Natural Awakenings Metro Phoenix & Northern Arizona, May 2022 Edition by Natural Awakenings Metro Phoenix & Northern Arizona

EE R F

DEEP MOTHERING

NURTURING LIFE IN ALL ITS FORMS

FORGING AHEAD IN CHALLENGING TIMES HOW TO GROW A VEGGIE CONTAINER GARDEN

WAYS TO STOP CATS FROM KILLING BIRDS

May 2022 | Metro Phoenix & Northern Arizona Edition | NaturalAZ.com

Metro Phoenix & Northern Arizona Edition

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Contents

Natural Awakenings is a family of 50+ healthy living magazines celebrating 27 years of providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources we all need to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

13 WOMEN

We Are Stronger Together

14 RESILIENT MOTHERING How Moms Are Forging Ahead in a Changing World

17 MOTHERING THE WORLD 18 EASY CONTAINER GARDENING

How to Grow Edibles in Pots and Planters

20 INTERMITTENT FASTING BASICS

How to Improve Health by Eating Less Often

23 BREATHE WELL, SLEEP WELL, FEEL WELL 24 FENDING OFF FIBROIDS Natural Approaches Offer Relief

26 THE BLENDED FAMILY

Tips for Creating a Successful Stepfamily

28 STAYING HYDRATED ADVERTISING & SUBMISSIONS HOW TO ADVERTISE To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please email PhoenixAds@NaturalAZ.com. Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month.

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Go to NaturalAZ.com/pages/contact to inquire about editorial opportunities. Deadline for editorial: the 10th of the month.

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It's Not Just About Drinking Water

30 SAVING BIRDS FROM CATS

Simple Strategies to Protect Feathered Friends

32 JEFFREY BLAND

on Rejuvenating Our Immune System

DEPARTMENTS 10 health briefs 11 global briefs 12 business spotlight 17 inspiration 18 green living 20 conscious eating 24 healing ways

26 28 30 32 34 36 37 38

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HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

letter from publisher

The Hunter

PHOENIX & NORTHERN ARIZONA EDITION PUBLISHER Tracy Patterson, BSc, MES DESIGN & PRODUCTION Vegetorium, LLC COPY EDITOR Sara Gurgen DIGITAL PLATFORMS Hass Solutions Locable

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he pet article on page 30 in this month’s edition comes as no surprise to me, as my youth seemed like a never-ending task of trying to rescue birds and other creatures from our cats. And we had a lot of cats over the years, all of which were rescues. Some showed up on our doorstep and never left, some were rescued from not-so-great situations, and one mother cat and her kittens were found in the field at the end of our block in a cage. The cats on our street were all indoor-outdoor cats, and they were definitely all hunters even though they were well fed. Our cats often didn’t actually eat their prey—more like they just terrorized their victims and then killed them and left them as “presents” for us. Mice, gophers and an array of poor birds came to a grizzled end in the claws of our beloved felines; and in some ways, since we didn’t always see them in action, I don’t think we really believed that they’d done these awful deeds. Of course, I was always much happier when I was able to do a rescue mission. For example, I was in the basement one day and felt as though I was being watched. I was being watched, by a bird sitting on our toolbox, brought in by one of our cats, but not harmed (yet). I managed to get him out, and he flew off—one saved! Then there were the many, many waxwing birds that would arrive every winter to eat the berries on the tree right outside our dining room window. Invariably, two or three birds would hit the window during this time, and if I heard the “thud,” I would go tearing outside to collect the bird before one of our cats got there, and believe me, they were never far behind. Any bird that I was able to rescue was placed in an orange box that I kept in the garage specifically for this purpose. The birds were typically just stunned and needed some time in a quiet, dark place so they could recover and fly off once I could see that they were ready. Since cats are one generation from being wild, it stands to reason that their hunting instincts are fine-tuned. It also seems in some ways a rather cruel endeavor to keep them indoors 24/7. I haven’t had cats for years now, but I can imagine it’s a rather controversial point in neighborhoods. I have feelings on both sides; however, with the number of domestic (and feral) cats today, the research showing the impact of cats on bird populations, and my love for wild birds, I would definitely lean toward the indoor-outdoor patio option, plus getting kitty used to a harness for “walks” and perhaps car rides and traveling for some variety.

Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please contact us to find a location near you. 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.

DEADLINE REMINDER! Please note that all deadlines (advertising and editorial) are the 10th of the month prior to the edition being published. For example, May 10 is the deadline for all June edition submissions.

Natural Awakenings Magazine is ranked 5th Nationally in CISION’S® 2016 Top 10 Health & Fitness Magazines

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May 2022

health briefs

The 17.6 million Americans living within one kilometer of one of the country’s 100,000 hydraulic fracturing (fracking) facilities face a higher risk of heart problems, cancer and respiratory disease, recent research suggests. In the latest study from Harvard, statisticians found that living near or downwind from a fracking site contributes to earlier death among elderly people. Combining the Medicare records of 15 million people over age 65 with zip codes of fracking wells, they found that the closer to the wells people lived, the greater their risk of premature mortality. Those that lived closest had a statistically significant elevated mortality risk (2.5 percent higher) compared with those that didn’t live close by, and those living downwind faced a higher risk of premature death than those upwind. The results suggest that airborne contaminants emitted by the wells are contributing to the increased mortality, the researchers write.

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Try Tai Chi to Boost Neurological Health With its slow, rhythmic, controlled movements and synchronized, deep breathing, the ancient Chinese practice of tai chi has been shown to improve balance, reduce falls and enhance the quality of life for people with neurological challenges such as strokes, Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis. A meta-review of 24 studies by researchers at the University of North Texas Health Science Center concluded that tai chi may be able to reduce pro-inflammatory contributors to cellular activity, increase anti-inflammatory cytokines that help regulate immune response, decrease oxidative stress factors and increase neurotrophic factors regulating neural health. Researchers pointed to its “potential effectiveness in neurorehabilitation,” which aims to improve the functions and well-being of people with diseases, trauma or disorders of the nervous system. NaturalAZ.com

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Avoid Living Near a Fracking Facility

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A popular staple since ancient times, prunes have long been esteemed for their culinary, nutritional and medicinal purposes, and a new review of research has found that they can also help counter the bone loss linked to fragility in postmenopausal women. After reviewing 28 studies, Penn State University researchers reported in the journal Advances in Nutrition that eating five to 10 prunes each day can help prevent or delay bone loss, lowering the risk of fractures. In one study, women that ate 100 grams of prunes (about 10) per day for one year experienced improved bone mineral density in their forearms and lower spines. In another study, eating five to 10 prunes a day for six months was shown to prevent bone density loss and decrease TRAP-5b, a bone-loss marker. The nutritional benefits of prunes, including minerals, vitamin K, phenolic compounds and dietary fiber, may reduce the inflammation and oxidative stress that contribute to bone loss, said the authors. In a separate study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Harvard Medical School researchers that studied 1,700 older adults for 12 years found that those that ate a highly pro-inflammatory diet rich in simple carbohydrates and saturated fats were more than twice as likely to develop fragility—increasing the risk of falls, hospitalization and death—as those eating the least amount of those sweet, fatty foods.

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Eat Prunes and Anti-Inflammatory Food to Reduce Bone Loss and Fragility

global briefs

Crispy Critters

Prescription Problem

Pharmaceutical Pollution is Out of Control

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Western Megadrought

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Surge Continues A megadrought is a dry spell that lasts for more than 20 years, and the Southwestern U.S. endured the worst occurrence since at least 800 A.D. in the period from 2000 to 2021. So says research based on evidence embedded in tree rings from 1,600 sites in the North American West published in the journal Nature Climate Change. University of California-Los Angeles climate scientist and lead author Park Williams says, “The results are really concerning, because it’s showing that the drought conditions we are facing now are substantially worse because of climate change ... but there is quite a bit of room for drought conditions to get worse.” Temperatures in the Southwest have averaged 1.6 degrees higher since 2000, and the megadrought has depleted California’s reservoirs, shrunken the Utah Great Salt Lake to record lows and fueled destructive wildfires. University of Michigan climate scientist Julie Cole, not involved in the research, says it shows how temperature can make more of a difference than precipitation alone when it comes to prolonging a drought. “The air is basically more capable of pulling the water out of the soil, out of vegetation, out of crops, out of forests, and it makes for drought conditions to be much more extreme.” Unless climate change is mitigated, there is no end in sight.

