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Gynecological Care
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• Other GYN services
A breakthrough treatment is now available for incontinence and urinary urgency with a completely non-invasive option.
• Gentle Laser Therapy for Symptoms of Low Hormones or Menopause
• Treatment for Painful Intercourse
• Vaginal Itching, Irritation, Dryness
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• And More.....
The most minimal and safest way is available now! A new minimally invasive option for a hysterectomy procedure
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Decrease office exposure yet still be connected to Dr. Kennedy and staff. Most insurance now covers Televisits in the privacy of your own home.
DEPRESSION/ANXIETY
Depression/Anxiety and the hopelessness it brings can have a profoundly negative effect on everyday life, feeling helpless to make changes. Ketamine therapy can help you recover by allowing your brain to restore lost connections, conquer your fear, and restore the light in your life.
PTSD
PTSD brings with it nightmares, visions of former trauma, and a pattern of situational avoidance. Ketamine infusion therapy can help you move past your past and embrace your future so that you can live on your terms.
CHRONIC PAIN
Ketamine infusions have an extremely high efficacy rate and a small side effect profile. Patients can expect to experience significant relief even after the first infusion because we use up to seven different medications in a multi-modal approach to treating chronic inflammation.
HYPNOSIS
Read what our clients have to say:
“I had no idea hypnosis could do this! I went from a size 12 to a 4 in just six months!!! Hypnosis made it possible for me to ENJOY eating healthy, exercising, and relaxing my mind. I eat what I want, I’m not on any kind of diet, and oh my goodness…I like being thin!”
- Linda J-Milton
“I feel like a new woman in ALL areas of my life! I have a new and “much” improved attitude toward life, eating healthy, and exercise. Why did I wait so long to come here?”
- Lisa D-Pensacola
“When I came here, I was a hot mess with emotional baggage and health issues. I literally feel like a plug has been pulled out of my head to let all the garbage out. I feel lighter and more relaxed... Oh, and I’ve lost 40 lbs in 5 months!”
- Melinda G-Pensacola
Wow, what an event! As the autumn season unfolds, let’s pause to celebrate the unique and significant 8th annual Emerald Coast Holistic Health Expo, a remarkable event brought to you by Natural Awakenings magazine of Northwest Florida.
Held at our long-standing venue, the Destin/Ft. Walton Convention Center was blessed with perfect weather (no tropical surprises) and a stellar lineup of our area's top holistic practitioners and exhibitors. It was a weekend filled with positive energy, insightful discussions, and holistic healing.
The lineup was nothing short of spectacular. We were thrilled to welcome back familiar faces like Body Works by Bull, always a crowd favorite, along with Payne Chiropractic out of Destin, Reiki Healing by Joni, Berry Helm Massage Therapist and Healer, Happy and Healthy Feet, Regatta Chiropractic, Center for Pranic Healing, Three International, and Dr. Eddie Zant, MD, to name just a few. The knowledge and expertise under one roof were simply astounding. These practitioners were more than happy to answer the numerous questions from attendees, offering their insights with kindness and enthusiasm.
This year, we were fortunate to welcome several new exhibitors who quickly became popular with the crowd. Be Well Solutions in Destin, Emerald Coast Thermography, Jody Ryan Payne with FLOW and Skinny Drops, Bayside Hypnosis, Let’s Get Chillin’ Health and Wellness, and Healing Motion were just some of the exciting new additions that our attendees loved learning from. The Expo felt like a crescendo of holistic wisdom and energy, creating an atmosphere of inspiration and growth.
The holistic health product exhibitors were equally fantastic. From the beginning, Golden Almond, a supporter and sponsor, held their usual spot at the entrance. Other returning veterans included Centurion Labs, Essentially Bella, Dive into Wellness (DoTerra advocate), Oils 101 (Young Living), and MUV Medical Cannabis Dispensary.
New exhibitors added fresh energy to the event. Our bag sponsor, Vitamin Shop of Ft. Walton, was a hit, as were Fresh Cravez, Aromatantra, Skinny Drops, the popular Alimtox Wellness foot bath detox booth, and the Vibra Plate team, who quite literally shook up the place!
However, the true heroes of the Expo were the attendees. Their overwhelming praise for the event and our exceptional experience was infectious— from eagerly checking door prize tickets to calling friends and encouraging them to join. It’s these moments that validate our efforts, knowing that we at Natural Awakenings have positively impacted lives and contributed to a healthier, happier community.
And now, with great anticipation, we present the October issue, brimming with even more captivating content!
Enjoy! Daralyn & Scott
CONTACT US
P.O. Box 945
Destin, FL 32540
Ph: 850-687-0825
Scott@NaturalAwakeningsNWF.com
NaturalAwakeningsNWF.com
NORTHWEST FLORIDA EDITION
Publishers Daralyn Chase
Editors Erin Lehn
Ad Design Courtney Ayers
Sales & Marketing Scott Chase
Production Daralyn Chase
Cover image by Courtney Ayers
NATIONAL TEAM
CEO Kimberly B. Whittle
COO Michael Bevilacqua
CMO Vee Banionis
Sr. VP Operations Brian Stenzler, DC
National Sales Darleene Lee
National Editor Sandra Yeyati
Editor Brooke Goode
Copy Editor Melanie Rankin
Print Production Specialist Kevin Rankin
Website Kristy Mayer &
Design Director Agnes Mazeikaite
Production Flip180
Customer Service Dani Bucad
CONTACT US
Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 350 Main Street, Suite 9B Bedminster, NJ 07921 Ph: 239-206-2000
We can reduce or eliminate symptoms of depression. Our treatments often deliver improvement when nothing else has and 70 percent of our depression patients see symptoms reduced by at least 50 percent.
Drugs are not the only answer. Our unique approach is non-invasive and has helped dementia patients that originally scored poorly on cognitive assessments restore to normal scoring on the same assessments. Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive neurological evaluation to identify the potential for brain pathway improvement. Once a treatment program is put in place, many patients see notable improvements within a few weeks, but the benefits can last a lifetime.
EcoKids Environmental Event Returns to Pensacola
Pensacola’s third annual EcoKids event will take place on October 26, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Cordova Square. This free, family-friendly event aims to educate children about sustainability through fun and interactive activities. Combining art with environmental education, EcoKids offers hands-on experiences for children of all ages, including yoga for kids, upcycled art projects, an animal puppet parade, and much more.
“We’re thrilled to be hosting our third annual event,” says Ric Kindle, lead organizer from Earth Day Pensacola, the group behind EcoKids. “We’ve introduced a lot of new activities this year, making it even more enjoyable for children to learn about ecology and sustainable living.”
In addition to the activities, local musicians will perform live throughout the day, and children and families will have the chance to interact with local farmers and learn about organic practices and sustainability.
