Natural Awakenings Columbia Edition 0921 by Natural Awakenings Columbia Edition

E R F

HEALTHY

LIVING

HEALTHY

PLANET

Yoga

TO HEAL TRAUMA

FORGED FUNGI Cooking with Wild Mushrooms

Healing

THROUGH CREATIVITY

MIND-BODY APPROACHES Heal What Hurts September 2021 | Columbia Edition | ColumbiaNaturalAwakenings.com

September 2021

Columbia Edition

ColumbiaNaturalAwakenings.com

September 2021

Contents 24 13 ORIGINAL ORIGINS

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Pandemic-Proofing Our Immunity and Our Community!

16 FORAGED FUNGI FARE Cooking with Wild Mushrooms

20 YOGA TO HEAL TRAUMA

Soothing Poses Calm the Nervous System

22 ART’S EMBRACE

Healing Through Creativity

24 HEALTHY COOKWARE

How to Choose Non-Toxic Pots and Pans

26 CONQUERING CHRONIC PAIN

How the Body-Mind Connection Works

28 HORSES AS HEALERS Equine Therapy has Physical and Emotional Benefits

30 CREATIVE KIDS How to Nurture Imagination

33 THE POWER OF THE WRITTEN NOTE

DEPARTMENTS 7 news briefs 14 health briefs 16 conscious eating 20 fit body 24 green living 26 healing ways 4

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28 natural pet 30 healthy kids 32 eco tip 33 inspiration 36 calendar 37 natural directory

Natural Awakenings is a family of 50+ healthy living magazines celebrating 27 years of providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources we all need to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

22 20

ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings, please contact us at 803-309-2101 or email ColaPublisher@ NaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline for ads: the 12th of the month. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Email articles, news items and ideas to ColaPublisher@ NaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline for editorial: the 10th of the month. CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Submit Calendar Events at ColumbiaNaturalAwakenings. com or email to ColaPublisher@NaturalAwakenings.com. Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month. REGIONAL MARKETS Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets, call 803-309-2101. For franchising opportunities, call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakenings.com. September 2021

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

COLUMBIA EDITION

letter from publisher

Changed By a Face …

hen I was a little girl, I remember

PUBLISHER Annette Carter Briggs seeing a TV commercial depicting EDITOR Sara Gurgen a Native American man standing DESIGN & PRODUCTION Kristina Parella Billy Briggs stoically by a river, observing the water flowing ONTRIBUTING WRITERS Odell Williams C Kristi Antley

by, his face a picture of sorrow as he stared at the trash and debris floating nearby. Even then, I was SALES & MARKETING Annette Carter Briggs keenly aware of what I believed to be the reason for WEBSITE Kristina Parella his painful sadness: A precious resource critical to Billy Briggs everyone’s well-being was being treated poorly and without regard to potential consequences. Do you CONTACT US remember it too? PO Box # 2812 Columbia, SC 29202 My grandfather, a Native American, passed on Email about the time the commercial aired; I don’t know if he ColaPublisher@NaturalAwakenings.com saw it, but that 30-second ad campaign has stayed with Annette Briggs Ph: 803-309-2101 Website me. It helped shape my larger view of life, clarifying the vital role we each must play in the area ColumbiaNaturalAwakenings.com of environmental stewardship. Ever since, I have been passionate about pollution of our home planet, especially littering, and the part I can play in preserving our most precious gift: Earth. SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are available by sending $24 Through the years, I have invested much time, effort and energy teaching my three children (for 12 issues) to the above address. the caretaking values and sense of responsibility I hold dear. I have encouraged them to be NATIONAL TEAM observant of their surroundings, and wherever they encounter litter along their journey to see CEO/Founder Sharon Bruckman to its proper disposal or recycling. COO/Franchise Sales Joe Dunne Anytime you take a minute and look, you’ll see debris; it’s all around us. When I walk a Layout & Design Gabrielle W-Perillo Financial Manager Yolanda Shebert popular pedestrian-friendly site, which I do regularly, I never fail to encounter many discarded Asst. Director of Ops Heather Gibbs cigarette butts, beverage cans and other trash, likely generated by the heavy daily vehicle traffic Digital Content Director Rachael Oppy along the route. It’s particularly concerning because the area is considered one of our state’s National Advertising Lisa Doyle-Mitchell Administrative Assistant Anne-Marie Ryan most-frequented recreational sites. Recently, a friend and I were discussing this issue and its broader implications. We agreed Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation that one of the probable driving forces for such litter, specifically cigarette butts, is the lack of 4851 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. 200 Naples, FL 34103 ashtrays in newer vehicle designs. I know that there are many complex factors to be considered, Ph: 239-434-9392 • Fax: 239-434-9513 NaturalAwakeningsMag.com and the solutions for this growing problem will not be reached without conscious effort; however, I am convinced that respect for the health of our environment starts with developing a © 2021 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. sense of personal care, concern and responsibility—one realized and passed on from individual Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior to individual. permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

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In good health,

Annette Carter Briggs, Publisher

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community news

Expect Clarity Aesthetics: New Location … Same Amazing Services

xpect Clarity Aesthetics, a holistic health aesthetics practice owned by licensed practitioner and educator Angie Jewell, has moved to a new location. Jewell is a licensed skin specialist with more than 20 years of experience providing effective and successful skin therapies to clients. With more than 1,800 hours of research and continuing education, Jewell is a lifelong learner and loves creating customized health solutions for her clients. Jewell is a master aesthetician specializing in holistic health aesthetics while focusing on difficult-to-treat skin conditions with a 100 percent success rate. Other health services include facials, waxing, sugaring, brow tinting, vajacials and ear reflexology. Expect Clarity Aesthetics utilizes Environ skin care products, using 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 clients reach their skin goals. “In partnering with our clients, we do encourage active participation, as we employ deductive and intuitive methodologies to pair our clients with their optimal treatments and achieve radiant results,” says Jewell. “We are invested in strengthening the skin and working with cellular histology for each client’s unique chemistry. Positive results include luminous, smooth, taut skin with even skin pigmentation. You will have your skin your entire life; it’s how you interface with your environment. It’s never too soon or too late for healthy skin,” adds Jewell. Location: 120 Kaminer Way Pkwy. , Ste. G, in Columbia. For more information, call Angie Jewell at 803-348-8962.

About the Take Action Partnership

he Take Action SC Environmental Education Partnership is dedicated to providing a program that informs, inspires and empowers students and teachers to protect and preserve the environment. Comprised of the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), the S.C. Office of Solid Waste Reduction and Recycling, Coastal Carolina University, PalmettoPride, the S.C. Department of Energy, and Sustainable Carolina (part of the University of South Carolina), the partnership program offers lessons and support material, as well as teacher workshops and classroom presentations to promote waste reduction, recycling, composting, litter prevention and sustainability. The partnership encourages and promotes environmental education across South Carolina. This unique group of state agencies, colleges and schools, as well as other environmental organizations, believes that education is key in protecting and preserving the environment for future generations. Teachers and students are encouraged to explore environmental issues, engage in problem solving, and take action to improve the environment. And in so doing, they will (individually and collectively) develop a deeper understanding of environmental issues while cultivating the skill sets to make informed and responsible decisions. For more information or to become a partner, visit TakeActionSC.org. September 2021

community news

Saluda Shoals Park Hosts September Jazz Series

ttention all music and dance lovers! The Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission (ICRC) is hosting its popular jazz series throughout the month of September. On Friday, September 10, Saluda Shoals Park will kick off its live music jazz series with the Mark Rapp Group. On Friday, September 17, Reggie Sullivan and the Congaree Saints will be featured. And on Friday, September 24, Les Flat Out Strangers will take the stage. This fun-filled series is for music aficionados of all ages. In addition, beer and wine will be available for purchase for adults. In the event of rain, the event will be held at the cattail shelter.

