Natural Awakenings Greater Pittsburgh May 2024

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2024 Editorial Calendar

January | Health & Wellness

February | Heart-Healthy Lifestyle

March | Food & Nutrition

April | Eco-Travel

PA NaturalAwakeningsSWPA.com

| Finding Your

| Whole Body Alignment

| Reconnect & Rejuvenate

Happy Women’s Wellness Month and Happy Mother’s Day!

A friend recently posted a meme on social media giving kudos to women who support other women. I love that, and have always tried to be that type of person. I do admit to a certain bias toward supporting women, but I know that just by supporting all human beings, you have the opportunity to support or even make new opportunities where they might not have existed.

I’m not just talking about “your” people, either. If they are Homo Sapiens, they are your people. They don’t have to be Polish or Italian, they don’t have to be Christian or Jewish, Black or White, Asian or Desi. Let’s not always look for the ways that we are different. If you notice yourself tearing someone down, even in the smallest ways, stop and rethink your actions.

I have said before that we have to keep unlearning the negative stuff that we were indoctrinated into or that we picked up based on a bad experience or just toxic things that others spread. There is a lot of turmoil in this world, and we can make a positive difference by helping other human beings, because no matter how different they may look, we are all the same species.

So this month especially, let’s support other women and their relationships, their businesses, their pursuits, their parenting, their health, their children and their nutrition. If you see a way to support someone, just do it. Make someone’s day and you’ll make you own day, too. BTW, after supporting our fellow humans, there are a few other species out there that could use some TLC, but that’s a story for another day.

Michelle Dalnoky, RN, BA, Publisher

Advertising & Submissions

Flourish, Prosper, Thrive and Rise

Live well Allegheny and UPMC Health Plan will present a Women’s Health Fair: Flourish, Prosper, Thrive and Rise, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., May 4, at Hosanna House, with free health screenings health information and self-care tips on pampering, manicures, massages, beauty tips and a vendor market.

Live Well Allegheny is an initiative to improve the health and wellness of county residents. For example, according to data from the 2022 National Youth Tobacco Survey, more than 3 million middle and high school students currently use tobacco products. The report showed that in 2022, more than one in 10 middle and high school students had used a tobacco product during the past 30 days.

Admission is free. Location: 807 Wallace Ave., Pittsburgh. For more information, call De’Saundra Sullivan at 412-342-1340 or email DesaundraS@HosannaHouse.org or visit LiveWellAllegheny.com.

Spring Hat Luncheon

The 2024 PNC Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy Spring Hat Luncheon, a cherished Pittsburgh tradition where fashion meets philanthropy in a picturesque setting, will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., May 4, at Schenley Park for a day of grace, glamour and greenery to celebrate the arrival of spring. The annual Spring Hat Luncheon is a dazzling affair that fuses sophistication with the splendor of nature.

Each table is adorned with the vibrant colors of the season. Participants will be captivated by the breathtaking beauty of nature, complemented by the stylish array of hats that grace the occasion. From chic fascinators to classic wide-brimmed chapeaus, guests showcase their unique style while supporting a cause close to all our hearts.

The PNC Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy Spring Hat Luncheon was founded in 1999 by Ritchie Battle and Audrey Hillman Fisher with support from Teresa Heinz, and has provided more than $11 million in direct support of Pittsburgh’s park system. Created in 1889 with land donated by heiress Mary Schenley, the park now contains 456 acres of trails, woods and attractions.

Get tickets and more information at PittsburghParks.org/hatlunch.

Mother’s Day Celebration at the Zoo

Sponsored by UPMC Health Plan, the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium will conduct a day at the Zoo with the whole family. Mothers of all generations receive free entry from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., May 12, when accompanied by their children.

The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is honored to play an active role in wildlife conservation efforts locally and around the world. In their latest initiative, they rehabilitated and released seven endangered sea turtles as part of the Sea Turtle Second Chance Program.

Location: 7370 Baker St., Pittsburgh. For more information, visit PittsburghZoo.org/event-mothers-day.

Cereset Anniversary Special

Run for a Reason

Cereset Pittsburgh East is celebrating one year of providing non-invasive neuro-technology that enables to brain to reset itself with an introductory session for $99. Owners Ginny Keteles and Ginna Bartlett say, “We have had a wonderful year helping people experience relief from anxiety, depression, sleep issues, post-concussion issues, PTSD and more. The longer we do Cereset, the more passionate we become about it. We want to continue to get the word out to the community about this life-changing technology.”

Cereset is a wellness experience that helps relax the brain to manage stress, restore hope and achieve restful sleep through patented BrainEcho neuromodulation technology that empowers the brain to reset itself as it hears and “sees” its own reflection. Cereset enables the brain to fully relax and reset itself to its natural balance from the inside-out. There is no outside intervention, stimulus, or medication of any kind; the brain does its own work while clients nap or relax quietly in a comfortable chair.

Location, 3122 Carson Ave., Murrysville. For appointments and more information, call 724-519-7371, email Info@PittsburghEast.Cereset.com or visit Cereset.com. See ad, page 10.

The Dick’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon will be held on May 5. In addition to the marathon, other races include marathon, half marathon, relay, fitness challenge, 5K and other events.

There will be a free Pittsburgh health & Fitness Expo prior to the race from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., May 3 and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., May 4, at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.

The Run for a Reason Charity Program is not just about completing a race, it is about running with a purpose, about becoming a beacon of change and leaving an indelible mark on the world. Step up to the start line with a heart full of purpose and embark on a journey that redefines what running truly means by making strides for a better tomorrow.

Convention Center location: 1000 Fort Duquesne Blvd., Pittsburgh. For race details, visit ThePittsburghMarathon.com and Tinyurl.com/ PittMarathon2024.

Trends in Non-Alcoholic Drinking Habits

A 2023 Gallup Poll found that 62 percent of adults aged 18 to 35 say they drink alcoholic beverages, down from 72 percent two decades ago. The poll noted that young adults also drink less frequently and are less likely to drink to excess. As a result, bars like Happy Accidents, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, are increasing non-alcoholic options to cater to young consumers. The bar offers five mocktails that use ingredients such as matcha, garam masala and capsaicin oils to create complex and flavorful alcohol-free alternatives.

Mingle Mocktails was created by a recovering alcoholic looking for a way to feel included during social outings while choosing not to drink alcohol. Mingle offers flavors such as Key Lime Margarita and Cucumber Melon Mojito that are available in ready-to-drink cans, as well as in bottles for more premium mixing. NielsenIQ reports consistent double-digit growth in the nonalcoholic beer, wine and spirits market. The movement toward nonboozy alternatives is praised by experts for its positive impact on health and well-being, including improved sleep, energy, mental clarity, immunity and mood.

Olga Kochina 5PH/CanvaPro

Medical Cannabis and Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue and localized tenderness. The exact cause is unknown, but factors like genetics, infections and physical or emotional trauma may contribute to its development and fibromyalgia can significantly impact an individual’s daily functioning and quality of life.

Treatment often involves a combination of medications, exercise, stress management and therapy. Integrative approaches such as acupuncture, massage therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy can help manage symptoms.

Some patients find relief from symptoms through medical marijuana, which can alleviate pain, reduce inflammation and improve mood and sleep quality, making it easier for people with fibromyalgia to rest and feel more comfortable. Cannabis targets the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in pain, modulation and inflammation, easing the aches and pains associated with the condition.

To establish a healthy state with fibromyalgia, prioritize regular exercise, stress management, adequate sleep, a balanced diet and social support. For ongoing treatment, maintain regular medical checkups, manage medication effectively, explore integrative therapies and if considering medical marijuana, consult with a healthcare provider experienced in its use for fibromyalgia management.

Irina Staicu, DO, MMS, is the owner of MedMJ Health. For appointments and more information, call 267-337-8944, email Office@medmjhealth.com or visit medmjhealth.com. See ad, page 4.

Holistic Reflexology for Physical and Mental Detoxification

by Dorit Brauer

Determining which area to treat for someone that suffers from respiratory problems, lung reflexes would seem the obvious answer. But to the holistic reflexologist, the obvious answer may not offer the proper solution. The assumption that a practitioner would only stimulate the lung reflex points gives the impression that holistic reflexology functions similar to conventional medicine, which treats different organ systems separately and does not consider the whole human being.

Holistic reflexology always aims at finding the root cause for a physical manifestation, and every healing process begins with the detoxification of the body and mind. Throughout the first sessions, the holistic reflexologist stimulates the cleansing urinary, digestive and lymphatic systems, thus blood circulation, metabolism and removal of toxins are activated.

During this process, metaphysical questions about fears, worldview and the ability to deal with problems are addressed to involve the client in their own healing process. In holistic medicine, the kidneys are related to the emotion of fear, the bladder to emotional pressure

and the lymphatic system to worldview. The digestive organs show us how we are able to digest what is happening in our world.

Only after several holistic reflexology appointments are the liver reflexes fully stimulated, as this may release toxins and a flood of emotions. The liver is the chemical laboratory of the body, fulfilling more than 500 vital functions, and it holistically holds the emotion of anger. The first cleansing sessions promote the body’s readiness to release, let go and shift.

With regard to the respiratory system, we need to understand the deeper meaning. The respiratory organs represent the rhythm of life, as well as contact and relationships. Breathing represents the law of polarity— two different poles, breathing in tension and breathing out relaxation—which form a steady rhythm. One does not exist without the other. If the rhythm is not maintained, an imbalance occurs.

