Finding Your Tribe
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Dog Walking
Recently, my friends and I were discussing the very topic of the Natural Pet article featured in this month’s edition on page 34: how people are more likely to approach and strike up conversations when we have a dog with us. This isn’t just limited to other dog owners; even people without dogs seem more inclined to say hello when my dog is by my side.
An interesting aspect of frequently visiting the same place—in my case, a state park just seven minutes from my home—is that it fosters a sense of investment in the area. Regular visitors, including myself, tend to follow the rules more closely, such as picking up after our dogs and keeping them on leashes, unlike occasional visitors. I suspect I’m not alone in this sentiment.
It’s amazing how much I look forward to my daily walks, as they provide an opportunity for my dog and me to socialize with other like-minded people and their pets. Additionally, the park itself is a major attraction with its great paths; abundant vegetation (offering plenty of shade!); and diverse wildlife, including eagles, blue herons, songbirds, otters and deer.
It’s a wonderful mix of people and dogs in a beautiful, safe setting, thanks to the vigilant and friendly park rangers. I am grateful every day for this lovely place to walk and for the social opportunities it provides for both me and my dog.
Lifestyle, Nutrition and Bone Density
According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, bones that contain more minerals are denser, stronger and less likely to break. With age or certain medical conditions, bones can become less dense, and osteoporosis can develop, causing them to become weak and brittle.
A study published in the journal Nutrients evaluated the role of lifestyle and nutrition on women’s bone mineral density. The study included a cross-section of more than 850 healthy premenopausal Saudi women divided into two age groups: 20-to30-year-olds and 30-to-40-year-olds. Participants had their bone mineral density measured, provided a blood sample and self-reported sociodemographic, medical history, lifestyle, diet and physical activity information. The results showed that adequate vitamin D levels, physical activity and proper nutrition positively influence bone mineral density values, which can impact bone health later in life.
Asbestos in Cosmetics
Talc is used in many forms of makeup, including bronzer, blush, eyeshadow, foundation, mascara, lipstick and dry shampoo, because it absorbs moisture and prevents caking. But when it is mined, talc may be contaminated by naturally occurring asbestos, which is not evenly distributed, making testing for it difficult.
British women have sued leading cosmetic companies in U.S. courts, claiming they contracted mesothelioma, an incurable cancer of the lining of the lung, heart or stomach, through their use of cosmetic products. Unless related to employment, it is difficult to bring legal action for mesothelioma in the UK, and many of the large cosmetic companies are based in America. These women are seeking compensation and to raise awareness of the risks.
Johnson and Johnson (J&J) faces nearly 54,000 lawsuits related to claims that talc in baby powder caused ovarian cancer. A Reuters investigation found that J&J executives knew for decades that talc can contain asbestos.
Xurzon from Getty Images Pro/piotr_malczyk from Getty Images/ Can vaPro
Harmful Chemicals in Decaffeinated Coffee
Environmental activist groups filed petitions with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to remove two chemicals from their safe list that are used in the production of decaffeinated coffee. Trichloroethylene and methylene chloride were found to cause cancer decades ago by the National Cancer Institute. Notably, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently banned the use of methylene chloride for industrial use due to its risk of causing cancer and other serious health conditions. Safer methods for decaffeinating coffee exist, and some brands, like Peet’s Coffee, have made the switch. To find out how a brand of coffee is decaffeinated, consumers can visit CheckYourDecaf.org or contact the producer.
Natural Remedy for Radiation-Induced Dermatitis
Dermatitis affects 95 percent of patients undergoing radiation therapy. According to a review published in Drugs in Context, the symptoms of radiation-induced dermatitis include pain, ulceration, swelling, itching, burning and physical and psychological discomfort. In some cases, opportunistic infections may also arise. While initial treatments involve moisturizers, dressings and antihistamines, more severe cases are treated with topical corticosteroids and antibiotics.
Seventy breast cancer patients undergoing radiation treatment participated in a 2024 randomized, double-blind study published in Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications to test the effectiveness of Alantel, a topical body cream that contains concentrated levels of aloe vera, chamomile and thyme. Half the group applied Alantel during the four-week trial, and the control group applied a standard moisturizing emollient cream that contained beeswax. The Alantel group had significantly lower incidence of lesions and a significantly lower duration of dermatitis than the control group.
Drought at the Panama Canal
The Panama Canal, a 51-mile waterway connecting the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, transports $270 billion of cargo annually. Located at each end of the canal, locks lift and lower ships, moving them into and out of Gatun Lake, an artificial freshwater lake. A severe drought during the May to December 2023 rainy season has resulted in the lake being six feet below its pre-drought levels. As a result, the Panama Canal Authority has restricted the number and size of ships that are able to pass through the canal since June 2023, causing ships to have to travel around the tip of South America to reach their destinations, adding delays at other ports and escalating the demand for trucking and rail services—all of which have increased greenhouse gas emissions and the cost of imported goods. In addition, water in the locks that is usually flushed into the oceans is being recycled to maintain Gatun Lake’s water level, and because this reused water can become saltier, it poses a threat to Panama’s main source of drinking water.
Environmental Realities of Detergent Sheets and Pods
Makers of laundry detergent sheets tout their products’ eco-benefits, including their compact size; a reduction in detergent waste caused by drips, spills and overfilling; and their efficient, plastic-free packaging. The sheets contain polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), an ingredient that is also present in dish-detergent pods, which the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has deemed safe for humans and the environment due to the fact that it biodegrades into water and carbon dioxide when exposed to certain microbes.
Unfortunately, PVA biodegradation conditions are not always present in municipal wastewater treatment plants. A 2021 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health estimates that approximately 75 percent of PVAs end up in the environment through sludge or water released from treatment plants. Because the majority of PVAs are made from fossil fuels, they add to global microplastic pollution.
Designer Handbags Use Mushroom Leather
Mycelium, the soft, dense and strong roots of fungi, are being used in mycotextiles, a potential replacement for leather. MycoWorks, a South Carolina-based biotechnology company, is working on a scalable approach to grow uniform sheets of interwoven mycelium that are customizable for varying thickness, surface features and dimensions. The goal is to produce a more ethical, environmentally sustainable and efficient alternative to animal leather. The fungus is grown in sterilized agricultural waste such as sawdust and bran, and the growth process ends when the sheets of mycelium are peeled off the sawdust block, at which point they can be tanned and crafted into a range of marketable products. To date, MycoWorks materials have been used in designer handbags for Hermès, making them biodegradable at the end of their life cycle.
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SL_ Photography from Getty Images/CanvaPro
The Power of Community
Finding a Path to Meaningful Connection
by Thais Harris, BCHN
Despite society’s increasing emphasis on individualism, the concept of community remains a powerful force for personal and collective wellbeing. Loneliness is detrimental to both mental and physical health and comparable to smoking or obesity in terms of risk factors. Among older adults, isolation is associated with an increased probability of dementia.
In his book Project Unlonely: Healing Our Crisis of Disconnection, Dr. Jeremy Noble discusses the public health and economic impacts of widespread seclusion, as well as the importance of building meaningful connections. He advocates making loneliness screening a
routine part of health care and prescribing social activities such as museum visits, classes and nature walks for patients. These measures have been effectively used in the United Kingdom.
