Natural Awakenings NYC-Long Island, July 2023

Dr. Howard Robins has been helping people using Ozone Therapy for over 32 years and is considered by many to be the foremost clinical expert in North America on Bio-oxidative Therapies for the SAFE and EFFECTIVE natural treatment of diseases and illness with over 400,000 treatments performed.

DIV Ozone Therapy has successfully treated Herpes I and II, HIV, Diabetic ulcers/ neuropathy, Allergies, Chronic Fatigue with Fibromyalgia, Candidiasis, MS, RA, Lyme Disease, Arthritis, Shingles, Skin infections, Psoriasis, and now RSD/CRPS just to name a few diseases and conditions.

Co-Publishers Cyrece Lehrman Michael Lehrman

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Olga Isaeva DDS, IBDM Paola Lomba DDS

Happy birthday to me! July has always been a favorite—and not just because of my birthday, which falls on Bastille Day, but because it signifies summertime! This is when all the delicious foods of my youth are in abundance. This is a month that beckons me to relish nostalgic memories of the season, like the farm stands along the sides of the country roads bearing fresh off-the-vine fruits and veggies.

I remember my father stopping to get fresh-picked corn-on-the-cob, ripe tomatoes, and watermelon—the colors of a rainbow. Back then, we just ate what we loved and didn’t give much thought to how good it was for us. I’m sure whenever we ate that farm-fresh produce, our bodies felt so nourished. The “Hues of Health” article on page 32 shows the enormous benefits of eating foods with color.

However, as most parents know, getting kids to eat like this is challenging. I remember our boys typically ate a lot of brown or tan foods—chicken nuggets, pasta, French fries, hamburgers, etc. You know, “kid food”, because adding something green would make them run for the hills. I grew up with parents who tended to a small garden in our backyard that produced zucchini, tomatoes, cucumbers, mint, carrots and lettuce. They both took much pride in using their fresh-grown veggies, so the farm-to-table movement began before it had a name. My mother often asked my father to take pictures of her holding massive zucchinis that she would frequently not keep. Both of my parents loved to share their crop with our neighbors, who, in return, would share their garden treats. I took it for granted when I was a kid that everybody grew gardens and didn’t think about the reasons why they did. As an adult, I’ve often wondered if they chose to grow their own food because of a tight budget. Was it a financial necessity? Or, was their gardening born from a natural desire to see if they had a green thumb? I’ll never know. Thankfully, now that our boys are older, they have found their way with some nudging as to which vegetables they like and will eat consistently.

As for me, I’ll continue to think of July as my month to enjoy fruits with the colors of our flag—mouth-watering watermelon, blueberries and bananas—with wild abandon. Happy 4th of July! And remember to eat your colors.

Cyrece

mission statement

mission statement

To empower individuals to live a healthier lifestyle on a healthier planet.

To empower individuals to live a healthier lifestyle on a healthier planet.

To educate communities on the latest in natural health and sustainability.

To educate communities on the latest in natural health and sustainability.

To connect readers with local wellness resources and events, inspiring them to lead more balanced lives.

To connect readers with local wellness resources and events, inspiring them to lead more balanced lives.

Cleansing Concepts Now Offering Stem Cell Rejuvenation Technology

Vanessa

Drew, founder of Cleansing Concepts, is excited to announce that Cleansing Concepts has partnered with Lifewave to bring their customers the latest in stem cell rejuvenation technology. “With this new partnership, we’re able to offer our clients cutting-edge solutions for their wellness goals. We look forward to seeing the amazing results that can be achieved,” she says.

According to Drew, the newest Lifewave X39 patches are designed to support healthy stem cell activity, promoting healing, restoration and rejuvenation in a non-invasive, affordable way. “These patented patches work by naturally elevating a copper peptide produced by the body, which in turn boosts vitality. They are safe and easy to use,” she affirms.

Cleansing Concepts is an oasis of holistic wellness treatments designed to transform and revitalize the body from the inside out. “Cleansing Concepts supports you on your wellness journey. Our mission is to create balance, harmony and a healthier you,” asserts Drew. “We’re pioneers in the industry, helping clients reach their wellness goals for more than 18 years.”

Cleansing Concepts has several state-of-the-art facilities that offer quality services at affordable pricing. Visit their website for location information.

To learn more about Cleansing Concepts Lifewave X39 offerings, email info@cleansingconceptsworld.com and put X39 in the subject line or visit CleansingConceptsWorld.com.

Vanessa Drew

Announcing Quarterly Yoga and Wellness Section

The team at Natural Awakenings New York City and Long Island editions is pleased to announce the launch of our quarterly Yoga and Wellness Section. This special feature will highlight the area’s best yoga, wellness and health studios, along with information on local teachers and yoga styles to help practitioners make the most informed decisions on their yoga journey. “We’ll also keep you in the loop on the latest trends, yoga fashion and events happening in our local yoga community,” assures Natural Awakenings Co-publisher, Michael Lehrman. “We’ll even find out which yoga studios have the most delicious food and beverage offerings.”

This informative and engaging section will be headed by Natural Awakenings Wellness Director, Dana Costantino. “For thousands of years people have been enjoying the physical and mental benefits of yoga. No matter one’s age or fitness level, yoga can help calm the mind and strengthen the body,” she affirms. “This special section will help you make the most informed decisions in your yoga journey. No matter how you choose to move forward in practice, yoga is something that benefits all. It truly is something for everybody.”

“We look forward to bringing you this inspired section on a quarterly basis and welcome your feedback and submissions,” adds Costantino.

For more information on how you can participate, email dana@naturalawakeningsny. com or visit NaturalAwakeningsNY.com.

Natural Awakenings Free Virtual Group Meditation

Thismonth’s Natural Awakenings NYC and Long Island virtual community meditation group takes place from 6 to 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, July 12, via Google Meets.

Mind-Body-Breath, the first collaborative local Natural Awakenings wellness initiative, began in November of 2022 and has been gaining traction ever since. This free reader’s group begins with an open forum for attendees to briefly share thoughts on mindfulness and stress reduction, followed by 20 minutes of meditation facilitated by Natural Awakenings NYC-Long Island Co-Publisher Michael Lehrman.

“I’m grateful to have this opportunity to spend quality time with Natural Awakenings readers in such a peaceful setting,” affirms Lehrman. “With all the exciting opportunities for play during the summer months, it’s nice to balance it out with a regular meditation practice. Whether you’re a seasoned meditator, or just stopping by to see what it’s all about, we invite you to join us as we take some time to pause and refresh together.”

Prior experience is unnecessary; participants can choose on or offcamera, and the sessions are not recorded.

Cost: Free. Location: Google Meets. For more information and to register, call 212-726-1420 or email Publisher@NaturalAwakeningsNY.com. See calendar listing, page 45.

Hope, Healing & Wellness

5 Reasons to Have a Garden

by Dr. Jillian Finker

Summer is in full swing and nothing says summer like planting a garden. Not only is a garden aesthetically pleasing to your landscape, studies show that gardening boosts self-esteem, reduces stress, and is nourishing for the flora and fauna in the environment. While there are countless reasons to have a garden, here are five excellent reasons to get started on planting one today.

1. PHYSICAL EXERCISE: Digging, planting, weeding and even harvesting vegetables involves movement. These activities help you stretch, burn calories, and improve your overall fitness.

2. RELAXATION: Studies show that breathing in dirt literally decreases anxiety. Also, being outdoors and moving around helps put our bodies in a calm state. Make sure to use good-quality organic soil.

3. NUTRIENT-DENSE FOODS: Picking vegetables and fruits that have been in the sun have higher levels of vitamin D and other nutrients than the aging produce we get in the store. The flavor of fresh vegetables and fruits far surpasses anything we get from the supermarket. This causes us to use less dressing or salt which also benefits our health.

4. SOCIAL INTERACTION: Gardening can bring communities together. Neighbors get a chance to become closer when sharing their extra produce with one other. Also, gardening can bring families together as working on a plot as a team effort strengthens family bonds.

5. BRAIN HEALTH: Creating a garden involves planning, researching and creative activities. It promotes constant learning and helps stimulate our cognitive abilities, thus helping to keep our brains young.

Even with all the nutrient-dense vitamins we get from fresh produce, the soils are still depleted in micronutrients, so we always need to supplement with nutraceuticals. Always test your levels and work with a provider who understands nutrition to determine what your specific needs are.

Dr. Jillian Finker, ND, CNS and author of It's About Wellness, Naturally, is the founder of Finker Wellness, located at 2308 Bellmore Ave. in Bellmore, NY. For more information, call 516-765-3272 or visit DrFinker.com.

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Preparing for Pregnancy

by Dr. David Pollack

Over the years, my team and I have had the great honor of helping many couples overcome fertility issues. Generally, they seek our help after trying for a year or more. They often have tried fertility treatments, including multiple rounds of IUI and IVF. They’re so emotionally down from the experience that the-mom-to-be is often on the edge of giving up. I understand why couples could feel so disheartened. However, there is still hope for a successful pregnancy. The first step is getting the parents’ bodies in the best shape possible. It’s from there that the magic usually happens.

First, we start with the basics: digestion, hormone balance, and inflammation control. We also check for, and remedy, certain chronic infections such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) or Lyme disease. I also make sure to recommend the Fallopian tubes have been checked for obstructions. Unfortunately, all too often it seems like fertility clinics wait a round or two of expensive fertility treatments before doing this important, simple test.

One thing I have recommended in general to my patients is to optimize thyroid function. Most believe that amongst many tests the TSH level should be between 1 and 2. I’ve been making that recommendation for the past 15 years of practicing functional medicine techniques. Within the past year, I’ve been hearing through my fertility patients that their conventional fertility clinic is recommending the same things. Perhaps the thought is that optimum hormone balance is paramount in fertility. Maybe it is in regular life too, just saying. A proactive way of optimizing fertility and increasing our chances of pregnancy would be to get the body in ideal health. What does that mean? From the thousands of consultations I’ve participated in, so many people minimize, and even forget about, some of their major health issues. It’s the chronic ones that are most ignored. The ones that have been there ‘forever.’ Digestive problems are at the top of the list. To me, that’s the point. Having a problem forever will degrade the overall function and health of the body. It’s probably the most important problem.

Additionally, having a well-balanced menstrual cycle is more compatible with a successful pregnancy. When I ask, many women will share that their cycle is normal. Then upon pressing the issue, I discover it is anything but normal—it’s either too long, too short, or too heavy. A menses should be four to five days long and 28 days per cycle. The bleeding should be present, not heavy or light. And there should be no clots, dark or rusty-colored blood. Cramps should be minimal to absent. And I cannot emphasize this enough—there should be minimal effects on mood. Anything else is suggestive of a hormone imbalance. Think of it this way—your body is the temple for this future child, so make it so.