A new study by the University of York, “Pharmaceutical Pollution of the World’s Rivers,” in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, has determined that pharmaceutical drugs polluting the world’s rivers pose “a global threat to environmental and human health.” Research leader Dr. John Wilkinson says, “What we know now is that even the most modern, efficient wastewater treatment plants aren’t completely capable of degrading these compounds before they end up in rivers or lakes.” Biologically active compounds cause harm to wildlife such as the feminization of fish, and the presence of antibiotics in the environment increases the risk of drug resistance. The survey sampled 258 rivers in 104 countries and more than a quarter were regarded as unsafe for aquatic organisms. The most extensive global study to date found that the most polluted rivers were in Bolivia, Pakistan and Ethiopia. In the U.S., Dallas ranked in the top 20 percent. Those in the Amazon rainforest, Iceland and Norway had the least amounts of pharmaceutical pollution. Wilkinson advises, “The World Health Organization and UN and other organizations say antimicrobial resistance is the single greatest threat to humanity; it’s a next pandemic.”

May 2022

business spotlight

Feng Shui 81 The Power to Change Your Life Through Your Environment by Lori Thomas

What is feng shui?

Feng shui, the ancient Chinese art of object placement, is used to create balance and success energy in an environment. While in America, feng shui is still a relatively new concept, virtually all banks and commercial buildings in China adhere to the principles of feng shui. There are many different types of energies. Feng shui identifies those energy centers, then works to enhance those centers. For instance, there exists a center for helpful people, which includes clients. Through the use of feng shui, the client center would be enhanced to draw in more clients.

When do people use feng shui?

I work with clients who have had misfortunes, or they moved into a home where a space clearing was needed. All memories hold energy from previous occupants. This can be corrected! Some clients have me work with their architects during the building process.

What can cause a problem as it relates to feng shui?

Stairways in the wrong location of the home can cause ups and downs in relationships, health and finances. Fireplaces in the wrong location can cause one’s finances or even health to burn up, or cause friction in relationships. Forceful energies, such as long hallways, can cause mishaps.

What objects are used to make energy corrections? Plants, lights, water features, and metal wind chimes.

Lori Thomas is a feng shui instructor/practitioner who is passionate to help others create a better flow in their lives to promote good health, harmonious relationships, abundance and so much more. As she says, “When you have a gentle flow in your home, then life works with you instead of against you.” Thomas offers fundraiser workshops, classes and private sessions. Many of her clients are from out of state, so they send her floorplans and pictures. Once a design analysis is complete, Thomas sends a written report. For more information or to make an appointment, call 480-370-3310 or visit FengShui81.com. See ad, page 31. Advertorial 12

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WOMEN

We Are Stronger Together

by Kathleen Gould and Madalyn Johnson

hroughout history, women have traditionally been the caretakers and nurturers within their families and communities, and although men can of course do this too, it has been our role as mothers, daughters and sisters for many thousands of years. Herbalism is such a natural part of our lives as women, if we will open ourselves up and allow it to come in. We are coming back to our remembering that herbs and plants are alive, and everything alive has a spirit. The spirit of these plant beings came in that form with the purpose of healing us. We are remembering that herbs are our birthright. Our ancestors grew these healing herbs in their backyards or went out into the wild and found these beautiful healing plants to heal their families or people in their communities. They have always made infusions (teas) and foods with the plants to help keep themselves and their loved ones radiantly healthy. We are seeing a huge rebirth of women coming together again in circles across the country to learn together, make medicines together, and share knowledge with one another. We are remembering the difference between competition and community, and are now choosing to share our knowledge openly and lovingly so everyone can grow and benefit from it. There is a strong feminine energy bursting forth on the planet. Thousands of

new herbalists are awakening to this “art of herbal healing” every day. They are out in nature harvesting and making beautiful herbal medicines, teas, salves, lip balms, creams, lotions and potions from nature’s pure and healing plants, and they are lovingly offering these gifts to humanity. What a beautiful time to be alive! One wonderful way to explore herbs is to share information with like-minded women. Many groups are formed around the moon cycle. Start a group on or near a new moon and invite in those friends who could benefit or enhance an herbal moon circle. Encourage everyone to bring a tea they like, or a particular product they’ve made or found that has benefitted them, or maybe an ounce or two of their “favorite” herb, and start playing with tastes and let your senses, and intuition, guide you. Once the conversation starts, you will be amazed at how much you can learn from others and what new discoveries can be made. Two minds are always better than one! Another fun way to do a women’s herbal gathering is to concentrate on one herb. One participant could do a short “report” on the benefits of that particular plant, and then you could start playing with it. Make a tea—remember 1 teaspoon of herb to one 8-ounce cup of water. Bring recipes to share using that herb. Let’s talk about chamomile as an example. Try it as a

tea, then add a touch of honey and see how that tastes. If these women are mothers, try making chamomile popsicles—a fun way to get herbs into our kiddos (or add a shot of vodka to this liquid and now you have an adult version). Simply make a nice, strong tea; sweeten it with your sweetener of choice; pour into popsicle molds; and freeze overnight. These are a fun and delicious treat before bedtime and calms them for a good night’s sleep. Chamomile tea can be used as the liquid in many muffin recipes, such as blueberry muffins—adds that bit of medicine into a favorite treat. In today’s world, a very popular way to share and explore herbs with other women is to join a social media herbal group. There are many. You might have to weed out a few before you find your “tribe,” but they can be an abundant source of good information for those who enjoy this type of community. If you are a planner, planning a local herb walk for your interested herby friends is a wonderful way to be together and learn from each other. Meet up at a local walking path and start exploring the world around you. Be sure to take a book or two with you on local plants to help you identify what you might be seeing. Sit with the plants and feel their energy, show gratitude for their healing powers, and breathe in their essence. Women have a sacred bond with other women, one of trust. Healing botanicals will help you rediscover that bond and the magic of being a woman. Kathleen Gould, registered herbalist, and Madalyn Johnson are proprietors of SW Herb Madalyn Johnson (left) and Shop and Kathleen Gould (right) Gathering Place. Gould has been an herbalist for 30-plus years and has extensive experience in herbal medicine. For more information, call 480-694-9931, or visit SWHerb.com or Store. SWHerb.com. See ad, inside back cover. Advertorial

May 2022

Resilient Mothering How Moms Are Forging Ahead in a Changing World

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by Carrie Jackson

wo years after “coronavirus” became a household word, the pandemic continues to affect every aspect of our lives. Mothers, in particular, have learned to reimagine what it means to be a parent, employee, partner and friend, while still finding time for themselves. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, almost 70 percent of mothers say that worry and stress from the pandemic have damaged their mental health. While social distancing, quarantining, remote learning and masking quickly became a new and often unwelcome normal, positive shifts have also been developing. Already resilient mothers are exploring how to adapt to an ever-changing situation and learning when to hold on and when to let go. They are discovering new ways to be available for their children’s mental health, maintain their jobs, stay connected with other moms and prioritize self-care. Shae Marcus, publisher of Natural Awakenings South Jersey (NASouthJersey.com), says that the pandemic has brought a number of unforeseen silver linings. As a single mother of two

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young children, she has been in a constant state of transition the last two years and is starting to achieve greater balance. “Like most other mothers, my life before the pandemic was nonstop. I was getting by, and at the same time comparing myself to other parents. The world had to slow down so I could catch up, and I’ve been forced to stop, breathe and take it in stride,” she says. Marcus shares a common concern, that the isolation has affected her kids’ development. “I worry that the lack of social integration over the past two years will have a lasting impact on my children. My son, who is now in third grade, was in kindergarten the last time he had a full year in a ‘normal’ school setting. That’s a lot to miss out on. While he is academically on track, I’m concerned about him being mature enough. Having sports and other extracurricular activities starting back now is helping to get them integrated again, and I’m able to fully appreciate going to an outdoor spring football game that wasn’t able to happen for so long,” she says. Marcus has discovered that working from home has had advantages. “Now, I can do a load of laundry in-between meetings, go

to the grocery store when I would have been commuting and be more present when my kids are home. Since I’m not worried about rushing out the door, we have time to talk during breakfast, and I’m able to accompany them to the bus stop. Afterwards, I take 10 minutes for myself to walk around the block and gather my thoughts for the day,” she explains.

