Natural Awakenings Lancaster/Berks October 2024

LIFE REALIGNED

Feeling Better with Ergonomics

LIVING A ZERO-WASTE LIFESTYLE

Understanding Pet Insurance

Unlock Relief The Benefits of Spinal Decompression

TAKING THE COLD THERAPY PLUNGE

Whole Body Alignment

CHIROPRACTIC NEW PATIENT

Come

MASSAGE SPECIAL

COMBO SPECIAL

Save

200YTT YOGA TEACHER TRAINING

Commuter Hybrid Program begins July 10th 2025

registration is open now

Start your payment plan TODAY! our yoga alliance accredited program covers:

For nearly 16 years we have provided a professionally instructed teacher training program, dedicated to empowering YOU to practice, understand and teach the 8-fold path of Yoga.

Yoga Ethics

Yoga History

Anatomy

Alignment

Adjustments

Pranayama

Meditation

Basic Sanskrit

Mantra & Chanting

Chakra Science

Bhaghvad Gita

Patanjali Yoga Sutras

Ayurveda Basics

Yoga Psychology

The ashram is true to its promises, delivering a place not only to learn, but to grow. It is an uplifting experience, in a magical setting, and a much needed return to the root of yoga. - G abrielle, 200YTT Graduate

Yin Yoga Gentle Yoga

Chair Yoga

Restorative Yoga

Beginner Yoga Levels 1 & 2

Wall Yoga Basics and SO MUCH MORE!

Scan the QR code to watch our short video and view full program information or visit our website at:

www.kulakamalafoundation.org/200ytt

“An amazingly powerful, soothing, and tender class.” - J.D.

“Melissa showed me how writing connects me with my true self.” - A.B.

Not Only a Writing Workshop...

️Write from the Heart is a retreat where creative souls can laugh, share, learn, and relax without life’s distractions. In an atmosphere of kindness and trust, Melissa’s gentle, non-intimidating classes welcome all levels, including those who have always longed to write, but felt they couldn’t. An antidote to perfectionism and self-doubt, there are no grades, rules, competition or judgment. Sharing is optional. Learn how writing, without fear, grounds us in humanity, connects us with others, and brings joy into our lives.

Nurturing writers... since 2001 www.writefromtheheart.us 717-393-4713 | melissa@writefromtheheart.us

TRANSFORM LIVES

& build a meaningful, fulfilling career in

Our comprehensive certification program equips you with the skills and training to be a successful hypnotist. 2025 DATES: MAY 4-10

• Certification by the American School of Clinical Hypnosis, Int.

• Includes membership in the National Guild of Hypnotists

• CE Credits available for Nurses and CRNAs

Because of Mr. Eslinger the course was excellent. He exceeds every expectation and renews my faith in the profession. He sets the standard, which will be difficult to surpass.~ William S.

Ron is a wonderful instructor and I highly recommend his courses to anyone interested in Hypnosis. I use Ron’s techniques daily to help others. I also use them to help improve my own well-being. I’ve quit smoking, lost over 100 lbs, live a Pain and Stress free life.~ David E.

For agenda, location, course dates and videos:

Healthy Visions Clinical Hypnosis - since 1999

Melissa Greene

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Campbell & Jacqueline Mast

Our biological blueprint lays the template for growth, guiding the navigation of cells and tissues that unfold into the very foundation of life itself. Structure, form and function all evolve as an ongoing part of the whole that becomes Being, bringing the gift of physicality into existence.

The mystery, challenges and sensuality of our bodies are a wonderland of joy, pain, humility and privilege, making up the remarkable vehicle that carries and co-creates with us. It is a direct embodiment through which we develop and learn life, one of the first and most exquisite relationships we have, and one that can teach us the most about nurturing ourselves and the fine art of presence.

This month, we feature holistic bodywork options that incorporate timeless wisdom and intuition into hands-on healing. These approaches soothe, calm and clear, offering simple-yet-effective practices essential to wellness. Our multidimensional selves are well-served by regular attention to the matrix that holds us up, enhancing our understanding of the body’s unique language and logic.

By learning the signs of imbalance and seeking out professionals that offer expert touch, presence and intent, we can create the healing environment necessary for quality rest and repair. Our soft tissues and skeletal system provide direct access to the unseen pathways of our life force—what some call qi or prana—as well as neural circuitry, both powerful and precise systems. Releasing tension in connective tissue and relaxing the physical body are key to optimizing the flow and coordination of these fundamental networks that guide biochemical processes, boost immunity and infuse us with vital energy in each day.

The season at hand naturally teaches us the value of letting go, returning to a place of stillness and reconnecting with the equilibrium activated from within. Gentle stimulation and precisely guided pressure can evoke a rhythm of release, subtle yet powerful, realigning deep internal communication and helping us find our center, again and again.

Here’s to making choices that empower and uplift both our bodies and spirits, supporting the grand human potential to continue connecting heaven and Earth.

Jacqueline Mast and Kendra Campbell, Co-Publishers, Executive Editors

LANCASTER/BERKS EDITION

Co-Publishers/ Kendra Campbell

Executive Editors Jacqueline Mast

Publishing Assistant Kayla Ruppert

Editor Sara Gurgen

Contributing Writers Sheila Julson

Proofreader Randy Kambic

Design & Production Steffi K. Kern

Sales & Marketing Kendra Campbell

Social Media/Website Carolyn Coogan

CONTACT US

Ten Branches Publishing P.O. Box 6274 ∙ Lancaster, PA 17607

Phone: 717-399-3187

Fax: 717-427-1441

Publisher@NALancaster.com NALancaster.com • NABerks.com

Natural Awakenings Lancaster/Berks @NAwakenings @natural_lancasterberks

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Cover image by Mikhail Blavatskiy/ istockphoto.com

NATIONAL TEAM

CEO Kimberly B. Whittle

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CONTACT US

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 350 Main Street, Suite 9B Bedminster, NJ 07921 Ph: 239-206-2000 NaturalAwakenings@KnoWEwell.com

© 2024 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

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.

Natural Awakenings Lancaster/Berks is a faithful steward of global resources and committed to being a part of an environmentally conscious community. We utilize a local printing company and an environmentallyfriendly cold-set web printing process which emits virtually immeasurable VOCs into the environment. This product is 100% recyclable.

Kendra

Savor Dark Delights at The Imperial

Terrace’s Halloween Dinner

Prepare for a night of culinary mystery and eerie tales as The Imperial Event Center hosts its exclusive dinner event, Frightening Fables—An Evening of Dark Delights, at 6 p.m. on October 31. This Halloween-themed gathering, part of the Imperial Dinner Series, offers a unique dining experience that brings the dark origins of Brothers Grimm’s stories to life on the plate.

Guests will be treated to six sinister courses, each inspired by the shadowy tales of the Brothers Grimm. They can choose between a plant-based or omnivorous menu and elevate the evening with expertly curated cocktail and mocktail pairings.

This occasion will take place on the second-floor terrace at The Imperial Event Center, located within the Holiday Inn Lancaster, offering a stunning view of downtown Lancaster to complement the spine-chilling atmosphere.

Cost: $79 (optional upgrades available). Location: 26 E. Chestnut St., Lancaster. For inquiries, contact Special Events Manager Amber Murtoff at AMurtoff@HILancaster.com or text 717-600-4655. For more information, visit TheImperialEventCenter.com/happenings. See ad, page 33.

Discover the Secret to Radiant Skin

at Misty Creek Goat Dairy

Nestled in the heart of Lancaster County, Misty Creek Goat Dairy offers a luxurious line of goat’s milk bar and liquid soaps. Each 3-ounce bar contains more than 1.5 ounces of goat’s milk, combined with saponified oils like olive, coconut, sunflower and palm, along with other wholesome ingredients, ensuring a natural and nourishing cleanse.

Free from artificial ingredients and colorants, the soaps are perfect for those seeking gentle yet effective skincare solutions. Goat’s milk, rich in vitamin A and high in cholesterol and fats, is known for its anti-aging properties and ability to hydrate dry skin. Some have found relief for conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

Misty Creek soaps include unscented options like Milk & Honey, essential oil-infused varieties such as Wonder Aloe and Restful Relaxation, and fragranced favorites like Lovely Lilac and Pumpkin Spice. In addition to soaps, they also offer a wide selection of hard cheeses, caramel sauces and raw goat’s milk for drinking and cooking.

Location: 43 W. Eby Rd., Leola. For more information, call 717-6564628. See ads, pages 33 and 54.

Coming this Fall!

Self-Heal

with Barbara O’Neill

Nov. 6-9 in Lancaster, PA

Discover Pure Essential Oils on the Best Kept Secrets Tour

Inshanti Pure Essential Oils, in Kinzers, will join Lancaster County’s Best Kept Secrets Tour from October 10 to 26, providing visitors a chance to explore local hidden gems and kickstart their holiday shopping.

Embark on a 4-day journey of healing with Naturopath Barbara O’Neill, a world-renowned teacher who combines foundational knowledge about the body’s systems and a deep affinity for the wonders of nature to advance the way we think about health. Additional speakers and a Wellness Market will also be part of this exciting event.

For more info and to purchase tickets, scan the QR code: TwinValleyHealthAndWellness.com/events

Presented by :

2403 Main St, Ste B, Narvon, PA

We educate, encourage, support, and advise our clients to achieve health and wellness holistically!

Services include:

· Acupuncture · Bioenergetic Scans · Emotional Release

EESystem · Far Infrared Sauna · Lymphatic Bodywork · Nutritional Counseling · Rife Therapy · and more

484-262-9020 · TwinValleyHealthAndWellness.com

During the tour, Inshanti will be open 9 a.m to 5 p.m daily, except Sundays, offering a wide array of gifts, including sleep aids, baby kits and pet products. Their selection features pure essential oils, medicinal blends, handcrafted wool dryer balls, soaps, perfumes and the signature Earth Scents diffusers.

The first 30 customers that visit Inshanti and are not part of the tour will receive scratch-off cards for a chance to get 10 percent off their entire purchase (some exclusions apply). Those interested in fully participating in the tour can purchase tickets at Inshanti, which provide access to 44 secret stops, each with unique giveaways, games, gift certificates and more.

Cost: Admission to Inshanti is free. Best Kept Secrets Tour tickets: $12. Location: 48 Slaymaker Hill Rd., Kinzers. For more information, call 717-587-3990, email Debra@Inshanti.com or visit See ads, pages 23 and 48.

Explore Identity and Fashion at Art Show Supporting the LGBT Center

The LGBT Center of Greater Reading will host an art show and fundraiser from 6 to 8 p.m., October 12, featuring the conceptual fashion installation no bias, a visual art series on canvas by Karen Glass. The installation delves into the historical assignment of gender to specific pieces of fashion apparel. The event will raise funds for the center, which provides essential services to the LGBTQ+ community, including counseling, a food pantry and support groups.

Glass, known for her commitment to a zero-waste lifestyle and artistic expression, invites attendees to explore her work, which reflects a journey of self-awareness and the contrasts within ourselves and others. Through her installation, Glass hopes to encourage viewers to embrace acceptance and recognize the ongoing evolution and change within everyone.

The evening will include raffles, refreshments and appetizers, offering a delightful night out while supporting a meaningful cause.

Cost: $50 per person, which includes one free raffle ticket. Location: 640 Centre Ave., Reading. For more information, call 484-513-3170 or email Programs@LGBTCenterOfReading.com or visit LGBTCenterOf Reading.com. Also visit ZeroWasteKarenGlass.com. See ad, page 49.

Karen Glass

Discover a New Era in Health Care at MiddleWay Wellness Open House

MiddleWay Wellness, an innovative direct primary care practice, will open its doors in mid-October, offering a transformative approach to health care in Lancaster. The practice combines conventional, integrative and functional medicine to deliver holistic, personalized care under one roof.

To celebrate their grand opening, MiddleWay Wellness invites the community to Open House events from 5 to 7 p.m. on October 9, October 24 and November 6. The medical providers will present brief talks at 5:15 and 6:15 p.m. about the practice and the benefits of membership. Guests can also enjoy a tour of the office and participate in a Q&A session. Light refreshments will be provided.

With a flat monthly fee, members benefit from direct access to their healthcare providers for routine care; acute and chronic illness management; nutritional guidance; comprehensive health workups; discounted labs and medications; and longer, more meaningful appointments—ushering in a new era of patient-centered care.

Location: 101 Good Dr., Lancaster. For more information, call 717-744-0532, email Hello@MiddleWayWellness.net or visit MiddleWayWellness.net. See ads, pages 11 and 51.

Humane Pennsylvania Launches Affordable Pet Boarding Services

Humane Pennsylvania has introduced affordable pet boarding services at Spike & Tilly’s Pet Resort, with locations in Reading and Lancaster. As Pennsylvania’s first charitable boarding facility, Spike & Tilly’s accommodates all types of pets, including those with special needs, those requiring emergency boarding and police K-9 officers.

“Like our veterinary services, our boarding services are affordable and accessible, [with] flexible options for the most underserved populations,” says Karel Minor, CEO of Humane Pennsylvania.

The facility offers various boarding options: dog day boarding starting at $23 per day, dog overnight boarding at $30 per night, cat day boarding at $12 per day, cat overnight boarding at $15 per night and critter overnight boarding starting at $8 per night. Discounts are available for those facing economic hardships.

Amenities include large suites with outdoor play areas for dogs, spacious accommodations for cats and the option to bring personal items from home. Additional services such as extra walks, cuddle time and daily photo updates are also available.

For more information or to book a stay, visit Humanepa.org/ spike-tillys-pet-resort.

Jane Snyder and Mary Ellen Francescani

Experience

Wellness with Dr. Super’s New Infrared Sauna

Dr.

Dr. Super’s House of Health, in West Lawn, has introduced a state-of-the-art Clearlight Infrared Sauna with Chromotherapy, now available for patient sessions. Unlike traditional saunas, this innovative technology uses infrared heat to penetrate deeply into the body, which is said to aid in promoting detoxification, improving circulation and providing relief from chronic pain while fostering relaxation and stress reduction.

This new service offers a holistic approach to wellness, ideal for those seeking to enhance cardiovascular health, manage chronic conditions or simply unwind. According to Dr. Tabetha Super, “When used regularly, many report relief from chronic pain, stiffness and muscle tension, as well as improved mental relaxation, better sleep quality and a greater sense of well-being.”

Cost: $35 per session or $45 for two people for a 30-minute session. Location: 2209 Quarry Dr., Ste., B21, West Lawn. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 610-601-9011 or visit DrSupersHouseOfHealth.com. See ad, page 47.

Exploring Ketamine-Assisted

‣

‣ Native Meadows

Psychotherapy

Michelle Hudasko, LPC, is now offering Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) at Grey Muzzle Manor. Certified through the Integrative Psychiatry Institute, Hudasko integrates modern psychoanalysis and dream psychology into her psychedelic practice. This innovative therapy, gaining attention for its effectiveness in treating treatment-resistant depression, also shows promise in addressing anxiety, OCD, PTSD, substance abuse, and grief.

KAP works by using ketamine in controlled, therapeutic doses to create a psychedelic-like experience, helping patients achieve significant mental health improvements. Traditionally used in surgeries for anesthesia, ketamine’s role in mental health is a groundbreaking development.

In addition to KAP, Hudasko offers equine-assisted therapy at Grey Muzzle Manor, in Mohrsville; walk-and-talk therapy with clients’ dogs at Psychey, in Doylestown; and ecotherapy at both locations. These unique therapies aim to support mental health in a holistic and compassionate manner.

Cost: $120-$150 out of pocket, some insurance plans accepted, financing available. Locations: Grey Muzzle Manor - 1164 Blattadahl Rd., Mohrsville; Psychey - 39 Iron Hill Rd., Doylestown; Voyage Healing - 3580 Indian Queen Ln., Philadelphia. See ads, pages 14 and 48.

Tabetha Super

Michelle Hudasko

Pasture-Raised GMO-Free Turkeys for Holiday Pre-Order

The Livengood Family Farm has opened pre-ordering for whole fresh turkeys ready in time for a delectable Thanksgiving centerpiece. Ground turkey and half breasts, drumsticks and thighs are available frozen throughout the year.

Livengood’s pasture-raised and GMO-free turkeys are also free of soy, corn, antibiotics and growth hormones. Protected by livestock guardian dogs, they experience a free-ranging habitat which leads to tenderness and exceptional flavor.

Certified organic in the 1990s, the Lancaster County farm is operated by Dwain and Audrey Livengood and their four sons. Dwain says, “While we no longer maintain the certification, we go above and beyond organic certification standards. All our animals are raised outdoors on pasture, and we avoid all insecticides, herbicides and paraciticides. Our focus is on creating soil health, which generates plant and animal health.”

He notes, “We grow fresh, GMO-free produce and raise a variety of pastured livestock, including 100 percent grass-fed Angus beef, pigs, chickens, ducks, sheep and turkeys, all without growth hormones and antibiotics.”

Location: 1648 Morningside Dr., Lancaster. For more information, call 717-327-6817, email Info@LivengoodFamilyFarm.com or visit LivengoodFamilyFarm.com. See ad, page 49.

Complete Two Herbal Courses at Once

Susanna Reppert, of The Rosemary House, is starting a 10-month immersive herbalism course in January 2025. It combines herbal pioneer Rosemary Gladstar’s Science and Art of Herbalism correspondence material with Reppert’s years of herbal experience. All participants will receive Gladstar’s course Practical Herbalism ($375 value), a blend of extensive information and full sensory experience in the classroom and the garden.