On that note, it is my opinion that all CBD and true cannabinoid products should not be used. As a result of the legal status changes, many women mistakenly believe it’s okay to use these plant medicines. However, they affect our neurotransmitters and neuro-function and are therefore not safe for a developing fetus. Not only that, but they also alter testosterone to estrogen balance in adults and likely in the child. I’d highly recommend waiting a few months after stopping use before trying to get pregnant.

While it may be less complicated for men, boosting overall health is of the utmost importance as it affects sperm quality and count. Problems as simple as chronic GERD/reflux can even affect it. This couple’s story illustrates this perfectly. One patient came to my clinic for unrelated issues. She and her husband had tried for 12 years to get pregnant. They both thought it wasn’t possible. After we helped her achieve great health outcomes, I suggested we run some tests on her husband, who had very few health complaints besides general fatigue. However, through his bloodwork we found he had “off-the-charts” antibodies against EBV. We started a natural anti-viral protocol, and a month later they were pregnant. After 12 years it was possible and done the old-fashioned, natural way. Perhaps this is possible for you, too.

Dr. David L. Pollack is the founder of Pollack Wellness Institute, located at 66 Commack Rd., #204, Commack, NY. For appointments or information, call 631-462-0801, email info@pollackwellness.com or visit PollackWellness.com.

Close Relationships May Influence Physical Well-Being

A new study published in Social Psychological and Personality Science has found that a person’s close relationships may either benefit or undermine physical health. The three-week study involving 4,005 participants looked at how both positive and negative relationship experiences affect the body, and how daily fluctuations in those interactions may influence changes in well-being, as reflected in self-reported stress levels and coping abilities, as well as blood pressure and heart rate reactivity biomarkers.

The researchers observed that people with more positive experiences and fewer negative ones reported lower stress, improved coping skills and better physical functioning. They also noted that ups and downs in negative relationships were especially predictive of outcomes like stress, coping and overall systolic blood pressure.

Seniors Want Fewer Prescriptions

Effects of Cannabis Use Before and After Surgery

In January 2023, the American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine published guidelines recommending that all patients undergoing anesthesia be screened and questioned about cannabis use, including how much and how often they use, how they take it and when they last used it.

One of the largest studies on the effects of cannabis use on sedation, published in the Journal of Osteopathic Medicine, looked at 250 patients undergoing an endoscopy while under anesthesia. Those that reported regular cannabis use required significantly higher doses of anesthesia than nonusers. Another study, published in the journal PLOS ONE, found that daily cannabis users required a higher dose of sedatives prior to an endoscopy than weekly or monthly users. On a related note, a 2018 study published in the journal Patient Safety in Surgery reported that marijuana use may interfere with painkillers after surgery. The study looked at 261 trauma center patients and concluded that marijuana use, especially chronic use, may affect the pain response to injury and require higher doses of opioids for pain management.

In a new National Poll on Healthy Aging by the University of Michigan involving adults aged 50 to 80, the vast majority of respondents expressed an interest in cutting back on prescription medications. Eighty percent would be

willing to stop taking one or more drugs if their healthcare provider said it was possible, and 26 percent had already stopped taking at least one drug they had been taking for more than a year. When asked which meds they would be most interested in stopping, 43 percent named their heart disease pills for high blood pressure or high cholesterol, 13 percent mentioned diabetes medicines and 10 percent included pain management prescriptions. These results reflect a growing trend dubbed “deprescribing”. According to Deprescribing.org, a researcher-led online resource, it is the planned process of reducing or stopping medications that may no longer be of benefit or could be causing harm. The goal is to reduce medication burden or harm while improving quality of life. Seniors interested in cutting down on the drugs they are taking should consult their healthcare provider to ensure it is safe and helpful to do so.

Photo by 13MoonsPublishingServices.com

Yes! There is a Cure for Herpes

From the desk of Dr. Howard Robins at The Healing Center in New York City…

Imagine… You’ve got that first date with a special someone. You’ve got that interview for the new job you need so very much. You’re getting married today. You’re meeting that new client, the CEO of the biggest account you’ve ever had. You wake up in the morning with a huge, red, ugly blister on your lip. It’s a herpes outbreak! It couldn’t have picked a worse time to appear. There is no way to cover it up. You can’t be more embarrassed. Do you cancel? What do you do? The problem: It’s not complicated. You caught a virus—the herpes virus—which comes in two varieties: Herpes Type I and Herpes Type II. The CDC says over 50 million Americans have it out of 350 million. It appears that the numbers are really reversed. In truth, maybe 50 million don’t, as most people are not blood tested for it. Any kind of stress may bring on an outbreak as your immune system weakens for the moment. While there are many types of herpes viruses, these are the most severe psycho-socially embarrassing ones. They’re ugly, painful and, at times, dangerous. Years ago, the “canker sore” was mostly ignored. That’s not the case today. Relationships have ended—or never even started—when it’s revealed that one you has herpes. While Type I is generally considered oral and Type II is genital, it has been proven by testing that you can have either in both locations!

The Truth about how you got it? Would you believe that grandma might have given it you? How about your best friend? How is that possible? While herpes is often sexually transmitted, it can also be passed on by contact with silverware while dining or even sharing a water bottle at the gym. Unfortunately, it’s simply that easy. Grandma may have had a little brown or pink “dot” on her tongue one morning when she fed you your oatmeal—not the full-blown blister that is obviously an outbreak. Tasting it, she found it too hot, so she blew on it and tested it again. When she decided it was just the right temperature, she fed it to you. Unfortunately, she transferred the virus onto the spoon and gave it to you. Have you ever shared food in a restaurant with a friend, a family member, or on a date? The same

thing that could have happened with grandma could have happened then. Ever shared a soft drink with a friend or allowed your date to taste your cocktail? Most will blame the last person they were intimate with, but unless you had a blood test before being with them proving you were clean, you may have already been infected.

How can it be dangerous? As scary as it sounds, an outbreak on your lips or inside your nose can travel up your face to your eyes and literally blind you. Besides being painful as it attacks the sensory nerves and putting aside the small scar it may leave, if a woman has it internally it may breakout during birth causing the baby to be born blind.

What can you do to get rid of it permanently? Please don’t believe the drug commercials on television that say it can only be suppressed. Their sole interest is to keep you on expensive medication. They either don’t know about the treatment below, or they choose to ignore and suppress its existence.

Intravenous Ozone Therapy uses ozone gas as a medicine effectively destroying, getting rid of these dreaded viruses completely. Over 45,000 physicians have used it safely in over 50 countries for over 70 years, while being suppressed in this country—obviously for the financial gain of Big Pharma.

In truth, herpes is a hard virus to kill. The good news is that Ozone used as a medicine intravenously will penetrate its defenses and destroy it—without the possibility of developing a mutated or resistant strain. It does this safely with virtually NO adverse reactions! It’s possible to rid your body of it so completely with Ozone therapy that you will stop manufacturing antibodies for it, so that you will test negative for it, as if you never had it! Cured!

More information about this amazing, safe and effective treatment is available at OzoneWithoutBorders.ngo and OzoneDoctor.net, in addition to Dr. Robins’ live and archived radio show featured on the VoiceAmerica.com, Health and Wellness Channel, titled Functional Medicine with Dr. Robins. For more details, call his office at 212-581-0101. See ad, page 3.

Copyright 2023. All rights reserved.

Dr. Howard Robins

Blueberries Join the Fight Against Free Radicals

by Franklin St. John, Doctor of Chinese Medicine

But why are anthocyanins so effective in fighting free radical damage? Their chemical makeup is part of the answer. It just so happens that the electrons in the outer shell of free radicals—namely hydrogen, oxygen and carbon— are shared by the individual atoms that make up the anthocyanins. Because the electrons are shared, it is easy for the free radicals to latch on to them. But, unbeknownst to the evil free radicals, when they latch onto anthocyanins, they become neutralized before they can cause damage to your organs and DNA. Instead, they simply become debris, which travels through the liver and finally out of the body as waste. Neat!

Obviously you should have an abundance of free radical fighters in your system at all times—and one of the best ways to accomplish this would be to eat blueberries on a regular basis. But there’s one problem: you would have to eat a lot of blueberries in order to get maximum benefits.

I know that when you eat too much of one food, you can get sick of it. (Personally, I love blueberries, and would find it hard to get tired of them.) But even if you eat them regularly, you cannot maximize your intake of the anthocyanin. That’s why my company developed a liquid concentrate incorporating extracts of blueberry and bilberry, along with various other extracts, that is both effective and easy to take.

You’veprobably heard of the dangers of free radicals, and how important it is to combat them using antioxidants. You might also know that free radicals form as a result of your normal bodily functions, as well as from environmental considerations such as the air we breathe and even the water we drink. But you still might not know exactly what free radicals are.

Free radicals are atoms or ions that are missing at least one electron from their outer shell. When they enter your body, they steal electrons from your healthy cells and turn them into free radicals too. That process continues until the damage is so severe that health issues occur.

With this in mind, I’d like to discuss anthocyanins, a group of antioxidants that is particularly effective in fighting free radicals. Anthocyanins are what make blueberries so beneficial to your health (and, incidentally, what give them their blue color). The level of anthocyanin in blueberries is very high, and scientific literature has confirmed their effectiveness in fighting free radicals.

There are two other factors that I found to be important in developing this concentrate. The first is taste. If a liquid concentrate doesn’t taste good, it’ll be more like medicine than a pleasant drink.

The second is calories. I believe you should not have to think about your waistline every time you drink something. There are two herbal extracts that are very sweet and have no calories: Lo han fruit extract and an extract of stevia. By properly combining the two, we got a wonderful taste in our blueberry concentrate.

By the way, I use blueberry concentrate on cereal, in milk and even in water. By taking it three times a day, I feel that I am doing my best to fight those dangerous free radicals.

Dr. Franklin St. John, founder of HerbaSway Laboratories, was taught traditional Chinese herbal medicine and qigong by a Taoist master from the mountains of China. For more information, visit HerbaSway.com or call 800-672-7322.

Saving the Fading Night Sky

Solar Community Hubs

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History "Lights Out" exhibit, in Washington, D.C., is helping people understand that light pollution is a global problem with broad impact. The effects of light pollution go beyond our diminishing view of the stars; it also impacts ecosystems and cultures on Earth.

The exhibit features more than 100 photographs, nearly 250 objects, a history of human-made light, interactive experiences, tactile models and a theater program to discover why dark nights matter, rekindle a connection with the night sky and consider how much light at night is enough.

