Natural Awakenings Pittsburgh August 2024

The Power of Community

CONTACT US

Natural Awakenings – Pittsburgh P.O. Box 390

Uledi, PA 15484

Phone: 724-271-8877

Publisher@naturalawakeningsswpa.com naturalawakeningsswpa.com

PITTSBURGH,PA EDITION

Publisher Michelle Dalnoky

Lead Editor Martin Miron

Production Assistant Joann Dalnoky

Design & Production C. Michele Rose

Sales & Marketing Michelle Dalnoky

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Subscribe online to receive your FREE monthly digital magazine at naturalawakeningsswpa.com

Cover image by anakopa from Getty Images_CanvaPro

NATIONAL TEAM

CEO Kimberly B. Whittle

National Editor Sandra Yeyati

Editor Brooke Goode

Copy Editor/Proofing Melanie Rankin

Layout Flip180 Media

© 2024 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment. CONTACT NATIONAL

Advertising & Submissions

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

NaturalAwakenings@KnoWEwell.com

Natural Awakenings is a network of natural lifestyle magazine publishers empowering local communities with knowledge, resources and connections to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

Own Your Own Franchise

Make a difference in your community. Become a Natural Awakenings franchise owner. Visit: Corp.NaturalAwakenings.com. Space for AD

2024 Editorial Calendar

January

February |

March

April

December | Reconnect & Rejuvenate

Natural Awakenings is printed on partially recycled and fully recyclable newsprint with black soy ink.

Confusing Climate Change at Home

It’s a strange and exciting year in the garden. This year, the frost ended early and so came the extreme hot weather. It hit the 80s before April ended and we have already had many days over 90, but haven’t hit the dog days of summer yet. My garden is so confused, and I guess all of us gardeners are, too.

I harvested lettuce in mid-May and broccoli in late May along with some potatoes grown in a felt bag and asparagus. We even had a few tomatoes in June and we are already eating corn. We had a bumper crop of zucchini, and now have lots shredded and in the freezer. Since my comfrey was also prolific this year, I harvested some early and spread it on my garden beds before I planted. It’s a great fertilizer, and I think that’s why I have so much zucchini (so much that I was joking with my sister that we may have to leave it on our neighbor’s porches and play ding-dong-ditch). I have a ton of other stuff on the way, too—so many potatoes, watermelon, cantaloupe, eggplant, cabbage, tons of kale of different varieties, beets, pumpkins, different squash varieties, patty pan, spaghetti, butternut, acorn, peppers, carrots, onions and more. We also had a bumper crop of wild black raspberries and blackberries this year. Yum!

The most exciting event in the garden is that my pawpaw trees have fruited for the first time with about 15 pawpaws. I carefully pollinated them with a paintbrush in the spring, and now we are watering them to make sure they don’t get overheated and drop their fruit. Now if we can just keep the animals from eating them!

This is the first patch of trees that I planted. I have since planted about 50 more and probably given away just as many. Another special event on the pawpaw front is that I have some trees sprouting from seeds I saved from known cultivars. The WVU arboretum has a pawpaw tasting every fall with samples of different varieties you can taste and save the seeds. I did so, and now have several saplings that I actually know the cultivar. It’s so exciting to watch things grow.

Michelle Dalnoky, RN, BA, Publisher

Riparian Area Bird Park Cleanup

Mt. Lebanon Nature Conservancy needs volunteers to remove invasive stilt grass and clear brush in the riparian area near the stream bed of Bird Park from 9 a.m. to noon, August 17. Bird Park is a beautiful spot, uniquely equipped for both active and passive recreation. A stream, trails and peaceful wooded surroundings lie adjacent to urban life.

Registered participants should bring water, gloves, loppers and clippers (extras will be on hand). Wear long pants and sleeves for tick and poison ivy protection. All activities are weather permitting. Meet at the Beadling Road entrance to Bird Park. Parking may be limited due to other events at the park.

Sign up at Tinyurl.com/BirdParkCleanup.

Nature and Clay Workshop

The Carnegie Museum of Art and Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens will present Nature and Clay workshops for artists of all skill levels in a twoday experiential ceramics and botany workshop from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., August 23 and 24, at the museum, connecting the practice and work of Beate Kuhn directly with the forms and patterns in what grows around us.

After closely viewing Kuhn’s artworks in the exhibition “Beate Kuhn: Turn”, and careful examination of the plants that informed her practice at the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, each workshop participant will create their own sculpture that will be fired and glazed.

Admission is $75 ($65 for Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh members). Location: 4400 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. For more information and registration, visit Tinyurl.com/NatureAndClay.

Gathering Around the Friendship Fire

by Marlaina Donato

Communities of old were created and bound by a collective ethos that included a common ethnicity and geography, as well as shared religious beliefs and traditions. Gathering around the fire combined the needs of survival with stories and song that ignited generations with spiritual sustenance.

In our modern Western world, we sit amid the ruins of what community used to be. Our tapestry of human bonds is becoming threadbare beneath the weight of overly scheduled lives, screen distraction and social divisions. Despite having constant contact with others on our phones, newsfeeds and online conference rooms, we may sometimes feel like lone travelers across a tundra of isolation. In nature, symbiotic relationships between fungi and trees, flowers and insects, and certain species of animals are the foundation of life. As much as 70 percent of forest flora depend upon winged creatures for pollination, and lichens are often composed of three organisms living together harmoniously.

As we go through the workday, drive the kids to practice and scramble to get dinner on the table, it is easy to forget that we, too, are part of the natural order. Fostering life-nourishing connections helps us to cope and thrive, while prioritizing openness can become much-needed soul medicine.

Summer days are often treasured for the memories we make with those we love, yet to-do lists loom over our heads as August winds down. This year, let’s take the spirit of summer into the cooler months and vow to spend quality time with loved ones, mend the broken threads in our relationships and enjoy each other’s company in the present moment. We can choose to appreciate everyone— from the supermarket cashier to the family dentist—and see their worthy contributions interwoven in our own lives. In doing so, we might remember our own invaluable roles in the fabric of life.

To rekindle and build community, join a local group or class to share a passion; chitchat with someone while standing in line at the grocery store; or invite a neighbor to spend quality time together. Take every opportunity to make a connection.

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

Lelde Feldmane-Zajarska/Shutterstock

Protecting Waterways

How Individuals Can Make a Real Difference

by Kelcie Ottoes

The biblical adage that all rivers lead to the sea is one way of saying that all water is connected. This natural design moves water from one place to the next, which means that polluting or littering along one creek eventually pollutes all waterways.

