Natural Awakenings Pittsburgh January 2023

PITTSBURGH, PA EDITION

Publisher Michelle Dalnoky

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Gratitude

January is Health and Wellness Month, and I recall my own journey when I was in my late 20s and developed Grave’s disease, an autoimmune disorder. The experience compelled me to seek solutions beyond the conventional medical realm and also take a hard look at my mindset. I had just been through a divorce and had few healthy life skills. My family was pretty dysfunctional, so most of my life skills and coping mechanisms came from that environment, and I knew I needed to change things up.

As I read about autoimmune disorders, I realized that stress can contribute to their development. I was under a ton of stress, not handling it very well, and spent a lot of time in the university library researching Grave’s disease. When I got to the other side of my treatment, my next move was to work on my inner self. I read self-help books and sought information that I could apply to evolve into a calmer person. When I went to nursing school a couple of years later there was a free counselor, and I took full advantage of that opportunity to look more deeply into my life and find ways to make it better.

What I learned is that we can make gratitude a part of our daily life by engaging in a formal practice like meditating, writing in a journal, simply training our mind to see gratitude throughout the day or even actively invoking it when things are difficult.

NaturalAwakenings@KnoWEwell.com

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Gratitude is a practice and a decision. I look at it as the proverbial silver lining. Gratitude is easy to find when life is calm and things are smooth, but not so easy to muster when we are struggling or in pain. We can, however, train our hearts and minds to find something to be grateful for even in the worst of circumstances. When I was a hospice nurse, I witnessed people at the end of their lives and families with extreme grief finding something to be grateful for—an easy passing; a love shared; a life well-lived.

I learned a lot from those people, but mostly that gratitude is possibly the most important key there is to happiness, resilience and an overall positive mindset.

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink.

Pittsburgh, PA

Michelle Dalnoky, RN, BA, Publisher

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Brigantia Arts Fair

Thrive on Health will host a Celticthemed Brigantia Arts Fair at 4 p.m., January 29, with Celticthemed poetry, art, entertainment, vendors, vegan food, an Irish dance show, a Brigantia belly dance show by students of Amethyst and a Celtic harp performance by Stephanie Miller. Brigantia was a goddess in Celtic religion of late antiquity identified with the goddesses Minerva, Tyche/Fortuna and Victoria.

Participants can learn Brigantia/Pagan chants and songs with Rev. Diane “Emerald” Bronowicz Egelhoff, from Emerald Earth Interfaith, or meditate at the community Brigantia Altar. There will also be an Irish dance performance and a Brigantia performance by Nina’s Moon Witch Dancers. They might shop for Brigantia healing beads, altar items, art, candles, jewelry and eat Irish-inspired food by Antonio’s Pizzeria and get a tarot reading.

Admission is $8 in advance, $10 at the door. and free for kids. Location:730 Brookline Blvd., Pittsburgh. Get tickets at Tinyurl.com/ BrigantiaTickets.

Lazarus Temporary Closure

Dr.

Janet Lazarus, of Lazarus Biologic Dentistry. is temporarily closing her McKeesport office while transitioning to a new location, effective immediately. For immediate dental needs, patients may call Thomas Family Dental, in Finleyville, at 724-348-7681 or Charleroi, at 724- 4834462.

For more information, Lazarus can be reached at PO Box 194, Ligonier, PA 15658.

News to share?

Email details to: Publisher@NaturalAwakeningsSWPA.com

Submittal deadline is the 10th of the month.

Dr. Janet Lazarus

Joylette Portlock, Ph.D., has been named executive director of Sustainable Pittsburgh as a member of the Transition Advisory Committee on Environment and Energy.

Through Sustainable Pittsburgh and in previous capacities, Portlock has worked on environmental issues at the local, state and federal level, and currently serves on the Allegheny County Board of Health and the Environmental Justice Advisory Board for the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. She was an advisor to Project Drawdown and serves in many other roles.

Nonprofit Project Drawdown has a mission to help the world reach drawdown (bringing emissions to zero, uplifting nature’s carbon cycle and fostering equality for all) and stop catastrophic climate change quickly, safely and equitably.

A New Look at Saturated Fat

For decades, conventional wisdom has been that consuming saturated fat is a surefire way to sabotage cardiovascular health, clog arteries and advance the path to a heart attack. A new paper published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology looked at the relationship between consuming saturated fat and the development of cardiovascular disease by conducting a review of articles published between 2010 and 2021 on the subject. The researchers found there is no scientific ground to demonize saturated fat as a cause of cardiovascular disease, and saturated fat naturally occurring in nutrient-dense foods can be safely included in the diet.

Two Cups of Tea May Avert Early Death

A few cups of black tea a day might help to avoid an early death, a study published in Annals of Internal Medicine suggests. Among nearly half a million adults ranging from 40 to 69 years old, those that consumed two or more cups of tea a day saw a modest, but lower risk for all causes of mortality over a median follow-up of more than 11 years. Participants of the large cohort study, called UK Biobank, self-reported tea intake from 2006 to 2010, while researchers noted mortality from all causes, including cardiovascular disease, ischemic heart disease, stroke and respiratory disease. The researchers concluded that drinking more than two cups of tea per day can be part of a healthy diet.

parkheta/AdobeStock.com

inspiration Welcoming the Unknown

by Marlaina Donato

Ushering in a brand-new year can be filled with hope, but it can also feel as daunting as a blank sheet of paper. We might pause at the threshold with pen in hand, recounting past mistakes and failures, hesitant to make our mark. The unforeseen is like a stranger, easy to mistrust. Dreading the unknown can be a self-sabotaging habit that obstructs the view and keeps us wishing instead of living.

Nature’s great gift is her constancy of seasons, but she thrives on change. Despite the human propensity for clutching what is familiar and predictable, we do best by leaving the door ajar for the unexpected. If we are fortunate, we will have 12 more months to have another go at it.

Setting a place at the table for delight shifts our frequency from resistance to receiving our highest good, and swapping anxiety for excitement can be a spiritual practice during our most uncomfortable moments. Instead of making a resolution, what if we made the simple decision to not believe our fears?

With no concept of limitation or worry of scraped knees, we once learned to walk, happily undiscouraged when we stumbled. That first spark of eager curiosity remains deep in our memory, not confined to

youth. Embracing possibility this year can be a subtle, mantra-in-motion as we go through our days, a cellular willingness to expect an outcome tailored specifically for us. Here are some prompts for embracing possibility:

n On scraps of paper, write down 12 things you have postponed doing or trying and keep them in a special canister. Pull one out each month and follow through with joyful anticipation.

n Witness the sunrise once a week and designate it as an opportunity to open your heart and mind to the new and glorious.

n Change things up in the kitchen: Buy new dishes and donate the old to a local thrift store. Try a new food every week and explore herbs and spices not usually in the cupboard.

n Notice something in your daily surroundings that might have gone unnoticed before.

Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.

THE PERILS OF PLASTIC CLOTHING EMBRACING

SLOW FASHION AND SUSTAINABLE FABRICS

by Sandra Yeyati

Most clothes made today contain plastic. The non-biodegradable polymer is a major component of elastic waistbands and nylon sneakers. But by far, the largest fossil-fuel culprit is polyester, commonly used in shirts, pants, hoodies, dresses, jackets, underwear, socks, blankets and hats, according to Sewport, an online marketplace serving the garment industry.

In 2021, polyester comprised 54 percent of all new fabrics, according to Textile Exchange, a global nonprofit of fashion insiders promoting sustainability. Because it is inexpensive to make, this synthetic fiber is the darling of fast fashion which entices consumers to wear cheap garments a few times, throw them away

and promptly buy replacements. Every year, an estimated 92 million tons of clothing end up in landfills worldwide; and in America, 85 percent of all textiles get discarded, according to Earth.org.