Astronomers rely on light, both visible and invisible, to understand celestial bodies, and their view of the universe has become increasingly obstructed by artificial light. Biologists have observed light pollution’s toll on plants and animals—from harming coral reefs’ moonlight-triggered reproduction to bats’ ability to pollinate flowers and the grim consequences of disoriented migrating birds. Another area of the exhibition presents people’s ancient and modern-day connections to the night sky through photographs, stories and cultural items.

Visitors also learn about simple but meaningful actions they can take to reduce light pollution, such as aiming outdoor lights downward and using the dimmest settings.

Nearly half of the world’s population has no access to the internet. Dell Technologies, in partnership with Computer Aid International, is addressing the gap for people that might benefit the most. They convert old shipping containers into customizable, solar-powered internet centers, called “solar community hubs”, that connect community members to the digital world. The hubs are well-lit, well-ventilated classrooms that use energy-efficient Dell technology and air-cooled servers. Each hub supports up to 40 people at a time and offers up to 20 users a wireless connection to learning materials.

The hubs provide digital skills to further education and open economic opportunities for the local community; allow micro and small enterprises to create jobs; and enable financial sustainability by offering services and products that go beyond education, such as telemedicine.

The first hub was placed in the Brazilian Amazon town of Boa Esperança in March 2022. Dell and the Foundation for Amazon Sustainability also installed equipment, including drones and environmental monitors, to track deforestation in the area. During the first week of March 2023, more than 200 alerts about tree loss were posted from Boa Esperança. Three hubs currently exist in Brazil and South Africa, and Dell will soon add two hubs in Egypt that are focused on career and life skills, as well as another in Australia, centered on preserving and protecting Aboriginal art and culture.

sripfoto/ShutterStock.com

That which you give to another will become your own sustenance; if you light a lamp for another, your own way will be lit.

~Nichiren

Repairing the Planet’s Lungs

The oceans, sometimes called the lungs of the Earth, have absorbed 30 percent of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions since the Industrial Revolution and captured 90 percent of the related excess heat. Seawater stores about 150 times more CO2 than air. Unfortunately, absorbing all that greenhouse gas has damaged sea life.

Engineers from the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) have developed a process to cleanse the seawater of CO2 so it can store greater amounts of greenhouse gases. The process sends an electric charge into seawater flowing through tanks on a barge. The charge sets off chemical reactions to trap the greenhouse gas into a solid mineral, which is then deposited on the ocean floor, completing the cleansing process.

The engineers expect to design larger facilities based on the data obtained from their test sites in Los Angeles and Singapore and have commercial sites removing millions of tons of CO2 per year by 2025. The UCLA scientists estimate that 1,800 facilities would be needed to capture 10 billion tons of atmospheric CO2 annually beginning in 2050, thereby limiting the global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Colombia Protects Its Birds

Colombia has the most bird species in the world—1,966 registered species, or 20 percent of all birds worldwide— and has updated its strategy for protecting this rich avian life, affecting all birds that inhabit the country at some point in their annual life cycle. The goal is to conserve and sustainably manage bird diversity, habitats and ecosystems by the generation of knowledge, scientific research and its application, the active participation of different sectors, policy and planning. The strategy focuses on 11 different Colombian ecosystems from the high Andean forests to savannas, grasslands and coastal areas.

This exhaustive process in the renewal of Colombia’s avian protection strategy involved more than 30 workshops and 2,000 people from every region of the country. Input from indigenous peoples and others generated practical conservation actions in their territories, as well as ancestral knowledge and an appreciation for the special connections these communities have with birds in their daily lives, resulting in a strategy that prioritizes the relationships between people and birds.

Artem Pachkovskyi/ShutterStock.com

JAndresCastillo/ShutterStock.com

Natural Ant Control for the Home

The warmer weather can bring unwanted pests, including ants, into homes and apartments. Conventional pesticides and ant traps can be toxic to humans, pets and the environment. This season, consider using one of these safer ant-control alternatives.

KEEP COUNTERS CLEAN

First and foremost, maintain kitchen counters and floors free of food particles. Tightly seal food containers, wipe countertops with soapy water, sweep the floors and avoid leaving standing water overnight. If there are no food sources around, the ants will lose interest.

STOP ENTRY INTO THE HOME

After cleaning, the next line of defense is to keep ants from entering the home in the first place. One of the most effective, toxin-free methods is to spray cedar oil outside, around the perimeter of the house. Mix one ounce of cedar oil in one quart of water (or four ounces per gallon) and

spray the solution three feet up the outside walls and on the ground, six feet out from the edges of the house.

USE NATURAL REPELLENTS

Numerous natural repellents work well inside the home. Place one or more of these in the kitchen or wherever the ants are entering: cucumber peels or slices; tea bags of mint tea or dry, crushed mint leaves; cloves; cayenne pepper; citrus oil soaked into a piece of string; lemon juice; cinnamon; or coffee grounds.

CONFUSE ANTS TRAVELING BACK TO THE NEST

As worker ants travel from their nest to forage for food, they leave a sex hormone (pheromone) scent in order to find their way back to the nest. These invisible trails can be washed away with a mixture of one-quarter cup of white vinegar, two cups of water, and 10 to 15 drops of peppermint, clove, eucalyptus or tea tree essential oil.

USE NATURAL ANT KILLERS AS LAST RESORT

A serious ant problem might require more drastic measures that kill the invading ants. These two options employ non-toxic ingredients.

n Diatomaceous earth is a non-toxic, talc-like powder made from the fossilized remains of marine phytoplankton. When sprinkled on ants, the powder causes them to dehydrate.

n Cornmeal left out in small piles where ants are visible is another option that poses no threat to pets or little kids. The ants will eat the cornmeal, but because they can’t digest it, they will perish.

Oh, My Aching Back!

by Jean McClelland

Back pain is a worldwide affliction and a leading cause of disability. More work hours are lost due to back pain, and sufferers spend excessive amounts of money trying remedies to alleviate their discomfort. Back pain has many causes, and it is crucially important to seek out the root cause through appropriate medical and diagnostic tools. It can occur from simple muscle strain from overuse to much more serious spinal and neurological issues. Back pain can also occur from using our bodies in a way for which they were not designed.

In 2008, a peer-reviewed research paper was published in the British Medical Journal documenting a randomized trial comparing the efficacy of the Alexander Technique, massage and physiotherapeutic exercise for chronic and recurrent back pain. The study used 579 patients with chronic or recurrent low back pain; 144 were randomized to normal care, 147 to massage, 144 to six Alexander technique lessons, and 144 to 24 Alexander technique lessons. In addition, half of each of these groups were randomized to exercise and behavioral counseling. It was found that private lessons in the Alexander Technique from certified teachers had long-term benefits for patients with chronic back pain. Six lessons followed by an exercise prescription were nearly as effective as 24 lessons. The conclusion of this study was not surprising to those of us who practice Alexander Technique.

Alexander Technique teachers have trained their eyes and hands to observe how someone is using their body. We notice immediately if a student’s body is compressed and holding excess tension. We also notice how this affects breathing and the mobility of the ribcage. Ribs are meant to be moveable, and a fixed ribcage can inhibit breathing. This also affects our pain level because shallow breathing can’t rid the lungs of carbon dioxide, and a buildup of CO2 tenses nerves and muscles.

It is imperative for all of us to become accustomed to sitting “comfortably erect.” This is important because it begins to make us aware of the anatomy of our torso, the main part of our body that contains the chest, abdomen, pelvis and back. Many people have no

idea that their pelvis is attached to their spine and that it is part of the torso. When we sit comfortably erect, we are balancing on the bottom bones of the pelvis, commonly called, “sitz bones.”

The photo in this article demonstrates how the chair rises up underneath to uphold us rather than collapsing down into the chair. Notice how sitting comfortably erect opens the whole torso. Back pain is often the result of thinking our waist is the bottom of the torso, but it is not. The pelvis is the bottom of the torso and learning how to sit comfortably erect on our sitz bones will help us appreciate our torso and can go a long way in relieving back pain.

Jean McClelland is on the faculty of the Graduate Program in Acting at Columbia University and a guest lecturer in the music department at William Paterson University. She is an AmSAT certified senior teacher of the Alexander Technique and studied with Carl Stough at his Institute for Breathing Coordination. She is one of fewer than a dozen people worldwide personally selected by Stough to teach his work. In addition, she has performed extensively in musical theater and is a member of Actors’ Equity Association. She teaches in-person and virtual private lessons and group classes. For more information, visit JeanMcClellandVoice.com.

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Photo: Jean McClelland

Akaija Healing Energy Pendants

cause a false sense of security, and then cause more harm,” she explains. “This was before I was given an Akaija.”

According to Persampire, the Akaija is an energy pendant that has been around for two decades. “It is a healing tool, a harmonizer of energy fields. There are tens of thousands of these pendants in many European countries. However, here in the United States it is only just beginning to be discovered,” she says.

Debbie Persampire, teacher, activist and holistic mom, is passionate about educating others on the potential health and environmental pitfalls of wireless radiation. As the founder of Citizen’s for 5G Awareness, she would often advise others against using any type of jewelry purported to help protect against wireless radiation. “My thought was that these products might

Persampire shares that due to her role as the founder of Citizen’s for 5G Awareness, a few years ago, the creator of the Akaija energy pendants, Netherlandsbased goldsmith, author and artist Wim Roskam, reached out to her. “At first, I said no, I didn’t believe in those kinds of products,” she recalls. However, eventually Persampire decided to give it a try. “It wasn’t long before I felt different, better. At first, I thought it was the placebo effect. By the end of a two week period, I knew deeply that something incredible was happening to me. I wasn’t able to stop smiling.”

Persampire says she became optimistic and felt more alive than she had in years.

“My energy was boundless at times. My chronic negative thoughts were replaced with clarity and peace,” she affirms. “The Akaija connected me to what feels like a vast ocean of pure joy. Before that, I was separate, stagnant and full of worry. Today, I am full of gratitude for this incredible miracle,” says this enthusiastic Akaija advocate, who now spends her time helping others discover this energyhealing jewel.

To connect, email Deb@AkaijaUSA.com. For more information on Akaija visit AkaijaUSA.com or AkaijaUSA on Facebook.

Marconics A MULTI-DIMENSIONAL ENERGY

by Alison David Bird

Marconics is multi-dimensional, not fifth dimensional. Marconics is full-spectrum multi-dimensional energy for the 5th dimensional body hologram and light body template.

If you are seeking assistance with shedding density, lifting in vibration, establishing clear connection with your Higher Self, stepping outside of 3D density and consciousness, then Marconics is for you. Marconic Energy creates an opportunity for you to merge with higher aspects of Self—essential for the Ascension as we evolve within and beyond the vibration of the 5th dimension.

Your vibrational frequency is raised so high in the moment as Marconic Energy—encoded with Light Information—is run through selected points on the body’s own Axiatonal system. Profound spontaneous healing on all levels of the multi-dimen sional body may occur.

