier to technical progress. The letter’s authors and signers are asking all AI labs to pause the training of powerful AI systems so that safety protocols can be implemented to ensure the effects of these systems will be positive and the risks manageable. According to the letter, “If such a pause cannot be enacted quickly, governments should step in and institute a moratorium.”

Individuals can view and sign the letter at Tinyurl.com/ AImoratorium.

Plastic Rocks Found on Remote Brazilian Island

Brazilian researchers have discovered rocks formed from plastic debris in the permanently preserved area of Trindade Island, approximately 680 miles off the coast of Brazil. The island is a remote refuge for green turtles, which come by the thousands every year to lay their eggs. The only human inhabitants of the island are members of the Brazilian navy.

The team of researchers ran chemical tests on the rocks, called plasticglomerates, and determined that they were formed when fishing nets were dragged by the current and accumulated on the beach. It is believed that the nets melt when the temperature rises and they become embedded with the sedimentary granules and other debris on the beach.

Barefoot Blessings BASKING IN THE SOUL OF SUMMER

by Marlaina Donato

Summer is a splashy reward after winter wears out its welcome. Spring barely has time to shake blossoms from her hair before we plunge headfirst into summer plans: vacations, barbecues and home improvement. As birds and humans go about their inspired tasks, bees and butterflies dive into their own nectarous agenda. There is no arguing that we all wake up feeling a little bit younger as the days burn longer. Pulling weeds from the garden, deadheading the zinnias, digging our toes into wet sand and picking up sustenance at the local farmers market bring us back to our primal

rhythm. We are more inclined to throw our cares to the wind and lean out of life’s open car window on the way to nowhere in particular. We do not need a plane ticket to exotic shores to find our bliss, only curiosity to explore our own backyards and fall in love with our familiar, well-worn lives.

Timed perfectly, each blossom on the wayside and in the fields has its own hour and medicine. Wildflower wisdom teaches us that we, too, can flourish on seemingly impossible terrain despite fierce opposition from those that do not recognize our value. The blessing of birdsong reminds us that our own survival game can be equally as beautiful when we embody our unique soul-note. Getting up a little earlier can lower our risk of depression and give us a front-row seat to the dew-covered world.

June beckons us to light an outdoor fire on the solstice and watch fireflies fall in love in light codes. At full power, the sun represents the sacred masculine and nature’s resurrection. We are invited to dance with the Green Man, Europe’s ancient symbol of rebirth peering from dappled forests and over church doorways. We are invited to schedule some actual repose into our vacations, even if we just take a holiday at home with a good book under a breezy tree. We are invited to live.

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

Greener Grilling

The aroma of tasty treats sizzling on an outdoor grill evokes memories of laughter among family and friends, picnic tables brimming with colorful foods and the joy of running barefoot in the grass. This year, consider adding a few eco-friendly upgrades to America’s favorite summer tradition.

Fuel Source Matters

The biggest environmental impact from outdoor grilling comes from the fuel source. Here is a handy comparison of the options.

n Charcoal briquettes are little chunks of carbon made by baking wood byproducts, sawdust and other additives. Charcoal burns inefficiently and produces caustic smoke before and after the useful temperature for cooking. To reduce the carbon footprint, consider sustainably sourced bamboo or coconut shells to flame up the barbie.

n Gas grills burn fossil fuels like propane or natural gas. On the other

hand, they produce fewer carbon emissions than charcoal, heat more quickly and can be turned off immediately.

n Electric grills may seem more eco-friendly for backyard cookouts, but most electricity is derived from fossil fuels. If the home runs on renewable energy, electric wins. Otherwise, gas grills have a smaller carbon footprint.

n Infrared is the latest in barbecue technology. These pricey outdoor grills can reach high temperatures quickly, use less fuel and cook foods evenly. Because they use electric or gas heating elements that radiate infrared waves to the food, they generally run for less time than other grills. One drawback is that their high temperatures can easily overcook or burn foods, especially ingredients that don’t need high temperatures, like fish, vegetables and other seafood.

Cleaning Is Paramount

Regardless of the fuel source, it is important to keep the grill free of grease and food particles to prevent more smoke. When the grill is still warm, clean the grates with a wire brush. If grates are already cool, scrub with baking soda and water.

Caramelized Fruits and Vegetables

Burgers and ribs may be synonymous with traditional cookouts, but the modern barbecue menu isn’t all about meat. Recipes abound for grilled veggies and fruits that lend a delicious smoky and caramelized flavor to these nutritious foods. Embrace the appeal of slightly charred corn on the cob, browned portobello mushrooms and grill-marked pineapple. If meat-free burgers won’t please the crowd, look for certified organic, grass-fed and locally raised meats.

Conscious Fatherhood

BUILDING A BETTER FAMILY

by Julie Peterson

Some dads believe they need to work long hours so that they can purchase better things and go on fancier vacations, but research shows that, outside of escaping poverty, money doesn’t buy happiness. Even for children, it’s not about stuff or destinations; it’s about time spent together. Fortunately, there are men teaching men to embrace the fatherhood role and take action in ways that matter most.

“All men desire to be loved, valued, needed and respected, and to know they are leaving a mark on this world. Many men look for this fulfillment in career and hobbies, but this can be found by embracing their role as fathers,” says Ned Schaut, the Hawaii-based author of The Adventure of Fatherhood. He notes that the way fathers choose to live and perform their parental roles can affect a family for generations.

Learning what fatherhood entails isn’t easy for men that grew up without involved dads, which may leave them doubting that they have what it takes to lead their families. “There are endless resources to help us in our businesses or careers, but our society doesn’t get behind the message that strong families matter, that present, engaged fathers matter,” says Chris Smith, founder of Campfire Effect, a coaching business for entrepreneurs in Arizona. “In business, we apply principles around values, culture, leadership and growth, and then we go home and don’t apply these same principles.”

Define Values

The lack of fatherhood guidance led Smith to develop Family Brand, an eight-week program designed to strengthen familial bonds and create an intentional family culture. Part of the process involves parents and their kids understanding who they are and defining their values. The family joins

together to come up with a series of statements to hang on the wall as a reminder of their identity and purpose.

Smith Family Brand Statements:

n We believe you can be who you want to be.

n Smiths can talk about anything without judgment.

n Smiths are kindhearted.

n Smiths are creators.

n Smiths do hard things.

n Smiths are healthy and active.

n Smiths love and support one another. Schaut offers a similar lesson plan called Family Core Values, which prompts families to decide where and how to spend their time and money, and to identify what they do and do not want. “It helps us make decisions or have conversations about who we are and how we want to treat others,” he says.

A mission statement hangs on the wall at the home of Ben Greenfield, the Washington-based author of Boundless Parenting: Tools, Tactics and Habits of Great Parents “It’s a collection of the family values, what the family stands for and holds dear, and what the parents want to pass on to their children,” he explains. These kinds of value statements help promote positive energy in the home. “If

the language spoken at home is limiting and negative, those words become energy that create more of that. We need to use language that is about confidence, kindheartedness and teamwork,” says Smith.

Balance Priorities

According to Schaut, “There will not be an equal balance of time in all categories of life.” Fathers need to understand what matters most to them and then dedicate their time, money and energy in alignment with those priorities.

For Smith, his family comes first, and he makes sure that his business revolves around the home. “We always prioritize family, even if that comes at the price of career,” he says.

Greenfield stacks his priorities in this order: faith first, followed by his relationship with his spouse, family, health and business. His time is meticulously scheduled so that he can dedicate quality time to all of his priorities. He regularly involves his kids in his spiritual practice and exercise routines to set an example and instill positive habits.

Time dedicated to each child is a priority in strong families. Each of Greenfield’s kids has monthly one-on-one dates with Mom and with Dad, two-on-one quality time every Sunday and daily check-ins every morning and during family dinners. “We’ve noticed that our kids will open up and talk to us during a one-on-one,” Smith asserts.