The alveoli of the lungs have a surface of approximately 230 square feet, in contrast to the skin, which has a surface of six-and-a-half feet. The skin forms the border with the outside world, and it is a person’s choice if they want to breach it. The contact of the lungs with the world is indirect, not voluntary. We always need to breathe.

Issues with the respiratory organs show issues with contact and relationships. In addition, the lungs are paired organs, like the kidneys, ovaries and testes. The lungs,, together with the heart, belong to the heart chakra, which deals with love, self-love and the balance of giving and receiving. For the holistic reflexologist, everything is connected, and they bow to the mystery and the wisdom of the human body.

Dorit Brauer is the owner of the Brauer Institute for Holistic Medicine, located at 626 Dow Ave., in Carnegie. For more information, visit BrauerInstitute.com. See ad, page 19.

Conscious Eating

Balancing Gluten Making Peace With an Oft-Maligned

Ingredient

by Deborah Bevilacqua

The rise in prevalence of celiac disease and related conditions, and shifts toward paleo, keto and other gluten-free diets, have driven the gluten-free products market from $973 million in 2014 to $6.5 billion in 2022. The market for these products is expected to reach $15.1 billion by 2032 according to The Brainy Insights, a market research company. However, switching to gluten-free products is not a one-size-fits-all decision.

Celiac disease affects an estimated 1 percent or approximately 3 million Americans, although approximately 60 to 70 percent of those have not been diagnosed, according to the Celiac Disease Foundation. The illness is an autoimmune condition that results in tissue damage in the small intestine, which may be accompanied by abdominal pain, gas and bloating, cognitive impairment, constipation, diarrhea, anxiety, fatigue, anemia, skin rashes and joint pain. It is diagnosed with blood tests and confirmed by taking pictures inside of the small intestine.

The National Institutes of Health report an additional 6 percent of Americans may have a related condition known as non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). While some symptoms of intolerance or sensitivity to gluten are similar to those with celiac disease, NCGS does not come with intestinal damage. Symptoms of NCGS also may occur outside the intestines such as heartburn, feelings of fullness, vomiting, headaches, anxiety, depression, a foggy mind and fibromyalgia-like symptoms.

For those allergic to wheat or other grains containing gluten or that have gluten-related disorders, permanently eliminating gluten is a must. This includes inhaling it, eating it and encountering it through skin or hair.

Gluten and the Gut

Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, spelt, semolina, farro, barley and rye. These grains are a source of fiber, B vitamins, trace minerals and other nutrients. Many studies have

associated whole-grain consumption with improved health outcomes. For instance, as part of a healthy diet, wheat has been found to reduce the risk of diabetes, heart disease and weight gain.

Gluten interplays with the bacteria in the gut. The journal Nutrients published a review in 2021 of various studies that evaluated the effects of a gluten-free diet on the microbiome of healthy, celiac disease and NCGS patients. The researchers found that a gluten-free diet reduced the bacterial richness and affected gut microbiota composition of patients in all three groups. In patients with celiac disease or NCGS, the gluten-free diet created a positive effect on gastrointestinal symptoms and helped restore microbiota population by reducing the population of pro-inflammatory species. However, in healthy patients, a gluten-free diet had a negative effect on the gut by decreasing the number of beneficial species and increasing the number of bad microorganisms.

According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, changes in the amount or activity of good bacteria have been

Olga Larionova from Getty Images/ CanvaPro

associated with gastrointestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, colorectal cancer and irritable bowel syndrome.

“Changes in your diet can alter your microbiome within one to two days,” says Dr. Tom O’Bryan, an expert on wheat-related disorders, NCGS, celiac disease and their link to autoimmune diseases. “When you go on a gluten-free diet, you remove prebiotics that feed the good bacteria in your gut. This then causes the bad bacteria to flourish and reproduce, resulting in increased inflammation in your gut, a contributor to disease.” This makes sense as 70 to 80 percent of immune cells are present in the gut.

Effective Gluten-Free Dieting

Whether a gluten-free diet is required because of a gluten-related disorder or by choice, it is essential to add prebiotic foods to replace the beneficial impacts lost when eliminating wheat and other grains. Prebiotic and probiotic supplements are a start, but consumption of vegetables is the key.

“Probiotics are most effective when they are combined with a high-fiber diet featuring a variety of vegetables,” says O’Bryan. He recommends at least one daily serving of root vegetables, such as rutabaga, turnip, parsnip, radish, carrot and sweet potato, and two daily servings of prebiotic foods like bananas, garlic, onion, asparagus, leafy green vegetables, legumes, artichoke, apples and cocoa.

“I also recommend a forkful or more of fermented foods each day. Vary it up with some sauerkraut, kimchi, miso or fermented beets, or drink some kefir or kombucha.”

“If you're experiencing digestive discomfort, give a healthy, gluten-free diet a try for at least 30 days and assess how you feel,” recommends Michelle Ross, a board-certified nutrition specialist, licensed dietician and functional medicine practitioner. “My recommendation is to stay away from the gluten-free aisle. The truth is many people that switch to a gluten-free diet often turn to processed gluten-free foods. The focus

should be on consuming whole, real, unprocessed foods.”

Finding Balance

Even for those without gluten-related conditions, too much gluten can create its own health complications. In a 2015 study published in Nutrients, gliadin, a component of gluten, was administered to biopsies taken from the small intestines of healthy, celiac disease and NCGS patients. The researchers found each group experienced increases in inflammatory markers and in markers of leaky gut, with the healthy group having the greatest increase in interleukin 10, a rapidly activated pro-inflammatory cytokine that defends the body against microbial invasion.

For otherwise healthy people, finding a balance between enough gluten to feed gut probiotics but not so much that it results in gut permeability issues is important. “If you decide to continue consuming gluten, opt for whole or minimally processed einkorn wheat, rye, barley, spelt and Kamut wheat,” says Ross. “These grains have not undergone hybridization and are not typically sprayed with glyphosate before harvesting. Additionally, consider consuming sprouted or fermented forms of these grains, as they can be more digestible.”

Deborah Bevilacqua is a journalist and contributor to Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation.

EzumeImages from Getty Images/CanvaPro

Purple Cauliflower Salad

This salad is full of cruciferous vegetables, including cauliflower, broccoli and Brussels sprouts, which have a nutrient called diindolylmethane (DIM) that helps process estrogen in a healthier way. Pumpkin seeds are a great source of zinc, which supports progesterone production, and magnesium, which can help with period cramps. Avocado and olive oil are rich in hormone- supportive omega-3s.

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

1 head purple cauliflower

¼ head white cauliflower

¼ head broccoli or 1 cup Brussels sprouts

2 Tbsp canned red kidney beans (optional)

½ avocado, sliced

1-2 Tbsp pumpkin seeds

1 Tbsp olive oil or avocado oil

Pinch of salt

Dash of black pepper

Preheat oven to 320°F. Cut cauliflower and broccoli into florets (or slice Brussels sprouts in half) and add them to a baking tray. Drizzle the veggies with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place into preheated oven to roast for about 15 minutes. Stir the vegetables and roast for another five to 10 minutes until fork-tender and golden brown. Remove from oven and set aside to cool. Combine with other ingredients.

Recipe courtesy of Deborah Matthew.

Easy Fertility Kitchari (Quinoa and Bean Stew)

YIELD: 6 SERVINGS

2 cups dried mung beans, soaked in water for 8-12 hours

1 Tbsp coconut oil, ghee or olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

1 tsp ground cumin

14 oz spinach, kale, collards or any other greens

2 tsp Celtic sea salt

1 13.5-oz can full-fat coconut milk

2 cups quinoa

7½ cups water

Optional: cilantro, avocado

Heat oil in a pressure cooker (such as an Instant Pot); add onion, garlic and cumin. Sauté until fragrant; stir occasionally. Add greens, soaked mung beans, quinoa and water. Put the lid on, and pressure cook for 12 minutes. Once pressure has fully released, open the lid and stir in coconut milk. Top it off with fresh avocado and cilantro before serving.

Recipe courtesy of Aumatma Simmons.

Sewcream from Getty Images/CanvaPro

joshu arainey photography from Getty Images/CanvaPro

The Road to Hormonal Harmony Finding Balance and

by Marlaina Donato

Like a well-built home, the human body’s quality of life depends upon a sturdy foundation. A complex, hormonal matrix determines our vitality and impacts major areas of health, including growth and development, stamina, sleep cycles, bone health, blood sugar levels, fertility, weight and mood. Fifty hormones take turns keeping us alive, as well as impacting lesser concerns such as hair and skin quality.

Excessive stress, certain pharmaceutical medications, hormonal contraception, autoimmune diseases and, in rare instances,

Thriving

tumors can throw the body into metabolic chaos. Supporting these fundamental allies through lifestyle changes that include a nutrient-packed diet, improved gut health, supplementation and medication, when needed, can help us get back on track. Most importantly, prevention is possible with the same approach.

“Hormones are the behind-the-scenes influencers, ensuring your body operates smoothly and adjusting to the ever-changing demands of your environment and internal states. When this delicate balance is thrown

off, the consequences can be widespread, affecting virtually every aspect of your health,” affirms North Carolina-based hormone specialist Deborah Matthew, M.D., author of This Is Not Normal: A Busy Woman's Guide to Symptoms of Hormone Imbalance.