There is a growing movement that encourages us to find our tribe—those that resonate with our own core values, interests and lifestyle. While historically associated with Indigenous groups, a “tribe” is defined as a social division consisting of families or communities linked by social, economic, religious or blood ties, with a common culture and dialect. The point is to surround ourselves with supportive individuals that uplift us and provide a sense of belonging.
Multigenerational Communion
Family is, in a sense, our original tribe, serving a crucial role in our sense of belonging throughout life. Regardless of interpersonal dynamics, maintaining consistent connection with relatives can ease loneliness and improve longevity and other health outcomes. In the world’s Blue Zones, where people live the longest and have a better overall quality of life, the happiest centenarians build their lives around their families, and multigenerational households are common.
To remain anchored in our heritage, it is essential to regularly share moments and activities with kin, enjoying family meals,
holiday parties, game nights, walks around the neighborhood or even living room hangouts. Simply spending time together allows us to share family stories, learn from each other and create traditions. Outside the family, there are many ways to find or create a tribe of cheerful acquaintances and deeply held friendships that form a safety net to shield us from drifting into isolation.
Serving Others
Volunteering is a powerful way to engage in activities that align with our passions and values while also connecting with like-minded people and helping a cause or deserving group of individuals. One example is Volunteers in Medicine (VIM), founded in 2003, which brings together 70 medical professionals and approximately 100 community stakeholders that volunteer their time to provide free health care for the uninsured people of the Berkshires, in Massachusetts. While the practitioners treat patients—in-person and
online—the others serve as interpreters, drivers and receptionists. The generosity of these individuals addresses an important need in the community and keeps people out of hospitals.
“By engaging in VIM’s mission, volunteers find purpose and meaning through the act of giving back, enhancing their own lives while improving others,” shares VIM Executive Director Ilana Steinhauer.
“The opportunity to serve the community not only fulfills a personal desire to help those in need, but also fosters a deep sense of connection and community among volunteers. This camaraderie and shared mission enrich the volunteers’ lives, creating a ripple effect of positivity that strengthens the entire community fabric, making it a cornerstone of community and personal development.”
Another example is nonprofit Citizen University, which equips Americans to be cultural catalysts. Their Local Civic Collaboratory aims to shift the paradigm
of success from individual achievement to shared triumph. Through collaborative gatherings, participants are empowered to address local issues, launch educational initiatives and spark artistic endeavors while relishing in deep conversations, forging meaningful bonds and launching networks of unified action.
Making Deep Connections
Coming together around shared beliefs or devotional practices can be another avenue to step away from seclusion and into a loving fraternity. Some people with shared values and goals choose to live with each other in what is known as intentional communities, many of which emphasize sustainability, cooperation and mutual support. The Foundation for Intentional Community offers an online directory to find the right living situation based on multiple criteria, including geographical location, community type, dietary preferences, educational styles, religious or spiritual beliefs and renewable energy sources.
The Kindness of Strangers
When we are out and about, we encounter people we don’t know—strangers in supermarket aisles, bank lines or walking their dogs in the local park. Instead of passing by without acknowledging them, we have the choice to say hello or exchange pleasantries. On his podcast “Hidden Brain”, Shankar Vedantam explores how these tiny encounters can impact our lives. Smiling at people in the street, expressing gratitude for small acts of kindness or complimenting someone’s style elevates both parties. Studies by Amit Kumar, assistant professor of marketing and psychology at the University of Texas at Austin, and Nicholas Epley, professor of behavioral science at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, highlight the beneficial, long-term impact of small acts of kindness and positive interactions on recipients and givers.
Bonding Online and In Person
If friendships were lost during the pandemic, rebuilding a tribe will require intentionality and creativity. Reaching out
with purpose to create community might just be what saves us and the planet. When we feel a sense of belonging, we can collaborate for the common good and boost our ability to protect nature, innovate and find solutions for the world’s problems. How we network is limited only by our imagination: Take classes at the local library, community college or arts organization; find a fun activity on MeetUp.com; or form a group to make new friends that share a common interest.
While online tribes can offer accessibility and a broader reach, thus facilitating connections with people from different geographies and backgrounds, face-to-face interactions are essential to our well-being. Holistic psychologist Victoria Kar shares, “Never in history has humanity been more disconnected from each other than now. The predominance of urban lifestyles creates barriers for deep social connections, and technology creates a false sense of belonging—where we can reach someone on the other side of the world on a screen—yet have no one to hold next to us.”
In-person communities provide a more heartfelt sense of fellowship. When we are present, we emit energetic fields, and the heart radiates perhaps the most powerful energy. Studies conducted by the HeartMath Institute have shown that the heart’s magnetic field can be detected by other individuals up to five feet away, igniting our sense of belonging in a way that is not possible online.
In his recent advisory report, “Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation,” U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Hallegere Murthy notes that, across age groups, people are spending less time with each other in person than two decades ago, and this is most pronounced among young people aged 15 to 24 that are engaging in 70 percent fewer interactions with friends. Murthy points out, “The impact of this lack of social connection can be felt in our schools, workplaces and organizations, where performance, productivity and engagement are diminished.”
The report outlines six recommendations to enhance social connection, including:
• Urging for greater social infrastructure at parks, libraries and public programs
• Enacting pro-connection public policies at every level of government such as access to public transport and paid family leave
• Mobilizing the health sector to address needs stemming from isolation
• Reforming digital environments
• Investing in research to deepen our understanding of social isolation
• Cultivating a culture of connection
In his book Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World , Murthy identifies three types of connections that play a crucial role in our lives: intimate (close friends and family), relational (friends and acquaintances) and collective (communities). Factors such as work culture, social media and urbanization can hinder meaningful connections, contributing to a growing sense of isolation.
As a solution, he emphasizes the importance of small, consistent actions such as active listening, expressing gratitude and engaging with community. True connection is a source of healing. The Surgeon General urges, “Answer that phone call from a friend. Make time to share a meal. Listen without the distraction of your phone. Perform an act of service. Express yourself authentically.”
Finding a tribe can significantly impact our health and happiness, providing support, joy and inclusion. The connections we choose to nurture can enrich our lives in profound ways, ensuring we thrive in body, mind and spirit.
Thais Harris is a board-certified holistic nutritionist, bestselling author and international speaker. Connect at NourishTogether.com.
Inspiration Gathering Around the Friendship Fire
by Marlaina Donato
CLelde Feldmane-Zajarska/Shutterstock
ommunities of old were created and bound by a collective ethos that included a common ethnicity and geography, as well as shared religious beliefs and traditions. Gathering around the fire combined the needs of survival with stories and song that ignited generations with spiritual sustenance.
In our modern Western world, we sit amid the ruins of what community used to be. Our tapestry of human bonds is becoming threadbare beneath the weight of overly scheduled lives, screen distraction and social divisions. Despite having constant contact with others on our phones, newsfeeds and online conference rooms, we may sometimes feel like lone travelers across a tundra of isolation.
In nature, symbiotic relationships between fungi and trees, flowers and insects, and certain species of animals are the foundation of life. As much as 70 percent of forest flora
depend upon winged creatures for pollination, and lichens are often composed of three organisms living together harmoniously.
As we go through the workday, drive the kids to practice and scramble to get dinner on the table, it is easy to forget that we, too, are part of the natural order. Fostering lifenourishing connections helps us to cope and thrive, while prioritizing openness can become much-needed soul medicine.