KMB Hosts Lakeside Litter Sweep at Lake Murray

n Saturday, September 18, from 7 to 11 a.m., the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission (ICRC) is hosting an indoor garage sale at Seven Oaks Park, located at 200 Leisure Lane, in Columbia. Residents throughout the Midlands are encouraged to clean out the garage, attic, kids’ rooms and closets, and bring those hidden treasures to sell. Make sure to drop by and check out all of the great bargains. Anyone interested in participating as a vendor should call or stop by the park for participation details. Vendor setup will be the day before (Friday, September 17) between 4 and 7 p.m. On sale day, doors open to vendors at 6:30 a.m. and to buyers at 7 a.m. This event is open to all ages.

n Saturday, September 18, from 9 a.m. to noon, Keep the Midlands Beautiful (KMB) is hosting a cleanup event on the shorelines and islands of Lake Murray. Volunteers with boats are encouraged to travel by boat to help clean the islands of Lake Murray. Volunteers without boats are invited to clean the shorelines, or travel to islands in boats courtesy of Aquafun, Fifty-Fifty Watersports, and Captain Andrew of The Osprey. Supplies will be provided. In addition, event volunteers will receive a T-shirt; a thank you gift; door prizes; and be entered to win some fantastic grand prizes, such as complementary Jet Ski or pontoon boat rentals.

Cost: Free to enter. For more information or for vendor details, call 803-772-3336 (Seven Oaks Park). Also visit icrc.net/event/indoor-yard-sale-14.

For more information, including location details, call 803-733-1139 or visit KeepTheMidlandsBeautiful.org.

Cost: $10. Time: 7 to 9:30 p.m. Location: Saluda Shoals Park, 5605 Bush River Rd., Columbia. For more information, call 803-772-1228 or visit icrc.net. See ad, page 38.

ICRC Hosts Indoor Garage Sale

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Shred360 and Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union Host Shred Event

ime to shred! On Tuesday, September 21, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Shred360, in partnership with Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union, is hosting a shred event at the credit union, located at 919 North Lake Drive, in Lexington. Participants are limited to three boxes (copier paper box size or smaller) or three bags (kitchen trash bag size or smaller) per vehicle. There is no need to remove binders, binder clips, paper clips, staples or rubber bands prior to shredding.

Capital Parent and Baby Specialty Services

Cost: Free. For more information, call 888-874-3839, or visit PalmettoCitizens.org/events/ shred or Shred360.com. Also visit Shred360.com/Columbia.

apital Parent and Baby Specialty Services is Columbia’s premier pregnancy, birth and postpartum service provider centrally located in downtown Columbia with private parking and ramp access. The innovative healthcare facility’s beginner prenatal family support services include birth preference planning, classes and education, and lactation consultations. Throughout the birthing process, parents can be fully supported with birth doula services (including last-minute and virtual doula services). In addition, there are a variety of health treatment options available to families to assist in the postpartum period, such as a wide range of lactation services, newborn/ postpartum doula services, and classes. Car seat education, seat checks, and installations are offered for all stages of parenthood free of charge. Multiple payment options for health services are accepted, including insurance billing and FSA/HSA. Medicaid and military discounts are also available. Location: 1421 Calhoun St., Columbia. For more information or to book services, call 803-630-3454, or visit ParentAndBabysvcs.com, Facebook.com/ ParentAndBabyServices, Instagram.com/ ParentAndBabyServices or Pinterest. com/ParentAndBabyServices. See ad, page 7.

September 2021

community news

EEASC Hosts Virtual Meetup in September

t’s time to Zoom “meetup” … again! On Tuesday, September 14, from 8 to 9 a.m., the Environmental Education Association of South Carolina (EEASC) is hosting a green networking meetup informal Zoom session for environmental educators in the Midlands. Typically, meetings begin with a facilitated round-robin session where participants share updates and announcements. EEASC meetups provide opportunities for environmental educators and communicators from both formal and non-formal education settings to build relationships, strengthen partnerships, share resources and program updates, and cross-pollinate their program ideas with colleagues. Cost: Free. To register for the Zoom session, visit eeasc.org/event-444985. After registering, participants will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. For more information, email Admin@eeasc.org.

Why Trash the Poop?

et waste left on the ground is more than just a problem for shoes. Leaving it on the ground means a child can accidentally play in it. When it rains, anything on the ground—including pet waste—is washed through storm drains into nearby rivers or streams. Here in the Midlands, residents can help to keep waterways clean by participating in the Trash the Poop Campaign. The city of Columbia and Richland and Lexington counties encourage pet owners to pick up their pets’ waste and properly and effectively discard it by using free pet waste stations installed in local neighborhoods throughout the area. Pet waste can be very harmful. It contains pathogens (bacteria, parasites and viruses) that can cause diseases in humans and animals, and has three times more bacteria than human waste. When washed into waterways, pet waste can also cause oxygen to be removed from the water, which is detrimental for fish populations. Pet waste also breaks down very slowly. Even if it is in grass, there is still an opportunity for some of it to wash away when it rains. Did you know that the city of Columbia, Richland County and Lexington County each have laws that require all waste (including fecal pet waste) to be properly disposed of in a manner that does not pollute the environment? An individual caught in violation could be fined. For more information about pet waste ordinances, visit TrashThePoop.com.

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Original Origins Health and Wellness Offers September Zoom Class

riginal Origins Health and Wellness is offering a virtual Zoom class titled COVID-19: Self-Defense Beyond the Vaccine, Part One. Classes will be held on Mondays at 6:30 p.m. and on Saturdays at 11 a.m. throughout the month of September. To participate, one must download the Zoom app and open the received link. The mission of Original Origins is to educate, equip and empower our community to adopt a predominantly whole food plantbased lifestyle, which will improve quality of life; optimize health and wellness; and prevent, delay, reverse or eliminate chronic illnesses that plague our community. Cost: $20. For more information or to register, call 833-678-7229. Also visit OriginalOriginshw.com. See ad, page 8.

Midlands Family Food Truck Fest Hits the Midlands

eady for some fantastic food? On Sunday, September 12, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Touch of Magic Events is hosting its Midlands Family Food Truck Fest at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, located at 1101 Lincoln Street. Free to enter, Midlands area families are invited out to enjoy a variety of food options; meet amazing local businesses; get some shopping done; and have fun with free entertainment and activities, including massages, bounce houses, a photo booth, face painting, balloon animals, stage demos and much more! As a note, this is a kid-friendly event, so alcohol will not be served and pets are not allowed—with the exception of service animals. Cost: Free to enter. For more information, email Info@TouchOfMagicEvents.com. Also visit Eventbrite.com/e/midlands-familyfood-truck-fest-tickets-72877262855.