Environmental Costs of Plastic Clothes

Plastic produces greenhouse gases at every stage of its long life— from extraction, refining and manufacturing to transportation and waste management. Researchers have found that washing polyester releases tiny synthetic microfibers into the water supply, harming marine life and contaminating human drinking water. It also breaks down into micro-plastics while languishing in landfills for hundreds of years.

The manufacture of polyester has social costs, too. According to Sewport, the vast majority of producers worldwide exploit uneducated people in impoverished countries, where workers are regularly exposed to highly toxic chemicals.

Recycled Plastic Textiles

Among conscientious environmentalists, there’s an aspirational trend toward textiles made of recycled plastic, such as Econyl. Patagonia promotes NetPlus material made from discarded fishing nets. Repreve transforms reclaimed water bottles into yarn that is used to make various garments. Currently, these eco-friendly textiles make up a tiny fraction of the global market; only 14 percent of all polyester was recycled in 2020.

Textile Exchange and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change’s Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action have launched an initiative to shift the market toward recycled polyester. But even recycled plastic garments shed micro-plastics when washed. Consider using a washing bag like Guppyfriend, which keeps micro-plastics from escaping, or choose items that aren’t washed as often, such as sneakers.

Better Fabric Choices

Made from mushroom mycelium, this textile is a sustainable alternative to animal leather.

“Organic and more sustainable counterparts from almost all types of natural fibers, including cotton, linen, down and wool, are becoming available at retailers across the globe,” says La Rhea Pepper, managing director of the Textile Exchange. Here are notable fabric options that

are kinder to the planet.

LYOCELL: Trademarked as Tencel, lyocell is made from sustainably sourced wood cellulose and used in denim, dress shirts and underwear. Less water and lower-impact chemicals are used in manufacturing this material. It’s biodegradable and easily recycled.

ORGANIC OR RECYCLED COTTON: While conventional cotton is a natural fiber harvested from plants, it consumes an inordinate amount of water and involves the use of toxic chemicals. The better choices are organic cotton certified by the Global Organic Textiles Standards (GOTS), which requires less water and doesn’t use chemicals, or recycled cotton, which repurposes already existing fibers.

PLANT-BASED LEATHER: Companies making these animalfree alternatives using mushrooms, pineapples, bananas, apples, cacti and other vegetables are highly innovative and represent an exciting, emerging sector.

PEACE OR AHIMSA SILK: Silk is biodegradable and requires much less water and chemicals than cotton, but it’s traditionally made by boiling or gassing silkworms. The cruelty-free approach behind peace or Ahimsa silk is that moths are allowed to emerge naturally before their cocoons are harvested. Look for GOTScertified silk to ensure humane manufacturing.

WOOL: Made from the fleece of sheep and other animals, wool is naturally biodegradable, regrows continually and can be harvested without harming animals. Still, industry players have been known to abuse animals, land and workers. Certifiers like the Responsible Wool Standard encourage better stewardship.

ORGANIC LINEN: Made from flax, linen requires little water, is biodegradable, moth-resistant and considered more eco-friendly than cotton.

ORGANIC HEMP: Humans have been harvesting hemp for thousands of years. It’s considered one of the most sustainable fibers because it requires very little water and no toxic chemicals to produce.

Living with the Complexity of Environmentalism

As the annual global textile market nears $ 1 trillion in value, the environmental stakes are enormous, and sustainable choices aren’t always easy to make. Ultimately, it’s the new clothes we don’t buy that will help our planet the most. Vow not to purchase fast fashion. Invest in well-made, longer-lasting clothing. Mend clothes to extend their lives. Shop at secondhand stores. Wash clothing less often to reduce the release of micro-plastics. Choose brands committed to responsible fabrics and transparent labeling.

Sandra Yeyati, J.D., is a professional writer and editor. Reach her at SandraYeyati@gmail.com.

Cooling the Fire Within

HEALTHY EATING TIPS TO EASE CHRONIC INFLAMMATION

by Tom O’Bryan losangelai/Shutterstock.com

Putting more thought into what we eat and why may be among the most important factors in determining how long we live. Researchers in Norway recently compared the long-term effects of a typical Western diet to an optimal one, and their findings can be a source for inspiration. The optimal diet had a substantially higher intake of whole grains, legumes, fish, fruits, vegetables and a handful of nuts, while reducing red and processed meats, sugar-sweetened beverages and refined grains.

According to their results, a sustained change from a typical Western diet to the better plan can make a big difference on life expectancy. Here are their predicted impacts on longevity for people after starting—and sticking to—an optimal diet:

Start at age 20—women add 8.4 to 12.3 years; men add 9.4 to 14.3 years

Start at age 60—women add 6.2 to 9.3 years; men add 6.8 to 10 years

Start at age 80—women and men add 3.4 years

So, it is never too late to start a positive activity.

This improved diet gets to the underlying causes of most of the reasons Americans die. According to the National Institutes of Health, 14 of the top 15 causes of death in 2019 were chronic inflammatory diseases. This means it is more than likely that the cause has existed for a long time under the surface (chronic), with too much inflammation for too long (inflammatory), affecting the brain, cardiovascular system, blood sugar system or wherever there is a genetic weak link (disease). Rather than

ask what the ailment is, ask, “Where is the long-term, hidden inflammation coming from that is fueling this disease?”

Dr. George Slavich, founding director of the Laboratory for Stress Assessment and Research at the University of California in Los Angeles, says that understanding when inflammation promotes either good or poor health and how and when to intervene to reduce inflammation-related disease risk, “should be a top scientific and public priority.” Identifying and reducing individual triggers of inflammation opens a path to regenerating a healthier, younger individual.

Not all inflammation is bad. Time-limited increases in inflammation are critical for promoting wound healing and recovery, as well as reducing the spread of communicable infections. Humans would not have lived very long without a well-developed internal protection from threatening environmental triggers such as bugs, parasites, viruses, mold, fungus and bacteria. For better health outcomes, we need to address excessive systemic inflammation. There are many likely contributors to the fueling of inflammation, but one of the most common sources is what is on the end of our fork. Begin there.

LIFESTYLE HACK 1: If there is one prime directive for better health, it is to focus on living as much of an anti-inflammatory lifestyle as possible. Become more aware of the daily environmental exposures that ramp up inflammatory genes. Know, for example, what chemicals are used on the soil in which the food is grown or sprayed with before it is harvested. Then, armed with this knowledge, choose a better alternative, like organic and regenerative organic foods. As enough anti-inflammatory messages are accumulated, a reversal in the direction of health is possible.

LIFESTYLE HACK 2: Food is the most common source of gasoline on the fire of inflammation. Dr. Deanna Minich, president of the American College of Nutrition, recommends the Rainbow Diet, which acts like a fire extinguisher to put out the excess inflammatory fire in the body. Selecting multiple colors of fruits and vegetables at every meal tempers the inflammatory cascade. Strive over time to eat 50 different fruits or vegetables per week.

Begin today. Just bringing up to awareness the question, “Is this food inflammatory or anti-inflammatory?” will feed our health habits, and over time, healthier habits equal a healthier life.