A Way of Life Practical Herbalism course teaches not just medicinal herbalism, but dips into gardening, as well as culinary and lifestyle tips with herbs. Reppert is a sixth-generation herbalist, a student of Rosemary Gladstar and a graduate of David Winston’s School of Herbal Therapeutics. “The course is exactly what interested students need to round out their herbal studies. It provides an organized format within which to study herbs, as well as an experienced instructor and supportive community,” says Reppert.

Cost is $1,300 if preregistered by Dec. 1. Location: 120 S. Market St., Mechanicsburg. For more information, call 717-697-5111, email TheRosemaryHouse@aol.com or visit TheRosemaryHouse.com. See ad, page 17.

Take Charge of Hormone Health: PowerHour Live Forum

In honor of World Menopause Day on October 18, NewULife has launched PowerHour.me, a live forum weekdays at 6 p.m. for women to discuss hormone health and menopause with a panel of knowledgeable women. On Mondays, men can join to learn and support the women in their lives.

Gloria Netzer, a NewULife representative, advocates for hormone health and community engagement through education. She promotes SomaDerm, a transdermal gel registered with the Food and Drug Administration as an over-the-counter homeopathic drug, designed to support the endocrine system. According to Netzer, SomaDerm delivers a microdose of bioidentical human growth hormone (HGH), which stimulates the pituitary gland to naturally produce HGH, helping to balance hormone levels.

“Many people don’t realize the extent of the hormone imbalance crisis,” says Netzer. “Over 75 million women in the U.S. alone are navigating perimenopause, menopause or postmenopause, often spending a third of their lives in this phase.” Netzer also encourages women to join the Powher Through Menopause Facebook group for empowerment and connection.

For more information, email LifeBalanced2024@yahoo.com, call 225-704-4339 or visit Gloria.NewULife.com or Menopause411 health.now.site/home. See ad, page 5.

MaryEllen Francescani,

Celebrate Local Flavor and Community at Good Food Fest

SHoliday Spiritual & Holistic Bazaar

outheastern Pennsylvania’s premier food event, the Good Food Fest (GFF), will return to the Kimberton Fairgrounds, in Phoenixville, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on November 3. VIP ticket holders can enter early at 10 a.m. Hosted by Growing Roots Partners, this annual celebration highlights local food, agriculture and community spirit.

Attendees can explore more than 100 local farmers, food producers and artisans, as well as enjoy food trucks; a demo kitchen; and a pouring room featuring local brewers, cideries and distilleries. Live music by Frog Holler Band, children’s activities and live farm animals make the event a fun and educational experience for the entire family.

At the heart of GFF is a mission to support regional agriculture and local food production. Christy Campli, owner of Growing Roots Partners and organizer of the festival, explains, “We’re passionate about local food and supporting our growers and makers. Good Food Fest is a way to celebrate, support and build awareness around the importance of local agriculture.”

The festival’s premier sponsor, family-owned and operated Kimberton Whole Foods (KWF), an organic and local independent grocer, plays a significant role in promoting local agriculture throughout the Greater Philadelphia area. As a pioneer in the organic food movement, the company works with more than 200 regional producers, ensuring that consumers have access to sustainably farmed, high-quality products. “This event serves as an opportunity to educate the community on the wide range of products that are available in our region and gives children and young families the experience of learning where their food comes from,” says Terry Brett, KWF founder and CEO.

GFF offers an immersive experience, allowing festival-goers to meet local growers and producers while enjoying live cooking demonstrations, farm-to-table meals and local brews. It’s a great chance to celebrate local food and learn about sustainable practices that benefit both health and the environment.

Cost: $5 for presale tickets; $10 for general admission; $25 for VIP access with early entry; kids under 12 attend for free. Location: 762 Pike Springs Rd., Phoenixville. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit GoodFarmsGoodFood.com. Also visit KimbertonWholeFoods.com. See ads, pages 15, 52 and back cover.

Ocean Noise Pollution

There are an estimated 33 million boats, including more than 90,000 ships, among the world’s commercial fleets, and most are powered by engines, propellers or other machinery that makes noise. A study published in the journal Science found that the increase in shipping has contributed to an increase in low-frequency sound pollution that can negatively affect fish, invertebrates, marine mammals and birds by impacting foraging, mating and resting.

The sequestration of additional greenhouse gases in the oceans has changed their soundabsorbing capabilities, making them potentially noisier. Other climate changes, such as warmer surface temperatures, changes in salinity due to melting polar ice and more frequent and violent storms, may also contribute to the problem. Additional research is needed to help policymakers implement appropriate countermeasures.

Space Sailing

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has successfully launched a new solar sail propulsion system. Similar to the way a sailboat is powered by wind, solar sails are powered by the pressure of sunlight and offer very low, but constant, acceleration. Made of a flexible composite polymer material reinforced with carbon fiber, this innovation is designed to replace electric and consumable chemical propellants, possibly enabling the use of lighter spacecraft to carry larger payloads or achieve greater speeds. NASA officials predict that future large-scale systems could be used for early-warning space weather satellites, near-Earth asteroid reconnaissance missions or communications relays for crewed exploration missions.

European Union Bans Mercury Dental Fillings

Dental amalgam, a material used to fill cavities caused by tooth decay, is made by mixing a powdered alloy of silver, tin and copper with liquid mercury. The European Union already bans its use for treating children under 15 years old, as well as pregnant or breastfeeding women. New rules adopted by the European Council completely ban the use of dental amalgams for all ages starting in 2025, unless deemed strictly necessary by the dental practitioner to address the specific medical needs of a patient. In this country, the use of dental amalgam is permitted even though the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns that exposure to mercury may pose a greater health risk to pregnant and nursing women, newborns and infants, children younger than 6 and those with neurological disease, impaired kidney function or an allergy to mercury.

Anna Gudimova from Getty Images/Mechanik from Mechanik’s Images/CanvaPro

Toxic Metals Found in Tampons

Cliff from Getty Images/CanvaPro

Tampons are used by the majority of menstruating women. An inaugural study published in Environment International measured the concentration of 16 metals and metalloids (elements that have characteristics of both metals and nonmetals) in 30 tampons from 14 brands and 18 product lines. The researchers detected all 16 metals in at least one sampled tampon, including elevated concentrations of toxic metals such as lead, cadmium and arsenic. Non-organic tampons were higher in lead concentrations, and organic tampons were higher in arsenic. The metals may come from agricultural or manufacturing processes. Additional research is needed to determine whether and to what extent the vagina’s highly absorptive tissue assimilates these metals.

New Blood Test for Alzheimer’s Disease

Diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease currently relies on cognitive exams and the observation of symptoms, followed by a brain scan or spinal tap to look for the buildup of beta-amyloid protein. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association involving more than 1,200 Swedish patients with memory complaints showed promise for a blood test diagnosis, which would be easier and less costly to administer.

Participants received an initial diagnosis by a primary care physician or specialist doctor and then got the blood test—which is developed by C2N Diagnostics (C2ND) and measures the buildup of tau proteins—as well as a confirming brain scan or spinal tap. While the doctors’ initial diagnoses were 61 percent (primary care) and 73 percent (specialist) accurate, the C2ND blood test proved to be 91 percent accurate. Approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is in the works for this and other competing blood tests.

$5 PRESALE TICKETS:

Douglas

Embracing a ZeroWaste Lifestyle

by Karen Glass

In pursuit of a zero-waste lifestyle, a fundamental consideration is assessing how much material is possessed, needed and disposed of. Equally important is understanding the value such a lifestyle offers, not only to individuals, but also as members of a local, global and cosmic community.

Adopting a zero-waste lifestyle can be both a philosophical and practical endeavor. Philosophically, it may involve embracing an ascetic approach that celebrates the personal discipline of simplicity, acquiring only what is needed to live and to help others live in modest comfort. This approach aligns with the adage, first recorded in 1772, “Waste not want not,” underscoring a commitment to minimalism and purposeful living.

Living a zero-waste life hinges on one’s perspective of conservation and preservation, both of which contribute to the conscious practice of reducing consumption and using resources wisely. Everyday habits, particularly those related to food, clothing and home management, are areas where individuals can make meaningful changes. This includes avoiding overbuying food that might go to waste, being mindful of clothing purchases and disposal, conserving water by not letting it run unnecessarily, minimizing waste production and turning off electronics and lights when not in use. These small choices can collectively have a profound impact.

This lifestyle approach fosters mindfulness of the environment and accountability to humanity. By learning to live with fewer, more valuable possessions, individuals dis-

cover that value creation is essential in all aspects of life, whether it’s related to service, personal actions or belongings. For example, reevaluating the use of household care products and the quantity of paper products can lead to substantial reductions in waste. Adopting practices such as living without paper towels or limiting personal care products to fewer than five items at a

submitted photo

Skirt and jacket are made with zerowaste repurposed materials

time are practical steps toward a zero-waste lifestyle.

Both individuals and communities can adopt the practical principles of zerowaste living. Bea Johnson, an activist and author, outlines a number of key principles, including repurposing, resourcefulness, refusal, reduction, recycling (and upcycling) and composting.

1. Repurpose: Utilize existing possessions until they no longer serve a purpose.

2. Be Resourceful: Maximize the value and utility of possessions.

3. Refuse: Resist acquiring unnecessary items and the mindset that drives consumerism.

4. Reduce: Eliminate unnecessary belongings without replacing them, aiming for a simpler, less stressful lifestyle. Pass items forward with purpose, if possible.

5. Recycle: Consider recycling as an extension of repurposing, focusing on properly managing waste.

6. Rot (Compost): Compost organic waste when possible, recognizing that even if local composting is unavailable, reducing food waste and managing natural fibers is beneficial.

Committing to a zero-waste lifestyle holds both personal and far-reaching implications. By consciously adopting such a lifestyle, individuals acknowledge their role in a larger effort to preserve precious and life-sustaining resources. This practice also contributes to conserving actions that renew resources, maintaining a sustainable supply chain. Zero-waste living represents a straightforward approach to the practical economics of life on Earth and within the cosmos.

For more information about zero-waste living, visit ZeroWaste.com, ZeroWasteHome. com/bea and ZeroWasteKarenGlass.com/ about-zerowaste. See ad, page 49.

Cultivating Land Stewards

Horn Farm and Waxwing Ecoworks Launch New Ecological Restoration Certificate

by Sara Gurgen

This winter, the Horn Farm Center (HFC) is launching a new ecological training program aimed at empowering individuals to heal local landscapes and foster a deeper connection with nature. The Ecological Restoration Certificate is designed to provide hands-on learning for those interested in supporting wildlife, restoring habitats and creating resilient natural spaces using innovative, non-chemical methods. Additionally, the Ecological Gardener Training Program, beginning in February 2025, will continue to offer valuable training for those interested in designing and nurturing biodiverse habitats.

At the heart of these initiatives is Elyse Jurgen, of Waxwing Ecoworks, a leader in ecological gardening and land stewardship. Waxwing Ecoworks has partnered with HFC, Lancaster Conservancy and Reviving Wisdom to deliver the ERC, which emphasizes the use of human and plant power over conventional chemicals in conservation practices.

Ecological Restoration Certificate

The Ecological Restoration Certificate (ERC) is a three-day course held on Saturdays beginning in December. This intensive program is ideal for landscape professionals, conservation volunteers, students and landowners seeking practical skills to restore degraded ecosystems. Participants will explore techniques to create resilient habitats that support wildlife and plant diversity. The program takes place on December 14, January 11 and January 25, with weather contingency days to ensure optimal learning conditions in the field.

“These programs are a perfect blend of hands-on learning and ecological theory,” says Andrew Leahy, the program coordinator at HFC. “Our goal is to inspire and educate community members to become confident caretakers of the natural world.”

The ERC equips participants with the knowledge and experience needed to make a positive impact on their local environments, whether on personal properties or in community spaces. It serves as a valuable stepping stone for anyone looking to contribute to broader ecological restoration efforts using sustainable, nonchemical methods.

Ecological Gardener Training Program

The Ecological Gardener Training Program (EGTP), now in its fourth year, offers a 16-week immersive experience for gardeners, landscapers and aspiring land stewards that want to design and nurture biodiverse habitats. Facilitated by Jurgen, participants will learn to create ecologically sustainable gardens that benefit both wildlife and natural ecosystems.

The EGTP covers topics such as native plants, plant communities and landscape patterns that encourage biodiversity. It caters to all experience levels, from seasoned gardeners to those new to ecological land management. Participants will gain the skills to design habitat gardens, manage landscapes sustainably, and deepen their understanding of the role native plants play in ecosystems.

Commitment to Ecological Education

Both the ERC and the EGTP reflect the Horn Farm Center’s ongoing commitment to ecological education and land stewardship. The center has cultivated a reputation for delivering immersive, hands-on training programs designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to make significant contributions to environmental sustainability. In addition to its training programs, HFC also offers an array of single-day and weekend programs that empower community members to build deeper re-

lationships with nature while exploring sustainable ways of living. These include foraging walks, gardening classes, kitchen and craft programs, volunteer workdays, and more. By focusing on practical, actionable techniques, these programs aim to foster a deeper understanding of ecological principles and sustainable practices. Importantly, no prior experience is required for community members to join, making these opportunities open to anyone passionate about preserving and restoring natural landscapes.

Habitat Advocate Classes with Waxwing Ecoworks

In addition to the ERC and EGTP, Waxwing Ecoworks, in collaboration with Lancaster Conservancy, offers Habitat Advocate classes. These sessions focus on teaching participants how to create wildlife-friendly environments in both personal and community spaces. Emphasizing practical skills, the classes provide a valuable opportunity for individuals to enhance biodiversity and contribute to ecological restoration efforts in their own backyards.

Cost: $495 for the ERC; $1,390 for the EGTP (payment plans are available upon request). Space is limited, so interested individuals are encouraged to register as soon as possible. Location: 4945 Horn Rd., York. For more information and to register, visit HornFarmCenter.org/training-programs. For more information about Waxwing Ecoworks and its offerings, visit WaxwingEcoworks.com. See ads, pages 17 and 52.

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The Rise of Bodywork Modalities

Integrating Innovative and Ancient Healing Arts

by Marlaina Donato

Only a few decades ago, healing modalities like chiropractic care and acupuncture received little attention in the realm of conventional medicine. Today, the wellness spectrum is much more diverse, and although additional research is needed to confirm their efficacies and treatment guidelines, many forms of bodywork once associated with only spa pampering are now considered allies in the treatment of a wide array of health conditions. With new therapies emerging annually, there are more than 180 bodywork modalities, including cold laser therapy for non-invasive pain management and ancient massage techniques

Full-Spectrum Acupuncture

According to the market research company Technavio, the global acupuncture market is predicted to expand by $16.83 billion from 2023 to 2027, with much of the growth attributed to an aging population opting for non-invasive, drug-free solutions.

Cancer patients are increasingly accessing this 2,500-year-old therapy, as well. The National Institutes of Health reports that

acupuncture is used to ease the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation at major treatment centers, including MD Anderson Cancer Center, in Houston, and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, in New York, with the latter offering the modality in their accredited continuing education programs. According to a 2023 study published by JAMA Network Open, both integrative acupuncture and massage applications for advanced cancer patients over the course of 26 weeks were associated with decreased pain and improvements in sleep and quality of life.

“Our patients love having one more expert on their integrative medicine team, an additional professional to help them navigate

Mariah Maven/CanvaPro

the rollercoaster stressors of cancer treatment, recovery and survivorship,” says Pauline Sok Yin Hwang, an acupuncturist, registered Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner and the clinical director of Hillgreen Oncology Acupuncture & Herbs, in Toronto, Canada. Hwang also employs other therapeutic elements of Traditional Chinese Medicine that harmonize well with oncology acupuncture, including herbal applications; nutrition; moxibustion, the burning of dried mugwort near parts of the body; cupping; and electroacupuncture, which combines electrical pulses with needles to target specific energetic points on the body.

“Given a prompt, every tiny cell knows where it is and what it should do. The relationship between cells allows them to calibrate, but cancer cells have lost this connection, causing them to proliferate,” explains Jill Blakeway, an acupuncturist and founder of The Yinova Center, in New York City and Long Island. Blakeway adds that acupuncture can also stimulate the nervous system to release serotonin and other endorphins that can dial down pain and elevate mood, something that is much needed by anyone enduring a cancer diagnosis.

Feel-good neurotransmitters are major players in the complex journey of addiction recovery, as spotlighted in a clinical trial published earlier this year in Annals of Internal Medicine. Participants given acupuncture treatments three times a week for eight weeks reduced their methadone dosage by 20 percent or more as compared to subjects that received placebo treatments.

For those that are squeamish about needles, Hwang says, “About 40 tiny acupuncture needles can fit into the hole at the end of a hypo dermic needle,” adding that most of her clients do not experience pain throughout treatment, and they are able to relax and even fall asleep by the end of a session.

Moxibustion—an extension of acupuncture that utilizes an herb called Ai Ye—may be promising for chronic kidney disease as a complementary therapy. A 2020 meta-analysis published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine shows the potential of moxibustion to significantly reduce se rum creatinine, 24-hour urine protein excretion and blood urea nitrogen—all of which are indicators of compromised kidney function—and markedly improve quality of life of chronic kidney disease patients.

Chiropractic Goes High-Tech

With 150 techniques in its toolbox, today’s chiropractic medicine incorporates more sophisticated and gentler methods than ever before, especially for individuals with osteoporosis, a medical condition in which the bones become brittle and fragile from loss of tissue. Fueled by advanced software, modern diagnostic tools give doctors an edge over standard evaluation methods to provide personalized treatment plans.