This year, EcoKids will share Cordova Square with the Pensacola Arts Market, a monthly event showcasing local vendors featuring handcrafted and eco-friendly products ranging from art and personal care to food.
Cost: Free and open to the public. Location: Cordova Square, 1101 N. 12th Ave., Pensacola. For more information, visit EcoKidsPensacola.com.
Paws and Celebrate at the Barktoberfest
Mark your calendar for a day of smiles, wagging tails, and community spirit.
The Pensacola Humane Society’s muchanticipated annual Barktoberfest event is scheduled for Sunday, October 27, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Seville Square. Dog lovers are invited to bring their furry companions for a day filled with canine activities, demonstrations, costume contests, and vendor booths.
Barktoberfest has earned its reputation as the must-attend event for local pet owners. Admission is free, making it accessible for all who want to join the fun while supporting a great cause. The event draws animal lovers from across the region, creating a vibrant community of dog enthusiasts.
This year’s festivities will feature a variety of pet-related fun aimed at both dogs and their owners. Costumed pets will have a chance to strut their stuff in the popular costume contest, and visitors can browse booths from vendors specializing in pet products and services.
Through this event, the Pensacola Humane Society hopes to raise awareness for homeless animals. Proceeds and donations from the event will support the organization’s mission of helping abandoned pets find loving homes.
For more information, contact the event organizers at barktoberfest@ pensacolahumane.org.
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Forever Chemicals Linked to Metabolic Disease
A study led by researchers from Pennsylvania State University and published in Environmental Health Perspectives evaluated the effects of early-life exposure to forever chemicals. The researchers focused on the effects of tetrachlorodibenzofuran (TCFD), a persistent organic pollutant, on a group of 4-week-old mice that were fed TCFD for five days, compared to the control group that did not ingest the chemical. They examined the animals’ gut microbiomes and other markers of metabolic disease after the initial five days and again three months later. The scientists found that the TCFD permanently disrupted the gut microbiome and caused a higher body weight and glucose intolerances after three months. These results suggest that human exposure to chemicals such as TCFD during childhood could contribute to metabolic disorders like obesity and Type 2 diabetes later in life.
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
Synthetic Protein May Slow Alzheimer’s Progression
Experiments on mice with Alzheimer’s at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) have made significant progress in slowing cognitive decline and improving memory, using a synthetic protein called PHDP5 delivered through the nasal cavity that can cross the blood-brain barrier to directly affect the memory center. Researchers believe this protein could also prevent Alzheimer’s symptoms if administered early in the disease’s progression.
Become a member: $40 $30/year for our quarterly journal and more. Use code NA30
Brain cell communications depend on the health of nerve synapses and synaptic vesicles, which need the protein dynamin to function properly. In Alzheimer’s, the tau protein, which usually stabilizes structures inside neurons, detaches and binds to dynamin, disrupting synaptic vesicle recycling and causing communication problems between neurons. As the disease progresses, tau forms tangles that further damage synapses. PHDP5 works by preventing tau from interacting with dynamin. Researchers note that turning this discovery into an approved treatment for humans will likely be a long process.
According to Alzheimer’s Disease International, the disease is expected to affect 78 million people by 2030 and 139 million by 2050 globally, leading to high economic costs. Alzheimer’s is a complex disease caused by a mix of genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors, making it hard to treat, especially after symptoms appear.
Hank Grebe from Getty Images
Evening Primrose May Ease Childbirth
Cervical ripening is the natural process of softening and opening the cervix before labor begins. Pregnant women that need labor induction, have an overdue pregnancy or encounter risks to their health or their baby’s health, such as preeclampsia or gestational diabetes, may need assistance ripening the cervix. In a study published by Complementary Medicine Research involving 96 low-risk women with term [39 to 40 weeks] pregnancies, half of the participants received a daily vaginal capsule of evening primrose oil prior to delivery; the other half received a placebo. The need for labor induction was significantly higher in the placebo group, showing that the vaginal use of evening primrose oil could be safe and effective for cervical ripening in low-risk, full-term pregnant women.
Why Have Colonic Hydrotherapy?
• Supports hydration of the colon.
• Elimination of waste matter in the gut.
• Approved preparation for colonoscopy.
• Relief of IBS symptoms or Gastrointestinal problems such as bloating and constipation.
• Colonic Hydrotherapy reaches the full length of the large intestine for a better cleanse and benefits Improves Digestion Health. Enjoy the fresh, light feeling and enhanced energy levels that often comes from the treatment.
Heike Brauer from Getty Images/CanvaPro
Studying Animals From Space
Just a Handy Kind of Guy!
Licensed • Insured • Affordable
“John Kelley was a professional from the first phone call until the work was done. He was true to his word.” – Kaye B.
“John is awesome! Quick service; excellent prices. Highly recommend!” – Paulette M.
“John has so far remodeled two bathrooms and a hallway for me. Painting, New flooring, shelving, drywall work, new toilets, you name it, he can do it. He’s reliable and on time.” – Michelle S.
In 2025, the Max Planck Society, a German research organization, plans to launch into space five miniature satellites, each the size of a Rubik’s Cube, as part of the International Cooperation for Animal Research Using Space (ICARUS) project, which is designed to track the movements and body temperature of tagged animals, as well as the surrounding air temperature, air pressure and wind speed. Tiny solar-powered tags and artificial intelligence applications will allow scientists to gather and evaluate data on migration, nesting and mating patterns, while also determining the environmental and human conditions that may lead to an animal’s death. Because of advancements in tagging modalities and ICARUS’s relatively low cost, tags may also be employed to follow more obscure species, as well as things such as glaciers and plastic debris.
claffra from
Getty Images/CanvaPro
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.
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.
Eraxion from Getty
from Getty
A HOLISTIC HEAD SPA
Boy Scouts Save Life Mid-Flight
On a Southwest Airlines flight to LaGuardia Airport, a flight attendant asked over the public address system if there was a doctor on board. Three doctors and a nurse responded to the request and began treating a man in cardiac arrest with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Because CPR is exhausting to do for more than a few minutes, the professionals needed help, at which point a group of boy scouts returning from the Philmont Scout Ranch, in New Mexico, jumped into action and helped perform CPR for 40 minutes until the plane was able to make an emergency landing in Pittsburgh.
To receive training and certification in this life-saving skill, contact the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association.
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, nearEarth asteroid reconnaissance missions or communications relays for crewed exploration missions.
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 sound-absorbing 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.
Upcoming Imaging Events
One ripens the apples, the other turns them to cider.
—Jane Hirshfield
Smashing Pumpkins
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Americans purchase 1.3 billion pounds of Halloween pumpkins and throw away more than 1 billion pounds, most of which winds up in landfills, where they release methane as they decompose. Diverting jack-o-lanterns away from landfills and turning them into compost can reduce the environmental footprint of this popular holiday tradition, thereby mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and enriching the soil.