Discipline With Love

Smith suggests reimagining the way dads approach discipline. “If you tell your kid, ‘What you did was bad,’ it’s hard for them to hear what you say next, because you are attacking them. If we talk about working or not working, you can say, ‘That really doesn’t work and here’s why.’ Kids are then more open to hearing and learning,” he explains.

Discipline needs to be thoughtfully appropriate for each child and each situation. “You have to know and be in tune with your kid,” says Schaut. “When you discipline them, it must come from love and you responding as a dad to the situation, not reacting.”

But talking will never overcome modeling. “What they see you doing is more important than the advice you give them,” says Greenfield. “At the end of the day, kids just want to be seen and loved and heard.”

Julie Peterson writes on health, wellness and environmental topics. Reach out at JuliePeterson2222@gmail.com.

Photo courtesy of Chris Smith

WHAT EVERY MAN WANTS SEXUAL VITALITY AT EVERY AGE

by Carrie Jackson

For men, sexual health is a key, but often overlooked, component of overall wellness. A man in optimal physical shape is able to fully enjoy and participate in sexual activity with an active libido and the ability to sustain an erection. Poor sexual health can lead to depression, prostate cancer, erectile dysfunction and other troublesome symptoms and conditions.

Fortunately, male sexual function is better understood medically than ever before, and it is more common for men to talk with their doctors and other professionals about topics that seemed taboo not that long ago. New technology is making it easier to diagnose and treat common problems, and it is widely understood that physical, neurological, hormonal, interpersonal and mental factors all play into sexual wellness. By taking a proactive and holistic approach to their overall wellness, men can enjoy a robust sex drive and performance long into their later years.

Maintaining Libido and Energy

Eric Plasker, a licensed chiropractor and author of The 100 Year Lifestyle, attests that sexual health does not have to decline with age, and men can proactively counter that myth with

mindful lifestyle choices. “If you’re aging in a healthy manner, your libido does not have to decline. By taking part in activities you find fulfilling and nurturing your mind, body and spirit, your sexual energy can stay naturally high,” Plasker explains.

He recommends that people take an energy inventory to assess which activities and lifestyle choices are serving them. “Make a list of all the things you do that help you gain energy and those that drain your energy. This includes the food you eat, hobbies, habits, even people you spend time with. Then see how you can turn the drainers into gainers. For example, if driving in traffic makes you angry, put on relaxing music and do deep breathing exercises to shift yourself into a more positive state. These shifts will make you more energetic, stronger, more passionate and present with your partners, and you’ll have more energy to be sexual and loving,” he says.

Sexual health depends on a healthy nervous system, and maintaining a balanced flow of hormones and neurotransmitters is essential for proper neurological function. According to Plasker, disease, inactivity and inflammation—especially in the lumbar spine and sacroiliac joints—can cause a communication breakdown.

“Blockages in the nervous system flow can cause disruption to the sexual organs and lead to a compromised libido,” he explains. “Chiropractic adjustments, combined with regular exercise, will help raise cortisol, reduce stress and open up these pathways in the body. I recommend that patients find an activity they enjoy, such as swimming or tennis, so it becomes an enjoyable part of their routine,” Plasker says.

Optimizing Hormones

According to Tracy Gapin, a board-certified urologist in Sarasota, Florida, strong sexual health and desire is a window to overall health. He helps patients reach their sexual potential with a combination of science-based medicine and holistic practices. “The body is one connected system, and great sexual function is an indication that your body is optimized,” he advises.

While testosterone is widely known to affect sex drive, Gapin looks at the interplay of a variety of other hormones, too.

Hormone optimization, testosterone therapy and peptide therapy, which utilizes the body’s own amino acids to increase hormone levels, are non-invasive outpatient tools that men can use to analyze and optimize their sex drive.

“The body produces over 50 hormones, which all contribute to regulating biological processes,” he explains. “Low testosterone can lead to weight gain, anxiety, erectile dysfunction and other serious health issues, including diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Men want to optimize their thyroid and DHT [dihydrotestosterone] levels, both of which can lower the sex drive when compromised. Vitamin D helps regulate the gut, which controls the health of the entire body. Neurotrans mitters, which help release feel-good endorphins such as serotonin and dopamine, are made in the gut and can affect depression, anxiety and other issues that lower libido.”

Gapin stresses that it is more important to think about “opti mal” levels of hormones instead of “normal” ranges and encour ages patients to move beyond the basic blood tests to assess their health. “Besides sex drive, testosterone also affects cardiovascular health, muscle and bone strength, fat mass, cognitive health and even longevity, so it’s important to be aware of your own levels,” he says. “Every man is different, and the range in which you feel and perform your best is what’s right for you. With medical advice constantly changing, it can be a challenge to keep track of all the recommended tests. DNA testing, epigenetic age assessments, ad vanced lipid panels, inflammation markers and thyroid testing can all give insight to how the body is functioning as a whole.”

Treating Prostate Cancer

According to the American Cancer Society, one in eight men in the United States will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. It is, in fact, the most common cancer among Amer ican men. Prostate cancer is more likely to develop in older men and in non-Hispanic Black men. About six cases in 10 are diag nosed in men that are 65 or older, and it is rare in men under 40. Gapin asserts that preventative and proactive lifestyle choices can drastically reduce the risk. “New, non-invasive MRI treat ments are making it easier to detect and diagnose cancer earlier by highlighting suspicious areas in the prostate and targeting them for biopsy,” he explains, adding that men diagnosed with prostate cancer have a number of treatment options.

“Traditionally, patients would have the prostate removed and undergo radiation. However, these procedures come with a list of disturbing side effects. A newer, FDA-approved treatment called high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a non-invasive pro cedure that eradicates prostate cancer,” Gapin notes. “HIFU is an outpatient procedure with excellent oncologic outcomes, minimal side effects and quick recovery times.”

Incorporating Lifestyle Solutions

As an osteopathic doctor and integrative medicine practitioner at the Masley Optimal Health Center, in St. Petersburg, Florida, Tarin Forbes looks at the root causes of disease and dysfunction. She, too, considers sexual health an integral component of overall well

ness and gives patients the tools to achieve their desired sexual potential. “While every person is different, optimal sexual health usually means that men wake up with a morning erection, desire intercourse on a daily basis and can reach an erection without stimulation or genital contact,” she remarks.

Making mindful choices that prioritize nutrition will naturally improve sexual health. “Nourish yourself with a whole food, plant-based diet rich in nutrients, including nitrate-rich foods and foods rich in vitamin C and folate, which boost nitric oxide, the main compound that increases blood flow,” Forbes says. “Beans, citrus fruits, beets, celery, cruciferous vegetables and leafy greens boost nitric oxide or its bioavailability to improve blood flow. While getting nutrition from food is ideal, supplements such as zinc, magnesium, vitamin D and boron can help regulate sex hormones. Avoid certain medications, including over-the-counter medicine such as NSAIDs [non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs] like Advil, acid blockers and even mouthwash, which blocks nitric oxide.”

Forbes also recommends engaging in high-intensity exercises and weight resistance that help increase testosterone and blood flow to the penis. Reducing environmental toxins is another important step, she notes, as plastics, pesticides and other chemicals can rob men of their testosterone, which not only affects blood flow but

also libido.

Forbes cautions that while erectile dysfunction drugs work in the short-term, they can produce unwanted consequences. “Viagra does work to help men achieve an erection by stimulating blood flow to the penis. However, it can cause troublesome side effects including headaches, vision problems and nasal congestion. Non-pharmaceutical alternatives can provide good results without undesirable repercussions. Low-intensity shock wave therapy, a non-invasive outpatient procedure, uses targeted sound waves to improve blood flow to the penis and can be done once or in a series of treatments. Platelet-rich plasma injections use the patient’s own plasma to stimulate new tissue growth in the penis, which can lead to larger and more frequent erections,” she explains.