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The chiropractic use of electric current-based muscle stimulation encourages circulation in muscles along the spine to minimize pain, a technique that is safe for patients with fragile bones or spinal stenosis. Another method—cold laser therapy—springboards from traditional ultrasound using specific wavelengths of light. Also known as low-level laser therapy, cold laser aids injured tissues by amping up the production of adenosine triphosphate, a molecule crucial for energy production within cells, to reduce inflammation and pain and promote healing. A 2021 systematic review published in the Journal of Medicine and Life reports that cold lasers can be effective for decreasing pain and may also improve coexisting emotional factors associated with temporomandibular joint disorders in the jaw.

New Horizons

Tune Your Instrument

As with traditional chiropractic care, the objective of modern styles is to address the root cause of neuromusculoskeletal dysfunction, which, if not treated, can lead to health issues and pain. “When the body is unable to adapt to chemical, physical or emotional stressors, tension within the nervous system is a common result. This often shows up as misaligned vertebrae [bones in the spine], but it can manifest in many ways,” says Brian Stenzler, a chiropractor and author in Sarasota, Florida, and vice president of operations at KnoWEwell, P.B.C. “Every organ, muscle, gland, tissue and cell of the body knows exactly what to do, when to do it and how to do it, as long as the ‘communication lines’ are clear between those body parts and the brain.”

Stenzler notes that because only a small percentage of nerves transmit information about pain, it is unreliable for determining if a chiropractic adjustment is needed. Instead, chiropractors use a combination of objective measures to identify misalignments causing nerve interference, such as posture, x-rays, motion and static palpation, range of motion, heart rate variability, thermography and surface electromyography, which assesses muscle function using electrodes placed on muscle groups.

Swedish and deep tissue massage have long given sore muscles and overextended nervous systems balm, but massage modalities are expanding their scope. Ancient massage systems making their way out of the shadows include Egyptian (Pharaonic), Balinese and gua sha, among others. More traditional approaches are being used to release trauma held in the body and to aid challenging conditions like Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy and cancer. “After a mastectomy, for example, a patient may experience swelling in the arm due to obstructed lymph flow. Specialized massage practitioners can offer lymphatic drainage massage to treat lymphedema, a common side effect of cancer treatment,” says Blakeway.

Tuina, one of the four branches of Traditional Chinese Medicine, is believed to be the oldest form of bodywork and, like acupuncture, targets acupoints, but without the use of needles. In research from 2018, this modality—when combined with other aspects of Chinese medicine—shows promise for early-stage diabetic foot disease, a condition resulting from peripheral artery disease or sensory neuropathy.

Guided by overhead bars for balance and support, practitioners of the Japanese modality ashiatsu primarily use their feet to ease their clients’ tight muscles. “The foot’s broad surface allows for comprehensive

Mariah Maven/CanvaPro

muscle manipulation, targeting larger groups while maintaining precision for specific areas. While we may combine foot and hand techniques for certain areas such as the neck, the primary focus is on harnessing the foot’s unique capabilities for a truly transformative experience,” explains Mariah Maven, a licensed massage therapist, ashiatsu educator and owner of THE SPACE, in Spokane, Washington.

Maven points out that ashiatsu can help stabilize the shoulder while gently stretching the neck, creating an unparalleled sense of traction and release, as well as promote better posture, flexibility and quicker recovery from sports injuries, but cautions that “it is contraindicated for individuals with osteoporosis or osteopenia [reduced bone mass].”

Ortho-Bionomy, pioneered by British osteopath Arthur Lincoln Pauls, has gained attention for its positive effect on pain and postural problems by working with the body’s natural capacity to find balance and reset the nervous system. “Pauls took the osteopathic principle of positional release, gently placing the body in a position of optimal comfort and adding gentle compression into a joint from its position of greatest ease. He found that this stimulated proprioceptor nerve endings [sensors in muscles, tendons and ligaments] and produced a release response,” explains Donna Racik, a certified Ortho-Bionomy practitioner in Leonia, New Jersey, adding that she has found this modality to be effective in relieving pain, restoring alignment and improving the flow of blood and lymph.

Stenzler, who believes that tomorrow looks brighter with the education and guidance of integrative health providers that encourage people to lead healthier lifestyles, says, “While helping people overcome health challenges is very noble and an extremely important aspect of health care, I strongly believe that the future should lie in a salutogenic model,” which focuses on the origins of health and well-being rather than the causes of disease.

Marlaina Donato is an author, artist and composer. Connect at BluefireStudio.art.

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Dr. Melissa Kisla provides:

• Chiropractic Care for the Whole Family

• Prenatal Chiropractic Care (Webster-certified)

• Spinal Decompression

• Cold Laser Therapy

• Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Technique

• Digital Foot Scanning/Custom Orthotics

• Functional Nutrition Counseling

• Massage Therapy

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Spinal Decompression Therapy

for Whole-Body Pain Relief

by Sheila Julson

Consider the spine as the body’s main structural support beam, akin to a building. The spine not only offers support, but also protects the delicate yet crucial spinal cord that sends signals to the rest of the body. When the spine becomes overstressed due to accidents, injuries, repetitive movements, poor posture or arthritis, pain ensues.

Spinal decompression therapy is a chiropractic treatment that gently opens the spaces between the vertebrae—the bones in the back. This significantly reduces the pressure on the nerves that exit from the vertebrae of the spinal cord. The treatment helps reduce pain, inflammation and muscle spasms that shoot into the arms and legs, explains Doctor of Chiropractic Thomas Wachtmann of Link Chiropractic Clinic.

“Sciatica is an example of pain in the legs that originates from the back,” notes Wachtmann. “Spinal decompression therapy is also a great noninvasive treatment for herniated or bulging discs, disc degeneration, stenosis, sciatica, scoliosis and arthritis.”

He says spinal decompression therapy works by gently separating the vertebrae. Techniques and protocols vary

slightly from doctor to doctor, but in general, the therapy gently pulls, relaxes and then pulls again to provide a calming yet effective stretch that takes pressure off the spinal discs and surrounding muscles.

“Gently separating the vertebrae helps to pull disc bulges and herniations back into place, which then helps to relieve pressure from painful nerves,” Wachtmann explains.

Dr. Melissa Kisla of Tri-County Chiropractic uses spinal decompression therapy to treat chronic low back pain and pinched nerves in the neck. In today’s smartphone era, she sees more patients with poor posture, which affects the neck. She has also used spinal decompression therapy to help patients avoid back surgery.

Dr. Johnathan Cavallo of Cavallo Health adds, “Spinal decompression is great for bulged, herniated discs, failed back surgeries and patients who have exhausted all other options.” Many of his patients have found relief from lower back or neck pain through spinal decompression therapy after not responding to traditional treatments.

Methods of Spinal Decompression Therapy

Wachtmann varies the protocol depending on the size of the patient and how much adjusting they can comfortably handle. “I always begin with a gentle adjustment, and then gradually increase the amount of tension of each treatment until we reach a point where the patient is comfortable. That way, they receive the maximum benefit from the treatment, with minimal soreness.”

Kisla uses a computerized table that applies a gentle distractive force to create decompression, which unloads the spine. She says this improves blood flow and increases important nutrient exchange to injured or inflamed areas.

Cavallo uses an advanced spinal decompression table that slowly and gently lengthens the spine, relieving pressure caused by herniated discs or degenerative disc disease. “As this pressure is relieved, circulation improves and vital nutrients are drawn back into the disc. This aids the body’s natural healing process.”

With its ability to relieve pressure on the spine and address a variety of conditions, spinal decompression therapy offers a noninvasive, effective option for patients seeking long-term pain relief. By tailoring treatments to individual needs, practitioners like Wachtmann, Kisla and Cavallo are helping patients regain mobility and improve their quality of life.

Sources: Link Chiropractic Clinic, 3130 Pricetown Rd., Ste. H, Fleetwood, phone 610-944-5000, website LinkChiropractic Clinic.com; Tri-County Chiropractic, 3109 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird in Hand, 990 E. Benjamin Franklin Hwy., Douglassville, and 471 Pequea Ave., Honey Brook, phone 610385-1444, website TriCountyChiropractic OfDouglassville.com; Cavallo Health, 656 E. Main St., New Holland, phone 717-3510631, 11 Green Tree Rd., Quarryville, phone 717-806-5672, website CavalloClinic.com. See ads, pages 21, 23, 27, 47 and 48.

Julson is a freelance writer and regular contributor to Natural Awakenings

Ergonomic Solutions at Work and Play

How Good Posture and Mindful Habits Prevent Injury

by Maya Whitman

Regardless of lifestyle, many people experience everyday aches as they strive to balance work and play. Recurring movements while sitting or standing with bad posture can take a toll on the body. Jobs involving typing, hairstyling, power-tool use or assembly-line tasks, as well as asymmetrical recreational activities such as golf, tennis, bowling, electronic gaming or even playing musical instruments, can amplify the risk for chronic pain.

The American Heart Association reports that 80 percent of all U.S. jobs are mostly sedentary, a problem even without the added burden of too much screen time, poor sitting positions and the long-term effects of repetitive motion. The National Spine Health Foundation offers three recommendations for office workers: be mindful of posture, don’t look down at screens and get up and move around on a regular basis.

The importance of prevention cannot be ignored when we look at the cost of workers’ compensation cases. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021 claims included $4.7 billion for awkward postures and $1.7 billion for repetitive motions involving “microtasks” performed in a matter of seconds or a few minutes, such as typing.

Pressure Points

According to Margie Bissinger, a physical therapist and integrative health coach in Parsippany, New Jersey, one of the most common conditions caused by repetitive movement is carpal tunnel syndrome resulting from pressure on the median nerve, which extends along the hand, arm and shoulder. Symptoms include numbness, tingling and weakness in the thumb and fingers.

“Ergonomics is the design of working environments to help individuals use the best postures and habits that will keep their bodies healthy and avoid injuries,” Bissinger explains, noting that good posture is designed to maintain the inward curve of the lower back. To reduce the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome, pain on the pinkie-finger side of the wrist or other related injuries, she recommends keeping the shoulders relaxed, the wrist in a neutral position, the thumb in line with the forearm and elbows close to the body while typing.

Gamers are prone to tendinitis in the hands and forearms, notes Shari Berkowitz, biomechanist, ergonomist and founder of The Vertical Workshop, in Beverly Hills, California. She remarks that compression in the neck can lead to not only carpal tunnel

Imágenes de Hassel/CanvaPro

syndrome, but also double crush syndrome, a condition associated with compression at more than one location along a nerve path.

“Gamers have a lot of repetition of movement in small joints, as well as holding patterns in the arms, shoulders and spine over a prolonged period. They would benefit from using ergonomic devices that require very little force to press buttons, toggle, etc.,” she advises, adding that players should position themselves to support the entire body, not just the wrists. Whether working or playing, Berkowitz stresses the need to step away from the desk every hour for five minutes to get something to drink, go to the bathroom or just move around.

Bissinger cautions that slouching at the desk or while playing electronic games is a surefire way to set off pain patterns. “You don’t want to be on the couch hunched with your low back rounded,” she says. “You should make sure your neck is looking straight ahead, not up or down, for extended periods of time.”

Exercise Ergonomics

Bad habits in the gym or on the yoga mat can foster chronic pain in the lower back, knees, neck, shoulders and wrists. “Learn about proper joint alignment for whatever exercises you’re doing and then try to achieve that for each movement,” advises Berkowitz. “When a set of muscles that are primary to a movement is fatigued, synergists, or assistant muscles, must work more than they are supposed to. That means strain is going to happen.” She recommends stopping as soon as there is a feeling of muscle fatigue and decreasing the weight and repetitions.

For a well-rounded approach to exercise that aids in preventing issues, Berkowitz suggests mobility training such as Pilates, yoga, tai chi and dance, along with running, walking or strength training. She also suggests replacing backless shoes like flip-flops and slides with ankle-supporting, footforming options such as Flux Footwear.

Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings

Changing Lives Through Caring

Tri-County Chiropractic

Solidifies Presence in Lancaster, Berks and Chester Counties

by Sheila Julson

Dr. Melissa Kisla of Tri-County Chiropractic seems to have been destined to become a doctor of chiropractic. As a child, her parents took her to a chiropractor for monthly health maintenance and whenever she was sick or injured. “Chiropractic care always relieved our symptoms,” she reflects.

Kisla earned a doctor of chiropractic degree from the New York Chiropractic College and has been practicing for 24 years. She founded Tri-County Chiropractic in January 2001, opening the first office in Pottstown. With a goal of serving Lancaster, Berks and Chester counties, TriCounty Chiropractic also had offices in Exton, New Holland and Intercourse over the years.

Today, the primary offices are in Douglassville and Bird in Hand, with a new location set to open in Honey Brook. The new office, Kisla says, will help solidify her goal of maintaining a chiropractic presence in those three counties. In Honey Brook, Kisla and her team will share space

with Michael Arbuckle, DO, with plans for cross-treatment of patients.

Comprehensive Chiropractic Services with a Whole-Person Approach

Kisla’s focus on whole-person wellness motivates her to learn new techniques and integrate lifestyle medicine into her practice. She’s certified in the Webster technique, a chiropractic method used on pregnant women to realign joints and relieve tightness in muscles and ligaments, helping the baby move and turn in the womb. The technique is often used to correct or prevent breech or incorrect positions.

Many pregnant women are referred to Kisla by midwives and obstetricians throughout the region. “Patients come from all over to seek my service for that because it’s very effective,” she says. Kisla notes that the Webster technique has an 82 percent success rate in returning babies to proper positions, often avoiding the need for Caesarian sections.

Dr. Melissa Kisla

Spinal decompression therapy is another service offered at Tri-County Chiropractic. This nonsurgical treatment is used to relieve chronic lower back pain, pinched nerves and disc herniation. Kisla’s patients lie on a computerized table that decompresses the actual vertebrae and discs by gently separating them. “We’ve used it on patients that were about to undergo back surgery and have been able to save them from that,” she says.

The practice also offers digital foot scans for custom orthotic fittings. Unlike storebought inserts that only provide extra cushioning, professional-grade custom orthotics help correct foot positioning to improve overall balance. “If a patient is off-balance, the scan will detect if their feet are flat or if they have too high of an arch. Support from orthotics can make a nightand-day difference in patients with lower back pain. This is all part of our wholeperson approach.”

Cold laser therapy is another option at TriCounty Chiropractic. This technique uses precision low-intensity light on injured or inflamed tissue to improve blood flow and reduce pain and inflammation. Kisla says it can be effective in treating shoulder, hip and knee issues.

In addition to these treatments, Kisla’s whole-person approach includes lifestyle and nutritional counseling, along with massage therapy. “If a patient comes in with neck pain or lower back pain, there could be other contributing factors to those conditions. We want to look at the big picture by addressing nutritional needs, biomechanical needs and emotional needs. We take our time to speak with patients to thoroughly find out what’s going on in their lives.”

Massage and physical therapy modalities are incorporated into each visit to help patients relax and prepare for optimal chiropractic outcomes. Kisla stays inspired by the success stories of her patients’ recoveries under her care.

“It is emotionally gratifying and exciting to see the progress in my patients,” she concludes.

Tri-County Chiropractic is located at 3109 Old Philadelphia Pike, in Bird in Hand; 990 E. Benjamin Franklin Hwy., in Douglassville; and 471 Pequea Ave., in Honey Brook. For more information, call 610-385-1444 or visit TriCountyChiropracticOfDouglassville. com. See ads, pages 23 and 48.

Sheila Julson is a freelance writer and regular contributor to Natural Awakenings.

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Taking the Cold-Therapy Plunge

From Icy Showers to Cryotherapy Chambers

by Madiha Saeed, M.D.

Stress gets a bad reputation, but some forms can be quite beneficial. Hormesis, a self-imposed stress to the body, teaches it to become resilient. Cold therapy is a popular method used by athletes, biohackers and others looking to optimize their performance and physical health.

According to Molly Maloof, a concierge physician, biohacker and consultant to more than 50 companies, there are several types of cold therapy, including a cold shower or cold plunge in 50 to 59°F water; an ice bath in water that is 41 to 50°F; and cryotherapy, which exposes the body to extremely cold air (-166 to -220°F) in a specialized chamber. Maloof notes, “Women may not need as cold a plunge as men because women shiver at higher temperatures and are more sensitive to cold.”

Benefits of Cold Therapy

According to Tom Moorcroft, a boardcertified physician specializing in chronic, tick-borne illnesses, “People with chronic inflammatory conditions generally do really well [with cold therapies], both from a perspective of lowering inflammation and dealing with the stress of chronic illness. Patients with chronic, tick-borne infections typically report less pain and inflammation, improved energy and better overall quality of life with even a short 60- to 90-second cold shower daily. A cold plunge three to four times a week improves symptoms even more.”

Maloof notes the following benefits:

• Hormonal Effects: Cold therapy can increase production of norepinephrine

and endorphins, which may help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.

• Metabolism and Weight Management: Cold exposure activates brown adipose tissue (BAT), increasing calorie burn. Women typically have more BAT than men, potentially making cold therapy more effective for a metabolic boost.

• Inflammation and Recovery: Cold-water immersion can be beneficial post-exercise to reduce inflammation and muscle soreness. While men’s bodies naturally redirect blood flow after a workout, women’s bodies tend to keep blood in the skin. A cold plunge can help women push that blood back to the muscles, aiding recovery. This benefit may be particularly useful for those experiencing inflammation during certain phases of their menstrual cycle.