KnoWEwell Chief Health Officer Dr. Tom O’Bryan, DC, CCN, DACBN, is an internationally recognized expert on gluten, bestselling author and speaker focused on food sensitivities, environmental toxins and the development of autoimmune diseases. He is a chiropractic doctor, certified clinical nutritionist and the founder of TheDr.com

ZUCCHINI PASTA WITH SALMON AND ARTICHOKE

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

6 zucchinis, medium to large, firm and straight, cut into “noodles”

2 lb fresh, wild salmon fillets, skin removed Sea salt and pepper

2 Tbsp high-heat cooking oil (avocado or grapeseed)

3 Tbsp olive oil

4 Tbsp shallots, minced

4 cloves garlic, minced

8 artichoke hearts (in water), quartered

1 lemon, zested and juiced

4 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped Pinch of cayenne

6 slices crumbled, crispy turkey bacon; crispy bacon; or crispy pancetta

Zucchini can be fashioned into noodles one of two ways. For “fettuccine”, use a potato peeler to produce long, flat noodles or lengthwise ribbons. Peel off several from one side, then turn the zucchini and peel off more. Continue to turn and peel away ribbons, until reaching the seeds at the core of the zucchini, which can be discarded. For “spaghetti”, use a spiralizer, mandolin or knife. The spiralizer is the easiest option. With a mandolin, hook up the julienne attachment for perfectly formed noodles. If using a knife, cut the zucchini into thin slices, stack them up and cut again lengthwise into thin strips. Discard the core.

Salt the zucchini noodles, let sit for a few minutes, then massage and squeeze the water out. Drain any excess liquid.

Season the salmon with salt and pepper. In a large pan, heat the avocado oil over medium to high heat. Add the salmon, top sidedown, and sear until golden and crispy, then turn over to finish cooking. Cover only with a splatter screen, or it will not get crispy.

In a wok or large pan over medium heat, add the olive oil and shallots, and cook until soft. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the zucchini noodles, increase the heat to medium-high and cook for 2 minutes. Add the artichokes and lemon zest, stir to combine and cook for 1 minute. Turn off the heat and add the parsley, lemon juice and cayenne; stir to combine. Add the bacon and adjust seasonings to taste.

Distribute evenly on 4 plates or low bowls. Place the salmon on top and serve with extra lemon.

Recipe courtesy of Dr. Tom O’Bryan.

More than Skin Deep

HEALING THE HEARTBREAK

by Lorraine Maita

OF PSORIASIS

Psoriasis affects approximately 3 percent of the U.S. population. According to Dr. Mark Hyman, founder of the Institute of Functional Medicine, the condition involves terrible suffering from scaly, itchy, inflamed and peeling skin; aching joints; burning genitals; broken nails; and the resulting depression that inevitably comes from such conditions—all of which explains why it is often referred to as “the heartbreak of psoriasis.”

The Cleveland Clinic describes psoriasis as an autoimmune condition of the skin. The immune system of people with psoriasis overreacts, causing inflammation and an overly rapid growth of new skin cells, which in turn causes a buildup on the surface that creates the appearance of scaling, but the effects are much more significant than cosmetic.

Psoriasis is associated with psoriatic arthritis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, autoimmune thyroiditis, lymphoma and cardiovascular disease. The National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) describes a link between psoriasis and cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome known as the “march of psoriasis”. Widespread inflammation may cause insulin resistance that triggers cells lining the blood vessels to malfunction, potentially leading to atherosclerosis and heart attack or stroke. The ailment also increases the risk of diabetes, obesity and high cholesterol.

Traditionally, psoriasis is treated with steroids and immunosuppressive drugs that can be harsh on the body and quite expensive while failing to address its root cause. Alternatively, the functional medicine approach is to treat the disease’s underlying causes: inflammation and triggers.

“I have psoriasis,” says Dr. Brad Shook, a chiropractic physician and member of The Institute of Functional Medicine. “I worked hard, and I’ve had my psoriasis and my autoimmunity under control and in remission. Through functional medicine, we can identify these drivers and help you to unwind this process, heal your body and then through that process of healing, you learn what the triggers were.”

PSORIASIS TRIGGERS

Functional medicine practitioners use the acronym STAIN to categorize five triggers that activate inflammation and psoriasis: stress, trauma or toxins, antigens or adverse food reactions, inflammation or infections and nutrition. Removing these triggers allows for healing.

Stress

Psoriatic patients report worsening of symptoms with stress. Modulating the reaction to stress and adding relaxation techniques can calm the inflammatory response. Practicing relaxing activities such as deep belly breathing, yoga, tai chi, prayer, meditation, visualization, Heartmath, massage, acupuncture or biofeedback can relieve stress. Exercise can also release endorphins that reduce pain perception.

Trauma or Toxins

The NPF states that physical trauma can induce the development of psoriatic plaques. Toxins such as smoking and alcohol have been shown to increase the risk and severity of the disease. Obesity may also play a role in worsening symptoms because toxins are stored in fat, which emits inflammatory cytokines. It’s recommended to maintain ideal weight, abstain from smoking and alcohol consumption, and avoid trauma. Detoxifying and removing heavy metals can decrease the inflammatory response, as well.

Antigens or Adverse Food Reactions

Studies show that a Western diet rich in

sugar and fat leads to an imbalance in gut bacteria known as dysbiosis. These harmful bacteria may contribute to psoriasis. Allergens or reactions to food can cause increased intestinal permeability, or leaky gut. The most common triggers tend to be wheat and dairy.

The Chopra Center recommends the 4 R Gut Healing program. Removing foods patients are sensitive to is key to calming down the immune system, as well as avoiding sugar, wheat, dairy and processed foods. To improve the gut, replace digestive enzymes, replenish healthy bacteria with a probiotic and repair the gut lining with butyrate or L glutamine.

Inflammation or Infections

To diminish inflammation, modify the diet to include more anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats found in fish, avocado, nuts, seeds and olives, and fewer inflammatory omega-6 fats found in wheat and dairy. Look for and eradicate hidden infections. Decrease inflammation with a high-quality fish oil, curcumin, probiotics and a whole foods diet free of food sensitivities.

Nutrition

Studies show that having adequate amounts of vitamins A and D, fish oil, probiotics and zinc are important for

maintaining both a healthy gut and a healthy immune response. Supplementation can be helpful in maintaining appropriate levels of these vital nutrients. Some patients using topical vitamin D products found they had effects similar to topical corticosteroids.

“When I started working at the Ultrawellness Center, I learned about how to address the root causes of a problem, not just the symptoms, and have found a new way of approaching psoriasis,” says Adonica Nichols, a psoriasis patient and a licensed practical nurse at the center, in Lenox, Massachusetts. “Living with psoriasis is still an everyday struggle for me, but I have implemented many of these changes in my diet and lifestyle over the past several months, and I am feeling better than I ever have.”

Psoriasis is a multifaceted, complex illness that may require a deeper look at the triggers. A functional medicine physician can offer a systematic approach to uncover and remove these triggers, helping patients heal from the heartbreak of psoriasis.

Board-certified in integrative, anti-aging and internal medicine, Lorraine Maita, MD is an award-winning functional medicine specialist and author in Short Hills, NJ. For more information, visit HowToLiveYounger.com.

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BRAIN POWER BOOSTERS

TIPS TO PRESERVE MEMORY AT ANY AGE

by Sheryl Kraft

Although it is completely normal to feel like our memories are failing us as we get older, this is not the time to panic. Regardless of age, it is always possible to learn, store and recall information, and there are numerous practices we can adopt to nourish and optimize our brains. Whether we’re looking for the car keys in all the wrong places or experiencing way too many tip-of-the-tongue moments, it may be high time to adopt the brain-boosting recommendations by these four experts.

Eating for Cognitive Power

“Having a better memory now and in the future means taking care of your brain and

making the right lifestyle choices to slow down the aging process,” says Annie Fenn, M.D., founder of BrainHealthKitchen.com, who believes that what we choose to eat is one the most significant decisions we make each day.

Foods high in antioxidants like vitamins C and E, beta carotene and selenium have been shown to slow age-related memory loss. Think berries, grapes (which contain resveratrol, a memory-enhancing compound), beets, broccoli, almonds, avocados, carrots, eggs, salmon, onions and dark, leafy greens.

Avoid foods high in saturated and trans fats, which can increase “bad” cholesterol

Tijana/AdobeStock.com

HAVING

~ANNIE FENN, M.D.

and lower “good” cholesterol. Studies find that high cholesterol diets can increase the risk of memory loss, among other cognitive functions.