According to the Ocean Conservancy, 11 million metric tons of plastic enter the ocean each year, joining an estimated 200 million metric tons already circulating there. While many organizations and individuals engage in waterway cleanups on Earth Day in April, attention is needed the rest of the year, too.

Clean waterways support healthy ecosystems, beautify outdoor spaces, provide a safe

habitat for wildlife and improve outdoor recreational experiences. We can all play an impactful role in keeping waterways clean.

Getting Started

Most litter is found along the water’s edges, beaches, walking paths and parking areas. By committing to consistently keeping a section of waterway clean, we can deter others from littering in the area. “Studies have found that clean places stay cleaner,” says Lauren Berent Burgess, engagement director of Denver, Colorado’s The Greenway Foundation, a nonprofit steward of the South Platte River. “Something in our mentality will stop us from destroying a place that looks nice. We feel less guilty littering somewhere there is litter already. You can always keep a waterway clean by maintaining it.”

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides information online about actions to take around the house and in the community to support waterways. To learn more, visit epa.gov/urbanwaterspartners/how-you-canhelp. Also consider joining a local nonprofit that hosts cleanups, including Adopt a Beach, Ocean Conservancy, Keep America Beautiful, Waterkeeper Alliance and American Rivers.

“If you know somewhere is going to flood, clean up the area before it happens and while water levels are still low to prevent the trash from being swept away,” says Callie Schaser, the communications specialist at Living Lands & Waters, a river cleanup organization headquartered in Illinois. “They may seem small, but picking up items like cigarette butts can have a big impact, especially because of

all the contaminants that are in the filter. One cigarette filter can pollute up to two gallons of water before the contaminants are gone.”

Safety Tips

• Ensure minors are accompanied by an adult.

• Check the forecast for rain, flood warnings and high tides.

• Respect nature and leave wildlife alone.

• Do not enter high water.

• Exercise extreme caution when picking up anything sharp, hazardous or excessively heavy.

What to Bring to a Cleanup

• Drinking water

• Snacks

• Trash pickers

• Work gloves

• Closed-toed shoes

• Rain jacket

• Long sleeve shirt

• Long pants

• Hat

• Sunscreen

• Bug spray

• Trash and recycling bags

• Hand sanitizer

• Safety vest

The Impact of Organized Action

When individuals get organized, work together and execute cleanups consistently over time, their collective impacts can be transformative. The Ocean Conservancy has collected almost 349 million pounds of trash since 1986. Living Lands & Waters has cleaned up 25 rivers in 21 states and hosted 1,400 community-based cleanups that have removed more than 13 million pounds of trash since 1998. American Rivers has cleaned up 32.5 million pounds of litter and debris with the help of 1.3 million volunteers covering 261,000 miles of waterways since 1991.

Other Ways to Maintain Waterways

• Generate less trash by consuming less.

• Ensure local trails and parks have trash, recycling and compost bins.

• Eliminate single-use plastic, one of the largest contributors to waterway pollution, according to both Burgess and Schaser.

• Encourage others to take ownership of their trash and local waters.

• Persuade businesses and local groups to adopt sections of waterways and commit to keeping them clean.

• Support farmers using regenerative practices that do not contribute to chemical runoff.

Kelcie Ottoes is a copywriter and content creator specializing in sustainability and environmental topics. She is a frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings.

In Search of the Healthiest Diet

Sustenance and Habits Inspired by Blue Zones

by Maya Whitman

The average life expectancy is 77.5 years in the United States, but residents of the Seventh-Day Adventist city, Loma Linda, California, are outliving the rest of the country by 10 years. Like other regions of the world classified as Blue Zones, Loma Linda’s soil and water aren’t sprinkled with magic, but daily lifestyle and dietary habits might be key contributing factors.

Coined by National Geographic explorer and researcher Dan Buettner, the term “Blue Zones” is bestowed upon intriguing corners of the world where people reach their ninth decade and beyond without suffering from chronic illness and disease. While no definitive formula for longevity exists in Loma Linda or any of the other four Blue Zones—Nuoro Province, Sardinia, Italy; Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica; Okinawa, Japan; and Ikaria, Greece—commonalities include staying physically active, eating unprocessed food and enjoying a vibrant social network.

“By prioritizing physical activity, encouraging plant-based diets and creating spaces that promote social interactions, communities can reduce the incidence of chronic diseases and improve overall well-being,” says Buettner, author of The Blue Zones Kitchen, who found his life’s work traveling the world in search of centenarian secrets.

Delicious Simplicity

In 2023, JAMA Internal Medicine published the findings of a long-term study involving more than 75,000 women and 44,000 men over 36 years, which determined that adherence to one of four plant-based and Mediterranean dietary patterns can lower the risk of premature death. All of the dietary guidelines in this study included whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts and legumes. Growing evidence suggests that nutrient-dense, unprocessed meals play a major role in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to cardiovascular disease, cancer and diabetes.

“Diets in Blue Zones are predominantly plantbased, with a heavy emphasis on vegetables,

fruits, legumes and whole grains. They also eat a variety of beans, which are a staple in their diets and an excellent source of protein and fiber,” Buettner points out, adding that moderate portion sizes, unhurried mealtime and leaving the table when 80 percent full are also highlights of the Blue Zone lifestyle.

Anna Freedman, a natural-food chef, educator and founder of Wholefood Harmony, in London, England, specializes in a health-supporting macrobiotic approach based on ancient Japanese philosophy and developed in the 1920s by George Ohsawa. She says, “Whole foods are essential to health and longevity. Plants capture the sun’s energy, so consuming vegetables, fruits, legumes and grains bestows both nutrition and vibrancy upon the body. These foods are alkalizing and directly nourish the cells, restoring the blood quality and supporting health and longevity.”

Macrobiotic favorites like lentils, chickpeas, whole grains and dark, leafy greens echo Blue Zone dietary models and are believed to promote overall systemic balance. The macrobiotic approach, adds Freedman, “can be adjusted to focus on improving a certain health condition or adapted to meet climate, phase of life or another factor.” In her work with clients, she encourages the consumption of a wide range of plant ingredients and cooking styles, and even incorporates certain animal proteins, to accommodate client preferences.

Diets that seek to promote a longer, healthier life usually include powerhouse ingredients such as naturally fermented sauerkraut and kimchi, legumes like lentils and split peas, and whole grains, especially barley, millet and oats.