• Immune System: Regular cold therapy may strengthen the immune system, and the effects may be more pronounced in men than women due to differences in responses to stimuli.

• Skin Health: Cold therapy, especially plunging the face into a bowl of ice water, can improve skin tone and reduce puffiness by constricting blood vessels.

• Fertility and Reproductive Health: Cold therapy might improve fertility in women by reducing inflammation and balancing hormones, but more studies are needed.

• Cardiovascular Health: Cold exposure can improve cardiovascular health by enhancing circulation. This benefit is important for women, as they have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease after menopause.

Contraindications

Moorcroft states that common side effects of cold therapies include cold skin, temporary dizziness, lightheadedness or headache, an increase in blood pressure and, rarely, frostbite or skin rash. According to both Maloof and Moorcroft, cold therapies are contraindicated for patients with uncontrolled hypertension, an inability to sense the extremities, an allergy

Robert Pavsic from Getty Images/CanvaPro

to cold, Raynaud’s disease, pregnancy, open wounds, skin infections or recent surgery.

Cold therapy might also be inadvisable for people with eating disorders, as it can exacerbate a disordered metabolism. Cryotherapy is not recommended for those with cardiovascular conditions, stroke history, claustrophobia, severe anxiety disorders, deep vein thrombosis or serious respiratory problems. Cold plunges or ice baths are not recommended for those with epilepsy, diabetes or hypothyroidism.

Tips for Taking the Plunge

Maloof recommends beginning with cool showers and slowly decreasing the temperature for brief periods. Her other recommendations for safely experiencing the benefits of cold therapies include:

• Start cold plunges for short durations of 30 seconds to two minutes.

• Limit cold-water immersion to below the shoulders or neck.

• Keep immersion times to two rounds of 30 seconds with two minutes in-between

at the lowest temperatures, and a maximum of six rounds of three minutes with two minutes in-between at the highest immersion temperatures.

• Listen to the body and do not push beyond a level that is comfortable. Remember that women are more sensitive to cold.

• Warm up properly afterward by having warm, dry clothes ready.

• Stay hydrated with water before and after a cold therapy session.

• A cool shower before bed may help with sleep, especially for menopausal women.

“[Cold showers] are more accessible, and more people I work with are likely to start with these than a cold plunge or a cold chamber,” says Moorcroft. “Personally, I prefer a cold plunge by a long shot. It’s a more Zen and focusing experience.”

Madiha Saeed is a holistic, functional and integrative doctor in Naperville, Illinois, and director of education for Documenting Hope and KnoWEwell.

Sweet Nostalgia

Celebrating National Dessert Month

by Deborah Bevilacqua

Many of us have beloved memories filled with the treasures of the family kitchen—the clanging of baking pans and metal mixing bowls, flour dusted across the counter and the amazing aromas of chocolate, vanilla and cinnamon filling the entire house. That wonderful anticipation of a homemade treat coming out of the oven was pure childhood magic.

“There is nothing better than the smell of home-baked goodies,” says Lynn Feder, owner of Lynn’s Life Breads, an allergenfree bakery. Infused with the best ingredients and dollops of love, desserts are more than just a tasty indulgence. They celebrate long-held family recipes, cultural traditions and the transformative effect of shared pleasures. October is National Dessert Month, a perfect time to explore the history, nostalgia and nutritional gifts of these delicious delights.

From Ancient Times to Modern Bites

Desserts have evolved from simple combinations of fruits and nuts to elaborate confections. The Egyptians, Greeks and Romans enjoyed honey-sweetened treats. By the 16th century, sugar had made its way to Europe from Southeast Asia, paving the way for decadent cakes and pastries. Today, each culture brings unique flavors and techniques to homes, bakeries and confectioneries around the globe.

American Favorites

Beloved for its chewy texture and rich flavor, the chocolate chip cookie was invented in 1938 by Ruth Wakefield, a chef, dietitian, educator and author from Walpole, Massachusetts, who also owned a tourist lodge with her husband, Kenneth, that they named the Tollhouse Inn.

Brownies originated in Chicago in 1893 at the Palmer House Hotel, where Bertha Palmer asked her chefs to create a portable dessert that could be served at the World’s Columbian Exposition. These cake-like, fudgy squares may contain nuts, chocolate chips or caramel swirls.

Apple pie is synonymous with American culture. With its flaky crust and sweet, spiced filling, it evokes a sense of nostalgia and comfort, and is often accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream. In today’s health-conscious households, ice cream is not made with just cow’s milk. Scrumptious varieties are available featuring milks derived from cashews, oats or coconuts.

“The best ice cream is made from scratch in small batches with fresh, farm-to-table ingredients,” says Chloe Bowman, manager of Tin Cup Ice Cream & Desserts, in Crested Butte, Colorado. “One of our adult favorites is Cookie Monster ice cream made with homemade chocolate chip cookies and all-natural pea flour so it doesn’t make your mouth blue.”

While attempting to recreate a French version, William Lawrence, a New York dairyman, invented the now-classic New York-style cheesecake. It features smooth, rich cream cheese and a graham cracker crust that can be customized with various toppings.

The Sweet Benefits of Desserts

Aside from satisfying our sweet tooth, some desserts come with nutritious benefits. Dark chocolate contains flavanols that help lower blood pressure and fight cell damage, as well as polyphenols that, according to a 2022 study published in The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, help maintain a better mood. Fruits and nuts are packed with vitamins, minerals and fiber, which play an important role in lowering the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Indulging in a sweet treat may even lead to a sweeter disposition, according to research led by North Dakota State University.

Scukrov/CanvaPro

Healthy Alternatives

Dessert time is not always kind to people that are diabetic, vegan, on restricted diets or have gluten sensitivities or allergies to ingredients like eggs, diary and nuts. “I can adapt any recipe to make it delicious and allergy-free. Today, we have so many options,” says Feder, who began baking allergen-free products as a result of her own health issues and allergies.

Dairy substitutes are plentiful in the grocery store, including milk made from oats, almonds, soy, coconut and rice. Alternatives to butter include nut butters, sunflower oil and coconut oil. For those with nut allergies, the texture, taste and nutritional value can be supplanted with rolled oats, granola, crisp rice cereal, pumpkin or sunflower seeds, dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries, or dairyand nut-free chocolate chips.

For those looking to reduce their consumption of sugar, there are a number of healthier natural sweeteners, including monk fruit extract, raw honey, pure maple syrup, coconut sugar, stevia and blackstrap molasses. Stevia and monk fruit extract are derived from plants and have a flavor very similar to regular sugar. A quick search online will provide guidance on measurement equivalents. Monk fruit, which does not raise blood-sugar levels, can be up to 250 times sweeter than sugar.

Celebrating National Dessert Month

To celebrate National Dessert Month, consider hosting a dessert-themed party where invitees can share their favorite recipes, and be sure to include low-sugar, vegan and gluten-free options, to accommodate everyone’s preferences and dietary restrictions.

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IMPERIAL DINNER SERIES: FRIGHTENING FABLES

AN EVENING OF DARK DELIGHTS EXCLUSIVE EVENT!

Date/Time Thursday, October 31, 2024, 6-8 pm

Location The Imperial Terrace (Second fl oor at The Imperial Event Center) 26 E. Chestnut Street, Downtown Lancaster, PA

Grim tales come to life on your plate with 6 sinister courses! Reservations required—Dinner party tickets are pre-order. Ticket sales end 10/24 at 11:59am.

View the deliciously dark details—purchase your tickets now, scan the QR code!

For inquiries contact our Special Events Manager, Amber, via email at amurtoff@hilancaster.com or by text at 717-600-4655. theimperialeventcenter.com/happenings

BASE

1¾ cups raw almonds

8 dates, pitted

FILLING

3 cups raw cashews

1 cup coconut milk or almond milk

¾ cup maple syrup

2 Tbsp lemon juice

1 15-oz can of pumpkin puree (or equivalent of fresh-cooked mashed pumpkin)

1 tsp vanilla extract

⅛ tsp Himalayan salt

2 Tbsp vanilla extract

1 tsp ground cinnamon

¼ to ½ tsp nutmeg, to taste

¼ tsp ground ginger

¼ tsp cloves

½ tsp Himalayan salt

1 cup melted coconut oil

For the base, soak the dates in boiling water for 2 minutes. Remove dates from water and put in food processor with salt, almonds and vanilla, and blend until the nuts are broken down into small pieces and the mixture is sticky when pressed between fingertips.

Line a springform pan with parchment paper. Gently hand-press the pie crust onto the bottom and sides of the pan. Set aside.

For the filling, soak cashews in water overnight or cover cashews with boiling water and allow to soak for 2 hours. Strain the soaked cashews and add them with the other filling ingredients except the coconut oil to a food processor. Blend for 5 minutes until smooth and creamy. Then add the melted coconut oil and blend until well incorporated into the mixture.

Pour filling into pie crust. Set in freezer for 2 or more hours until the center is solid.

Remove and refrigerate for a few hours until it thaws before serving.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Lynn Feder.

Courtesy of Lynn Feder

YIELD: 12 CUPCAKES

STRAWBERRY LAYER

3 large fresh strawberries, quartered

1 Tbsp maple syrup or honey

1 Tbsp lemon juice

CARAMEL LAYER

¼ cup smooth cashew or almond butter

¼ cup maple syrup

BROWNIE MIXTURE

2 Hu brand chocolate bars (choice of hazelnut, cashew, almond or cashew raspberry)

1 cup smooth cashew butter

1 large egg

Preheat oven to 350° F.

1 date, pitted

2 Tbsp coconut oil, melted

1 tsp gluten-free vanilla extract

½ cup maple syrup

¼ cup cocoa powder

½ tsp baking soda

¼ tsp Himalayan salt

½ cup mini chocolate chips, plus extras to sprinkle on top

Prepare the strawberry layer by combining the strawberries, maple syrup or honey, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from stove and pour off the liquid, retaining the strawberries. Place the strawberries in the refrigerator to cool while preparing the other layers.

To make the caramel layer, first soak the date in boiling water for 2 minutes, then cut it into small pieces and drop them in a blender along with the other ingredients, blending for 40 seconds until the mixture is smooth. Set aside.

Place the brownie mixture ingredients in a bowl, except the chocolate chips and Hu chocolate bars. Blend using an electric, hand-held mixer. Once combined into a batter, fold in the chocolate chips.

Line a 12-cupcake baking tray with unbleached paper liners. Put one heaping tablespoon of the brownie mixture in each cupcake liner to coat the bottom. Break Hu chocolate bars into squares and place one square on top of the brownie mixture. Spread one teaspoon of caramel sauce on top of the chocolate. Add strawberries to the caramel layer. Top with additional brownie mixture until the liner is three quarters full. Sprinkle with a few mini chocolate chips.

Bake cupcakes for 20 minutes. Remove and place on a cooling rack. They are delicious at room temperature, cold from the refrigerator or frozen.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Lynn Feder.

Courtesy of Lynn Feder

The Case for Cloth Diapers

Saving Money and the Environment

by Kelcie Ottoes

Disposable diapers hit the shelves in 1948 and have become a household staple. The International Market Analysis Research and Consulting Group estimates that 28.8 billion diapers were sold in 2023 in the United States. Parents concerned with environmental, monetary and other associated costs of disposables are moving back to cloth diapering.

“Both my husband’s mom and my mom mentioned that they cloth-diapered. They said it was really no big deal. Cloth diapers used to be the norm just a few generations ago,” says Kate Sawyer, a water and wastewater professional in Durango, Colorado.

Health Benefits

Babies are more susceptible to harmful chemicals due to their thinner, more permeable skin. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission does not require diaper manufacturers to test their products for toxins other than lead. A 2019 study published by the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety tested 23 bestselling disposable diapers and found toxic substances, including volatile organic compounds like naphthalene, styrene, toluene, chlorobenzene, phthalates, formaldehyde, pesticides and dioxins. A 2000 study published in the journal Archives of Disease in Childhood

showed that boys exhibited a higher scrotal temperature when wearing disposable diapers than cotton varieties, posing possible fertility issues in later life.

Cloth diapers are made of natural, breathable materials such as cotton, bamboo or hemp, which generally do not contain perfumes, polyacrylate (a super-absorbant polymer) or chlorine that can strip away protective bacteria, causing a baby’s skin to become dry and irritated. Look for organic versions free of toxins from the farm and factory.

Unlike disposables designed to absorb moisture quickly and keep it away from the skin, cloth diapers need to be changed as soon as they are wet or soiled, and the baby’s bottom must be cleaned well and allowed to dry before applying a fresh diaper.

Toddlers wearing cloth diapers can feel the wet sensation against their skin and are more aware of when they have relieved themselves, making potty training easier. According to an article in Parenting Science, approximately 60 percent of American children in 1947 were potty trained by 18 months old, whereas the average age rose to 37 months by 2004, in part due to the use of disposable diapers, researchers believe.

When washing cloth diapers, follow the manufacturers’ instructions, use recommended amounts of detergent, run an extra rinse cycle to thoroughly remove all the soap, and avoid fabric softeners or dryer sheets, as they can be irritants. Responding to parents that don’t want to deal with the messiness of cloth diapers, Sawyer says, “No matter what, you’re going to deal with poop as a parent. Using cloth diapers actually gives you a process to deal with poop, so when a blowout happens—cloth diaper or not—you can deal with it quickly and efficiently.”

A Cleaner Option

Each year, 3.6 million tons of disposable diapers are sent to landfills. The American Academy of Pediatrics estimates that a child will require up to 3,000 diapers in the first

Zuzule from Getty Images/CanvaPro

year, and about 8,000 by the time they’re potty-trained. Most disposable diapers are made of cellulose, polypropylene, polyethylene and absorbent polymers that take up to 500 years to break down. The fecal contents can also leach into groundwater.

Parents that use cloth tend to buy between 20 and 40 diapers, which can last up to 400 washes if they’re well maintained and can be repurposed into dust rags to extend their life. Although they usually do not pile up in landfills, cloth diapers still pose some environmental concerns. Hot water and energy are needed to wash and dry them. Cotton is also a chemically dependent crop, but when regenerative organic principles are employed, the cotton-growing process conserves water, protects biodiversity and avoids toxic fertilizers and herbicides.

Cheaper in the Long Run

The average cost of one disposable diaper is 29 cents; cloth diapers are about $2 to $21 each. “It can be expensive to get started [with cloth diapers], but the long-run savings more than make up for the up-front costs,” says Leah Black, a mom and founder of Cheeks Ahoy, a reusable baby-wipe company in Canada. “You don’t have to buy all brand-new stuff. Well-made cloth diapers will last much longer than your child’s diapering stage, so there is nothing wrong with looking for gently used cloth diapers.”

A Flexible Approach

Families that want the benefits of cloth diapering do not have to make it an all-or-nothing decision. Many use disposable diapers when a newborn first comes home, because they require so many changes at that time, and then switch to cloth diapers once the child is a few weeks old. Some parents choose to use cloth diapers only during the day and avoid fuss by using disposables at night when they are tired and trying to get back to sleep. Others go with cloth diapers at home and disposables when they are out, so they aren’t carrying around soiled diapers at the grocery store or park.

Kelcie Ottoes is a frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings.

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Financial Planning for Pet Illnesses

How Pet Insurance Can Help

by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN

A& Lab 1352 Harrisburg Pike · Lancaster (next to Brimmer’s)

lthough approximately 82 million U.S. households own a pet, only a small fraction—around 5.4 million—were insured by the end of 2023. A 2018 survey by the Access to Veterinary Care Coalition found that 28 percent of American pet owners encountered barriers to pet care in the past two years, primarily due to financial constraints.

Pet insurance can provide crucial financial support during unexpected emergencies or costly treatments, but deciding whether to invest isn’t always simple. Some pet owners are hesitant due to concerns about cost, policy complexity or the belief that insurance might not be necessary. However, many that do opt for insurance report significant benefits.

Eases Financial Worries

One of the most significant benefits of pet insurance is the peace of mind it provides, allowing families to focus on their pet’s health without constantly worrying about the financial implications. Patrons of Trupanion Pet Insurance have noted how insurance has made managing their pet’s health care easier because they have to meet the deductible only once per new condition, after which 90 percent of the costs are covered. Trupanion also covers alternative treatments like acupuncture.

Simplifies Decision-Making

AKC Pet Insurance covers preexisting

conditions after 365 days—a crucial factor when a pet has medical problems at the time of adoption. If a pet later develops a related ailment that requires costly testing, the insurance will cover these costs, allowing a pet owner to make the best decision for their pet without financial constraints.

Promotes Preventive Care

Many insurance plans, like those offered by Pets Best, include coverage for preventive care such as check-ups, vaccinations and wellness visits, which encourages pet owners to maintain regular veterinary visits. By catching potential health issues early, pet owners can avoid more costly treatments down the road, ensuring that their pets live healthier lives.

Yana Tikhonova from

Reduces the Burden of High-Cost Treatments

Facing a high-cost treatment can be daunting, and in such cases, an insurance company that provides this level of coverage can be a lifesaver, enabling pet owners to provide the necessary care without the fear of financial ruin. A study published in Animals found that pet health insurance significantly increased the amount spent at the veterinarian, with insured dog owners spending an average of $211 more on veterinary care compared to those without insurance. While extra spending appears to be an argument against the value of pet insurance, the study’s authors present it as a positive, noting that as pet insurance alleviates owners’ financial stress, it encourages them to invest more in their pet’s health care.