Reordering Priorities Seventy-one percent of mothers describe being a working mom during the pandemic as very challenging, according to research done by the global consultancy group APCO Impact. As president of Families and Work Institute (FamiliesAndWork.org), a New York-based research nonprofit, Ellen Galinsky has seen employers grant access to a wider variety of benefits that fit their employees’ individual and family needs. “The pandemic, coupled with racial reckoning, has made many of us rethink our priorities. It now is becoming clear that the world that seemed relatively normal before wasn’t working. Mothers and fathers were thrust on the front lines of schooling and saw firsthand how different teaching and parenting are,” Galinsky notes. An estimated 82 percent of employers plan to allow their employees to keep working remotely after the pandemic, reports a survey by human resources consultancy Mercer, but that turnaround is just a first step, says Galinsky. “Studies show that having workplace flexibility procedures in place is a floor, but how employers treat you

when you need that flexibility matters the most. The pandemic made us all experience collective and multiple losses together and brought some difficult issues to light,” she explains. In juggling work and life duties, Galinsky shies away from the word “balance”, which suggests that time and energy needs to be split evenly. “Work and home lives are deeply intermingled, and often when one is in sync, the other will follow,” she says. “It’s important for mothers to set realistic expectations for themselves and let go of the notion that they’re not doing a good job, their kids have to be perfect or they don’t have time to take care of themselves. Children will absorb what they see, so being mindful in your words and actions around work will have an impact on them. If you have a stressful meeting and bring that home with you, the energy in the house will change. It’s okay to tell the kids that you’re upset at your boss and are going to call a friend and talk or go for a walk; let them know it’s not their fault and that parents get stressed, too.”

Stress Survival Skills The pandemic also put many mothers in a chronic state of hypervigilance, because they not only had to manage their own anxiety, but also help kids manage their experiences. A University of Rochester study of 153 mothers of toddlers found that ongoing strains can disrupt the body’s natural stress response, making it more difficult to respond with patience and sensitivity to a child’s needs. Elizabeth Cohen, a clinical psychologist and director

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of the Center for CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) in New York City (CenterForCBTInNYC.com), says that a shock to the nervous system can only be released with the acknowledgement that the trauma is being experienced in the first place. “Having an understanding of how you’re responding to this stress and uncertainty is key to moving through it. Even going back to the office after so long may trigger a panic attack if the trauma of the past two years isn’t addressed,” she says. “Mothers need to practice compassionate awareness for themselves and what they’ve gone through. They need to be seen, heard and witnessed in the same way their children are.” Cohen advises that while part of a mother’s job is to make kids feel emotionally safe, it’s not as effective if they are themselves depleted. She recommends adopting simple, actionable practices throughout the day to help restore and reset the mind and body, suggesting, “Put some Epsom salt in the bottom of the tub and allow your feet to soak for a few minutes during a shower. Before brushing your teeth, take three deep breaths and pay attention to where you might be feeling tension in your body. Keep a gratitude journal handy to reflect and record your observations and interactions.” She advises us to remember that we have all had different experiences of this trauma, and nobody is the same as they were in 2019. “It’s okay to tell a friend, ‘I’m excited to see you and also, I’m uncomfortable not wearing a mask.’ We’ve also had to be more selective about who we spend time with, and that has allowed us to foster more nurturing relationships,” she says. “Be more discerning about who you spend time with, instead of saying yes to every invitation to get coffee. It’s okay to do less, and making authentic decisions in the moment will help you truly feel aligned with your thoughts and actions.”

Joint Healing Claire Zulkey, a Chicago-based writer and mother of two young boys, has found creative ways to stay connected with other mothers and not feel so isolated. She pens a newsletter, Evil Witches (EvilWitches. substack.com), which gives her a platform to share stories of everyday motherhood 16

triumphs and concerns. Topics have included perimenopause, end-of-life options for the family pet, finding the best hand lotion and other subjects that mothers in her circle think about. She also maintains a Facebook group of 100-plus mothers, providing a safe place for members to commiserate and support each other. “The group has allowed me to really get to know mothers in a more intimate way, truly understand what they’re going through and appreciate how much they care about their kids,” says Zulkey. She made a personal decision to stop drinking a few months into the pandemic, a lifestyle choice that she has maintained for the past year. “While I was not an alcoholic, there were too many times when I would wake up with a hangover or get into a tipsy argument with my husband. I quickly learned to appreciate how much easier

parenting is when I’m in a stable mood, and the entire household has benefited, especially during the pandemic, when we were in such close quarters,” she says. For all of us, moving forward after two years of collective grief, loss and uncertainty will undoubtedly present new unforeseen challenges, yet maintaining a sense of perspective can help if things start to feel overwhelming. “At the start of the pandemic, I started to feel sorry for myself, but soon I realized that I actually was so much better off than a lot of people. Once I oriented myself with that reality, it was easier for me to move on with a sense of gratitude and desire to help others,” says Zulkey. Carrie Jackson is an Evanston, IL-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine. Connect at CarrieJacksonWrites.com.

SELF-CARE FOR STRESSED-OUT MOMS For mothers trying to juggle it all, making their own mental health a priority is key. Here are some practical ways busy moms can incorporate their overall wellness into a daily routine. Set Up Self-Care: Sneaking in breaks throughout the day can have a positive cumulative effect. Follow a guided meditation while waiting for soccer practice, use essential oils in the car, keep a favorite lotion next to the bed or savor a favorite nourishing snack. Cultivate a Network: Nurturing relationships with supportive peers can provide emotional and social support. Meet a friend for a morning coffee or afternoon walk, join a book club, host a potluck with other mothers or volunteer with a community group. Prioritize Therapy: The right therapist can provide an unbiased and supportive perspective and help process new and lingering issues. Find a practitioner that understands a mom’s unique needs and a modality that resonates with us. Traditional talk therapy works well for some, but be open to exploring other forms, such as movement therapy or art therapy. Keep Communication Open: Modeling and encouraging dialogue gives kids a safe space to practice sharing and lets everyone feel valued. Find time during car rides, at the dinner table or before bed to check in with the family and share each other’s thoughts. Take a Class: Learning a new skill can spark creativity and help build a social network. Try a pottery workshop, join a dance club, take a photography class or study a foreign language just for fun.

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inspiration

Mothering the World

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by Marlaina Donato

ll that is brought to fruition has someone behind the scenes tending to its innate potential. The quality of nurturing permeates both the human and the natural world and goes much deeper than raising beloved offspring. Whether it be a wellbalanced child, a verdant backyard garden or the premiere performance of a symphony, tending to what we love can yield great things. Equally rewarding, nourishing what we find challenging or uncomfortable can deepen our human experience. “Every blade of grass has its angel that bends over it and whispers, ‘Grow, grow,’” states the Talmud, and we, too, can be angels. Whether or not we are inborn nourishers, every day we have simple opportunities to refine this beautiful impulse. We flex the “mother muscle”

whenever we acknowledge someone else’s accomplishments, welcome a new neighbor or heat a bowl of soup for a loved one after a long day. We can nourish community when we pick up trash along a hiking trail, whip up a sweet treat for the local bake sale, invite friends for a potluck supper or offer a helping hand at a local food pantry. The smallest gestures—smiling at a stranger, giving or asking someone for a hug or saying “I’m sorry”—don’t require time, money or effort, yet exemplify spiritual generosity which is the nucleus of all nurturing. We also cannot forget ourselves. Too often, we place our most fervent callings last, shuffling our sources of joy to the back of the line because there aren’t enough hours in the day. When we starve our talents and interests, lock down our emotions and neglect our spiritual needs, we become energetically malnourished, and from this famished core, have little from which to draw. Sometimes we are so invested in mothering the well-being of others that we forget to do the same for ourselves. It is not selfish to tend to our own potential to thrive. It is a beautiful necessity, and we are worth it. Marlaina Donato is a mind-body-spirit author, composer and artist. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.