Across the nation, people are hosting pumpkin smash parties to compost the spooky gourds. These events foster a sense of community spirit, provide a forum to discuss broader environmental issues and turn a post-Halloween chore into a fun, eco-friendly activity.
Planning Tips
• Time and Place: Schedule the party shortly after Halloween when people are looking to dispose of their pumpkins. Choose a centrally located area such as a public park, community center or school playground. Be sure to obtain any required permits and coordinate with the waste management department.
• Partnerships: Contact environmental groups, schools or businesses to help with logistics, promotion and the distribution of educational materials about composting and sustainability. Local farms or community gardens may be interested in receiving the composted pumpkins.
• Promotion: To attract participants, it is important to explain the purpose of the pumpkin smash and how it benefits the environment. Spread the word on social
media using engaging visuals and hashtags related to Halloween, pumpkins and sustainability. Design and distribute eye-catching flyers. Contact or send a press release to local newspapers, radio stations and TV channels.
Event Recommendations
• Smashing Station: Create a designated area for pumpkin smashing and offer instructions on how to safely smash the pumpkins. Be sure there are enough tools for everyone, including mallets, hammers or even baseball bats. Safety is paramount, so provide goggles and gloves for proper protection. Set up a first-aid station in case of any minor injuries.
• Compost Collection and Distribution: Create a designated area for compost collection and ensure there are clear signs directing participants to take their smashed pumpkins there. Coordinate with local farms or gardens for compost pickup. Ensure the area is thoroughly cleaned up, leaving no debris behind.
• Educational Booths: Set up stations where participants can learn about composting and the benefits of reducing food waste. Provide brochures, posters and hands-on demonstrations to engage both kids and adults, and consider inviting local experts to give short talks or answer questions.
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 allergen-free bakery. Infused with the best ingredients and dollops of love, desserts are more than just a tasty indulgence. They celebrate longheld 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 Yorkstyle 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.
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 dairy- and 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.
Deborah Bevilacqua is a regular contributor to Natural Awakenings.
Healthy never tasted so good! WHAT
WHY TAKE HONEYMED?
is True Nature’s Medicine with
IS HONEYMED?
HoneyMed is a delicious blend of raw honey and three powerful superfoods: Turmeric, Ginger and Cayenne pepper.
HOW DO I TAKE HONEYMED?
• As the main ingredient in your Morning Vitality Elixir. (HoneyMed + Warm Water + Lemon Juice)
• As a sweetener in your tea or coffee.
• On Cheese & Crackers with a glass of Wine
• In a craft cocktail; Drizzled over fruit or in yogurt
• On toasted bread with butter; Mixed in a salad dressing
Retailers may call or email us for wholesale orders: Honeymedbiz@gmail.com
Volcano Surprise Brownie Cupcakes
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
1 date, pitted
2 Tbsp coconut oil, melted
1 tsp gluten-free vanilla extract
BROWNIE MIXTURE
2 Hu brand chocolate bars (choice of hazelnut, cashew, almond or cashew raspberry)
1 cup smooth cashew butter
1 large egg
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
Preheat oven to 350°F.
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
Apple Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
YIELD: 8-10 SERVINGS
BASE
2½ cups almond flour
2 tsp ground ginger
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp Himalayan salt
⅓ cup melted coconut oil
⅓ cup maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
STRAWBERRY FILLING
2 cups fresh strawberries, quartered
2 tsp lemon juice
2 Tbsp maple syrup
RHUBARB FILLING
2 cups rhubarb stalks, sliced
1 Tbsp coconut sugar or maple syrup
RHUBARB FILLING
2 cups rhubarb stalks, sliced
1 Tbsp coconut sugar or maple syrup
APPLE FILLING
2 large honey crisp or pink lady apples, peeled and sliced thin
2 Tbsp coconut oil
2 Tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp lemon juice
CASHEW STRAWBERRY CREAM TOPPING
1 cup raw cashews
3 Tbsp boiling water
2 tsp lemon juice
½ tsp vanilla extract
2 Tbsp maple syrup
4 large fresh strawberries
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Mix all base dry ingredients together in a bowl until there are no lumps. In a separate bowl, mix the base wet ingredients. Add the wet ingredients to the bowl with the dry ingredients and blend with a fork to form a loose dough.
Grease a 9-inch pie dish with coconut oil. Gently pat the dough onto the bottom and sides of the pie dish. Place in oven for 10 to 12 minutes until light brown. Remove and let cool. Set aside.
Place strawberry filling ingredients in saucepan and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from stove and drain off fluid. Set strawberries aside to cool.
Place rhubarb filling ingredients in a saucepan, cover with water and simmer for 8 minutes. Drain off fluid and set aside to cool.
Place apple filling ingredients in a saucepan and simmer until the apple slices are slightly tender, approximately 5 to 8 minutes. Drain fluid and set aside.
Blend the cream topping ingredients together in a blender until smooth.
Arrange the apples in a circular pattern on the pie crust followed by the strawberries and rhubarb. Spread the cashew strawberry cream on top of the pie, sprinkle with cinnamon and serve.
Recipe and photo courtesy of Lynn Feder.
Courtesy of Lynn Feder
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 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 hypodermic 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 serum 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.
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.
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.
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New Horizons
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 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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SKINNY DROPS
Fair-Trade Environmentalism
How Our Purchases Help Workers and the Planet
by Megy Karydes
In a 2021 study by sustainability consultancy GlobeScan, 41 percent of U.S. respondents said they had changed their purchasing choices to make a difference on economic, social or environmental issues. Walk into a grocery store today and the likelihood of finding fair-trade coffee or chocolate is higher than five years ago. The same GlobeScan study found that about 80 percent of U.S. consumers were aware of the Fairtrade America certification, viewed it favorably and would pay up to 35 percent more for Fairtrade coffee. The trend is clear: people are increasingly seeing their everyday shopping as an important way to make a difference.
None of this is by accident. Large and small nonprofits—such as the Oxford Committee for Famine Relief (Oxfam) America, which fights global inequality to end poverty and injustice, and Chicago Fair Trade, a grassroots coalition—as well as independent retailers have been raising awareness by advocating on behalf of farmers and producers for years. Another growing trend in the fair-trade space is an understanding that environmental concerns need to be part of the conversation.
Sustainability Goals
Eric Muñoz, associate director for Inclusive and Resilient Food Systems at Oxfam America, notes one of the key issues of concern
for their organization is an acknowledgement that hunger and poverty are concentrated in rural areas. Fair-trade efforts address those inequalities while also supporting community engagement and dialogue, democratic participation in decision-making and women’s empowerment.