Saves Lives

The financial strain of veterinary care can often lead to emotional distress for pet owners, particularly when they are forced to make difficult decisions in an emergency. A 2020 study published in Frontiers of Veterinary Science showed that insured dogs had a significantly lower pre-surgical euthanasia rate (10 percent) compared to non-insured dogs (37 percent). This suggests that pet insurance allows owners to choose lifesaving treatments rather than face the heartbreaking decision of euthanasia due to financial constraints.

Pet Insurance Shopping Guidelines

• Preexisting Conditions: Most pet insurance policies do not cover preexisting conditions. To ensure coverage, enroll a pet in an insurance plan before any significant health issues arise.

• Waiting Periods: Many pet insurance plans include waiting periods before coverage begins, during which illness or injury may not be covered.

• Coverage Limits: Pet insurance policies vary in their coverage limits, including annual, per-incident or lifetime caps. Review these provisions carefully to understand the maximum amount the insurance will pay in different scenarios.

• Deductibles and Reimbursement Levels: Policies differ in how they handle deductibles and reimbursement levels. Some may have higher deductibles but offer higher reimbursement rates. Choose a plan that fits both the budget and healthcare needs.

• Alternative and Holistic Care: Not all plans include coverage for holistic treatments like acupuncture and chiropractic care, so the selected policy should align with the owner’s preferences.

• Understanding Exclusions: Some insurance plans may exclude services for

routine wellness care, dental cleanings or certain hereditary conditions. Understanding these exclusions can prevent unpleasant surprises when filing a claim.

• Plan Flexibility: Some insurance providers offer customizable plans, allowing pet owners to choose their deductible, coverage limits and options. While this flexibility can be beneficial, it requires careful consideration to ensure the best value for the money.

Deciding whether to invest in pet insurance is a personal choice that should align with the owner’s financial planning, the pet’s health and the priorities set for their pet’s care. Pet insurance can be a useful tool for managing veterinary expenses, offering peace of mind when unexpected medical issues arise.

Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian and holistic health coach for pets, as well as the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.

OCTOBER

ONLINE EXCLUSIVES >>

Find additional articles and videos at NALancaster.com or NABerks.com. Go to the home page and click on the “In This Issue” image in the top carousel or in the right column.

Eco Tip

SMASHING PUMPKINS

Carol Orsborn

on Growing Whole, Not Just Old

by Sandra Yeyati

For five decades, Carol Orsborn has been a leading voice of her generation and a bestselling author, having written 36 books on quality of life, spirituality and aging. Her latest book is Spiritual Aging: Weekly Reflections for Embracing Life, to be published in December. Designed to be read weekly over two years with 120 readings, it focuses on the issues and concerns that arise among those that view aging as a path to spiritual transcendence.

Orsborn earned a master’s degree in theological studies and a doctorate in history and critical theory of religion from Vanderbilt University, completing her postgraduate work in spiritual counseling at the New Seminary, in New York City. She served on the faculties of Pepperdine University, in Malibu, California; Loyola Marymount University, in Los Angeles; and Georgetown University, in Washington, D.C. She has appeared on Oprah, NBC Nightly News and The Today Show, and presented talks at the Omega Institute, American Society of Aging and Vanderbilt University Hospital.

What do we get wrong about aging?

There have been two dominant theories about aging that have influenced the stereotypes, and each one gets aging wrong in its own way. The first is that aging is a period of sad, slow decline and the best you can do is try and put old people behind gated communities and facilities and keep them as happy as possible.

The flip side, which has been holding sway and is just as insidious, is called “activity theory”. It keeps older people active—the more active they are, the longer they are active,

the better it supposedly is. So, we say things like “60 is the new 30” as we try to extend midlife, turning us into desperate robots.

What is a better way to look at aging?

Getting old is a life stage with meaning and purpose of its own. You have the freedom to choose how you want to live your life. Sometimes you may want to be contemplative, quiet and take time away from the limelight. Other times, you may want to roar like a lion; you might have a lot left in you that you want to give.

How do you define spiritual aging?

The first tenet of spiritual aging is accepting reality as it is while believing that there is meaning and purpose to life. The second is loving yourself no matter what. Spiritual aging treats the process of getting old not as a problem to be solved, but rather as a spiritual experience in and of itself. This is your last chance to embrace all of life and to have the freedom to pick what you want to do because your soul is telling you to do it.

Carol Orsborn courtesy of Carol Orsborn

As we confront physical and mental diminishment, what role does grief play in this spiritual experience?

Grief can shake you from your faith. You can hit bottom a lot of ways and feel that life is meaningless and hopeless. In my book, I talk about a place I call “the void”, where reality outstrips your ability to cope and you go to a place that feels bottomless, dark, scary and hopeless. Every spiritual and religious formulation that I’ve ever read has a place like that—like the dark night of the soul in Christianity—where the status quo loses hold of you, and yet it also seems like a holy place because it allows you to let go of the illusions and what used to be, and to reconstruct yourself from the ground up in a way that is more in alignment with reality.

Is it never too late to find your purpose in life?

Of course not. In fact, I would say the opposite. It takes growing old to finally be able to live with some degree of purity of purpose, because you’re not going to be as distracted by what society’s expectations are of you. For those with physical and mental impairments, there is an opportunity to find meaning and purpose not only despite those challenges, but through them. If you’re taking a walk and you’re going much slower than you’re used to, you’re much more likely to notice the flower growing out of a crack in the sidewalk, for instance.

Our generation has been told all our lives that we should follow our heart and passion. That was hard when we were in our 40s because if you followed your heart and you wanted to be a poet, you couldn’t make a living at it. But now in your 70s, 80s or 90s, if you want to be a poet, go for it! There’s a lot of late-life blooming going on, tempered by what our hearts are telling us and by our physical and mental abilities. That’s what the reinventing should be about.

As we age, we become increasingly dependent on others. What are the spiritual lessons there?

We don’t receive well. The tendency in older people is to complain or get mad at their caregivers if they aren’t giving to us perfectly. So it’s about learning to receive, but also learning to be gracious and put other people before yourself—allowing your caregiver to feel good about what they’re doing for you.

Look, the bottom line is learning to love and be loved. I keep learning every day. I have family issues that may never resolve, but I’m learning I’m beloved anyway. I’m seeing love where I didn’t see it before. I’m having compassion where I didn’t see it before. At 76, suddenly I see things with so much depth that I see the love that was there all along.

Sandra Yeyati is national editor of Natural Awakenings.

To read a longer version of this conversation, visit online at Tinyurl.com/OrsbornWW or scan the QR code.

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NOTE: To share your events and classes in our calendar, please visit our websites NABerks.com or NALancaster.com for guidelines and a submission link. Deadline: 5th of the month prior.

Visit our online calendar where you can find updated event and class information and share your events for free.

Thursday, October 3

Cooking Class: Oktoberfest – 5:30-8:30pm. Ages 21+. Dive into traditional Bavarian delights that will perfectly complement a stein of cold, refreshing beer. Hands on. BYOB. $95pp. Zest Cooking School, 1180 Erbs Quarry Rd, Lititz. 717-435-8890. Zest Chef.com.

Friday, October 4

Yoga With the Beatles – 6-7:30pm. Celebrate John Lennon’s birthday with a special beginner-friendly yoga class paired with your favorite Beatles songs. Enjoy this musical journey that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired. $20. The Yoga Place, 9 Hahnstown Rd, Ephrata. 717-336-5299. TheYogaPlaceInEphrata.com.

Saturday, October 5

Well-Being Program for Children 7-9 Years – 9:30-10:30am. Children will learn to understand their emotions, feelings and actions through stories and discussions. Working in groups, they will create their own story of discovery. Class will end with affirmation art to memorialize what was learned. $40/child. Bldg 7 Yoga, 220 N Park Rd, Wyomissing. 484-755-5705. Bldg7Yoga.com.

Fall Open House at Embodied Wisdom – 10am-12pm. Explore the space, meet the team and sign-up for 30-minute complimentary classes: Qigong with Jason at 10am; Yoga Nidra with Sara at 10:45am, Guided Meditation with Rafael at 11:30am. Free. Embodied Wisdom Institute, 845 Silver Spring Plaza, Suite B, Lancaster. Embodied WisdomInstitute.com/class-schedule.

Fall Open House at Embodied Wisdom Institute – 10am-12pm. Discover what’s new and exciting as you explore our space, meet our team, and participate in one of our complimentary classes. Free. Embodied Wisdom Institute, 845 Silver Spring Plaza, Ste B, Lancaster. 717-219-7163. Embodied WisdomInstitute.com.

Holistic Market Days – 10am-5pm. A collective of vendors, practitioners and many other artisans looking to share in all things holistic – herbal remedies, crystals, smudging tools and more. Free. Harner’s Herbals at Leesport Farmer’s Market, 312 Gernants Church Rd, Leesport. 610-310-7971. Harners Herbals.square.site.

Cookbook Swap, Open House and Brunch – 11am-1pm. Exchange ideas, explore new recipes, and connect with fellow foodies. Bring gently used cookbooks to swap with others and discover new flavors and cooking styles. Snacks, baked goods, delicious coffee and goodie bags included. $15. Zest Cooking School, 1180 Erbs Quarry Rd, Lititz. 717-435-8890. ZestChef.com.

Take Heart Fall Fest – 3:30-5pm. Join us for Take Heart Counseling’s fall themed open house. Meet our herd and team, ride a tractor, watch an equine therapy demo, and enjoy the ranch. Free. Take Heart Counseling, 699 Wooltown Rd, Wernersville. 717917-7137. TakeHeartCounseling.com.

4-Week Mindful Practices Group for Teens – 4-5pm. Tailored specifically for teenagers, this program offers a holistic approach to well-being through mindfulness, breathwork, and movement. $60 for four sessions. Embodied Wisdom Institute, 845 Silver Spring Plaza, Ste B, Lancaster. 717219-7163. EmbodiedWisdomInstitute.com.

Meditation for Chronic Pain – 5-6pm. (also, Sat, Oct 12). Offered by Helene Williams, this two-part, evidence-based meditation course teaches practical tools to assist with pain management in a welcoming environment with space for questions and deeper understanding. Sliding fee scale $120-160.

West End Yoga Studio, 221 W Walnut St, Lancaster. 717-406-9681. WestEndYoga Studio.com.

Monday, October 7

Mindfulness and Grief – 6:30-8pm. Mondays thru 10/28. Via Zoom. Learn the benefits of practicing mindfulness as a tool for being present with your grief and improving your overall wellbeing. Free. To register by 9/25: Pathways Center for Grief & Loss. 717 391-2413 or 888-282-2177. Hospice Community.org.

Save The Date

MiddleWay Wellness Open House

The MiddleWay Wellness medical providers will be giving a brief talk about the practice and all of the benefits of becoming a member at 5:15 and 6:15 followed by a tour of the office and an opportunity to ask questions. Light refreshments provided. Free.

October 9, 24 & November 6 • 5-7pm

MiddleWay Wellness, 101 Good Dr, Lancaster. 717-744-0532 • MiddleWayWellness.net.

Wednesday, October 9

Kick off Your Boots Meadow Meditations – 6-7pm. (also 10/23). Fun midweek meditations in the meadow with the famous mini donkey, Prince Harry. A time of relaxation, decompression, and time to just BE. $25/person or $20/person with registration of two or more people.To register email Nicole@TakeHeartCounseling.com. Take Heart Counseling, 699 Wooltown Rd, Wernersville. 717-9177137. TakeHeartCounseling.com.

Thursday, October 10

Cooking Class: Kids Club – 4:30-6:30pm. Ages 7-12. Heat things up and learn to create hearty and flavorful chili from scratch, using seasonal ingredients and warming spices, perfect for chilly autumn weather. Hands on. $80pp. Zest Cooking School, 1180 Erbs Quarry Rd, Lititz. 717-435-8890. ZestChef.com. Coping Kids & Teens – 6-7:30pm. Children and teens meet in peer support groups and participate in activities to help them cope with a death while adults learn how to manage the challenges of supporting grieving teens and children. Families gather together for a light supper before each group session. For info/to register: 717-3912413 or 888-282-2177 to discuss with a Bereavement Counselor. Pathways Center for Grief and Loss. HospiceCommunity.org.

Friday, October 11

Newly Bereaved Program – 6-7:30pm. Via Zoom. If your loss was recent, this 3-wk series provides an overview of common grief responses and will help you to begin to identify coping tools. Space limited, registration required. For info/to register: 717-391-

2413 or 888-282-2177 by 10/2 to discuss with a Bereavement Counselor. Pathways Center for Grief and Loss. HospiceCommunity.org.

Fall Sound Meditation with Lori Stahl –6:30-7:30pm. Lori will guide you through a peaceful journey using gongs and other instruments, creating a soundscape that invites deep relaxation and inner calm. All ages are welcome to this rejuvenating experience. $20. Embodied Wisdom Institute, 845 Silver Spring Plaza, Suite B, Lancaster. EmbodiedWisdomInstitute.com.

Saturday, October 12

Lancaster County Women’s Expo – 9am2pm. Women of all ages come together to shop, enjoy mini spa treatments, watch demonstrations, learn about products and services for themselves and their families, and be entertained. Exhibitors will represent beauty, home, health and wellness, fashion, nutrition, shopping, finance, technology and more. Free. Wyndham Resort & Expo Center, 2300 Lincoln Hwy East, Lancaster. 717-2851350. AGreatWayToSpendMyDay.com.

Intro to Herbs: Learn, Taste & Enjoy Community – 10-11:30am. (3-classes, 10/12, 10/19 and 10/26. This 3-class series will introduce you to the delicious and life-affirming world of herbalism. $65/three classes. Embodied Wisdom Institute, 845 Silver Spring Plaza, Ste B, Lancaster. 717-219-7163. Embodied WisdomInstitute.com.

Farm to Table Dinner with Fields Edge Farm – 5-8pm. Ages 16+. Experience dishes showcasing collaborations with chefs, featuring tips on using all parts of garden plants to maximize harvest and explore diverse flavors and textures. See and taste a variety of veggies and identify alternative foods that thrive for organic farmers in the Mid-Atlantic region. $90pp. Zest Cooking School, 1180 Erbs Quarry Rd, Lititz. 717-4358890. ZestChef.com.

Explore Identity and Fashion Art Show –6-8pm. The LGBT Center of Greater Reading will host an art show and fundraiser featuring the conceptual fashion installation “No Bias”, a visual art series on canvas by Karen Glass. The event will raise funds for the center which provides essential services to the LGBTQ+ community. $50. LGBT Center of Reading, 640 Centre Ave, Reading. 484-5133170. LGBTCenterOfReading.com.

Tuesday, October 15

GRASP (Grief Recovery After a Substance Passing) – 6:30-8pm. A source of help, compassion and understanding for individuals who have had a loved one die as a result of substance abuse or addiction. Free. Registration required: MParadise810@comcast.net or 717-951-2720. Pathways Center for Grief & Loss, 4075 Old Harrisburg Pike, Mount Joy. HospiceCommunity.org.

Friday, October 18

Lancaster Friends School Open House –9:30am. LFS welcomes interested families for a tour to learn more about our unique educational community. Please arrive by 9:45 to begin the programmed event. Light

Part One of Special Series on Fertility

The Eye-Opening Truth About Fertility

by Dr. Susan Fox

Global declines in birth rates have made headlines, but the rise of male and female infertility has largely been overlooked. Infertility is defined as the inability to get pregnant after trying for one year. In 2021, Scientific American reported that the world-wide fertility rate dropped by almost 1 percent per year from 1960 to 2018.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that about 1 in 5 American married women in their reproductive years have difficulty in either getting pregnant or carrying to a live birth, and 11.4 percent of men ages 15-49 have some form of infertility.

For women, a study found a 1 percent per year increase in reported miscarriage rates in the US over a two-decade period. The increase in infertility among women has manifested itself in the increased use of assisted reproductive technologies, including egg freezing and in vitro fertilization among younger women, not just those that waited to start families until after age 35. There also has been an increasing trend in the use of gestational surrogacy as family has taken on a wider definition than traditionally, and as corporations have begun to include fertility benefits in their employee compensation packages.

Numerous studies have identified an increase in male fertility issues, including:

• Declines in sperm concentration (52 percent) and total sperm count (nearly 60 percent) between 1973 and 2011. At this rate, average sperm count could be zero by the middle of this century.

• Decreases in testosterone levels of almost 1 percent per year during recent decades in excess of natural, agerelated declines.

• Declines in total testosterone levels among adolescent and young adult males from 1999 to 2016.

• Increases in testicular cancer rates.

• Increases in the prevalence of erectile dysfunction among younger men.

Susan Fox is Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine in Marin County, California, and has specialized in working with women and couples navigating fertility challenge for more than 20 years. Connect at healthyouniversity.co and drsusanfox.com.

There is hope! Watch in November for our next article in this series. Also, learn more, access valuable resources today, and get your COMPLIMENTARY ACCESS PASS for the very special January 20-24 fertility immersive event. Scan the QR Code.

refreshments available before and after the tour. Free. Lancaster Friends School, 10 Tulane Terrace, Lancaster. 717-342-3283. LancasterFriends.org.

Keystone Hiking and Outdoor Weekend – Thru 10/20. Explore PA’s Susquehanna Riverlands! Create your own experience of guided outdoor adventures, educational opportunities, and stewardship activities that highlight local organizations and natural assets of the region. This is a festival with events across multiple locations. Keystone Trails Association, Lancaster Region/ Susquehanna Riverlands. 717-766-9690. KTA-Hike.org.