Social Sustenance

In our modern world, feelings of isolation are reaching epidemic proportions, and in the medical community, loneliness is now seen as a risk factor for mortality that is equal to the effects of obesity, smoking or

a sedentary lifestyle. Through Blue Zone research, it is understood that emotional nourishment is vital to good health. According to Buettner, “In Blue Zones, people often engage in regular social interactions, whether it’s through communal meals, faith-based gatherings or simply spending time with neighbors and family.” A table of delicious food surrounded by loved ones is an inspiring way to eat and age gracefully.

For Gladys McGarey, M.D., cofounder of the American Holistic Medical Association, who is still practicing medicine at 103 years of age, our thoughts are also a form of nourishment. “What we feed our minds grows

and lives, and we become it,” says the author of the bestseller The Well- Lived Life. “It has to do with love, the whole process of life. Love must be shared to flow, and life is the same. We must not only create community, but live it.”

Freedman sums it up saying, “Eating and togetherness is a key feature of humanity, which is alarmingly in sharp decline. Food was always meant to be enjoyed together, and doing so serves up much more than simply nutrition.”

Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings magazine.

Immune-Boosting Soup With Miso and Ginger Scent

This macrobiotic soup combines all the healing and digestive benefits of miso and ginger. Noodles, fish and a variation of vegetables can be added, too.

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

Dash sesame oil

1 leek, finely sliced

1 carrot, finely diced

1 zucchini or summer squash, finely diced

3-inch portion of wakame sea vegetable, rinsed and cut into small strips

3 cups boiling water

Spring onions, finely cut for garnish

4 tsp brown rice miso paste

1 inch ginger root, juiced

Heat the sesame oil and sauté the leek for one minute.

Add the other vegetables and wakame. To make a broth, add water to cover the ingredients, bring to a boil then simmer for 4 minutes.

Remove one ladle of broth and place in a bowl. Add the miso to this broth, stirring to dissolve and incorporate the paste into the broth, and then pour it back into the original pot of cooked vegetables. Add ginger juice and simmer for another minute or so. Garnish with spring onion.

Recipe courtesy of Anna Freedman.

The Power of Healing Circles

Resilience and Enjoyment in Nurturing Company

by Maya Whitman

Throughout history, cultures around the globe have used the circle to represent wholeness, vital energy and community. When humans of like hearts gather in a circle, this timeless geometric symbol becomes embodied, lessening the space between individuals. In today’s challenging times, healing circles echo ancient traditions by offering support from the deep well of human bonds. People from all walks of life are coming together to tap into their own healing potential by picking up a hand drum, sharing the cancer treatment journey, dancing to tribal beats or expressing the deeper self with colorful paints. Circles with inspired focus can help us navigate the rough waters of addiction, grief, illness and transitions by breaking down

the protective walls we so often build in the name of survival. “We humans are a social species, and whether you are extroverted or introverted, the experience of belonging amongst others brings an impactful sense of purpose,” says Natalie Lain, executive director at Amethyst Retreat Center, in Duncannon, Pennsylvania. She relates that seeking communal bonds in gatherings like ecstatic dance events isn’t about covering up hardship with false positives, but rather finding grace by “cultivating a foundation of inner strength and ease.”

Drumming Through Tough Times

Inspired by diverse cultural traditions, drum circles are offered at medical centers,

hospitals and nursing homes for people with cancer, Parkinson’s disease and other neurological disorders, brain injuries, post-traumatic stress disorder, dementia and viral-based illnesses, including AIDS. In a 2001 study at an outpatient medical facility in Pennsylvania, researchers found that group drumming that followed a music-therapy protocol boosted the body’s natural killer cell activity and lowered the stress response among participants. Japanese research published in 2020 in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience shows that drumming communication programs help older people with dementia experience improved cognitive function and body composition.

Family members and caregivers can find much-needed relief by releasing challenging emotions through rhythmic drumming. “It’s been very rewarding hosting drum circles with those navigating dementia and Alzheimer’s disease,” says Laura Cerrano, a reiki practitioner and healing drum circle facilitator in New York City and Long Island. “We’ve seen improved social interactions, joy, acknowledgment, feeling more present and restoring dignity.”

A Place To Be Ourselves

Some healing circles use the arts for selfexpression and restorative benefits. In such settings, it is not necessary to aim for excellence or have any special talents; simply being present in the moment will suffice. Whether it’s a free-form dance gathering or painting session, the main objective is being in our skin, and this, Cerrano notes, initiates “a greater capacity for heart-to-heart connections and healing.”

Lain concurs, saying, “Creative healing circles are all about learning how to accept ourselves as we are and remembering to nurture our inner child. We open up our hearts in these circles and let ourselves experience the joy of pure expression, shedding layers of self-criticism and competitiveness.”

Expanding our capacity to love is a running thread through cacao ceremonies—gatherings that incorporate the consumption of unadulterated chocolate in its purest form, often prepared as a warm, frothy beverage. In the ancient Americas, cacao was used both ceremonially and medicinally. Modern cacao circles are highly diverse and go beyond religious structure. Often interwoven with music, dance, prayer or meditation, these gatherings inspire reflection and self-exploration.

Online circles can also provide deep emotional sustenance, especially for those unable to attend local events. Cerrano, who has been hosting reiki circles since 2014, saw a need to expand virtually when the world came to a halt in 2020. “The pandemic inspired me to provide weekly virtual reiki circles because people needed a place to gather, feel safe and be heard.”

Whether online or in the neighborhood, healing circles offer something for everyone, and starting up a circle can be just as rewarding.

“One of the most important things as a host of mindfulness-focused events is to embody the idea that we are all each other’s teachers,”

advises Lain. “It’s important to create an inviting, safe space within your group where people can feel at ease and let their guard down.”

Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.

Jozef Klopacka/Shutterstock

The Power of Community

Finding a Path to Meaningful Connection

by Thais Harris, BCHN

Despite society’s increasing emphasis on individualism, the concept of community remains a powerful force for personal and collective well-being. Loneliness is detrimental to both mental and physical health and comparable to smoking or obesity in terms of risk factors. Among older adults, isolation is associated with an increased probability of dementia. In his book Project Unlonely: Healing Our Crisis of Disconnection, Dr. Jeremy Noble discusses the public health and economic impacts of widespread seclusion, as well as the importance of building meaningful connections. He advocates making loneliness screening a routine part of health care and prescribing social activities such as museum visits, classes and nature walks for patients. These measures have been effectively used in the United Kingdom.