“Some of the poorest and most vulnerable communities and households are those that rely on agriculture for their livelihoods,” he remarks. “Farmers involved in or selling into global supply chains, or even regional or national value chains, find themselves at a disadvantage. They are least able to negotiate a good return on the cost of their goods, or access markets that are going to adequately compensate them for their work and benefit from their labor. Fair trade is an effort at getting at that issue.”
Environmental concerns are inextricably involved in fair-trade negotiations. Nancy Demuth, director of outreach for Chicago Fair Trade, cites the example of coffee bean farmers in East Africa that are dealing with the negative impacts that unpredictable weather patterns have on their yields. “Those farmers will be farming less, and that means they’re earning less money,” she explains. “If they are using unsustainable environmental techniques, then that might be negatively impacting their soil health, and in 10 to 20 years’ time, their soil will be less productive.” To be Fair Trade Certified, farmers must improve soil and water quality, avoid harmful chemicals and reduce waste and emissions.
Retailers Leading the Way
Since 2010, Tracy Zhu has been selling fair-trade items at her clothing shop, Tango Zulu, in Port Gamble, Washington, and about two years ago, many of her customers began to ask for environmentally responsible products. “There seems to be more awareness of the waste and pollution in the garment industry,” Zhu says. “People are interested in sustainable clothing and also items made from clothing scraps, like upcycled kantha dish towels [made of quilted rags].”
Melissa Kendrick of Sojourns, a fairtrade retailer in Birmingham, Alabama, has likewise changed her inventory to serve a burgeoning interest in conservation. “Upcycled items received lots of attention, and more and more, we saw customers reacting to the information we posted about sustainability aspects of our products,” she says. “Now we see them actively asking about and seeking out items that have a smaller environmental footprint. We even have a section in our online shop that highlights items that are exceptionally eco-friendly.”
Zhu and Kendrick are responding to a rising and vocal support for companies and brands that align with their interests and values. Consumers increasingly ask questions about issues beyond the working conditions or compensation of the people producing the items. They want to know how fair trade impacts the environment and are willing to shift their purchasing power accordingly.
Reducing Consumption
Dampening uncontrolled consumerism is also a concern. “Part of what we do is talk about stopping the madness of mindless consumption,” notes Katherine Bissell Cordova, executive director of Chicago Fair Trade. The nonprofit hosts free clothing swaps, fashion shows featuring recycled garments and opportunities to engage with other advocates at the Chicago Fair Trade Museum, the first of its kind in the U.S.
What consumers do makes a difference, and Demuth encourages individuals to do all they can where they live. “Pick something that is of interest to you and see if you can make one switch,” she recommends. “Do one thing to make a positive difference, rather than overwhelm yourself by trying to suddenly shop 100 percent ethical, because it’s impossible to do that in our society.”
Megy Karydes is a Chicago-based writer and author of 50 Ways to More Calm, Less Stress.
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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 syndrome, but also double crush syndrome, a condition associated with compression at more than one location along a nerve path.
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“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.
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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.
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
Carol Orsborn courtesy of Carol Orsborn
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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“My bones knock together at the pale joints, trying for foothold, fingerhold, mindhold,” wrote Mary Oliver in “Crossing the Swamp”, a visceral poem about finding opportunity to thrive from the bog of life’s dark challenges. If we live long enough, most of us experience a rising from the ashes after burning in the fires of loss, failure or trauma, but sometimes even the most sure-footed and resilient individuals can unexpectedly slip into a deep chasm of futility or questioning.
Dark nights of the soul can follow great periods of growth and clarity, descending upon even the strongest of psyches, rattling the bones with intensity. The black wave can come softly at first, simply inviting us
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to take inventory or retreat into contemplation. Other times, it sucks out our life force and swallows us whole upon impact.
Unlike other varieties of depression or contraction, the soul’s dark night submerges us until we surrender to metamorphosis. The gestation of a new self can be difficult, and it is easy to forget that the darkness in which we find ourselves is a nourishing womb. We just need to allow ourselves to experience the process.
Despite the internal urge to disengage from the world and curl into a fetal ball, finding support from spiritual mentors, trusted friends or family members is vital. Expressing our vulnerability can be the most frightening yet most sacred of acts that can light the way for a spirit that feels broken when it is actually breaking open.
Oliver compared herself to a “poor dry stick” in the great swamp, a bough that “after all these years, could take root, sprout, branch out, bud—make of its life a breathing palace of leaves.” We, too, can be reborn with a greater capacity to give and to receive—to reach into a heaven of possibility because our roots survived an unprecedented storm.
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at BluefireStudio.art.
Financial Planning for Pet Illnesses
How Pet Insurance Can Help
by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN
Although 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.
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
Yana Tikhonova from Getty Images/CanvaPro
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.
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: Coldwater 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
Robert Pavsic from Getty Images/CanvaPro
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 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.
Heal your back and joints with Prolotherapy, Platelet Rich Plasma Treatment & Stem Cell Therapy "proven safe and effective, less invasive, time and money savers"
Male Enhancement and erectile dysfunction, stress incontinence in women, using Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)
Sheila Davis, MD, Ph.D
Editorial Calendar
Three-Month Planner
Calendar of Events
Ongoing Events
Sunday
30A Farmers’ Market – 9am-1pm. Closed 12/25/2022 and 1/1/2023. Find local grassfed beef; whole chickens; eggs; goat milk; cheese; produce; hydroponic lettuce; herbs; microgreens; local and regional honey, including Tupelo honey; homemade from scratch breads, pies and pastries; pickled veggies; jams; salsas; BBQ sauces; pesto sauce; tuna and shrimp dips; and the best Maryland crab cakes you have ever had. In addition, beautifully handcrafted soaps. Free. 28 N Barrett Sq, Rosemary Beach. 850499-4697. 30AFarmersMarket@gmail.co. 30AFarmersMarket.com.
Free Yoga in Maritime Park – 9:3010:30am. First Sun of the month. Sponsored by Breathe Yoga and Wellness Center, this one-hour yoga class is open to all ages and experience levels. BYOM (bring your own mat), water, and other props you enjoy. Community Maritime Park, 301 W Main St, Pensacola. Facebook.com/PlayPColaParks.
Community Yoga Class – 4:30-5:30pm. Enjoy a yoga class and support a charity at the same time, with donations for this class going to PAWS, Children in Crisis, Headstart, Southern Dog Rescue and more. Donations accepted. Dragonfly Yoga Studio, 184 Brooks St, Ste 2, FWB. DragonflyYoga.com.
Monday
Veterans Talking Circle – noon-1pm. For and by veterans discussing veteran issues that affect your daily life. Free. Roots Shoppe, 357 Beal Pkwy NW, FWB. 850863-1044. RootsShoppe.com.