Forbes says that by having an open dialogue with their medical professionals and exploring holistic treatments, men at any age can feel sexier and more energetic than ever. “Talk about your concerns with your doctor, who may offer referrals to other specialists until the issue is solved. A physical therapist can teach men to strengthen their pelvic floor with Kegels and other exercises. Sexual therapists help men work through mental and psychological issues, which can be as debilitating as physical ones. A psychologist can offer tools for managing depression and anxiety, both of which can contribute to sexual dysfunction, including low libido and performance anxiety,” she says, noting that if a man does not feel comfortable talking with their doctor, it may be time to find a new one.

Many factors contribute to sexual health, and every man’s needs and desires are different. By addressing physical, hormonal, neurological and mental wellness with a combination of conventional and holistic treatments, men can experience sexual performance and enjoyment at any age. “There’s more awareness than ever before about sexual health, and men don’t have to compromise this integral part of their overall wellness,” says Forbes.

Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine. Connect at Carrie JacksonWrites.com.

Converting Food to Energy

LEARNING HOW METABOLISM WORKS

by Linda Sechrist

Metabolism is the process by which the foods and drinks we consume are converted into energy. We may not notice the cellular mechanisms that transform fat and glucose into the oomph in our step, but when they start to wane, we definitely know something is wrong. We may feel lethargic and weak, our brains may get foggy or we may start putting on weight around the belly, with blood pressure, blood glucose and triglyceride levels on the rise. In most cases, modifying our diet is the most powerful way to regain vitality and get those biomarkers back on track.

“Metabolic imbalance occurs when the body stores fat but can’t access it or burn it as efficiently,” says Alan Christianson, a naturopathic physician and author of The Metabolism Reset Diet: Repair Your Liver, Stop Storing Fat and Lose Weight Naturally. “In one year, our bodies manage about 1 million calories in and out. We never get exactly what we need on any day, so we must be able to store and release energy in a healthy fashion. However, people get better at storing and poorer at releasing. This is a big part of gradual weight gain and accompanying fatigue.”

Christianson describes good metabolic health as having steady energy levels and maintaining a good body weight. “When there’s too little energy available and the body can’t make energy that well, I see symptoms of metabolic imbalance as mental fatigue and poor memory, less muscular endurance, less recovery from exercise, weight gain and resistance to weight loss,” he explains. “If not addressed, metabolic imbalance can develop into obesity, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, insulin resistance, diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.”

According to Christianson, certain lifestyle choices can throw our metabolism out of balance, including the overconsumption of carbohydrates, processed foods and caffeine; frequent snacking and late-night meals; and poor sleep routines. Too much stress creates a hormonal cascade that promotes storing fat instead of using it.

James Forleo, a doctor of chiropractic and author of Health Is Simple, Disease Is Complicated, recommends the elimination of certain foods that wreak havoc on our metabolism: “The inflammatory agents in much of the food consumed in the Standard American Diet—high-glycemic refined carbohydrates, high-fructose corn syrup and other sugars, and hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated fats—are the biggest offenders of metabolic health.”

Correcting Liver Function

“The key mechanism to correct and maintain metabolic health is helping the liver to function well. Once corrected, it is not difficult to maintain metabolic health if people eat reasonably healthy,” Christianson advises. “The liver is the main site for storing the body’s fuel. It does this in the forms of glycogen and triglycerides. When things go wrong, there’s too much of one relative to the other. We need some glycogen, which comes from carbohydrates, to burn triglycerides—kind of like how you need kindling to burn a log. The problem is triglyceride buildup in the liver.”

Fixing the liver is the central focus of Christianson’s 28-day metabolism reset. “To correct a fatty liver, you need adequate protein and adequate nutrients, but a low enough amount of total carbohydrates and healthy fats,” he says. “You also need adequate levels of glucose, a simple carbohydrate that we get from the food we eat. My metabolism reset guides you in eating less refined and processed foods, and more real, nutritious food; pairing carbohydrates with protein; exercising; managing stress levels; and avoiding sugar.”

Personalized Diet Plan and Nutritional Coaching

Metabolic Balance, a German-based company with certified nutrition coaches around the globe, helps people optimize their health with personalized diet plans and follow-up coaching sessions. “The program was created by Dr. Wolf Funfack, a specialist in internal and nutritional medicine, whose research revealed that every human body can produce all the hormones and enzymes it needs for healthy metabolism. We need to give it the necessary nutrients with the right food, which is precisely what Metabolic Balance does,” says Sylvia Egel, CEO and director of coaching and education

“Based on an individual’s personal medical history and blood levels, we determine what substances the body lacks to produce all the enzymes and hormones necessary for their bodily functions,” she explains. “The personal roadmap recommends the right combination of foods to keep the various bodily functions in balance. The foods aren’t based on their caloric content, but rather on their essential components such as vitamins, minerals and trace elements, and the relationship between carbohydrates, fats and proteins.”

According to a 2010 study published in the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, participation in the Metabolic Balance program led to long-term health improvements due to a high degree of adherence by the participants. According to the researchers, “The emphasis of any dietary program should be set on both the aspect of nutrition as well as the aspect of motivation.”

Linda Sechrist has been a contributing writer to Natural Awakenings publications for 20 years.

NEM LUI HUE (LEMONGRASS SKEWERS WITH PORK OR CHICKEN)

YIELD: 2 SERVINGS

1 lb ground pork or chicken

1 Tbsp finely minced garlic

1 Tbsp finely minced shallot

½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

12-15 stalks of lemongrass

Salt to taste

Combine all ingredients, except the lemongrass stalks, in a bowl and mix with hands or a fork. Cover and place the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or overnight), allowing the flavors to develop.

Peel the outer layer of the lemongrass stalks. Rinse in water and dry. Take one handful of the ground mixture and wrap it around the end of a lemongrass stalk, gently pressing and molding the meat around the stalk. Repeat with the remaining meat and place on a baking sheet. Grill skewers over coals or on a gas grill for about 6 to 10 minutes until cooked through. Make sure to rub the grill with a paper towel soaked in vegetable oil to ensure the skewers don’t stick to the grate.

CHICKEN CURRY

YIELD: 1 SERVING

1 cup vegetables (mushrooms, leeks, onion or cauliflower), chopped

1 chicken breast, diced

1 tsp turmeric

1 tsp mild or medium curry powder

1 tsp garam masala

½ tsp ground cumin

½ tsp ground ginger

1 garlic clove

Vegetable stock

If using cauliflower, parboil the florets and keep the water they were boiled in. Heat the spices in a dry pan until fragrant. Add garlic and vegetables and coat with spices. Add some oil and pour in some vegetable stock (or the cauliflower water) to deglaze the pan. Cook covered for a few minutes until spices and liquid are well combined and the vegetables are coated evenly. Add the diced chicken. Simmer until the chicken is cooked, stirring regularly. Add more vegetable stock or water for a thinner sauce. Serve with some toasted rye bread to soak up the juices.

Recipes and photos courtesy of Metabolic Balance

ARUGULA SALAD WITH MANGO DRESSING

YIELD: 1 SERVING

1½ cup arugula

¼ cup olives, pitted

1 Tbsp chopped shallots

1 mango

Balsamic vinegar

Salt and pepper to taste

Peel the mango, remove the flesh from the core and cut into small cubes. Purée the olives with balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper. Purée some of the mango cubes with the dressing and set aside the remainder. Add the shallots to the dressing. Wash, clean and dry the arugula. Mix in the dressing and sprinkle the remaining mango cubes on top. Pair this salad with any protein, such as a fish filet.

Straighten Up and Feel Right

TIPS FOR GOOD POSTURE AND A HEALTHY SPINE

by Cristina Parker, PT, DPT

Standing up straight is not just something our parents remind us to do, it also happens to be good for our health. Posture describes the position of the body in space, but the realities of how we stand and move in day-to-day life are much more complex. Healthy postures encourage proper alignment of body structures, while unhealthy postures can lead to a host of issues, including muscle and joint pain, balance impairment and decreased mobility. Awareness of the body’s proper static and dynamic position is essential to maintaining a healthy spine.