Summer days are often treasured for the memories we make with those we love, yet to-do lists loom over our heads as August winds down. This year, let’s take the spirit of summer into the cooler months and vow to spend quality time with loved ones, mend the broken threads in our relationships and enjoy each other’s company in the present moment. We can choose to appreciate everyone—from the supermarket cashier to the family dentist—and see their worthy contributions interwoven in our own lives. In doing so, we might remember our own invaluable roles in the fabric of life.
To rekindle and build community, join a local group or class to share a passion; chitchat with someone while standing in line at the grocery store; or invite a neighbor to spend quality time together. Take every opportunity to make a connection.
Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at BluefireStudio.art.
The Environmentally Friendly Workplace
Agreener work environment reduces costs, optimizes building operations, saves energy and water, reduces waste and improves employee morale. A study by Brookfield Properties, a real estate developer, found that 93 percent of those working in an eco-friendly office feel happier. Here are some sustainable workplace measures.
• C onserve electricity. Install motionactivated light switches, and turn off computers during off-hours. Use a smart thermostat to schedule efficient temperature settings throughout the workday and on weekends and holidays. Strategically position window blinds to regulate room temperature. Switch to LED lightbulbs, which emit very little heat, use 75 percent less energy and last three to five times longer t han incandescent bulbs.
• Travel less. Reduce the company’s carbon footprint and business travel expenses by employing video conferencing.
• Embrace renewable energy. Adopt solar panels and wind energy. Where available, choose an electric company that uses renewable energy sources instead of coal or natural gas.
• Recycle. Clearly label recycling bins in kitchens and common areas; post signs listing items that can be recycled. Donate or recycle old office furniture, computers and other electronics. Participate in recycling programs for printer cartridges and batteries.
• Go paperless. The average U.S. office worker prints about 31 pages a day, contributing to 21 million tons of paper waste by businesses annually. Replace paper and ink with digital solutions.
• Decorate with plants. Live greenery beautifies workspaces, lowers stress and anxiety, boosts oxygen levels and reduces indoor air pollutants.
• Promote a sustainable kitchen. Use reusable mugs and kitchenware or offer compostable options. Keep reusable takeout containers for office leftovers. Replace paper towels with washable towels, compostable sponges, scrub brushes and cloth napkins. Keep a hamper close by and launder as needed.
• Ditch the plastic pods. A coffee pod machine produces plastic waste with
each cup. Use a coffee pot or opt for recyclable pods and a dedicated recycling bin nearby.
• Provide a water station. Plastic water bottles are packing landfills and polluting waterways. Install a filtered-water dispenser and encourage office workers to employ reusable cups and bottles.
• Use green cleaning products. Ecofriendly products are less toxic and produce less waste. Choose bar soap and refillable, sustainable cleaning solutions.
• Plan purchases. E-commerce is convenient but can contribute to packaging waste and carbon emissions. Purchase office supplies from sustainable suppliers; buy products with low lifecycle environmental impacts; order in bulk; and avoid small, last-minute orders.
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In Search of the Healthiest Diet
Sustenance and Habits Inspired by Blue Zones
by Maya Whitman
The average life expectancy is 77.5 years in the United States, but residents of the Seventh-Day Adventist city, Loma Linda, California, are outliving the rest of the country by 10 years. Like other regions of the world classified as Blue Zones, Loma Linda’s soil and water aren’t sprinkled with magic, but daily lifestyle and dietary habits might be key contributing factors.
Coined by National Geographic explorer and researcher Dan Buettner, the term “Blue Zones” is bestowed upon intriguing corners of the world where people reach their ninth decade and beyond without suffering from chronic illness and disease. While no definitive formula for longevity exists in Loma Linda or any of the other four Blue Zones—Nuoro Province, Sardinia, Italy; Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica; Okinawa, Japan; and Ikaria, Greece—commonalities include staying physically active, eating unprocessed food and enjoying a vibrant social network.
“By prioritizing physical activity, encouraging plant-based diets and creating spaces that promote social interactions, communities can reduce the incidence of chronic diseases and improve overall well-being,” says Buettner, author of The Blue Zones Kitchen, who found his life’s work traveling the world in search of centenarian secrets.
Delicious Simplicity
In 2023, JAMA Internal Medicine published the findings of a long-term study involving
more than 75,000 women and 44,000 men over 36 years, which determined that adherence to one of four plant-based and Mediterranean dietary patterns can lower the risk of premature death. All of the dietary guidelines in this study included whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts and legumes. Growing evidence suggests that nutrient-dense, unprocessed meals play a major role in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to cardiovascular disease, cancer and diabetes.
“Diets in Blue Zones are predominantly plant-based, with a heavy emphasis on vegetables, fruits, legumes and whole grains. They also eat a variety of beans, which are a staple in their diets and an excellent source of protein and fiber,” Buettner points out, adding that moderate portion sizes, unhurried mealtime and leaving the table when 80 percent full are also highlights of the Blue Zone lifestyle.
Anna Freedman, a natural-food chef, educator and founder of Wholefood Harmony, in London, England, specializes in a health-supporting macrobiotic approach based on ancient Japanese philosophy and developed in the 1920s by George Ohsawa. She says, “Whole foods are essential to health and longevity. Plants capture the sun’s energy, so consuming vegetables,
fruits, legumes and grains bestows both nutrition and vibrancy upon the body. These foods are alkalizing and directly nourish the cells, restoring the blood quality and supporting health and longevity.”
Macrobiotic favorites like lentils, chickpeas, whole grains and dark, leafy greens echo Blue Zone dietary models and are believed to promote overall systemic balance. The macrobiotic approach, adds Freedman, “can be adjusted to focus on improving a certain health condition or adapted to meet climate, phase of life or another factor.” In her work with clients, she encourages the consumption of a wide range of plant ingredients and cooking styles, and even incorporates certain animal proteins, to accommodate client preferences.
Diets that seek to promote a longer, healthier life usually include powerhouse ingredients such as naturally fermented sauerkraut and kimchi, legumes like lentils and split peas, and whole grains, especially barley, millet and oats.
Social Sustenance
In our modern world, feelings of isolation are reaching epidemic proportions, and in the medical community, loneliness is now seen as a risk factor for mortality that is equal to the effects of obesity, smoking or
a sedentary lifestyle. Through Blue Zone research, it is understood that emotional nourishment is vital to good health. According to Buettner, “In Blue Zones, people often engage in regular social interactions, whether it’s through communal meals, faith-based gatherings or simply spending time with neighbors and family.” A table of delicious food surrounded by loved ones is an inspiring way to eat and age gracefully.
For Gladys McGarey, M.D., cofounder of the American Holistic Medical Association, who is still practicing medicine at 103 years of age, our thoughts are also a form of nourishment. “What we feed our minds grows and lives, and we become it,” says the author of the bestseller The Well- Lived Life. “It has to do with love, the whole process of life. Love must be shared to flow, and life is the same. We must not only create community, but live it.”
Freedman sums it up saying, “Eating and togetherness is a key feature of humanity, which is alarmingly in sharp decline. Food was always meant to be enjoyed together, and doing so serves up much more than simply nutrition.”
Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings magazine.
Bean and Squash Tortillas With Papaya Salsa
This recipe calls for the use of nixtamal corn tortillas, a staple in Mexican cooking. The masa is made by cooking and soaking dried corn kernels with calcium hydroxide or another alkali, which significantly increases its nutritional benefits. The tortillas can be made at home from scratch or purchased ready-made. Look for products made with nixtamalized corn masa.