Even a slight imbalance of certain hormones—whether a deficiency or an excess—can compromise digestion, raise low-density lipoprotein (“bad” cholesterol), downgrade sex drive, foster cognitive issues, amp up anxiety and even affect heart rhythm. Lifestyle factors like smoking, poor

diet and lack of exercise also play a role in disturbing equilibrium. Matthew explains, “Hormones are chemical messengers that coordinate many functions well beyond the realm of reproductive health. They are produced by your endocrine glands and circulate through your bloodstream, delivering critical instructions to every tissue and organ.”

Oxytocin and Other Key Players

Like orchestra players, hormones work together, but the hormone oxytocin is the conductor. Hormones such as estrogen and testosterone, as well as the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, cannot be produced or used properly without oxytocin. Good gut health also depends on it. “The most powerful hormone in our body, hands down, is oxytocin. It also happens to be an alkalinizing hormone and helps oppose the negative, chronic effects of cortisol, our stress hormone,” says Anna Cabeca, a triple-board-certified OB-GYN and author of The Hormone Fix, Keto-Green 16 and MenuPause. “Oxytocin is what we refer to as the love and bonding hormone. It’s also a longevity hormone—muscle-regenerating, mood-elevating, pain-relieving and immune-boosting. It is vital to have a high level of it if we want to boost and support the other hormones.”

Cabeca recommends boosting oxytocin naturally. “It can be as simple as thinking of something that puts a smile on your face, brings you joy and happiness, makes you laugh or gives you that warm fuzzy feeling inside,” she explains, adding that cultivating a sense of gratitude “will help boost your oxytocin level and reduce your stress hormone cortisol, which, when too high, leads to inflammation and acidity.” Her other go-to oxytocin allies are funny movies, being in nature, hugs, intimacy, therapeutic massage and activities with others like yoga classes, hiking or team sports.

The symbiotic relationship between the thyroid and our stress-fighting adrenal glands is also fundamental in systemic harmony. A 2015 study published in European Thyroid Journal revealed that 5 percent of patients with autoimmune thyroid disease also had an underlying primary adrenal insufficiency. An older study published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism in 2009 showed that 41 percent of patients with compromised adrenal function also suffered from hypothyroidism.

“In today’s high-stress environment, our cortisol production can become dysregulated. This is often called ‘adrenal fatigue’, although that term is not recognized by the conventional medicine world,” says Matthew. “This cortisol dysregulation often results in profound tiredness, cravings for salt or sugar, reliance on caffeine for energy and difficulty handling stress.” She notes that despite its widespread occurrence, adrenal compromise slips between the cracks of conventional diagnosis. Recognizing the interconnectedness of bodily systems is vital.

“A holistic approach to thyroid and adrenal health considers the entire spectrum of an individual’s health, lifestyle and emotional

well-being,” Matthew says. “Holistic practitioners often employ comprehensive testing to uncover subtle imbalances, utilize natural supplements like adaptogenic herbs to support function and recommend dietary and lifestyle changes that address underlying causes of thyroid and adrenal symptoms.”

Fertility Factors

For many, planning a family is one of life’s high points, but according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 13 percent of married women under the age of 30 struggle to conceive; about 22 percent of married women between ages 30 and 39 are hit the hardest. The frustration can be agonizing. “I often say that infertility is not a diagnosis; it’s a symptom,” attests Aumatma Simmons, a double-board-certified naturopathic doctor, endocrinologist and fertility specialist at the Holistic Fertility Institute, in Berkeley, California. “When we consider infertility as a symptom, we start understanding that it is the check-engine light that our body is giving off, trying to tell us something is out of whack. Maybe it’s the hormones or something somewhere else in the body. The root causes must be discovered and addressed.”

Common contributors to infertility include amenorrhea (absent periods) caused by physical or emotional stress, weight extremes (obesity or underweight) and age. Simmons underscores the role of diet and lifestyle in both women and men. “It is well-researched that lifestyle habits like smoking, alcohol and marijuana can contribute to fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Additionally, there is ongoing research about the role of sedentary lifestyles and body mass index as potential indicators of pregnancy outcomes. Even blood sugar and inflammation in the male partner can impact fertility, as well as a woman’s ability to carry a pregnancy to term.”

Andrey Cherkasov from Getty Images/CanvaPro

Simmons directly attributes food habits to egg and sperm quality, asserting, “Diet is vital in the role of implantation. There are studies that have shown that gut inflammation contributes to uterine inflammation, which directly affects implantation and pregnancy outcomes.” She also connects the dots between the mental and emotional health of both parents and baby success. Negative talk, poor self-esteem, responsibility overload and an inability to let go or ask for help can also foster infertility.

What We Can Do

Taking a few steps toward a more balanced body can go a long way. Cabeca emphasizes, “Deep, restorative sleep is essential to regenerate and rebalance. Physical activity is absolutely necessary for hormone circulation throughout the blood and lymphatic system, so doing things that make you huff and puff and sweat daily is critical.” She also recommends alkalizing the diet by amping up hydration and fortifying meals with low-carbohydrate food sources, low-glycemic fruits like berries, leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables and sprouts. Adding intermittent fasting to the mix also packs a positive punch, especially as progesterone and estrogen levels decrease with age and we have a higher risk for developing insulin resistance.

Everyday foods for hormonal happiness include healthy, high-fat foods like avocados, raw butter, ghee, egg yolks (rich in choline and iodine for healthy thyroid function), soaked nuts and seeds, flaxseed, hemp and olive oil; clean proteins like quinoa, organic pasture-raised poultry and beef, wild-caught fish, lentils and beans; and spices like turmeric, cinnamon, cumin, garlic and fresh cilantro. Avoid trans fats, sugar and refined carbs, which trigger inflammation and disrupt hormonal balance.

Matthew recommends cortisol-lowering activities like meditation, yoga and breathwork, which help balance cortisol levels, improve our resilience to daily stressors and support overall hormonal health. She also stresses the importance of seven to nine hours of restful sleep by “establishing a consistent bedtime routine, minimizing exposure to blue light from screens before bedtime and creating a sleep-conducive environment in your bedroom. Many of your hormones are produced at night while you are in a deep sleep.” More shut-eye also regulates stress hormones and helps to repair the body’s cells and tissues.

Life is better when our bodies are happy, and change begins with small, inspired steps. Cabeca reminds us, “Create a life rhythm that works for you.”

Marlaina Donato is a visionary artist, composer, author of several books and long-time journalist for Natural Awakenings . Connect at BluefireStudio.art.

Editorial Calendar

Three-Month Planner

Identifying and Treating Lyme Disease

An Integrative and Functional Medicine Approach

by Jill Valerius, M.D., ABoIM, IFMCP, ATC

Lyme disease, a complex and often misdiagnosed illness, affects approximately 476,000 people annually in the United States. Found in all 50 states and every continent but Antarctica, it is transmitted primarily by the Ixodes tick, more commonly known as the deer tick or black-legged tick. If not promptly addressed, the ailment can lead to long-term health complications. Thanks to advancements in medicine, the identification and treatment of Lyme disease continues to evolve and improve.

Historical Context

The story of Lyme disease began in the 1970s with a community outbreak of facial palsy and arthritis in Lyme, Connecticut. An

explanation for this mysterious illness did not surface until the early 1980s, when Willy Burgdorfer, an investigator for the National Institutes of Health, discovered a bacterium in ticks from the area (Borrelia Burgdorferi), laying the foundation for modern testing and diagnostic methods.

Diagnosing a Complex Disease

There are several complicating factors that make a Lyme disease diagnosis difficult. The characteristic bullseye-shaped rash is present in less than half of cases and may disappear quickly. Early signs and symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle pain, headache, joint pain, fatigue and swollen lymph nodes are easily mistaken for other illnesses.

The utility of early lab testing is limited because the process takes several weeks and can lead to false negatives. This leaves physicians to rely on observable symptoms and rule out other possible causes. A doctor will also ask if a patient has been out in the woods or grassy areas where they might have been exposed to black-legged ticks.

Tom Moorcroft, DO, the founder of Origins of Health and an investigator of medical mysteries, refers to Lyme disease as “the new great imitator and instigator,” describing its ability to mimic various other diseases, often at the same time. For people experiencing persistent symptoms, comprehensive lab testing may be needed to distinguish between Lyme and other tick-borne and non-tickborne diseases.

Treatment Options

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), untreated Lyme disease can produce a wide range of symptoms, including fever, rash, facial paralysis and arthritis. While conventional antibiotics remain a cornerstone for early-stage treatment, emerging research increasingly

Erik Karits from pixabay/CanvaPro

recognizes and supports the role of natural and botanical medicine.

In a 2020 study published in Frontiers in Medicine, seven botanical agents were identified as promising treatments for Lyme disease, including black walnut, Japanese knotweed, sweet wormwood, cat’s claw and Chinese skullcap. Cryptolepis sanguinolenta extract caused a complete eradication of the B. Burgdorferi bacterium in their study. The scientists recommended additional research to determine dosages and extract combinations that might offer hope for those suffering long-term symptoms.

The integrative and functional medicine approach to treating Lyme disease is multifaceted and customized, taking into account an individual’s health history, environmental factors and unique physiological responses. The overarching goals are to target the infection, bolster the immune system, manage symptoms and promote overall well-being. According to Dr. Darin Ingels, a licensed doctor of naturopathic medicine and author of The Lyme Solution, “All other therapies, no matter what they are, probably aren’t going to be as effective until you’ve really taken care of your gut health and your mental and emotional being.”

Lifestyle interventions are critical in this holistic treatment. A diet rich in whole foods, clean proteins and minimal grains, dairy, sugar and processed foods can mitigate inflammation and aid recovery. Complementary practices such as regular exercise, sauna sessions, Epsom salt baths, sufficient sleep and stress management techniques play vital roles in healing and preventing long-term complications.