Saturday, October 19

Qigong for Health and Longevity – 2:303:45pm. Practice gentle flowing movements, breath work and meditation in motion, as well as self-massage, tapping and other techniques to awaken and stimulate the “healer within”. $20pp. The Yoga Place in Ephrata, 9 Hahnstown Rd, Ephrata. 717336-5299. TheYogaPlaceInEphrata.com.

Wednesday, October 23

Age 50 & Under: Coping with the Loss of a Spouse or Companion– Are you age 50 or under and grieving the death of a spouse or companion? Would you like to talk with others who have also experienced a loss? This meeting includes a presentation and an informal time to talk with others. Free. For info/to register: 717-391-2413 or 888-282-2177 to discuss with a Bereavement Counselor. Pathways Center for Grief and Loss, 4075 Old Harrisburg Pk, Mount Joy. HospiceCommunity.org.

Kick off Your Boots Meadow Meditations – 6-7pm. See 10/9 listing for details. To register email Nicole@TakeHeartCounseling. com. Take Heart Counseling, 699 Wooltown Rd, Wernersville. 717-917-7137. TakeHeart Counseling.com.

Thursday, October 24

Introduction to Green Burial – 3-6pm. Drop in anytime to tour the St Kateri Tekakwitha Natural Burial Section of Gethsemane Cemetery and meet Laura Adamo, Licensed Funeral Director and Green Burial Specialist to talk about greener funeral options. Free. Kuhn Funeral Homes with Gethsemane Cemetery, 3139 Kutztown Rd, Laureldale. 646-522-7119. KuhnFuneralHomes.com.

Parent/Grandparent Cooking Class: Pizza – 4:30-6:30pm. Ages 5+. Learn to make delicious homemade pizzas from scratch, crafting the dough, creating tasty sauces, and adding your favorite toppings. Also, make a delightful dessert pizza with caramel and apples. Hands on. $80pp. Zest Cooking School, 1180 Erbs Quarry Rd, Lititz. 717-435-8890. ZestChef.com.

MiddleWay Wellness Open House –5-7pm. See 10/9 listing for details.

Sunday, October 27

Reiki and Restorative Yoga – 1-3pm. This workshop combines both restorative yoga

and energy healing practices for a truly unique experience that will help restore balance and peace to the mind, body and spirit. You will be guided through a series of restorative poses while a reiki master moves throughout the room offering the tranquil healing reiki energy. $40pp. Bldg 7 Yoga, 220 N Park Rd, Wyomissing. 484-7555705. Bldg7Yoga.com.

Monday, October 28

Cooking Class: Spooky Halloween Treats and Costume Party – 4:30-6:30pm. Ages 7-14. Kids will create spooky Halloween treats like skeleton cookies and meringue ghosts. Come dressed in your favorite costume for a chance to win prizes in our costume parade. Hands on. $80pp. Zest Cooking School, 1180 Erbs Quarry Rd, Lititz. 717-435-8890. ZestChef.com.

Women’s Intro Writing Class – 6:308:30pm. 5 wks, Mondays thru 11/25. Via Zoom. “Writing Without Fear.” A warm and welcoming community of trust, kindness and understanding. Learn to write freely without perfection and self-doubt. Beginner’s welcome, sharing optional. Write From the Heart. Registration required. 717393-4713. WriteFromTheHeart.us.

Tuesday, October 29

Women’s Memoir Writing Class – 6:308:30pm. 5 wks, Tuesdays thru 12/3 (no class 11/5). Via Zoom. “Exploring our Life Stories.” A safe haven for capturing the memories that matter to us most. Write From the Heart. Registration required. 717-393-4713. WriteFromTheHeart.us.

Thursday, October 31

The Imperial Terrace’s Halloween Dinner –6pm. This Halloween-themed gathering offers a unique dining experience that brings the dark origins of Brothers Grimm’s stories to life on the plate. Guests will be treated to six sinister courses with a plant-based option available. $79. The Imperial Restaurant, 26 E Chestnut St, Lancaster. 717-600-4655. TheImperialRestaurant.com.

Plan Ahead

Save The Date

Good Food Fest

Epic farmers market with 100+ vendors, food trucks, pouring room, culinary demonstrations, kids activities, farm animals and more.

November 3 • 11am-4pm Kimberton Fairgrounds GoodFarmsGoodFood.com

Self Heal with Barbara O’Neil. Wednesday, November 6 – Saturday, November 9. Embark on a 4-day healing journey with worldrenowned teacher who combines foundational knowledge about the body’s systems and a deep affinity for the wonders of nature to advance the way we think about health. Held at Spooky Nook Sports, Manheim. Early bird tickets through 7/10. For info and tickets: TwinValleyHolisticHealth. com/events.

Thursday, November 14

Lancaster Friends School Open House – 9:30-11am. LFS welcomes interested families for a tour to learn more about our unique educational community. Please arrive by 9:45 to begin the programmed event. Light refreshments available before and after the tour. Free. Lancaster Friends School, 10 Tulane Terrace, Lancaster. 717342-3283. LancasterFriends.org.

Save The Date

Holiday Holistic & Spiritual Bazaar

A festive array of vendors of gemstone trees, crystals, soaps, essential oils, artwork, photography, incense, books plus healers, readers, tarot and much more. Food, baked goods, gourmet coffee available for purchase. Free admission.

Saturday, December 14 & Sunday, December 15 • 10am-5pm Leesport Farmers Market, 312 Garnets Church Rd, Leesport. 570-573-1561. LadyLynora.com/Holiday-Bazaar.

Save The Date

Soundwise School of Harmonic Therapy

First monthly meeting of a 7-month in-person course providing the basics of the art and science of sound healing, and training, knowledge and experience necessary to become of practitioner of skillful means and integrity. Must complete prerequisite class on 11/13 to enroll. January 22, 2025 • 9:30am-5pm

Soundwise School of Harmonic Therapy, 313 W Liberty St, Ste 263, Lancaster. 610-301-4356. SoundwiseHealth.com.

Save The Date

Ecological Gardener Training Program

Discover how to design and nurture healthy and biodiverse ecosystems in human spaces through this 16-week immersive training program. $1,390, payment plans available.

Sunday, February 9, 2025

Beginning 2/9, 4 Sundays thru 3/2 (9am-3pm), followed by twelve Tuesdays 3/4-5/20 (8am-12pm).

Wednesday, November 6

MiddleWay Wellness Open House –5-7pm. See 10/9 listing for details.

Horn Farm Center in partnership with Waxwing EcoWorks, 4945 Horn Rd, York. 717-757-6441. HornFarmCenter.org.

Sunday

Meditation – 8-8:45am. Studies show meditation may assist management of pain, depression, stress, anxiety and more. By donation. West End Yoga Studio, 221 W Walnut St, Lancaster. 717-406-9681. WestEndYoga Studio.com.

Meditation – 8-9am. Group meditation. By donation; register online. Kula Kamala Ashram, 17 Basket Rd, Alsace Twp, Reading. 484-509-5073. KulaKamalaFoundation.org.

Yin Yoga – 9-10:30am. A meditative practice with floor-based poses. For all levels. By donation. Register online. Kula Kamala Ashram, 17 Basket Rd, Alsace Twp, Reading. 484-509-5073. KulaKamalaFoundation.org.

Wisdom Circle – 10:30-11:30am. Spiritual discourses by founder Swamini Shraddhananda Saraswati. By donation. Register online. Kula Kamala Ashram, 17 Basket Rd, Alsace Twp, Reading. 484-509-5073. KulaKamalaFoundation.org.

Yoga at Phantom Power – 10:30-11:30am. Yoga on the stage rain or shine, right before Eggs and Kegs. College discount available, all yogis also get a drink discount. West End Yoga at Phantom Power, 121 W Frederick St, Millersville. 717-406-9681. WestEndYoga Studio.com.

Monday

Yin Level 1 – 6:30-7:30am. Starting 9/30. A gentle, slow-paced practice that focuses on holding passive shapes for extended periods. $24/drop-in. Embodied Wisdom Institute, 845 Silver Spring Plaza, Suite B, Lancaster. 717-219-7163. Embodied WisdomInstitute.com.

Yin Level 2 – 8-9am. Starting 9/30. Builds on Level 1 practice. See Yin Level 1 listing for details.

Mindful Yoga – 6-7pm. Onsite and via Zoom. Slow down your breath, your body, and your mind. Saint James Episcopal, 119 N Duke St, Lancaster. 717-397-4858. UrbanWell.org.

30-Minute Mindful Meditation – 7-7:30pm. Via Zoom. Mindfulness techniques such as body scan, Yoga Nidra, breathing and guided imagery are offered to help achieve a deep state of relaxation and meditation. Excellent for anxiety, stress, and chronic pain. All levels are welcome. $17. Register online. The Yoga Place, Ephrata. TheYogaPlaceInEphrata.com.

Tuesday

Contemplative Prayer/Meditation –8-8:30am. In person and via Zoom. Free. Saint James Episcopal, 119 N Duke St, Lancaster. 717-397-4858. For the Zoom link, visit UrbanWell.org.

RDG Fresh Market – 11am-2pm. Fresh produce at affordable prices. Listen to a 5-minute nutrition lesson and receive $2. SNAP, cash, card and Food Bucks accepted. Offering bulk orders, CSA and farmstand requests. Farm Traveler at 145 N 6th St, Reading. ReadingCentralMarket@gmail.com.

Mindfulness Meditation – 6-7:30pm. In studio. Mindfulness Meditation has been shown in research to improve both physical and mental health. Includes a brief teaching followed by a guided mindfulness meditation. All levels welcome. $17. Register online. The Yoga Place, 9 Hahnstown Rd, Ephrata. TheYogaPlaceInEphrata.com.

Wednesday

Try Us Out Yoga – 6-7pm. Thru 12/18/24. Rotating series of Chair, Restorative and Embodied Spirituality yoga classes. All gentle and accessible taught by certified yoga teachers. Props provided. $60/6 classes. Saint James Parish House. 119 N Duke St, Lancaster. 717-397-4858. SaintJames Lancaster.org/urban-well.

Rooftop Yoga – 7-8pm. Every 2nd Wednesday thru 9/11. Connect in community with other yogis on the top of the Double Tree Parking Garage, and flow freely with amazing views of the city and Pagoda. Beginners and all ages are welcome. $20pp at the door. Bldg 7 Yoga at the top level of the Double Tree Parking Garage, 701 Penn Street, Reading. 484-755-5705. Bldg7Yoga.com.

Ultimate Health Workshop – 7pm. Learn how you can achieve optimal health. Topics vary by week. Free. Call to reserve your spot. Heath Wellness Center, 14 W. Main St, Landisville. 717-530-5555. HeathChiropractic.com.

Thursday

The Zen Vet Acupuncture and Chiropractic Clinic – 12-6pm. Every 2nd Thursday. Bring your dog or cat to Godfrey’s Dogdom for your appointment and wave the house call fee. Acupuncture, chiropractic, laser therapy, PEMF, Food Therapy and more. Godfrey’s Dogdom, 4267 New Holland Rd, Knauers. 717-516-2304. TheZenVet.com.

Contemplative Prayer/Meditation –8-8:30am. In person and via Zoom. Free. Saint James Episcopal, 119 N Duke St, Lancaster. 717-397-4858. For Zoom link, visit UrbanWell.org.

Mindfulness Meditation – 9-10am. (Zoom). Mindfulness Meditation has been shown in research to improve both physical and mental health. Includes a brief teaching followed by a guided mindfulness meditation. All levels welcome. $17. Register online. The Yoga Place, Ephrata. TheYoga PlaceInEphrata.com.

The Zen Vet Acupuncture and Chiropractic Clinic – 12-6pm. Every 2nd Thursday. Bring

Classifieds

Fee for classifieds is $1 per word per month. To place listing, email content to Advertising@NALancaster.com . Deadline is the 10th of the month.

For Rent

FOR LEASE – 1,500 sq.-ft. medical office suite in Mt. Penn. Five treatment rooms, reception area, administrative work spaces, and off-street parking. $1,650 per month plus utilities. Call Randy Weidner at RE/ MAX of Reading, Realtors today! 610-6702770.

Services

ENJOY A RELAXING MASSAGE AT HOME –

Rather than leave the comfort of your own home, a massage will come to you! Please visit TherapeuticTravelingMassage.com for more information.

MASSAGE THERAPY & MORE – Fantastic Black Friday deal: Nov. 25 to Dec. 2. 30-min. infrared sauna, 60 min. massage, 60-min. reflexology only $98! Schedule at Judith Gabriel.abmp.com.

Gratefully serving Lancaster County and Berks County, Pennsylvania and the surrounding area.

Paid subscriptions available along with delivery of free-to-the-reader print magazines at hundreds of locations. Sign up on our website to receive our digital magazine delivered free to your inbox.

To promote your HEALTHY, NATURAL or GREEN business, service or event, please call 717-399-3187.

NALancaster.com · NABerks.com

Leola

your dog or cat to Godfrey’s Dogdom for your appointment and wave the house call fee. Acupuncture, chiropractic, laser therapy, PEMF, Food Therapy and more. Godfrey’s Dogdom, 4267 New Holland Rd, Knauers. 717-516-2304. TheZenVet.com.

Friday

Meditation – 6:30-7:15am. Studies show meditation may assist management of pain, depression, stress, anxiety and more. By donation. West End Yoga Studio, 221 W Walnut St, Lancaster. 717-406-9681. West EndYogaStudio.com.

Yin Level 1 – 6:30-7:30am. Starting 9/27. A gentle, slow-paced practice that fo-

cuses on holding passive shapes for extended periods. $24/drop-in. Embodied Wisdom Institute, 845 Silver Spring Plaza, Suite B, Lancaster. 717-219-7163. Embodied WisdomInstitute.com.

Contemplative Prayer/Meditation – 6:457:15am. In person and via Zoom. Free.  717397-4858. 119 N Duke St, Lancaster. For Zoom link, visit UrbanWell.org.

Yin Level 2 – 8-9am. Starting 9/27. Builds on Level 1 practice. See Yin Level 1 listing for details.

Mindful Yoga – 9-10am. Onsite and via Zoom. Slow down your breath, your body, and your mind. Saint James Episcopal, 119 N Duke St, Lancaster. 717-397-4858. UrbanWell.org.

Release and Rejuvenate Yoga – 12-1pm. Onsite and via Zoom. Take a moment for emotional, mental, and physical release. Perfect for all levels of yoga experience. The class incorporates gentle movements with the breath, held poses, breathwork, meditation and relaxing music. Register for yoga online. West End Yoga Studio, 221 W Walnut St, Lancaster. 717-406-9681. WestEnd YogaStudio.com.

Chiropractic Care and Massage – 1:305:30pm. 2nd Friday of the month. Chiropractic care and massage services at the LGBT Wellness Center. Free consultations and fees based on a sliding scale. Dr Super’s House of Health with The LGBT Center of Greater Reading, 640 Centre Ave, Reading. 610-601-9011. DrSupersHouseOfHealth.com.

Sunset Yoga on the Ranch – 6-7pm. Facilitated by therapist and certified traumainformed yoga teacher Kathleen Epler, this class aims to provide a space for relaxation and community (arrive 30 minutes prior to allow time to walk to the hillside). $25. Take Heart Counseling, 699 Wooltown Rd, Wernersville. Registration required: 717-2059949 or Nicole@TakeHeartCounseling.com. TakeHeartCounseling.com.

Saturday

Meditation – 8-8:40am. Studies show meditation may assist management of pain, depression, stress, anxiety and more. By donation. West End Yoga Studio, 221 W Walnut St, Lancaster. 717-406-9681. WestEndYogaStudio.com.

All Levels Yoga – 9-10:10am. Gentle stretches that lead into standing poses for strength and balance. Class ends with a guided relaxation and short meditation. This class is guided so that all students are able to practice. Modifications are provided. The Yoga Place, 9 Hahnstown Rd, Ephrata. $17/class, or 10 classes for $120. Registration required. TheYogaPlaceInEprata.com.

Puppy Start Right Program – 10-11am. Includes four classes, a book, videos and a training treat pouch. Taught by Nicole Weersing, Karen Pryor Certified Instructor. Rotating start, registration required. $175. Godfrey’s Welcome to Dogdom, 4267 New Holland Rd, Mohnton. 610-777-5755. GodfreysDogdom.com.

Tarot – 10am-3:30pm. Nancy Warble offers 4-6-card readings during 20-30-minute session. Drop in or make an appointment. Call for details. $19. Radiance, 13 W Grant St, Lancaster. 717-290-1517. HerbsFromTheLabyrinth.com.

Astrology Readings by Leo – 11am. Call ahead to schedule and provide birth date, place, and if available, specific time. $75 for a two-hour private session. Radiance, 13 W Grant St, Lancaster. 717-290-1517. HerbsFromTheLabyrinth.com.

Community Resource Guide

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 Community Resource Guide, email Advertising@NALancaster.com or visit NALancaster.com or NABerks.com.

Acupuncture

LANCASTER ACUPUNCTURE

Beverly Fornoff

Eden Natural Care Center 600F Eden Rd • Lancaster 717-381-7334

LancasterAcupuncture.com

Discover your body’s natural ability to heal with the supports of acupuncture and herbal medicine. Acupuncture is a way to relieve acute or chronic pain, stress, allergies, colds, digestive problems, and insomnia and support your overall well-being. See ad, page 23.

Bodywork

INTEGRATIVE HEALING ARTS STUDIO

546 Penn Ave • West Reading 610-451-9577

IntegrativeHealingArtsStudio.org

Providing an eclectic assortment of services and classes to support mind-bodyspirit wellness, including massage therapy and bodywork (MSG006469), reiki, herbalism, aromatherapy and more. Our boutique features handcrafted candles, crystals, loose herbs and other enchantments. See website for more.