The Spine and Its Role in Posture

The body’s main support system is the spine, which consists of three sections. The cervical spine supports the weight of the head and connects it to the shoulders, enabling us to turn our heads from side to side as well as up and down. The thoracic spine stabilizes the rib cage, which protects the vital organs. The lumbar spine consists of thicker, more robust vertebrae, as they are the main load bearers and enable us to rotate our bodies and bend forward and to the side.

Muscle tightness or joint immobility can shift the spine out of its ideal positioning, causing postural dysfunction. A recent study published in the journal Physical Therapy Rehabilitation Science estimates that 66 percent of the population is living with forward head posture (FHP), a cervical spine dysfunction that occurs when the head moves forward in front of the body. FHP can lead to headaches, migraines and jaw pain. Thoracic kyphosis, a rounded upper back, reportedly impacts 20 to 50 percent of the population and impairs numerous functions, including digestion and breathing. The lumbar spine is at particularly high risk for joint disease as both lumbar muscle strength and pelvic mobility decrease in sedentary individuals. Low back and pelvic immobility are contributing factors for the estimated 103 million individuals worldwide that live with lumbar spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal that may cause pain or numbness in the legs.

Three-Step Process to Take Control of Our Posture

STEP ONE: IDENTIFICATION

In her book Rethink Your Position, biomechanist Katy Bowman

recommends that we pay attention to a few common signals the body sends out to alert us to an imbalanced weight distribution, including aches in the feet or low back and tension of the shoulders or neck. “Good alignment isn’t about any one fixed position, but a healthy range of positions,” she says. “By focusing less on memorizing postures and more on learning about load on parts of the body, you can optimize your positioning for many different activities.”

Bowman recommends a quick and easy way to self-assess if a postural imbalance is present and, if so, to identify where the imbalance begins: “The body’s joints stack in a vertical line. You can use a plumb line to indicate where your parts are supposed to be. If you take a string with a weight at the end and drop it down from your shoulder, it should line up with the hip, knee and ankle on the way down.”

STEP TWO: CORRECTION

Dr. Krista Burns, co-author of The Posture Principles and founder of the American Posture Institute, recommends a two-minute exercise routine, performed while standing against a wall, that addresses each segment of the spine. Repeat each exercise five times.

1. Neck retraction: Push the head forward away from the wall as far as possible, then pull it back so the base of the skull contacts the wall. Keep the eyes parallel to the horizon, rather than looking up toward the sky.

2. Posture angel: Stand with the back against the wall, elbows bent and tucked in close to the waist. Keeping the back of the hands against the wall, reach up as far as possible then slowly lower back to starting position. This movement, which is like making a snow angel while standing, should be felt between the shoulder blades when performed correctly.

3. Pelvic tilt: Arch the back so there is a small space between the wall and the lower spine, then tuck in the tail, flattening the spine against the wall and closing that space. This exercise helps initiate movement into the lower joints.

STEP THREE: MAINTENANCE

The key to maintaining a healthy posture is frequent movement, which can include an hourly stretch break or a bi-hourly range-ofmotion routine to move muscles and joints throughout the day. To make postural exercises a habit, physical therapist and integrative health coach Margie Bissinger recommends pairing an exercise routine with something that is already done multiple times a day–for example, mealtime. “People are busy, so it is hard to always dedicate that mental space to awareness of their head or back position,” she states. “When they pair it with something they’re routinely doing, it becomes a habit, and that is when the mental load of the task starts to go away.”

Cristina Parker holds a doctorate in physical therapy. She is a researcher, health content writer, educator and clinician specializing in neurologic disorders, limb-loss rehabilitation and adaptive sports techniques.

Socially Conscious Investing

HOW TO CHOOSE SUSTAINABLE

STOCKS

AND MUTUAL FUNDS

by Sheila Julson

“Vote with your pocketbook,” the saying goes, prompting consumers to buy parkas from planet-friendly Patagonia or socks by Bombas, which donates a pair to homeless shelters for every pair purchased. When choosing stocks and mutual funds, a growing number of investors don’t just want to get a good return on their investment, they also seek to support corporations that spread kindness, protect (or do not pollute) the environment and support women, minorities and LGBTQ+ people.

This year, the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations (NASDAQ) reported that environmental, social and corporate governance investing “represents more than $8 trillion in assets under management in the U.S. alone, and people expect the worldwide number to

surpass $50 trillion by the end of 2025.” These types of mutual funds can yield returns akin to conventional funds, says Michael Young, director of education and outreach for the U.S. Forum for Sustainable and Responsible Investment (US SIF), a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit.

Some industries, such as oil and gas, may be more eco-challenged than others, but companies can and should make best efforts relevant to their industries, he says, suggesting that investors review a company’s corporate social responsibility report, which provides insight into their environmental and social practices.

Young recommends that new investors start by determining which social and environmental issues matter most to them. From there, tools such as the free US SIF sustainable investing course (ussif. org/courses_individualinvestors) offer an overview of sustainable investing, as well as investment options and strategies. He also encourages a visit to As You Sow (AsYouSow.org/invest-your-values) to help investors find the companies and mutual funds that align with their social and environmental principles, and to steer clear of those that don’t.

“Most people invest in companies through fund structures via retirement plans or online brokerages,” Young explains. “Through As You Sow, they have search tools that help interested investors determine if they own funds that include companies in fossil fuels, weapons manufacturing or other industries one might not want to invest in.”

Robin Diedrich, the director of sustainable investing for Edward Jones, asserts that their division arose over the past few years as a result of client demand. The analysts in her division evaluate whether the stated sustainability and financial objectives of a fund are actually being met, using vetting tools like Morningstar (Morningstar. com/topics/sustainable-investing). “Morningstar has become much more rigid in their methodology. They’re trying to make sure that what’s being labeled as sustainable is truly that,” she says.

Diedrich advises investors to use the same criteria that they would use with any fund, whether traditional or sustainable. “It’s important that you look at a sustainable fund in that same way, because it is an investment with your money,” she says. “Ultimately, it needs to be driven by clients’ personal choices, as well as their financial goals.”

Sustainable Investing Goes Mainstream

Green Century Funds (GreenCentury.com) is a mutual funds company that engages corporations on behalf of its sharehold ers to seek specific outcomes. Young says Green Century Funds’ efforts worked with companies like Starbucks, Conagra Foods and Hormel Foods to eliminate deforesta tion from their supply chains. “There are ways to leverage your dollar to make an impact, because as an individual, you likely couldn’t convince a large corporation to do that,” Young notes.

Ceres, a nonprofit headquartered in Bos ton, works with investors, companies and capital market influencers to drive action on sustainability issues. It is the co-found er of numerous sustainability enterpris es, including Net Zero Asset Managers, a global initiative through which large institutional investors have committed to support net zero greenhouse gas emissions across the economy by 2050 and interim emissions reductions by 2030. Similarly, many pension funds are signatories to the Paris Aligned Asset Owners, meaning that they also support net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Because of the sheer volume of their trades, institutional investors and pen sion fund managers have a great deal of clout and are able to influence corporate leaders to take environmental stewardship seriously. Their commitment to net zero greenhouse gas emissions means that corporations are pressed hard by these investors to eliminate emissions by the stated deadlines.

“As the climate crisis has worsened over the years with extreme weather disas ters causing multi-billion-dollar losses, disrupting supply chains and affecting cor porate business operations, investors have increasingly recognized climate change as a financial risk. Most institutional inves tors now analyze climate-related financial risks and opportunities and incorporate those risks and related sustainability risks into their decision making,” says Kirsten Snow Spalding, vice president of the Ceres Investor Network.

Sheila Julson is a freelance writer and fre quent contributor to Natural Awakenings

Dr. Mark Hyman

ON LIVING HEALTHY TO 100 AND BEYOND

by Sandra Yeyati

Mark Hyman is a practicing family physician and an internationally recognized leader, bestselling author, speaker, educator and advocate in the field of functional medicine. He is the founder and director of The UltraWellness Center, founder and senior advisor for the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine and board president for clinical affairs for The Institute for Functional Medicine. He is also the founder and chairman of the Food Fix Campaign, dedicated to transforming our food and agriculture system through policy change, and hosts The Doctor’s Farmacy, a podcast with more than 150 million downloads. Hyman is a regular contributor to CBS This Morning, Today, Good Morning America, The View, Fox and CNN. His latest book, Young Forever: The Secrets to Living Your Longest, Healthiest Life, champions the latest science on healthy aging.