YIELD: 6 SERVINGS
1 small ripe papaya, peeled, halved, seeded and chopped (about 1 cup)
1 small red bell pepper, stemmed, cored and diced (about ½ cup)
¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped
3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
2 Tbsp fresh lime juice
1½ cups canned black or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 medium yellow squash, chopped (about 4 oz)
1 cup corn kernels cut from the ear or frozen kernels, thawed
2 medium carrots, peeled and shredded through the large holes of a box grater
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp ground dried cayenne (or less, to taste)
¼ tsp salt
6 nixtamal corn tortillas
Stir the papaya, bell pepper, cilantro, lime juice and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small bowl. Cover this salsa and set aside at room temperature for up to 4 hours.
Warm 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet set over medium-high heat. Add the beans, squash, corn, carrots, cumin, cayenne and salt. Cook, stirring often, until the squash is tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the papaya salsa and set aside off the heat.
Set the oven rack 4 to 6 inches from the broiler element; heat the broiler for a few minutes. Lay the tortillas on a large, lipped baking sheet and brush them with the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Broil until warmed and lightly toasted, about 30 seconds. Transfer the tortillas to serving plates and top each with a sixth of the bean mixture to serve.
Recipe courtesy of Dan Buettner.
Toasted Spiced Chickpeas (Sardinia Side Dish)
YIELD: 1½ CUPS
1 15-oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
2 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp garlic salt
½ tsp chili powder
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 350°F.
Toss the chickpeas, oil, cumin, garlic salt, chili powder and black pepper in a large bowl until well coated and uniform. Pour the mixture onto a large, lipped baking sheet and spread into one layer. Bake 45 to 60 minutes until browned and crisp, stirring occasionally.
Set the baking sheet on a wire rack and cool for 10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chickpeas to a serving bowl. Serve warm or at room temperature with plenty of napkins.
Recipe courtesy of Dan Buettner.
Immune-Boosting Soup With Miso and Ginger Scent
This macrobiotic soup combines all the healing and digestive benefits of miso and ginger. Noodles, fish and a variation of vegetables can be added, too.
YIELD: 4 SERVINGS
Dash sesame oil
1 leek, finely sliced
1 carrot, finely diced
1 zucchini or summer squash, finely diced
3-inch portion of wakame sea vegetable, rinsed and cut into small strips
3 cups boiling water
Spring onions, finely cut for garnish
4 tsp brown rice miso paste
1 inch ginger root, juiced
Heat the sesame oil and sauté the leek for one minute. Add the other vegetables and wakame. To make a broth, add water to cover the ingredients, bring to a boil then simmer for 4 minutes.
Remove one ladle of broth and place in a bowl. Add the miso to this broth, stirring to dissolve and incorporate the paste into the broth, and then pour it back into the original pot of cooked vegetables. Add ginger juice and simmer for another minute or so. Garnish with spring onion.
Recipe courtesy of Anna Freedman.
Protecting Waterways
How Individuals Can Make a Real Difference
by Kelcie Ottoes
The biblical adage that all rivers lead to the sea is one way of saying that all water is connected. This natural design moves water from one place to the next, which means that polluting or littering along one creek eventually pollutes all waterways.
According to the Ocean Conservancy, 11 million metric tons of plastic enter the ocean each year, joining an estimated 200 million metric tons already circulating there. While many organizations and individuals engage in waterway cleanups on
Earth Day in April, attention is needed the rest of the year, too.
Clean waterways support healthy ecosystems, beautify outdoor spaces, provide a safe habitat for wildlife and improve outdoor recreational experiences. We can all play an impactful role in keeping waterways clean.
Getting Started
Most litter is found along the water’s edges, beaches, walking paths and parking areas. By committing to consistently keeping a section of waterway clean, we can deter others
from littering in the area. “Studies have found that clean places stay cleaner,” says Lauren Berent Burgess, engagement director of Denver, Colorado’s The Greenway Foundation, a nonprofit steward of the South Platte River. “Something in our mentality will stop us from destroying a place that looks nice. We feel less guilty littering somewhere there is litter already. You can always keep a waterway clean by maintaining it.”
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides information online about actions to take around the house and in the commu-
nity to support waterways. To learn more, visit epa.gov/urbanwaterspartners/howyou-can-help. Also consider joining a local nonprofit that hosts cleanups, including Adopt a Beach, Ocean Conservancy, Keep America Beautiful, Waterkeeper Alliance and American Rivers.
“If you know somewhere is going to flood, clean up the area before it happens and while water levels are still low to prevent the trash from being swept away,” says Callie Schaser, the communications specialist at Living Lands & Waters, a river cleanup organization headquartered in Illinois. “They may seem small, but picking up items like cigarette butts can have a big impact, especially because of all the contaminants that are in the filter. One cigarette filter can pollute up to two gallons of water before the contaminants are gone.”
Safety Tips
• Ensure minors are accompanied by an adult.
• Check the forecast for rain, flood warnings and high tides.
• Respect nature and leave wildlife alone.
• Do not enter high water.
• Exercise extreme caution when picking up anything sharp, hazardous or excessively heavy.
What to Bring to a Cleanup
• Drinking water
• Snacks
• Trash pickers
• Work gloves
• Closed-toed shoes
• Rain jacket
• Long sleeve shirt
• Long pants
• Hat
• Sunscreen
• Bug spray
• Trash and recycling bags
• Hand sanitizer
• Safety vest
The Impact of Organized Action
When individuals get organized, work together and execute cleanups consistently over time, their collective impacts can be transformative. The Ocean Conservancy has collected almost 349 million pounds of trash since 1986. Living Lands & Waters has cleaned up 25 rivers in 21 states and hosted 1,400 community-based cleanups that have removed more than 13 million pounds of trash since 1998. American Rivers has cleaned up 32.5 million pounds of litter and debris with the help of 1.3 million volunteers covering 261,000 miles of waterways since 1991.
Other Ways to Maintain Waterways
• Generate less trash by consuming less.
• Ensure local trails and parks have trash, recycling and compost bins.
• Eliminate single-use plastic, one of the largest contributors to waterway pollution, according to both Burgess and Schaser.
• Encourage others to take ownership of their trash and local waters.
• Persuade businesses and local groups to adopt sections of waterways and commit to keeping them clean.
• Support farmers using regenerative practices that do not contribute to chemical runoff.
Kelcie Ottoes is a copywriter and content creator specializing in sustainability and environmental topics. She is a frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings.
Cross-Brain Fitness
An Integrative Workout for the Mind and Body
by David J. Sautter, NASM (CPT, FNS, PES), ACE (SCS)
Holistic approaches to health and well-being that consider the entire person—body, mind and spirit— are especially effective in cultivating creativity and mental equilibrium. Cross-brain fitness training encourages the use of both the left and right hemispheres of the brain in tandem to improve body and brain function.
One study published in Advances in Physical Education suggests that exercises involving movements across the middle of the body improved the ability to transfer motor skills from one hand to the other, most likely due to improved communication between the two sides of the brain. A 2016 study published in the Journal of Exercise, Nutrition and Biochemistry found that a 12-week brain health exercise program for seniors improved lower and upper body strength, as well as aerobic endurance, while also increasing cognitive function and levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a protein that plays an important role in neuronal survival and growth.