Celebrate Recovery – 6pm. Open to everyone as a safe place to heal from hurts, habits and hang-ups. This is a 12step program that uses the traditional steps and 8 Principles in the Beatitudes from the bible. We recognize Jesus Christ as our higher power. Dinner is also available from 5:15-5:45pm, $5-adults, $3-children, and no one turned away. Community Life Church, 4115 Soundside Dr, Gulf Breeze. Facebook. com/CRatCommunityLifeChurch/
Tuesday
Okaloosa County Farmers’ Market –7am-2pm. Tue, Thur & Sat. Find seasonal vegetables, fruits and flowers. Free. 1954 Lewis Turner Blvd, Fort Walton Beach. 850-689-5850.
Downtown FWB Farmers’ Market –8am-1pm. 2nd and 4th Sat. Find seasonal vegetables, fruits, handcrafted jams, hot sauces and local honey. Free. 139 Brooks St SE, FWB.
Mirko
Refuge Recovery Meeting – 6:307:30pm. A Buddhist-oriented, nontheistic recovery program offering recovery from all forms of addiction. Free. Roots Shoppe, 357 Beal Pkwy NW, FWB. RefugeRecovery.org.
Let’s Talk about Gut Health (Zoom) – 7pm. Weekly discussions about gut health and why it matters. Also, we will discuss the science f the microbiome and disease. Free. Email to register: PCBPlexus@gmail.com.
Wednesday
‘Movers’ & ‘Shakers’ Low Impact Dance Fitness – 9-9:45am. Wed. Join instructor Emily Mixon for an interactive and low impact dance class for seniors 55+. Free. Bayview Senior Center, 2000 E Lloyd Street, Pensacola. 850-436-5190.
Friday
Walton County Farmers Market – 1-5pm. Find locally grown fruits; vegetables; grassfed meat; local vendors; and small businesses. Free. 3001 Brown Rd, Defuniak Springs. 850834-2084. PonceDeLeonFL.com.
Essential Oils for Beginners – 6:30pm every 3rd Friday. Culver's in FWB hosts an Essential Oils class for both humans and pets. Natural ways to improve your health. HH Arts, 100 Beal Pkwy, FWB. 850-543-1619.
Saturday
Grand Boulevard Farmers’ Market –9am-1pm. Find grass-fed beef, whole chickens, eggs, goat milk, cheese, produce, hydroponic lettuce, herbs and microgreens. Also, the best honey, including Tupelo honey; homemade from scratch breads, pies and pastries; pickled veggies; jams; salsas; BBQ sauces; pesto sauce; tuna and shrimp dips; and the best Maryland crab cakes you have ever had. In addition, beautifully handcrafted soaps. Free. Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, 600 Grand Blvd (in Grand Park between Tommy Bahama and Cantina Laredo), Miramar Beach. 850-4994697. 30AFarmersMarket@gmail.com. GrandBoulevardFarmersMarket.com.
Niceville Florida Community Farmers’ Market – 9am-1pm. Local and regional produce, honey, mushrooms, farm fresh eggs, bakery items, teas, fresh local seafood and hand-crafted jewelry. Free. Palm Plaza, 1003 C. John Sims Pkwy, Niceville.
Palafox Market – 9am-2pm. Find live plants; local fruit; vegetables; herbs; fine art; and antiques. Free. Martin Luther King Jr. Plaza on N Palafox St between Wright St and Garden St, Pensacola. 850-4345371. PalafoxMarket.com.
Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our community.
Brain Health BE WELL SOLUTIONS/DESTIN KETAMINE SOLUTIONS
4641 Gulfstarr Dr, #105, Destin 850-786-2051
CompleteKetamineDestin@gmail.com
CompleteKetamineSolutions.com
Navarre Acupuncture and Wellness: Bridging the gap to optimal health with acupuncture, dry needling, moxibustion, cupping, injection therapy, and lifestyle guidance.
ORGANIC CONCEPTS BY CAMY AT LE VOGUE SALON
609 W Chase St, Pensacola 850-582-0177
CamyKilker@gmail.com
Providing an organic solution to beauty in a world full of chemicals. Organic Salon Systems gives you clean and healthy hair with ammonia-free hair color and chemical-free styling products. See ad, page 16.
KarenKennedyMD.com
SculpSure is a non-surgical laser treatment for the reduction of stubborn fat in areas like the abdomen, love handles, back, and inner and outer thighs; and chin contouring. Amazing results with zero down time and without drugs. See ad, page 2.
Bodyworks
CAROL
THOMAS LMT, CST AT NAVARRE HEALING ARTS
7552 Navarre Pkwy Ste, Ste 44, 850-936-5300
NavarreHealingArts.com
Specializes in balancing mind, body, and spirit with more than 30 years of experience in lymphatic drainage, orthopedic relief of chronic pain and sportsrelated injuries, cupping, pre-natal, structural integration, and myofascial release. MA83196 / MM38857
Fourteen tunes in 59 minutes is the premise for a unique program of eclectic music. It’s audio without borders. Pop, world, acoustic, electric—a mix of songs you simply won’t hear anywhere else on the radio (or anyplace else for that matter). Produced locally by host Joe Vincenza. Try it. You’ll like it!
Fridays 8 PM on WUWF 88.1 FM or wuwf.org.
Learn more and find the full list of WUWF programs at wuwf.org/programs.
Ketamine Therapy has clinically been proven to help with depression, brain health, PTSD, and other issues that lead to depression. Affordable treatments include IV hydration and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. See ad, page 3
MIND PERFORMANCE CENTER, LLC
(Located inside Path to Wellness) 240 W Laurel Ave, Foley, AL 251-597-8787
MindPerformanceCenter.com
Our non-invasive, drug-free approach helps brain injury patients improve speech, balance, limb and finger control, memory and mental focus, plus the restoration of personality traits. See ad, page 10.
REGENERATION STATION
7170 N 9th Ave, Pensacola 850-542-1970
Regenerationstation850.com
The application of the Energy Enhancement System and Brain Tap sessions allows you to relax and recharge in a room filled with amazing energy and give your body the energy it needs to heal itself. People have reported improvement in Autism, brain fog, chronic fatigue, depression, MS, nervous system disorders, dementia, Alzheimer’s, and pain relief. See ad, page 6.
Breast Screening
EMERALD COAST THERMOGRAPHY
Located in Miramar Beach & Gulf Breeze 850-980-1005
We are passionate about educating people on the importance of routine health screenings using 100% Radiation-Free, touch-free, state-of-the-art infrared cameras. Call or email us for more information; you may also book your appointment online. See ad, page 19.
RADIANT BODY THERMOGRAPHY
Candace Parmer
Clinical Thermographic Technician
503-775-1812
RadiantBodyThermography.com
CBD Oil
Call to learn how we can assist you and your doctor in protecting breasts from disease, excess hormonal activity and over diagnos breast cancer. See ad, page 17.