How is the emerging science on longevity changing the way we view aging?

Many things we’ve come to accept as a normal part of getting older are not. Decrepitude, frailty, disease, diabetes, cancers, dementia—these are optional. We can’t change chronological aging, but we can slow and reverse biological aging by influencing the hallmarks of aging, which are these underlying processes that go awry as we get older.

What are the hallmarks of aging?

In my book I wrote about 10 hallmarks of aging, which are all part of one ecosystem of problems. They’re not separate; they influence each other; and they’re dynamic. It’s things like inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, DNA damage, zombie cells, shortened telomeres, microbiome changes and epigenetic changes, which are changes in how our genes are expressed. They’re all important, but the most important hallmark of aging is called deregulated nutrient sensing, which means how our body interacts with food and how

that influences us for good or bad. Problems with nutrient sensing affect almost all the other hallmarks and make them worse.

How can we address deregulated nutrient sensing?

We have built-in longevity pathways and over 3,000 survival genes, and we can activate this innate healing intelligence at any time. A major way to influence four of these pathways is through food. I call them longevity switches, which we need to learn how to regulate to make our health span equal our lifespan.

The first one is activated by too much

Photo by Masha Maltsava

sugar and starch, which drives too much insulin signaling, causing diabetes, pre-diabetes, cancer, dementia, heart disease or obesity. When insulin is over-expressed, it causes weight gain, fat storage, inflammation and lots of other problems.

The next one is mTOR [mammalian target of rapamycin], a pathway that makes new proteins and builds muscle, but gets overstimulated because of our constant eating and snacking and eating before bed. mTOR needs to be inhibited periodically by intermittent fasting or time-restricted eating to allow autophagy to happen, which is like a recycling and repair crew that comes in at night and cleans up all the damaged proteins.

The other two pathways, sirtuins and AMPK [adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase], sense a lack of nutrients and switch on survival pathways. If we’re constantly eating sugar and starch, then AMPK and sirtuins are overstimulated, and they’re not given a break to activate these pathways.

What is the role of exercise in longevity?

If it were a pill, exercise would basically fix everything. It’s probably the most potent intervention there is, other than calorie restriction or fasting, and it works on many of the longevity pathways. The most important type of exercise is resistance training as you get older, because you need to build muscle. Without muscle, you become frail and dysfunctional.

Exercise influences our DNA stability; lengthens telomeres; preserves the genome; affects the proteins; regulates mTOR, AMPK and sirtuins; preserves mitochondrial function; prevents zombie cells; helps with stem cells; reduces inflammation, cardiovascular risk and diabetes; and it’s also really important for becoming insulin sensitive.

What is hormesis and how can it help with healthy aging?

Hormesis is the idea that what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. The concept is not new. We know that exercise, for example, is

a stress on the body, but it actually makes you rebound stronger. When you lift weights or you run, it’s a stress, but you’re getting thinner and stronger. There are other forms of hormesis that activate longevity pathways. Hot sauna therapy reduces your risk of cardiovascular mortality by 50 percent. Cold immersion therapy has many benefits, like increasing dopamine, activating brown fat and regulating metabolism. Fasting is a kind of hormesis, and longer fasts—for a day, three days, a week—are very powerful.

What role does finding community have in this quest for longevity?

The science is pretty clear that the body has innate systems that can be regulated by our thoughts. We now understand the mechanisms by which our social relationships and connections can influence our gene expression and everything from inflammation to insulin resistance to everything else, so building connection with others and

building relationships and community is very important.

What longevity strategies do you implement on a typical day?

A lot of this is just habit development and routine. This morning I worked out with my resistance bands for half an hour, took a steam shower and an ice bath, then had a longevity shake with goat whey, creatine, urolithin A and adaptogenic mushrooms. Then I took a walking meeting for an hourand-a-half outside while I was on a call. Tonight, I plan to spend time with friends. I eat pretty simply most of the time. Last night, I had lamb chops, sweet potatoes, shiitake mushrooms, artichokes (which are a great prebiotic food) and some broccoli with lemon, garlic and olive oil. I take my supplements as well. So it’s very simple, very easy.

Sandra Yeyati is the national editor of Natural Awakenings

Keeping Eyes Sharp A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO VISION HEALTH

by Carrie Jackson

As the windows to the world, our eyes are sensory organs that work overtime. They allow us to take in light, see what is before us and send information for the brain to process. While regular eye exams are important, preventative and proactive maintenance is key to achieving healthy vision.

Dr. Marc Grossman co-founded NaturalEyeCare.com to educate professionals and the public about complementary eye care, which can supplement traditional methods. As both a licensed optometrist and acupuncturist, he believes that the health of the eye depends on the well-being of a person’s entire body. “I treat the person behind the eye, not just the condition. When a patient comes in with glaucoma or a cataract, I look at their history and lifestyle choices to see what could be contributing to it,” he says.

Proper nutrition is crucial for proper eye function. Grossman recommends what he calls a “vision diet” based on the Mediterranean diet, which cuts down on sugar and prioritizes organic,

low-alkaline foods, leafy greens and fresh juices. “Carotenoids, found in red or yellow fruits and vegetables, are vital antioxidants for eye health. They include lutein, the yellow pigment in the macula that protects against certain eye diseases, and zeaxanthin, which helps avoid macular degeneration. These nutrients also absorb harmful blue light and are anti-inflammatory. The presence of free radicals and lack of antioxidants in the eyes is directly related to the incidence of many types of eye disease, including macular degeneration. Consuming antioxidants from food is ideal and can be enhanced with supplements such as CoQ10, omega-3 fatty acids, selenium and curcumin,” Grossman explains.

“Regular aerobic activity combined with meditation or another mindfulness practice is ideal to maintain and even improve vision,” he says. “Thirty minutes of brisk walking or another activity you enjoy four days a week can reduce the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration and other common eye conditions. Qigong,

mindful breathing and yoga help the whole body reset and are low-impact ways to improve circulation.”

Proactively retraining the brain can substantially reduce vision dysfunction. Dr. Bryce Appelbaum, a pioneer in neuro-optometry, helps adults and children unlock their highest potential by remediating visual developmental delays that impact reading and learning, honing visual skills to elevate sports performance and reorganizing the “visual brain” after head injuries.

“We need to look at eyesight and vision as separate entities. While eyesight is the ability to simply see things like letters on a chart, vision is how your brain derives meaning from the world around us and directs the appropriate action,” explains the Maryland-based optometrist.

Through individualized vision therapy, Appelbaum’s patients learn how to train their eyes, brain and body to work together more efficiently. “Most functional vision problems are actually brain problems, and vision therapy teaches you how to use your eyes to retrain your brain. Through a series of exercises, we enhance skills like focus, depth perception, 3D awareness, eye movement control and visualization,” he explains. The first step is a thorough evaluation, and then, if indicated, personalized treatment is prescribed with doctor-supervised sessions in the office that are reinforced with exercises at home.

Appelbaum also helps professional and amateur athletes more accurately connect to their sport through vision. “From an early age we’re told to ‘keep your eye on the ball,’ but not taught how to do that,” Appelbaum asserts. “Sports vision therapy trains athletes to optimize critical components in their visual processing and reaction. We work with baseball and basketball players, gymnasts, skiers, even fencers who learn to coordinate and visualize the optimal movement in relation to their environment, equipment and teammates. With repeated exercises and self-correction, athletes learn to enhance visual reaction time, depth perception, visuospatial knowledge and hand-eye coordination."