Prevention Tips

Prevention is integral in combating Lyme disease. Tick repellents and protective clothing can significantly reduce bites. After spending time in wooded or grassy areas, thoroughly check the skin for early tick detection and removal. Upon discovering a tick, remove it promptly and monitor the bite area for signs

of a rash or infection. If symptoms appear, quickly seek guidance from a healthcare professional with expertise in Lyme disease.

A healthy diet, regular exercise and sufficient sleep are essential for maintaining a robust immune system and can bolster the body’s defenses, potentially reducing the risk of developing chronic Lyme disease.

Staying Informed

• International Lyme and Associated Disease Society (ilads.org) is a global nonprofit that promotes research, education and policy associated with Lyme and associated diseases.

• LymeDisease.org offers support and information curated by patients.

• TickSpotters from the University of Rhode Island (Tinyurl.com/tickspot) provides tick identification information and science-based risk assessments.

• Local health departments can provide updated information and recommendations for specific areas.

Meeting Future Challenges

Lyme disease presents a significant global health challenge, necessitating a multifaceted and individualized approach to its management. Integrative and functional medicine offer an effective strategy, combining conventional medical treatments with lifestyle and natural therapies. This holistic approach empowers individuals to take an active role in their health journey, ensuring not just the treatment of Lyme disease, but also the promotion of long-term wellness and quality of life.

Jill Valerius is a dual-board-certified physician in family and integrative medicine with an additional certification in functional medicine. Learn more at NowHealthPalmer.com

Natural Births

A Look at Modern Midwifery

by Maya Whitman

Life’s most wondrous gifts are the babies that come into the world every day, but the clinical birth environment is not always an ideal choice for everyone. Modern midwifery, a safe alternative, honors its ancient roots by aiming to provide a comfortable and beautiful passage for both mommas and little ones. In countries like France, Sweden and Japan, midwives are involved in almost 75 percent of deliveries at birth centers, homes and hospitals. The practice is less popular in the U.S., with only 12 percent involving midwives in 2020.

“The birth experience became very medicalized at the turn of the last century out of necessity. However, midwives have been delivering babies for centuries in all types of settings. Birth is a natural process that does not necessarily need to take place within the confines of the hospital setting,” says Paul

Quinn, a certified nurse-midwife in Ridgewood, New Jersey, and author of several books, including Prenatal Possibilities: Recipes for a Healthy Pregnancy…and Beyond.

Prenatal and perinatal psychologist Susan Highsmith, in Tucson, Arizona, notes, “Care in birth centers and at home can be far more personal. For women who experience low-risk pregnancies, a natural, home birth or birth-center birth can be a satisfying and safe alternative to a hospital birth. There are a host of benefits for the baby that are not possible in hospital settings where protocols take precedence.”

One of the advantages of a natural birth is the mother-child bonding encouraged in a non-clinical setting. “Babies should not be placed in nurseries, but should be immediately placed on the mother’s body

and allowed to seek and find the breast,” Highsmith explains. “Being taken away from the mother, as is frequently done in hospitals, is anathema.”

Midwives and Doulas

Aside from facilitating the birth process, midwives can provide medical care, prescribe medications and order blood tests and imaging. Many are nurses and wellversed in any situation that might arise before, during and after labor.

Doulas focus on nonclinical care by providing physical and emotional comfort, keeping expectant mothers informed and facilitating communication with the midwives and obstetricians on the team. For Brooke Stenzler, a relationship coach in Bradenton, Florida, bringing a doula onto her birth team was an unexpected blessing. “It freed up my husband to be present in a different way, and the doula provided the tender, maternal care that I needed,” she says. “Prior to the birth, I met with my midwife for regular prenatal checkups. She came to my house a month or so prior to the expected birth date to make sure everything was set up properly for a home

birth. I also had a couple of meetings with my doula prior to the birth, so she could get clear on my goals and needs. She also provided a prenatal massage.”

Stenzler and her brothers were all home-birth babies, so when it came time to plan her own pregnancy, choosing to have a midwife and a doula was an effortless decision. Her own midwife was seasoned, thus earning her confidence. “She knew what signs to look for if there were a serious situation that might require transferring to a hospital,” she says. “I trusted that she would let me know if she felt that was necessary.”

Taking the Helm

Choosing to partner with a midwife and/or doula can be the first big step in a happy, healthy birth, but there are some things to consider. State laws differ as to what a midwife can and cannot do, and insurance coverage varies from company to company. Thorough research is recommended to avoid any last-minute surprises.

Quinn recommends beginning a search for the right person as early as possible. “Not all midwives or doulas practice the same. There needs to be a sense of trust, and a woman needs to choose someone who makes her feel safe, heard, respected and valued,” he advises. “It’s okay to ask focused questions and inquire about a midwife or doula’s education. Ask for references. Check the internet for reviews, both good and bad, and verify if licensure is applicable. It’s also a good idea to check for any disciplinary action from the state.”

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Bringing the next generation into the world is a hard job, one that demands support for body, mind and spirit. “Ask any questions that relieve fears, doubt or uncertainty beforehand. This is a mutually loving and, literally, life-enhancing relationship,” says Highsmith. “Birth is a sacred event, which deserves reverence.”

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Raising Puppies to Be Heroes

How to Foster Guide-Dog Candidates

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

Fostering puppies to become guide dogs or service animals can be a deeply meaningful endeavor. Beyond being loyal companions, these special pups profoundly impact the lives of people with disabilities by offering mobility and a newfound sense of freedom. They not only assist in navigation but also pave the way for social opportunities and contribute to the overall happiness and well-being of their owners.

In a 2019 study published in the journal Animals, Austrian researchers compared the quality of life and annual medical costs of 36 blind individuals with and without a guide dog by means of a standardized questionnaire. Although no significant differences in quality of life were noted, the guide dog owners reported lower medical

costs and expressed a firm belief that their canine companions facilitated social contacts and had a positive impact on their independence and health.

Critical Role of Foster Families

Breeds known for their intelligence and temperament, such as Labradors, golden retrievers and German shepherds, are preferred choices. Their guide-dog journey begins just days after they are born, when foster families take them in and expose them to new experiences, sounds and surfaces, along with early tutelage in body handling, kennel training and wearing a puppy jacket.

At 8 weeks old, the pups begin to learn good manners and socialization skills. This period is pivotal in preparing them for formal

service-dog training. Nearly half of the canines bred to become guide dogs fail before the end of their training because they are skittish and fearful. In a 2021 study, also published in Animals, French researchers sought to understand the nature and causes of such fears by observing and measuring stress biomarkers of 5-month-old guidedog candidates as they were exposed to unfamiliar people, visual and sound stimuli, and physical handling.

The scientists concluded that the more time a puppy spent alone, the more likely it was to be afraid, underscoring the importance of early socialization and habituation to boost confidence and adaptability by exposing them to different people, animals and environments. The researchers characterized the early development period of puppies as “a decisive phase influencing their temperament in adulthood,” thereby enhancing their chances of success as guide dogs.

Fostering Tips

Caring for a guide-dog candidate during its formative first months can make or break the animal’s future performance. Here are a few tips for foster parents.

• Offer positive reinforcement. Celebrate small wins, maintain a positive attitude and apply consistent commands and routines when training a guide dog. This strategy not only builds a solid foundation but also speeds up the learning process and minimizes stress for both trainers and puppies.

• Provide rewards and discipline. Treats, praise and playtime encourage puppies to repeat desired behaviors. Simultaneously, it is important to set boundaries and enforce rules to guide their behavior, ensuring they grow into well-behaved guide dogs.

• Ensure their health. Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations and a balanced diet are crucial to keeping the puppy healthy and ready for training. A physically fit pooch is more capable of focusing and learning during training sessions.

FamVeld from Getty Images/CanvaPro

• Learn to let go. Recognize that saying goodbye is part of the process when the puppy is ready to move on to specialized training or to be paired with their person. Focus on the incredible impact the dog will have on someone’s life.

• Communicate with the experts. Always seek support and advice from the training organization and document the puppy’s progress. This will help the foster family avoid missteps or make early corrections in caretaking and training. Future trainers or handlers will also benefit from the documentation.

• Stay informed. Keep up to date on new training techniques and trends in the field of service animals to enhance the fostering experience.

Training Programs and Organizations

After leaving their foster families, usually around the age of 12 to 18 months, guide-dog

candidates will enter a formal training program, such as the one offered by the nonprofit Guide Dogs for the Blind, the largest school of its kind in North America, with campuses in California, Oregon and Canada. Here, the young canines learn specialized skills needed to assist their future owners—a process that takes at least another year. All of the training and support is provided free of charge, made possible by donors and volunteers.

To learn more, visit Guide Dogs for the Blind (GuideDogs.com), Seeing Eye Dogs (SeeingEye.org) and Guiding Eyes for the Blind (GuidingEyes.org). There are numerous ways to help these organizations such as volunteering time, donating money, fostering puppies or assisting in awareness campaigns.

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

We Have a Choice

In times like today, when every aspect of society seems to be in chaos, one easy response is to escape—through

drugs, alcohol, comfort food, non-stop entertainment or any other convenient mind-numbing practice Many are defaulting to this “cure” for their discomfort. Others, feeling insecure, angry, and demanding change, agitate to take society back to what they remember as the “good old days.” They may not be clear about what exactly made the past better, but are more than willing to listen to people who place the blame for current troubles anywhere but where it actually belongs: on economic inequality and injustice.