Providing the largest selection of CBD oils, tinctures, sprays, softgels, balms and vape liquid in the area, including high-dose options for pain, anxiety, sleep and much more. See ad, page 5.
Chiropractic
HENARD FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC
Dr Karen Henard-Carter, DC 4566 Hwy 20 E, Ste 205, Niceville 850-897-1105 • HenardChiro.com
A second-generation chiropractor, Dr Henard is committed to chiropractic wellness for the family, improving health naturally. More than 23 years’ experience in pediatrics, sports and automobile injuries. Most insurance accepted and affordable cash plans.
Counseling
FLOW FREE AND CLEAR
167-C Brooks St SE 850-499-4418
DR GABRIEL WATERMAN, DC
850-565-9600
Info@DiscoverDynamic.com DiscoverDynamic.com
Dr. Gabriel and his team focus on the nervous system: the brain, spinal cord, nerves and the spinal structure that protects this delicate system—essential to the body’s ability to function, restore and preserve health. We help individuals and families overcome health obstacles and reach their fullest health potential. See ad, page 25.
Cleaning Products
NORWEX
Abbie Robinson
850-341-9211
AbbieRobinson.norwex.biz
A deeper clean with only water for a healthier home with fewer harmful chemicals, less plastic and less worry. Text or call Abbie for more information. See ad, page 29.
Colon Irrigation
COYLE INSTITUTE
9295 Scenic Hwy, Pensacola 850-637-8258
CoyleInstitute.com
Colon Hydrotherapy (CHT)—a safe process for colon cleansing. CHT works by gently introducing warm water into the colon for the purpose of softening and eliminating waste. Under the direction of Dr. Michael Coyle, DO, our patients are in the best possible hands. Call to schedule your session today. See ad, page 13.
FlowFreeAndClear.com
Rapid Resolution is a specialized protocol designed to clear the lingering effects of emotional disturbance.This is a lifechanging conversation. See ad, page 27.
Craniosacral
CAROL THOMAS LMT, CST AT NAVARRE HEALING ARTS
7552 Navarre Pkwy Ste, Ste 44, 850-936-5300
NavarreHealingArts.com
Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, hands-on approach that releases tension deep in the body to relieve pain and dysfunction and improve whole-body health. It alleviates the aches and pains of life, trauma recovery from whiplash, fibromyalgia, TMJ, scoliosis, anxiety, and stress-related disorders, to name a few. MA83196/ MM38857.
Dementia
MIND PERFORMANCE CENTER (Located inside Path to Wellness) 240 W Laurel Ave, Foley, AL 251-597-8787
MindPerformanceCenter.com
Our non-invasive, drug-free approach helps dementia patients that originally scored in the teens on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment be restored to the point of scoring normal (26-30). See ad, page 10.
Depression BE WELL SOLUTIONS/DESTIN KETAMINE SOLUTIONS
4641 Gulfstarr Dr, #105, Destin 850-786-2051
CompleteKetamineDestin@gmail.com
CompleteKetamineSolutions.com
Ketamine Therapy has clinically been proven to help with depression, brain health, PTSD, and other issues that lead to depression. Affordable treatments include IV hydration and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. See ad, page 3.
MIND PERFORMANCE CENTER
(Located inside Path to Wellness)
240 W Laurel Ave, Foley, AL
251-597-8787
MindPerformanceCenter.com
Offering Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Brainsway—a proven tool in the fight against depression that is non-invasive, painless and drug-free) with functional medicine and brain pathway rehabilitation for the most robust changes possible. See ad, page 10.
REGENERATION STATION
7170 N 9th Ave, Pensacola 850-542-1970
Regenerationstation850.com
The application of the Energy Enhancement System and Brain Tap sessions allows you to relax and recharge in a room filled with amazing energy and give your body the energy it needs to heal itself. People have reported improvement in autism, brain fog, chronic fatigue, depression, MS, nervous system disorders, dementia, Alzheimer’s, and pain relief. See ad, page 6.
Energy Healing
REGENERATION STATION
7170 N 9th Ave, Pensacola 850-542-1970
Regenerationstation850.com
Elevate your vitality by harnessing the power of our energy enhancement system for relaxation and selfhealing. Users report improved health with conditions such as arthritis, autism, depression, diabetic neuropathy, brain fog, and more through this rejuvenating process. See ad, page 6.
THE
NEW YOU MIRACLE BAND
Jeff Nursey, Customer Service Sales@tnymb.com 850-207-6621 • TNYB.com
Change your frequency, change your life. Our products have an integrated charged disk to protect against 5G and EMFs along with the added benefits of alleviating pain and improving strength and balance. See ad, back cover.
Farmers’ Markets
30A FARMERS’ MARKETS
850-499-4697
30AFarmersMarket.com
Locations:
•30A Farmers’ Market at Palm Plaza
1003C John Sims Pwy, Niceville
9am-1pm Saturdays (Year Round)
•Sandestin
Grand Boulevard Hwy 98
600 Grand Blvd, Miramar Beach
9am-1pm Saturdays (Year Round)
Serene, beautiful, distinctive and exclusive is the best way to describe the 30A Farmers’ Market Family. European and coastal-inspired markets feature local farmers, makers, bakers, and specialty vendors in an inviting market experience. See ad, page 21..
Food & Supplements
BODY-B-HEALTHY
Natural Alternative Wellness Center 2225 S Ferdon Blvd, Crestview 850-682-8893 • Find us on Facebook
We offer cutting-edge. t e s t i n g / s c r e e n i n g s , iridology and wellness coaching, along with all natural supplements, homeopathic solutions and anti-aging products. Let our knowledgeable staff can help guide your selection of trusted products.
EARTHQUAKE EDDIE BEE
Pollen Based Nutritional Supplements 112 E Shipwreck Rd, Santa Rosa Beach 850-582-6765
Info@EEBSF.com
We utilize bee pollen, Royal Jelly and other plant-based foods that are full of life-sustaining nutrients in all of our formulations. Our formulations include a generous portion of bee pollen due to its active role in promoting a strong immune system, increased energy and an overall feeling of good health. See ad, page 16.
Natural supplements, herbs, skin care and essential oils, plus organic and specialty foods. In-store 100% organic café (weekdays 9-4) with juices, smoothies, etc. Very knowledgeable staff. See ad, page 5.
HONEYMED
Your LOCAL Honey with Spice 850-822-8154
HoneyMedBiz@gmail.com HoneyMedBiz.com
HoneyMed is a delicious blend of raw honey and three powerful superfoods: turmeric, ginger and cayenne pepper. HoneyMed is true nature’s medicine with anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, revitalizing and immunity-boosting properties. See ad, page 21.