Monitoring screen time is vital to resting overworked eyes. “As a direct result of excessive screen time, we’re seeing a dramatic increase of nearsightedness in young children, as well as headaches, fatigue, eyestrain and motion sensitivity,” Appelbaum says. “I encourage patients to follow the 20/20/20 rule and take a minimum of a 20-second break every 20 minutes to look at something at least 20 feet away. This allows both the brain and eyes to disengage from the near visual stress and relax. In general, looking at larger screens that are further away will also lessen the strain.”

Taking a holistic approach to overall health and wellness will not only preserve but can also enhance our ability to see. “People should discuss visual issues and symptoms with their doctor and seek out functional vision testing, as vision could be the limiting factor in a number of conditions,” Appelbaum advises. “With mindful visual training and healthy lifestyle choices, we can maximize our vision and our life’s potential.”

Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine. Connect at Carrie JacksonWrites.com.

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Leaps and Bounds KEEPING CANINE JUMPERS INJURY-FREE

by Karen Shaw Becker, DVM

Dogs are natural athletes that leap on and off things multiple times a day, usually without incident. That’s why many people don’t realize that, like humans, dogs can sustain injuries, including soft tissue trauma, such as cuts and bruises; back injuries or slipped vertebral discs; sprains; and broken legs.

Preventing Mishaps in a Jumper

Most active dogs that frolic outdoors will get the occasional scrape, cut or bruise. These common (usually minor) injuries can be prevented by ensuring that the areas they frequent are safe, contained and hazard-free. Broken legs, on the other

hand, are more serious and typically do not result from normal, or even vigorous, high-intensity exercise. Bone fractures are generally caused by a sudden impact or great force to the body, such as being hit by a car or falling a long distance. They are most often seen in older pets and excitable risk-takers. The best way to prevent a dog from breaking a leg is to make sure it is under control at all times, especially outdoors.

Getting Dogs in Shape to Avoid Injuries

Back injuries, slipped discs and sprains, including canine cruciate ligament injuries, often occur in poorly conditioned dogs. For

example, if a pup has been indoors most of the winter, its muscles have lost tone and atrophied. This also applies to “weekend warriors” that exercise and play at high intensity with their owners only on Saturdays and Sundays. Studies show that well-conditioned muscles can begin to lose their tone and strength in a matter of days. This can set the stage for an injury if the activity level suddenly jumps significantly, so start by gradually improving a dog’s fitness level. The minimum amount of exercise needed to maintain muscle tone is 20 minutes three times weekly, and as pets age, this amount increases. Aim for 40 minutes of rigorous walking or running every day. Consistency is essential for a dog’s muscles and ligaments to stay strong and resilient. This will keep the dog fit and better able to avoid strains, sprains and other injuries. Warming up before exercise is very important. Walk and encourage the dog to stretch its limbs before engaging in more intense exercise, especially with aging dogs.

Avoiding Cervical Disc and Neck Injuries

Cervical disc and neck injuries are often the result of collar strain. Dogs should be trained to walk beside their handler and heel on the leash. However, even the most well-trained dog will occasionally jump forward suddenly, causing the collar to pull tightly against their neck.

As dogs leap forward in excitement, they pull all the slack out of the leash and apply a great deal of pressure from the collar to their neck and cervical area, potentially resulting in an injury to the cervical disc or other neck problems. Symptoms can include a hesitance to move or lower the neck to eat or drink, and crying outbursts when the head or neck area are touched. Occasionally there can also be lameness in a front leg with this type of injury.

For dogs that habitually pull and whose leash behavior isn’t able to be improved, a harness, Gentle Leader-type head collar or other similar equipment can help distribute the dog’s body weight evenly across the restraint and alleviate the pressure on their neck.

Maintaining an Exercise Regimen

If a dog’s leg muscles aren’t toned, if its tendons and ligaments aren’t stretched and strong, and if its core muscles haven’t been worked and can’t do a good job holding the frame solidly in place, then a sudden burst of activity, even at home, can lead to injuries.

Depending on the geographical location, it is much easier to keep a dog fit during spring and summer months, but the goal should be to keep them exercised year-round. If harsh winters discourage outdoor activities, consider visiting an indoor dog park; exposing them to hydrotherapy or a warm-water dog pool; enrolling them in indoor agility, track training or nose work (a growing sport that encourages dogs to follow their natural hunting instincts); or taking them out on a cross-country skiing adventure.

Veterinarian Karen Shaw Becker has spent her career empowering animal guardians to make knowledgeable decisions to extend the life and well-being of their animals. To learn more, visit DrKarenBecker.com.

calendar of events

To place a calendar/ongoing/classified event, email content to ColaPublisher@NaturalAwakenings.com. Entries must adhere to our guidelines and be submitted by June 12 (for July issue). Costs $20 for 35 words each month. Call ahead before attending events to avoid any cancellations or changes.

Dowdy Rudolph Chiropractic–We are open and spacing appointments consciously. We are sanitizing our office and waiting areas throughout the day and wearing personal protective gear. Call 803-376-6293 to schedule an appointment.

FRIDAY, JUNE 2

First Fridays with SC Artists–The Hideout in WeCo, 118 State St, W Columbia. Info/time/cost: 803-881-1044, HideoutInWeco.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 4

Pop Up Cat Cafe–With Cat Around Town. The Hideout in WeCo, 118 State St, W Columbia. Info/ time/cost: 803-881-1044, HideoutInWeco.com.

THURSDAY, JUNE 8

Healthy Cooking Class–10:30am-noon. Every other Thursday. Learn to make and enjoy the healthier versions of the foods we love. Free; must preregister. Hyatt Park Recreation Center, 950 Jackson Ave, Columbia. Info/register: Contact Ms. Tracy at 833-678-7229 or OriginalOriginshw@gmail.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 10

Drag Bingo–With Onya Nerves. The Hideout in WeCo, 118 State St, W Columbia. Info/time/cost: 803-881-1044, HideoutInWeco.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 11

Community Wellness Discussion–2:30-4:30pm. Message to the Masses: Sugar, the Socially Accepted Addiction. Lunch provided. Free; must preregister. Richland Library-Sandhills, 763 Fashion Dr, Columbia. Info/register: Contact Ms. Tracy at 833-678-7229 or OriginalOriginshw@gmail.com.

Glee Drag Show–With Kings & Things. Tickets on sale at Enventbrite.com. The Hideout in WeCo, 118 State St, W Columbia. Info/time/cost: 803-8811044, HideoutInWeco.com.

FRIDAY, JUNE 16

Plant Medicine 101–6-8pm. Learn how plants can help the body stay healthy with Amber Addy, CHHP, from 1 with Nature Therapies. Palmetto Healing Arts, 1127 B Ave, W Columbia. Info/cost/tickets: Palmetto Healing Arts Facebook page.

THURSDAY, JUNE 22

Healthy Cooking Class–10:30am-noon. Every other Thursday. Learn to make and enjoy the healthier versions of the foods we love. Free; must preregister. Hyatt Park Recreation Center, 950 Jackson Ave, Columbia. Info/register: Contact Ms. Tracy at 833-678-7229 or OriginalOriginshw@gmail.com.

FRIDAY, JUNE 23

Pride Month Trivia–The Hideout in WeCo, 118 State St, W Columbia. Info/time/cost: 803-8811044, HideoutInWeco.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 24

Foot Savi Fashion Show–3:30pm. Door prizes, drawings and unique product giveaways. A makeover will also be given away. Free. If you would like to participate as a model for vendors’ makeup, shoes, clothing, contact Zoe Owen at 803-479-7859. Foot Savi, 7001 St Andrews Rd, Ste 16, Columbia. Info: Call Owen at 803-479-7859.

plan ahead

FRIDAY-SUNDAY, JULY 7-9

Sound Healer Training–Featuring Dr. Falami Devoe. Learn how to hold space for others through sound, as well as the foundations and business of sound healing. Cost: $200 deposit; $754 total. FemmeX, 1501 Richland St, Columbia. Info/times/ register: Call Malai Roper at 803-814-4001 or visit DrFalami.com.

ongoing events

sunday

Eckankar–10-11am. Second Sundays. The Path of Spiritual Freedom is an active, creative, spiritual practice. Join us and share your insights as we explore various spiritual topics. Seven Oaks, 200 Leisure Ln, Columbia. Info/cost: Call Dee at 803749-2459 or visit ECK-SC.org.