There is a growing movement that encourages us to find our tribe—those that resonate with our own core values, interests and lifestyle. While historically associated with Indigenous groups, a “tribe” is defined as a social division consisting of families or communities linked by social, economic, religious or blood ties, with a common culture and dialect. The point is to surround ourselves with supportive individuals that uplift us and provide a sense of belonging.

Multigenerational Communion

Family is, in a sense, our original tribe, serving a crucial role in our sense of belonging throughout life. Regardless of interpersonal dynamics, maintaining consistent connection with relatives can ease loneliness and improve longevity

and other health outcomes. In the world’s Blue Zones, where people live the longest and have a better overall quality of life, the happiest centenarians build their lives around their families, and multigenerational households are common.

To remain anchored in our heritage, it is essential to regularly share moments and activities with kin, enjoying family meals, holiday parties, game nights, walks around the neighborhood or even living room hangouts. Simply spending time together allows us to share family stories, learn from each other and create traditions. Outside the family, there are many ways to find or create a tribe of cheerful acquaintances and deeply held friendships that form a safety net to shield us from drifting into isolation.

Serving Others

Volunteering is a powerful way to engage in activities that align with our passions and values while also connecting with like-minded people and helping a cause or deserving group of individuals. One example is Volunteers in Medicine (VIM), founded in 2003, which brings together 70 medical professionals and approximately 100 community stakeholders that volunteer their time to provide free health care for

the uninsured people of the Berkshires, in Massachusetts. While the practitioners treat patients—in-person and online—the others serve as interpreters, drivers and receptionists. The generosity of these individuals addresses an important need in the community and keeps people out of hospitals.

“By engaging in VIM’s mission, volunteers find purpose and meaning through the act of giving back, enhancing their own lives while improving others,” shares VIM Executive Director Ilana Steinhauer. “The opportunity to serve the community not only fulfills a personal desire to help those in need, but also fosters a deep sense of connection and community among volunteers. This camaraderie and shared mission enrich the volunteers’ lives, creating a ripple effect of positivity that strengthens the entire community fabric, making it a cornerstone of community and personal development.”

Another example is nonprofit Citizen University, which equips Americans to be cultural catalysts. Their Local Civic Collaboratory aims to shift the paradigm of success from individual achievement to shared triumph. Through collaborative gatherings, participants are empowered to address local issues, launch educational initiatives and spark artistic endeavors

while relishing in deep conversations, forging meaningful bonds and launching networks of unified action.

Making Deep Connections

Coming together around shared beliefs or devotional practices can be another avenue to step away from seclusion and into a loving fraternity. Some people with shared values and goals choose to live with each other in what is known as intentional communities, many of which emphasize sustainability, cooperation and mutual support. The Foundation for Intentional Community offers an online directory to find the right living situation based on multiple criteria, including geographical location, community type, dietary preferences, educational styles, religious or spiritual beliefs and renewable energy sources.

The Kindness of Strangers

When we are out and about, we encounter people we don’t know—strangers in supermarket aisles, bank lines or walking their dogs in the local park. Instead of passing by without acknowledging them, we have the choice to say hello or exchange pleasantries. On his podcast “Hidden Brain”, Shankar Vedantam explores how these tiny encounters can impact our lives. Smiling at

people in the street, expressing gratitude for small acts of kindness or complimenting someone’s style elevates both parties. Studies by Amit Kumar, assistant professor of marketing and psychology at the University of Texas at Austin, and Nicholas Epley, professor of behavioral science at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, highlight the beneficial, long-term impact of small acts of kindness and positive interactions on recipients and givers.

Bonding Online and In Person

If friendships were lost during the pandemic, rebuilding a tribe will require intentionality and creativity. Reaching out with purpose to create community might just be what saves us and the planet. When we feel a sense of belonging, we can collaborate for the common good and boost our ability to protect nature, innovate and find solutions for the world’s problems. How we network is limited only by our imagination: Take classes at the local library, community college or arts organization; find a fun activity on MeetUp.com; or form a group to make new friends that share a common interest.

While online tribes can offer accessibility and a broader reach, thus facilitating connections with people from different

geographies and backgrounds, face-to-face interactions are essential to our well-being.

Holistic psychologist Victoria Kar shares, “Never in history has humanity been more disconnected from each other than now. The predominance of urban lifestyles creates barriers for deep social connections, and technology creates a false sense of belonging—where we can reach someone on the other side of the world on a screen—yet have no one to hold next to us.”

In-person communities provide a more heartfelt sense of fellowship. When we are present, we emit energetic fields, and the heart radiates perhaps the most powerful energy. Studies conducted by the HeartMath Institute have shown that the heart’s magnetic field can be detected by other individuals up to five feet away, igniting our sense of belonging in a way that is not possible online.

In his recent advisory report, “Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation,” U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Hallegere Murthy notes that, across age groups, people are spending less time with each other in person than two

decades ago, and this is most pronounced among young people aged 15 to 24 that are engaging in 70 percent fewer interactions with friends. Murthy points out, “The impact of this lack of social connection can be felt in our schools, workplaces and organizations, where performance, productivity and engagement are diminished.”

The report outlines six recommendations to enhance social connection, including:

• Urging for greater social infrastructure at parks, libraries and public programs

• Enacting pro-connection public policies at every level of government such as access to public transport and paid family leave

• Mobilizing the health sector to address needs stemming from isolation

• Reforming digital environments

• Investing in research to deepen our understanding of social isolation

• Cultivating a culture of connection

In his book Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World, Murthy identifies three types of

connections that play a crucial role in our lives: intimate (close friends and family), relational (friends and acquaintances) and collective (communities). Factors such as work culture, social media and urbanization can hinder meaningful connections, contributing to a growing sense of isolation.

As a solution, he emphasizes the importance of small, consistent actions such as active listening, expressing gratitude and engaging with community. True connection is a source of healing. The Surgeon General urges, “Answer that phone call from a friend. Make time to share a meal. Listen without the distraction of your phone. Perform an act of service. Express yourself authentically.”

Finding a tribe can significantly impact our health and happiness, providing support, joy and inclusion. The connections we choose to nurture can enrich our lives in profound ways, ensuring we thrive in body, mind and spirit.

Thais Harris is a board-certified holistic nutritionist, bestselling author and international speaker. Connect at NourishTogether.com.

thanks you

Cross-Brain Fitness

An Integrative Workout for the Mind and Body

by David J. Sautter, NASM (CPT, FNS, PES), ACE (SCS)

Holistic approaches to health and well-being that consider the entire person—body, mind and spirit— are especially effective in cultivating creativity and mental equilibrium. Cross-brain fitness training encourages the use of both the left and right hemispheres of the brain in tandem to improve body and brain function.