Marconics is an energy modality which anchors the highest of frequencies from the cosmos and raises the vibrational frequen cy of both the client and practitioner. Marconics accelerates the release of karmic imprints and helps to activate dormant DNA.

Alison David Bird, C.Ht. is the Originator of Marconics.

For more information about Marconics, including practitioner certification courses, spiritual alchemy, and personal transformation workshops, visit Marconics.com.

LEVELS I - III Marconics Practitioner Certification

July 13-17

August 5-9

• Universal Healing Arts Center, Cortlandt Manor, NY

• Chester/ Sugarloaf, NY

For more upcoming workshops, see calendar listing, page 45.

Essential Oils and Yoga

by Dana Costantino

Our entire body continually vibrates at a subtle level, moving energy and information through our connective tissues.

The L.I.F. e . Sy ST em scans nearly 7,000 energy patterns. By identifying which energy vibrations are out of balance, the system can put them back into harmonic balance, allowing your body to return to a state of rest and healing.

Frankincense is known as the “oil of truth.” The scent of this ancient essential oil aids in reducing stress levels and bringing your personal energy level to a deeper state of meditation. This is why many yoga practitioners turn to frankincense when they begin a practice of restorative yoga or meditation.

If your practice is taking a more active approach, as in a power yoga class or an intense ashtanga class, lemon oil would be a beneficial ally, due to its lively appeal. Lemon essential oil creates a sense of joy and uplifts the spirit as it elevates mood levels. This oil often elicits positive memories which inspires movement.

There are many ways to incorporate essential oils into your yoga or meditation practice. Below are several suggestions to take your next session to the next level with essential oils:

n Sprinkle a few drops on your mat before beginning your practice.

n Open the essential oil bottle, place it under your nose, and take a deep inhale.

n Put several drops of oil into a diffuser and keep it nearby.

n Place a few drops of oil into a lit candle.

n Buy incense with the scent of lemon or frankincense.

n Place one or two drops of oil onto your wrists, rub them together, and take a deep inhale.

n If you have food grade essential oils, you can also sprinkle a few drops into water or tea and drink prior to and during practice.

Centering yourself and getting to a state of true calm and self-reflection sometimes needs a helping hand. Essential oils can be a wonderful solution.

Dana Costantino is wellness director for Natural Awakenings New York and certified to teach yoga, meditation and aromatherapy. Reach her at Dana@NaturalAwakeningsNY.com.

Music as a Powerful Portal for Awakening and Healing REFLECTIONS

FROM CONSCIOUS MUSICIAN KRISTIN HOFFMANN

Kristin Hoffmann, Juilliard trained singer, conscious musician and producer, is on a personal mission to amplify awareness and healing through the vehicles of song, sound, powerful storytelling, and wellness. A strong advocate for peace and earth/ocean conservation, Hoffmann opens sonic-emotional heart spaces in which powerful new awareness, connection and healing can flourish. For the last 10 years, she has been the vocalist for the internationally acclaimed show, BELLA GAIA, a multi-media theater experience created in conjunction with NASA. She works regularly with other thought leaders and change-makers to amplify important wisdom for our times through the powerful vehicle of music.

What kind of impact does conscious music and the arts have on people?

Music and the arts have the unique ability to catalyze heart-rooted change and a sense of inner-connectedness to all things. Through portals of heightened creativity, love and light we are re-sparked into states of flow, where our inner vision can naturally guide our way and new possibilities begin to open before us.

As a conscious musician, it has been an honor to write songs about topics close to my heart. I have witnessed again and again how quickly music can lead to real impact. When we experience a deep sense of emotion around a particular subject, even for just a few minutes, we begin to nurture a foundation of genuine care about that issue. From this resonant place, we are much more likely to seek out further information and engage in growthoriented activities that support positive change and healing, on personal, local and worldly levels.

How can conscious music facilitate a deeper level of presence?

For those seekers amidst a spiritual evolution, or wanting to deepen a meditative practice, music can serve as an intimate companion on your journey towards inner peace and illumination. Through my years as a sound healer, I have realized that how we set the space and prepare for sound and melody to enter is almost as important as the music that is played. Taking thoughtful

time to create a quiet comfortable place to relax, while centering into the present moment with a few deep breaths, is the perfect pre-cursor to receptive listening. The more we allow ourselves to expand into a conscious relationship with sound, and understand the transformational potential of music in our lives, the more we can embody our true nature as Beings of Frequency.

Can you share more about your latest vibrationally encoded music project?

Over the last seven years, I have lovingly developed a brand-new album, RainShine, to specifically serve as a musical portal-opener. Sub-titled SonicAlchemy for Soul Awakening, my intention is for this to be a soundtrack for the human spirit, activating highest emotional channels that will then assimilate into the 3D human experience. My hope is that in this vibrationally encoded space, new understanding and vision will be received, reminding listeners of their own unique gifts, creative dharma, and valuable contributions to this world.

Kristin Hoffmann’s music has been heard on major record labels, in films and on television. She has performed throughout the world, collaborating with musical luminaries on projects ranging from individual albums to grand symphonic productions. For more information, visit KristinHoffmann.com.

THE MICROBIOME CONNECTION

HOW SOIL AND HUMAN HEALTH ARE RELATED

by Kelcie Ottoes

The human gut microbiome, which is critical to fighting off disease, and soil microbiome, which enables plant growth, are vitally important to maintaining all life on our planet. These two communities of microorganisms are indirectly connected in important ways, and researchers are trying to find out more about their interplay.

Human Microbiome

The human gut microbiome consists of trillions of microorganisms of different species. These microbes help to digest food, synthesize vitamins and other important compounds, regulate our immune system and even influence behavior and mood.

The gut microbiome includes both helpful and potentially

harmful microbiota that coexist peacefully in a healthy person. But certain diets, or the use of antibiotics or other bacteriadestroying medications, can upset the balance, a state known as dysbiosis, which can impair the microbiome’s functions, leaving the body susceptible to disease.

Soil Microbiome

The soil microbiome has many parallels to the human gut scenario. It consists of bacteria, fungi, archaea and viruses—microorganisms that play an important role in maintaining the health of the soil. They do this by breaking down organic matter, cycling nutrients and protecting crops against harmful pathogens.

Regenerative organic farming practices that promote biodiver-

Photo by Rodale Institute

sity and disdain the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers develop robust soil that is rich in nutrients and beneficial microbes. In such settings, farmers don’t need to use chemicals, because the microbiome creates disease-resistant soil to fight off threats.

The Nutrition Link

While a direct link between the soil microbiome and the gut microbiome has yet to be proven, soil certainly impacts our health through our diet. A diverse and active soil microbiome is responsible for supporting plant growth. Plants then provide us with the nutrients that our gut microbiome needs to thrive, including calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, E, K and the B complex.

Dan Kittredge, founder of The Bionutrient Institute, explains, “The sophistication of the soil microbiome is connected to the nutritional value of the food that’s produced. The healthier the [soil] microbiome, the healthier the food.” The use of fertilizers and pesticides does not directly produce less nutritious food, but rather their impact on the health of the soil microbiome can impact the crops’ nutritional value.

There is a hypothesis that food has become less nutritious since the mid-1900s. In a 2004 study, University of Texas scientists examined the nutritional value of 43 garden crops from 1950 to 1999 and found that while all 43 foods showed a statistically reliable decline in nutrition, it was likely due to cultivating plants with desired traits, such as larger sizes, faster growing rates and increased pest resistance. It wasn’t the soil that was the problem, but that growers had not prioritized breeding crops for higher nutritional value.

According to Jack Gilbert, a pediatrics professor at the University of California San Diego and co-founder of the Earth Microbiome Project and the American Gut Project, “There is an indirect relationship between a healthy soil microbiome and healthy gut microbiome. While we need healthy soils to grow plants, a healthy soil microbiome does not equal a healthy gut microbiome.”

He explains, “The link is really about diet in the gut microbiome. Precision nutrition is the idea that how we all respond to food is unique, and that we can predict those responses if we understand what kinds of bacteria are in the gut. This is because the gut microbiome varies between people, and those same gut microbes can mediate how food influences our physiology. Eating a healthy diet can have a profound impact on reducing the risk of developing chronic diseases.”

The nutritional value of food is more complicated than the quality of the soil in which the crops grow. It is also impacted by the processing of the food. As Kittredge notes, when the bran in wheat is removed—a common process that turns flour white—wheat loses much of its nutritional value. Unprocessed foods allow us to access more of the nutrients within them.

Digging in the Soil

There is another way that soil microbes can benefit human health: spending time in nature. Exposure to the soil microbiome has been shown to stimulate the immune system. When outside, we are exposed to a diverse array of microorganisms that increase disease resistance and provide neurological benefits.

The Promise of Regenerative Organic Agriculture

Led by the Regenerative Organic Alliance, which includes organizations and brands like Rodale Institute, Dr. Bronner’ s and Patagonia, the Regenerative Organic Certified farms and products meet the highest standards in the world for soil health, animal welfare, and farmworker fairness. The idea is to create farm systems that work in harmony with nature to improve quality of life for every creature involved. The Regenerative Organic Certified framework is designed to go above and beyond the USDA Certified Organic seal. To date, 134 farms and more than 47,000 smallholder farmers totaling almost 880,000 acres are Regenerative Organic Certified. Nearly 100 brands offer Regenerative Organic Certified products on the market.

Under Regenerative Organic Certified standards, soil health is promoted by including a variety of rotating crops, cover crops, no tillage, no synthetic inputs, no genetically modified seeds and rotationally grazed animals. Farms that follow these protocols become biodiverse ecosystems with organically rich soil that absorbs water, does not erode over time and produces safe, nutritious food. Learn more at RegenOrganic.org.

Photo by Rodale Institute

Gilbert has largely built a career on the benefits of getting his hands dirty. He is currently conducting a study to find out how giving children two hours of outdoor learning a day can impact their metabolic health and help them avoid diseases. According to Kittredge, playing in the dirt isn’t just for kids. “It is beneficial to expose ourselves to soil microbes,” he says. “Everyone should nature bathe.”

“Exposure to soil microbes, like Mycobacterium vaccae, can positively impact our physical and mental health,” says Kathleen DiChiara, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition practitioner and digestive wellness educator. “We are losing diversity and not getting the exposure we used to.” She points out that the gut microbiomes of urban citizens in the U.S. have lower bacterial diversity than those in rural societies, including hunter-gatherers from Tanzania and the Amazon.