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May 2022

green living

EASY CONTAINER GARDENING HOW TO GROW EDIBLES IN POTS AND PLANTERS

ontainer gardening offers something for everyone, from beginners to seasoned green thumbs. Growing vegetables, flowers and herbs in pots can be cost-effective, inspiring and tailored for any urban balcony or country patio. The perks of planting in pots include a reduced risk of disease spreading from one crop to another, fewer critters helping themselves to a free lunch, and less weeding and overall work. For urban garden expert Mark Ridsdill Smith, in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, tending to plants has provided a sense of community. “When I lived in London, I knew almost no one on my street after 10 years, but when I started growing food by the front door, I was constantly chatting to passersby as I tended my tomatoes and squash,” says the author of The Vertical Veg Guide to Container Gardening, who also enjoys the practical side of making connections: swapping seeds, gifting produce and exchanging advice.

Fertile Foundations Vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, squash, radishes and beans are ideal for container gardens, and with a little know-how, other crops like watermelon and muskmelon can also thrive. “Many types of vegetables can be grown in pots if they are large enough to accommodate the root system, even potatoes,” says Lisa Hilgenberg, horticulturist at the Chicago Botanic Garden’s four-acre Regenstein Fruit & Vegetable Garden, in Glencoe, Illinois. Choosing pots with the right size and materials is an investment worth making, she notes. “Peppers and tomatoes prefer terra cotta pots. Many herbs thrive when root-bound and do well in smallish pots or grouped together in shallow bowls. Plants need18

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ing to climb can be trained to grow on a trellis placed in a container.” Melinda Myers, the Milwaukee-based author of Small Space Gardening and more than 20 gardening books, encourages gardeners to think outside the box. “Repurposing items is another way to add fun and plantable space. I have seen old teapots, coffee makers, washtubs, coolers and more converted into planters.” For the wellmeaning, but sometimes absent-minded gardener, she recommends self-watering pots to reduce maintenance. “These containers have a water reservoir you keep filled. Water moves from the reservoir into the soil, so you need to water less often.”

Generational Nourishment Using high-quality potting soil is paramount and can be store-bought or made at home for less by combining pH-fostering

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by Maya Whitman

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peat moss, vermiculite and perlite. Plants started from seed are more nourishing for both people and the planet. “Some seeds thrive most when sown directly in the soil, and cilantro is one of them, as are all root vegetables, as well as beans and peas. Other seeds, like tomato and ground cherry, are best started indoors. Some seeds, like kale and basil, thrive either way,” explains Petra PageMann, co-owner of Fruition Seeds, an organic seed company in Naples, New York, that specializes in open-pollinated heirlooms and offers free online tutorials. Seeds can easily be saved for future plantings from crops such as beans, peas, cilantro, dill, sunflower and cosmos. “No one can save seeds better adapted to your garden than you,” she says. Children are prime candidates for container gardening, especially in cities. Smith muses, “Children get to smell and feel the whole plant—the extraordinary smell of tomato leaves, the bristles on zucchini—and they love getting their hands into the compost. I’ve witnessed children who rarely eat salad demolish a whole tray of fresh pea shoots in minutes!” For young gardeners, he recommends growing “pea shoots, new potatoes (they love digging them up), herbs like mint (to play with and make drinks and potions), alpine strawberries and sorrel.” Even gardeners with conventional suburban or country plots may find that container crops come in handy. “For those with plenty of garden space, it is a way to bring the garden to your back or front door,” says Myers. “Keeping pots of herbs and veggies close to the house makes harvesting and using fresh herbs and vegetables easier. I have 11 acres, but still use containers to test new plants and bring the garden to my front and back doors.” Page-Mann attests to willingness and possibility when she says, “Seeds, again and again, remind me that our imagination is the limit, that regional adaptation is the language of resilience and that we can grow so much more than we think possible.” Maya Whitman writes about natural health and living a more beautiful life. Connect at Ekstasis28@gmail.com.

POT GARDENING TIPS FROM THE PROS FROM MELINDA MYERS, AUTHOR OF SMALL SPACE GARDENING: Mulch the containers. Covering the soil with an organic mulch like evergreen needles and shredded leaves helps conserve moisture and suppress weeds until the plants cover the soil surface. Use a slow-release, eco-friendly fertilizer. Incorporate it into pots at planting and if needed, make a second application mid-season. It’s a lot easier than applying a fastrelease product every week or two. Incorporate organic wool pellets into the potting mix to reduce watering up to 25 percent and add air space, nutrients and organic matter to the soil. Tips on Types of Pots: Terra cotta pots are heavy and tend to dry out faster. Glazed ceramic pots hold water for long periods and are available in a variety of shapes and colors. Both should be moved indoors for the winter. Plastic pots come in a variety of colors, are lightweight and can often be left outdoors. Fiberglass is lightweight, pricey and designed to be left outdoors year-round. Metal is usually not a problem for northern gardeners and are quite trendy. For more information on galvanized steel safety, visit Seeds_for_Thought64596.pdf (ucanr.edu). FROM LISA HILGENBERG, CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN HORTICULTURIST: Climbing plants: Growing plants vertically is a great way to save space and add an architectural aesthetic to a container kitchen garden. Select a trellis to accommodate the type of climber. Peas and beans climb using tendrils that grow best around a thin fishing line netting; they won’t stay secure to an iron trellis. Some vining plants need help climbing, so they will need to be tied onto bamboo poles. Melons: The minimum diameter container is 12 inches for watermelon, provided it’s a smaller stature, bush-type cultivar. Generally, watermelons produce two melons per plant if they are provided with highly fertile, well-drained soils. Muskmelons can be trellised in pots. Apply organic fertilizer three times during the melon plant’s growth: when the vines begin to run, when the first flowers appear and after the first harvest. FROM AUTHOR MARK RIDSDILL SMITH: Seasonal favorites: Spring: new potatoes, kale, mangetout snow peas (edible pods) Summer: tomatoes, chilies, climbing French beans, Japanese wineberry Fall: arugula, kale, chard, apples

May 2022

conscious eating

Intermittent Fasting Basics HOW TO IMPROVE HEALTH BY EATING LESS OFTEN

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by Sheila Julson

asting has been part of religious and cultural practices since ancient times, but now it is entering into everyday American eating habits. Intermittent fasting (IF), which involves restraining from eating for periods ranging from hours to days, was the most popular dietary strategy among Americans in 2020, outpacing low-fat keto diets and “clean eating”, reports the International Food Information Council. About 10 percent of survey respondents reported that they were following IF diet procedures, usually for weight loss and better health. “Intermittent fasting is a lifestyle,” says Jerron Hill, an anesthesiologist, in Plano, Texas, who has practiced it for two years and found himself with more energy. “Many metabolic syndromes and diseases can be avoided by making IF a way of life.” Research on the health benefits of IF is ongoing, but Hill says that advantages include stabilized blood sugar levels, because insulin

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levels rise after eating meals. “In a fasted state, insulin levels fall, blood sugar stabilizes and fat stores can be utilized as a source of energy,” he says. Other benefits he cites include lowered blood pressure, decreased low-density lipoprotein, or “bad” LDL cholesterol, and lower triglycerides There are several IF methods. The 16/8 method is most popular and involves fasting for 16 hours and eating within an eight-hour window each day. The 5:2 plan is for those that would rather fast twice a week and eat regularly the other five days. Another method known as OMAD involves eating one meal a day. While most IF models do not restrict specific foods, they encourage the consumption of nourishing, satiating, whole foods. Snacking is discouraged.

Women’s Fasting Needs Differ “In the United States, 90 percent of Americans are metabolically

unhealthy. Fasting is one of many strategies that can help people improve their metabolic health. That translates to being a healthy weight and having balanced hormones,” says Cynthia Thurlow, a nurse practitioner in Washington, D.C., and founder of the Everyday Wellness Project, an online subscription plan. Her new book, Intermittent Fasting Transformation, integrates IF with women’s hormonal needs during every stage of life. “Women need to fast differently,” Thurlow emphasizes. “A woman in peak childbearing years under age 35 has to account and fast for her menstrual cycle, meaning her body is much more sensitive to macronutrient depletion or changes than a menopausal woman. Younger women need to limit fasting if they are already lean. They need to avoid fasting five to seven days prior to their menstrual cycle and remain attuned to messages their bodies send them in response to sleep, stress, nutrition and exercise.” In general, once women reach menopause, they experience less hormonal fluctuation and thus more flexibility to fast on a daily basis, she says, although they, too, should keep an eye on their experiences with sleep, stress, nutrition and exercise.