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community news

Asya’s Organic Farm: An Amazing Story of Success

sya’s Organic Farm is owned by young entrepreneur Asya Harris. Harris started working on her parents’ farm at age 6 and fell in love with the farm. This driven young business woman successfully expanded her business by studying entrepreneurship. Harris currently markets herbal teas, supplements, essential oils and much more. Harris is also a gemstone and natural minerals enthusiast. She has also added healing crystals and gemstones to her line of products. Harris’ products can be purchased online from Etsy @SCFOrganicFarms and on her business Instagram account @Asya_Organic_Farm. For more information, call 803-463-2968. Also visit SCFOrganicFarms.com. See ad, page 4.

Jubilee: Festival of Black History and Culture

n Saturday, September 18, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Historic Columbia will host its Jubilee: Festival of Black History and Culture. Now in its 43rd year, this free festival brings musicians, artisans and storytellers together to celebrate South Carolina’s black history and culture on the grounds of the Mann-Simons Site, located at 1403 Richland Street, in Columbia. Jubilee is a celebration that everyone can enjoy featuring live music and entertainment; artist demonstrations; historic storytelling; reenactments; and marketplace vendors selling a variety of wares, products and art pieces. In addition, a children’s area will be available with educational and family-friendly activities. A wide variety of food vendors will be on-site selling delicious foods and tasty treats aligned with the festival’s cultural representations. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control will offer all three COVID-19 vaccines to event participants. Cost: Free to enter. For more information, call 803-252-7742 or visit HistoricColumbia.org.

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business spotlight

Original Origins Health and Wellness Pandemic-Proofing Our Immunity and Our Community! by Kristi Antley

nless you live under a rock, you can’t avoid the obvious: The COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the very problematic variants, continues to be a serious global issue. We now have several vaccine options; however, receiving a vaccine is not the most important step in protecting ourselves. Original Origins Health and Wellness believes in addressing health issues at the source. “Building our immune system is absolutely key to protecting ourselves and our families,” says Ms. Tracy, owner of Original Origins. “It is necessary to understand that combating any illness must start with our health.” How can we improve our immune system? We need to embrace and adopt a healthier lifestyle first and foremost. Those that have underlying health conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension and heart disease, are most likely to be hospitalized or die from COVID-19 complications. If you or a loved one has any underlying illness, it is imperative to properly manage the condition to get it under control. Original Origins believes in addressing these issues from a holistic perspective. Here are some tips from Ms. Tracy on how to boost your immune system: 1. Manage stress and get enough rest. Sleep deprivation and stress overload suppress immune system function. 2. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially foods with vitamin C and beta-carotene. 3. Drink plenty of water, preferably spring, alkaline or distilled. Add fresh citrus for additional benefit. 4. Get at least 30 minutes of sun-

light daily—between the hours of 9 to 11 a.m. is optimal. Sunlight helps to generate vitamin D naturally. 5. Exercise! You don’t have to kill yourself at a gym. Get out in nature and walk for at least 30 minutes daily. Try walking 10 minutes at a time if you are unable to walk a full 30 minutes. Every little bit adds up. 6. Wash your hands frequently with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If no tissue is available, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, arm or elbow. 7. If you are sick, STAY AT HOME! Also keep your children at home if they are sick and avoid contact with those that are sick. 8. Clean and disinfect objects or surfaces that may have encountered germs. We are quickly approaching flu season as well, so it is important to start and maintain a routine that will give us the best opportunity to stay healthy. Original Origins is committed to developing health and wellness strategies that meet the unique needs of each client. Adds Ms. Tracy: “We need to realize that one size does not fit all and that our health is our true wealth. My comprehensive health evaluation allows me to partner with my client to strategize the best plan of action for success. I always advise my clients that if they focus on the changes I recommend, the results will follow—mind, body and spirit.” Original Origins Health and Wellness is offering virtual classes. The cost of each class is $20, and space is limited. Those interested must have Zoom access. Call for class dates and times. This month, Original Origins will host its COVID-19: Self-Defense Beyond the Vaccine educational session. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 833-678-7229 or visit OriginalOriginshw.com. Also visit Original Origins’ Facebook page: Facebook.com/ OriginalOriginshw for upcoming events. See ad, page 8.

September 2021

health briefs

vegan liftz/Pexels.com

Eating more plants than meat is not only good for the planet, it might also be protective against COVID-19 severity, reports a new study in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health. Researchers from Johns Hopkins and other universities analyzed web-based responses from almost 2,900 frontline doctors and nurses in the U.S., France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK that had been significantly exposed to COVID-19, 95 percent of which were doctors and 70 percent males. Those that ate a plant-based diet, described as high in vegetables, legumes and nuts, and low in poultry and meats, were 73 percent less likely to contract moderate to severe COVID-19. Those with pescatarian diets allowing fish were 59 percent less likely. However, those following low-carbohydrate, high-protein diets had 48 percent greater odds of moderate to severe COVID-19. “Our results suggest that a healthy diet rich in Eating two nutrient-dense foods may be considered for protection servings of against severe COVID-19,” researchers concluded. fruit a day lowers the risk of developing Type 2 Expectant mothers that foldiabetes by low a healthy diet from con36 percent ception through the second in five years trimester lower their risk compared to of such pregnancy comeating less plications as gestational than half a serving, suggests research from Australia’s diabetes, hypertension, Edith Cowan University Institute for Nutrition Research. preeclampsia and preterm The study followed 7,676 people and found that higher delivery, concludes a new total fruit intake of apples, bananas, oranges and other study in The American Journal of citrus fruits was linked to better measures of glucose Clinical Nutrition. Researchers tolerance and insulin sensitivity. The same pattern did from the National Institute of not hold for fruit juice. Previous U.S. cohort studies have Child Health and Human Developfound that eating three servings per week of certain ment surveyed nearly 1,900 women at two points in their fruits lowers the risk of Type 2 diabetes by the followpregnancies. Their responses were scored according to ing percentages: blueberries (26 percent), grapes and three measures of healthy eating: the Alternate Healthy raisins (12 percent), apples and pears (7 percent) and Eating Index, Alternate Mediterranean Diet and Dietary bananas and grapefruits (5 percent). Three servings of Approaches to Stop Hypertension Diet. All three emphacantaloupe, however, raises the risk by 10 percent. size consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and legumes, while limiting red and processed meat.