While diet, lifestyle and genetics play a role in the host-specific differences, the microbiome composition in adults is also based on exposure to microbes in the environment. According to DiChiara, there is no perfect profile for the gut microbiome, and our gut microbial communities ebb and flow. “If a specific strain of bacteria suddenly disappears, perhaps due to an illness, another species can take on its task,” she explains. “Like nature, it’s about working together on our behalf.”

Diversity, richness and symbiotic behavior of the gut microbes are central to our well-being. DiChiara notes that many variables can negatively impact the gut microbiome. Some result from the choices we make voluntarily, such as smoking, drinking too much alcohol, eating ultra-processed foods, being chronically stressed and leading a sedentary lifestyle. Other factors are beyond our control, such as neurological injuries, illnesses and hormonal shifts due to puberty or menopause.

Human Impact on Soil Health

The soil microbiome and the gut microbiome both need our support to maintain proper health. Although our gut microbiome may not be directly impacted by the health of soil microbes, it can be impacted by the pesticides, herbicides and fungicides in our food.

Degradation of the soil microbiome occurs in many ways. Tillage, bare soil, dry soil, fertilizer, chemical sprays and fungicides all harm the soil microbiome. These non-regenerative agricultural practices can have negative impacts on the health of individuals that eat the plants and on the health of the broader ecosystems. Chemicals like glyphosate can damage the gut microbiome by creating oxidative stress, which agitates the microbiome and impedes its ability to function properly. Pesticides can also have a detrimental impact on the gut microbiome. Each year the United States uses 1 billion pounds of pesticides that may be damaging our bodies when we eat our veggies. “What we are not doing is prioritizing protecting the microbiome—for us and the soil. It’s time we recognize the interconnections between climate, soil and the gut,” DiChiara says.

There are multiple ways we can cultivate a closer, healthier relationship between our soil and our gut, such as supporting sustainable agriculture, avoiding processed foods, frequenting farmers markets for organic produce or spending time in nature. Better yet, Kittredge suggests planting a pesticide-free garden at home and eating carrots straight from the soil.

Kelcie Ottoes is a copywriter and content creator specializing in sustainability and environmental topics.

Photo by Rodale Institute

Photo by Rodale Institute

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With Dr. Etess, barber shop dentistry isn’t even a consideration! He and his team set the highest standard of professional dental care for his patients by providing mainstream dental treatments along with state-of-the-art dental services, implementing leading-edge protocols that other dentists are unable to offer.

One such advanced protocol is Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF), a 100% biocompatible material derived from the patient’s own blood through a special blood centrifugation process to provide a natural source of stem cells, growth factors, and healing cytokines. Dr. Etess is a pioneer in PRF and one of the first surgical dentists in the metropolitan New York area to offer it.

One of the primary benefits of PRF is its role in promoting tissue regeneration and wound healing. When PRF is placed at the surgical site, it releases growth factors that stimulate cell proliferation, angiogenesis and collagen synthesis, accelerating the dental healing process. This is

particularly beneficial in procedures like dental implant placement and bone grafting where optimal tissue healing is crucial for successful outcomes.

Moreover, PRF has antibacterial properties that aid in reducing the risk of post-operative infections. The fibrin matrix of PRF acts as a barrier, preventing bacterial invasion and promoting a sterile environment for healing. Additionally, PRF can be combined with other biomaterials to enhance their efficacy, such as mixing PRF with bone graft materials for better integration and stability.

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Anne Biklé

ON THE ADVANTAGES OF REGENERATIVE FARMING

by Linda Sechrist

Anne Biklé and David R. Montgomery, a husband and wife team, collaborated to write What Your Food Ate: How to Heal Our Land and Reclaim Our Health. A biologist, environmental planner and gardener extraordinaire, Biklé earned degrees in biology and natural history from the University of California (UC) Santa Cruz and a master’s degree in landscape architecture from UC Berkeley. She uses her endless fascination with the natural world to explore the tangled relationships between people and their environments. She also helped Montgomery, a professor of Earth and space sciences at the University of Washington, research and write The Hidden Half of Nature: The Microbial Roots of Life and Health, as well as Growing a Revolution: Bringing Our Soil Back to Life. Explor-

ing the connection between soil health and human health, the duo shows us how the roots of our good health begin on farms. Why did you write this book?

It was a case of evolution, a progression of our research and thinking, as well as the culmination of a journey that we’ve been on, looking into how soils affect human societies. When you’re a writer and you’re constantly looking for connections and patterns, this is what can happen. When David was writing Dirt: The Erosion of Civilizations, he discovered that how we treated the land in the past shaped the way that the land was able to treat the descendants of people. In other words, if you don’t take care of your land, it doesn’t take care of you.

What effects do soil erosion and degradation have on our food supply?

In looking at the UN’s “Status of the World’s Soil Resources" from 2015, the study concludes that 33 percent of the Earth’s soils are already degraded, and we’re losing about 0.3 percent of our ability to feed ourselves—to grow food on this planet every year—due to soil erosion and soil degradation. That doesn’t sound like a big number in any one year, but adding it up over the rest of this century, it comes to 30 percent of our ability to feed ourselves. Adding to this is the serious degradation

of the world’s agricultural land from longterm farming practices, such as tilling or plowing, which is the villain in what is becoming a significant planetary problem that can be reversed with regenerative farming practices.

The plow is one of the more destructive implements that mankind has ever invented despite its ability to help feed us in the past. It contributes to soil degradation and erosion because it fundamentally alters the balance between how fast soils are being made and how fast they’re being lost.

What are the benefits of regenerative farming practices?

Regenerative agriculture uses less fertilizer, less pesticide and less fossil fuel. It also increases the carbon content in the soil. Carbon-rich soil retains more water and contains more life, such as whole new worlds of microbial metabolites [the energy and nutrients needed to live and reproduce] that come from soil microbes.

Do farming practices influence the health of crops and human health?

Conventional farming practices use synthetic nitrogen, which degrades organic soil matter and alters the communities of life in the soil. In studies of organic versus conventional, we’ve found that there’s almost always evidence that there are differences in micronutrients and phytochemicals, with organic crops having higher levels of both. Micronutrients are the vitamins and minerals that we need in trace amounts for our health— for example, selenium, boron, zinc and iron—which we need just a little bit of, but that little bit has an oversized effect on our health.

Conventional crops almost always have higher levels of pesticides and heavy metals. There’s a lot of controversy scientifically about how much is enough to affect human health. The companies that make pesticides assure us that the levels in food are perfectly safe. But there are now

scientists who are starting to investigate chronic exposure to even small amounts over a whole lifetime. How much does that influence our health? We think there are reasons to keep asking those questions.

It is highly suggestive that the idea of a connection between soil health, crop health and animal health translates into what’s in our food. If we’re getting more vitamins, phytochemicals and mineral micronutrients, which are shown to support health, you can make the argument that these regeneratively grown foods are probably healthier for us to eat.

What influence do farming practices have on livestock and human health?

The nature of what ruminants eat greatly influences the nature of the fats that are in meat and dairy. Livestock grazing on leafy green plants are getting an omega3-rich diet. Ruminants that eat predominantly seed- or seed oil-derived rations in a feed lot are getting a mainly omega6-derived diet. Omega-6 fats help trigger inflammation. We want our bodies to be able to trigger inflammation when we need it, but we also want it to turn off when it’s done. Inflammation is not a process that just stops, so we need omega-3 fats, which are central to the process of terminating or quelling inflammation.

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

Batool F. Rizvi, D.D.S., P.C. strives to keep her patients smiling from the inside out. She believes in a holistic approach to health care. Her gentle touch, excellent listening skills and thorough explanations keep her patients educated, happy and healthy.

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Hues of Health

BENEFITS OF A COLORFUL DIET

by Veronica Hinke

Eating plant-based foods from every hue in the rainbow provides an exceptional array of health benefits. Rich in essential vitamins, minerals and fiber, vibrantly colored fruits and vegetables also contain phytonutrients such as antioxidants, flavonoids, carotenoids and polyphenols that contribute to the color, flavor and aroma of such foods. There are thousands of phytonutrients and, according to a 2022 review of clinical studies published in Nutrients, these natural chemical compounds “play an important role in the prevention of serious chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity and hypertension, along with different types of cancer or degenerative diseases.”

From a culinary perspective, colorful, plant-based foods add pops of color and flavor to a dish, and simple techniques can transform uber-nutritious fruits and veggies into crave-worthy delights. From tasty spreads and luscious dressings to pungent pickling recipes and rich soups, eating the rainbow can be a scrumptious and sustainable everyday lifestyle.

Keeping a medley of wholesome choices in the house is a good tactic to help a family adopt a rainbow-based diet. According to Registered Dietitian Olga Kras, “Not any single fruit or vegetable provides all of the nutrients we need. Making a variety of colors of fruits and vegetables visible increases the likelihood that they will be part of a daily routine.”

When her children were younger, instead of giving them sugary treats, she would cut fruits and vegetables into shapes with cookie cutters. “They loved opening their lunch boxes to find the fun shapes,” she recalls, noting the allure of visually pleasing treats. As the first-century Roman Apicius said, “We eat first with our eyes.”

According to Sarah Stegner, co-owner and chef of Prairie Grass Cafe, in Northbrook, Illinois, “Food is medicine. It is what lifts us up. When we allow ourselves to get run-down or we are tired, that is when we are the most vulnerable, and we reach for that highly processed, packaged thing. That’s when we compromise, and compromise leads to long-term illness.”

Stegner compares food shopping to a trip to an art store for the artist that is about to paint a rainbow. “Center yourself,” she counsels. “Don’t put anything into the cart that shouldn’t be eaten. The key word is choice. If people don’t understand and realize what the choices they have are—for example, what herbs are and how to use them—then that is not a choice for them when they go home to cook a meal.”

“It’s just fun to have foods that are colorful,” says Erin Hoogendyk, a cooking instructor at Grebe’s Chef Center, in Wausau, Wisconsin, whose favorite flavor accents are onions, lemons and limes, as well as a panoply of herbs, including basil, rosemary, chives, parsley and mint. To add color and nutrition to everyday salads, she tosses in blueberries or dresses them with homemade vinaigrettes made with strawberries and balsamic.

Hoogendyk recommends farmers markets, individual farm stands and community-supported agriculture subscriptions to discover the freshest, in-season ingredients. When it comes to cooking and putting meals together, a sense of adventure and enjoyment is paramount, she says. Her coleslaw recipe includes red and green onions, radishes and red cabbage. “I don’t like coleslaw to be boring,” she quips, adding that her next project is to pickle an ingredient she has never pickled before: celery. “I can’t wait to see how it turns out.”