Whole grains and legumes like cracked wheat, whole-grain couscous and lentils are complex carbohydrates that boost the brain by providing a steady, sustained supply of glucose, and are high in folate, the memory-boosting B vitamin.

Finally, don’t forget to include culinary herbs like curcumin, rosemary, saffron, oregano and mint. They all help support brain health, especially saffron, which contains a potent constituent called crocin that is associated with slowing cognitive decline in human and animal studies.

Brain-Nourishing Supplements and Stress Reduction

Wendy Warner, M.D., the founder of Medicine in Balance, an integrative healthcare practice in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, recommends Ginkgo biloba (one of the oldest living tree species in the world) and ginseng, which have both been found to help enhance memory with their neuroprotective and antioxidant effects. Noting that the brain works best with adequate nourishment, she asserts that these supplements can play a role in increasing blood circulation to the brain, thus improving its function.

Also on her list are Bacopa monnieri for its antioxidant capacity, Rhodiola rosea for its neuroprotective and antioxidant effects and licorice (Glycirrhiza glabra) for its ability to increase circulation in the central nervous system.

Warner recommends regular stress management techniques like yoga, qigong and tai chi as well, noting, “These all help lower inflammation and cortisol (an inflammatory stress hormone) and have been shown to improve memory.”

Medicinal Herbs for Mental Clarity

Heather Houskeeper is a certified herbalist, long-distance hiker and author. When venturing out into the wild, she is able to

spot and identify hundreds of medicinal herbs, including her favorite, top five memory boosters, starting with Ginkgo biloba, as well as:

ROSEMARY (Rosmarinus officinalis) supports healthy blood flow to the brain. It can be enjoyed through food, tea or diffused as aromatherapy.

Slumber Savvy

Insufficient sleep can result in a variety of cognitive problems, including memory loss. Those suffering from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a common sleep disorder condition that affects breathing, should not ignore it.

ASHWAGANDHA (Withania somnifera), traditionally ingested as food or tea, can support mental alertness, focus and clarity of mind. Mix ashwagandha powder with warm milk, hot water or broth.

High-quality sleep is key to reactivating memories, especially recalling the names of people we’ve recently met, according to Northwestern University researchers. Other experts have reported a strong association between sleep and the formation of memories. Strive for uninterrupted and deep sleep, as follows:

n The ideal amount for most adults is between seven and nine hours a night.

n Wind down before bed with a consistent routine like reading, stretching or meditation.

HOLY BASIL (Ocimum tenuiflorum) is rich in antioxidants and supports cerebral circulation. Enjoy this delicious and fragrant herb as tea up to three times per day, use in cooking or take as a tincture.

n Keep the bedroom cool—somewhere around 65° F—and dark.  n Shut off all electronics.

n Avoid late-day caffeine, alcohol and spicy, heavy meals too close to bedtime.

Treating OSA is important to improve both sleep and brain health, says Thomas M. Holland, M.D., of the Rush Institute for Healthy Aging, explaining, “Impaired sleep can lead to biochemical processes that can impact memory and cognition.”

GOTU KOLA (Centella asiatica) is a restorative herb that can support alertness and mental clarity. It is also popularly used as a tea, tincture or extract for up to 14 days at a time.

Sheryl Kraft writes about health and wellness for Sage by Gaia and a variety of print and online media sources. Visit SherylKraft. com and SageByGaia.com to read more of her work.

Milton Mills on Optimizing Health with a Plant-Based Diet

by Julie Marshall

Milton Mills, M.D., practices internal medicine and critical care in underserved communities in Washington, D.C., and Northern Virginia. He advocates switching to a whole-food, plant-based diet and eliminating animalderived dairy. As medical director of the nonprofit Center for a Humane Economy, he is currently leading a national campaign backed by 31 members of Congress to promote the free dissemination of plant-based alternatives to dairy (especially soy milk) in U.S. public schools. An impactful public speaker and preventative healthcare advocate, Mills has co-authored articles dealing with racial bias in federal nutrition policy. He graduated from the Stanford University School of Medicine and completed residency training at the University of California San Francisco, in Fresno, and Georgetown University Hospital, in Washington, D.C.

What prompted you to advise patients to go meatand dairy-free?

I became a vegan in my late teens and that’s what led me to a career in medicine. Some friends in my [Seventh-day Adventist] church were making the switch, and I joined them. What happened was undeniable. I was sleeping better, I had high energy and I felt mentally clear. I wanted to study medicine to learn more about what else a vegan diet could improve.

What kinds of health issues can a vegan diet address?

A plant-based diet can address all of the major health issues. Cardiac disease is clearly shown to be directly related to eating animals

because of saturated fats. There is a reason that patients recovering from heart events are medically advised to eat plants and eliminate meat, fish and poultry. One National Institutes of Health study shows that a vegan diet can even reverse heart disease.

Avoiding dairy addresses breast and prostate cancers, because dairy contains growth-stimulating proteins and hormones which signal growth, but not in a good way. When we are infants, we drink breast milk to stimulate growth, but as adults, dairy signals the growth of tumors, lipomas or cysts. And what is alarming to me is that Black men are twice as likely to die from prostate cancer than white men.

Type 2 diabetes likewise can also be avoided or reversed. I’ve had several patients who have been able to stop needing their medications. From my experience, a vegan diet also addresses autoimmune diseases, rheumatoid arthritis and dementia. Animal protein carries hormones and saturated fats, which is arguably why we are seeing unnatural early puberty in our kids.

for energy. Salads are great, but humans are not rabbits, and we need a variety of good protein sources, such as beans, grains, root vegetables and legumes. Being vegan is like sex, if you aren’t enjoying it, you aren’t doing it correctly.

How is a vegan lifestyle impacted by race, faith and animal welfare?

We know that more than three-quarters of Black people suffer medically from dairy, while our national school lunch program offers zero alternatives to dairy. That’s racial inequity. Growing up as a Black man in society and being constantly dismissed prepared me to not be afraid to be outspoken as an advocate for a plant-based diet. I have learned that as long as I form my opinions on science, ethics and morals, I can defend them without fear or shame.

I thought that I would never be able to change, because my mom made the greatest pork chops. But as soon as I realized that the drive to eat meat is all about habit and is emotion-based, I asked God for help, and he answered. I advise my patients to find help for themselves on how to break their habit, too, rather than toy with it. If you are an alcoholic, do you allow yourself to only drink on some days? It’s also important to realize that we need calories

On faith, if you read the Bible, it literally says humans are built to eat plants, which reaffirms that being vegan is spiritually healthy, too. And when it comes to animals, there is nothing more destructive and harmful to animals and humanity than factory farming. But most people don’t see it because we hide evils behind closed doors. When a creature feels pain and suffering because of humans, I think that comes back to us in different ways, and we all pay the price. But we can stop this type of evil and get ourselves incredibly healthy, too, by choosing to eat plants.

Julie Marshall is a frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine and works for the nonprofit Animal Wellness Action, based in Washington, D.C.

What are the common difficulties of switching to a meatless diet?

END THE MAILING MADNESS

Junk mail is wasteful. In our digital age, email and the internet have become the preferred modes of communication. When a shiny, multipage magazine or catalog arrives in the mail, we must view it as an unsustainable practice and take action to curb it.

SQUANDERED RESOURCES

According to Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ocean Futures Society, “More than 100 million trees are destroyed each year for junk mail plus 28 billion gallons of water and enough energy to power more than 9 million cars! When we stop junk mail and catalogs, we keep trees in the forests doing what they do best—providing oxygen for us to breathe and absorbing CO2 to keep our planet cool and healthy.”