Certain Fruits Can Protect Against Diabetes

shvets productions/Pexels.com

Lower Pregnancy Risks with a Healthy Diet

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doxiao productions/Shutterstock.com

Plant-Based Meals Reduce Severe COVID-19 Risks

September 2021

conscious eating

FORAGED FUNGI FARE

Cooking with Wild Mushrooms

ivan kmitAdobeStock.com

by April Thompson

ild mushrooms can infuse exciting new flavors and textures into familiar dishes, along with a taste of the local terroir, the natural habitat, from woods to plate. “I first encountered wild mushrooms through local foragers, then later from specialty food purveyors who would fly mushrooms from around the world into our kitchen. They were the most unique ingredients I could find, offering colors, flavors and textures I had never experienced … pure catnip for a chef,” says Alan Bergo, a Minnesota chef and author of The Forager Chef ’s Book of Flora. Recipes at ForagerChef.com feature more than 60 species of wild edible fungi, from common deer mushrooms to prized porcinis. The intriguing flavors of wild mushrooms in part come from their diets, akin to the difference between grain- and grass-fed meats. “For fungi, their food is their habitat. Culti16

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vated mushrooms have less variety of the micronutrients and secondary metabolites that can add flavor to a wild mushroom,” says Eugenia Bone, a New York City food journalist and editor of Fantastic Fungi: The Community Cookbook. Foraged fungi also offer a host of nutritional benefits surpassing commercially grown mushrooms. Wild mushrooms like chanterelles and morels can contain up to 1,200 international units (IU) of vitamin D

per serving, whereas commercial mushrooms, typically grown in dark conditions, contain less than 40 IU, according to the Harvard School of Public Health. While foraging is the most satisfying way to procure wild mushrooms, they are becoming increasingly available through farmers’ markets, online purveyors and gourmet stores. Some species that grow wild throughout North America such as oysters, maitake (hen of the woods) and lion’s mane are also grown commercially; these can be suitable for transitioning from buying to hunting. Sam Fitz, owner of ANXO Cidery & Tasting Room, a neighborhood taproom in Washington, D.C., picked up mushrooming when COVID-19 hit, in part mentored by the restaurant’s wild food purveyor. Fitz started ANXO making hyperlocal ciders from crabapples foraged on bike rides through the nation’s capital, salvaging fruit that otherwise would go to waste. Today, the seasonally focused menu often features wild fungi and other foraged ingredients from savory tartelettes made with beech and hedgehog mushrooms to cocktails

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

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

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

Hen of the Woods Steaks 4-oz pieces of hen of the woods (Grifola frondosa) mushrooms, broken into large clusters Kosher salt Cooking oil as needed, about ¼ cup Clean the hens by swishing them in cool water, gently peering inside the caps to make sure they are cleaned, trimming with a paring knife as needed, then allowing to drain on paper towels. Heat the oil in a pan or on a griddle until hot, but not smoking. Add the mushroom clump and season with salt, placing a weight— like a rock, log, crumbly wood or cinder block wrapped in foil or a pan—on top, then cook until the underside is deeply caramelized, then flip and repeat.

akepong/AdobeStock.com

Alan Bergo, ForagerChef.com

yield: 1 serving per 4 ounces mushrooms

If the pan gets dry, add a little more oil. When both sides of the mushrooms are deeply caramelized and browned, serve immediately, with extra finishing salt on the side. Recipe from Alan Bergo, ForagerChef.com. September 2021

Sicilian Chicken of the Woods Here is a traditional Italian preparation for chicken of the woods (Laetiporus sulphureus or Laetiporus cincinnatus), flavored with wild monarda leaves and served with charred bread rubbed with garlic. 1 lb young tender chicken of the woods, sliced ¼- to ½-inch thick 1 large clove garlic ¼ cup mild or extra-virgin olive oil mixed with flavorless oil, like grapeseed (plus 1 or 2 Tbsp extra if the pan threatens to dry out), along with a drizzle at the end 1 large shallot or small yellow onion 1 Tbsp sliced Monarda fistulosa (also known as bee balm or wild bergamot) or fresh mint or oregano Crushed red pepper flakes or hot chili to taste 1 Tbsp capers or a small handful of Castelvetrano olives (or other green olives) 2 dried bay leaves ¼ cup dry white wine ¼ cup water or stock 1½ cups seedless tomato puree or tomato sauce Grilled high-quality bread, preferably slightly charred, for serving 2 whole fresh garlic cloves as needed for rubbing into the bread

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Heat the oil in a wide pan with high sides. A cast iron skillet will work, but isn’t ideal as the sauce is acidic. Add the mushrooms and cook until they’ve given up their moisture, then push them to the side of the pan, add a little extra oil if the pan looks dry, or if the mushrooms were very juicy. Add the garlic to the clean spot of the pan, then arrange the pan off-center on the burner so that the heat is focused on the garlic. Sweat the garlic in the oil slowly until it’s light golden and aromatic, then add the shallots and cook for 1 minute. Add the crushed red pepper directly to the garlic and shallot, cook for a moment more, then deglaze the pan with the wine, tossing in the bay leaf. Reduce the sauce by one half, then add the tomato puree, water, capers or olives, bergamot or other herbs and cook until the mixture is thickened lightly and the mushrooms are coated with a rich sauce, about 15 minutes. Meanwhile, lightly oil the bread and char on a grill. It should have good black spots, but not be ashy. Rub a garlic clove gently into the toasted bread slices, pressing down so that it “melts” into the bread a bit—don’t go crazy, a little goes a long way. Double check the seasoning of the mushrooms for salt and chili, adjust as needed, then serve the stewed mushrooms with the grilled garlic bread on the side. Drizzle some oil over the top to give the dish an attractive sheen. Spoon the mushrooms and their sauce on the bread and eat. Leftovers make killer mushroom hoagies a la cheesy meatball sub sandwiches. Recipe from Alan Bergo, ForagerChef.com.

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photo by Alan Bergo, ForagerChef.com

yield: 4 to 6 servings

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photo by Evan Sung

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

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Recipe by Annaliese Bischoff from Fantastic Fungi: The Community Cookbook, edited by Eugenia Bone.

Natural Awakenings recommends using organic, non-GMO (genetically modified) and non-bromated ingredients whenever possible. September 2021

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YOGA TO HEAL TRAUMA Soothing Poses Calm the Nervous System

etting on the yoga mat can be a powerful stress-buster that lowers blood pressure and excessive cortisol, but yoga can offer an added boon for those living with the lasting effects of traumatic events. Trauma-informed yoga (also called trauma-sensitive yoga) is a promising therapeutic branch of the yogic system designed to quell the body’s programmed “fight-or-flight” responses. Founded on yoga, psychology and neurobiology principles, the approach is in harmony with the ancient yogic concept of samskaras, or memories imprinted on our cellular consciousness. People from many walks of life can benefit from trauma-sensitive yoga including bullied teens, women rebounding from abuse and anyone impacted by pandemic turmoil. Research published in the journal Military Medicine in 2018 reports that U.S. veterans of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq that participated in a one-hour vinyasa-style yoga session for six weeks showed significantly lowered post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, as well as less insomnia, depression and anxiety.

Trauma-Intelligent Fitness Yoga performed with trauma sensitivity can pick up where talk 20

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

The Power of Choice and Individuality Lisa Danylchuk, the Oakland-based author of Yoga for Trauma Recovery: Theory, Philosophy, and Practice, underscores that in

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by Marlaina Donato

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

September 2021

ART’S EMBRACE Healing Through Creativity by Sandra Yeyati

almost half as likely to develop depression in older age. Other studies suggest that music can unlock memories and improve cognition. UF researchers are currently investigating whether live music in emergency and trauma care settings can reduce the need for opioids. “When people engage in the arts, they often enter into a flow state, that experience of losing yourself in art where we lose track of time and what we’re doing is intrinsically motivated,” Sonke says. “A flow state can engage a relaxation response, helping to reduce stress and anxiety, which can enhance immune function.”