For those wanting to optimize their rainbow-based diets, “testing can help people understand how to best support their biology and determine what their bodies need,” says Dr. Véronique Desaulniers, a chiropractor and author of Heal Breast Cancer Naturally. She recommends the DNA test kit and whole-body health report from Nutrition Genome to pinpoint which foods to enjoy or avoid, depending on genetic weaknesses. Close monitoring of blood sugar levels is also important, she notes, as daily glucose and insulin spikes “can turn on cancer-causing genes and cancer-causing pathways.”

Veronica Hinke is a food historian and author of The Last Night on the Titanic: Unsinkable Drinking, Dining and Style. Learn more at FoodStringer.com.

Five Dietary Recommendations to Support the Fire Element of Summer

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the concept of the Five Elements is used to understand the interactions and relationships within the human body and the natural world. The Five Elements include wood, fire, earth, metal and water. Each element is associated with certain organs, emotions and physiological processes—as well as seasons—throughout the year.

The element of Fire in TCM is associated with summer, and the organs associated with the season are heart and small intestine, as well as emotions like joy and excitement. The Fire element governs the circulatory system, the complexion, and mental functions. To support the Fire element in TCM, the following five dietary recommendations can be considered:

1. Eat more bitter foods: Including more bitter foods in your diet can help clear heat and promote better digestion. Examples include bitter melon, dandelion greens, arugula and radicchio.

2. Consume cooling foods: Fire element imbalances can lead to excessive heat in the body. Consuming cooling foods can help balance this. Some cooling foods include cucumber, watermelon, spinach and mung bean sprouts.

3. Use spicy foods in moderation: While Fire element individuals may enjoy the warmth and stimulation of spicy foods, excessive consumption can exacerbate internal heat. Moderation is key, and it’s important to listen to your body’s response.

4. Add red foods to your diet: The Fire element is often associated with the color red. Including red foods like tomatoes, red peppers, strawberries and cherries can support the Fire element.

5. Practice mindful eating: In TCM, emotional wellbeing is closely connected to the Fire element. Practicing mindful eating, chewing food thoroughly, and enjoying meals in a relaxed and joyful manner can help support the Fire element.

Martina Stepankova and Eva Giannone represent Energy USA, a global company that offers all-natural herbal drops and creams, vitamins, minerals and other herbal supplements to help balance the body and mind. For more information on products and membership, call 917-4003194 or visit Product.Energy.

Green Exercise RECONNECTING WITH NATURE

by Cristina Parker

For some fitness buffs, it doesn’t feel like exercise unless they’re at the gym lifting weights, pedaling the stationary bike or hearing the grunts of others giving it their all. But there’s an emerging trend taking hold: green exercise. Prompted by a growing focus on reconnecting with nature, combined with the well-known benefits of physical exertion, outdoor workouts in natural settings and urban parks are all the rage. From daily walks around the neighborhood to calisthenics with the aid of a tree or yoga on the beach, the possibilities are delightfully endless for all ages and fitness levels. Medical pros are prescribing it for science-based reasons.

Green exercise is not exactly a new concept. In a 2013 review of studies published in Extreme Physiology & Medicine, researchers concluded that physical activity in a natural setting as opposed to an indoor gym is perceived as easier and more fun, thereby boosting motivation. They wrote, “The nature element may help achieve a greater intensity of exercise without perception of effort changing.” In other words, people walk faster outdoors yet paradoxically feel as though they’re kicking back.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture found a positive correlation between green space and health. People that spend time in nature often experience a reduction in stress, cortisol levels, muscle tension and heart rate—all of which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease. A 2021 study published in Frontiers in Psychology involving obese young people confirmed that exercising in nature led to improved stress recovery, enhanced attentional restoration and a reduction in negative emotions.

Exposure to sunlight is another benefit. According to Dr. Natty Bandasak, a physical therapist and founder of The Myokinetix Clinic, in New Jersey, “Getting vitamin D from the sun is much

more impactful than the vitamin D absorbed from ingestible supplements. Just 10 minutes spent outside first thing in the morning can really set the day in a good direction.”

To maximize the benefits of green exercise, Rajeshwari Reddy, a physical therapist in Maryland, suggests a few precautions. “If you have any kind of vision issues, you should exercise midday when there is enough light to keep yourself safe, and if you suffer from seasonal allergies, try to avoid areas with flowering plants or trees,” she explains. “Standard walking shoes are different from running shoes, and the body mechanics of different activities require different levels of shock absorption. These often-overlooked components of an outdoor exercise routine can go a long way to keep you safe, avoid unnecessary injuries and ensure you are having fun with your new program.”

After choosing a suitable time and location, the next step is deciding what exercises to do. Dr. Christine Masterson, a physical therapist at Orlin & Cohen Orthopedic Group, in New York, says, “For those who desire supervision, joining a local walking or running group is an excellent option. Alternatively, for those who prefer independence, a self-paced exercise routine is recommended.”

Both Masterson and Bandasak describe bodyweight-supported exercises as a perfect outdoor-friendly, equipment-free workout. Moving against gravity uses the person’s weight as a natural form of resistance. As a result, no dumbbells or resistance bands are required. Pick a nice spot in the grass, on the sand or under a shaded treat and do sit-ups, heel raises, push-ups and squats.

Masterson suggests pairing calisthenics with walking. A sample routine could include a brisk walk to the park, followed by squats sitting and standing from a bench, then another brisk walk to a wooded area, followed by heel raises holding onto a tree trunk for balance. “In a bodyweight program, you can focus more on your form and movement pattern, then you can progress these exercises by increasing repetitions, rather than adding weights,” she notes.

Bandasak asserts that aerobic exercises like walking, jogging or hiking can be optimized by adding a grip challenge. “One factor strongly correlated with increased longevity is grip strength,” he explains. “Grip can be strengthened through your ability to hold onto objects like a pull-up bar at a playground or stable tree branch in nature. If those items are not available, just holding any heavy objects by your sides as you walk can be beneficial.”

A key, take-home message when beginning any green-exercise program is to keep an open mind. There are so many activities we can enjoy outdoors. Reddy considers green exercise anything that gets the heart rate going, which can include diverse activities like golf, gardening in the backyard or swimming in a lake.

While getting the blood pumping, remember to breathe in the fresh air, listen to the songbirds and soak up the summer sunshine. Masterson is a proponent of outside yoga to refocus the mind and deeply reconnect with our surroundings.

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

Based on Nikola Tesla’s and Dr.

I’ve

Gut Health for Kids

CLEVER STRATEGIES FOR PICKY EATERS

by Sheila Julson

Most kids look forward to summer vacation, but the dog days can eventually lead to boredom and over-snacking. By creatively offering children healthy, diverse foods, presented in ways to please even finicky palates, parents can support microbiome health while establishing a lifetime of good eating habits.

Tickle Their Palate

“Foods with probiotic-containing living cultures or fermented foods can add beneficial bacteria to the gut,” says Jill Castle, a Massachusetts-based pediatric dietitian and founding CEO of The Nourished Child, an online nutrition resource for parents. She recommends incorporating treats that are alive, tart and bubbling with healthful microbes.

“Parents can make sure they offer a variety of prebiotic and probiotic foods routinely at mealtimes as options to taste and try. The good news is there are many healthy, gut-supporting foods for children to eat,” she advises.

Yogurt with live or active cultures and kefir, a fermented milk drink, both contain these beneficial probiotics. “Although kefir tends to be sour, some brands have flavored kefir, such as strawberry, mango or peach,” Castle explains. “I’ve had great luck introducing this to children who are picky, because it’s smooth and creamy and tastes like a smoothie.”

She also notes that kombucha, a fizzy, fermented tea with live and active cultures, is available in fruity flavors that appeal to children. Pickles fermented over time with salt and water are a source of healthy bacteria for the gut. And although cheeses are fermented, only a few have live, active cultures. Castle recommends gouda, mozzarella or cheddar.

Sneak in the Fiber

According to Dr. Joanne Aponte, a naturopathic doctor at Lakeside Natural Medicine, in Milwaukee, a diverse diet high in fiber is key to supporting a healthy gut microbiome. “All veggies are beneficial, but ones high in galacto-oligosaccharide (GOS) and fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS) prebiotics help grow and support healthy gut bacteria,” she explains. GOS-rich foods include beans, lentils and peas, along with broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts, while FOS-predominant choices are garlic, onions, asparagus, artichokes and leeks.

Aponte also recommends chia, flax, pumpkin and sunflower seeds, which can be ground up in an inexpensive coffee grinder and added to smoothies, oatmeal,

yogurt or home-baked goods such as cookies, pancakes or waffles. “Sunflower butter can be used to make cookies,” Aponte notes. “I make oatmeal-sunflower butter cookies that are packed with microbiomesupporting oatmeal, pumpkin, ground chia seeds and, of course, chocolate chips.”

For children that are choosy about vegetables, Aponte suggests making zucchini or carrot muffins with ground chia seeds or walnuts. Entice children to eat raw veggies by offering dipping sauces, such as teriyaki, ranch dressing or salsa. Aponte notes that skins should be left on vegetables whenever possible because they contain fiber, which helps feed the gut microbiome.

“It takes some experimentation, but encourage your child to try lots of different foods,” Aponte says. “Some kids might prefer a black bean spread or dip, or refried beans, versus eating whole beans. There are also pastas made with chickpeas or lentils. Veggies like onion or zucchini can be chopped small and hidden in spaghetti sauce.”

Add a Pinch of Fun

Katrina Lien, the program development specialist for Sanford fit, a children's fitness program in rural South Dakota, North Dakota and Minnesota, suggests that parents

find ways to engage and empower kids to make healthy lifestyle choices.

“Try offering new foods with foods that you know your kids already like,” she says. “When you introduce something new or unfamiliar alongside foods that are a well-known favorite, kids are more open to trying the unfamiliar food.”

Attempt to make foods more interesting and fun, Lien advises. “This can be done by how you arrange the food items on the plate or cutting foods into different shapes. For example, use a cookie cutter to turn simple cucumber slices into a heart or a star.”

According to Lien, when parents involve their children in snack and meal preparation, kids feel included and excited to try the foods they helped create. Although getting kids interested in unfamiliar foods can be laborious and time-consuming, parents should remind themselves to be patient and remain consistent.

Sanford fit offers free, online resources through printable literature, videos, lessons and games at fit.SanfordHealth.org.

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

Protecting Pets From Lyme Disease

PREVENTION AND SYMPTOM MANAGEMENT TIPS

by Paige Cerull

When the weather is nice and we crave outdoor adventures with our pets, we may not want to think about Lyme disease, but it’s a good idea to take precautions to avoid an infection. One bite from an infected tick could lead to troubling health concerns. Despite the risks, there is no reason to hide indoors, as there are numerous actions we can take to protect our animal companions from infection and to relieve their symptoms should they contract the ailment.

Disease Prevalence in the U.S.