A Major Transition

Most of us forget that another choice is possible. We can create a future completely di erent from the present or the past—one that expresses our most deeply felt desires to live together in peace, happiness, and prosperity. In fact, this choice is being reinforced, or perhaps stimulated, by the planetary energies now at play We are currently in the midst of a major transition between two ages moving from the Age of Pisces into the Age of Aquarius, and such transitions tend to create chaos as the energies of the two constellations involved compete with each other The energies of Pisces support individuality and devotion to separate religions or causes, while Aquarian energies promote cooperation, group e orts, synthesis, and brotherhood. As our planet moves closer to Aquarius, the

polarization and divisions among people and ideas will diminish, and we will find more common ground.

So, now is the time to take advantage of the energies and to put forth visions of a world that would benefit all people—not just a few. In mundane terms, we need to expand the “Overton window”—the range of ideas that voters find acceptable—to include ideas that are not currently in the public eye—ideas that might at first be considered idealistic or even impossible to attain. For politicians to support policies outside of the window would be political suicide, as they would not be seen as legitimate options by society. Therefore, since it’s politicians who will be deciding the policies that will determine our future, we need to voice our desires for the kind of world we want, to make sure they are among the available options in the public discourse

The Key: A Unified Vision of Sharing and Justice

How do we bring our ideas forward?

The key is to have a unified vision, to voice it in large numbers, and to do so powerfully. Fortunately, we don’t have to do this alone We have help in the form of the great spiritual teacher—Maitreya by name who is here to accompany our transition into the Aquarian age, and we will see him soon. He has said that peace can be established and our societal ills transformed by simply sharing planetary resources more equitably, creating justice in every societal institution, and restoring and

preserving our environment. We can count on him to galvanize people of goodwill to champion these priorities when he appears publicly, but we can start now.

We can talk about the future we want to our friends and relatives, call and write the president and our Congressional representatives on a regular basis about it, and spread the ideas through our social media outlets. There is power in numbers, and the 99% of us non-wealthy are by definition the majority We just need to project our vision of sharing and justice powerfully in as unified a way as possible everywhere, and together we can create a future that works for everyone

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Calendar of Events

Wednesday,

May 1

Market on the Farm Opening Day – 3-6pm. Hosted by Harmony Acres Dairy. Join us for our third season of weekly markets on the farm. Every Wednesday from May 1st through October 30th. Harmony Acres Dairy, 355 Perryopolis Rd, Belle Vernon. HarmonyAcresDairy.com.

Grow Pittsburgh’s Garden Resource Center – 3-7pm Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays. 9am-3pm Saturdays. Accepting members until the end of June. The Garden Resource Center is a tool-lending library and garden materials depot. We reduce barriers to growing food. Sliding-scale annual membership fee. Access to free tool rentals and purchase of bulk materials like compost, mulch, soil amendments. Info at GrowPittsburgh.org/GRC.

Speakers Series with Dr. Jalonne White-Newsome – 6-8:30pm. Hosted by Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. An event by Women for a Healthy Environment, this series focuses on the critical issue of environmental justice in the context of climate change. White House Senior Director for Environmental Justice Dr White-Newsome will discuss the disproportionate impact on low-income communities and explore Justice40 initiatives in the Greater Pittsburgh area. Tickets $35 at Eventbrite.com/E/Speaker-Series-JalonneWhite-Newsome-White-Houses-ENV-Justice-Officer-Tickets-852419699267. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, 700 Frank Curto Dr. 412-404-2872.

Outdoor Yoga at St. Clair Park – 7-8pm. Wednesdays thru 31 July. Hosted by Red Brick Yoga at St. Clair Park in downtown Greensburg. $15/drop-ins or $140 for 3 months (May thru July park classes only). Tickets at WellnessLiving.com/Schedule/Red_Brick_Yoga_. St. Clair Park, 198 Kaylor Way, Greensuburg. Info at RedBrickYoga.com.

Saturday,

May 4

Carpenters Pittsburgh Training Center

Open House/Expo – 8am-3:30pm. Hosted by Carpenters Pittsburgh Training Center. The apprenticeship program offers a four-year tuition free program. Craft Skills demonstrations, vendor displays, food and prizes. 629 Ridge Rd. Info at KMLTF.org. 412-262-1830.

AARP 50+ Walking Series: Wildflowers of Barking Slopes – 9-10:30am. Hosted by Allegheny Land Trust and AARP. Hike over moderate terrain and learn about local flora and fauna. $Free, no walk-ins. Register at AlleghenyLandTrust.NetworkForGood. com/events/66793-50-Walking-Series-WithAARP-Wildflowers-Of-Barking-Slopes. 37 Barking Rd, New Kensington. Info@AlleghenyLandTrust.org.

Pittsburgh VegFair – 11am-5pm. Hosted by Pittsburgh VegFest. Join us for our first ever VegFair! A spring party to celebrate 10 years of VegFest. Food trucks, 24,000 square feet of indoor vendors, and activities. Large free parking lot on Thomas BLVD. Free to attend at Rockwell Park, 201 N Braddock Ave. Info at PittsburghVegFest.org.

Abrosia Wellness Studio Grand Opening

– Noon-6pm. Hosted by Ambrosia Wellness Studio. Bookings, Giveaways, Refreshments and more! We offer IV vitamin therapies in support of a healthy immune system, energy boots, detoxification, and ageing prevention. Our safe and unique therapies consist of vitamins, antioxidants, and electrolytes. Come see us at 1066 Suncrest Towncenter, Suite 18, Morgantown, WV. Ambrosia-Wellness.com.

The Akashic Files: Your Personal Gateway to Self-Mastery and Healing – 1-3pm. Hosted by Red Brick Yoga and Psychic Medium Carole Obley. Learn to recognize self-limiting thoughts and patterns that negatively affect our lives. A discussion of the Akashic Records – The Book of Life as described by American psychic Edgar Cayce. Tickets $45 at WellnessLiving.com/RS/Event/Red_Brick_Yoga. 600 Blank School Rd, Suite 4, Greensburg. Info at RedBrickYoga.com.

Sunday, May 5

Cinco de Mayo Vegan Mexican Fusion Brunch Party – 10am-2pm. Hosted by Pittsburgh Vegan Expo and Amethyst Arts LLC. $Free admission: buy your brunch, shop at vendor booths, hear Mexican music. Antonio’s Pizzeria, 758 Brookline Blvd. 412-388-1000.

Monday, May 6

Nature as Nurture Forest Walk – 6-7:30pm. Hosted by West Virginia Botanic Garden. Experience Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) and other ecotherapy techniques that will leave you refreshed and grounded. We’ll identify plants along the way! Members $5, Non-members $15. Tickets at WVBG.org/ Programs/Events. West Virginia Botanic Garden, Tibbs Run Reservoir, Morgantown, WV. Information at WVBG.org.

Spring Field Trip: Beginner’s Bird Walk at Friendship Hill – 7:30-9am. Hosted by Mountaineer Audubon at Friendship Hill National Historic Site. $Free event. Meet at the trailhead just inside the park entrance. Friendship Hill National Historic Site, 223 New Geneva Rd, Point Marion. Info MountaineerAudubon.org.

Wednesday, May 8

History, Mystery, & Migration – 9-11am. Hosted by Allegheny Land Trust and Audubon Society of Western PA. Birding walk around Dead Man’s Hollow during peak spring bird migration while sharing historical stories and mysteries of the hollow. Tickets $5 at AlleghenyLandTrust.NetworkForGood.com/ Events/66858-History-Mystery-And-Migration. Dead Man’s Hollow, 1906 Donner St, McKeesport. Info@AlleghenyLandTrust.org.

Saturday, May 11

Constance Ranson Native Plant Sale – 9amNoon. Hosted by Ohiopyle State Park. Annual perennials, trees, and shrubs sale sponsored by Southern Laurel Highlands Plant and Pest Management Partnership. $7-$40 range. Ohiopyle State Park, 950 Sugarloaf Road, Ohiopyle. 724-329-8591.

OpenStreetsPGH-WERQ Class – 11:30am12:15pm. Hosted by New Moves with Nicole. This is the first OpenStreetsPGH event of the year. A free community event that opens miles of city streets for people to walk, bike, run, and explore places otherwise used by vehicles. Family friendly, all ages, FREE public event at Market Square. 24 Market Square. Info at OpenStreetsPGH.org.

Ask a Psychic Event – Noon-2pm. Hosted by Visions Reiki and Soul Spa. Featuring Pittsburgh medium Rev Marjorie Rivera. She channels answers from loved ones, guides y our highest self, and answers your burning questions. Tickets $45 at Eventbrite. Visions Reiki and Soul Spa, 206 Alexander Ave, Strabane. 724-745-1785.

Sunday, May 12

Mother’s Day DIY Living Wreaths with Rust & Moss – Noon-3pm. Hosted by East End Food Co-op. Create a unique and personalized wreath using fresh greenery and living flowers. $20/members, $25/non-members at Eventbrite.com/E/Mothers-DayDIY-Living-Wreaths-With-Rust-Moss-Tickets-852416008227. East End Food Co-op, 7516 Meade St. 412-242-3598.

Monday, May 13

6 Week Prenatal Yoga Series – 7-8pm. Hosted by Nourish and Move. Designed to support expectant mothers through each stage of pregnancy. Connect with other expectant mothers to build community, cultivate mindfulness, and prepare for childbirth. Tickets $120 WellnessLiving.com/rs/Event/ Nourish_And_Move?k_Class=659540. 300 Beverly Rd. Info at NourishAndMovePGH.com.