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

Art in Medical Settings

According to Jill Sonke, director of the University of Florida (UF) Center for Arts in Medicine, approximately half of U.S. hospitals have art programs that provide positive distraction, enjoyment and connection. To humanize otherwise intimidating environments, visual artists and musicians are employed to install appealing exhibits and play relaxing music. Artists also work at the bedside with patients as part of inter-professional care teams. Serving as an artist-in-residence early in her career, Sonke remembers a young female patient with sickle cell disease whose bouts of extreme pain required hospitalization. Dance sessions eased her suffering and enabled doctors to reduce pain medications. “The way the patient described it was not that the pain was going away, but that she didn’t mind it as much because she was enjoying dancing,” she says. While facilitating Dance for Life classes for Parkinson’s patients, Sonke encountered a man suffering limited mobility and an inability to form facial expressions. After two months of biweekly sessions, he could lift his arms over his head and, to his wife’s delight, smile again. “It’s that multimodal capacity of the arts,” Sonke explains. “All at the same time, he was engaging in music, movement and imagery. He was moving with others and experiencing joy and laughter.” According to Sonke, ongoing research seeks to pinpoint the public health benefits of art. In Britain, they have learned that people over 50 visiting museums or concerts once a month are 22

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Art Therapy for Cancer Patients

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

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

Redemption Songs in Skid Row

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

Creative Care for People with Dementia

Drawing from her theater background, Anne Basting, author of Creative Care, has developed an innovative approach to dementia and elder care. “Our current caregiving model envisions one person that’s empty and has lots of needs and the other person that’s full and pours themself into the other person, which leads to burnout,” she says. “Dementia and aging are experiences of increasing separation. People isolate themselves and learn not to trust their own expressive capacities, because their relatives and friends no longer know how to relate with them and often ignore their words.”

Basting’s Creative Care changes this depleting dynamic. “In improvisational theater, you observe everything that’s happen-ing on stage and try to figure out how you can add to the performance positively,” she explains. “Applying that idea to a care situation, you observe the person’s facial expressions, what they’re saying, how they’re behaving and then invite them into expression out of that moment with what we call a ‘beautiful question’, one that has no right or wrong answers and draws on the person’s strengths.” A beautiful question might be, “If your feet could talk, what would they say?” This offers people with pain a poetic way to express it. “I invited a gentleman with dementia who had no language—no words left—to show me how water moves. His response was the most beautiful dance I’d ever experienced, performed in the kitchen of his duplex,” Basting recalls, adding that it’s important to acknowledge the person’s expression so they know they’ve been heard. The final step in Creative Care is to accumulate these experiences over time and shape something larger and universally meaningful that can be shared with others—an artistic product. Basting founded the nonprofit TimeSlips to train artists and caregivers worldwide to do this visionary work. Their efforts have resulted in art exhibits, dance and theater productions, books and animations. “My dream is that meaning and beauty will be made every day in nursing homes, creating care settings so interesting that people want to visit them—a new kind of cultural center, integrating health and art,” she says.

Transforming a City with Public Art

More than 4,000 works of public art grace the city of Philadelphia, three-quarters of which are breathtaking murals that combine world-class paintings and images with provocative words and healing messages. Art permeates virtually every neighborhood on walls, billboards, sidewalks, rooftops, swimming pools and basketball courts, enriching people from all walks of life, even those that don’t have access to galleries and museums. “Public art lifts our spirits, provides us with beauty and inspires us,” says Jane Golden, founder and executive director of Mural Arts Philadelphia (MAP). “It can be evocative, challenging and educational, as well, serving as a barometer of our time—a system of checks and balances and a mirror that we hold up to people and say that your life counts and you matter.” In addition to sponsoring 75 to 100 new works every year, MAP’s $10 million budget funds programs related to criminal justice, art education, housing insecurity, behavioral health, community development and environmental justice. According to Golden, the healing power of art is not just in the mural, but also in its collaborative creation. In addition to artists and educators, hundreds of people work on these projects, including individuals grappling with addiction or homelessness, veterans with PTSD and immigrants and refugees facing isolation and stigma. “The act of creating is a meditative and healing experience, and because you’re part of a larger effort, it connects you to your community,” Golden says. “People start to feel a sense of purpose and value. They start to believe in themselves again.” Sandra Yeyati, J.D., is a professional writer and editor. Reach her at SandraYeyati@gmail.com. September 2021

green living

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

Stainless Steel

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

Copper

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

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

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

Cast Iron For classic, durable and versatile cookware, cast iron, although heavy, will last a lifetime. While some iron can transfer to food, it’s difficult to measure and depends on the pan and the food. Naturopathic doctor Kara Fitzgerald, in Newtown, Connecticut, suggests caution. “If you have a history of iron overload (hemochromatosis), you should avoid cast iron cookware, especially for acidic foods.” Enameled cast iron has a nonstick, porcelain coating and is unaffected by acidity. 24

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

Ceramic-Coated Aluminum

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

Glass

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

Nonstick

Teflon coating, made from polytetrafluoroethylene, is for many consumers the go-to coating for nonstick

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

nutritionist and cookbook author Carrie Forrest of CleanEatingKitchen.com.

Healthiest Choice

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

Goodbye Junk. Hello Relief.

Amy Coyle is a freelance writer in Wynnewood, Pennsylvania.

You don’t always need a plan. Sometimes you just need to breathe, trust, let go and see what happens. ~Mandy Hale Trusted Junk Removal Since 1989 1-800-468-5865 | 1800gotjunk.com

September 2021

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healing ways

Conquering Chronic Pain

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

n Getting at least seven hours of sleep a night, which may require sleeping pills or natural methods.

How the Body-Mind Connection Works

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

by Ronica O’Hara

n Practicing “active meditation” throughout the day by mindfully focusing each time on a sight, sound or sensation for five to 10 seconds.

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

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

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PROMISING PAIN RELIEF THERAPIES In the offices of holistic practitioners and in some medical centers, a wide range of integrative modalities to treat chronic pain are healing the afflicted. Some commonly used options, which can be part of a multipronged approach or effective individually, include:

n CBD. Studies show this cannabis-derived substance, the non-mind-altering form of marijuana, acts on multiple pain targets in the central and peripheral nervous systems. It has demonstrated pain-relieving effects for neuropathy, some cancers, arthritis and irritable bowel disease, among other conditions. A University of Michigan study of 878 people with fibromyalgia that had used cannabidiol (CBD) products found that more than 70 percent had substituted it for opioids or other pain medications, with many stopping them altogether as a result. With research mounting, almost every state now allows CBD use in some form. n TURMERIC/CURCUMIN. The Indian spice that makes curry yellow has potent anti-inflammatory properties, especially in formulations that combine it with piperine (black pepper) to enhance bioavailability. A meta-analysis in Oxford Pain Medicine of eight randomized controlled trials of curcumin involving 800 patients with muscle pain, osteoarthritis or postoperative pain found that it effectively lowered pain levels without adverse reactions, outperforming nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and paracetamol (ibuprofen) for knee osteoarthritis pain.