One study published in Advances in Physical Education suggests that exercises involving movements across the middle of the body improved the ability to transfer motor skills from one hand to the other, most likely due to improved communication between the two sides of the brain. A 2016 study published in the Journal of Exercise, Nutrition and Biochemistry found that a 12-week brain health exercise program for seniors improved lower and upper body strength, as well as aerobic endurance, while also increasing

cognitive function and levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a protein that plays an important role in neuronal survival and growth.

Engaging Sports

Physical activities that engage both brain hemispheres boost health and enhance creativity by integrating analytical and creative thinking. Team sports such as soccer and basketball are excellent for cross-brain development. They demand strategic planning and logical thinking, activities typically associated with the left hemisphere. At the same time, they require players to use spatial awareness and creativity—skills linked to the right hemisphere. This combination encourages players to continuously switch between different modes of thinking, thereby improving brain agility and coordination.

“Team sports require players to analyze the game situation, anticipate opponents’ moves and strategize accordingly,” says Danielle Smith, a registered dietitian and personal trainer. “Players need to understand the rules of the game, their positionspecific responsibilities and how to execute plays effectively. Team sports offer a great way for these skills to develop naturally in a fun environment.”

Rock climbing is a prime example of an activity that blends cognitive demands. It requires meticulous problem-solving and advanced planning (left-brain activities) to choose the best routes and techniques for ascent. Simultaneously, climbers must employ spatial awareness and adaptability (right-brain activities) to navigate and adjust to new challenges on the fly, making it a comprehensive brain exercise.

Sailing combines the technical knowledge and analytical thinking characteristic of the left brain, such as navigating and understanding sailing mechanics, with the intuitive grasp of environmental elements like wind and water, a right-brain activity. Sailors must continuously interpret these dynamic elements and adjust their strategies accordingly, promoting an advanced level of hemispheric integration.

Implementing a Routine

Incorporating a variety of cross-brain training activities into a regular fitness routine is crucial for engaging different parts of the brain and maximizing cognitive development. Here are some tips and strategies for creating an effective cross-brain fitness routine:

• Add variety. Rotate between activities that challenge different cognitive skills. For example, blend team sports, which enhance strategic thinking and cooperation, with individual pursuits like rock climbing or sailing that require problem-solving and adaptability. This diversity not only prevents boredom but also stimulates different brain areas.

• Be consistent. Schedule brain-stimulating physical activities several times a week. This regular engagement helps to encourage new neural connections and improve brain function over time.

• Progress gradually. Start with simpler tasks and gradually increase the complexity of the activities as cognitive and physical abilities improve. This progression keeps the brain challenged and engaged as training advances.

• Track results. Use a journal or digital app to record the types of activities performed, their duration and any noticeable improvements in thinking, problem-solving or creative output. Also reflect on changes in emotional and mental well-being. Such monitoring is essential to appreciate the benefits of a cross-brain fitness routine.

• Check cognitive progress. Consider periodic cognitive assessments to formally measure cognitive improvements. These can be simple online tests designed to evaluate brain functions such as memory, attention, problem-solving and creativity.

Holistic Support

Cross-brain fitness can be supported by other activities during the day. Regular meditation, for example, quiets the mind’s chatter, allowing both sides of the brain to work in harmony, thus enhancing the ability to generate new ideas and solve problems creatively. “Meditation and mindfulness practices are associated with strengthening the brain’s connectivity,” explains Kathleen Benson, a registered dietitian specializing in women’s health, sports nutrition and digestive health. “This can improve attention, memory, decision-making and general mindfulness. Regular practitioners often have improved emotional control, lower stress and clearer thinking.”

What we eat significantly impacts our brain function and overall health. A balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and proteins can enhance cognitive function and support both the logical and creative faculties of the brain. Foods like blueberries, nuts, fish and green leafy vegetables boost brain health and foster mental clarity.

Adequate sleep helps consolidate memories and clear brain fog, making room for new ideas and creative thinking. Sleep also balances the emotional states, ensuring that both the analytical and creative sides of the brain can function optimally without the interference of stress or anxiety.

David J. Sautter is a certified trainer, fitness-nutrition specialist, and health and fitness writer.

Overcoming Generation Z Loneliness

Prioritizing Human Interactions Over Screen Time

by Thais Harris, BCHN

Generation Z, defined as those born between the mid1990s and early 2010s, has grown up in a digital era characterized by constant connectivity, yet accompanied by profound isolation. The pervasive use of social media, economic uncertainty, hybrid work environments, climate change anxiety and societal pressures contribute to this sense of loneliness. The Cigna U.S. Loneliness Index found that nearly eight in 10 Gen Zers (79 percent) are lonely. Schools reported that between 2012 and 2018 nearly double the number of high school students worldwide expressed a sense of loneliness compared to the previous decade. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, loneliness is associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety and premature death. Those that experience social isolation have a 32 percent higher risk of early death.

A leading theory for this phenomenon is that 2012 was the first year when more than 50 percent of Americans had access to a smartphone, and the use of social media platforms reached critical mass. While these platforms offer connection, they often lack the depth and authenticity required for meaningful relationships. They give us the illusion of being connected while having our heads down, focused on our devices and ignoring the people and experiences around us. The curated nature of online profiles also can foster feelings of inadequacy and increasing loneliness.

To address this epidemic, it is essential to focus on creating environments that encourage genuine interactions and a sense of belonging. Understanding our needs and triggers, while also nourishing a sense of connection from within, can open the possibility to greater social connection and deeper interactions in the world. Here are some strategies:

Engage in community. Active participation in local activities can significantly reduce feelings of isolation. Volunteering, joining clubs or participating in neighborhood events foster a sense of purpose and connection. Engaging in community service can enhance social networks and provide emotional support while helping others.

Share interests and hobbies. Finding and participating in groups centered around shared interests can lead to deeper connections. Whether it’s a book club, sports team or foreign language class, these gatherings offer opportunities for meaningful interactions and friendships. Researchers from The University of Queensland, in Australia, found that engaging in activities that align with personal interests helps to form a coherent social identity and reduces feelings of isolation.

Talk to strangers. Contrary to what older generations taught their children, talking to strangers is not necessarily a dangerous endeavor. It might seem easier to interact with our devices than start a conversation with someone new, but the results of the latter provide a greater sense of well-being and a feeling of belonging. Happier people spend more time talking to others, and when people have more conversations with others, they report being happier.