Planning for Success The word “fasting” often conjures up thoughts of hunger and starvation, but proper planning will leave us full and satisfied while practicing IF. “When you’re eating a balanced diet and not necessarily following a particular fad or specific type of diet, you can enjoy nourishing meals without restrictions and still practice IF,” says lifestyle coach Laura Fuentes, of Madisonville, Louisiana, author of the e-book Intermittent Fasting for Women. Fuentes recommends starting with the 16/8 model, because approximately half of the 16-hour fasting time is spent sleeping. “There’s also downtime in the evening while you’re preparing to sleep. In the morning, most of us are getting ready for work or getting kids off to school, and we don’t eat right away. Those hours are generally not focused on food.” When it’s time to eat, fasts should be broken with satiating, nutritious food, not a light snack. The first meal of the day should be nutritious, with protein and healthy fats. Breaking a fast with just an apple, or carrots and hummus, will lead to hunger and eventual snacking. A common misnomer is that we must eat ketogenic or lowcarb diets while practicing IF. While carbs need to be considered, Thurlow emphasizes eating nutrient-dense, whole foods and fewer processed foods, whether they are part of keto, paleo, omnivore or vegetarian diets. Some people practice “clean” fasting by consuming only water, black tea or other calorie-free beverages during the fasting time. Others prefer “dirty” fasting and might consume a handful of grapes, walnuts or other foods or beverages containing less than 50 calories during the fast. “I like patients to understand the value of a clean fast,” Thurlow says. “People might think 50 calories doesn’t count, but that is food, and that does break a fast.” Sheila Julson is a Milwaukee-based freelance writer and contributor to Natural Awakenings magazines throughout the country. May 2022

MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN FARRO BOWLS

Tzatziki Sauce 1 cucumber 1 garlic clove 1 cup plain yogurt ½ tsp salt ½ tsp lemon juice ¼ tsp dried dill

Rinse and drain farro, then place it in a pot with salt and enough water to cover. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes. Drain any excess water.

photo courtesy of Laura Fuentes

½ red onion, sliced 1 cup tzatziki sauce, purchased ready-made or prepared from the following recipe ½ cup crumbled feta cheese Lemon wedges, for serving Fresh dill and parsley for garnish (optional)

2 medium sweet potatoes, cubed 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips Olive oil ½ tsp salt ½ tsp garlic powder Black pepper to taste 6 cups arugula, baby spinach or green blend 4 strips bacon, cooked and coarsely chopped 4 eggs 1 avocado, peeled and sliced Preheat the oven to 400° F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the sweet potato and bell pepper onto the baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with salt, garlic powder and black pepper. Toss to combine. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender when poked with a fork. Remove from oven and set aside.

In a gallonSpray a non-stick pan and cook eggs sunny side-up over size zip bag, medium heat. Assemble the salads by placing a large handful combine of greens in each bowl and topping with roasted veggies, fried chicken egg, bacon pieces and avocado slices. breasts, olive oil, lemon zest, Recipe courtesy of Laura Fuentes. lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt and pepper. Marinate for four hours or overnight. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat, add the chicken breasts into the skillet and cook for 7 minutes, flip and continue to cook for another 5 to 7 minutes until the internal temperature has reached 165° F. Discard marinade. Remove chicken from pan and wait 5 minutes before slicing. To assemble the bowls, place a bed of farro at the bottom of the bowl. Top with sliced chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, tzatziki sauce and feta cheese. Sprinkle with parsley and dill and serve with lemon wedges. Tzatziki sauce: Line a large bowl with a mesh strainer, place a paper towel into the strainer. Use a grater to grate the cucumber and garlic clove. Transfer to the strainer to remove the excess moisture. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cucumber, garlic, yogurt, salt, lemon juice and dill. Stir to combine and refrigerate for an hour before serving. Recipe courtesy of Laura Fuentes. 22

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photo courtesy of Laura Fuentes

1 cup cooked farro 3 cups water or stock ½ tsp salt 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2 large breasts) 3 Tbsp olive oil Zest of 1 lemon 2 Tbsp lemon juice 2 cloves garlic, grated 1 tsp dried oregano ½ tsp kosher salt ¼ tsp black pepper 1 Tbsp olive oil 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved 2 cups chopped cucumber 1 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

HEALTHY BREAKFAST SALAD

Breathe Well, Sleep Well, Feel Well photo courtesy of Laura Fuentes

by Ingo Mahn

photo courtesy of Laura Fuentes

The consequences of elevated cortisol levels.

rom the moment This relatively unknown we take our first condition is estimated to breath, our mouth affect almost 50 percent of is instrumental in providAmerican adults, and can ing us with the nutrients range from a mild version required to survive and known as upper airway thrive. You are not only resistance syndrome to what you eat, but how you full-blown sleep apnea. eat, sleep and breathe. In many cases, there is There are a number of not enough room for the conditions in your mouth tongue (due to an underA jaw-expanding appliance. that, if undiagnosed, can developed upper jaw), and adversely affect both your as a result, it is forced back health and well-being. In the past, holistic into the airway. Imagine being suffocated by dentists have generally focused on problems your own tongue—your body literally fightsuch as mercury-releasing amalgam fillings ing to stay alive! Sleeping should be a time of and infected/toxic root canals. There is, healing and regenerating, instead your body however, an overlooked condition known is in a state of “fight or flight.” Cortisol levels as sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) that rise; you wake up tired; gain unhealthy is the root cause of many common health weight; and suffer from systemic inflammaproblems, such as: tion, lower immunity and poor sleep. • High blood pressure Signs that you may be affected by SDB • Chronic fatigue and brain fog include snoring, clenching/grinding your • Unexplained weight gain teeth, painful jaw joints, and waking up tired. • Susceptibility to colds, flus and infections Problems of the airway tend to fall into • Anxiety and/or depression a sort of medical “no man’s” land. Few • Aches and pains in the jaw, neck and back dentists or doctors are adequately trained to

diagnose or treat this condition. Fortunately, medical and dental professionals are now becoming much more aware of this all-too-common issue. This is especially true in dentistry. Many signs and symptoms are first seen in the oral cavity, and many dentists have advanced imaging that allows for visualization of the airway in 3D. Unfortunately though, most current therapies, such as CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) or dental appliances that pull the lower jaw forward, only offer a Band-Aid solution. The good news? There is an alternative treatment that addresses the root cause of the problem. Wearing a retainer-like epigenetic appliance (which has the ability to stimulate stem cells and bone growth) for eight hours at night can actually expand the upper jaw. As a result, there is more room for the tongue and more room for air to flow freely. Often, underlying conditions may also be contributing to a restricted airway. In those cases, other practitioners, such as myofunctional therapists; chiropractors; allergists; or ear, nose and throat specialists, are needed in order to achieve optimal health. Imagine waking up refreshed and having enough energy to tackle the day ahead. Your best assurance to feeling well is to make sure your airway is structurally fit to support your whole body health.

3D CT imaging of a compromised airway.

Dr. Ingo Mahn is a 1985 graduate of Marquette University School of Dentistry and has a doctorate in integrative medicine. He is the founder of Natural Dental Partners, in Phoenix, and the author of A Breath of Health, which can be downloaded for free at ABreathOfHealth.com. For more information or to make an appointment, call 602922-7852 or visit ABreathOfHealth.com. See ad, pages 5 and 15. Advertorial May 2022

healing ways

Fending Off Fibroids NATURAL APPROACHES OFFER RELIEF

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by Marlaina Donato

ptimal reproductive health is key to our vitality, which is why living with uterine fibroids can be debilitating. Studies indicate that as many as 80 percent of American women develop these non-cancerous growths during their childbearing years. Oftentimes, the condition is free of symptoms, but an estimated 26 million women currently suffer from associated effects like chronic pelvic and back pain, frequent urination, excessive menstrual bleeding and a swollen abdomen. Also called myomas, fibroids can often be a hidden cause of infertility, even in asymptomatic cases. Asian women have a lower incidence of fibroids, while African American women are two to three times more likely to develop them than white women, particularly at a younger age. Genetics, obesity, estrogen-promoting foods and environmental toxins can fuel the fire of this condition, but a tailored, natural approach can minimize symptoms and for some, ward off the need for invasive surgery.