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

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

n HYPNOSIS. By lowering the fear and anxiety that aggravate pain sensations, hypnosis reduces pain as effectively as many other approaches at a relatively low cost. A meta-analysis of 18 studies found that 75 percent of people, including those with both acute and chronic pain, received substantial relief from hypnotic techniques without side effects. In a University of Washington study, patients kept practicing self-hypnosis after completing the study even if it had not relieved their pain, saying it gave them better sleep, lower stress and a greater sense of calm and well-being. Hypnotherapy treatment usually involves four to 10 sessions and is often covered in full or in part by insurance companies or Medicare. n LOW-DOSE NALTREXONE. When taken at levels of 50 to 100 milligrams (mg) daily, this medication weans people off opioids and alcohol, but when used at low doses of less than 2 mg, research suggests it can ease the pain of autoimmune and inflammatory conditions like Crohn’s disease, multiple sclerosis and fibromyalgia. Stanford School of Medicine researchers reported it significantly reduced pain for 32 percent of fibromyalgia patients and also improved mood and life satisfaction, noting, “The medication is widely available, inexpensive, safe and well-tolerated.” September 2021

natural pet

Equine Psychotherapists

Horses as Healers Equine Therapy has Physical and Emotional Benefits

by Julie Peterson

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

Equine-assisted psychotherapy involves counseling with a mental health professional and time riding or caring for a horse. The horse is considered a co-therapist. Forming a relationship with an animal that weighs 1,000 pounds or more may be intimidating, but the required vulnerability and trust is part of the process. “Horses show us how to live together in harmony. They teach us about acceptance of others and of ourselves,” says Marcy Tocker, clinical mental health counselor and founder and executive director of Grey Muzzle Manor Sanctuary, in Mohrsville, Pennsylvania. “In some cases, I see results more quickly using equine therapy than solely with office therapy. I also see more motivation from typically resistant clients because this can actually be fun, too,” says Meagan Good, a counselor and owner of Take Heart Counseling & Equine Assisted Therapy, in Wernersville, Pennsylvania. “Horses are relationship-oriented and intuitively sense and honestly respond to the emotions of those around them, which makes the horse-human bond a powerful healing mechanism.” “Horses have similar emotions to humans—they get stressed out, happy, impatient. That’s why equine-assisted services are so popular,” says Traci Leigh, equine manager and instructor at Dream Riders TLC, in Crystal Lake, Illinois.

Beyond working as co-therapists for emotional issues, horses are excellent for occupational, speech and physical therapy. “Riding a horse rhythmically moves the rider’s body in a manner similar to a human gait. Their pelvic movement is the same as ours, so riders with physical needs often show improvement in flexibility, balance, muscle strength, circulation and breathing,” says Pamela J. Rogan, founder, executive director and certified therapeutic riding instructor at Harmony Farms, in Cocoa, Florida. “It will also enhance a rider’s quality of life, build confidence, independence and self-esteem. This is particularly true of riders with emotional 28

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Therapeutic Riding

Horses are relationship-oriented and intuitively sense and honestly respond to the emotions of those around them, which makes the horse-human bond a powerful healing mechanism. or behavioral disabilities.” Research shows that children and adults with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke and other conditions that affect motor control saw improvements in balance, gait, gross motor function and posture after several weeks of equine-assisted treatment.

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

healthy kids

everyday problems. “Ask them, ‘What would it take to finish this project?’ Make it fun, brainstorm and mind-map, rather than make linear lists,” she suggests. “Ask open-ended questions, perhaps a bit out of the norm. ‘How did you feel when you were writing that short story? What colors crossed your mind as you were singing? What music was flowing through your body as you were painting?’ The idea is to mix things up a bit to allow a new take on your child’s emerging creativity.”

Creative Kids

How to Nurture Imagination by Ronica O’Hara

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

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

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

September 2021

eco tip

cy’s website epa.gov for safe cleanup instructions.

Shedding Light on Lightbulbs

Proper disposal: Go to Earth911.com to search for nearby CFL disposal facilities.

The Ins and Outs of Our Options

led supermarket/pexels.com

Don’t be left in the dark when choosing lightbulbs. Lighting accounts for up to 20 percent of a household’s energy bill, and untold numbers of bulbs end up in landfills. Let’s illuminate some bulb options to increase savings and reduce waste. INCANDESCENT BULBS, the iconic symbol for a bright idea, were the only option until the early 2000s. They’re hot to the touch and no longer easy to find because governments worldwide have ordered them phased out to lower energy consumption.

Energy efficiency: Each bulb lasts one to two years, and 80 percent of the electricity is lost as heat. Cost efficiency: Estimated $4.80 to $7.01 annual cost of operation. Potential health risks: No toxic chemicals. They can cause burns or fires if hot from use. Proper disposal: Not recyclable. Throw away in garbage. COMPACT FLUORESCENT LIGHTS (CFL) were a great answer to the incandescent bulbs that came before them as far as energy efficiency, but they have disadvantages, as well. Energy efficiency: About 65 to 75 percent more efficient than incandescent. Cost efficiency: Estimated $1.25 to $1.75 annual cost of operation. Potential health risks: CFLs contain small traces of mercury and emit puffs of toxic powder when they break. Visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agen-

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

inspiration

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

jacob lund/AdobeStock.com

by Julie Peterson

Here’s how to get started.

Stock Supplies

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

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

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

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

Copper Stops Germs Before They Spread

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

Columbia Edition

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

Mark Anthony, JD Psychic Explorer

75 th A NNIVERSARY !

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

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

“Mark Anthony shows that while we cannot control death, we can control how we understand and react to it in healthy ways.” Bruce Greyson, MD, co-founder of IANDS and author of “After: A doctor Explores what Near-Death Experiences Reveal about Life and Beyond”

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

AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF A YOGI

The book that has c hanged the lives of millions Paperback, only $8.50 Also available in eBook and audio editions

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

www.AfterlifeFrequency.com

w w w. AYa n n i ve rs a r y. o rg September 2021

calendarofevents To place a calendar/ongoing/classified event, email content to ColaPublisher@NaturalAwakenings.com. Entries must adhere to our guidelines and be submitted by September 12 (for October 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, SEPTEMBER 3 Paddle and Pint–6-8:30pm. Paddle the Lower Saluda River and enjoy the beautiful scenery. After an hour on the water, sample delicious craft beers from Columbia Craft at the River Overlook. (Trip dependent on weather.) Take home a Saluda Shoals Park glass. Light refreshments served. Ages 21 and up. Cost: $47. Saluda Shoals Park, 5605 Bush River Rd, Columbia. Info: icrc.net. Jubilee! Circle’s Friday Open Mic and Coffee House–7pm. Open mic at 8pm. Open mic participants are welcome to bring their own microphone for sanitary purposes. Cost: Suggested $10 donation covers food and beverages. Jubilee! Circle, 6729 Two Notch Rd, Columbia. Info: Info@JubileeCircle. com, JubileeCircle.com.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 Backyard Saturdays–Bluebird Day–10am-noon. Families experience nature at Saluda Shoals Park. Fun activities, crafts, stories and cool biofacts. Ages 7 and under. Cost: $5 parking. Leo’s Landing Saluda Shoals Park, 5605 Bush River Rd, Columbia. Info: 803-772-1228, RKennerly@icrc.net.