Tuesday, May 14

Native Bees of PA – 6-7pm. Hosted by Allegheny Land Trust. From a series of workshops with New Sun Rising on environmentally friendly lifestyle through home sustainability practices. Focus on the ecology, ID and importance of native bees, and how to attract them to your garden. $10 at AlleghenyLandTrust.NetworkForGood.com/Events/67578-Native-Bees-ofPA. Millvale Food + Energy Hub, 112 Sherman St, Millvale. Info@AlleghenyLandTrust.org.

Friday, May 17

Morgantown Birding Cup 2024 – 24 Hour Period 6pm Fri through 6pm Sat, May 18. Hosted by Mountaineer Audubon and the Avian Conservation Center of Appalachia. Registrants also participate in the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Global Citizen-Science Initiative. Registration $Free, donations appreciated. Join the At-Home category or the At-Large category of this friendly competition and awareness raising event. Details at ACCAWV.org.

Saturday, May 18

Pendulum Dowsing: An Introduction to Using a Pendulum. 10am-Noon. Hosted by Visions Reiki and Soul Spa. Use the pendulum to measure your vibrational frequency, help

you find lost objects, or make healthy choices. Bring your own pendulum or purchase one from our Salt of The Earth gift shop! $40 at Eventbrite. Visions Reiki and Soul Spa, 206 Alexander Ave, Strabane. 724-745-1785.

An Evening of Cheese: Intro to Cheese Pairings – 7-9pm. Hosted by Chantal’s Cheese Shop. A laid-back lesson in cheese, featuring 5 essential cheeses paired with specialty accompaniments. Discuss cheese, history, elements of pairing. BYOB. Attendees get 10% store discount.

Sunday, May 19

Mommy & Me Yoga – 1-2pm. Hosted by Nourish and Move. A fun way to expose kids to yoga and foster quality time with mom or dad. Ages 3-6 (older kids welcome). Tickets $30 (+$5/additional child) at WellnessLiving.com/ Schedule/Nouris_And_Move. 300 Beverly Rd. Info at NourishAndMovePGH.com.

Wednesday, May 22

Science Stroll: Wild Medicinal & Edible Plants –10-11:30am. Hosted by Allegheny Land Trust. Learn to make a meal of what grows in your backyard or local area. Tickets $5 at AlleghenyLandTrust. NetworkForGood.com/Events/65851-ScienceStroll-Wild-Medician-And-Edible-Plants. Audubon Greenway, 160 Magee Rd, Sewickley. Info@ AlleghenyLandTrust.org.

Thursday, May 23

Harvesting Rainwater 101 – 6-7pm. Hosted by Allegheny Land Trust. From a series of workshops with New Sun Rising on environmentally friendly lifestyle through home sustainability practices. Focus rain barrels, rain chains, and rain gardens at the Millvale Food + Energy Hub. Tickets $10 at AlleghenyLandTrust.NetworkForGood.com/ events/67579-harvesting-rainwater-101.Millevale Food + Energy Hub, 112 Sherman St, Millvale. Info@AlleghenyLandTrust.org.

Friday, May 24

AARP 50+ Walking Series: General Nature Hike at Audubon Greenway – 9-10:30am. Hosted by Allegheny Land Trust and AARP. Hike over moderate terrain and learn about local flora and fauna. $Free, no walk-ins. Register at AlleghenyLandTrust.NetworkForGood. com/events/66794-50-Walking-Series-WithAARP-General-Nature-Hike-At-AudubonGreenway. 160 Magee Rd, Sewickley Info@ AlleghenyLandTrust.org.

Saturday, May 25

Vegan Memorial Day Party at Ruckus Coffee Gallery – 10am-3pm. Hosted by Pittsburgh Vegan Expo. Live music, dance performances, games, activities, vendors. $Free admission, pay for your meals. Rukus Coffee Gallery, 1707 Babcock Blvd. Info at RuckusCafe.com.

Sunday, May 26

Free Yoga + Private Shopping @ Fabletics South Hills Village – 9:30-11am. Hosted by Nourish and Move. Beginner-friendly class to get your blood pumping. Register for directions and info at WellnessLiving.com/rs/Event/

Nourish_And_Move?k_Class=659057. South Hills Village Mall, 301 S Hills Village, Bethel Park. Info at NourishAndMovePGH.com.

Plan Ahead

Save the Date October 2024

(Exact dates to be announced)

Earn Your Holistic Reflexology Certification (300 Hour) – Hosted by the Brauer Institute for Holistic Medicine. Enroll now for the October 2024 cohort. Grow your confidence as a wellness provider; make a positive impact on your clients’ lives. Serving Greater Pittsburgh, Morgantown, Wheeling, and Youngstown. 412-925-0812. Info at BrauerInstitute.com.

Ongoing Events

Sunday

Hatha/Tantra Yoga with Lesley Eckenrode –11am-12:15pm. Hosted by Visions Reiki and Soul Spa. Advanced class with challenging pace for those with prior yoga experience. $15. Register at VisionsReikiAndSoulSpa.com/yoga.

Art as Therapy – 1-3pm. 2nd and 4th Sunday. Hosted by Atithi Studios. Unlock the therapeutic potential of artmaking. All disciplines and levels. Pay what you can to keep this program going. Registration required: AtithStudios.com/programs.  412-301-5374.

The Writer’s Club – 1-3pm. 1st and 3rd Sunday. Hosted by Atithi Studios. All experience levels. Explore writing through discussions, feedback circles, prompts, and creative exercises. Pay what you can to keep this program going. Registration: AtithStudios.com/programs.

Community Acupuncture Circle – 2-4pm. 3rd Sun. Hosted by Sterling Yoga. $40/half hour. Sterling Yoga, 393 Vanadium Rd Suite 201. SterlingYoga.com.

Sound Healing in the Salt Cave with Patrick Keddie – 4-5pm. 1st Sundays. Hosted by Sterling Yoga. $25. Sterling Yoga, 393 Vanadium Rd Suite 201. SterlingYoga.com.

Sunday’s Restorative Rejuvenation –5-6:30pm. 3rd Sun. Hosted by Morgantown Power Yoga. All levels welcome. Learn to use breath, props, and focused awareness to decrease stress and anxiety in the body and the mind. Compliment your power yoga practice with restorative rejuvenation. $25. 235 Spruce St, Morgantown, WV. Tickets: Clients.MindBodyOnline.com.

The Poetry Atelier – 6-8pm. 1st Sunday. Hosted by The Space Upstairs. A series of sharing writings and writing processes, with writers invited to read their work, workshop their shared submissions, and experiment together in invented group exercises. Open and inclusive respectful forum. Drop-ins welcome. $5 suggested donation. 214 N Lexington Ave. 412-225-9269.

Monday

Mindful Mondays Youth Yoga – 5:456:30pm. Hosted by The Space GBG. Ages 8-15. $15. Registration and info at Sites. Google.com/TheAlignedMindStudio.com/

The-Aligned-Mind-Studio/Home. The Space GBG, 203 Old State Route 30, Greensburg. 724-672-3294.

Reiki Share at Visions Reiki and Soul Spa – 8:30-9:30am. 4th Mon. Free. Hosted by Visions Reiki and Soul Spa. Donations accepted. Experience healing, high vibrations, joy and fellowship of Reiki gatherings. Register at VisionsReikiAndSoulSpa.com/event/ReikiShare-At-Visions-Reiki-And-Soul-Spa-24. Visions Reiki and Soul Spa, 206 Alexander Ave, Strabane.

1 Hood Power Hour – 7-8pm. A virtual public affairs forum hosted by 1 Hood Power to discuss all things political in SWPA and beyond. Featuring elected officials, policymakers and thought leaders. 617-517-7600. Facebook. com/1HoodPower.

Tuesday

Chair Stretch I Yoga – 11-11:45am. Hosted by Sterling Yoga and Wellness Center. Online or in person. $12 at SterlingYoga.PunchPass.com/ Classes. Also offering meditation, mindfulness, massage, reflexology, reiki, active salt room, infrared light and color therapy. Sterling Yoga, at the Davis Professional Building, 393 Vanadium Rd Suite 201 & 202. SterlingYoga.com.

Hatha / Tantra Yoga with Lesley Eckenrode – 11am-12:15pm. Hosted by Visions Reiki and Soul Spa. Introductory class with focus on learning poses, correct alignment and linking breath with the asanas. $15. Register at VisionsReikiAndSoulSpa.com/yoga/.

Exercise for Parkinson’s – 1:30-2:30pm. Online or in studio. Hosted by Sterling Yoga and Wellness Center. $12 at SterlingYoga. PunchPass.com/Classes. Also offering meditation, mindfulness, massage, reflexology, reiki, active salt room, infrared light and color therapy. Sterling Yoga, at the Davis Professional Building, 393 Vanadium Rd Suite 201 & 202. SterlingYoga.com.

Guided Meditation and Energy Healing in the Salt Cave – 6-7pm. Hosted by Salt of the Earth. Recline in an anti-gravity chair amidst soft music, trickling water, and detoxifying Himalayan salt air during guided meditation to surrender stress and worries. Tickets $55 at Clients.MindBodyOnline.com/Classic/WS. 504 Valley Brook Rd, McMurray. 724-260-0472.