Engaging Sports
Physical activities that engage both brain hemispheres boost health and enhance creativity by integrating analytical and creative thinking. Team sports such as soccer and basketball are excellent for cross-brain development. They demand strategic planning and logical thinking, activities typically associated with the left hemisphere.
At the same time, they require players to use spatial awareness and creativity—skills linked to the right hemisphere. This combination encourages players to continuously switch between different modes of thinking, thereby improving brain agility and coordination.
“Team sports require players to analyze the game situation, anticipate opponents’ moves and strategize accordingly,” says Danielle Smith, a registered dietitian and personal trainer. “Players need to understand the rules of the game, their positionspecific responsibilities and how to execute plays effectively. Team sports offer a great way for these skills to develop naturally in a fun environment.”
Rock climbing is a prime example of an activity that blends cognitive demands. It requires meticulous problem-solving and advanced planning (left-brain activities) to choose the best routes and techniques for ascent. Simultaneously, climbers must employ spatial awareness and adaptability (right-brain activities) to navigate and
“Team sports require players to analyze the game situation, anticipate opponents’ moves and strategize accordingly,”
adjust to new challenges on the fly, making it a comprehensive brain exercise.
Sailing combines the technical knowledge and analytical thinking characteristic of the left brain, such as navigating and understanding sailing mechanics, with the intuitive grasp of environmental elements like wind and water, a right-brain activity. Sailors must continuously interpret these dynamic elements and adjust their strategies accordingly, promoting an advanced level of hemispheric integration.
Implementing a Routine
Incorporating a variety of cross-brain training activities into a regular fitness routine is crucial for engaging different parts of the brain and maximizing cognitive development. Here are some tips and strategies for creating an effective cross-brain fitness routine:
• Add variety. Rotate between activities that challenge different cognitive skills. For example, blend team sports, which enhance strategic thinking and cooperation, with individual pursuits like rock climbing or sailing that require problem-solving and adaptability. This diversity not only prevents boredom but also stimulates different brain areas.
• Be consistent. Schedule brain-stimulating physical activities several times a
week. This regular engagement helps to encourage new neural connections and improve brain function over time.
• Progress gradually. Start with simpler tasks and gradually increase the complexity of the activities as cognitive and physical abilities improve. This progression keeps the brain challenged and engaged as training advances.
• Track results. Use a journal or digital app to record the types of activities performed, their duration and any noticeable improvements in thinking, problem-solving or creative output. Also reflect on changes in emotional and mental well-being. Such monitoring is essential to appreciate the benefits of a cross-brain fitness routine.
• Check cognitive progress. Consider periodic cognitive assessments to
formally measure cognitive improvements. These can be simple online tests designed to evaluate brain functions such as memory, attention, problemsolving and creativity.
Holistic Support
Cross-brain fitness can be supported by other activities during the day. Regular meditation, for example, quiets the mind’s chatter, allowing both sides of the brain to work in harmony, thus enhancing the ability to generate new ideas and s olve problems creatively. “Meditation and mindfulness practices are associated with strengthening the brain’s connectivity,” explains Kathleen Benson, a registered dietitian specializing in women’s health, sports nutrition and digestive health. “This can improve attention, memory, decision-making and general mindfulness. Regular practitioners often
have improved emotional control, lower stress and clearer thinking.”
What we eat significantly impacts our brain function and overall health. A balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and proteins can enhance cognitive function and support both the logical and creative faculties of the brain. Foods like blueberries, nuts, fish and green leafy vegetables boost brain health and foster mental clarity.
Adequate sleep helps consolidate memories and clear brain fog, making room for new ideas and creative thinking. Sleep also balances the emotional states, ensuring that both the analytical and creative sides of the brain can function optimally without the interference of stress or anxiety.
David J. Sautter is a certified trainer, fitness-nutrition specialist, and health and fitness writer.
Artur
Didyk from Getty Images/CanvaPro
The Power of Healing Circles
Resilience and Enjoyment in Nurturing Company
by Maya Whitman
Throughout history, cultures around the globe have used the circle to represent wholeness, vital energy and community. When humans of like hearts gather in a circle, this timeless geometric symbol becomes embodied, lessening the space between individuals. In today’s challenging times, healing circles echo ancient traditions by offering support from the deep well of human bonds. People from all walks
of life are coming together to tap into their own healing potential by picking up a hand drum, sharing the cancer treatment journey, dancing to tribal beats or expressing the deeper self with colorful paints.
Circles with inspired focus can help us navigate the rough waters of addiction, grief, illness and transitions by breaking down the protective walls we so often
build in the name of survival. “We humans are a social species, and whether you are extroverted or introverted, the experience of belonging amongst others brings an impactful sense of purpose,” says Natalie Lain, executive director at Amethyst Retreat Center, in Duncannon, Pennsylvania. She relates that seeking communal bonds in gatherings like ecstatic dance events isn’t about covering up hardship with false positives, but rather finding grace by “cultivating a foundation of inner strength and ease.”
Drumming Through Tough Times
Inspired by diverse cultural traditions, drum circles are offered at medical centers, hospitals and nursing homes for people with cancer, Parkinson’s disease and other neurological disorders, brain injuries, post-traumatic stress disorder, dementia and viral-based illnesses, including AIDS. In a 2001 study at an outpatient
medical facility in Pennsylvania, researchers found that group drumming that followed a music-therapy protocol boosted the body’s natural killer cell activity and lowered the stress response among participants. Japanese research published in 2020 in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience shows that drumming communication programs help older people with dementia experience improved cognitive function and body composition.
Family members and caregivers can find much-needed relief by releasing challenging emotions through rhythmic drumming. “It’s been very rewarding hosting drum circles with those navigating dementia and Alzheimer’s disease,” says Laura Cerrano, a reiki practitioner and healing drum circle facilitator in New York City and Long Island. “We’ve seen improved social interactions, joy, acknowledgment, feeling more present and restoring dignity.”
A Place To Be Ourselves
Some healing circles use the arts for selfexpression and restorative benefits. In such settings, it is not necessary to aim for excellence or have any special talents; simply being present in the moment will suffice. Whether it’s a free-form dance gathering or painting session, the main objective is being joy of pure expression, shedding layers of self-criticism and competitiveness.”
Expanding our capacity to love is a running thread through cacao ceremonies—gatherings that incorporate the consumption of unadulterated chocolate in its purest form, often prepared as a warm, frothy beverage. In the ancient Americas, cacao was used both ceremonially and medicinally. Modern cacao circles are highly diverse and go beyond religious structure. Often interwoven with music, dance, prayer or meditation, these gatherings inspire reflection and self-exploration.
Online circles can also provide deep emotional sustenance, especially for those unable to attend local events. Cerrano, who has been hosting reiki circles since 2014, saw a need to expand virtually when the world came to a halt in 2020. “The pandemic inspired me to provide weekly virtual reiki circles because people needed a place to gather, feel safe and be heard.”
Whether online or in the neighborhood, healing circles offer something for everyone, and starting up a circle can be just as rewarding. “One of the most important things as a host of mindfulness-focused events is to embody the idea that we are all each other’s teachers,” advises Lain. “It’s important to create an inviting, safe space within your group where people can feel at ease and let their guard down.”
Maya Whitman is a frequent writer for Natural Awakenings.
The Impact of Poor Sleeping and Mouth Breathing on Children’s Health
by Kristen Graham, DDS
Getting kids to sleep can be challenging, but what happens once they do can be even more problematic. Just because they are finally asleep, doesn’t mean all is well.