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, Lyme disease is spread by bites from blacklegged deer ticks or western blacklegged ticks that carry the disease-causing bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. While cases have been reported in nearly every U.S. state, Lyme disease is most common in the Northeast, Upper Midwest and Northwest. A 2018 study published in Environmetrics found that the preva-

lence of Lyme disease in dogs is getting worse in the Northeast and spreading into regions that weren’t previously considered to be high risk, including areas in North Dakota, Iowa, Illinois, Ohio, Michigan and Tennessee.

Symptoms in Cats, Dogs and Horses

Lyme disease affects animals differently. Veterinarian Erin O’Leary, founder of Heal House Call Veterinarian, explains that cats with Lyme disease are asymptomatic. “We don’t see any symptoms in cats, so we don’t tend to test or treat for Lyme in cats,” she explains.

Canine Lyme disease is a different story. Per O’Leary, dogs often exhibit lameness that may shift among the legs. Fever and swelling in the joints are common. Dogs can also experience a serious kidney complication called Lyme nephritis that causes them to feel very sick, drink lots of water and urinate more. Two studies performed by IDEXX, a developer of diagnostic and software

products for animals, revealed that dogs exposed to tick-borne diseases, including Lyme disease, had a 43 percent increased risk of developing chronic kidney disease.

According to the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, horses with Lyme disease may experience weight loss, lameness that shifts among the legs, muscle tenderness, low-grade fever and swollen joints.

Preventing Tick Bites

Nicole Savageau, a veterinarian with The Vets, notes that pet owners can naturally reduce their pet’s risk of being bitten by a tick by keeping their yards in check. “Ticks prefer to live in areas with tall grass, weeds and leaf litter,” she says. “Keeping your yard tidy by mowing your lawn and removing any dead leaves or debris can help reduce the number of ticks in your yard.”

Pet owners may also use food-grade diatomaceous earth, a non-toxic powder, to help kill ticks in areas where pets like to spend time. Several natural fly sprays, many of which help to repel ticks, are also available for horses.

Removing a Tick

It’s important to carefully inspect pets for tick bites after spending time outdoors. “If you can remove the tick within 24 to 48 hours of the bite, it won’t transmit Lyme disease,” O’Leary maintains. She recommends tools like the Tick Twister or a pair of tweezers to safely coax a tick from their pet. “If you can get down to where the head is inserted and squeeze that with tweezers, that’s the easiest thing to do,” she says.

Savageau suggests keeping pet hair trimmed short, which can make it easier to spot and remove ticks, and cleaning the bite site with soap and water or an antiseptic solution to prevent infection. It’s important to watch for signs of inflammation or infection, like redness, swelling or discharge. “If any of these symptoms appear, or if the pet develops a fever or lethargy, the owner should contact their veterinarian for advice,” she says.

Caring for an Infected Pet

According to O’Leary, the antibiotic doxy-

Lyme disease, and giving the pet a bit of turmeric to eat can relieve inflammation, though it is best to consult with a veterinarian regarding the most appropriate treatment options and dosages. To reduce a fever, soaking a towel in cool water and applying it around a pet’s paws and ears will help.

Savageau highlights the importance of feeding pets a balanced and nutritious diet that supports the immune system, as well as supplements and other natural remedies. “This may include adding probiotics and omega-3 fatty acids to their food to support gut health and reduce inflammation. Herbs like echinacea may help stimulate the immune system and support the body’s ability to fight infections,” she says, adding, “Always consult with a veterinarian before starting any natural or alternative treatment for pets, as some may be harmful or interfere with prescribed medications.”

Paige Cerulli is a freelance writer in Western Massachusetts specializing in the health

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healing ways

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Regenerative Techniques for a Healthy Ecosystem

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Mislabeled Melatonin Gummies

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Acupuncture

KATE MANSFIELD ACUPUNCTURE

716 Greenwich St, the West Village NYC & 41 Union Square West, NYC 929-277-0760

katemansfieldacu@gmail.com

KateMansfieldAcupuncture.com

5 Element acupuncture in the West Village and Union Square, providing an integrative approach to health and wellness, bringing the whole of you back into balance, alleviating symptoms, and improving your overall sense of wellbeing.

Alexander Technique

JEAN MCCLELLAND, MMUS., MAMSAT

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Private lessons and workshops: voice, breathing and Alexander Technique. Jean McClelland has more than 40 years’ experience as a performer and teacher. She has helped thousands of students free their bodies, strengthen their breathing, and uncover the natural beauty of their voices. See ad, page 21.

Chiropractic

CENTER FOR THE ALIGNMENT OF BODY, MIND & SPIRIT

Dr. Gina Marino

2050 Wantagh Ave, Wantagh

516-221-3500

Align-Me.com

Dr. Marino utilizes a combination of gentle chiropractic spinal adjustments, Reiki and bodywork to reduce pain, lessen the effects of stress on your system, restore flexibility and ensure optimum vitality. See ad, page 10.

Clinincal Nutrition

THE BIAMONTE CENTER FOR CLINICAL NUTRITION

Michael Biamonte, CCN

2185 34th Ave, Ste 14D • Astoria, NY 866-240-8651

info@health-truth.com Health-Truth.com

Michael Biamonte has been in practice for over 30 years, is the author of “The Candida Chronicles” and is a World Recognized Candida elimination expert. His office has proprietary software developed for NASA that helps identify and treat all nutritional deficiencies. Offering both online and In-Person appointments.

Coaching

CANDIDA R DIAZ

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Therapy: FacetoFaceCounseling.com

Instagram @CandidaRDiaz

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LIVING THE MIRACLE

Dr. Michael Berlin

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DrMikeBerlin.com/LivingTheMiracle

Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxiety? My unique proprietary method will help you break free into deep inner peace, purpose, and passion…forever. Find out how you can release your true inner self and transform stress and conflict once and for all. Call now for a free consultation.

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Manhattan: 30 East 40th St

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Long Island City: 3015 38th Ave

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Here’s why you’ll want to use the Chemist Shop

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Conscious Centers

AUM SHANTI BOOKSHOP

230 E 14th St, NYC

212-260-2866 • AumShantiBookshop.com

Aum Shanti Bookshop is a community-oriented spiritual gallery providing offerings that inspire clarity, guidance and inspiration on one’s journey. They offer high-vibration, reikicharged and spiritually energized items such as a semi-precious gems and tumbled stones, one-of-a kind rare crystal specimens and clusters, beautifully hand-crafted jewelry made with love and empowering energy. Join for tarot, psychic and astrology readings.

NAMASTE BOOKSHOP & HEALING CENTER

2 W 14th St, NYC

212-645-0141

NamasteBookshop.com

Namaste Bookshop and Healing Center offers a unique and large selection of Eastern and Western philosophy books, tarot cards, crystals, pendulums, calendars, wind chimes, incense, greeting cards, yoga accessories, meditation cushions, instructional and music CDs and DVDs, salt lamps, and 20 sections of books – including Spanish. The event space above the bookshop holds classes, workshops and book signings, and provides rooms for regular readers and practitioners.

Your source for natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.

Health Food Store

WHOLE FOODS MARKET

8 Locations in Manhattan WholeFoodsMarket.com

Whole Foods Market is an Eco-minded chain with natural & organic grocery items, housewares & other products. We support local communities & agriculture, practice and advance environmental stewardship, support & rewards team member excellence, and encourage and educate on all aspects of healthy living. See ad, page 28.

Herbal Remedies

HERBASWAY

800-672-7322 • HerbaSway.com

Founded in 1996, HerbaSway Laboratories is located in Wallingford, CT. Our formulas are based on traditional herbal combinations that have been used for thousands of years.  Using only the purest ingredients and wild-crafted herbs, in combination with the latest Western scientific research, HerbaSway’s formulas are synergistically blended to produce optimal balance in your body. See ad, page 17.

Holistic Dentistry

CARIODONTAL

A Place for Dental Wellness

Jonathan Richter DDS, FAGD

Specializing in Periodontics and Implantology Periodontal Prosthesis, and Fixed Prosthodontics

525 West End Ave, Suite 1G, NYC 212-874-2880 • Cariodontal.com

We welcome you to come in for a comprehensive exam of teeth, gums, early detection, and oral health problems. We offer the following services: holistic dental care, mercury-free dentistry, TMJ disorder and treatment, treatment for sleep disorders, Invisalign and orthodontics, dental implant, sleep apnea. Payment plans available. See ad, back cover.

GOLDEN DENTAL WELLNESS

444 Community Dr, Ste 204, Manhasset 516-627-8400 • GoldenSmile.com

A practice that cares for you like family. The philosophy of our dental wellness center is a whole-body approach working closely with your healthcare practitioners that you already have a relationship with. The practice incorporates the teaching of Huggins, IOAMT, and much more. See ad, page 2.

HOLISTIC DENTAL & WELLNESS CENTER

1692 Newbridge Rd. N. Bellmore, NY 516-221-7447 • Holisticdds.com

Offering a full range of dental services, treating adults and children with an integrative and systemic philosophy. Dr. Rizvi earned her DDS from NYU and completed residencies in general dentistry at both the Kings County Hospital Center and Kingsbrook Jewish Medical Center. See ad, page 31.

INTEGRATIVE DENTAL SPECIALISTS

Long Island: 245 Hillside Ave, Williston Park, NY • 516-253-1800 Manhattan: 120 E. 56th St • 212-845-9740 drjeff@idsli.com

IntegrativeDentalNY.com

Dr. Jeff created Integrative Dental Specialist to provide the best comprehensive dental care today. There is always an emphasis on biocompatible and holistic dentistry to create a natural and beautiful smile you can be proud of. Dr. Jeff has achieved a highly professional, relaxed, caring, and pain-free environment for his patients, with sedation dentistry available if required. See ad, page 29.

NATURE’S DENTAL

50 Broadway, Greenlawn • NY 11740 631-316-1816 • NaturesDental.net

What is made by nature is always going to be better than what is artificially made. This is why at Nature’s Dental the conservation of your natural tooth structure— the Biomimetic approach to dentistry—is at the core of our minimally invasive practice philosophy. See ad, page 5.

TRIBECA CENTER FOR INTEGRATIVE HOLISTIC DENTISTRY

17 Park Place, NYC 212-732-2200 • Holistic-Dentists.com

Dr. Lewis Gross has more than 31 years’ experience providing holistic dentistry to adults and children with his staff of dental specialists and integrative practitioners. Offering less invasive and more natural solutions for patients with difficult dental issues and those who seek just a good family dentist. Our recently renovated, stateof-the-art facility, offers among other things, laser dentistry, metal-free implants, non-invasive oral cancer screening, ozone and alternatives to surgery and root canal.