Yoga Level 2/3 – 6-7:15pm. Online or in studio. Hosted by Sterling Yoga and Wellness Center. $18 at SterlingYoga.PunchPass.com/Classes. Also offering meditation, mindfulness, massage, reflexology, reiki, active salt room, infrared light and color therapy. Sterling Yoga, at the Davis Professional Building, 393 Vanadium Rd Suite 201 & 202. SterlingYoga.com.

Flute Circle Gathering – 7-8pm. Last Tuesday of the month. Hosted by Rooted in Sound. Join fellow music enthusiasts in a celebration of harmony and community, whether you’re a seasoned flutist or a curious beginner, we’ll create a unique symphony of connection. Tickets $10 at RootedInSound.com. Rooted in Sound, 209 Commercial Ave, Aspinwall. 412-609-8999.

Wednesday

Market on the Farm – 3-6pm. Join us for our third season of weekly markets on the farm. Every Wednesday from May 1st through Octo-

ber 30th. Harmony Acres Dairy, 355 Perryopolis Rd, Belle Vernon. HarmonyAcresDairy.com

THRIVE Carmichaels Community Garden

Project Meeting – 6-7pm. 2nd Wed. Hosted by Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern PA. Attend in person or via Zoom. Fellowship Hall, 101 W South St, Carmichaels. Info 724-223-5477.

Gentle Yoga in the Salt Cave with Erin – 6:307:15pm. 3rd Wed. Hosted by Sterling Yoga. $25. Sterling Yoga, at the Davis Professional Building, 393 Vanadium Rd Suite 201 & 202. SterlingYoga.com.

Baby Loss Support Group – 6:30-7:30pm. 3rd Wed. Hosted by Pittsburgh Bereavement Doulas for people who have experienced miscarriage, stillbirth, medical termination, or death of a baby. RSVP to this free event. Donations welcome. EventBrite.com/e/BabyLoss-Support-Group-Tickets-709518939247. The Space GBG, 203 Old State Route 30, Greensburg. 724-672-3294.

Reiki Share at Visions Reiki and Soul Spa – 6:30-8:30pm. 2nd Wed. Free. Hosted by Visions Reiki and Soul Spa. Donations accepted. Experience healing, high vibrations, joy and fellowship. Register at VisionsReikiAndSoulSpa.com/event/Reiki-Share-At-Visions-ReikiAnd-Soul-Spa-24. Visions Reiki and Soul Spa, 206 Alexander Ave, Strabane.

Outdoor Yoga at St. Clair Park – 7-8pm. Wednesdays thru 31 July. Hosted by Red Brick Yoga at St. Clair Park in downtown Greensburg. $15/drop-ins or $140 for 3 months (May thru July park classes only). Tickets at WellnessLiving.com/Schedule/Red_Brick_Yoga_. St. Clair Park, 198 Kaylor Way, Greensuburg. Info at RedBrickYoga.com.

Thursday

Yoga Classes – 9:30-10:30am. 1st & 2nd Thurs. Hosted by Spruce Street United Methodist Church. All ages and abilities with variations to accommodate health and movement issues, with students sitting or standing next to a chair. Emphasis on meditative practices. Wear comfortable clothing. 386 Spruce St, Morgantown, W Virginia. 304-292-3359.

Sound Bath Thursdays – 7:30-8:30pm. Hosted by Rooted in Sound at Green Heiress. One of the world’s oldest wellness practices, sound healing creates space for a deep meditative state using gongs and Himalayan singing bowls to send vibrations throughout your body. Registration required, $30 at RootedInSound.com/Event-Calendar. Green Heiress, 209 Commercial Ave.

Intermission: The Artful Happy Hour –6-9pm. Third Thurs. Hosted by August Wilson African American Cultural Center. Bring your favorite co-worker and enjoy live music, crafted cocktails and specialty hors d’ oeuvres. Unwind while you tour the galleries and chill on the patio. 980 Liberty Ave. 412-339-1011. Y12SR Relapse Prevention Group – 8:159:30pm. In person and online, hosted by Yoga Recovery Pittsburgh. Recovery services for those seeking holistic relief from addiction. Join Yoga for 12-Step Recovery on Thursdays at Yoga Factory Pittsburgh (space limited) and online. Complete member form, sign waiver,

and register for session at YogaRecoveryPGH. com. $Donation requested. Yoga Recovery Pittsburgh, 3418 Penn Ave.

Friday

First Friday Walk/Hike – 10-11:30am. First Fri. Hosted by Allegheny Land Trust at various interesting parks and green areas around greater Pittsburgh. For info on location, focus, and cost go to AlleghenyLandTrust.networkforgood.com/events. 412-741-2750.

First Friday Family Walk – 10am-Noon. First Fri. Hosted by West Virginia Botanic Garden. Enjoy a short story followed by a walk around the Garden, conclude with a simple craft. Trail accommodates off road strollers. Members/ free, $15/donation per family suggested. Preregistration required: wvbg.org or Forms. donorsnap.com/form.

Friday 101 – Carnegie Science Center Fab Lab Public Workshops – 1-2pm. Hosted by BNY Mellon Fab Lab Carnegie Science Center. Take a crash course in maker technology – learn the basics of 3D printing, laser cutting, vinyl cutting, and more. $30/nonmembers, $25/ members. One Allegheny Ave. 412-237-3400. Register: CarnegieScienceCenter.org.

Reiki Guided Meditation at Salt of the Earth

– 4-5pm, 1st Fri. Hosted in the Himalayan salt cave at Salt of the Earth. Balance your energy and raise your vibe in guided meditation and reiki healing with Wendy Bourne. Tickets $55 at Clients.MindBodyOnline.com. Salt of the Earth, 504 Valley Brooke Rd, McMurray. 724-260-0472.

Lit Fridays – 6pm on the last Friday of each month via Facebook Live and Zoom. Hosted by the August Wilson African American Cultural Center (AWAACC), Lit Fridays is a literary-focused, virtual salon featuring conversations and guest performances moderated by AWAACC Literacy Curator Jessica Lanay. Find info for each session at AWAACC.org/ Series/Lit-Fridays. AWAACC, 980 Liberty Ave. 412-339-1011.

Kitty Bingo – 7:30-9pm. Hosted by Kitty Queen Cat Rescue. All proceeds support the cat shelter. Tickets $25 at Eventbrite. com/e/706706436977. Kitty Queen Cat Rescue, 4552 McKnight Rd Suite 400. KittyQueenCatRescue@gmail.com.

Saturday

Morgantown Farmers Market – 8:30-Noon. Through Nov 16th. Fresh, local food and farm

products. 400 Spruce St, Morgantown, WV. Info at MorgantownFarmersMarket.org.

Sound Bath Saturdays – 11am-Noon. Hosted by Rooted in Sound at Green Heiress. One of the world’s oldest wellness practices, sound healing creates space for a deep meditative state using gongs and Himalayan singing bowls to send vibrations throughout your body. Registration required, $35 at RootedInSound.com/Event-Calendar. Green Heiress, 209 Commercial Ave.

All-Levels Vinyasa Flow with Sarah – 1011am. Hosted by Gritstone Climbing and Fitness. Get your Zen on and bliss out with this gentle yet challenging flow. Member/ nonmember pricing and packages available. Tickets at ClimbGritstone.com. 1901 Eljadid St, Morgantown, WV.

3D Printer Workshop – Noon-2pm. Hosted by Prototype PGH. Learn to use the Elegoo UV Photocuring 3D resin printer. $10 at Eventbrite. 460 Melwood Ave, Oakland. Info: PrototypePGH.com.

Prototype PGH – Monthly Open House –Noon-2pm Second Sat. Meet with members of our team to ask questions about Prototype and the events, workshops and services offered. Donations appreciated to cover free events and workshops. 460 Melwood Ave #208. RSVP on our Facebook page.

Second Saturdays at the Space Upstairs – 8-11:45pm. Hosted by The Space Upstairs. Begun in 2007, Second Saturdays are the signature jazz happenings at the Space Upstairs. Lightbulbs and couches, coffee tables and deconstructed pianos, vivid splashes of light and projection. Poetry scribbled on the walls. Improvisational postmodern jazz dance by the Pillow Project. Modern speakeasy magic and spontaneous art. A sober event serving several house-infused waters, specialty iced coffees and seasonal drinks for donation at the Space Bar. $15 at the door. 214 N Lexington Ave. 412-225-9269.

Classifieds

Fee for classifieds is a minimum charge of $20 for the first 20 words and $1 for each additional word. To place an ad, email Publisher@naturalawakeningsswpa.com.

Opportunities

ADVERTISING SALES – Natural Awakenings magazine is looking for experienced advertising salespeople covering the Greater Pittsburgh area, SW Pennsylvania and Morgantown WV to help others grow their natural health & wellness and sustainable living or green businesses. Commission-based. Full- or part-time. Paying 25% commission. Unlimited potential income. Be a part of something magical! Send resume to Michelle: Publisher@ NaturalAwakeningsSWPA.com.

Services

READING POETRY RELAXES – Inquire at: wewuvpoetry@hotmail.com or P.O. Box 4725, Pittsburgh, PA 15206-0725.

Connecting you to the leaders in natural health care and green living in our Pittsburgh community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Publisher@naturalawakeningsswpa.com to request our media kit.

Brain Wellness

CERESET PITTSBURGH EAST

Ginna Bartlett,MA and Ginny Keteles, PTA 3122 Carson Ave, Murrysville ginna@pittsburgheast.cereset.com ginny@pittsburgheast.cereset.com

724-519-7371

Cereset can help your brain free itself, enabling you to achieve higher levels of well-being and balance throughout your life. Let us help your brain help you sleep more and release anxiety, depression, stress and more. See ad, page 10.