SATURDAYS SEPTEMBER 4, 11, 18 & 25 Murraywood Health Foods 20% off Saturdays–10am-6pm. 20% off all grocery items, excluding local honey. Murraywood Shopping Center, 7001 St Andrews Rd, Columbia. Info: 803-732-3847.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 Saluda Shoals Jazz Series–7-9:30pm. Mark Rapp Group. Live Jazz outdoors on the deck. Food from Dupre Catering; beer and wine will be available for purchase. Seating is provided. No outside food and beverages. All ages. Cost: $10. Saluda Shoals

Park, 5605 Bush River Rd, Columbia. Info/tickets: 803-213-2062, icrc.net.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 Saluda Shoals Jazz Series–7-9:30pm. Reggie Sullivan and the Congaree Saints. Live Jazz outdoors on the deck. Food from Dupre Catering; beer and wine will be available for purchase. Seating is provided. No outside food and beverages. All ages. Cost: $10. Saluda Shoals Park, 5605 Bush River Rd, Columbia. Info/tickets: 803-213-2062, icrc.net. ICRC Indoor Yard Sale–7-11am. Great bargains and treasures. Doors open to vendors at 6:30am. Setup must be done Friday between 4-7pm. Admission is free to buyers. Seven Oaks Park, 200 Leisure Ln, Columbia. Info/vendor info: 803-772-3336. Lamaze Childbirth Class–9am-4:30pm. With Jordan Black Peacock. Cost: $200. Location TBD. Info: 803-630-3454, ParentAndBabyServices@ gmail.com, ParentAndBabysvcs.com.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 Saluda Shoals Jazz Series–7-9:30pm. Les Flat Out Strangers. Live Jazz outdoors on the deck. Food from Dupre Catering; beer and wine will be available for purchase. Seating is provided. No outside food and beverages. All ages. Cost: $10. Saluda Shoals Park, 5605 Bush River Rd, Columbia. Info/ tickets: 803-213-2062, icrc.net.

planahead SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10 Plant-Based Cooking Class Series–4:30pm. Live demos, breakfast, lunch, dinner, desserts and sides. Class and tasting feast is designed to help you succeed in prevention and reversal of obesity, heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, low energy, digestive issues, and more. Free. Columbia Adventist Academy Gym, 241 Riverchase Way, Lexington. Info: Contact Sandra Sturkie at Info@ ColumbiaFirst.org. Lamaze Childbirth Class–9am-4:30pm. With Jordan Black Peacock. Cost: $200. Location TBD. Info: 803-630-3454, ParentAndBabyServices@ gmail.com, ParentAndBabysvcs.com.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 13 Infant CPR Class–10am-noon. With Jordan Black Peacock. Cost: $80. Location TBD. Info: 803630-3454, ParentAndBabyServices@gmail.com, ParentAndBabysvcs.com. Newborn Care Class–1-3pm. With Jordan Black Peacock. Cost: $80. Location TBD. Info: 803630-3454, ParentAndBabyServices@gmail.com, ParentAndBabysvcs.com.

Columbia Edition

Pumping 101 Class–10am-noon. With Jordan Black Peacock. Cost: $80. Location TBD. Info: 803-630-3454, ParentAndBabyServices@gmail. com, ParentAndBabysvcs.com. Breastfeeding/Lactation Basics–1-3pm. With Jordan Black Peacock. Cost: $80. Location TBD. Info: 803-630-3454, ParentAndBabyServices@ gmail.com, ParentAndBabysvcs.com.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 6

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 20

ColumbiaNaturalAwakenings.com

ongoing events sunday A Course in Miracles–Original Edition–4:30-6pm. Every Sunday. Study group via Zoom/phone. We read together and discuss questions, insights and experiences. Donations are accepted. Info: Contact Joy Lee Connor at 803-447-6499 or JoyLeeConnor@BellSouth.net.

monday COVID-19: Self-Defense Beyond the Vaccine, Part 1–6:30pm. Every Monday. Virtual class via Zoom. Cost: $20. Info: Contact Ms. Tracy at 833678-7229 or OriginalOriginshw@gmail.com. Trance Healing Group–7pm. Every Monday. Session via Zoom. We will go into a meditative state and link with my guides, and they will perform the energy work. Cost: $15. Pay at ReikiByJoy.com. Info: Contact Joy Stagg at 803-575-0811.

tuesday Original Origins Healthy Living Support Group–6:30pm. First Tuesday. Must register to attend. Info: Contact Ms. Tracy at 833-678-7229 or OriginalOriginshw@gmail.com.

saturday Virtual Zumba–8am. Every Saturday. Join licensed Zumba instructor Shaunita Grase via Zoom. Cost: $5. Info/register: ShaunitaGrase.Zumba.com. COVID-19: Self-Defense Beyond the Vaccine, Part 1–11am. Every Saturday. Virtual class via Zoom. Cost: $20. Info: Contact Ms. Tracy at 833678-7229 or OriginalOriginshw@gmail.com.

naturaldirectory 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 10.

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 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, pages 3 and back page.

BIRTHING/DOULA CAPITAL PARENT AND BABY SPECIALTY SERVICES

J. Black-Peacock, BS, IBCLC, LCCE, CPST, CBD 1421 Calhoun St, Columbia 803-630-3454 • ParentAndBabysvcs.com

Columbia’s premier pregnancy, birth and postpartum service provider. Our pregnancy services include classes/education, birth preference planning, and prenatal lactation consultations. Our birth services include birth doula services (with traditional, last-minute or virtual services available). Our postpartum services include newborn/postpartum doula services, lactation

services, and education/classes. Car seat checks, installations and education are also available. See ad, page 7.

BODY SCULPTING BODIED BEAUTY LOUNGE

coming in the october healthy planet issue

Breast Health and Living a Simpler Life

3201 Broad River Rd, Columbia 803-479-3351 • BodiedBeautyLounge.com

A premier body-sculpting lounge with luxe services to build a baddie body naturally with no downtime. The expert staff members at Bodied Beauty Lounge are very knowledgeable and friendly—specializing in the areas of nonsurgical/non-invasive body sculpting, certified laser lipo, ultrasonic cavitation, radio frequency skin tightening, non-surgical Brazilian butt lifts, wood therapy, yoni steaming and much more. We are here and ready to help you achieve your body goals in less time and at affordable pricing. Come #GetBodied today!

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.

plus: water scarcity talking to kids about climate change

Connect with us naturally!

September 2021

FLEX CHIROPRACTIC

Dr. Angela Larson Dr. Felicia Danio 1811 Bull St, Columbia 803-252-0108 • FlexChiros.com

With more than 22 years of experience in the chiropractic i n d u s t r y, o u r t e a m i s knowledgeable, experienced and courteous. Combining a passion for healing and alleviating pain with two decades of good old-fashioned know-how, we give you the customized chiropractic treatment you truly deserve. Our vast list of services includes: decompression; Pro Adjuster; pregnancy care; newborns, infants and toddler care; massage therapy; ultrasound; Kinesiology taping; and cold laser. Call today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Larson or Dr. Danio. Let our team help you achieve a happy, healthy life through chiropractic care!

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 25.

ECO-RICH SKIN CARE PRODUCTS

environment. Our brands include ingredients such as organic oils, butters, flowers, herbs, botanicals, local grains, beeswax and honey. Find our products at such stores as Garner’s Natural Life, Four Oaks Farm, Wingard’s Nursery, Whole Foods and more. For a complete list of retail locations, visit our website.

ENDOMETRIOSIS HAYLI’S HERBS LLC

Master Herbalist HaylisHerbs.com Online Herbal Consultations for the Symptoms of Endometriosis

Living with endometriosis can be stressful, confusing and overwhelming. I put together herbal combinations specific to your individual needs to help combat and potentially eliminate the symptoms of endometriosis. Please visit HaylisHerbs.com for more information and to schedule a free 15-minute pre-consultation.