ADDED LANDFILL BURDEN

Junk mail also adds 1 billion pounds of waste to landfills each year. U.S. Postal Service Senior Director of Environmental Affairs and Corporate Sustainability Jennifer

Beiro-Reveille says, “We buy over $392 million worth of products containing recycled material every year and reduce waste by recycling 277,000 tons of material annually,” at more than 4,000 postal paper recycling stations around the country. But the post office cannot control what is being mailed.

WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT

Almost all magazines have an online edition, and companies likely prefer shoppers to visit their websites rather than go to the expense of designing, printing and mailing bulky catalogs that cannot be updated as inventory and prices change. It is usually a simple matter to contact a company by email, phone or even via a website and request the mailings to be stopped. All it takes is a little time and effort to make a big, cumulative difference.

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS

Taking matters a step further, the Ocean Futures Society has partnered with 41Pounds to offer a membership plan (866-417-4141 or 41Pounds.org) to stop junk mail. They will contact 20 to 35 direct mail companies to remove a name from their distribution lists, including almost all credit card applications, coupon mailers and magazine offers, plus specific catalogs.

REGULATORY OPTIONS

The Sierra Club wants to ban junk mail outright, reporting, “An estimated 44 percent of junk mail is thrown away unopened.” Margaret Klein Salamon, founder and director of The Climate Mobilization, likens the idea of banning junk mail to bans on plastic straws. The Netherlands, the United Kingdom and Canada already enforce junk mail restrictions.

Natural Virus Killer Copper can stop a virus

before it starts

By Doug Cornell

Scientists have discovered a natural way to kill germs fast.

Now thousands of people are using it against viruses and bacteria that cause illness.

Colds and many other illnesses start when viruses get in your nose and multiply. If you don’t stop them early, they spread and cause misery.

Hundreds of studies confirm copper kills viruses and bacteria almost instantly just by touch.

That’s why ancient Greeks and Egyptians used copper to purify water and heal wounds. They didn’t know about viruses and bacteria, but now we do.

“The antimicrobial activity of copper is well established.” National Institutes of Health.

Scientists say copper’s high conductance disrupts the electrical balance in a microbe cell and destroys it in seconds.

The EPA recommended hospitals use copper for touch surfaces like faucets and doorknobs. This cut the spread of MRSA and other illnesses by over half, and saved lives.

The strong scientific evidence gave inventor Doug Cornell an idea. He made a smooth copper probe

with a tip to fit in the bottom of the nostril, where viruses collect.

When he felt a tickle in his nose like a cold about to start, he rubbed the copper gently in his nose for 60 seconds.

“It worked!” he exclaimed. “The cold never happened. I used to get 2-3 bad colds every year. Now I use my device whenever I feel a sign I am about to get sick.”

He hasn’t had a cold in 10 years.

Users say:

“It works! I love it!”

“I can’t believe how good my nose feels.”

“Is it supposed to work that fast?”

“One of the best presents ever.”

“Sixteen flights, not a sniffle!”

“Cold sores gone!”

“It saved me last holidays. The kids all got sick, but not me.”

“I am shocked! My sinus cleared, no more headache, no more congestion.”

“Best sleep I’ve had in years!”

After his first success with it, he asked relatives and friends to try it. They all said it worked, so he patented CopperZap® and put it on the market.

Soon hundreds of people had tried it. 99% said copper worked if they used it right away at the first sign of germs, like a tickle in the nose or a scratchy throat.

Longtime users say they haven’t been sick in years. They have less stress, less medical costs, and more time to enjoy life.

Soon people found other things they could use it against.

Colds Flu

Virus variants

Sinus trouble

Cold sores

Fever blisters

Canker sores

Strep throat Night stuffiness

Morning congestion

Nasal drip

Infected sores

Infected wounds Styes Warts Ringworm Other microbial threats

The handle is curved and textured to increase contact. Copper can kill germs picked up on fingers and hands after you touch things other people have touched.

The EPA says copper works just as well when tarnished.

Dr. Bill Keevil led one of the science teams. He placed millions of viruses on a copper surface. “They started to die literally as soon as they touched it.”

CopperZap® is made in the USA of pure copper. It has a 90-day full money back guarantee. Price $79.95. Get $10 off each CopperZap with code NATA34

Go to www.CopperZap.com or call toll-free 1-888-411-6114. Buy once, use forever.

Statements are not intended as product health claims and have not been evaluated by the FDA. Not claimed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

New research: Copper kills viruses in seconds.

FITNESS DELIVERED BENEFITS OF

by Kirby Baldwin

AN IN-HOME PERSONAL TRAINER

It’s a new year—the perfect opportunity to set positive intentions for a fresh start.

One of the most popular New Year’s resolutions is to be healthier, but according to research, only 46 percent of people that set such a goal are successful in keeping it at the six-month mark, largely due to having unrealistic expectations or not keeping track of progress. To detox from the holidays, look and feel better—and stick to a resolution without becoming another statistic—an in-home personal trainer may be the perfect solution.

Benefits of In-Home Personal Training

According to Jenna Scott, of J Scott Wellness, an American Council on Exercise-certified trainer and health coach who has worked as a personal trainer for more than 15 years, “The benefits to in-home training are countless. It takes many of the perceived (or not-so- perceived) obstacles out of the equation. From taking out travel time in our busy day to simply feeling more comfortable in our home, in-home training is a great alternative to the traditional gym.”

Because workouts are individually tailored to each client, they can be more efficient and effective. For those with busy schedules, in-home personal training provides the consistency needed to attain fitness goals with the added benefit of convenience—no commuting to a gym, waiting for equipment or finding child care. It can also be done at any hour of the day, rather than within the confines of a gym’s hours. Some people may be hesitant to go to a gym, and the privacy of working out in the comfort of a living room is a boon for those that feel self-conscious when exercising in a group environment.

The rapport that may develop between a trainer and client can provide the account-

ability and motivation to meet goals, and the gratification that comes from seeing results quickly can reinforce the behavior. It is much more difficult to get into a workout rut when there is another person present, continually customizing the workout program and providing motivation and inspiration.

Casey Mahoney, a busy mom and volunteer who works out with an in-home personal trainer, says, “The main benefits for me of working with an in-home trainer are accountability and comfort. There is something to be said for training in the comfort of your own home. It can also be a time saver! I know I can always find other things to fill my time and not make working out a priority. It is much harder to cancel on someone coming to your house than it is to cancel your trip to the gym!”

An added bonus to seeing quick physical gains is the mental fitness that comes with it;

numerous studies show that exercise causes the brain to release feelgood chemicals (endorphins) that make people feel happier and less stressed. Research also points to exercise as a source of more energy and an immune system boost. Because a personal trainer will take an individual’s health history into consideration—whether it’s a surgery, a physical limitation or the recent birth of a child—in-home personal training is beneficial for all levels of fitness, even beginners.

How to Get Started

According to Scott, “Do your research. Ask where they were certified and what type of insurance they carry. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.” Because a personal relationship is foundational to in-home personal training, it is important to find someone that makes us feel comfortable and motivates and inspires us to achieve goals and create positive changes.

In-home personal training comes at different price points. For those seeking a more affordable option, invite a couple of friends over to the house for a semi-private or small group training session. This format provides all the benefits of inhome personal training at a more accessible cost, with the added benefit of a more social environment.

Leveling up our physical fitness this new year will take dedication and commitment, and adopting an exercise program with the guidance of a personal trainer in the comfort of home may be the perfect strategy to stick to new, healthy habits for the long haul.

Kirby Baldwin is an editor and writer for the KnoWEwell Regenerative Whole Health hub.

Accelerate Healing with Energy.

I help you improve your life through energy healing. Clients have experienced marked improvements in these areas and more:

• Pain, chronic disease, etc.