Happier Hormones Through Diet While there is no definitively known cause of fibroids, the most accepted theory is a disruption in the ratio between estrogen and progesterone. Italian researchers that examined data from 1990 to 2020 reported in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health last year that diets deficient in fresh fruits, green vegetables and vitamin D increase the risk for the onset and formation of uterine fibroids. “I do believe prevention is important by avoiding the use of toxic cosmetics and cookware with chemical components, and by choosing lower-inflammatory foods,” says Crystal Fedele, a doctor of Chinese medicine who treats patients with acupuncture and Chinese herbs 24

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at her clinic, Holistic Women and Families Natural Health Center, in Port Orange, Florida. Conventionally farmed produce and farm-raised fish are treated with environmental estrogens to stimulate growth, which in turn contribute to estrogen dominance and an increased risk of fibroids in women that consume such foods. “It’s important to eliminate dairy and meat raised with synthetic hormones that can act like estrogen in the body,” advises Alisa Vitti, a New York City-based women’s hormone expert and author of In the FLO: Unlock Your Hormonal Advantage and Revolutionize Your Life. “While no diet can guarantee fibroid prevention, altering the food you eat may help slow fibroid growth. When it comes to food, your first step is to remove inflammatory foods.” Vitti recommends opting for fiber-rich whole grains that aid in the elimination

of excess estrogen, as well as nixing gluten and all dairy products unless they are made from organic goat or sheep milk. “High insulin levels from white, starchy stuff—which acts like sugar in the body—is a factor in making fibroids grow,” she says. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, kale and bok choy are allies in the fight against fibroids by boosting detoxifying enzymes in the liver. Regular servings of sweet potatoes, carrots, apricots, pumpkin, spinach and other carotene-rich foods are also valuable.

Ancient Healing Modalities Traditional Chinese Medicine offers promising benefits, but when using recommended herbs, it’s important to seek out qualified practitioners rather than self-treat, advises Fedele. “In Chinese medicine, each case is individual, so herbal formulations are often constructed to treat the whole health of the person and modified as we see improvements,” she says. “We also use a lot of supplements that can help regulate hormones—DIM (diindolylmethane) and broccoli seed extract being two that are commonly used for estrogen-related disorders.” Fedele also recommends acupuncture, but says it is most effective when combined with herbals, supplements and dietary therapies. Susannah Neal, a licensed acupuncturist in Iowa City, Iowa, concurs, saying, “Chinese medicine is highly effective for rebalancing the flow or energy and breaking up old patterns of imbalances.” Neal, certified in the Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy, attests to this gentle modality designed to invigorate the circulatory, lymphatic and nervous systems of the digestive and reproductive organs. “Fibroids may be a result of impaired blood flow in the uterus, and while many styles of massage use techniques to improve circulation, these techniques

FOODS TO CONSUME FOR ACHIEVING HORMONE BALANCE Almonds and hazelnuts

Organic wheat germ

Arugula

Radish

Cold-water, deep-sea fish: salmon, tuna, herring, halibut, mackerel, sardines

Reishi mushrooms

Garlic Green tea

Turnips Vitamin E, vitamin B complex, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids Watercress

focus specifically on the reproductive and pelvic organs,” she says. According to Neal, one benefit of the Arvigo technique is regulation of the menstrual cycle. When applied regularly, the massage may reduce the size and severity of fibroids. In cases of larger, chronic or more severe fibroids, she says that three to six months of treatment or longer may be required, and in some cases will be used only as adjunctive treatment along with therapies prescribed by a medical doctor. No matter which alternative approach is taken, monitoring progress is key. Fedele says, “I usually suggest six months to a year of trying holistic options under the care of a licensed provider and then at that time re-evaluating the scenario.” Marlaina Donato is an author and multimedia artist. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.

STRATEGIES TO STAVE OFF FIBROIDS FROM HORMONE EXPERT AND AUTHOR ALISA VITTI: Eat to balance estrogen. Prioritize foods that help modulate and balance estrogen, like flax seeds, beans and whole grains. Pears and apples are liver-supporting foods that contain lots of fiber, along with a flavonoid named phloretin, which impairs tumor growth. Be mindful of alcohol and caffeine consumption. Just a couple of glasses of wine significantly raises estrogen levels. Coffee suppresses ovulation, thereby suppressing production of progesterone and increasing the likelihood of estrogen dominance. Organic, unprocessed soy in the form of tempeh and miso can be beneficial, with an anti-estrogenic effect on the uterus. Balance the microbiome. The microbiome contains a colony of bacteria that helps metabolize estrogen. When the good and bad bugs in the microbiome are out of balance, the estrobolome can’t do its job efficiently, and estrogen builds up. Another key to building and maintaining a healthy microbiome is supplementing with a high-quality probiotic.

Cut out the chemicals. Many chemical-free options are less expensive than conventional products, especially when bought in bulk. Use baking soda and vinegar to clean around the house. Refrain from treating the lawn with chemicals. Replace plastic food storage containers with glass and stainless steel options which last a lifetime and don’t leach harmful agents into comestibles. Opt for a shower curtain made of less-toxic materials than plastic. FROM ACUPUNCTURIST SUSANNAH NEAL: Fibroids that are smaller than two centimeters will respond more quickly to treatment and may only require the use of one or two modalities, such as monthly, professional, abdominal massage; self-care massage at home; and herbal medicine prescribed by a licensed herbalist for three months. Larger, more chronic and severe fibroids may require multiple modalities and a longer course of treatment in addition to these measures, including weekly acupuncture sessions and dietary recommendations. Three to six months of treatment may be required. Natural medicine understands and respects that each person’s ability and time required to heal is complex and must be individualized. May 2022

healthy kids

The Blended Family TIPS FOR CREATING A SUCCESSFUL STEPFAMILY by Ronica O’Hara

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Go slow and steady. It can take two to four years for a blended family to adjust to living together, counsels the American Psychological Association. The process can be particularly hard for youngsters from 10 to 14. “Don’t pressure the children. If they don’t want to call you Mom or Dad, don’t take it personally. They have their own biological parent whom they love, and they didn’t ask for their parents to get divorced. Stay positive and realize that time itself is an important factor,” counsels Rabbi Shlomo Slatkin, a licensed clinical professional counselor, in Baltimore, and founder, with his wife, Rivka, of TheMarriageRestorationProject.com.

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he Brady Bunch aside, blended families seldom look like TV sitcoms. They often come with a cast of characters—freshly remarried parents, a number of kids and step-kids, up to four sets of relatives and exes in the wings—all with their own needs, hopes and issues. One in six children today lives in a blended family, so the stakes are high for their wellbeing, and yet, understandably, two out of three blended marriages fail. They don’t have to, says Kimberly King, a children’s book author in Fairfield, Connecticut, who was raised in blended families and as a parent, now has her own blended batch of kids. “Blended families work when parents plan for challenges, have space for disagreements and have an incredible amount of patience and love. But they are not for the faint of heart!" she says. Therapists and blended-family veterans offer advice for those on this important journey:

Determine discipline roles. “My husband and I thought we were total failures because we couldn’t agree on how to parent his son. To save our marriage, we agreed that I would ‘resign’ as the boy’s mother and allow my husband free rein to parent as he saw fit,” recalls Nancy Landrum, a relationship coach in Murrieta, California, and author of Stepping TwoGether: Building a Strong Stepfamily. Studies show that blended families work best when each parent disciplines his or her own child, while the stepparent works to develop affectionate bonds with their stepchild and serves as the child’s sounding board, particularly in the beginning. “One of the worst things you can do as a stepparent is talk negatively about your stepchild to the bio-parent. Nothing will strain a relationship more quickly,” says King. Keep an eye out for turning points. In a classic 1999 study in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, University of Iowa researchers reported on factors they called “turning points” that can knit a blended family together. These include celebrating holidays and special events together, perhaps by creating new rituals; spending quality time together, even doing such ordinary things as shopping or watching a football game, either as a family or as a parent-stepchild activity; and pulling together over a family crisis. On the other hand, unresolved conflict among parents and children drives families apart. “The best thing my dad did to blend our post-divorce, new family was take us on a four-day hike to Mount Washington,” recalls King. “We hiked, talked, helped each other, suffered, whined, got wet, struggled, laughed, slipped, learned campfire songs, slept in bunks and found a new respect for teamwork, nature, overcoming adversity, and our stepmother!”