Chiropractic

PANTHER FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE AND CHIROPRACTIC

Dr Danielle Marra, DC Murrysville • Greensburg

724-387-1014 • PittsburghHealthPro.com

Dr. Danielle Marra has nearly 20 years’ experience helping patients regain their health through conservative and holistic approaches utilizing functional medicine, chiropractic, diet modifications, and nutritional support. The practice provides advanced lab testing, allergy relief, spinal decompression, CDL physicals, massage therapy, thermography and more. Their philosophy is treating the root of your symptoms, naturally. See ad, page 18.

Functional Health Pharmacy

SUSANMERENSTEIN,BSPHARM,RPH, HOLISTIC CLINICAL PHARMACIST

4227A Murray Ave, Pittsburgh 412-421-4996 • LabNaturals.com

VitalHealthPharmacist.com

Founded by Holistic Clinical Pharmacist Susan Merenstein, LabNaturals offers an anti-aging line of skincare products that are safe, non-toxic and affordable. The company also carries a line of people- and pet-friendly CBD products and offers Vital Health consultation services on functional health and hormone balance.

Functional Medicine

PANTHER FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE AND CHIROPRACTIC

Dr. Danielle Mara, DC Murrysville • Greensburg

724-387-1014

• PittsburghHealthPro.com

Dr. Danielle Mara has nearly 20 years’ experience helping patients regain their health through conservative and holistic approaches utilizing functional medicine, chiropractic, diet modifications and nutritional support. Plus advanced lab testing, allergy relief, spinal decompression, CDL physicals, massage therapy, thermography and more. Their philosophy is treating the root of your symptoms, naturally. See ad, page 18.

Health Food

THE KEFIR CHICKS

Connellsville, PA TheKefirChicks.com

TheKefirChicks@gmail.com Facebook.com/TheKefirChicks

Herbs

Kathy and Haley, The Kefir Chicks, are two chicks on a mission to bring awareness to everyone about whole foods and gut health through whole, probiotic-packed food medicine –water kefir. See ad, page 3.

OLD THYME HERB SHOP, LLC

Lisa Cunningham

Old-Fashioned Family Herbalist

308 Liberty St, Perryopolis, PA 724-736-2400

Nothing fancy here; just hundreds of organic bulk medicinal herbs at your beck and call. Heal yourself ~ help others. In service and gratitude always. No Facebook, no website, no social media. Not enough thyme! Just you and I and your blessed healing herbs.

Holistic Dentistry NUTRADENTIST

Dr. Mark Buzzatto

2555 Washington Rd, Ste 620 Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412-831-9700 • nutradentist.com

Dr. Mark Buzzatto is a biological dentist who takes a holistic approach to your health. The use of whole food nutrition, biocompatible materials, essential oils, chromotherapy, sound, and spa services create a warm and relaxing environment, and comprehensive care for your family. See ad, page 15.

Holistic Health Apothecary

LABNATURALS, INC.

Susan Merenstein, Pharmacist/Owner 4227-A Murray Ave, Pittsburgh 412-586-4678 • LabNaturals.com

LabNaturals, Inc. is a Holistic Health Apothecary and sister business to Murray Avenue Apothecary. Hormone testing and balancing, CBD, absorbable Acetyl Glutathione and non-toxic skincare are offered at LabNaturals, Inc. We offer one-on-one private consultations.

Homeopathy

MELANIE KRNETA

DIP HOM. ACH, Reiki Master 1252 Liberty St, Franklin, PA • 814-428-9895

Facebook: Melanie Krneta Homoeopathy Plus

Classical homoeopathic consultations providing individualized care for the entire family. Migraines, hormonal imbalances, PTSD, grief, arthritis, digestive imbalance. Reiki sessions are beneficial for relaxation and pain management. Other services provided are far infrared sauna with medical grade color therapy and Himalayan salt and ear candling.

Medical Cannabis

MEDMJ HEALTH

Dr. Irina Staicu, DO 267-337-8944 • office@medmjhealth.com

Telehealth medical cannabis evaluations and personalized recommendations regarding product choice with a state-approved physician. Chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, cancer, glaucoma, inflammatory bowel conditions, HIV, autism, seizures, multiple sclerosis, etc. An alternative option for many sources of medical ailments and bodily imbalances. See ad, page 4.

Natural Beauty Products

NAPTURAL BEAUTY SUPPLY

724-307-8487

NapturalBeautySupply.com

Naptural Beauty Supply was created to end the stigma around natural hair by empowering men and women to love themselves naturally. We do this by instilling confidence in our community and increasing convenience by having the tools and services in one place, such as hair and body butters, beard care and apparel. We are beauty supply with naturals in mind!

Naturopathic Medicine

DR. ARETI, LLC

Dr. Areti Fitsioris

421 Cochran Rd, Pittsburgh 412-419-1537 (call/text) Facebook.com/Dr.Areti

Dr. Areti is a board-certified naturopathic physician who implements manual therapy, lifestyle medicine, nutritional analysis, and non-invasive methods to address functional and structural imbalances – services are 100% grounded in evidence-based science. She goes the extra mile to identify and address root causes of conditions and to provide ongoing support.

Organic Stylist

ORGANIC INSPIRED WITH ZOE

Zoe Morris-Almasi, Organic Stylist

Now available at Creative Hair Solutions 2853 Oxford Blvd, #101, Allison Park, 151012 412-492-1688

Everyone deserves a healthier option for their haircare and salon services. Organic hair care gives you the option to maintain a healthy lifestyle and look your best. More than 10 years of experience and passion for the industry. See ad, page 15.

Reflexology

HOLISTIC REFLEXOLOGY CERTIFICATION

PITTSBURGH

The Brauer Institute for Holistic Medicine

Dorit Brauer, Founder and Owner Carnegie, PA • 412-925-0812

Learn and achieve the highest level of knowledge in Holistic Reflexology, Energy Medicine, Personal Development, Ancestral Strength and gain a holistic view of the world. See ad, page 19.

Spiritual

SACRED, CENTERED, YOU, LLC

412-258-0766 • SacredCenteredYou.com

Leza is known widely for her abilities as a sound healer, inspirational speaker and interfaith spiritual counselor. Healing arts services include vibrational sound healing, past life and soul regression, journey work counseling and conscious relationships counseling. Private and group services offered. Lesa Vivio, MS, LPC, CMHIMP, DDiv, DSM.

Urban Farming

GROW PITTSBURGH

Raqueeb Bey, Garden Resource Coordinator

6587 Hamilton Ave, Ste 2W, Pittsburgh 412-362-4769 ext 215 • GrowPittsburgh.org

Raqueeb@GrowPittsburgh.org

Grow Pittsburgh is an urban, agriculture nonprofit that teaches people how to grow food. They envision the day when everyone grows and eats fresh, local and healthy food. Get involved. Take a tour, become a member, learn, volunteer! Visit their website for workshops and events.

Vibrational Medicine

ROOTED IN SOUND

Wyatt Melius

2000 Smallman St, Pittsburgh 412-609-8999 • RootedInSound.com

Sound massage, Nada yoga, forest bathing, and acoustic-induced meditation. Check the calendar for sound baths on Sundays and Thursdays. See ad, page 18.

SACRED, CENTERED,

YOU,

LLC

412-258-0766

SacredCenteredYou.com

Offering individual and group experiences that promote healing through self-discovery and personal acceptance. Special focus on sound healing, life coaching, qigong, and vibrational medicine.

Wellness

360 CAFÉ LLC

Tyleda Worou

Pittsburgh • 724-374-8089 • 360Cafellc.com

360 Café LLC is an alternative health and wellness business with the goal of helping others to heal from the inside out while taking a holistic approach to healing by offering distance reiki, and crystal healing sessions to help our consumers restore physical and emotional balance.

SALT OF THE EARTH

Himalayan Salt Cave and Crystal Boutique

504 Valleybrook Rd,McMurray, PA 15317

724-260-0472 • SaltOfTheEarthPgh.com

Experience the known ancient healing benefits of halotherapy in the Himalayan salt cave, built from 16 tons of pure Himalayan salt. 45-minute sessions scheduled on the hour. Can be rented for private groups up to 10. Provides an inviting and relaxing environment for events and classes: yoga, meditation, sound healing, and reiki. The crystal boutique offers an array of authentic crystals, jewelry, candles, locally-made bath and body, and Himalayan salt products. The knowledgeable staff will help find the right crystal for you or your home décor.

VISIONS REIKI AND SOUL SPA

206 Alexander Ave, Strabane 724-745-1785 • VisionsReikiAndSoulSpa.com

As a full-service energy-health and wellness center, our goal is to empower people to be the best version of themselves. With the understanding that all wellness begins with a healthy energy system, Visions Reiki and Soul Spa offers holistic services, workshops, and coaching to help you establish a healthy and well-balanced lifestyle.

Yoga And Meditation

STERLING YOGA AND WELLNESS CENTER

393 Vanadium Rd, Ste 201, Pittsburgh, PA 15243

SterlingYoga.com

Sterling Yoga is invested in our students’ health and well-being. We offer alignment-based Iyengar and Hatha style yoga and meditation classes, YTT programs, Himalayan salt cave, reiki, reflexology, massage and sound healing. Our studio is dedicated to helping you find the right path of healing and joy for you. See ad, page 8.