Be authentic, kind and open. Building genuine relationships requires authenticity. Being open and honest about our feelings and experiences fosters trust and deeper connection. When unsure about what to say, a random act of kindness can profoundly impact the day for the better, creating a ripple effect in the community.

Start from within. “Our epidemic of loneliness corresponds to an epidemic of self-neglect. This isn’t just about being out of touch with others, but with our own body’s needs. Screen time can invade the space for adequate sleep and movement, leading to less resilience and reduced immunity,” says Peter Sholley, a psychotherapist in Massachusetts. “The gut biome is directly implicated, affected by low-nutrition foods, antibiotics, and sleep and exercise deficiencies. Many studies point to a connection between a compromised gut biome and lack of microbial diversity with an increase in depression and anxiety.”

The Power of Community

A strong, in-person community provides a support system, reduces stress and promotes overall well-being. To combat the loneliness epidemic among Generation Z, we can start by extending a kind greeting to everyone we meet—on a bus, in the classroom or in the checkout line.

Thais Harris is a holistic nutritionist and author. Learn more at NourishTogether.com.

Pet Posse

Building a Network Around Our Animal Companions

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

Like the African proverb “It takes a village to raise a child,” it takes a village to raise a pet, too. Pet ownership involves much more than just feeding and walking them. It requires a holistic approach that includes training, socialization, health care and emotional well-being. A supportive community can play a crucial role in raising a pet by offering a diverse set of skills and resources that contribute to their comprehensive care.

Pets Build Community

A 2017 study across urban sites in the U.S. and Australia found that pet owners have significantly higher “social capital” than non-pet owners. Defined as the “connections among individuals, social networks, and the norms of reciprocity and trustworthiness that arise from them,” social capital is crucial for community well-being.

The study describes how pets can facilitate social interactions, acting as catalysts for building social networks and fostering a sense of community. Such interactions extend beyond simply breaking the ice between strangers; they contribute to a wider social trust and the ties that bind communities together.

A recent report by Mars Incorporated, makers of human and pet food, highlights the power of pets to bring people together and alleviate the loneliness epidemic. Nearly nine in 10 adults say pets are one of the easiest conversation-starters, and pet parents say pets made them more familiar with their neighbors (85 percent) and more invested in their community (70 percent).

Benefits of a Pet Community

A supportive pet community enhances the quality of life for pets and their owners.

• Socialization for Pets and Owners: Pets need social interaction to thrive. Regular playdates, dog park visits and community events help pets interact with other animals, improving behavior, reducing anxiety and boosting happiness. For owners, these gatherings can foster lasting friendships and a supportive network.

• Shared Knowledge and Resources: Experienced pet owners share advice on training techniques, veterinarians, pet-sitting services, groomers and pet-friendly activities, helping pets receive the best care.

• Emotional Support: Pet ownership can be challenging. A community offers much-needed emotional support, empathy and practical advice during difficult times, such as dealing with a sick pet or behavioral issues.

• Active Lifestyle: Pet communities promote an active lifestyle that includes group walks, hiking clubs and outdoor events that keep pets and owners physically healthier and happier.

• Advocacy and Education: Pet communities organize events for spaying and neutering, raise awareness about pet adoption and host workshops on pet care. These efforts contribute to the well-being of pets and promote responsible pet ownership.

Finding the Right Tribe

Joining a meetup hosted by a dog park or local pet club is an excellent starting point to find a pet community nearby. Websites like Meetup and Facebook help connect pet owners in the area. Online communities, including breed-specific forums and pet care groups, offer platforms to share experiences, seek advice and build friendships worldwide. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok also host vibrant pet communities.

Veterinary clinics and pet stores often act as local pet community hubs, hosting events and providing bulletin boards for announcements. Participating in pet-friendly festivals, charity walks and adoption fairs offers great opportunities to meet other pet owners and

learn about local resources. These activities not only help in finding a pet tribe, but also enhance a pet’s social life and well-being.

The right pet community includes professionals such as veterinarians, pet trainers and nutritionists to provide access to high-quality, accurate and reliable information and support. These experts stay updated with the latest research and best practices, allowing pet owners to benefit from the most recent advancements in pet care.

Building a Strong Community

If an existing community doesn’t fit specific needs, consider organizing personal events. Starting a weekly dog walk, hosting a pet playdate in the backyard or planning a pet-friendly picnic can create a supportive network of pet owners with shared interests. Volunteering at animal shelters, rescue organizations or pet adoption events is another excellent way to connect with other passionate pet owners while contributing to a worthy cause.

The power of community in pet ownership is undeniable. Embracing the collective care model ensures a healthier, happier and more connected life for all involved.

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.

NATIONAL PRODUCT PICKS

Therasage is the gold standard for energy healing, naturally healing infrared, negative ions and eliminating EMFs.

Therasage.com

Scan to register for educational webcast to learn more.

A NEW fun and interactive series dedicated to the health and well-being of Preschoolers and their families. WORLD MUSIC, MOVEMENT, MINDFULNESS,

CREATIVE PLAY, TIME IN NATURE, & POWER OF THE HEART! SUBSCRIBE today!

Scan to learn more and subscribe.

Founded in 1932, Boiron, the world leader in homeopathic medicines, is best known for its popular Arnicare® line of pain relievers and Oscillococcinum® flu reliever.

BoironUSA.com

Save 20% with code NA20

OB/GYN-formulated

Rejuvenates vaginal tissue, restores natural moisture, and helps prevent bladder leaks.

DrAnnaCabeca.com/ products/julva

Thursday, August 1

American Artist Appreciation Month Featuring Daniel Williams – 7-8:30pm. Online event hosted by Atlantic Institute Greenville. Zoom event celebrating Daniel Williams, a renowned artist and illustrator now based in Cuenca, Ecuador. An enlightening and inspiring workshop in the creative world of Williams’ unique illustrative style and though-provoking perspective. Tickets $Free or $10 donation for eCookbook from 2020’s Cuisine of Different Cultures, at Eventbrite.com/e/ American-Artist-Appreciation-Month-Featuring-Daniel-Williams-Tickets-909878480027. Info at AtlanticInstituteSC.org.

Heart Health & Heart Power Workshop –7-9pm. Hosted by the Brauer Institute for Holistic Medicine. Part of the Empowered Living Series – The Art of Living Well. Step into your power. Live your best life. Thrive. Sound Bath Meditation Workshop. Registration $135 at BrauerInstitute.com/Event/Heart-HealthHeart-Power-Workshop/. The Brauer Institute for Holistic Medicine, 300 Mt. Lebanon Blvd, Suite 220. 412-925-0812.