Soundy School –10:30am. Every Sunday. Celebration through meditation, sound healing and more. Free. Held next to Jubilee! Circle, 6729 Two Notch Rd, Ste 80, Columbia. Info: Email Info@ JubileeCircle.com.

Unity of Columbia–11am. Every Sunday. A vibrant, spiritual meditation community. Free. Unity of Columbia, 1801 Legrand Rd. Info: UnityOfTheMidlands@gmail.com, UnityOfTheMidlands.org.

A Course in Miracles–Original Edition (ACIMOE)–4:30-6pm. Every Sunday. Study group via Zoom/phone. ACIM-OE is unedited and available as a free phone app. Donations are accepted. Watch introduction on YouTube with Rev. Joy Lee Connor, LMT. Info: Contact Connor at 803-447-6499 or JoyLeeConnor@BellSouth.net.

Virtual Healthy Living Support Group–7pm. Every first and third Sunday. Virtual support group via Zoom. Uplift, support and encourage one another while making necessary changes for better health and wellness. Donations accepted. Info/register: Contact Ms. Tracy at 833-678-7229 or OriginalOriginshw@gmail.com.

tuesday

Grocery Store Walkthrough–Every Tuesday. It can be difficult to navigate which food choices are the best and healthiest for you and your family. Learn how to choose healthy food options and how to read and understand food labels with Kristen Turpen, of Radiant Holistic Healing. Info/times/to schedule your walkthrough: Contact Turpen at 839-207-0057 or RadiantHolisticHealing@hotmail.com.

wednesday

Grocery Store Walkthrough–Every Wednesday. It can be difficult to navigate which food choices are the best and healthiest for you and your family. Learn how to choose healthy food options and how to read and understand food labels with Kristen Turpen, of Radiant Holistic Healing. Info/times/to schedule your walkthrough: Contact Turpen at 839207-0057 or RadiantHolisticHealing@hotmail.com. A Course in Miracles Discussion Group–7:30pm. Every Wednesday. Lee McEachern leads this discussion. Free. Jubilee! Circle, 6729 Two Notch Rd, Ste 70, Columbia. Info: Email Info@JubileeCircle.com. Ask the Gardener “Happy Hour”–4-6pm. First and third Wednesdays. Bring your plants, pictures and questions! Have one-on-one conversations regarding the science behind your specific needs and issues. Gardener’s Outpost, 1211 Franklin St, Columbia. Info: 803-851-1905, GardenersOutpost.com.

thursday

Garden Asana –8:15-9:15am. First and fourth Thursdays. Hosted by Mitchell Hughes, of Grass Roots Yoga. Cost: $15. RSVP by paying online via Venmo-MitchellCHughes. Gardener’s Outpost, 1211 Franklin St, Columbia. Info: 803-851-1905, GardenersOutpost.com.

A successful man is one who can lay a firm foundation with the bricks others have thrown at him.

~David Brinkley

Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Natural Directory, call 803-309-2101 or email ColaPublisher@NaturalAwakenings.com.

ACUPUNCTURE

THE ACUPUNCTURE CLINIC

William D. Skelton, DAc

620 Sims Ave, Columbia 803-256-1000 • SCAcupuncture.com

Bill Skelton is dedicated to helping people live happier, healthier, active lives with safe, gentle and effective techniques. He has 38 years’ experience and trained in the Republic of China. Call to schedule an appointment. See ad, page 29.

AESTHETICS

EXPECT CLARITY AESTHETICS

Angie Jewell

120 Kaminer Way Pkwy, Ste G, Columbia 803-348-8962

Our carefully crafted and customized holistic care plans include Environ skin care products, which utilize science to deliver real skin benefits, paired with treatment room modalities, such as PBM, LFS, RF, microcurrent, facial/ear reflexology, facial sculpting massage, and gua sha, to help our clients reach their skin goals. Consistent and positive results include luminous, smooth, taut skin with even skin pigmentation. It’s time to expect clarity!

AROMATHERAPY

EYE LOVE ME

Jenycez Woodard

EyeLoveMe9@gmail.com

EyeLoveMe.BigCartel.com

Eye Love Me is a brand that caters to the mind, body and spirit/soul. Our products simply assist with bringing one closer to their higher selves while educating and/or giving insight on the importance of self-love. We aspire to aid in healing internally and externally, so that when we elevate in frequency we have a superior "innerstanding" on how to restore ourselves in its entirety. It starts with you. We desire everyone to recognize and acknowledge their own individual purpose, so that they open themselves to receive ALL that brings light into their realities.

GARNER’S NATURAL LIFE

4840 Forest Dr, Ste 15-A, Columbia Trenholm Plaza, in Forest Acres

803-454-7700 • GarnersNaturalLife.com

Improve your level of stress, depression and mood with natural products from a locally owned family business. Our knowledgeable staff will guide you using aromatherapy for pain, anxiety, energy enhancement and more. We carry several brands of essential oils, including doTERRA. See ads, page 2 and back page.

CHIROPRACTIC CHIROPRACTIC WELLNESS CENTER INC

Dr. Shelly Jones, DC 5209 Forest Dr, Ste C, Columbia 803-771-9990 • DrShellyJones.com

Webster Technique certified, Dr. Jones provides family chiropractic care, health information and wellness resources to support the body’s natural ability to heal, allowing one to feel better and enjoy living a more active lifestyle! Call to schedule your appointment or discuss bringing our onsite chiropractic care and health-education services to your business, school or athletic team.

DOWDY RUDOLPH CHIROPRACTIC LLC

Dr. Dowdy Rudolph, DC 1444 Barnwell St, Columbia 803-376-6293 • DowdyRudolphChiro.com

Dr. Gerald Rudolph, DC, focuses on finding the root cause of your problems and not just treating your pain. He utilizes digital X-rays to help diagnose problems, spinal adjustments to stimulate proper movement of spinal and extremity joints, active therapeutic movement exercises to correct movement disorders, and spinal decompression to help relieve numbness and tingling down your arms and legs. Dowdy Rudolph Chiropractic also offers a state-of-the-art full-body lounge hydromassage table that can help you feel more rejuvenated and relaxed. See ad, page 10.

COLON HEALTH SPRING RAIN HYDROTHERAPY

Linda Salyer

120 Kaminer Way Pkwy, Ste H, Columbia 803-361-2620 • LSalyer@ymail.com

All disease begins in the colon. Constipation; slow, sluggish bowel; gas and bloating? A colonic will help to rid you of these problems. Colonics promote good digestion, help speed metabolism, help lower cholesterol, and help relieve joint pain. Linda Salyer is IACN certified and a retired nurse. Saturday appointments available with an additional small convenience fee. See ad, page 22.

FOOT CARE

FOOT SAVI

7001 St Andrews Rd, Ste A

Certified Board Pedorthist and Brace Specialist

803-781-1269 • FootSavi.com

With more than 30-plus years in the footcare/footwear industry, Sion Owen helps with a variety of issues, including gait analysis, foot assessments, custom orthotics, bracing and compression therapy, plantar fascia pain, neuropathy and fitting for therapeutic shoes for patients with diabetes, arthritis, painful bunions, callouses and hammer toes. Call to schedule an appointment! See ad, page 9.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

ABOUT YOUR HEALTH INC

120 Kaminer Way Pkwy, Ste J, Columbia 803-798-8687 • AboutYourHealthSC.com

Our main focus is health education and health-enhancing services. One-on-one nutritional counseling, Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Reams pH testing, parasite programs, aqua-chi footbaths, far infrared sauna, weight-loss programs, and thermography. Hard-to-find natural, organic, whole food nutritional supplements, raw foods and natural household items. See ad, page 39.