Fortunately, there has been growing attention to the detrimental effects of poor sleep and mouth breathing on children’s health. Symptoms such as snoring, tooth grinding, bedwetting and sleep walking are indicators
of a child’s struggle to breathe at night. Even attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is now being linked to poor sleep quality.
The Importance of Quality Sleep
Sleep is critical to a child’s well-being and ability to thrive. During sleep, a child’s body undergoes essential processes such as g rowth, tissue repair and cognitive processing.
Many children already suffer from underdeveloped airways, influenced by such factors as whether or not they were breastfed, genetics and diet consistency. Add to that inconsistent bedtime routines and excessive screen time, and achieving the recommended amount of sleep becomes difficult.
Consequences of Poor Sleep
The results of inadequate sleep are becoming increasingly common, and many children suffer from a milder form of sleep apnea known as sleep-disordered breathing. Physically, these children may experience slower growth, weakened immune systems, and a higher susceptibility to illnesses. Cognitive effects include impaired attention, memory problems and learning difficulties, all of which can hinder academic performance. Emotionally, lack of sleep can lead to mood swings, irritability, increased risk of anxiety and depression, behavior issues and chronic fatigue.
The Role of Mouth Breathing
Mouth breathing is highly detrimental to a child’s health and development. Often stemming from nasal congestion, allergies, anatomical issues, or as a learned behavior, it can exacerbate sleep problems. Mouth breathing can also lead to dry mouth, bad breath, and a significantly increased risk of tooth decay.
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You wouldn’t think that how we breathe could affect the development of facial and dental structures. However, children who habitually breathe through their mouths tend to develop a long, narrow face, a high-arched palate, and misaligned teeth. These changes can impact their appearance and their ability to breathe properly as adults.
Addressing the Issues
Addressing poor sleep in children requires a team approach. Setting up an optimal sleep hygiene routine is crucial. Parents should limit screen time two hours before bed, turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices in the home, and create a dark and cool sleeping environment.
If you suspect your child may have breathing issues at night, it is critical to get them screened as early as possible. Children will not “grow out of it.” There are appliances that treat the root cause of the problem and can be used in children as young as 2 to help promote proper jaw development and tongue function.
Poor sleep and sleep-disordered breathing problems are critical issues that can sig nificantly impact children’s health and future. By recognizing and addressing
these symptoms early, parents can give their children a lifetime of better health.
Dr. Kristen Graham graduated from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry in 2013. She is a member of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (SMART certified in safe mercury removal) and achieved her naturopathic dentist certification with the American College of Integrative Medicine and Dentistry in 2017. Graham is very passionate about holistic approaches and getting to the root of the symptoms. She has a heart for helping children and adults. She is also currently on the board of Children’s Health Defense AZ chapter. In her free time, she loves to be in nature, in fellowship or spending time with her family. To schedule an appointment with Graham, call Natural Dental Partners at 602-7755120. Location: 6930 E. Chauncey Ln., Ste. 100, Phoenix. For more information on services offered, visit MyNaturalDentist.com and ABreathOfHealth.com. See ad, pages 3 and 15.
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Overcoming Generation Z Loneliness
Prioritizing Human Interactions Over Screen Time
by Thais Harris, BCHN
Generation Z, defined as those born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, has grown up in a digital era characterized by constant connectivity, yet accompanied by profound isolation. The pervasive use of social media, economic uncertainty, hybrid work environments, climate change anxiety and societal pressures contribute to this sense of loneliness.
The Cigna U.S. Loneliness Index found that nearly eight in 10 Gen Zers (79 percent) are lonely. Schools reported that between 2012 and 2018 nearly double the number of high school students worldwide expressed a sense of loneliness compared to the previous decade. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, loneliness is associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety and premature death. Those that experience social isolation have a 32 percent higher risk of early death.
A leading theory for this phenomenon is that 2012 was the first year when more than 50 percent of Americans had access to a smartphone, and the use of social media platforms reached critical mass. While these platforms offer connection, they often lack the depth and authenticity required for meaningful relationships. They give us the illusion of being connected while having our heads down, focused on our devices and ignoring the people and experiences around us. The curated nature of online profiles also can foster feelings of inadequacy and increasing loneliness.
To address this epidemic, it is essential to focus on creating environments that encourage genuine interactions and a sense of belonging. Understanding our needs and triggers, while also nourishing a sense of connection from within, can open the possibility to greater social connection and deeper interactions in the world. Here are some strategies:
Engage in community. Active participation in local activities can significantly reduce feelings of isolation. Volunteering, joining clubs or participating in neighborhood events foster a sense of purpose
and connection. Engaging in community service can enhance social networks and provide emotional support while helping others.
Share interests and hobbies. Finding and participating in groups centered around shared interests can lead to deeper connections. Whether it’s a book club, sports team or foreign language class, these gatherings offer opportunities for meaningful interactions and friendships. Researchers from The University of Queensland, in Australia, found that engaging in activities that align with personal interests helps to form a coherent social identity and reduces feelings of isolation.
Talk to strangers. Contrary to what older generations taught their children, talking to strangers is not necessarily a dangerous endeavor. It might seem easier to interact with our devices than start a conversation with someone new, but the results of the latter provide a greater sense of well-being and a feeling of belonging. Happier people spend more time talking to others, and when people have more conversations with others, they report being happier.
Be authentic, kind and open. Building genuine relationships requires authenticity. Being open and honest about our feelings
and experiences fosters trust and deeper connection. When unsure about what to say, a random act of kindness can profoundly impact the day for the better, creating a ripple effect in the community.
Start from within. “Our epidemic of loneliness corresponds to an epidemic of selfneglect. This isn’t just about being out of touch with others, but with our own body’s needs. Screen time can invade the space for adequate sleep and movement, leading to less resilience and reduced immunity,” says Peter Sholley, a psychotherapist in Massachusetts. “The gut biome is directly implicated, affected by low-nutrition foods,
antibiotics, and sleep and exercise deficiencies. Many studies point to a connection between a compromised gut biome and lack of microbial diversity with an increase in depression and anxiety.”
The Power of Community
A strong, in-person community provides a support system, reduces stress and promotes overall well-being. To combat the loneliness epidemic among Generation Z, we can start by extending a kind greeting to everyone we meet—on a bus, in the classroom or in the checkout line.
Thais Harris is a holistic nutritionist and author. Learn more at NourishTogether.com.
Pet Posse
Building a Network Around Our Animal Companions
by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN
Like the African proverb “It takes a village to raise a child,” it takes a village to raise a pet, too. Pet ownership involves much more than just feeding and walking them. It requires a holistic approach that includes training, socialization, health care and emotional well-being. A supportive community can play a crucial role in raising a pet by offering a diverse set of skills and resources that contribute to their comprehensive care.
Pets Build Community
A 2017 study across urban sites in the U.S. and Australia found that pet owners have significantly higher “social capital” than non-pet owners. Defined as the “connections among individuals, social networks, and the norms of reciprocity and trustworthiness that arise from them,” social capital is crucial for community well-being.
The study describes how pets can facilitate social interactions, acting as catalysts for building social networks and fostering a sense of community. Such interactions extend beyond simply breaking the ice between strangers; they contribute to a wider social trust and the ties that bind communities together.