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Give talking a chance. Over shared meals, board games, nature hikes and everyday activities, stepfamilies can build bonds with each other. Having regular meetings to hash out problems also strengthens a new family unit. King’s family uses the summer camp strategy of the talking stick. “When you have the talking stick, it is your turn to talk and everyone else has to pay attention and listen. No interruptions,” she says. They also keep a family journal in which kids can write out their problems, enabling parents to respond in writing or conversation.

DEEP TALKING

Deepening the Dialogue When the going gets tough in a blended family, an Oprah Winfrey-endorsed dialogue technique known as Imago Therapy can help transform animosity into harmony. As laid out by relationship therapist Harville Hendrix in his New York Times bestseller Getting the Love You Want, it involves specific conversational steps that ensure each side is heard and responded to with empathy. “Imago is effective for parents of blended families because it teaches them to listen and validate the feelings of the children, as well as to better communicate with each other about the challenges,” says Rabbi Shlomo Slatkin, of Baltimore, whose own marriage was saved by the process and who, with his wife Rivka, teaches it to couples. “If your children are not adjusting well, it is important to be able to give them a voice. The Imago dialogue process does just that, without judgment.” The three basic steps include: Mirroring. Person number one describes the problem in a few sentences, using “I” and feeling words. For example, “I feel shut out when you pick up your phone when I’m talking.” Person number two repeats it back as closely as possible. “You feel shut out when I pick up my phone when you’re talking.” It may take a few attempts to get it right. Person number two then asks if there’s more to that feeling, and again repeats the phrases back. Validating. Person number two responds showing respect for the problem, with words like, “I can see why …” Showing Empathy. Person number two searches for the place inside himself or herself that connects with person number one’s concerns. “I get upset, too, when it feels like someone cuts off a conversation.” Then, they reverse positions and go through it again. Demonstrations can be found on YouTube and worksheets can be viewed at PositivePsychology.com/imago-therapy.

Don’t give up. “For me, the time I knew it was going to work forever was actually directly after one of our lowest points,” says Brooke Carlock Lobaugh, of Lititz, Pennsylvania, a teacher and creator of TheBlendedMess.com, an online resource for stepfamilies. “We had separated, and we just both really missed each other and missed the family, and we realized that the kids would eventually get older and our problems would lessen, and that we needed to choose each other, over and over again. I realized that if our separation led to another divorce, I would either be alone or find someone new with a new set of problems, and I wanted to fix the problems with the person I loved. We haven’t looked back since.” Health and wellness writer Ronica O’Hara can be contacted at OHaraRonica@gmail.com. May 2022

fit body

Staying Hydrated IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT DRINKING WATER by Sandra Yeyati

aintaining proper hydration is one of the most important measures we can take to benefit our health. “The human body is made up of 55 to 75 percent water, and proper fluid levels are essential for many important body functions, including nutrient and oxygen transportation, temperature regulation, blood pressure stabilization, removal of waste from the body and muscle repair,” says Josh Axe, a Nashville-based clinical nutritionist and doctor of chiropractic and natural medicine. “Drinking enough water allows for healthy digestion and detoxification, supports hunger control and improves the appearance of your skin, eyes and hair.” Throughout the day, our bodies expend liquid to perform these vital functions. “Dehydration occurs when you lose more bodily fluids than you consume,” says Axe, the author of Ancient Remedies and founder of DrAxe.com. “Your body needs water and electrolytes replenished, otherwise you’ll experience symptoms such as dry mouth, thirst, muscle weakness and spasms, headache, dizziness, nausea and fatigue.” “How we live today is why we’re so much more dehydrated than we were 30 to 50 years ago,” says Dana Cohen, a New York City integrative medicine physician and co-author of Quench. “Air conditioning and heating are so drying. Electronics, prescription drugs, processed foods, fluorescent lighting—all these things coming at us and affecting our cells—are sucking the hydration out of our environments and out of us.” According to Cohen—the risks of day-in-day-out, low-grade dehydration—the kind most of us experience—include constipation, joint pain, stiffness, brain fog and cognition problems. “There’s some evidence that it is also a risk factor for diabetes, Alzheimer’s and certain cancers like colon and kidney cancers,” she adds.

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How to Hydrate Optimum hydration is more nuanced than simply drinking eight to 10 eight-ounce glasses of water a day. It depends on our body size, age, diet and level of physical activity or exposure to hot temperatures, Axe says. He recommends more fluids for women that are pregnant or breastfeeding, teenagers that are developing quickly and people on medications like antibiotics, diuretics, hormone pills, blood pressure medications and cancer treatments. Cohen points to a few reliable markers: “We’re meant to urinate every two to three hours throughout the day, and you want the color of your urine to be strong, but not too orange or too brown, which indicates dehydration, and not crystal-clear, because you could be over-hydrating.”

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In her book Quench, Cohen delineates a five-day plan to optimize hydration. Start every day with a big glass of water, which can include a squeeze of lemon and a pinch of real salt (pink or sea salt, not processed table salt). Drink a glass of water before every meal. “For people who are trying to lose weight, a few published studies suggest that this will help them lose five additional pounds over a three-month period when dieting,” she says. When feeling hungry, drink a glass of water. We often mistake hunger for thirst. Consume one or two green smoothies a day made with a blend of greens, water and added ingredients to taste. This will incorporate a healthy amount of daily fiber, which helps to absorb and hold on to water. Add what Cohen calls “micro-movements” throughout the day, such as nodding the head up and down, rotating the wrists and ankles, scrunching fingers and toes or

twisting the torso. “These little movements help to move fluid throughout the body and lubricate joints,” she explains.

Hydrating Foods According to Axe, some foods are naturally hydrating, including coconut water, melons, celery, cucumber, kiwi, citrus fruits, carrots, bell peppers, berries, lettuce, avocado, zucchini and tomatoes. Cohen recommends one to two tablespoons of chia seeds mixed into a liquid every day. “They’re incredibly hydrating. If you soak chia seeds in water, they form this gel-like structure on them. Thanks to some fascinating research by Dr. Gerald Pollack from the University of Washington, in Seattle, this gel water, which has different properties from regular H2O, is believed to store energy like a battery. Getting more of this structured water by eating plants should be your goal, so your body and your cells are better hydrated.”

Best Fluids to Drink “The best option is purified water that goes through a filtering process to remove chemical pollutants, bacteria, fungi and algae, but still has beneficial minerals,” Axe says. Both Axe and Cohen recommend the Environmental Working Group’s water filter guide (ewg.org) to find the best athome system for every budget, as well as its database that lists the safety of tap water in each U.S. zip code. “The research shows that under four cups of coffee a day is not a diuretic, so it does contribute to your hydration; anything above four cups starts to become a diuretic and goes against you,” Cohen notes, adding that herbal teas are always a great hydrating option with added medicinal properties. Sandra Yeyati, J.D., is a professional writer and editor. Reach her at SandraYeyati@gmail.com.

www.EckankarArizona.org May 2022

natural pet

Saving Birds from Cats SIMPLE STRATEGIES TO PROTECT FEATHERED FRIENDS by Karen Shaw Becker

hen they’re roaming outdoors, domesticated cats turn into natural-born predators. According to the American Bird Conservancy, domestic felines are the number one human-caused threat to birds in the U.S., killing an estimated 2.4 billion birds every year. Cats have contributed to the extinction of 63 species of birds, mammals and reptiles in the wild. New studies suggest ways to let a cat enjoy the outdoors without endangering winged species.