• Trauma

• Anxiety

• Clarity in relationships

• Unusual challenges

• Emotional/spiritual blockages

Practicing by donation for nearly 10 years. Questions? Call Bill at 770-990-9191 or visit https://www.distancehealer.me

Health in a Smile

A HOLISTIC SOLUTION TO IMPAIRED MOUTH SYNDROME IN CHILDREN

by Brooke Goode

One of the first things we notice when we meet someone is their smile, so it is easy to understand why children with crowded teeth might be self-conscious when they encounter new people. But the condition is not just a cosmetic concern. “Teeth crowding are surface markers of structural chaos below,” says Felix Liao, DDS, author of Your Child’s Best Face: How to Nurture Top Health & Natural Glow. Dental crowding results from a deficiency in jaw growth, which can contribute to a partially stunted face, narrower airway, poor sleep and consequent learning and behavior problems.

According to a recent medical research review, its prevalence among children and adolescents is up to 84 percent. Fortunately, parents can take steps to nurture healthy dental/ facial development in their children so that there is enough room for all 32 teeth to line up straight and for the tongue to operate between the two jaws without occupying the airway.

Crowded teeth are the tip of an iceberg called Impaired Mouth Syndrome (IMS), a term coined by Liao in 2017 for a wide-ranging set of medical, dental and mood problems in children, from sleep and growth disturbance to respiratory infections and poor focus.

According to a 2013 study by the Stanford Sleep Center, “Pediatric obstructive sleep apnea in non-obese children is a disorder of oral facial growth.”

IMS is an all-too-common condition that often goes undiagnosed, untreated or incorrectly treated. The result is a child that falls short of their full genetic potential and an adult that suffers recurring pain and fatigue. An underdeveloped maxilla—the upper jaw that also forms part of the nose and eye socket—can lead to a litany of symptoms, including teeth grinding, a weak chin and jaw pain, and may also impact the appear-

ance of the face, causing imbalanced features. By contrast, a welldeveloped facial structure will support better breathing, sleep and postural alignment, and benefit from high cheekbones and full lips.

“Rarely does managing symptoms result in a healthy child,” says Ben Miraglia, DDS, a board member of the American Academy of Physiological Medicine & Dentistry. IMS symptoms improve when the jaws are activated to grow to their full potential. This is now possible with a partnership between parents and a new breed of dentists known as Airway-centered Mouth Doctors (AMD) that receive specialized training on the syndrome and its treatment.

These specialists work in the realm of whole health, looking at the interconnectedness of the body rather than individual body parts in isolation. They collaborate with other doctors and therapists, including myofunctional therapists that devise exercises for the mouth muscles and encourage nasal breathing. AMDs also work with dietitians to devise a bone-building diet free of the toxins, pollutants and chemicals found in processed foods that can impair normal facial development.

AMDs approach the condition without drugs or surgery, often without having to use braces which can result in a deflated midface. By designing retainer-like oral appliances to be placed over the teeth, they spur the growth and alignment of the jaws to help widen the airway and support sleep.

Mouth structure and jaw alignment are foundational to wholebody health in children, and Liao’s vision for achieving thriving health in kids includes these recommended steps: n Early recognition by parents of IMS red flags in their child, including chapped lips, a weak chin, crooked teeth, dental cavities, disrupted sleep, slumped posture, fatigue, lethargy, hyperactivity and learning or behavior problems n Diagnosis of an impaired mouth by a trained AMD n Complying with AMD guidance, including the use of a professional oral expander appliance n Eating a non-inflammatory, bone-building diet n Following whole health team protocols to align the head, jaws and spine, and integrate mind, body and mouth

Growing the jaws is the groundbreaking solution to crowded teeth in children that parents have been hoping for. A plant will blossom more fully in sunshine than in shadow. The same can be said when it comes to a child’s smile and overall health.

Brooke Goode is the National Editor for KnoWEwell, the Regenerative Whole Health hub.

Hidden Dangers in Pet Food

THE SCARY TRUTH ABOUT TOXIC INGREDIENTS

Among the many reasons to switch from ultra-processed diets to fresh food for our furry family members, unwanted toxins are high on the list. Because pet food manufacturers are not required to conduct quality control testing, consumers never know exactly what toxins their dogs and cats are inadvertently ingesting. According to PetFoodIndustry.com, “Some level of contamination is unavoidable.” Here is a look at the most common toxins found in many popular pet foods.

ARSENIC is used in herbicides, insecticides, wood preservatives and insulation, as well as in chicken feed in factory farms. According to Greg Aldrich, Ph.D., as-

sociate professor and pet food program coordinator at Kansas State University, “The measured presence of arsenic in pet foods does not equate to toxicity for this naturally occurring earth element.” While this may be true, bioaccumulation can do significant damage over time if sublethal doses are consistently consumed. The gastrointestinal tract, liver, kidneys, lungs, blood vessels and skin are most vulnerable to arsenic damage, which interferes with hormones and causes cancer and death. To help pets with elevated arsenic levels, try iodine- and selenium-rich foods, including sea vegetables and Brazil nuts; sulfurous foods like garlic; alpha lipoid acid; and N-acetylcysteine.

MERCURY is released into the air and waterways primarily through burning coal, and seafood is the most common route of exposure. It is best not to feed pets an exclusive diet of fish protein. On the other hand, seafood contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential to a pet’s wellbeing. Consider feeding them low-mercury options like wild-caught salmon, sardines packed in water, mussels or rainbow trout in rotation with other proteins, or supplementing their diet with krill oil or an omega-3 fatty acid that is third-party validated as contaminant-free and sustainably sourced. Mercury detoxification can be achieved by using chlorella and cilantro.

by Karen Becker Monika Wisniewska/Shutterstock.com

POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYL (PCB) and POLYBROMINATED DIPHENYL ETHER (PBDE) are used as fire retardants and can bioaccumulate at high levels in large, predatory fish at the top of the food chain like tuna, tilefish, king mackerel, shark and swordfish. Research suggests that cats are especially sensitive to PBDEs and PCBs found at high levels in both canned and dry pet foods. Although PCBs were banned in the U.S. in 1979, they are still used elsewhere in the world and continue to pollute the oceans. These fat-soluble toxins can be cleared through the bowels, so add fibrous veggies and chlorophyll-containing foods or supplements to the pet bowl.

BISPHENOL A (BPA) is used in plastics and coatings inside pet food cans. It imitates the body’s hormones, especially estrogen, in ways that are damaging to the health of both humans and animals. A 2017 study conducted by researchers at the University of Missouri concluded that

even a short-term (two-week) feeding of canned dog food resulted in a three-fold increase of BPA in dogs. Avoid canned pet foods and #7 plastic food and water bowls and storage bins. Provide ongoing BPA detoxification support by offering foods rich in Lactobacillus acidophilus (kefir and yogurt) and glutathione-rich foods, including culinary and medicinal mushrooms.

DIOXINS, a byproduct of industrial processes, can disrupt the signaling of both male and female sex hormones in the

body. They’re found in much of the U.S. food supply, including factory-produced meat, fish, milk, eggs and butter. Offer pets organic food whenever possible. Because dioxins are fat-soluble, they are stored in adipose tissues. Try the Ayurvedic practice of lipophilic-mediated detoxification, which uses healthy fats, including ghee, coconut and MCT oil, to pull out fatstored toxins.

AFLATOXIN contamination has been the cause of several pet food recalls and major

disease outbreaks for more than 20 years. Known to cause acute toxic illness and cancer, they are naturally occurring mycotoxins produced by fungi in agricultural crops. Corn, peanuts and cottonseed have the highest rate of aflatoxin contamination. Aflatoxicosis is more common in dogs than cats because commercial dog food more often contains corn. Many animal studies demonstrate the efficacy of using ginger, thyme, broccoli, turmeric and carrots for aflatoxin detoxification.