A recent report by Mars Incorporated, makers of human and pet food, highlights the power of pets to bring people together and alleviate the loneliness epidemic. Nearly nine in 10 adults say pets are one of the easiest conversation-starters, and pet parents say pets made
them more familiar with their neighbors (85 percent) and more invested in their community (70 percent).
Benefits of a Pet Community
A supportive pet community enhances the quality of life for pets and their owners.
• Socialization for Pets and Owners: Pets need social interaction to thrive. Regular playdates, dog park visits and community events help pets interact with other animals, improving behavior, reducing anxiety and boosting happiness. For owners, these gatherings can foster lasting friendships and a supportive network.
• Shared Knowledge and Resources: Experienced pet owners share advice on training techniques, veterinarians, pet-sitting services, groomers and petfriendly activities, helping pets receive the best care.
• Emotional Support: Pet ownership can be challenging. A community offers much-needed emotional support, empathy and practical advice during difficult times, such as dealing with a sick pet or behavioral issues.
• Active Lifestyle: Pet communities promote an active lifestyle that includes group walks, hiking clubs and outdoor events that keep pets and owners physically healthier and happier.
• Advocacy and Education: Pet communities organize events for spaying and neutering, raise awareness about pet adoption and host workshops on pet care. These efforts contribute to the wellbeing of pets and promote responsible pet ownership.
Finding the Right Tribe
Joining a meetup hosted by a dog park or local pet club is an excellent starting point to find a pet community nearby. Websites like Meetup and Facebook help connect pet owners in the area. Online communities, including breed-specific forums and pet care groups, offer platforms to share experiences, seek advice and build friendships worldwide. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok also host vibrant pet communities.
Veterinary clinics and pet stores often act as local pet community hubs, hosting events and providing bulletin boards for announcements. Participating in pet-friendly festivals, charity walks and adoption fairs offers great opportunities to meet other pet owners and learn about local resources. These activities not only help in finding a pet tribe, but also enhance a pet’s social life and well-being.
The right pet community includes professionals such as veterinarians, pet trainers and nutritionists to provide access to highquality, accurate and reliable information and support. These experts stay updated with the latest research and best practices, allowing pet owners to benefit from the most recent advancements in pet care.
Building a Strong Community
If an existing community doesn’t fit specific needs, consider organizing personal events. Starting a weekly dog walk, hosting a pet playdate in the backyard or planning a pet-friendly picnic can create a supportive network of pet owners with shared interests. Volunteering at animal shelters, rescue organizations or pet adoption events is another excellent way to connect with other passionate pet owners while contributing to a worthy cause.
The power of community in pet ownership is undeniable. Embrac ing the collective care model ensures a healthier, happier and more connected life for all involved.
Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian and holistic health coach for pets, as well as the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.
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Alternative Medicine
LEADING EDGE WELLNESS
MacKenzie Kalt, Owner/Director
4050 E Greenway Rd, Ste 5, Phoenix
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NATURAL MEDICINE & DETOX
2701 N 7th St, Phoenix
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We offer a wide range of services that can help just about everyone at affordable prices. We also accept insurance for acupuncture, including Medicare. Please take a look at our website to learn about our services, gifted practitioners, and insurance information and form to see if your plan covers acupuncture. See ad, page 11.
Art Classes
WATERCOLOR ART CLASSES
Allura Westly 3611 E Sunnyside Dr, Phoenix
AlluraWatercolor@cox.net
602-469-0524 • AlluraWaterColor.com
Allura Westly, master teacher, opens her sanctuary studio to all levels, beginner to advanced. Learn fluid color technique, drawing and composition. Small class of eight students. No talent required, just a desire to create.
Chiropractors
IMAGINE WELLNESS CHIROPRACTIC
Dr. Roxane Zamora, DC
822 E Union Hills Dr, Ste 22, Phoenix 623-582-8951
ImagineWellnessChiropractic.com/us
At Imagine Wellness Chiropractic Center, our mission is to provide chiropractic care to increase health, wellness and healing for you and your family. We are focused on corrective chiropractic care and offer nutritional consultations to bring your health to a whole new level! See testimonials on our website. See ad, page 19.
Dentists
NATURAL DENTAL PARTNERS
6930 E Chauncey Ln, Ste 100, Phoenix 602-775-5120 • MyNaturalDentist.com
The doctors at Natural Dental Partners take the time to listen to your concerns and use their extensive experience to help you achieve better health. Using the latest technology (such as low-dose 3D imaging, CEREC, lasers, PRF, ozone and treatment of sleep disorders), they believe in a team approach to help you achieve your healthcare goals. Check out MyNaturalDentist.com or ABreathOfHealth. com to see how they can help you. See ad, pages 3 and 15.
PHOENIX IMPLANT CLINIC
Eddie, Harsini, DDS 7102 W Thomas Rd, Phoenix 602-385-8732 • PhoenixImplantClinic.com
Emphasizing a holistic approach to dental health, Dr. Harsini and his team have a reputation for pain-free procedures and comprehensive post-operative care, with meticulous attention to detail and a patient-focused philosophy. The clinic uses technologically advanced practices, ensuring the best possible results time after time. See ad, page 9.
SHEA DENTAL
Dr. Josh Raiffe, DMD, AIAOMT 11111 N Scottsdale Rd, Ste 120, Scottsdale 480-998-3923
SheaDentalAZ.com
Shea Dental offers holistic dentistry led by Dr. Josh Raiffe, DMD, AIAOMT Accredited. Using advanced technology like CEREC milling, digital impressions, Wand anesthesia, cone beam CT scanning, and SMART mercury filling removal, Dr. Raiffe ensures safe dental practices. Services include implants, veneers and sleep apnea treatments. Accepts most dental insurance. See ad, page 5.
Doctors
BUTTERFLY HOLISTIC CENTER
Melanie Icard, NMD 1430 E Missouri Ave, Ste B127, Phoenix 602-353-7712 • ButterflyHolistic.com
Dr. Icard specializes in biological medicine, peptides, PRP, aesthetics and ozone therapy. Her offerings include holistic anti-aging medicine, pain reversal, natural and traditional aesthetics, ozone therapy, holistic ketamine therapy, and sexual health regeneration. See ad, page 21.
Energy Healing
KIM CARTER, MA, HTCP 15215 S 48th St, Ste 154, Phoenix Kim@IntuitiveKim.com IntuitiveKim.com
Kim is an Intuitive and Healing Touch Certified Practitioner offering guidance when you feel out of alignment with your authentic self. Stress, fear, anxiety and grief/loss throw us off balance, making it challenging to access inner wisdom. Sessions include reading and clearing your energy field; and simple, practical selfhealing tools to keep you balanced and grounded. See ad, page 11.
WELLNESS CENTER
931 E Southern Ave, Ste 106, Mesa
480-306-7321
RealignYourLifeAZ.com
Realign Your Life Wellness Center features the Harmonic Egg—sound and light therapy for physical, emotional and spiritual energy healing. Other services include The Body Code, Life Force Energy with Sound, sound baths and Higher Guidance Life Coaching. See ad, page 10.
Functional Fitness
OSTEOSTRONG
8120 N Hayden Rd, Scottsdale Text/call 602-932-2792
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OsteoStrong is a leader in natural bone health and wellness with centers in Phoenix (Arcadia) and Scottsdale (McCormick Ranch). Our m embers report significant improvements in osteoporosis, physical strength, balance and posture in 15 minutes a week. Specializing in osteogenesis without drugs, we’re dedicated to holistically enhancing quality of life. See ad, page 9.