SUPERNATURAL WELLBEING, LLC

Grace Henderson, LMT 342 N Queen St • Lancaster SupernaturalWellbeingLLC@gmail.com

Offering a wide range of bodywork and holistic wellness services to support your well-being, harmony and balance of mind/body/spirit, guiding you to the realization that you have always been perfect while empowering you to make necessary changes to create the fabulous life you want to live. LGBQTIA+ friendly.

Chiropractic

A THERAPEUTIC EFFECT

Dr. Andrew Ashton 313D Primrose Ln • Mountville 717-285-9955 • ATherapeuticEffect.com

Providing an array of therapeutic treatments and services that promote relaxation and detoxification. Our doctor specializes in low-impact Torque Release Technique which provides immediate results for people of all ages. See ad, page 2.

BLUE SKIES CHIROPRACTIC

Dr. Leah Reiff

2727 Old Philadelphia Pike • Bird-in-Hand 717-390-9998

BlueSkiesChiroHealth.com

Chiropractic is used for natural relief from conditions such as chronic pain, injuries, pregnancy complications, complications from aging & more. Dr. Reiff carefully considers every individual's comfort level & provides specific adjustments to support the body for benefits that will last.

CAVALLO HEALTH

11 Green Tree Rd • Quarryville 717-806-5672

656 East Main St • New Holland 717-351-0631

CavalloClinic.com

Taking a personalized approach to your health, we identify the root causes of your symptoms and illness, offering customized treatment options to help you reach your health and wellness goals. We provide chiropractic, spinal decompression, Webster Technique, digital X-rays, cranial sacral therapy, functional and naturopathic medicine, family medicine, IV therapy, and more. See ad, page 27.

DR. SUPER’S HOUSE OF HEALTH

2209 Quarry Dr, Ste B-21 • West Lawn 610-601-9011

DrSupersHouseOfHealth.com

At Dr. Super’s House of Health, we believe in a personalized approach to health care. We do things the right way, all the time, every time. Discover the healing power that lives within you and take control of your health again. Also offering massage and lymphatic drainage.

FREEMAN’S CHIROPRACTIC & FAMILY WELLNESS

232 W Main St Suite 111 • Leola 17 Meadow Ln • Lancaster 717-354-5443

FreemansVitalistic.com

What is the potential of your Life {Force} when your Central Channel is free, open and unimpeded? Dedicated to fulfilling the original intention of Chiropractic through D. D. Palmer's principle of Tone, and honoring, NeuroStructural applications. Made from scratch, every session, never hurried. Vitalistic Chiropractic Care for you and your entire family (from fertilization to last breath). See ad, page 22.

HEATH CHIROPRACTIC & WELLNESS CENTER LLC

Thomas Heath, DC 14 W Main St • Landisville 717-530-5555

HeathWellnessCenter.com

For 33 years, Dr. Heath has been helping people recover their health and reduce stress in their lives through Functional Integrative Brain / Body Balance. He uses Professional Applied Kinesiology, Neuro Emotional Technique, Quantum Neurology, Nutritional counseling, traditional Chiropractic and other cutting-edge techniques. See ad, page 20.

LINK CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

Dr. Thomas B. Wachtmann, DC 3130 Pricetown Rd • Fleetwood 610-944-5000

DrWachtmann.com

—Brene Brown

High-quality, patientfocused Chiropractic Care, and Functional Diagnostic Medicine evaluation and treatment. We focus on correcting the underlying causes of many disorders, diseases and conditions. Call for a complimentary consultation and benefits check. See ad, page 21.

Chiropractic

TRI-COUNTY CHIROPRACTIC

990 Benjamin Franklin Hwy E Douglassville • 610-385-1444

3109 Old Philadelphia Pike • Bird in Hand 717-929-0059

TriCountyChiropracticOfDouglassville.com

Dr. Kisla and her team are committed to helping patients improve their overall health and manage concerns such as back and neck pain, headaches, and muscular tightness and tension through state-of-the-art spinal adjustments, spinal decompression, massage and bodywork, nutritional and fitness counseling and more. See ad, page 23.

Clinical Aromatherapist

INSHANTI

Debra Stoltzfus

48 Slaymaker Hill Rd • Kinzers 717-587-3990 • Inshanti.com

Trust a nationally certified aromatherapist specializing in clinical consultations. Deb can work directly with your physician to create a plan that supports mind and body health. In addition to retail and wholesale accounts of proprietary blends and pure essential oils sourced directly from the farmers, half- and full-day education courses with certification are offered. See ad, page 23.

Coaching

FUNCTIONAL HEALTH OF LANCASTER

Elizabeth Kelly, MA, FMCHC 2207 Oregon Pk, Ste 301A • Lancaster info@FH-Lancaster.com 717-490-6227 (call or text) FH-Lancaster.com

Elizabeth is a certified functional medicine health coach and gently guides clients to curate a personal vision, lean into their strengths, find meaning and purpose, identify obstacles, cultivate new habits that create health, set short-term and long-term goals, and create lasting change. All coaching sessions are remote for your convenience. See ad, page 5.

Counseling

GREY MUZZLE MANOR

1164 Blattadahl Rd • Mohrsville 610-655-5271

GreyMuzzleManor.com Facebook.com/GreyMuzzleManor

Grey Muzzle Manor provides Animal Assisted Psychotherapy and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy for adults and children with trauma, depression, anxiety, impulse control disorders, autism, addiction, and more. Our animals enable people to find their internal power and strength to move forward in life.

See ad, page 14.

M. HARNISH COUNSELING & SPIRITUAL DIRECTION

Malinda Harnish Clatterbuck, MA (she/her)

228 E Orange St • Lancaster 717-875-5066

MHarnishTherapy.com

The work of healing and formation begins as we listen to what is going on in our inner life, what is happening in our heart and in our head. Using compassion and deep listening, I will be present with you and help you along your way.

MATTERS OF THE HEART COUNSELING LLC

45 W Brandt Blvd • Salunga 420 E Park St • Elizabethtown 717-282-2908

MOHInfo@CounselingMail.com MattersOfTheHeartCounselingLLC.com

Matters of the Heart Counseling, LLC is dedicated to the growth and healing of people in different seasons of their life. Each therapist at MOH has an area of specialization to meet the varying needs of individuals and families, including adoption, substance abuse, neurofeedback, EMDR, couples and maternal mental health therapies. See ad, page 55.

TAKE HEART COUNSELING & EQUINE ASSISTED THERAPY

699 Wooltown Rd • Wernersville 717-917-7137

TakeHeartCounseling.com

Providing traumainformed services to address anxiety, depression, self-worth, ADHD, autismspectrum, trauma, behavioral issues, spirituality, family issues and overall mental health and wellbeing. We empower families and individuals from children through adulthood to find hope, healing and wholeness through therapy sessions with trained clinicians and the intuitive partnership of horses. See ad, page 31.

Cryotherapy

BAJA BEACH WELLNESS

Sinking Spring • Wyomissing Laureldale • Exeter 610-601-6585

Info@BajaBeachWellness.com BajaBeachWellness.com

Discover Baja Beach Wellness, a one-of-akind oasis renowned for its cutting-edge wellness services. Experience the most advanced Cryotherapy and Red Light Therapy equipment available on the market. Visit any of our four convenient locations in Berks County and elevate your wellness journey at Baja Beach. See ad, page 31.

Culinary Arts

THE ART OF CEREMONIAL COOKING

Hilary Mace

Mount Gretna 717-371-8999

TheArtOfCeremonialCooking.com

Offerings include unique customized dinner celebrations; thoughtful menu planning, culinary rituals, interactive demonstrations, creative presentation and culinary exploration at special occasions & group retreats. Plus, in-depth classes that include symbolism of food, artful storytelling and celebration of the rich diversity of human experience through the universal language of food.

CAN'T FIND WHAT YOU'RE LOOKING FOR?

More businesses, organizations, practitioners and services are listed on our website. Scan the code or go to NALancaster.com or NABerks.com and click on the Directory (top of screen).

Dentistry

DAVID A. SCHWARTZ, DDS, PC

701 Jefferson Blvd • West Lawn 610-670-6910

SchwartzFamilyDental.com

We provide general and cosmetic mercury-free dental care to the entire family with attention to “whole person health.” We have advanced training in the safe removal of mercury fillings, non-surgical gum treatments, orthodontics, sleep apnea, solutions for TMJ, facial pain, and headaches. Visit our website to learn more. See ad, page 25.

SUSQUEHANNA DENTAL ARTS

100 S 18th St • Columbia 717-684-3943 • 717-285-7033

SusquehannaDentalArts.com

Informative

Seminar

KAREN GLASS

Life to End of Life Services, Death

Doula, Herbalist

Remote: Greater Berks, Lancaster, Philadelphia Karen-Glass.com

Coach-Doula@Karen-Glass.com

Life to End of Life coaching is a conscious compassionate process for resolution & closure when moving through profound change in life at any time. Also offering Death Doula services for those who are terminally ill, the actively dying and their loved ones, including practical planning, facilitating conscious communication & awareness, advocating and companioning.

KUHN FUNERAL HOMES

Laura Adamo, LFD

Specializing in Green Burial

SIMPLE FUNERALS

40 N Charlotte St • Manheim 717-664-1500

SimpleFuneralsPA.com

At Simple Funerals, we pride ourselves on serving families with dignity, respect and compassion, offering affordable funeral services that focus on simplicity and value. Planning, pre-planning, cremation, traditional and green burial services are available. See ad, page 28.

Farm/Farmers Markets

EAT MO GREENS

910 Brownsville Rd • Wernersville 484-529-7668

CSA@EatMoGreens.com

EatMoGreens.com

THURSDAY

JUNE 20TH, 2024

575 St. Bernardine St, Reading, PA 19607

12:00 PM OR 5:30 PM

Certified by the Green Burial Council, Kuhn Funeral Homes provide the highest level of service for natural funerals and green burial. We are committed to supporting those seeking familycentered and sustainable alternatives at end-of-life –whether traditional, cremation or home funerals. See ad, page 19.

PRESENTED BY PRESENTED BY Laura Adamo

Licensed Funeral Director and Green Burial expert in Berks County.

PEACEFUL PASSAGES

Elena Snyder, LPN 215-859-2556

Facebook/PeacefulHospiceCare

Local organically grown, fresh, nutrient-rich vegetables grown throughout the year. From celery, lettuces, microgreens to kohlrabi, radishes, carrots, tomatoes, varieties of peppers and more. For weekly offerings, see us at facebook.com/ eatmogreens. Find out more about online orders, our farm and CSA, and visit us weekly

150 Letort Rd • Millersville

Come learn about green burial Come learn about green burial options for natural interment. options for natural interment. Discover how you or your loved ones Discover how you or your loved ones can be laid to rest with nature. can be laid to rest with nature.

Homefields

SCAN OR CALL SCAN OR CALL TO RSVP TO RSVP

symptoms and needs. Hospice care provides comfort during a patient’s final weeks and months. Palliative care relieves the symptoms and stress of serious illness. Grief support is provided during and after a loss. See ad, page 29.

With over 20 years experience in hospice end of life care, Elena provides personalized, hands-on, end-of-life comfort care services such as nursing care, companionship, education, emotional support and spiritual guidance through life’s final journey.

Care Farm is Lancaster County’s longest-running, community-supported agriculture program and has created vocational and volunteer opportunities for hundreds of people who have a disability or other barriers to traditional employment. We’ve provided over 300 varieties of fresh fruit and vegetables to families like yours for

See which cemeteries offer this See which cemeteries offer this option locally. option locally.

LIVENGOOD FAMILY FARM

PEACE OF MIND AGING & WELLNESS SPECIALISTS

Kristen Nebel, DO 717-723-8351

PeaceOfMindAging.com

An oasis of wellness and comfort for patients and their loved ones. Providing inhome physician care for persons with dementia or at end of life, as well as caregiver support, end-of-life death doula services, and a variety of specialty therapies. See ad, page 27.

Pastured-Raised Meats, Eggs & Produce 1648 Morningside Dr • Lancaster

LivengoodFamilyFarm.com

Our regenerative farm offers organically grown produce and pasturedraised meat & eggs and feature intensively rotated grazing. Our ruminants are 100% grassfed and our pork and poultry are free of GMO, soy and corn. Shop online. Convenient farm pickup. Consider hosting a delivery point in your area.

Farm/Farmers Markets

RODALE INSTITUTE

611 Siegfriedale Rd • Kutztown 610-683-1400

RodaleInstitute.org

Rodale Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to growing the regenerative organic agriculture movement through rigorous research, farmer training, and education. Over our 75-year history, we have proven that organic farming is not only viable, but essential to humanity’s survival. Our visitor’s center includes a wide selection of gifts and goods for the farm and plant enthusiast. See ad, page 16.

Functional Medicine

FUNCTIONAL HEALTH OF LANCASTER

Functional Neurology

LANCASTER BRAIN & SPINE

221 Granite Run Dr • Lancaster 717-299-9600

LancasterBrainAndSpine.com

Dr. Mary Regan, DNP, CRNP, IFMCP 2207 Oregon Pk, Ste 301A • Lancaster Info@FH-Lancaster.com 717-490-6227 (call or text) FH-Lancaster.com

Looking for a holistic root cause approach to your health and wellness? Functional Health of Lancaster provides comprehensive adult primary care, functional medicine, IV supplement therapies, nutritional support, thermography and yoga therapy, addressing important health needs and wellness goals. Membership plans available. See ad, page 5.

KULP NUTRITION & WELLNESS

Dr. Donna Kulp, DC, DACBN, IFMCP 52 Morgantown Road • Reading 610-208-0404

KulpChiropractic.com

Dr. Donna Kulp helps patients achieve health and wellness goals through finding the root cause of illness by considering individual biochemistry, health history, genetics, lifestyle, exercise, and stress to create customized wellness programs for all body systems, including the immune, endocrine, and gastrointestinal systems. See ad, page 25.

Peace in the world starts with oneself. If everyone lives mindfully, everyone will be more healthy, feel more fulfilled in their daily lives and there will be more peace.

—Thich Nhat Hahn

Our mission is to improve the lives of people suffering from complicated neurological and musculoskeletal conditions, by utilizing cutting-edge diagnostic testing and customized brain-based treatment plans. See ads, pages 24 and 55.

Holistic Wellness

beU COMPLETE

Tansy Rodgers Lancaster • Virtual 717-281-1102

TansyRodgers.com

ORGANIC FIELD DAY

JULY 21 | 8:30AM–3:30PM | KUTZTOWN, PA

Join Rodale Institute’s researchers and expert staff at our annual Organic Field Day to learn the latest results of our farming trials and visit nearly 20 demonstration stations on our 386-acre experimental farm.

Herbalism/ Herbal Medicine

GREEN ENCHANTMENTS, LLC

Cara Marino OTR/L and Holistic Herbalist 860-604-5125

Tansy understands the impact that energy healing has on your health, happiness, and self-confidence. Using a variety of holistic modalities, she specializes in burnout, gut health, ADHD, chakra work, energy balancing, emotion release, mobility work and self-confidence.

You’ll have the opportunity to interact one-on-one with Rodale Institute experts and learn about a wide variety of research and demonstration projects, all focused on organic agriculture!

Cara@GreenEnchantmentsShoppe.com GreenEnchantmentsShoppe.com

JACKIE’S OIL CONNECTION

Jacquelyn Donati, LMT, dõTERRA Wellness Advocate 610-781-7310

Jackies.Oil.Connection@gmail.com

Sign up at RodaleInstitute.org/FieldDay

Green Enchantments offers Holistic Herbal Medicine from an Occupational Therapist mindset in order to provide 100% handmade organic and/ or ethically sourced remedies to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual quality of life utilizing internal and external approaches. We additionally offer individualized consultation services using a complementary perspective of allopathic and holistic education.

HARNER’S HERBALS

Located at the Shoppes on Main in Robin's Nest 345 W Main St • Birdsboro HarnersHerbals.square.site

With 15+ years of herbal experience, we offer highquality services and herbal remedies to promote a healthier well-beingphysically, emotionally and spiritually - including a bulk herbal apothecary, herbal teas, tinctures & remedies, herbal consultations, herbal smudging/clearings, reiki master, energy work & intention-based work.

HERBS FROM THE LABYRINTH

Master Herbalist Sarah Preston Radiance, 13 W Grant St • Lancaster 717-290-1517

HerbsFromTheLabyrinth.com

Long-time Herbalist Sarah Preston crafts small-batch herbal body-care and wellness products, teas, tinctures, syrups, salves and creams using organically grown and ethically sourced wildcrafted herbs. Consultations and custom blends available. Products found at Radiance and Lemon Street Market, both in Lancaster. See ad, page 12.

My.DoTerra.com/bluemountainmassage

Discover how to support your health with essential oils and simple lifestyle shifts. With education and guidance, you can achieve a wide range of health and wellness goals using natural solutions. Request info about free classes or to schedule a personal wellness consultation.

RESTORE YOUR ENERGY

Deb Gallagher, RN, AP Lancaster 717-203-9666

RestoreEnergy12@gmail.com

RestoreYourEnergy.org

Experience Eden Energy Medicine, a practice created by Donna Eden, healer, author and teacher. This method assists with balancing our nine energy systems which can become blocked by stress, pain and illnesses. When the energy is balanced, sleep, joy, concentration and immunity improve, and our body’s natural ability to heal can begin.