The only way to know exactly what a pet is eating is to buy the ingredients and prepare nutritionally complete meals at home. When choosing a commercial pet food, make sure that it contains human-grade ingredients and that manufacturers employ quality control steps in their operations to test for contaminants.

Veterinarian Karen Becker, DVM, has spent her career empowering animal guardians in making knowledgeable decisions to extend the life and well-being of their animals. For more information, visit DrKarenBecker.com.

Monika Wisniewska/Shutterstock.com

calendar of events

NOTE: Events were accurate at the time the magazine went to press – please call ahead to check for date or time changes. All calendar events must be received by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Review submissions guidelines at NaturalAwakeningsSWPA.com or email Publisher@NaturalAwakeningsSWPA.com for more information.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 1

2023 Polar Bear Plunge – 9:30am. Hosted at the Mon Wharf by WTAE’s Project Bundle-Up. Free event to benefit WTAE-TV’s Project Bundle-Up. Polar Bear Plunge T-Shirts available for $20, and a new long-sleeve shirt for $25. Directions: Go to Wood St, turn towards river at Fort Pitt Blvd and Wood St. Enter Mon Wharf parking area. 412-446-1640.

Icycle Bicycle 2023 – 11am. Hosted by SouthSide Works and Western Pennsylvania Bicycle Club WPW. The Western PA Wheelmen’s annual New Year’s Day ride starts at SouthSide Works near REI around 10:45am. Exact route and distance depends on weather. All are welcome. $5 donation collected for Community Human Services Food Pantry. Helmets required. Sign-in for insurance purposes. Planned route here: RideWithGPS.com/routes/29092849. Group usually grabs a couple of tables at Hofbrauhaus after the ride. Info: WPABikeClub.com.

Dazzling Nights at Pittsburgh Botanic Garden – 5:30-10:30pm. Hosted by Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. Ticket-timed entry sets the stage for this stroll through the light-dazzled gardens – rain or shine. Nosh, nibble, and enjoy seasonal beverages available for purchase. Alternate parking with shuttle at CCAC West Hills Center, 1000 McKee Rd, Oakdale. Tickets $12-25 at Universe.com/ events/dazzling-nights-pittsburgh-tickets-6XN9PK.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4

Seedlings-Winter Wonderland – 1:15-2pm Wednesdays, Jan 4, 11, 18, 25. Hosted by Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. Children 3-6 accompanied by adult. Youth Educators explore a theme each week, from animal tracks, habitats, story time, and free play outdoors. $10/members, $15/non-members (includes one adult). Register at 54238.blackbaudhosting. com/54238/tickets? under Seedlings. 412-444-4464.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 7

Intro to Woodworking-Hardwood Breadboard –9am – Noon. Hosted by HackPittsburgh. Learn basic safe use of woodshop equipment while crafting custom bread board from locally sourced hardwood. Age 18+. Cost includes one month of HackPGH membership. Initial class is group intro to equipment and safety. Members have one month of 24/7 access to complete their projects with guidance or on their own. $150 at Members.HackPGH.org/event-5057534. Instructors have set hours. HackPGH, 1936 Fifth Ave. Owls of the Garden – 11am-Noon. Hosted by West Virginia Botanic Garden and Mountaineer Audubon and Avian Conservation Center of Appalachia. Watch a short presentation then enjoy a walk while searching for wild owls. $Free/members, $15/non-members. Tickets and registration: FlipCause.com/secure/ cause_pdetails/MTYxMzU5. West Virginia Botanic Garden, 1061 Tyrone Rd, Morgantown, WV.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 10

Free Botanical Watercolor Class (Livestreaming) – 6-8pm Central European Time. Noon-2pm EST.

Hosted by Berlin Drawing Room. Create a botanical watercolor painting with step-by-step instruction from Mira O’Brien. Sign up for the Newsletter to receive the Zoom link. BeCreative.BerlinDrawingRoom.Com/ BotanicalWatercolorBDR? Limit of 100 participants. Email from Contact@BerlinDrawingRoom.com will provide login details for the Zoom class.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11

Pittsburgh Aviary Presentation: Hummingbirds –Noon-2pm. Hosted by Monroeville Senior Citizen Center. Enjoy a presentation by Pittsburgh Aviary National Ornithologist Robert Mulvihill on a variety of bird related topics, with a focus on hummingbirds. A Lunch of a 6-inch Turkey Sub, chips, and a brownie included. Tickets $7. Monroeville Senior Citizen Center, 6000 Gateway Campus Blvd, Monroeville. 412-856-7825.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 12

Healing the Root Causes: A Functional Medicine Approach – 7-9pm. In-Person and Virtual event hosted by East End Cooperative Ministry. Dr. David Lobur, MD, Pittsburgh Center for Functional Medicine, provides an overview of functional medicine and describes addressing root causes imbalances on a cellular and skeletal/organ system level. Instead of merely managing disease, Dr. Lobur seeks to optimize wellness by addressing the root causes of health issues. $22/Eventbrite, $28/door. East End Cooperative Ministry, 6140 Station St. 412-361-5549.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 13

Sustainability & Resilience in the Community, Part 2 – Food Systems – 1-2pm. Webinar presented by the PA GreenGov Council and Penn State Sustainability Institute. Learn how Covid and inflation have affected food insecurity issues in PA, and how government and non-profit programs are addressing these challenges. Info@SustainablePittsburgh.org. 412-258-6642.

Fannie: The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer – On stage Jan 13, 14, 15, 16, various times. Hosted by August Wilson African American Cultural Center. Fannie Lou Hammer, baby of the family of sharecroppers with 20 children, worked on plantations most of her adult life. She then joined the Civil Rights Movement and co-founded a political party to advocate for Black rights. Involuntarily sterilized, robbed of her possessions, and beaten in jail, she was not deterred. A powerful play with a cast of one. Tickets $40 at awaacc.org/event/Fannie-The-MusicAnd-Life-Of-Fannie-Lou-Hamer. August Wilson African American Cultural Center, 980 Liberty Ave.

28 Pittsburgh, PA NaturalAwakeningsSWPA.com

SUNDAY, JANUARY 15

The Angel Event – Seatings at 12:30pm and 2:30pm. Hosted by Rev. Rivera, Pittsburgh’s Medium. Receive information, guidance, and messages, as well as physical, emotional, and spiritual healing in this calm, embracing environment. $45. Tickets at eventBrite.com/e/the-angel-event11523-with-2-seatings-12-130p-and-230p-4ptickets-476566121097? 4127 Brownsville Rd.

MONDAY, JANUARY 16

Powerful Words: Language to Build Children’s Self-Esteem – 1-2pm. Free Webinar by Mindspring Mental Health Alliance. In the world of social media, youth feel pressure to live up to unrealistic expectations, leaving them feeling hollow and depressed. Learn how to encourage them and help them to feel positive about themselves. Register: us06Web.Zoom.US/Webinar/Register/1416068330319/WN_Pwcy6W8zQXGpaUZP2AxyRA? MindspringHealth.org.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 18

Starting Vegetable Seeds Indoors – 8:309:30pm. Online event hosted by AbleVeg. Start your vegetable seeds indoors to get a head start on gardening season. Save time and money, and expand the varieties you grow. Master Gardener Laura Koval teaches which seeds to start indoors, when to plant them, and proper growing conditions. End of class Q & A. Tickets $7 at Eventbrite. AbleVeg.com.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 20

Poetry Unplugged: Shock Value – 8-10:30pm. Hosted by August Wilson African American Cultural Center. Poetry Unplugged presents: Shock Value and will return to the main stage for a night of spoken word and music. Celebrating MLK with an evening filled with award-winning artists hosted by Orlando Watson. Stay for the after-party featuring music by Rich Medina beginning at10:30pm. Tickets $48 at AWAACC.org/event/poetry-unpluggedshock-value. August Wilson African American Cultural Center, 980 Liberty Ave. 412-339-1011.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 21