Pest Control
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We have organic alternatives available with mul tiple programs to meet your needs. Ask us about our year-round pest protection, SMART ecofriendly rodent control 24/7 home protection, and desert guard home sealing service. See ad, page 19.
Pet Care
ANDREA BRIGGS, AKA “CRITTER DOC”
ASAM, Sh Reiki, HTAP Communicator, Healer, Counselor 602-317-1543
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With a gentle healing touch, Andrea provides wellness counseling, energy healing, animal communication, and intuitive counsel for pets and their people.
Products
KAYA HOLISTIC
6102 N 16th St, Phoenix
480-737-0867
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Kaya Holistic is a lifestyle boutique that carries a curated selection of handcrafted, sustainable goods and botanical wellness products. From cultivators and formulators to makers and artisans, we are committed to supporting companies and industries that make a significant impact in our world through sustainable practices and conscious choices. See ad, page 21.
Real Estate
FENG SHUI REAL ESTATE
Jennie Richau
Associate Broker and Certified Feng Shui Consultant, Brokers Hub Realty 602-292-0622
• WooWooAgent.com
A unique and holistic way to buy or sell! Utilizing Feng Shui and various "woo woo" methods to find you a home where you will thrive or sell your home quickly, for the highest value. See ad, page 9.
Schools
HOLISTIC ENERGY ACADEMY
13291 W McDowell Rd, Ste E-1, Goodyear 623-935-0501
TJHofgard@gmail.com
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Make a Difference Doing What You Love! Become a Professional Holistic Health Energy Practitioner. Learn the most effective and comprehensive energy modality and techniques with proven results. Become trained in the body’s many energy systems; learn how to energy test, clear, restore, detect and correct energy imbalances. Levels I, II and III.
SOUTHWEST INSTITUTE OF HEALING ARTS
1538 E Southern Ave, Tempe 480-994-9244
Info@swiha.edu • swiha.edu
Nationally accredited college offers holistic health and wellness degrees, diplomas, certificates of excellence, continuing education and personal development, oncampus and online. Financial aid available. See ad, outside back cover.
Spiritual Centers
DIMENSIONS OF HEAVEN AND EARTH
11108 N Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd, Ste E16 Scottsdale 732-832-1036
DimensionsOfHeavenAndEarth.com
Dimensions of Heaven and Earth is Scottsdale’s exciting, new one-stop Spiritual Experience: a center of healing and insight combined with a store full of unique gifts from local artisans. With training and tools for your personal development, we are excited to help you take your spiritual journey to new levels! See ad, page 31.
Mark Your Calendar
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ECKANKAR
The Path of Spiritual Freedom
1-877-300-4949 • EckankarArizona.org Eckankar.org • HearHU.org Facebook.com/EckankarArizona
Eckankar is an active, individual, creative spiritual practice. A companion and roadmap for your journey home—to the heights of Self-Discovery and GodDiscovery, and beyond. Come along and discover the most secret part of yourself. The key to spiritual freedom lies within you. Explore life as a Soul Adventure. See ad, page 10.
THE SUMMIT LIGHTHOUSE OF PHOENIX
4105 N 20th St, Ste 115, Phoenix 480-442-5020
SummitLighthousePhoenix@gmail.com
SummitLighthousePhoenix.org
Dedicated to sharing Saint Germain’s Violet Flame. All faiths welcome. Learn how you can become a modern day mystic. We are dedicated to sharing the Teachings of the Ascended Masters® to help you bring in joy and peace to the world. Learn what the requirements are to make your ascension. See ad, page 25.
DEADLINE REMINDER!
Please note that all deadlines (advertising and editorial) are the 10th of the month prior to the edition being published. For example, August 10 is the deadline for all September edition submissions.
Color your way to relaxation!
Local Farmers Markets
NOTE: Please check market websites and ArizonaCommunityFarmersMarkets.com for more information on days and hours, and any restrictions.
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
Gilbert Farmers Market
222 N Ash St
Saturdays Oct-Mar/Apr 8am-noon
Apr/May-Sep 7-11am GilbertMarket.com
High Street Farmers Market
5415 E High St, Phoenix
Sundays Oct-May 10am-1pm
Facebook.com/Farmers-Market-on-HighStreet-2244771575799425
Mommas Organic Market
Arrowhead Farmers Market
7780 W Arrowhead Towne Center, Glendale
Saturdays Oct-May 9am-1pm | Jun-Sep 8-11am
Facebook.com/Getlocalazfarmersmarkets GetLocalArizonaEvents.com
Mommas Organic Market
Glendale Farmers Market at Cabela’s 9380 W Glendale Ave, Glendale, AZ 85305
Sundays Sep-May 10am-2pm | closed for summer Facebook.com/Getlocalazfarmersmarkets
GetLocalArizonaEvents.com
Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market
3806 N Brown Ave
Saturdays 8am-1pm
ArizonaCommunityFarmersMarkets.com
Power Road Farmers Market
4011 S Power Rd, Mesa
Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm | Sunday 9am-4pm PowerrdFarmersMarket.com
Roadrunner Park Farmers Market
3502 E Cactus Rd, Phoenix
Saturdays Oct-May 8am-1pm | Jun-Sep 7-11am
Facebook.com/RoadrunnerParkFarmersMarket
Singh Meadows Farmers Market
1490 E Weber Dr
Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays 8am-2pm Facebook.com/SinghFarms
Sun City Farmers Market 16820 N 99th Ave
Thursdays Oct-May 9am-1pm
Facebook.com/Sun-City-Farmers-Market631299790224049
The Capitol Farmers Market
1700 Adams St, Phoenix Thursdays 10:30am-1:30pm ArizonaCommunityFarmersMarkets.com
Uptown Farmers Market 5757 N Central Ave, Phoenix
Wednesdays Oct-Apr 9am-1pm & May-Jun 8am-noon
Saturdays Nov-Apr 9am-1pm & May-Oct 8am-noon UptownMarketAZ.com
Verrado Community Farmers Market N Market Pl & W Main St, Buckeye Sundays Oct-Jun 9am-1pm Facebook.com/VerradoCommunityFarmersMarket
NORTHERN ARIZONA
Farmers Market in Old Town Square 1042 N Main St, Cottonwood Wednesdays 4-8pm (check months/times throughout year)
Facebook.com/FarmersMarketatOldTownSquare
Flagstaff Community Farmers Market 211 W Aspen Ave, City Hall Parking Lot Sundays May-Oct 8am-noon FlagstaffMarket.com
Prescott Farmers Market
Dignity Health, YRMC 900 Iron Springs Rd, Miller Valley Lot Saturdays 7:30am-noon PrescottFarmersMarket.org
Sedona Community Farmers Market
Wells Fargo Bank Parking Lot 2201 W State Rte 89A, West Sedona Sundays May 14-Oct 15 8am-noon | Sundays Nov 5-Apr 28 11am-3pm Sedona-Farmers-Market.com
Verde Valley Farmers Market Hollamon St and Main St, Camp Verde Saturdays May-Oct 8-11am Facebook.com/VerdeValleyFarmersMarket
Windmill Park Farmers Market 9950 E Cornville Rd, Cornville Thursdays 2-6pm (check months/times throughout year)
Facebook.com/WindmillParkFarmersMarket