Saturday, August 3

2nd Annual Building Bridges Day – 9am1pm. Hosted by Ebtehal Badawi. Promoting diversity and unity in Pittsburgh through art. Join us for a unity walk across the Roberto Clemente Bridge, then enjoy mural painting, community dialogues, multicultural perfor-

mances, live music, food vendors and more. Roberto Clemente Bridge, 115 Federal St.

Monday, August 5

Labyrinth Walk – 6-7pm. Hosted by West Virginia Botanic Garden. August begins the harvest season and the Cel;tic Festival of Lughnasa – a time to celebrate the light in our lives, and our labyrinth walk will focus on gratitude for the harvest we reap. $5/members, $15/non-members. Register at FlipCause. com/Secure/Event_Step2/MTg4OTI4/264665. West Virginia Botanic Garden, 1061 Tyrone Rd, Morgantown, WV. Info @WVBG.org.

Wednesday, August 7

Potato Basket Class #1 – 6-8pm. Hosted by Appalachian Creativity Center. This 4-session

class will run Aug 7, 14, 21 & 28. This popular potato basket is also great for flower arrangements. The class costs $70 and includes all material. Register by calling 724-208-1746. Appalachian Creativity Center, 136 South Pittsburgh St, Connellsville. AppalachianCreativityCenter.com.

Thursday, August 8

Lunch and Learn Webinar: Invasive Plant Species – Noon-1pm. Online event hosted by Allegheny Land Trust. Learn about some invasive plant species Allegheny Land Trust manages on their greenspace. Virtual training meant to inform participants in the Invasive Species Removal planned for August 10th at Dead Man’s Hollow Conservation area, but all are welcome. Find the zoom link at AlleghenyLandTrust.NetworkForGood.com/Events.

Saturday, August 10

10th Annual Pittsburgh VegFest – 11am5pm. Hosted by Pittsburgh VegFest. So many delicious local and national food vendors, live music, animal welfare organizations, shopping, and family-friendly activities. Leashed furry friends are welcome. $Free. Allegheny Commons Park East, 305 E Ohio St. Info at PittsburghVegFest.org.

Sunday, August 11

Foundations: Observation – 9-10:30am. Online course hosted by London Drawing Group.

Part 1 of a 4-part course exploring the fundamental skills of life drawing. Observation is the starting point for any figurative drawing. £20 suggested but pay what you can. Tickets and info at Eventbrite.co.uk/e/Foundations-Observation-Tickets-923736158717.

Monday, August 12

Virtual Public Info Session: Deer Creek Conservation Project – 5:30-6:30pm. Hosted by Allegheny Land Trust. The Deer Creek Conservation Project in the Deer Creek Watershed hosts part of the Rachel Carson Trail. Conserving this green space will preserve the character of this community, build resiliency, and provide expanded public recreational opportunities for generations. Q&A, information, and ways to get involved. Registration is appreciated at AlleghenyLandTrust.NetworkForGood.com/Events/73317-virtual-public-info-session-deer-creek-conservation-project. Follow the zoom link from there to participate. Adult Summer Camp: Outdoor Meals –6-8pm. Hosted by Allegheny Land Trust. Age 18+. Miss the good old days of summer camp? Join us for an evening of adult summer camp with a focus on cooking and eating outdoors, both over a campfire and by foraging edible plants. There will be a light meal and a cocktail. Rain or shine. No walk-ins. Registration $25 at AlleghenyLandTrust.NetworkForGood.com/ Events/68092-Adult-Summer-Camp-Outdoor-meals. Fern Hollow Nature Center, 1901 Glen Mitchell Rd, Sewickley. Info at AlleghenyLandTrust.org.

Thursday, August 15

Walking the Path of the Great Fire of London – 1-2pm EST. Free online lecture hosted by Road Scholar. In the year 1666 the Great Fire of London destroyed 13,200 homes, 87 churches and London’s Cathedral leaving over 100,000 Londoners homeless. This virtual field trip begins on Pudding Lane, where the fire broke out, and follows the trail of destruction through the city. Registration and info at RoadScholar.org/Find-An-Adventure/24405/ Online-Lecture-Walking-the-Path-of-theGreat-Fire-of-London/dates/.

Friday, August 16

Science Stroll: Signs of Wildlife – 6-8pm. Hosted by Allegheny Land Trust. Look for scat, tracks, nests, and galls in search of creatures big and small that call Audubon Greenway home. Rain or shine. No walk-ins. Registration $Free at AlleghenyLandTrust.NetworkForGood.com/Events/71122-Science-Stroll-SignsOf-Wildlife. Audubon Greenway, 160 Magee Rd, Sewickley. Info at AlleghenyLandTrust.org.

Saturday, August 17

Intro to Woodworking – Hardwood Breadboard – 10am-4pm. Hosted by HackPittsburgh. Class includes one month membership. Age 13+. Learn basic concepts of safe use of wood shop tools and equipment while crafting a custom wooden bread board. $150. Register at Members.HackPittsburgh.org/

Event-5804276. HackPittsburgh, 1936 Fifth Ave. Info at HackPittsburgh.org.

Sunday, August 18

Foundations: Shadow & Tone – 9-10:30am. Online course hosted by London Drawing Group. Part 2 of a 4-part course exploring the fundamental skills of life drawing. Shadow & Tone can affect the emotive weight of an artists’ marks and change the mood of a drawing. £20 suggested but pay what you can. Tickets and info at Eventbrite.co.uk/e/Foundations-Shadow-Tone-Tickets-923902295637.

Forest Therapy Certification: Module 2-Pennsylvania Plant Life & Our Natural Setting – Sunday, 9am-5pm, Monday, 9am-5pm. This two-day module builds upon module 1 of our Forest therapy Certification series. A comprehensive journey into the world of native plants, common medicinal plants, basic botany principles and an intro to the common wildlife of the region. Completion of Module 1 recommended but not mandatory. $450/ module. Registration and info at RootedInSound.com/Event-Calendar/Forest-Therapy-Certification-Module-2-2024-Aug18.

Monday, August 19

FLOTSAM! River Circus Monaca – 6-7:30pm. Hosted by Flotsam River Circus. Flotsam is a troupe of musicians, circus artists, and puppeteers traveling on a handmade raft to perform at riverfront towns. Free event, donations appreciated via Venmo to ‘rivercircus’. Monaca Riverfront Park, 593 Atlantic Ave, Monaca. Info and Summer 2024 River Tour schedule at RiverCircus.com. Please share!