STAFF OF LIFE HEALTH FOOD STORE
(New Location)
1107 E John Sims Pkwy, Niceville 850-678-8411
Niceville's only fully stocked health food and supplement store. In our new expanded location providing all of your favorite brands, and hard-to-find products to keep you healthy. We also carry local farm-raised beef (grass-fed & finished), pork, chicken, eggs and dairy products. Knowledgeable staff. See ad, page 11.
THE VITAMIN SHOPPE-FWB
417 Mary Esther Cutt Off NW 850-243-0009
Insta: VitaminShoppeFortWaltonBeach
Enjoy 20% Off Monthly on the 28th (all 1st responders, EMT and hospital workers.) 20% off Military Monday’s. Enjoy 20% Off Monthly on the 7th for all teachers, educators and staff. See ad, page 37.
Handyman
KELLEY HANDYMAN SERVICES LLC
John and Sherri Kelley-Owners KelleyHandyman@gmail.com 850-378-6262
KelleyHandyman.com
BBB members, licensed and insured to perform all types of Handy Man repairs including cabinets, painting, drywall, trim, bathrooms and kitchens. Honest, affordable and with a smile we provide estimates you can count on. See ad, page 14.
Healing Jewelry
THE NEW YOU MIRACLE
BAND
Jeff Nursey, Customer Service Sales@tnymb.com 850-207-6621 • TNYB.com
Change your frequency, change your life. Our products have an integrated charged disk to protect against 5G and EMFs along with the added benefits of alleviating pain and improving strength and balance. See ad, back cover.
Health Coach
FLOW WITH ANIESE
224-234-4996
FlowWithAniese.com
IG: @FlowWithAniese
Empowering your wellness journey with personalized guidance, sustainable habits, and holistic health strategies for a balanced and vibrant life. See ad, page 13.
Health Insurance
HEALTH INSURANCE
Michael Denniston
Serving all of Northwest Florida 850-819-3438
info@MikeDenniston.com
Medicare Parts A, B, C, D. Medicare Supplement plans, MAPD Medicare Advantage. PDP plans, Zero premium plans, Gap plans, Burial Insurance, Critical Illness Insurance. See ad, page 14.
KarenKennedyMD.com
Board Certified Gynecologist MD, offering full GYN services and proud to feature MonaLisa Touch Laser, a non-invasive treatment for symptoms of low hormones or menopause. Stop suffering and start living. Call for an appointment. Offices in Gulf Breeze and Navarre. See ad, page 2.
REGENERATION STATION
7170 N 9th Ave, Pensacola
850-542-1970
Regenerationstation850.com
Our bodies are energy, and our cells need energy to function. the energy enhancement system allows you to relax, recharge, and give your body the energy it needs to heal itself! people have reported improvement in arthritis, autism, auto-immune disorders, blood disorders, brain fog, chronic fatigue, depression, diabetes and diabetic neuropathy, fibromyalgia, injury recovery, Lyme, MS, nervous system disorders, and pain relief. See ad, page 6.
Home Repair
KELLEY HANDYMAN
SERVICES LLC
John and Sherri Kelley-Owners
KelleyHandyman@gmail.com 850-378-6262
KelleyHandyman.com
Hormone Therapy
AGELESS SOLUTIONS
Cave, MD • Barber, MD
Janis Cook, RN 8990 Ortego Park Dr, Navarre 850-529-0770
Ageless Navarre.com
We offer multiple techniques and programs to get you on the right track to better health and a better body. Our services include behavioral therapies, nutritional strategies, hormone replacement pellet therapy, stem cell therapy, prescription medications and, best of all, the support of a caring staff. See ad, page 29.
Board Certified Gynecologist MD, offering full GYN services and proud to feature MonaLisa Touch Laser, a non-invasive treatment for symptoms of low hormones or menopause. Stop suffering and start living. Call for an appointment. Offices in Gulf Breeze and Navarre. See ad, page 4.
Hot Yoga Studio
HOT YOGA OM
222 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Unit A Downtown Fort Walton Beach 850-430-9434 • HotYogaOM.com
BBB members, licensed and insured to perform all types of Handy Man repairs including cabinets, painting, drywall, trim, bathrooms, and kitchens. Honest, affordable and with a smile we provide estimates you can count on. See ad, page 14.
Hot Yoga Om features far infrared heat, radiant heat, radiant life. Daily classes, amazing teachers, great benefits. Experience it for yourself. See ad, page 35.
All the trees are losing their leaves, and not one of them is worried.
—Donald Miller
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
BE WELL SOLUTIONS/DESTIN KETAMINE SOLUTIONS
4641 Gulfstarr Dr, #105, Destin 850-786-2051
CompleteKetamineDestin@gmail.com
CompleteKetamineSolutions.com
Ketamine Therapy has clinically been proven to help with depression, brain health, PTSD, and other issues that lead to depression. Affordable treatments include IV hydration and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. See ad, page 3.
Hypnosis
BAYSIDE HYPNOSIS
700 S Palafox St, Ste 200A, Pensacola Michelle@BaysideHypnosis.com
BaysideHypnosis.com
A full-service weight-loss, smoking-cessation, and anxiety-reduction center. We also help people with changing habits, personal development, confidence and self esteem improvement. See ad, page 7.
Ketamine Therapy
BE WELL SOLUTIONS/DESTIN KETAMINE SOLUTIONS
4641 Gulfstarr Dr, #105, Destin 850-786-2051
CompleteKetamineDestin@gmail.com
CompleteKetamineSolutions.com
Ketamine Therapy has clinically been proven to help with depression, brain health, PTSD, and other issues that lead to depression. Affordable treatments include IV hydration and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. See ad, page 3.
Metaphysical Shop
STONE SOUP INTUITIVE SPIRITUAL CENTER
314 Carmel Dr, FWB
850-533-6565
IntuitiveSpiritualCenter@gmail.com
Fort Walton’s newest eclectic intuitive center.
Locally made crafts by local artisans. Intuitive readings, jewelry, paintings, incense, crystals, pottery, semi-precious stones, wind chimes, diaper cakes and hand-painted furniture. See ad, page 17.
Myofascial Release
LAURA TYREE
Myofascial Release Massage Therapist LauraTyree Health in Hot Yoga Om (Downtown FWB) 850-642-1015 • LauraTyree.com
A healing sanctuary that relieves stress and alleviates damage caused by tension and strain. Fostering physical, mental and emotional relaxation while performing postures and breathing techniques with the underlying philosophy and relaxed attitude continuing outside of the studio into life. Classes for all levels and private classes upon request. See ad, page 35.
Physicians
COYLE INSTITUTE
KAREN KENNEDY, MD
Board-Certified Gynecologist
Dr. Michael Coyle, DO FACOOG, FPMRS 9295 Scenic Hwy, Pensacola 850-637-8258
CoyleInstitute.com
Dr. Coyle offers an unparalleled level of medical care to women all over the Gulf Coast, hoping that, in providing his patients with treatment and relief from the conditions that have so greatly affected their ability to live free from pain, he is offering them renewed hope and enriching their lives. See ad, page 13.