ORIGINAL ORIGINS HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Tracy R. Jacox • 833-678-7229

OriginalOriginshw@gmail.com

OriginalOriginshw.com

Ms. Tracy has over 30 years of experience in the medical field. The mission of Original Origins Health and Wellness is to educate, equip and empower the community to adopt a predominately whole food, plant-based lifestyle, which will improve and optimize your quality of life, health and wellness while preventing, delaying, reversing or eliminating chronic illnesses. Original Origins can assist you with maximizing your health and wellness holistically! Our wide range of services include health coach partnering, comprehensive health evaluations, comprehensive cooking experiences, and a comprehensive kitchen evaluation. Your health is your wealth! See ad, page 12.

My father didn’t tell me how to live. He lived and let me watch him do it.

~Clarence Budington Kelland

HOLISTIC NUTRITION

RADIANT HOLISTIC HEALING

Kristen Turpen

Board-Certified Holistic Nutritionist

839-207-0057

RadiantHolisticHealth@hotmail.com

RadiantHolisticHealing.net

Kristen uses personalized nutritional therapy, herbal medicine, individualized nutritional supplements, stressmanagement techniques, assistance with detoxification, and lifestyle modification to help restore optimal bodily function and balance. All treatment plans are customized to each individual’s needs. “My goal is to help treat and heal the entire body from suffering caused by any illness. One’s health is an expression of the complex interchange between the physical, environmental, chemical, mental, spiritual, as well as emotional aspects of one’s life and being.”

See ad, page 8.

HOLISTIC WELLNESS

NATURAL BEING HOLISTIC WELLNESS SPA & CENTER

1911 Barnwell St, Ste C, Columbia 803-708-8612 • nbhwsc.com

We are a very unique health and wellness center designed to help you discover a more natural and healthier way of living. Are you in need of a total detox? Do you want to rid your body of toxins or need to lose inches and burn 300 calories in 30 minutes? If you answered “yes” to these questions, then come embark on a healthy journey with us! Our extensive list of professional services includes foot detoxing, infrared sauna body wrapping, vaginal/yoni steaming, and vaginal rejuvenation. Owner and operator Sherino L. Maple is now offering complimentary consultations. Call today to book a consultation. See ad, page 13.

1 WITH NATURE THERAPIES

Amber Addy, CHHP

3937 Sunset Blvd, W Columbia 803-269-9835

1WithNatureTherapies@gmail.com

1WithNatureTherapies.com

Amber is a certified holistic healthcare practitioner and sees clients by appointment only. The first consult includes a study history and background, a physical exam, a urine test (RBTI), muscle testing and recommendations. Iridology and a Bach Flower consult are available upon request. Health services include, but are not limited to, homeopathic options. Other services include Traditional Chinese Medicine modalities, such as acupressure and reflexology, energy healing, TMP lamp, herbal recommendations, aromatherapy, and mud packing, among others. See ad, page 22.

INTEGRATIVE & HOLISTIC MEDICINE

EXPECT WELLNESS

Dr. Rachel Hall

130 Suber Rd, Columbia 803-796-1702 • DrRachelHall.com

ExpectWellness@sc.rr.com

Find us on Facebook for great health tips. Integrative/Holistic medicine consults for anyone wanting to approach their health more naturally. Dr. Rachel Hall is board certified in both family medicine and integrative holistic medicine. Together we will focus on finding the root of the problem, not just treating symptoms. Call today for a consult if you are looking to achieve balance. In-house diagnostic labs and therapies. See ad, page 5.

LOCAL RETREAT

JOY LEE CONNOR, LMT (SC#1229)

Healing Minster at Springhill AtONEment Center 803-447-6499

Joy has more than 30 years of experience in energy and bodywork. She teaches Reiki, Touch for Health, Meditation, Yoga, Ayurveda and A Course in Miracles. Joy welcomes and sees clients who are ready to shed guilt and limitations in favor of forgiveness and freedom. One hundred acres of trees surround this pristine location for healing at Springhill AtONEment Center. Nature walks and fireside gatherings available. Contact Joy at 803-447-6499.

PHILANTHROPY

SISTERS EMPOWERING EACH OTHER

Pamela Johnson, President P.O. Box 212404, Columbia 803-521-3036 • seeo2018@gmail.com

Sisters Empowering Each Other (SEEO) is a nonprofit organization founded by Pamela Johnson. Our mission is to fundraise monies in order to provide new full-sized personal hygiene packages to women who are homeless and/or abused. The women and children included may reside in shelters or transitional homes. SEEO motto: Being a Servant for the Lord. Ways to donate: Cash app –$seeo20180; PayPal–seeo2018@gmail.com; or mail check to address above. Contact Johnson to volunteer.

PREGNANCY/LACTATION

GRACEFUL BEGINNINGS BIRTH

Lindsay Millwood, CD 404-314-0363 • GracefulBeginningsBirth.com

As your doula, my goal is to provide you and your partner with the support, care, understanding and information you need throughout the birthing process. Beginning with natural birth education and assistance with birth plans through in-person prenatal appointments and birthing support, we will work together to achieve your birth goals. Postpartum services include lactation care as well as

a functional assessment for ties and oral tethers. Birth photography is also available.

REIKI & WELLNESS

AND WELLNESS

MARTA NATURALS REIKI

Martha Kirby, Reiki Master and Spiritual Life Coach

Columbia Area

803-864-6259 • MartaNaturals.com

Everything is energy, as are our thoughts. We give them life, bad or good. Everything you need is within you to change and transform those negative thoughts. Let me help you unlock those secrets to become the best version of you. We offer mobile and virtual sessions. Call today to schedule your session or free consultation. See ad, page 34

PEACEFUL PAUSE HEALING

Malai Roper

Reiki Practitioner

Northeast Columbia 803-814-4001

PeacefulPauseHealing.com

Reiki is a Japanese healing technique that promotes relaxation and reduces stress and anxiety through gentle hand movements. Using the guidance of your unique needs, treatments include a blend of reiki, sound healing, gemstone heat therapy, and chakra balancing to recharge your energy field and repair any energy blockages. Schedule your healing session online today!

SPIRITUAL QUIET MENDING

Allison Leo, Spiritual Director 937-418-3167 voice/text

QuietMending@gmail.com

Spiritual Direction is a process that guides us in uncovering and revealing the eternal and infinite aspects of our True Nature as spiritual beings. Through it, we learn to find and trust our intuitive inner voice, thus allowing us to live freely as expressions of our authentic spiritual selves. It is a confidential, one-on-one (virtually or in-person) process that unfolds safely in the wise, experienced and compassionate company of a trained and certified spiritual director. Allison Leo is a certified spiritual director and Reiki practitioner. Call, text or email to schedule a free initial consultation.

UNITY OF COLUMBIA

1801 Legrand Rd

803-736-5766 • UnityColumbia.org

Unity is a positive, practical, progressive approach to Christianity based on the teachings of Jesus and the power of prayer. Unity honors the universal truths in all religions and respects each individual’s right to choose a spiritual path. Come join us for a Sunday worship celebration and meet some positive, uplifting people that live life abundantly. See ad, page 9.

Connect with us naturally!

THERMOGRAPHY

ABOUT YOUR HEALTH INC

120 Kaminer Way Pkwy, Ste J, Columbia 803-798-8687 • AboutYourHealthSC.com

Our main focus is health education and health-enhancing services. One-on-one nutritional counseling, Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Reams pH testing, parasite programs, aquachi footbaths, far infrared sauna, weight-loss programs, and thermography. Hardto-find natural, organic, whole food nutritional supplements, raw foods and natural household items. See ad this page.

VITAMINS & SUPPLEMENTS

GARNER’S NATURAL LIFE

4840 Forest Dr, Ste 15a, Columbia 803-454-7700 • GarnersNaturalLife.com

At Garner’s Natural Life, we offer the purest, most innovative highquality natural products. With more than 130 collective years of wellness experience! Allows us to encourage your healthy choices. See ads, page 2 and back page.