Use Rainbow-Colored Ruff Collars A small study by the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) suggests that when bright, rainbow-colored ruff collars are placed on free-roaming cats, it reduces the number of birds they kill. Birds have excellent color vision, and the flashy collars work as an early warning system of impending stealth attacks. “To the bird, this rainbow color stands out like a sore thumb,” says Ken Otter, chair of the UNBC Department of Ecosystem Science and Management. “It’s the opposite of a hunter’s camo.” Another study at the UK University of Exeter focused on 219 cats whose owners regularly let them hunt outside. The researchers divided the cats into six groups, including a control group that didn’t change their habits. For 12 weeks, the owners took pictures of every animal their cats brought home and found that collar covers like those used in the Canadian study reduced the numbers of captured birds by 42 percent.

Feed Them a Fresh Meat Diet

Play with a Cat Daily Households in which owners engaged in five to 10 minutes of daily object play with their cats (using, for example, an interactive feather toy like Da Bird) reported a 25 percent decrease 30

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The UK researchers found that when cats were fed a high-meat protein, grain-free food, they brought home 36 percent fewer dead birds and other wildlife. Because cats are strict carnivores, a balanced diet rich in fresh animal meat, fed raw or gently cooked (rather than rendered meat or meat meal), meets their nutritional needs and reduces their urge to kill prey animals. A feline family member will do best with a diet that replicates that of captured prey: high in moisture content with excellent-quality meat, moderate amounts of high-quality animal fat and a very low percentage of carbohydrates. This means absolutely no kibble.

in captured prey, according to the UK researchers. “Cats who are young and still kittenish will play with almost anything. Older cats who’ve been around the block a few times and know how to hunt and play with their toys do tend to get bored more easily,” explains feline behaviorist Marci Koski, Ph.D. “I recommend having a number of different lures and wand toys in your toolbox.”

Avoid Cat Bells or Puzzle Feeders Cat bells have “no discernible effect” on cats’ prey catch, the UK researchers report. Puzzle feeders containing kibble actually increased killed prey by 33 percent, perhaps because of cats’ “inability to easily access food and resulting hunger or frustration,” they write.

Have Them Hunt Indoors for Food

Give Cats Safe Outdoor Access For reasons of safety and overall health and longevity, cats should be kept indoors, but with regular supervised access to the outdoors. Training her to walk on a harness and leash can be an ideal way to allow safe, controlled access to the great outdoors. An alternative is a catio (cat patio), which is a safe outdoor enclosure that allows a kitty secure access to the outdoors. The enclosure should be open-air, allowing the cat to feel fresh air and sunlight, but shielded enough to prevent escape or a predator from getting inside. It also keeps birds safe. Veterinarian Karen Shaw Becker has spent her career empowering animal guardians to make knowledgeable decisions to extend the life and well-being of their animals. For more information, visit DrKarenBecker.com.

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To ease boredom, give a cat opportunities to “hunt” for their food indoors. Try separating his daily portion of food into three to eight small meals, fed throughout the day in a variety of puzzle toys, or indoor hunting

feeder mice. Or, hide his food bowls in various locations around the house. Start with one bowl in his usual spot, and then place his food portion into additional bowls in other areas where he is sure to find them. If there is more than one cat, keep the bowls in separate areas of the house.

May 2022

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Rejuvenating Our Immune System by Sandra Yeyati

What is Immuno-Rejuvenation? Recent discoveries show that exposure to things like a toxin, a serious viral infection or even post-traumatic stress syndrome may create an alarm reaction in our immune system, and the memory of that gets encoded in something called the epigenetic programming of our immune system, becoming a controller of how the immune system functions. This new state of alarm is passed on from immune cell to immune cell, locking the immune system into an imbalanced state that is tipped either towards too much response, which we call inflammation, or too little response, which is immune suppression and increased risk to infection. A balanced immune system, on the other hand, is resilient and capable of moving forward and backward depending on the exposure that the individual is living through. We believe we can activate Immuno-Rejuvenation through a process built into our body’s system of renewal called autophagy. Its discovery won a Nobel Prize in medicine and physiology in 2016. In the immune system, autophagy selectively prunes damaged cells that are carrying bad epigenetic messages, allowing cells that are not predestined to be alarmed to take over, leading to a rejuvenated, balanced immune system that can be more resilient to the environment and isn’t overreacting or under-reacting, while still working as you would like it—to defend us. 32

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There are two parts to our immune system. One is the adaptive immune system, which produces antibodies that remember what we were exposed to in terms of viruses or bacteria, and can mount a response if we are reinfected. The other, the innate immune system, is the first line of defense, found on our mucosal surfaces like our gastrointestinal tract, our respiratory tract or on our skin. In the last five to 10 years, immunologists have discovered that the innate immune system can be epigenetically retrained to be more in balance through things like time-restricted feeding, regular activity or exercise, predictably getting into REM sleep and the incorporation of plantderived nutrients called phytochemicals into our diet, which are believed to activate selective autophagy processes. In conjunction with these lifestyle principles, you want to remove exposure to specific chemicals, including agrochemicals, airborne pollutants, heavy metals—things known to increase inflammation. The innate immune system is cleansed in part through the activity of the lymphatic system, which is circulated by physical motion. If we’re not moving, our lymphatic system becomes sluggish. Many types of physical medicine—massage, acupuncture, manipulation, chiropractic— are ways of activating lymphatic draining. This is a very important additional component for the improvement of our immune function. At Big Bold Health, we put together resources to take people through an assessment of their own immune system

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How can we reset our immune system?

nown worldwide as the founder of functional medicine, Jeffrey Bland, Ph.D., began his career as a professor of biochemistry at the University of Puget Sound, in Tacoma, Washington. In the 1980s, he was chosen by Nobel laureate Linus Pauling to serve as director of nutritional research at the Linus Pauling Institute of Science and Medicine. Bland’s expertise and visionary influence helped to popularize science-based nutrition and establish standards for evidence-based formulations, quality ingredient sourcing and ethical manufacturing practices in the natural products industry. Bland is the author of more than 100 peerreviewed research publications and several bestselling books, most notably The Disease Delusion. His latest project is Big Bold Health, a company designed to transform the way people think about the immune system.

by answering a questionnaire and a host of educational assets including videos, podcasts, blogs, recipes and more. You can access these for free on our website, BigBoldHealth.com.

What targeted, phytochemicalrich foods are you excited about?

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Himalayan Tartary Buckwheat. Over the millennia of its evolution, this unique plant developed the ability to activate its immune system to defend itself against bugs, pollutants, poor soils, drought, sun. As a result, it has in its genes the ability to produce the highest level of immuneactivating phytochemicals of any plant we know—50 to 100 times higher. Human clinical trials indicate that people who consume about 100 grams a day of the whole-meal Himalayan Tartary Buckwheat experience distinctive health advantages, reducing inflammation, lowering blood fats and blood sugar, and improving insulin sensitivity, all of which are conditions related to dysfunctions of the immune system.

How does the ImmunoRejuvenation concept relate to women’s health?

Women have evolved mechanisms to modulate the immune system to accommodate pregnancy, but that estrogen/ androgen balance that controls pregnancy also influences their immune system, and we’re starting to learn how it can significantly influence immune cell aging and injury. So this process of selective immune autophagy is very important in women who go on to have the most prevalent cases of autoimmunity, meaning they are more sensitive to some of these things that would produce an immune response that

would be inflammatory.

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

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Singh Meadows Farmers’ Market 1490 E Weber Dr Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays 8am-2pm Facebook.com/SinghFarms

Local Farmers’ Markets

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Ahwatukee Farmers’ Market 4700 E Warner Rd, Phoenix Sundays Oct-May 9am-1pm Jun-Sep 8am-11am Facebook.com/AhwatukeeFarmersMarket Care 1st Farmers’ Market 328 W Western Ave, Avondale Tuesdays Jul-Oct 8am-noon ArizonaCommunityFarmersMarkets.com Carefree Farmers’ Market 1 Sundial Circle Fridays Oct-May 9am-1pm Jun-Sep 8am-11am Facebook.com/CarefreeFarmersMarket Downtown Chandler Farmers’ Market 3 S Arizona Ave Saturdays Oct-May 9am-1pm Jun-Sep 7am-10:30am Facebook.com/ChandlerFarmersMarket Downtown Mesa Farmers’ Market 1 E Main St Saturdays 8am-noon dtMesaFarmersMarket.com Downtown Phoenix Farmers’ Market 721 N Central Ave Saturdays Oct-Apr 8am-1pm May-Sep 7am-11am DowntownPhoenixFarmersMarket.org

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