A medical clinic that treats pain naturally through remedies such as prolotherapy, prolozone, ozone, platelet-rich plasma and stem cell treatments. See ad, page 39.
It is mental slavery to cling to things that have stopped serving its purpose in your life.
Board-Certified Gynecologist MD, offering full GYN services and proud to feature MonaLisa Touch Laser, a non-invasive treatment for symptoms of low hormones or menopause. Stop suffering and start living. Call for appointment. Offices in Gulf Breeze and Navarre. See ad, page 2.
Pilates Studio
PURE PILATES
Gulf Breeze Proper
221 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, 850-932-3424
Downtown Pensacola
426 S Palafox, 850-607-2772
PurePilatesPensacola.com
Reiki
Join us at Pure to experience the largest Pilates studio on the coast. Variety of equipment and mat classes are offered 6 days a week. Tone your core with Pure.
FELICIA CRAWFORD
850-240-9180
TherapyForTheSoul.org
Therapy for the Soul sessions are a combination of Reiki energy healing, medical intuition, ThetaHealing and Channeled Angelic communication customized and personalized for each client. See ad, page 4.
Spiritual Center Gifts
STONE SOUP INTUITIVE SPIRITUAL CENTER
314 Carmel Dr, FWB 850-533-6565
IntuitiveSpiritualCenter@gmail.com
Fort Walton’s newest eclectic intuitive center. Locally made crafts by local artisans. Intuitive readings, jewelry, paintings, incense, crystals, pottery, semi-precious stones, wind chimes, diaper cakes and hand-painted furniture. See ad, page 17.
UNITY OF PENSACOLA
Jamie Sanders, Minister
3298 Summit Blvd, Ste 16
850-438-2277
UnityOfPensacola.org
Unity of Pensacola offers spiritual teachings that empower abundant and meaningful living. We provide philosophy that is spiritual, not religious, and love-based, not fear-based. Rev Jamie Sanders offers spiritual counseling. See ad, page 41.
Stem Cell Therapy is utilized to seek out inflammation in the body and regenerate any damaged tissue, applying our body’s natural internal repair system. Our services include behavioral therapies, nutritional strategies, hormone replacement pellet therapy, stem cell therapy, prescription medications and, best of all, the support of a caring staff. See ad, page 29.
Thermography
EMERALD COAST THERMOGRAPHY
Located in Miramar Beach & Gulf Breeze
850-980-1005
EmeraldCoastThermography@gmail.com
EmeraldCoastThermography.com
We are passionate about educating people on the importance of routine health screenings using 100% Radiation-Free, touch-free, state-of-the-art infrared cameras. Call or email us for more information; you may also book your appointment online. See ad, page 19.
RADIANT BODY THERMOGRAPHY
Candace Parmer
Clinical Thermographic Technician 503-775-1812
RadiantBodyThermography.com
Medical Infrared (MIR) technology developed by NASA provides an early, objective warning system that may show neurochemical signals far in advance of damage to the body. See ad, page 17.
Theta-Healing
FELICIA CRAWFORD
850-240-9180
TherapyForTheSoul.org
Therapy for the Soul sessions are a combination of Reiki energy healing, medical intuition, ThetaHealing and Channeled Angelic communication customized and personalized for each client. See ad, page 4.
LAURA TYREE
ThetaHealing Healer
LauraTyree Health in Hot Yoga Om (Downtown FWB) 850-642-1015 • LauraTyree.com
ThetaHealing is a meditation technique and spirituality philosophy, accepting of all religions, with the purpose of getting closer to your beliefs Creator. A holistic healing technique allowing you to clear limiting beliefs with meditation and prayer. See ad, page 35.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
MIND PERFORMANCE CENTER, LLC
(Located inside Path to Wellness) 240 W Laurel Ave, Foley, AL 251-597-8787
MindPerformanceCenter.com
BAYSIDE HYPNOSIS
700 S Palafox St, Ste 200A, Pensacola
Michelle@BaysideHypnosis.com
BaysideHypnosis.com
Hypnotic weight-loss works because it combines common sense, realistic nutrition, and teaches how to think like a naturally thin person with the most advanced hypnotic technology available, performed by skilled, experienced master hypnotists. See ad, page 7.
FLOW WITH ANIESE
224-234-4996
FlowWithAniese.com
IG: @FlowWithAniese
Achieve lasting weight loss with tailored goals, mindful eating, and supportive coaching. Balance, health, and confidence start here. See ad, page 13.
SLENDERIIZ® SKINNY DROPS
167-C Brooks St SE
850-499-4418
DTMS increases the brain’s ability to regenerate and release neurotransmitters. We pair this with brain pathway correction and the nutritional program of Alzheimer’s researcher Dale Bredesen for quick, profound, positive results. See ad, page 10.
Weight Management
AGELESS SOLUTIONS
8990 Ortega Park Dr, Navarre 850-529-0770
AgelessNavarre.com
More than 20 years of medical assistance with a weight-loss program that helps you reach your perfect weight while maintaining your energy and health. See ad, page 29.
Slenderiiz® provides a cutting-edge advantage to weight loss. Safe, effective and long lasting, these drops easily fit into your onthe-go lifestyle with proven weight loss results. See ad, page 27.
Yoga Studios
DRAGONFLY YOGA
STUDIES
184 Brooks St SE, Bldg 2 Downtown FWB • 850-244-0184
DragonFlyYoga.com
Serene environment for the study and practice of hatha yoga. Certified instructors. Owner/Director Laura Tyree, E-RYT 500. See ad, page 35.
HOT YOGA OM
222 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Unit A Downtown FWB • 850-430-9434
HotYogaOM.com
Hot Yoga Om features far infrared heat, radiant heat, radiant life. Daily classes, amazing teachers, great benefits. Experience it for yourself. See ad, page 35.
PAIN RELIEF THAT PAIN RELIEF THAT WORKS! WORKS!
CHANGE YOUR CHANGE YOUR FREQUENCY FREQUENCY
CHANGE YOUR CHANGE YOUR LIFE LIFE
"Future medicine will be the medicine of frequencies.”
ALBERT EINSTEIN
ALLEVIATE PAIN FROM ALLEVIATE PAIN FROM ARTHRITIS, ARTHRITIS, FIBROMYALGIA, FIBROMYALGIA, CARPAL TUNNEL, CARPAL TUNNEL, AND OTHER JOINT AND OTHER JOINT AND BODY ACHES AND BODY ACHES ALLEVIATE SEASICKNESS ALLEVIATE SEASICKNESS
IMPROVES YOUR IMPROVES YOUR STRENGTH AND BALANCE STRENGTH AND BALANCE