Pittsburgh Opera Presents: Handel’s Ariodante –On stage Jan 21, 24, 27, 29, various times. Hosted by Pittsburgh Opera and CAPA School of Performing Arts. Adriodante is a beautiful opera composed by Frideric Handel in 1735. This will be its first-ever Pittsburgh performance. Tickets $26 to $52 at Opera.CulturalDistrict.org/production/78182. CAPA Theater, 111 9th St.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 22

Winter Yoga, Relaxation & Reflection – 4:306pm. Hosted by West Virginia Botanic Garden. Journaling and guided meditation integrated with slow flowing sequences and postures. $20/ members, $25/non-members. Tickets at FlipCause.com/secure/Cause_pdetails/MTYxMzYw. West Virginia Botanic Garden, 1061 Tyrone Rd, Morgantown, WV.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 25

Focused Tea Tasting: Oolongs – 6-7:30pm. Hosted by the Tea Shoppe at Seneca Center. Learn about Oolong tea, how it is produced, the best way to prepare it, and some of the health benefits. Includes light refreshments. Pre-register at TheTeaShop-

peWV.com/shop/Focused-Tea-Tasting-Oolongs-3. 709 Beechurst Ave, Morgantown, WV.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 27

Candid Camera’s Unmasked Tour with Peter Funt – 7-9pm. Hosted by Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. Candid Camera is the only show to have produced new episodes in 8 different decades. Allen Funt debuted the show in 1948 and son Peter Funt had a season on TVLand in 2014. Peter mixes clips, quips, and behind-the-scenes- tales with topical humor, blends in audience participation and special surprises to create a night of great fun. Tickets $26/$36 at TrustArts.org/Production/83335/performance/83335/ seat_selection. Byham Theater, 101 6th St.

plan ahead

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5

savethe date

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5

Snow Moon Soul Fest at Visions Reiki and Soul Spa – 10am-4pm. Hosted by Visions Reiki and Soul Spa. Enjoy a variety of energy healing experiences, workshops, speakers, and vendors at this one-day soul festival. Tickets $35 at Eventbrite.com/e/snow-moon-soul-fest-at-Visions-Reiki-and-Soul-Spa-Tickets. Visions Reiki and Soul Spa, 206 Alexander Ave, Strabane.

ongoing events sunday

Hatha I Yoga – 10-10:45am. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

Thai Cooking Class – 1-2:30pm or 3:30-5pm one Sunday/month thru May. Hosted by Thai Me Up. Learn to make quick, simple, delicious food at home. 10 students/class. $50. Register by calling 412-488-8893 or go to Thai Me Up, 118 S 23rd St.

Hatha I Yoga – 7-7:45pm. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

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.

monday

Hatha I Yoga – 10-11am and 6:30-7:30pm. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

1 Hood Power Hour – 7-8pm. A virtual forum hosted by 1 Hood Power to discuss all things political in SWPA and beyond. A virtual public affairs

forum featuring elected officials, policymakers and thought leaders. 617-517-7600. Facebook. com/1HoodPower.

tuesday

Hatha I Yoga – 8:45-9:30am. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

Sensory Friendly Afternoon – 1-5pm. Second Tuesdays monthly thru Nov 2023. Hosted by Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. Individuals with autism spectrum disorders and sensory issues enjoy a comfortable and accepting museum experience Lights and sounds are adjusted, there are designated quiet areas, and sensory kits with noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, and fidgets are available. Regular rates of admission apply. Info, PittsburghKids.org/visit/accessibility. Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, 10 Children’s Way.

Beginners Yoga – 7:30-7:45pm. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga. org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

wednesday

Hatha I Yoga – 1-1:45pm. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

Yoga for Balance and Harmony – 1-1:45pm. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434. Mid-Week Reset – 7-7:45pm. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga. org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

Yoga and Sound Bath – 7-8:15pm. 1st Wed. With Susannah Azzaro. $25. Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh, 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

THRIVE Carmichaels Community Garden Project Meeting – 6-7pm every 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.

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.

Hatha I Yoga – 10-10:45am. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

Movement and Breath Meditation – 1-1:45pm. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

Hatha II Yoga – 6-6:45pm. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online

for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

friday

Hatha II Yoga – 8:45-9:30am. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga. org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

Hatha I Yoga – 10-10:45am. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

First Friday Walk/Hike – 10-11:30am. 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.

Friday Family Walk – 10am-Noon. Hosted by West Virginia Botanic Garden. First Friday of every month. 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.

saturday

Hatha I Yoga – 10-10:45am. Hosted by Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh (HIP) Yoga. Register online for drop-in and membership rates. HIPYoga.org. 300 Beverly Rd. 412-344-7434.

All-Levels Vinyasa Flow with Sarah – 10-11am. 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.

Hygge Hykes with Forbes State Forest – 10amNoon, 2nd Sat thru Feb. Hosted by Forbes State Forest. Hygge (pronounced Hoo-Gah) is the Danish principle, feeling, and lifestyle that encompasses wellness, comfort, and coziness. Hygge Hykes take place on the 2nd Saturday of the month through February. The activity is free but registration is required. Location will be revealed upon registration. 724-238-1200. RMahony@pa.gov.

Morgantown WV Indoor Farmer’s/Grower’s Winter Market – 10am-Noon. Select Saturdays thru April 15. Monongalia County Center, 270 Mylan Park Ln, Morgantown, WV. Info at MorgantownFarmersMarket.org/markets.html.

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 – Noon2pm, 2nd Sat of the month. 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.

community resource guide

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.

APOTHECARY

MURRAY AVENUE APOTHECARY

Susan Merenstein, RPH, Holistic Clinical Pharmacist

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

A Compounding Pharmacy Boutique, Pittsburgh's Pet Pharmacy, and home to LabNaturals CBD. We offer holistic health services—hormone balancing and consultation, pharmacist picked supplements, detox, nutritional counseling, absorbable acetylated and palmitated Glutathione products, and pharmacist- compounded CBD products for people and pets. We are a very specialized compounding only pharmacy and we compound anything that is not one-size-fits-all. Check us out online today. See ad, page 11.

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 6.

FUNCTIONAL HEALTH PHARMACY

SUSAN MERENSTEIN, BSPHARM, RPH, HOLISTIC CLINICAL PHARMACIST

4227A Murray Ave, Pittsburgh 412-421-4996 • LabNaturals.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. See ad, page 27.

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 6.

HEALTH FOOD

THE KEFIR CHICKS

Connellsville, PA

TheKefirChicks.com TheKefirChicks@gmail.com Facebook.com/TheKefirChicks

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 8.

HERBS

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.

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.

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! See ad, page 23.

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.

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.

30 Pittsburgh, PA NaturalAwakeningsSWPA.com

If you’re brave enough to say goodbye, life will reward you with a new hello.

~Paulo Coehlo

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 11.

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. See ad, page 3.

VISIONS REIKI AND SOUL SPA

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

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

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.

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

THE HIMALAYAN INSTITUTE OF PITTSBURGH 300 Beverly Rd, Pittsburgh 412-344-7434 • HipYoga.org

The Himalayan Institute of Pittsburgh is committed to creating and supporting programs for wellness in body, mind and spirit. Their purpose is to promote personal peace and global unity. Offering a daily schedule of yoga and meditation classes and healing services including massage, reiki and Ayurvedic health consultations. They are a leader in education, providing authentic yoga and Ayurveda certification programs. See ad, page 9.

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.

PRODUCTS

McCORMICK FAMILY FARM – 100% grass-fed/finished beef, pasture-raised chicken, and pure maple syrup following beyond organic, regenerative farming practices. 293 McCormic Rd, Portage, PA. 814-472-7259. Facebook: @ TheMcCormickFamilyFarm.

SERVICES

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