Holistic Health Center

CLEANSING CONCEPTS

353 Lexington Ave, Ste 1603 Manhattan • 212-256-0032

269 East Main St, Ste F1

Smithtown, NY • 631-656-6313

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Our services include Colon Cleansing, Ionic Detox Foot Baths, BELD Lymphatic Drainage, Therapeutic Cupping, Infrared Sauna & Wellness Cocoon, FIT Body weight loss wraps, and Ear Candling. We also created our own line of digestive care products, including Detox Clay and Essential 4 Digestion Kit, that can be delivered right to your doorstep. See ad, page 8.

Marconics

MARCONICS

Robin Landau, Master Teacher

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robinjoylandau@gmail.com Marconics.com

Marconics is a full-spectrum multidimensional Ascension Energy Healing modality. Handed down by Spirit for the evolution of humanity, Marconics brings healing to the subtle and multidimensional body templates, harmonizing ego and Spirit and balancing the ascending physical, mental and emotional bodies. If you’re on a spiritual healing and evolution path or interested in becoming a Marconics practitioner, visit our website. See ad, page 23.

Meditation

EMBRACE THE MIND

212-726-1420

publisher@naturalawakeningsny.com

A 30-minute meditation session, facilitated by Natural Awakenings NYC and Long Island co-publisher, Michael Lehrman, will consist of a specific breathing technique in combination with meditation. The free sessions are open to all, with no experience and no expectations necessary, honoring a collective coming together of Natural Awakenings readers. Via Google Meets, participants can choose on or off-camera, and the sessions will not be recorded. See calendar listing, page 45.

Nature & Hiking

MRNATURALNYC

Roger Dubin

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mrnaturalnyc@gmail.com

Instagram @MrNaturalNYC

My mission is to connect people with the beauty and health benefits of hiking and nature. I share this on my Instagram and practice it by supervising over 60 miles of trails in Harriman State Park and being a hike leader and naturalist for the Nature Place Day Camp. I am also the Marketing Director for Natural Awakenings where I help people and businesses further healthy living on a healthy planet. Email me for hiking tips and route suggestions. Find Hikes: www.NYNJTC.org. Expose your kids to Nature: www.thenatureplace.com

Naturopathic Medicine

FINKER WELLNESS

Bellmore

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Utilizing Naturopathic Medicine to help her patients feel better naturally. Many illnesses can be treated by nutrition, botanicals, and nutraceuticals. Dr. Finker provides personalized health care solutions for her patients. See ad, page 11.

POLLACK WELLNESS INSTITUTE

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Dr. David L Pollack specializes in functional nutrition which is the science of helping repair and restore the body naturally without the use of drugs and surgery. Many of his clients were frustrated with their past health care; conventional or holistic. Most seek help with their thyroid, weight loss, digestive disorders, hormone imbalances including infertility, menstrual & Low T. We accept those with or without diagnosis, complex and simple disorders. Most insurance policies accepted for many services. See ad, page 13.

Nutrition & Digestion

MY FRUITFUL BODY

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Angela Houlie offers nutrition counseling services for individuals, families, children and teens. She has extensive experience working with eating disorders, maternal and prenatal care, picky eaters, and general nutrition. All services offered via telehealth. See ad, page 19.

Ozone Therapy

DR. HOWARD ROBINS

The Healing Center 200 W 57th St, Ste 807, NYC 212-581-0101 • drhowardrobins@gmail.com OzoneDoctor.net

If you have a disease or condition that you haven’t been able to get rid of, Ozone Therapy will most likely be the answer, even for people that have suffered for years and have lost all hope. If you are questioning if your condition can be treated, call or email Dr. Robins today. See ads, pages 3 & 15.

Pyschotherapy

PRESENT CENTERED THERAPIES

Michael Mongno, MFT, Ph.D, LP Upper West Side • 212-799-0001 drmongno@presentcenteredtherapies.com PresentCenteredTherapies.com

Michael Mongno MFT, Ph.D LP is a licensed psychoanalyst, marriage and family therapist, and holistic counselor based in Manhattan. Committed to creating a real difference in the world, his “Real change in real time” describes the dynamic, effective synthesis of personal growth and spiritual transformation.

Psychic

CLAIRVOYANT READINGS & CLASSES

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Tori Quisling, Clairvoyant & RTT Therapist offers readings and transformational programs. Over 36 years of experience, trained and worked for the Berkeley Psychic Institute, Tori assists you in deep spiritual answers, past lives, relationships and energy balance. See ad, page 19.

Spiritual Counseling

DR. HEATHER SHEA

Everyday Knowings

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Trauma Recovery Coach

BRETT COTTER

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Stress is Gone services include 1-on-1 coaching, meditation classes, workshops and retreats. Membership products include online courses, mobile apps, workbooks and instructional guides. Stress is Gone members are empowered with increased awareness and the tools to release tension, anxiety and stress. The program offers individuals, families, schools and businesses year-round relief that works.

Wellness Products / Dietary Supplements

ENERGY USA INC

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info@product.energy

Product.Energy

Worldwide manufacturer and seller of herbal drops, herbal creams, and vitamins based on the principles of TCM. Our products may serve as prevention, support, replenishment, and relief for many common illnesses and harmonize body and mind—online orders and consultations at product.energy. See ad, page 33.

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MARCONICS

In-Person

Certified Practitioner Training

Immerse yourself in the energies of Ascension with like-minded seekers as you explore the deeper truths of humanity’s origins and your role in the shifting galactic paradigm.

Upcoming Workshops:

LEVELS I - III INTENSIVES*

MARCONICS 'NO-TOUCH', 'INTEGRATED CHAKRA UNIFICATION' & 'QUANTUM RECALIBRATION'

July 13-17 • Cortlandt Manor, NY

August 5-9 • Chester/ Sugarloaf. NY

September 9-10/ 15-17 • Long Beach, NY

October 21-25 • Allentown, PA

November 17-21 • Naples, FL

December 1-5 • Long Beach, NY

*Classes may be taken separately

Robin Landau, Marconics Master Teacher 516-369-3653

RobinJoyLandau@gmail.com

www.MARCONICS.com

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Women's Retreat

Remembering Your True Essence

Awaken Your Spirit & Transcend Your Trauma

A 5-night, 6-day retreat to discover the healing lands of Tulum, Mexico, to reach a state of expansive freedom.

Nourish Your Body, Clarify Your Highest Vision, Empower Your Most Centered & Aligned Life

November 8 – 13

Casa Maya Kaan, Mexico

DivineLifestyles.com/transcendence

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JUMPSTART YOUR HOLISTIC PRACTICE / BUSINESS

Carol Leitner, MBA.

Tuesdays, July 11 & 25 noon - 1pm

Carol Leitner, a marketer and certified Kripalu Yoga instructor, is accepting clients and holistic doctors/practitioners for her July program. Included is business and holistic/spiritual coaching by Carol and her team of experts on effective marketing and use of social media (Facebook and Linkedin); networking that works; creating alternative income streams; raising the emotional temperature of potential clients; showing your value and charging appropriately, etc.

Leitner will market a networking event for the client, who will then present services and products there. The client will also have the opportunity to have an article published in Natural Awakenings magazine.

Info: Call 516-242-8270, email carolleitner1@gmail.com

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MIND • BODY • BREATH FREE Natural Awakenings Meditation Group

Hosted by Michael Lehrman Co-Publisher, Natural Awakenings NYC & Long Island

The free sessions are open to ALL, with no experience and no expectations necessary, honoring a collective coming together of Natural Awakenings readers.

Wednesday, July 12 6:00-6:30pm / Google Meets

To learn more or register, contact publisher@naturalawakeningsny.com or call: 212-726-1420

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To SUBMIT AN EVENT which you want to appear in BOTH - the next print issue and our online calendarscan the QR code to the right or go to: NaturalAwakeningsNY.com and click on the arrow next to the SUBMISSION tab on top of the website, then select "Mark Your Calendar Submission"

October

Classified rates are $1 per word, per month. To place a listing, email content to Publisher@NaturalAwakeningsNY.com.

advertising opportunities

GROW YOUR BUSINESS | Connect your healthy, green and peaceful living business to Natural Awakenings' readers. Contact us to learn about marketing and advertising opportunities: 212-726-1420 or Publisher@ NaturalAwakeningsNY.com.

business opportunities

BE A NATURAL AWAKENINGS PUBLISHER | 2023 could be your year to live your passion and be your own boss. If you share our passion for a healthy lifestyle, healthy planet and seek a creative homebased career with flexibility, consider being the next publisher for the WestchesterPutnam-Dutchess edition. Visit WakeUp Naturally.com/franchise to learn more.

BE A PART OF INNOVATIVE HEALING with the Alternative Healing Clinic-Seeking experienced Reiki healers, Estheticians, massage therapists, and Reflexologists to join our dynamic team of practitioners in Mahopac, NY, right off the Taconic Pkwy. Flexible hours and friendly atmosphere. Immediate start. Please email your resume and references to info@ alternativehealingclinic.com.

help wanted

BE A PART OF SOMETHING BIGWORK FROM HOPE FT/PT | Turn your passion for wellness into a paycheck! Be at the intersection of the booming natural health field and work from home and in an e-commerce industry. Contact Cindy Rosenbaum of Rosenbaum Wellness. 914.806.6559

CORTLANDT MANOR/NOW HIRING

| Licensed Massage Therapist, Experienced Tarot Reader. Universal Healing Arts, Cortlandt Manor, Call Shima at 914-737-4325

PART TIME/ FULL TIME servers, baristas and kitchen staff.  Brooklyn Organic Kitchen is looking for like-minded individuals to join our team!  Previous restaurant experience is required, references will be checked.  Resumes may be emailed to brooklynorganickitchen@ gmail.com.

services

CLARITY READINGS TO REGULATE YOUR REALITY! | Sugar Coating/Judgement Free Zone Specializing In Diving Deep Into Mental Energy Descriptive & Detail Oriented Use Of Imagery & Sensory Gifts Forte In Career/ Relationships/ Life Questions Must be at a stage of acceptance to consult with Lisa Anderson. 323-484-1601. shopkrisallis@ gmail.com. krisallis.com/clarity-readings

EVIDENTIAL MEDIUM GAIL | 20-30 min. reading, $40. Time to check in with the other side. A medium blends natural ability with training to connect to your loved ones in spirit. My goal is to bring evidence that your loved one is well on the other side through evidence, shared memories, and small talk. MediumGail.com.

wanted

NATURAL AWAKENINGS READERS | We want to spotlight one of you in the next edition. To learn more, please email Publisher@NaturalAwakeningsNY.com.

NYC FITNESS PRACTITIONERS | We want to spotlight one of you in the next edition of Natural Awakenings magazine. Please email Publisher@NaturalAwakeningsNY.com. to learn more.

WHERE TO FIND US