Wednesday, August 21

10 Questions With: Walter Naegle on the Life of Bayard Rustin – 1-2pm. Free online lecture hosted by Road Scholar. A dialogue with Walter Naegle, the surviving partner of Civil Rights Leader Bayard Rustin, who organized the March on Washington in 1963. As an African American and as a gay man, Rustin’s legacy of peaceful and strategic advocacy continues to inspire. Registration and info at RoadScholar.org/Find-An-Ad -

venture/25017/10-Questions-With-WalterNaegle-on-the-Life-of-Bayard-Rustin/dates/.

Thursday, August 22

The Goldmine Within-How to Create a Rich Life Workshop – 7-9pm. Hosted by the Brauer Institute for Holistic Medicine. Part of the Empowered Living Series – The Art of Living Well. Guided Imagery for the Abundant Mind Sound Bath Meditation Workshop. Registration $135 at BrauerInstitute.com/Event/ The-Goldmine-Within/. The Brauer Institute for Holistic Medicine, 300 Mt. Lebanon Blvd, Suite 220. 412-925-0812.

Saturday, August 24

MIG Welding 101: Make Your Own Chain Lamp – 11am-5pm. Hosted by HackPittsburgh. Age 16+, minors must be accompanied. Basic fabrication techniques using a MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welder. Lunch provided. Welding gear and helmets provided. $150/nonmembers, $125/ members. Register and pay at Members.HackPGH.org/Event-5804349. HackPittsburgh, 1936 Fifth Ave. Info at HackPittsburgh.org.

Sunday, August 25

Foundations: Mark Making – 9-10:30am. Online course hosted by London Drawing Group. Part 3 of a 4-part course exploring the fundamental skills of life drawing. A look at utilization of different media and their properties in capturing movement, expression, emotion and action. £20 suggested but pay what you can. Tickets and info at Eventbrite. co.uk/e/Foundations-mark-making-tickets-925808146087.

Tuesday, August 27

Art in Public Spaces: Building Community and Identity – 7-8:30pm. Online event hosted by Atlantic Institute Greenville. Art has the unique poer of transforming spaces, sparking dialogue, and fostering a sense of community. Examine how public art projects around the world have revitalized neighborhoods, reflected cultural values, and addressed social issues. $Free, donations greatly appreciated at Eventbrite. com/e/Art-In-Public-Spaces-Building-Community-And-Identity-Tickets-935727625517. Info at AtlanticInstituteSC.org.

Wednesday, August 28

Tomato School – 5:30-7pm. Hosted by Grow Pittsburgh. Learn to care for your home tomato garden. Take a tour of the Shiloh tomato field and discuss everything from seed selection and transplanting to trellising and pruning, harvesting best practices, pest and disease management. Followed by a taste-test of some favorite varieties. Tickets $10 at Eventbrite.com/e/Tomato-School-Tickets-928469235477. Shiloh Farm, 7211 Thomas Blvd. Info at GrowPittsburgh.org/Events/.

Saturday, August 31

Crawfords Craft & Vendor Show – Saturday 9am-9pm, Sunday Noon-7pm. Hosted by

Connellsville Area Historical Society. Celebrating 50 years of Colonel Crawford’s Cabin. Vendors, entertainment, and Historical Society food at the Spring House. Col. Crawford’s Cabin, Torrance Ave, Connellsville. Info ConnellsvilleHistoricalSociety.com.

21st Annual Monroeville Jazz Festival – 11am10pm. Hosted by Gratzie Ventures and Monroeville Foundation. Free event, free parking, Food trucks, vendors. Artists include Dennis Garner & Tempo Noir, John Shannon, Theron Brown, Roger Barbour, and Norside Organ Trio. Monroeville Community Park, 2399 Tillbrook Rd. Info 412-580-2486.

9th Annual Fayette Concert on the Lawn 2024 – 6-10pm. Hosted by Penn State Fayette, Eberly Campus. Featuring performances by Hollywood Knights: The Bob Seger Experience – inie-piece tribute band. Followed by a fireworks display. Free and open to the public Eberly Campus, 2201 University Dr, Lemont Furnace. Info at 724-430-4271.

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 Ster-

ling 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 – 5:45-6:30pm. Hosted by The Space GBG. Ages 8-15. $15. Registration and info at Sites.Google.com/ TheAlignedMindStudio.com/The-AlignedMind-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 Monday. 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/Reiki-Share-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. May 1st through October 30th. Harmony Acres Dairy, 355 Perryopolis Rd, Belle Vernon. HarmonyAcresDairy.com

THRIVE Carmichaels Community Garden Project Meeting – 6-7pm. 2nd Wednesday. 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 Wednesday. 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 Wednesday. 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/Baby-Loss-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 Wednesday. 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-Reiki-And-Soul-Spa-24. Visions Reiki and Soul Spa, 206 Alexander Ave, Strabane. Evening Yoga in the Garden – 6-9pm. Wednesdays through 25 September. Hosted by West Virginia Botanic Garden. Join us on the event lawn for an all-levels vinyasa flow class. All ages. Tickets $12/$15 members/ nonmembers at FlipCause.com/Secure/ Cause-PDetails/MTg4OTI4. Class pack of 10, $100/$130 members/nonmembers. WV Botanic Garden, 1061 Tyrone Rd, Morgantown, WV. Info WVBG.org.

Thursday

Yoga Classes – 9:30-10:30am. 1st & 2nd Thursdays. 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 Thursday. 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 Friday. 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 Friday. 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 Friday. 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 Saturday. Learn 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.

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 9.

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 9.

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 15.

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 4.

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.

Massage Therapy

WHY KNOT WELLNESS LLC

7500 Brooktree Rd, Wexford 412-501-3239 • WhyKnotWellnessLLC.com

Our massage therapy services focus on people living with a cancer diagnosis past or present, those with chronic illness such as fibromyalgia, anxiety, TMJ/TMD, chronic pain, or migraines, as well as caregivers. We offer oncology massage, therapeutic massage, reiki, scar tissue massage, lymphatic drainage, and spontaneous muscle release technique in our approach to helping you find better health and relaxation. See ad, page 8.

Medical Cannabis

MEDMJ HEALTH

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

Some days there won’t be a song in your heart. Sing anyway.

—Emory Austin

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.

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 18.

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 11.

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 peo-

ple 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 9.

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.

If you ever find yourself in the wrong story, leave.

—Mo Willems

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 23.