Home Improvement

HUGHES

HOME SERVICES

Green Cleaning Professionals

Samantha Hughes

SamanthAnneHughes@yahoo.com 717-538-6383

We offer weekly, bi-weekly or monthly services, as well as “deep cleaning” and organizing using organic, safe environmentally kind products. We’d love to help meet specific goals and desires to make your home healthy and happy! Please reach out to schedule a free consultation. See ad, page 17.

Homeopathy

RUTA HOMEOPATHIC & COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE

Toll House Shoppes • 4453 Penn Ave, Suite 8 • Sinking Spring

646-204-9199

RutaComprehensive.org

ChildrensDestinies.org

Dr. Serguei Krissiouk is an experienced practitioner of homeopathic and other complementary medicines with a background in pediatrics. He provides children and adults effective and harmonizing management for acute and chronic health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, sleep disturbances, eating disorders and more. Tele-health appointments available.

HUMAN DESIGN

Trella Dubetz, Human Design Practitioner

TrellaDubetz.com

IG: @akashicreflector

Human Design melds ancient and modern sciences, providing data, guidance and context to HOW we are built genetically to cosmological levels. It deepens our awareness and relationship to ourselves, so we can move through life with greater ease and satisfaction.

Hypnosis

QUANTUM HEALING HYPNOSIS LANCASTER

Keysha Koy Whitsel

210 Grant St • Lancaster

717-201-2350

QHHTLancaster.com

Unlock your potential with Quantum Healing. Delve into past experiences, traumas and joys to create a roadmap for your best life. Your unique masterpiece awaits. Discover the power within with QHHT.

YOUR QUANTUM HEALING EXPERIENCE

Dan Ober, Level 2 QHHT

313 W Liberty St, Ste 137 • Lancaster 717-727-1090

YourQuantumHealingExperience.net

QHHT – a safe and comfortable way to release lingering emotional and physical ailments. Utilizing a natural hypnotic state, our clients work directly with their subconscious self to access information they normally wouldn’t have and many times relive a past life experience.

Integrative Medicine

MIDDLEWAY

WELLNESS

Comprehensive Holistic Primary Care

Mary Ellen Francescani, CRNP, IFMT

Jane Snyder, CRNP, IFMT

101 Good Dr • Lancaster

717-744-0532

MiddleWayWellness.net

At MiddleWay Wellness, we combine conventional, integrative, and functional medicine to deliver a holistic, patient-centered approach to primary care. We provide compassionate, thorough care tailored to your needs, whether you're seeking treatment for illness, preventive care, or strategies for optimal health and longevity. All-in-one care! See ad, page 11.

NICK D’ORAZIO, MD

Strasburg Health Associates

181 Hartman Bridge Rd • Ronks 717-687-7541

DrNickDorazio@gmail.com

Physician board certified in integrative and holistic medicine employs a wide variety of treatment modalities including Ayurveda, IV treatments including chelation, homeopathic, herbal, and nutritional medicine, natural injections, physical rehabilitation, and bodywork. Dr. D’Orazio is a physician who lives what he teaches.

WALNUT GROVE FAMILY MEDICINE & WELLNESS CLINIC

Mary Tierney, MD 3100 Willow Street Pk • Willow Street 717-723-9104

WalnutGroveFamilyMed.com

With a patient-first approach using science-based research to guide treatment plans along with supplementary modalities, we help our patients achieve and maintain optimal health and wellbeing. Providing family and sports medicine, acupuncture, infrared therapy, hyrdomassage, discounted labs, medications and supplements and more. See ad, page 20.

IV Therapies

AQUA BLUE WELLNESS CENTER

2435 Old Philadelphia Pk

Smoketown • 717-656-8615

AquaBlueWellnessCenter.com

We offer a range of IV hydration vitamin and mineral therapies to support your well-being. IV therapies can support hydration, weight loss, increased energy, improved immunity, address nutrient deficiencies and more. See ad, page 37.

FUNCTIONAL HEALTH OF LANCASTER

Dr. Mary Regan, DNP, CRNP, IFMCP 2207 Oregon Pike, Suite 301A • Lancaster Info@FH-Lancaster.com 717-490-6227 (call or text) FH-Lancaster.com

Our intravenous (IV) supplement therapy provides bioavailable nutrients to help you recover, rejuvenate, repair and rebuild. IV therapy delivers vitamins, minerals and nutrients to the body quickly, efficiently and effectively by bypassing the gastrointestinal tract, allowing for direct cellular uptake. Membership plans available. See ad, page 5.

Lab Testing

ANY LAB TEST NOW

235 Bloomfield Dr, 110 Bldg B • Lititz 717-207-7604

AnyLabTestNow.com/Lititz

Any Lab Test Now makes it easy for consumers and businesses to manage their health! We provide direct access to clinical lab tests, DNA tests, and drug- and alcoholtesting services, vitamin B12 injections and more. See ad, page 13.

Lymphatic Therapy

AQUA BLUE WELLNESS CENTER

2435 Old Philadelphia Pk • Smoketown 717-656-8615

AquaBlueWellnessCenter.com

The mind and body are not separate. They are like two sides of the same coin.

—Eckhart Tolle

Over the past 18 years of treating our clients, we’ve found that supporting the proper flow of lymphatic fluid through electro-lymphatic therapy positively affects many conditions including: lymphedema, edema, cancer, Lyme disease, heart disease, enlarged prostate, post-injury/surgical healing and more. See ad, page 37.

Markets

KIMBERTON WHOLE FOODS

Wyomissing, Douglasville, Kimberton, Downingtown, Ottsville, Collegeville, Malvern

KimbertonWholeFoods.com

A family-owned and operated community market with a commitment to integrity, sustainable agriculture, and fair trade. We carry organic produce, raw dairy, humanely-raised meats, specialty and gourmet foods, baked goods, supplements, natural body care, and household items, cards and books many from our over 150 local producers, as well as healthy take out, eat-in and to-go items. See ad, back cover.

LEMON STREET MARKET

241 W Lemon St • Lancaster 717-826-0843

LemonStreetMarket.com

We are an independent & woman-owned grocery store with a focus on sustainable and healthy living, with many local, organic, vegan and gluten-free options. We’re open 7 days a week, including our kitchen, serving coffee, tea, espresso, fresh juices, smoothies, and grab-and-go takeout items. See ad, page 14.

Martial Arts

KUTZTOWN MARTIAL ARTS

Jeremy D. Schoener, Godan

240 W Walnut St • Kutztown 484-648-0404

KutztownMartialArts.com

Give your kids the lifelong gifts of personal success, confidence, discipline and self-defense. At KMA, we teach Japanese and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and specialize in guiding children in how to protect themselves against bullies.

Mattresses

Natural/Organic

GARDNER’S MATTRESS & MORE

830 Plaza Blvd • Lancaster 717-299-6228

GardnersMattressAndMore.com

Gardner’s is a locally owned mattress store offering a wide selection of quality natural and organic mattresses ranging from the luxurious to economical. Educating our customers on getting a good night’s sleep and the benefits of sleeping naturally and organically is our mission. To learn more and schedule sleep consultation, visit GardnersMattressAndMore.com/Natural.

WISE TRADITIONS IN FOOD, FARMING AND THE HEALING ARTS

The Weston A. Price Foundation teaches about healthy foods of the past and how to incorporate them in the present. We explain the science of why certain foods are healthy, where to get them and how to prepare them.

Request a free copy of our 28-page booklet about Dr. Weston A. Price’s research:

Timeless Principles of Healthy Traditional Diets: westonaprice.org/infopack (703) 820-3333 westonaprice.org

Meditation

THE YOGA PLACE

9 Hahnstown Rd • Ephrata 717-336-5299

TheYogaPlaceInEphrata.com

The Yoga Place is a friendly community dedicated to helping you find peace of mind and healing. We offer in-person and online yoga and meditation classes. We also provide services in Life Coaching, Grief Recovery and Yoga Therapy.

Native/Ecological Gardening

MAYAPPLE NATIVE LANDSCAPING

717-390-5832

Hello@MayappleNative.com

MayappleNative.com

We can help you turn your property into an inviting, sustainable, low-maintenance haven for you and the wildlife you love. Mayapple provides design and installation of pollinator-loving gardens, rain gardens, native meadows, natural stonework and more. Visit the website to book a consultation. See ad, page 10.

WAXWING

ECOWORKS CO.

Elyse Jurgen, MEd, CBLP 717-676-1045

WaxwingEcoWorks.com

Become a member: $40 $30/year for our quarterly journal and more. Use code NA30

Waxwing EcoWorks Co. offers native/ecological gardening consultation, design, build, stewarding and educational services to enhance human well-being and support dwindling wildlife populations. We work alongside you to make your vision come to fruition! Explore our website and online listing for more details. See ad, page 17.

WILDCRAFT LANDSCAPES

Nate Tietbohl, Owner, Designer 484-772-8012

Info@WildcraftLandscapes.com WildcraftLandscapes.com

We design, install and steward vibrant native landscapes that support healthy ecosystems and expand our clients’ connection to the natural world. We offer a wide array of services for projects of all sizes. HIC#:PA179637. See ad, page 14.

Naturopathic Doctor

HEALTH FOR LIFE

Ann Lee, ND, L.Ac 112 Cornell Ave • Lancaster 717-669-1050

DoctorNaturalMedicine.com

Learn how your symptoms are connected, get answers and achieve improved health and well-being as we facilitate your body’s ability to heal itself through acupuncture and naturopathic medicine. Special focus on hormone balancing and fertility (now offering DUTCH hormone testing).

Nutrition

FUNCTIONAL

HEALTH OF LANCASTER

Rileigh Smith, MS, CNS, LDN, CHHC 2207 Oregon Pk, Ste 301A • Lancaster Info@FH-Lancaster.com 717-490-6227 (call or text) FH-Lancaster.com

Taking a root cause approach to nutrition as part of your overall health and wellness, Rileigh offers expertise in the areas of cardiometabolic, gastrointestinal, renal, endocrine, bone disorders, insulin resistance, diabetes, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, food sensitivities, gastric reflux, SIBO, h. Pylori, candida overgrowth, chronic kidney disease, menopause, male health, osteoporosis and more. See ad, page 5.

NUTRITION FOR LIFE

Lori Borja, RN, MS, CNS 3933 Perkiomen Ave • Reading 610-779-4588 • SpineAndWellness.org

Clinical nutrition service based on a comprehensive assessment, each client receives a personalized treatment plan to help them re-balance and restore the body. Lori will provide specific recommendations for the client’s individual needs. One-on-one support is given to help clients reach their goals and live healthier lives. See ad, page 10.

Pet Care

TILL WE MEET AGAIN

In-home Pet Euthanasia 717-808-4654

TillWeMeetAgain.com

For some, euthanasia of their pet at the veterinary hospital is simply not an option. Dr. Mark Huber and his wife Stacey provide home euthanasia for dogs and cats in the most comfortable environment possible-your home-with the intention of bringing peace and comfort to ease the pain of losing a beloved pet. See ad, page 39.

Skincare

GSL ORGANICS

216 S Church St • Quarryville 717-844-1444

GSLOrganics.org

With over 25 years of experience, owner Candy St. MartinePack, a certified aromatherapist, formulates all skincare products using natural and organic ingredients to treat a variety of skin issues including, eczema, psoriasis and the effects of aging. See ad, page 29.

Sound Healing/Music

RESONATE YOU

Jen Lobo Rose Lititz/Lancaster ResonateYou@gmail.com ResonateYou.com

Jen Lobo Rose, a voice teacher for over 20 years, will help guide you to release your singing or sounding voice to help in your own personal well-being and healing. Offering private lessons, group classes and sound meditations.

SOUNDWISE SCHOOL OF HARMONIC THERAPY

SOUNDWISE HEALTH ASSOCIATES, LLC

Lana Ryder, Director and Senior Instructor, Sound School 313 W Liberty St, Suite 263 • Lancaster 610-301-4356

SoundwiseHealth.com

Our trained and experienced professional practitioners offer individual intuitive sound therapy sessions, group immersions, sonic massage, ReikiSound, ReikiVoice, and hospice CareSound. Also offering six-month sound school and individual classes for fundamental education in the art and science of sound healing. Sharing the healing power of sound, voice and music for 50 years.

Specialty Foods

KWEE-JACK FISH CO

Wild Alaskan Salmon & Halibut Shares 717-842-0180

EatWildSalmon.com

Sustainably harvested wild Alaskan seafood available, fisherman-direct. Preorder online seasonally for local pick-up of sushigrade delicious nutrition, deep-frozen at the peak of freshness to enjoy throughout the year.

MAMA’S SOFRITO

814-790-0380

MamasSofritos@gmail.com

MamaSofrito.com

Mama’s Sofrito creates highquality sofrito, chimichurri and chimichurri pepper made from 100% organic ingredients. Direct-toconsumer products are made fresh and immediately frozen, making the perfect base or complement for your delicious recipes. Order online for local delivery or pick-up.

Specialty Foods

MISTY CREEK GOAT DAIRY

43 W Eby Rd • Leola 717-656-4628

The Miller Family Farm offers milk, caramel, 15 varieties of quality cheeses and liquid, and bar soaps made from nourishing goat’s milk, known to be easier to digest and gentle on the skin. See ad, page 33.

Spirituality

URBAN WELL—A SOURCE FOR CONTEMPLATIVE SPIRITUALITY

Saint James Episcopal Church 119 N Duke St • Lancaster 717-397-4858 • UrbanWell.org

…where diverse people with different faiths gather in a spirit of humility and openness to learn from one another how to quiet the noise of everyday life, become more grounded and find energy, serenity and rest. See ad, page 9.

Therapeutic Writing

WRITE FROM THE HEART Creative Writing Workshops

Melissa Greene • Lancaster 717-393-4713 • WriteFromTheHeart.us

Our uplifting, be-who-you-are workshops awaken the creative spirit, gently, without intimidation. Taught in an atmosphere of warmth, whimsy and trust, they are a safe haven for all ages. Especially those who long to overcome perfectionism and self-doubt. No grades or red pen. Sharing optional. Mischief a must. See ad, page 4.

Thermal Imaging

AQUA BLUE WELLNESS CENTER

Lori Martin, BCNP 2435 Old Philadelphia Pike • Smoketown 717-656-8615

AquaBlueWellnessCenter.com

A family wellness center offering thermal imaging for breast and body, detox therapies, therapeutic and oncology massage, lymphatic drainage, a full-spectrum infrared sauna, nutritional education and more. Thermal imaging is a safe, non-invasive procedure for early detection of sources of pain, injury and disease. See ad, page 37.

SHALOM THERMOGRAPHY

Darlene Heath, DC, CTT

14 W Main St • Landisville 717-530-5555

HeathWellnessCenter.com

Thermography provides a non-invasive view of potential health concerns in the breast and body. Used as a risk assessment tool, thermography is able to detect inflammation and metabolic changes, and offers a proactive, preventionfocused approach to health care. See ad, page 20.

Yoga

BLDG.7 YOGA

220 North Park Rd, #7 Wyomissing 484-755-5705

Bldg7Yoga.com

A community-based yoga studio that offers something for everyone! BLDG. 7 includes three different practice rooms, a wide variety of daily classes, unique monthly workshops, free weekly mediation, plus options for children. We strive to create a safe space for our community to connect and live healthier together.

EMBODIED WISDOM INSTITUTE

845 Silver Spring Pl, Ste B • Lancaster 717-219-7163

EmbodiedWisdomInstitute.com

Our personal holistic wellness sessions and small group classes will help you foster balance, relaxation, and a renewed sense of wellbeing. Whether you seek the calm of meditation, the flow of yoga, the energy of qigong or the healing touch of massage therapy, our dedicated practitioners will guide you every step of the way. See ad, page 22.

KULA KAMALA FOUNDATION & YOGA ASHRAM

17 Basket Rd • Reading 484-509-5073

KulaKamalaFoundation.org

Kula Kamala Foundation is a nonprofit, non-sectarian spiritual center dedicated to mindfulness, non-violence, unity, and healing. Our public and professional programs serve people from all walks of life. No matter who you are, we have something special for you. OM. Peace. See ad, page 3.

MINDFUL YOGA AT SAINT JAMES

119 N Duke St • Lancaster 717-397-4858

SaintJamesLancaster.org/Yoga

A simpler style of yoga that helps achieve a higher level of connection with one’s mind, body and spirit by focusing on the present moment. Is suitable for a wide range of body types and abilities. Inperson and via Zoom. See ad, page 9.

THE YOGA PLACE

9 Hahnstown Rd • Ephrata 717-336-5299

TheYogaPlaceInEphrata.com

The Yoga Place is a friendly community dedicated to helping you find peace of mind and healing. We offer in-person and online yoga and meditation classes. We also provide services in Life Coaching, Grief Recovery and Yoga Therapy.

WEST END YOGA STUDIO

221 W Walnut St • Lancaster

WestEndYogaStudio@gmail.com

WestEndYogaStudio.com

A diverse yoga studio offering a full range of yoga, meditation and movement classes, in studio, outdoors and virtual. We are community-oriented, creating a welcoming learning environment dedicated to healing and compassion. All ages and levels welcome. Offering new student unlimited monthly passes and other discounts.

ZEN & FIT WITH SARA

1864 Oregon Pike • Lancaster

717-598-1628

ZenAndFitWithSara.com

Sara Esh is a certified health coach, personal trainer, and a yoga, Pilates, aerial silks and barre instructor. Her private and group classes are for all levels; any age, gender, shape and size. Each class leaves clients feeling motivated, inspired, refreshed and fulfilled.

Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.

—Leo Buscaglia

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