HEALTH FOOD STORE MURRAYWOOD HEALTH FOODS

Richard Beale, Owner • 803-732-3847 7001 St. Andrews Rd, Irmo In Murraywood Shopping Centre Hours: Mon-Sat, 10am-6pm

Locally owned and proudly serving Irmo and the Midlands area for more than 25 years, Murraywood Health Foods is a health and specialty food store featuring the very best natural product brands, vitamins and minerals, herbs and homeopathic remedies. The store also carries natural and organic gluten-free foods and health and beauty products. Call today for more information or to schedule a special appointment. See ad, page 14.

JUST WANNA MELT LLC

Misty Rawls • 803-331-0063 Info@JustWannaMelt.com JustWannaMelt.com

A green skin care company that creates high-quality, non-GMO, all-natural products that are gentle to the skin and safer for the

Columbia Edition

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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 11.

INVODRIP VITAMIN BAR

160 Medical Cir, Ste C, W Columbia Book@INVODrip.com 803-830-7212

At INVODrip, we care about your overall wellness. Our goal is to increase your energy levels, help meet your weightloss goals, and ensure you’re well hydrated—not just with water, but also by incorporating the vitamins, minerals and electrolytes your body craves. The absorption rate of our vitamins and minerals surpasses any oral supplements you may have taken. Give us a call today to book your drip now. See ad, page 31.

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 8.

HOLISTIC FOOT CARE ELEVATE FOOTCARE

Geneva Holiday, MSN, WCC, RN-Bc 160 Medical Cir, Ste C, W Columbia ElevateFootCare.com 803-373-2299

Elevate FootCare recognizes the importance of caring for your feet. All services are provided by a board-certified and registered foot care and wound care nurse who cares about the health of your feet. “My goal is to help those with diabetes, thick toe nails, poor circulation, or anyone who is unable to complete the basic maintenance of their feet. We come to your home or you can visit us in West Columbia,” says Geneva Holiday.

SWEET FEET FOOT CARE

Mona Patterson/Master Pedicurist 9153 Two Notch Rd, Ste 11-C, Columbia 803-394-4421 • SweetFeetCare.com

Columbia’s foot care service with a holistic approach. Here at Sweet Feet Foot Care, we focus on Preventive Care, Effective Pedicure Treatments and Cleanliness. With advanced knowledge and skills, we help correct disorders of the feet and lower limbs with pedicure treatments and orthotics. Services are ideal for Diabetics, Seniors and Knee- and Back-Pain Issues. Gel manicures available. Call today to learn more about our services. See ad, page 28.

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 12.

INSPIRED HEALTH

Dana Nairn, MD, FIAHM 3700 Forest Dr, Ste 200, Columbia 803-676-1030

Are you ready to take charge of your health? Dr. Dana Nairn is a fellow of the Academy of Integrative Health and Medicine and board certified in integrative holistic medicine and internal medicine. Dr. Nairn is excited and looking forward to partnering with you on your journey to becoming the best version of yourself. Call today to schedule a consultation! See ad, page 19.

PROHEALTH CENTER

500 Plaza Cir, Ste J, Clinton, SC 864-681-0555 MyProHealthCenter.com

Our integrative approach offers traditional and holistic health and wellness services. We don’t believe in just treating symptoms, but rather getting to the root of the problem. Our practitioners customize patient care through functional medicine specifically tailored to each individual. At our clinic, you are not just a patient number … you become part of our ProHealth Center family. We serve all of South Carolina. See ad, page 5.

LOCAL RETREAT JOY LEE CONNOR, LMT (SC#1229) Healing Minster at Springhill AtONEment Center 803-447-6499

Retreat to the trees! Come and experience 100 beautiful acres near Chapin, South Carolina. Joy Lee Connor invites you to bathe in the forest and “ground” in the peaceful fields of Earth. Breathe in love, heal your mind, and nurture your spirit. We are often overwhelmed by body pains and emotions. Experience mind and body transformation while being loved, forgiven and released. Your energy field will be restored and balanced, allowing you to feel lighter and burdenfree. Joy offers instruction in reiki, Touch for Health, meditation, yoga, meridian movement, and selfcare—both online and in person. Private or small groups are available. Call Joy today!

ORGANIC FARM ASYA’S ORGANIC FARM Sumter, SC 803-463-2968 SCFOrganicFarms.com

Asya’s Organic Farm is owned by young entrepreneur Asya Harris. Harris began working on her parents’ farm at the age of 6. This driven young business woman currently markets herbal teas, supplements and essential oils. Her product lineup also includes gemstones, natural minerals and healing crystals. Products can be purchased online from Etsy @SCFOrganicFarms and on her business Instagram account @Asya_Organic_ Farm. See ad, page 4.

SPIRITUAL ECKANKAR THE PATH OF SPIRITUAL FREEDOM

803-749-2459 • ECK-SC.org Meetup.com/Columbia-spiritual-seekers

Eckankar is the path of spiritual freedom. It is an active, creative practice to help you unlock a deeper level of spirituality. The ECK teachings can help you find answers and give you the tools to prove spiritual truths to yourself while experiencing life as a spiritual adventure. Join us at 10 a.m. every second Sunday at Seven Oaks Park, 200 Leisure Lane, in Columbia. Call Dee at 803-749-2459.

LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS

Justin Williams 803-467-8322 Justin.Williams2@gmail.com

Justin is an intuitive counselor and energy worker. He power cycles, overhauls and unblocks energy fields from afar to remove negativity from your life while jumpstarting your career, relationships, money and general blessings. Justin also provides distance house cleansings to produce a peaceful home and comfortable environment tailormade for abundance and success.

SUSTAINABLE WEDDINGS FLOWERS BY TUPELO GROVE EVENTS

Denyse Croft Nodden 1004 12th St, Cayce 803-730-5096 • TupeloGroveEvents.com

We offer completely local sustainable wedding design options, including: locally grown seasonal flowers, foraged greenery and reusable nonperishables. No plastic is used. Clean up is composted afterward, not trashed. See ad, page 31.

THERMOGRAPHY ABOUT YOUR HEALTH INC

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

O u r m a i n f o c u s is h e a lth 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, page 11.

PALMETTO THERMAL IMAGING

Mobile Thermography Unit Heather Terry, Certified Thermographer 864-681-0555 • 803-924-0813

Thermography is a noninvasive, radiation-FREE and pain-FREE thermal scan of the body. This exclusive technology uses a clinical imaging procedure to create a map of the body’s infrared patterns. It is a valuable tool for alerting your healthcare provider to changes that could indicate early stages of disease. Heather Terry travels to multiple locations in South Carolina. Call today to schedule your session. See ad, page 5.

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, pages 3 and back page.

September 2021

Columbia Edition

ColumbiaNaturalAwakenings.com

Natural Awakenings Columbia Edition 0921

Articles inside

HEALTHY COOKWARE

FORAGED FUNGI FARE

YOGA TO HEAL TRAUMA

ART’S EMBRACE

CREATIVE KIDS

CONQUERING CHRONIC PAIN

HORSES AS HEALERS

ORIGINAL ORIGINS HEALTH AND WELLNESS